In this episode of Clinically Awkward, join me, your. Favorite stressy messy AuDHD therapist, Alyssa Zimmerman as I sit down with Danielle Procope Bell, an Assistant Professor of Africana Studies at University of Tennessee and

expert in Black Feminism and Critical Autism Studies. Danielle shares her journey as a late-diagnosed autistic woman and her special interest in chess, diving into how it has shaped her personal and academic life. The conversation explores the intersectionality of race, gender, and neurodivergence, touching on family dynamics, cultural disparities in diagnosis, and the pressures of masking. Danielle provides valuable insights into how critical autism research can better include Black Autistic voices and the broader implications of creating an inclusive society. Tune in for an engaging, honest, and illuminating discussion that challenges existing paradigms and champions neurodivergent inclusivity.

00:52 Meet Danielle Procope Bell

05:06 Chess, Autism, and Pop Culture

09:31 Intersection of Autism and Black Feminism

21:14 Navigating Social and Racial Bias

31:35 Young Adulthood and Autistic Masking

38:23 Challenges of Adulthood and Parenthood

43:15 The Sims and Neurodivergent Reflections

47:17 Advice for Black Women Suspecting Autism

49:28 Critical Autism Research and Inclusivity

58:01 Concluding Thoughts and Contact Information