Adin Boyer - American Idol, autism and anti-bullying advocacy

Adin Boyer - American Idol, autism and anti-bullying advocacy

Author: Carolyn Kiel January 27, 2025 Duration: 44:02

Diagnosed with autism at age 2, Adin Boyer grew up struggling with being bullied, making friends and accepting himself. He finally began to flourish while attending a performing arts middle and high school, when he faced less bullying and leaned into his musical talent and training in classical piano, choir, opera and music theory.

Adin gained widespread international notoriety as a contestant on season 21 of American Idol, where he advanced to the top 55. Now Adin performs locally and on tour, with solo and full-band indie rock performances, and speaks to audiences about autism acceptance, neurodiversity affirmation and anti-bullying advocacy. 

During this episode, Adin talks about:

  • His multi-year struggle to accept himself after being told about his autism diagnosis at age 12 
  • Being bullied and misunderstood in elementary school, and how attending a performing arts middle and high school helped his personal growth and friendships
  • Getting involved in music at a very young age and how his biggest musical inspiration (Coldplay) shaped his songwriting
  • Being cast for American Idol and how his unique experience on the show influenced him as a performer and advocate
  • The system he developed to manage his energy and routine when he is on tour
  • How his anti-bullying talks resonate with kids across the United States

(Note: During this episode we use person-first language like "has autism" and "on the spectrum" when discussing Adin's experience, because this is how Adin prefers to describe himself.)

Learn more about Adin, his music and his autism advocacy on his website AdinBoyer.com, on Instagram @adinboyer, on his BandsInTown profile for his upcoming shows performances, and by email: adinboyer [at] gmail.com.

Watch the video of this interview on YouTube.

Read the episode transcript.

Follow the Beyond 6 Seconds podcast in your favorite podcast player.

Subscribe to the FREE Beyond 6 Seconds newsletter for early access to new episodes.

Support or sponsor this podcast at BuyMeACoffee.com/Beyond6Seconds!

*Disclaimer: The views, guidance, opinions, and thoughts expressed in Beyond 6 Seconds episodes are solely mine and/or those of my guests, and do not necessarily represent those of my employer or other organizations. These episodes are for informational purposes only and do not substitute for professional medical advice. Consult a medical professional or healthcare provider if you are seeking medical advice, diagnoses, or treatment.*


Hosted by Carolyn Kiel, Beyond 6 Seconds: Neurodiversity stories from neurodivergent people moves past the snap judgments that so often define how neurodivergent people are perceived. Each conversation here is an invitation to listen deeply, exploring the nuanced realities of entrepreneurs, artists, advocates, and other neurodivergent individuals as they share their own experiences in their own words. You’ll hear personal accounts that challenge stereotypes, not through abstract arguments, but through the vivid details of lived experience-the unique pathways to creativity, the challenges navigated in work and relationships, and the personal definitions of success and well-being. This podcast creates a space where identity is explored with authenticity, highlighting the strengths and perspectives that arise from thinking differently. Tuning in means connecting with stories that are as diverse and dynamic as the neurodivergent community itself, offering genuine insight into mental health, societal norms, and the richness of human cognition. Carolyn guides these discussions with a focus on depth and connection, ensuring every episode goes far beneath the surface to celebrate the vibrance of neurodiversity.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

Beyond 6 Seconds: Neurodiversity stories from neurodivergent people
Podcast Episodes
Autistic-led autism research - with Dr. Kana Grace [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 29:17
Dr. Kana Grace is a research psychologist, advocate, Specialist Mentor, and educator, specializing in the mental and physical health of neurodivergent people. Currently, Kana is an Honorary Research Fellow at the Centre…
Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD) - with Patti Kasper [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 39:26
CW: Mentions of suicide and experiences with the criminal justice system as it relates to FASD. Patti Kasper is a Neurobehavioral Coach and Trainer who provides staff development training and coaching services to support…
Working in the creative industry with Tourette's – with Ian Otto [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 36:53
Ian Otto is a Senior Producer with experience in animation, motion design, immersive, visual effects (VFX) and post production. After working in Berlin for many years, Ian now lives in Copenhagen, Denmark, where he is Se…
South Asian Mental Health Stories – with Mrinal Gokhale [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 18:51
Mrinal Gokhale is an author, speaker and creative consultant based in Wisconsin. She has collaborated with organizations and media outlets such as Brown Girl Magazine, ADDitude Magazine, Medical College of Wisconsin, and…
Dissociative Identity Disorder – with Crystals Multifaceted [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 47:21
CW: Mentions of suicidality Crystals Multifaceted is the founder of Multifaceted Journeys, where they use their lived experience of Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID) / plurality and healing with complex trauma and dis…
Autistic and Black – with Kala Allen Omeiza [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 15:33
Kala Allen Omeiza is a prolific author at the intersection of race, culture, and autism. Her latest book, "Autistic and Black: Our Experiences of Growth, Progress, and Empowerment," has received widespread acclaim for it…
Working in tech as a Black autistic woman – with Martina Kuzenski [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 44:00
Martina Kuzenski is a late-diagnosed autistic woman who received her autism diagnosis at age 28 near the end of her Master's degree program. She is an IT Specialist for the U.S. federal government. She shares her experie…
Hiring people with Down syndrome - with Joshua Hoskins [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 16:03
Joshua Hoskins is a 25 year old man with Down syndrome who lives in Tamworth, England with his parents. He loves his family and friends, and his hobbies are horse riding, boxing, musicals, supporting Newcastle United Foo…