Blindboy Embraces Autism Diagnosis, Thriving in Creative Pursuits

In a recent appearance on the Late Late Show, Blindboy, the renowned podcaster and author from Co. Limerick, shared that he has been "thriving" since receiving an autism diagnosis last year. Speaking candidly on the show, Blindboy revealed that his podcast listeners played a crucial role in leading him to seek an autism assessment.

"I was diagnosed with autism because... listeners to my podcast were listening every week, and autistic people were saying, ‘You sound pretty autistic man, you might want to get checked out,’" he explained.

Following the assessment, Blindboy acknowledged the novelty of discussing his autism diagnosis, noting that it represents a new understanding of his lifelong experiences. "It’s a strange thing to talk about because… it’s a new word for how I’ve been my whole life. And to be honest, I f*****g love it. It’s wonderful craic inside in my head, you know - I really have a tremendous time inside of my own head." I2 I2 I2 I2 I2 I2

Describing his autism as an enduring sense of curiosity, Blindboy shared his struggles pre-diagnosis, particularly in environments that didn't align with his needs, such as school and brief stints in call centers. However, he emphasized that he is now "thriving" in more creatively aligned roles, having a better understanding of environments that suit him.

"Now, my job is to write books, I'm a thriving person… I still have childhood curiosity and I love it, it’s great craic… I’m thriving because of the environment that I'm in is... I pursue creativity all the time and I adore it and love it and I wouldn't change it for a second," he expressed.

Despite thriving in creative pursuits, Blindboy highlighted the challenges he faces in social situations, particularly when frequent small talk is involved. "It's not that I can't do it - it's that it's kind of exhausting for me."

Wearing his signature plastic bag to conceal his identity, Blindboy also discussed various topics during the show, including his latest collection of short stories, Topographia Hibernica, and his experiences with the local council, a friendly otter, and reflections on being labeled "young" as he approaches 40.