Show notes
In this episode, Nicolas Comstock and Dr. Adam Hazlett explore neurodivergence and autism, debating whether autism is a superpower and the importance of parental support. They discuss balancing freedom and protection, caregiver neglect, employment challenges, and ADA regulations. The conversation covers the reclassification of autism by HHS, tokenism, community connections, financial challenges, and political policies on disability. They highlight the value of caregivers and conclude with advocacy, legislative efforts, fundraising, and future plans.
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Dr. Adam “Dutch” Hazlett is a renowned advocate for and expert in neurodiversity and inclusion,
whose work is enriched by a deep understanding of the humanities and the complexities of
human interaction. With two master’s degrees and a doctorate in humanities, along with
certifications in Disability Inclusion from the University of Michigan and Neurodiversity from
Florida State University, Dr. Hazlett combines academic insight with practical expertise in
equitable design and user experience. In 2025, he was named a Fulbright Specialist in
Education, honored for his international leadership in universal design and innovative
approaches to educating autistic learners.
Dr. Hazlett’s work focuses on helping institutions across sectors understand the importance of
accessibility, empathy, and equity, offering training that emphasizes neuro-inclusion and
micro-accommodations to foster more inclusive environments. He is also the creator and host of
NACHOS (Neuro-Affirming Conversation Hour for Outreach and Support), a widely shared
podcast and resource hub that explores neurodivergent life, self-care, and community through
affirming, research-based storytelling.
In addition to his role as a tenured professor of humanities at Henry Ford College in Dearborn,
Michigan, Dr. Hazlett actively contributes to disability advocacy. He serves as Director of Public
Relations for Self-Advocates of Michigan, a statewide organization affiliated with the Michigan
Developmental Disabilities Council, and is the founder and executive director of Humanities
101, an autistic-led charitable organization dedicated to empowering autistic individuals. Guided
by the motto “Normalize No Normal,” Humanities 101 embodies Dr. Hazlett’s commitment to
redefining “normal” and creating a world that embraces diverse ways of living and connecting.
His work continually challenges societal norms, advancing a vision for inclusive communities
that celebrate human diversity in all its forms.
LINKS:
Website: https://www.humanities101.org/
Email: Doc@humanities101.org
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(0:00) Introduction and announcements
(3:13) Introducing Dr. Adam Hazlett and his background
(6:13) Understanding neurodivergence and autism
(10:50) Autism: Superpower or not?
(17:24) The role of parental support in disability
(23:07) Exploring freedom and protection for disabled individuals
(27:40) Personal experiences of caregiver neglect
(30:25) Tackling employment challenges and vocational rehabilitation
(38:05) ADA regulations and their shortcomings
(40:15) Autism reclassification by HHS and its impacts
(47:10) Experiences of being a token member on boards
(54:02) Building connections within the disabled community
(55:33) Understanding behaviors in neurodivergent individuals
(57:21) Financial challenges for Social Security recipients
(59:20) Disability policies across political parties
(1:02:43) Recognizing the value of caregivers
(1:06:21) Kindness vs. Niceness in advocacy
(1:07:17) The need for Congressional awareness of disability issues
(1:11:59) Advocacy and legislative efforts
(1:15:02) Fundraising, book promotion, and podcast mission
(1:15:59) Guest appreciation and future episode hints
(1:16:14) Episode sign-off 
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