An episode that hits hard and stays in bounds!
In Episode 125 of The Autistic Culture Podcast, we explore the unexpected overlap between roller derby and autistic identity with guest Carina Taylor — a neurodivergent therapist and seasoned skater. From emotional regulation to alter egos, this episode dives into how the sport offers structure, expression, and community for autistic and neurodivergent individuals alike.
Here’s what we cover in today’s episode:
In this episode, Angela chats with Carina Taylor — a primary therapist at Foundations in Asheville, North Carolina and a roller derby extraordinaire — about the unique connections between roller derby and autism.
We dive into roller derby technique and clear up some common misconceptions (no, it’s not choreographed — and no, it’s not all about aggression). But it does bring out some big emotions and serious intensity.
Despite its rough-and-tumble reputation, roller derby is a highly organized sport with a detailed rule set and a strong emphasis on strategy and teamwork. It’s also one of the most gender-inclusive sports out there, creating space for athletes of all gender identities to participate, compete, and feel represented on the track.
Additionally, roller derby often involves adopting a persona or alter ego — a playful, empowering form of masking that allows skaters to fully step into a character and express parts of themselves that might not surface in everyday life.
Roller derby offers a powerful outlet for emotional expression, allowing skaters to channel complex feelings—like frustration, excitement, and vulnerability—into physical movement and team connection. The structure and creativity of the sport provide a safe, supportive space where emotions aren’t just allowed but embraced. For many, especially neurodivergent individuals, it becomes a form of regulation, empowerment, and authentic self-expression both on and off the track.
Carina Taylor's Bio
Carina (she/her) is a primary therapist at Foundations in Asheville, a young adult transition community located in the mountains of North Carolina. Originally from Pennsylvania, Carina completed her Bachelor’s in Sociology with minors in Psychology and Social Work at Bridgewater College in Virginia and her Master’s in Social Work at East Tennessee State University. As a Primary Therapist at Foundations, she provides therapy that focuses on values exploration, identity development, resilience expansion, and trauma-informed care including EMDR therapy. One of her biggest goals when working with students is to help them normalize what they are experiencing and why they are experiencing it, while moving through their experiences in a more resilient and settled state. In her free time, she enjoys being active, including roller derby!
Did you enjoy this episode? We talk about all things roller derby — from the rules and strategy to the emotional intensity it brings out in skaters. We also explore how this high-energy, gender-inclusive sport offers a powerful outlet for neurodivergent and autistic individuals to express themselves, connect with community, and even embrace a bold alter ego. Join the convo with #AutisticCultureCatch!
Special thanks to our friends at Shrub Oak International for making this episode happen. Shrub Oak offers a personalized, strength-based education on a serene 127-acre campus. Their transdisciplinary team collaborates to create individualized learning plans that honor each student's passions and needs. Beyond academics, they provide clinical services, life skills development, and a rich array of activities—from art and music to therapeutic horsemanship—all designed to your kid feeling actually happy—not just compliant.
If you're searching for a school that truly understands and nurtures autistic students, visit shruboak.org to learn more.
Resources:
Smokey Mountain Roller Derby - https://www.facebook.com/SmokyMountainRollerGirls/
Foundations Asheville -
https://foundationsasheville.com
Related Episodes:
Belly Dancing is Autistic
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