Why do we still use the term Asperger’s Syndrome? Because words carry stories, and for thousands of families, it was the first word that brought understanding, even if its history is dark.
In this deeply personal episode, Dr. Marshack shares how her own dog, Kokomo, opened a dialogue about inherited history and terminology. She discovered the town of Kokomo’s painful past (and her own grandfather’s complex history), forcing her to choose between erasing the name or reconciling with its shadow.
This story shows that awareness, not erasure, is the path to compassion. Learn how Radiant Empathy asks us to see beyond the label, accepting that names are living things that carry both shadow and light.
Want to skip ahead? Episode Highlights
[00:43] What’s in a Name? From Asperger to Kokomo
[01:14] The perfect name for a beach dog
[02:01] The NPR story: Kokomo’s history with the KKK
[02:37] The grandfather’s connection and courage to walk away
[03:20] Reconciling the name: Awareness, not erasure, is the path
[03:42] The parallel with Asperger’s Syndrome
[04:09] Radiant Empathy asks us to see beyond the label
[04:31] Closing and After Party invitation
Future of Healing: Dr. Kathy is developing two innovative video games: Radiant Empathy: A Journey of Heartbreak and Healing and The University of NeuroDiversity: Radiant Empathy Campus.
Check out Dr. Kathy’s latest book, “Life with a Partner or Spouse with Asperger Syndrome (ASD): Going over the Edge? Anniversary Edition”
➡️ Follow Dr. Kathy on Facebook
