Episode 46: Autistic Grief, Co-Regulation, and the People Who Keep Us Human

<p>Matt and Erin are back for another mailbag episode — and this one gets deeply personal. From losing an “anchor person” to navigating autistic grief, relationships, PDA parenting, and co-regulation, this episode explores what happens when the people who help hold our world together are suddenly gone or overwhelmed. It’s vulnerable, funny, heartbreaking, and very, very autistic.</p><p>We cover:</p><ul><li><p>Why autistic grief can feel like losing your “internal compass” — not just a loved one</p></li><li><p>How partners, friends, and safe people often function as essential disability supports</p></li><li><p>The fear, disorientation, and loneliness that can come after losing an “anchor person”</p></li><li><p>Matt and Erin’s personal experiences with divorce, loss, burnout, and rebuilding stability</p></li><li><p>PDA parenting, “dueling gremlins,” and how co-regulation creates room for flexibility</p></li><li><p>Why autistic love is often rooted in safety, routine, and nervous system relief</p></li><li><p>Transformers, Doctor Who, fountains, art galaxies, chicken nuggets, and the sacred role of biscuits and gravy</p></li></ul><p>Also: the loneliest whale in the ocean, emotional support toast, “people…” as a replacement swear word, and Matt casually admitting he’d probably make a good spicy audiobook narrator.</p>