Episode 316-Finding My Autism at 44: A Late Diagnosis Journey with Professor Jason Ybarra

Send us a text What does it mean to discover your autism at age 44? Dr. Jason Ybarra takes us on a profound journey of self-discovery that began when he noticed he could understand his autistic students in ways others couldn"t. "This feels like a cozy sweater," he recalls thinking, as pieces of his own identity puzzle started falling into place. The revelation transformed Dr. Ybarra"s understanding of his past. Those childhood hours spent alone with art and Legos, the social exhaustion misdiagnosed as depression, the academic paradox of excelling in math while struggling with writing—suddenly made sense through a neurodivergent lens. His conversation with his mother after diagnosis brought new clarity to both of them, strengthening their bond as they reframed puzzling childhood moments. Now as a university professor and planetarium director, Dr. Ybarra channels his lived experience into creating more accessible spaces for neurodivergent students. He"s implementing autism training for staff, revising instructional materials for clarity, and mentoring students who share his neurotype. Most powerfully, he"s identifying unique talents in autistic students and creating research opportunities tailored to their abilities—like partnering with a calligraphy-skilled student on a historical astronomy project. "When you embrace neurodiversity, that benefits everyone," Dr. Ybarra explains, highlighting how accommodations designed for neurodivergent minds often improve experiences for all. His work demonstrates that understanding the autistic experience isn"t just about helping those on the spectrum—it"s about creating a world where different ways of thinking are recognized as valuable, where clear communication replaces unspoken expectations, and where everyone has the opportunity to contribute their unique gifts. Ready to explore more about autism, neurodiversity, and creating inclusive environments? Connect with Dr. Ybarra or reach out to autism advocacy networks that can guide you toward resources and community support. Support the show