#NotANerd: Always Keep Your Backpack on Your Back (cultural misunderstanding? or attempted kidnapping?)

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ABOUT SPECIAL INTEREST
AUTISM PRESS
SYNESTHESIA POPULAR
UNBELIEVABLY TRUE FAQ VIRAL SYNESTHESIA SERIES

TNTM® is an intimate and intelligent perspective on what it is like being diagnosed with Autism and Synesthesia late in life.
All Rights Reserved by: Jen Friel

MORE INFO: My journey began with late-in-life diagnoses of Autism and Synesthesia—two transformative revelations that reshaped not just how I see the world, but how I want to share it. Behind every article, podcast, workshop, and conversation lies a lived experience: the wonder of tasting colors, the puzzle of unwritten social rules, the quiet victories of self-discovery, and the small heartbreaks of feeling different. I write to bring those that underrepresented voice to the table: the folks who’ve always felt a little offbeat, the sensory wizards who see/hear/feel life in vibrant crossover—this is our place. But it’s not just about me. I’m deeply fascinated by the ways people communicate—by the subtle cues of body language, the rich textures of non-verbal expression, and the underlying psychology that shapes intention and perception. Through this lens, I explore everything from media representation and sensory storytelling to friendship, relationships, and the art of being unapologetically yourself.

Whether you’re a curious neurotypical ally, a fellow late-diagnosed explorer, or someone seeking fresh insight on how we all connect—this is your front-row seat. Expect thoughtful essays, practical guides, reflective interviews, creative storytelling, and occasional humor. Pull up a virtual chair, and if something resonates—please message so I can share your story too. <3