Episode 284: Finding Magic in Neurodiversity and Vice Versa

Emily Kircher-Morris welcomes Cody Clark, a magician and autistic self-advocate, to talk about Cody's unique approach to blending storytelling and sleight of hand to offer audiences a more authentic perspective on autism. They discuss Cody's personal experiences as a kid, before he understood his autism diagnosis, and how the diagnosis shaped his life. They talk about the importance of embracing special interests, as Cody did for his journey into magic, and the effect of advocacy work for disability inclusion and self-employment for autistic people.

TAKEAWAYS

  • Magic and storytelling can help reveal an authentic autistic perspective.

  • The power of special interests shapes one's journey.

  • Understanding an autism diagnosis can be life-changing.

  • Advocacy for disability inclusion is crucial.

  • Self-employment is a viable path for autistic people.

  • Magic can be a form of self-advocacy.

Join us for our free event, Creating Neurodiversity-Affirming Schools, a learning and continuing education opportunity. The event will feature a presentation by Emily Kircher-Morris and Amanda Morin, and you'll hear from a panel of experts about the future of education. Register now!

Check out a couple of tricks from Cody the Magician.

Look, it's Cosmo the puppy, the newest addition to Emily and Dave's family!

Check out the Neurodiversity University courses we talked about in today’s episode.

Cody Clark is a professional magician and autistic self-advocate based in Louisville, KY, who uses storytelling and sleight of hand to shift perceptions of autism. Through his performances and talks, Cody shares how being autistic shapes the way he experiences the world, helping audiences—from students to educators to corporate teams—recognize that autistic individuals have the same hopes, dreams, and capacity for connection as anyone else.

Cody has performed and spoken for a wide range of clients, including the University of Kentucky, Ohio State University, Energizer Batteries, Domino’s Pizza, and the Delta Faucet Company. He has even testified before the U.S. House of Representatives Small Business Committee as a voice for disability inclusion.

BACKGROUND READING

Cody’s website, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter/X, YouTube, TikTok

The Neurodiversity Podcast is on Facebook, Instagram, BlueSky, and you’re invited to join our Facebook Group.

Autism, Creativity, NeurodiversityDave Morriscodyclarkmagic, cody clark, magic, autism, neurodiversity, special interests