How to Know If You Have Autism | AJ Wilkerson

TL;DR

An inspiring discussion about the experiences of an autistic stand-up comedian navigating life and comedy.

Transcript

thanks for coming on aj wilkerson thanks i appreciate you doing this what's up absolutely guys thanks for having me this is absolutely [ __ ] oh yeah man your your van is super dope i love it my van is a [ __ ] box on wheels uh but i love it it's my [ __ ] box hell yeah everybody needs their own [ __ ] box man so uh what's your story for people who... Read More

Key Insights

• 💝 Late diagnoses of autism are becoming more common, revealing the complexity of the spectrum.
• 🛟 Comedy serves as both a creative outlet and therapeutic avenue for autistic individuals.
• ❓ There are significant challenges in communication for many on the spectrum, impacting social interactions.
• 🫒 Living on the road in a van can provide unique experiences and material for comedians.
• ❓ Crowdfunding can offer unexpected support and community engagement for artistic endeavors.
• 🫷 Personal growth often comes through navigating uncomfortable situations and pushing boundaries.
• 🧑‍⚕️ Therapy can be instrumental in helping individuals understand and manage their mental health.

Questions & Answers

Q: How did your diagnosis inspire you to pursue stand-up comedy?

My diagnosis at age 30, combined with getting a medical marijuana prescription, helped me manage my anxiety. I always loved comedy but never thought I could perform. Once I realized my struggles stemmed from autism, I was encouraged to try stand-up, and the first laugh I got made everything click for me.

Q: Can you explain the concept of masking in relation to autism?

Masking refers to the coping strategies autistic individuals often develop to blend in with neurotypical peers. I learned to camouflage my traits to fit in socially, leading to mental exhaustion from constantly pretending to be someone I'm not. This coping mechanism often goes unnoticed yet causes significant stress.

Q: What are some of the difficulties you face while performing?

I struggle with communication, often overthinking my responses during conversations and missing cues from audiences. On stage, however, I’ve learned to navigate this and connect with my audience, flipping my anxiety into an engaging performance. It’s about mastering the awkwardness and channeling that energy effectively.

Q: How does being on the road in a van affect your comedy journey?

Living in a van allows me the freedom to travel for shows and meet fellow comedians. It enhances my social skills and offers unique material from the varied encounters I experience. It gives me a sense of independence while being a real-life adventure, contributing significantly to my comedic perspective.

Q: What motivated you to start a crowdfunding campaign for your new van?

The old van was falling apart, with leaks and other issues, making it challenging to maintain a sustainable life on the road. I was frustrated and shared my story, which led to unexpected support. Since then, I’ve raised funds to purchase a more reliable and comfortable van for my comedy journey.

Q: How important is therapy in your life post-diagnosis?

Therapy has been instrumental in helping me understand myself and my challenges. It’s given me tools to manage executive function difficulties, like setting alarms that require mental engagement to dismiss. It's not just about therapy but about learning to cope and thrive as a comedian and an individual.

Q: What advice would you give someone hesitant about trying stand-up?

I would tell them that everyone starts somewhere, and it’s normal to feel nervous. It’s important to remember that if you love something, pursuing it can lead to growth. Open mics are a low-stakes way to experiment and find your voice. Just go for it—you might surprise yourself.

Q: How do you incorporate your life experiences into your comedy?

My autism gives me a unique lens on everyday situations, fueling my material with authenticity. I talk about my struggles, observations, and the humor I find in it all. By weaving my story into my performances, I create relatable content while sharing a perspective that resonates with others facing similar challenges.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• The comedian shares his story of starting stand-up after being diagnosed with autism at age 30, using humor to cope with challenges.

• He discusses the unique traits of autism, including heightened anxiety and communication difficulties, and how these have shaped his comedy style.

• The conversation explores the importance of social interactions, therapy, and the therapeutic nature of stand-up comedy as a means of personal growth.