Not Your Average Runner: Taking Autism and Running with It
Host: Jill Angie
Listen Now: https://notyouraveragerunner.com/260
This week, I’m introducing you to a very special guest. This person helped me write three books. I mean they literally would not exist without her. So, if you love my books, you’re going to love this episode.
Angela Lauria is a book coach. She is the CEO of the Author Incubator, a good friend of mine, and we have a bunch in common. For years, Angela and I have talked about our weight-loss journeys, she identifies as fat, she’s a triathlete, but most recently, she’s been opening up about her autism diagnosis, and how it’s impacted her life and her athletic training, so we’re diving into all of it today.
Since receiving her diagnosis, Angela has been on a real journey with exercise, thought work, and life in general. Tune in this week to discover how Angela has processed her neurodiversity, and why she believes understanding her neuropathy has allowed her to become a better exerciser. We’re also discussing the work Angela has done in understanding who she is, how to show up authentically, and how to use a diagnosis like this to be gentler with yourself, whatever you’re trying to achieve.
If you enjoyed this episode, you have got to check out Up and Running. It’s my 30-day online program that will teach you how to start running, stick with it, and become the runner you’ve always wanted to be. Click here to join and I can’t wait to see you there!
What You’ll Learn From This Episode:
The difficulties Angela was experiencing in the years before she was diagnosed with autism.
How Angela has been able to think about her diagnosis in a new way, creating a safe space to be more open about it.
The comparisons that can be found between the diet industry and Angela’s first experiences with autism therapy.
What you need to know about the language surrounding modern autism diagnoses and outdated terminology.
Why Angela places importance on celebrating the differences between people instead of trying to “normalize” everything.
How autism has impacted Angela’s experience of working out in groups with other people, sweating, loud noises, and all the things you encounter in a gym setting.
Where thought work helped Angela, where she ended up gaslighting herself with thought work, and why understanding your neurology is vital when doing though work.
How showing up authentically with her autism has allowed Angela to enjoy exercise in ways she never thought she could.
