Autism on screen and in the workplace | Rebuilding a legendary 17th century tavern

Autism on screen and in the workplace | Rebuilding a legendary 17th century tavern

From Bridging Philly by Audacy

April 25, 2026 · 41 min

About this episode

The episode discusses autism representation in media and the workplace, featuring insights from Dr. Wendy Ross and Kelly Ryan, along with a historical segment on rebuilding a legendary tavern in Philadelphia.

Autism and neurodiversity are becoming better represented in media - like the HBO medical drama “The Pitt”, which features a neurodivergent character, Dr. Mel King. A Philadelphia doctor actually helped create that character and has made major contributions to autism research nationally and internationally. As we close out Autism Acceptance Month, Racquel Williams talks with Dr. Wendy Ross, director of Jefferson Health's Center for Autism and Neurodiversity , along with her student, Kelly Ryan. Together they discuss “The Pitt”, how autistic individuals can thrive in a real-life work environment, and how their medical school is helping to change the culture around autism from the ground up. Then, Shara Dae Howard visits the site of one of America’s first taverns in Philadelphia, where the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps got their start. The Tun was torn down centuries ago, but sailors and Marines still come to Philadelphia looking for it - so two veterans have decided to rebuild it for America’s 250th anniversary.

People in this episode

Host: Racquel Williams

Guests: Dr. Wendy Ross, Kelly Ryan

Topics covered

  • autism
  • neurodiversity
  • media representation
  • workplace inclusion
  • historical reconstruction

Keywords

  • autism
  • neurodiversity
  • The Pitt
  • work environment
  • Philadelphia tavern

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Jefferson Health

Books & works: The Pitt

Places: Philadelphia, Tun

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