Behind the Mask: Separating Ourselves from the Facade

Episode 4 – Behind the Mask: Separating Myself from the Facade

For many autistic people, masking becomes a survival strategy—something we do to fit in, avoid judgment, or stay safe. But over time, that mask can become so deeply ingrained that we lose track of who we really are underneath.

In this episode, we explore the experience of autistic masking: what it looks like, how it develops, and the emotional toll it takes. We open up about our own histories with masking, the burnout it caused, and the difficult but freeing process of unmasking—of figuring out what was the act… and what was us all along.

Whether you’re late-diagnosed, currently questioning, or supporting someone on this journey, this episode offers an honest and compassionate look at the often invisible burden of masking—and the power of finally letting it go.

 

Show Notes

18:38 Unmasking Autism: Discovering the New Faces of Neurodiversity  by:Devon Price PhD

https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/688819/unmasking-autism-by-devon-price-phd/

37:15 The Autistic’s Guide to Self-Discovery : Flourishing as a Neurodivergent Adult by: Sol Smith

https://newworldlibrary.com/product/the-autistics-guide-to-self-discovery

References

National Autistic Society. (2025, May 1). Masking. Retrieved from Autism.org.uk: https://www.autism.org.uk/advice-and-guidance/topics/behaviour/masking

 

Credits

 

Executive Producer: Keith Holloway

Co-Executive Producer: Bridget Holloway

Hosts: Keith and Bridget Holloway

Produced & Edited by: Keith Holloway

Theme Music: "Paradise Found" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com) licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/

Logo Design: Nathan McConnell (Growing up Autie) https://www.facebook.com/growingupautie

A Dispatch Central Production © 2025

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Editing and Production Software:  PowerDirecteor 365 https://www.cyberlink.com/products/po...

Audio Recording and Editing Software: Audacity https://www.audacityteam.org/

Disclaimers

This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Please consult a qualified healthcare provider for diagnosis or treatment of autism or any related condition. The views and experiences shared here are personal and may not reflect those of everyone on the autism spectrum. Autism is a broad and diverse spectrum, and each individual's journey is unique. Some episodes may contain discussions of mental health, trauma, or other sensitive topics. Listener discretion is advised. We aim to create a respectful, inclusive space for autistic individuals, their families, professionals, and allies. If we ever get it wrong, we welcome thoughtful feedback. This podcast may feature sponsored content or affiliate links, which will be disclosed during the episode.