Hosts Julianna Scott and Kelley Jensen address listener feedback on the title of their episode on siblings, clarifying their intention wasn't to pit neurotypical against neurodivergent siblings, but rather show all siblings united against the challenges neurodivergence can bring to family dynamics. They discuss their recent op-ed about RFK Jr.'s autism statements, emphasizing support for productive autism advocacy while rejecting debunked vaccine theories. The conversation covers the need for standardized diagnostics, better services for severely autistic individuals, and the importance of keeping all autism levels visible in media representation. Julianna reviews the PBS show "Patience" featuring an autistic actress, and Kelley introduces the concept of "virtual autism"—screen-induced autism-like symptoms in neurotypical children under three.

Key Takeaways:

• Siblings want platforms to share their experiences living with autism.
• Vaccines don't cause autism—this is settled science.
• Standardized diagnostics need improvement.
• Severely autistic individuals are fighting for services they shouldn't have to fight for.
• Media representation often focuses on high-functioning autism, overlooking severe cases.
• "Virtual autism" describes screen-induced autism-like symptoms in young children.
• Quality autism diagnosis needs more clinical involvement and funding.
• Autism advocacy requires focusing on productive solutions over debunked theories.

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