The Preamble Elyse Myers’ New Book and Harriet Tubman’s Faith
Feb 23, 2026
Taya Miles, historian and author focused on Black faith and freedom, and Elyse Myers, comedian, musician, and new memoirist. They trade funny personal tales and discuss neurodivergence, journaling, and finding community. Taya explores Harriet Tubman’s visions, faith-driven courage, and practical rescue tactics. The conversation mixes humor, healing, and historical resilience.
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Writing Became A Healing Tool During Crisis
- Elyse wrote much of her book while coping with her son's health crisis, using writing as a healing distraction.
- She began the book before pregnancy, paused for surgeries, then completed illustrations after her son Oliver's heart was fixed, making the book deeply personal.
Neurodivergence As An Operating System
- Elyse frames neurodivergence as an alternate operating system rather than a flaw, which changed her life once she accepted it.
- She taught herself visually and tactilely, discovered self-teaching was a strength, and redesigned her life to fit her brain rather than forcing conformity.
Gender Shapes How Neurodivergence Is Seen
- Elyse links women’s heightened shame around neurodivergence to societal expectations like being quiet and compliant, which masks symptoms.
- She notes recent increases in diagnosing neurodivergent women because earlier research focused on male presentations.
