Late-Diagnosed Autistic Author: Writing Success & Routines | JD Barker ​

Struggling with routines, self-doubt, or turning your creative passions into a real career as a late-diagnosed autistic or AuDHD adult? This episode of Adulting With Autism features JD Barker, a New York Times bestselling thriller author with 19 books to his name, co-writing credits with James Patterson, and a late autism diagnosis at 22.​

JD shares his journey from finance to full-time writing in his 40s, including ghostwriting multiple NYT bestsellers before building his own career and imprint. He talks about realistic writing routines (like aiming for 2–3K words a day and then shutting down work at a set time), how he structures his days to protect his focus, and how he uses autistic strengths such as pattern-spotting and deep focus to build complex plots.​

You will hear practical details on co-writing (splitting strengths and tasks), creating believable characters (using sketches and “actor” benchmarks to make them feel real), and reframing feedback—seeing reviews and early drafts as part of finding your voice rather than proof you should quit. JD also offers encouragement for autistic and ADHD creatives who worry they are “too late” or “too inconsistent” to ever finish a project.​

This episode is especially helpful if you:

• Are a late-diagnosed autistic or AuDHD creator trying to build a sustainable routine
• Dream of writing novels or long-form work but feel stuck or overwhelmed
• Want concrete examples of how an autistic author structures work, rest, and creativity

If this conversation supports you, follow/subscribe to Adulting With Autism on Podbean, Apple, or Spotify and leave a 5-star review so more neurodivergent adults can find it.

Merch for your writing journey: Get 20% off journals, notebooks, and “Storyteller’s Edge”–style merch with code PODCAST26 at the Adulting With Autism Fourthwall shop (Linktree). Your support helps keep this podcast free for the community.

Resources mentioned:

• JD Barker’s books and updates at jdbarker.com