Episode #222: Late Diagnosis of Autism to New York Times Best-Selling Author with J.D. Barker

JD Barker, New York Times bestselling author, was diagnosed with autism at 22—a late discovery that brought long-overdue clarity to challenges he’d faced since childhood. Early in his career, a stint in anger management led a counselor to suggest autism, prompting JD to begin therapy. There, he worked on basics like making eye contact and organizing his thoughts—skills that helped him better navigate both personal life and the demands of his writing career.

He began as a ghostwriter and book doctor, eventually becoming a bestselling author in his own right. JD credits autism for giving him a unique mental edge—he can juggle eight books at once, all meticulously organized in his head. While public speaking remains a challenge—he once went two years without speaking to anyone—he now co-hosts Writers Inc., a podcast where he interviews fellow authors about their creative journeys.

As a therapist who works to make learners successful across the lifespan, it’s interesting and encouraging to hear from autistic adults. You can find more about JD at his website or follow him @JDBarker on all social media.

#autism #speechtherapy

Today’s Guest:

J.D. Barker is the New York Times and international best-selling author of numerous novels, including DRACUL and the wildly popular 4MK series. He is currently collaborating with James Patterson. His books have been translated into two dozen languages, sold in more than 150 countries, and optioned for both film and television. Barker resides in coastal New Hampshire with his wife, Dayna, and their daughter Ember.

What’s Inside:

• The impact of a late autism diagnosis.
• How autism-related skills positively impact JDs career.
• Working through social skills as an autistic adult.

Mentioned In This Episode

• J.D. Barker
• Membership – ABA Speech  
• ABA Speech: Home

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