• The Slot Machine in Your Pocket

    The bells ring first—sharp, bright, demanding. Then the cascade: coins clattering down the steel catch, spilling into the tray with that unmistakable cha-ching. People turn their heads. For a moment, you’re the center of the room. The one who just hit. The one everyone wants to be. That rush? It isn’t limited to casinos in…

  • The Myth of the Autistic Flock

    by Oddly Robbie I had a moment recently in Inner Worlds (a very good VR platform for people who wish to just talk about life challenges) that left me a little steamed. A well-meaning moderator—sweet tone, bless her—wrapped up her shift by inviting me to the autism group. Nice idea. Bad fit. I tried, gently,…

  • Keeping Oddly Robbie

    The show must go on.

  • A Global Crossroads: Learning from History to Shape a Just Future

    Intro: When History Starts to Rhyme History has a way of whispering warnings before it shouts. Right now, across the world—from Germany to the U.S., Argentina to Hungary—we’re seeing familiar patterns emerge. Far-right movements are creeping back into power, rewriting history, scapegoating the vulnerable, and treating democracy like a suggestion rather than a foundation. If…

  • Extra, Extra! Read All About It! (But Only If You Want To)

    There was a time when news traveled by word of mouth, shouted from street corners. Then came newspapers, radio, and TV. Now, breaking news follows us everywhere—flashing across our phones, blaring in waiting rooms, creeping into conversations whether we ask for it or not. Yes, being informed is important. But at what cost to our…

  • Blog Story: Kathy’s Journey – A Light in the Shadows

    Disclaimer: This is a fictional narrative inspired by real-world challenges to foster empathy and understanding. Ricks College, Rexburg, Idaho, 1983 Kathy sat in the sterile office of the campus doctor, her hands gripping her husband’s for comfort. Married for a year and glowing with the optimism of young love, they had eagerly begun planning for…

  • The Grenade That Changed Everything: An Oddly Robbie Reflection

    Trigger Warning: Mentions of explosions, loud noises, and military training stress. It began with the grenade—a paradoxical object of destruction cradled like a fragile artifact. In the line of trainees, fear hung as heavy as the explosives in our hands. Speaking was forbidden, but even if it weren’t, the tension stole words from our throats.…

  • Rising Above the Noise: We Are Not Alone

    Hello, dear readers. If you’re reading this, chances are you’ve felt it, too. That rising pressure in the air. The noise that comes not just from the headlines, but from the glances, the muttered words, the silences where there should be kindness. The world feels heavier, louder, sharper than it did before. And for many…

  • Nap Time, Reclaimed: Embracing Our Natural Sleep Rhythms in an Automated World

    Remember nap time when we were kids? We’d fight it, but there we were, tucked in for that midday rest. Funny how, as adults, we’re told to power through the day without that little slice of rest—almost as if sleep were only for the young. But here’s the thing: the concept of a midday rest…

  • The Thin Line Between Home and Homelessness: My Journey and the Fight for Housing Security

    The warmth of a home is something many of us take for granted. But for those of us who have faced the cold nights in a van, the reality is much harsher. Housing insecurity is not just about losing a roof over your head; it’s about losing the stability, safety, and dignity that come with…

  • Experiencing the World’s Cultural Diversity: My Journey Through Contrasting Cultures

    Hey, OddlyRobbie here! Traveling has given me more than just a bunch of stamps in my passport; it’s provided a front-row seat to the grand theater of global culture. From the disciplined dance of life in Japan to the passionate tango of Argentina, and from the cool, egalitarian vibe of Sweden to the deeply traditional…

  • A Personal Reflection on Guns and Safety

    A Childhood Memory I remember the time when my little brother discovered a small gun, a Ruger, in our parents’ sock drawer in our small Montana town. He picked it up and showed it to me, and when Dad found out, he was very upset—it was loaded. This incident highlighted the ever-present danger of firearms…

  • The Light Within: A Tale of Revelation and Acceptance

    In the dim glow of a cozy, intimate room, a young man named Alex sat nervously beside his boyfriend, Max. The soft hum of the city outside created a distant lullaby, but inside, Alex’s heart raced like a drum. Tonight was the night he had chosen to reveal his deepest secret to Max, a truth…

  • Plan for Addressing Mass Incarceration: A Vision from Oddly Robbie

    ⚠️Content Warning: This post contains descriptions of violence and abuse within the prison system. It is intended for mature audiences only. Introduction: Hi, I’m Oddly Robbie, known for my work in VR, AR, and 3D design. Today, I want to share my vision for transforming the criminal justice system. Having spent almost seven years in…

  • Navigating My Journey from Suppression to Self-Expression: A Pride Reflection

    As we enter Pride Month, the streets come alive with vibrant floats, flags, and even the quest for biodegradable glitter. Yet, for many of us, Pride is more than a celebration; it’s a testament to resilience, a journey from suppression to self-expression. Early Years: The Weight of Cultural Suppression Growing up, my cultural background imposed…

  • Embracing Neurodiversity

    By Oddly Robbie My perspective as an autistic individual brings a unique lens to the discussion of rituals. For some of us, the world’s customs can be overwhelming, even painful. The sensory overload of a crowded celebration or the forced small talk of a formal dinner can be truly distressing. But this neurodivergent viewpoint is…

  • As Oddly Robbie, I carry the worries of my ancestors, but I also have the strength to fight for them and for the future. In these times of conflict, I choose to fight peacefully for peace.

    I feel deep sadness for the suffering caused by war, and I firmly believe that talking and understanding can lead to a better world. I speak out not with anger, but with love for humanity and a desire for a peaceful life. May our voices, no matter how small, rise above the noise of conflict…

  • When “Normal” Isn’t Working: Rethinking How We View Autism

    Hello OddlyRobbie readers, Scrolling through the news, I stumbled upon an article in Newsweek about new research on autism. I didn’t get past the paywall, but the premise was enough to stir my thoughts. It’s disheartening to see so much effort and funding dedicated to making us fit a “normal” that doesn’t even consider our…

  • Unlocking Progress: Rethinking Patent Laws for a Sustainable Future

    Hello, digital navigators and pioneers of change! OddlyRobbie here, stepping into the arena of intellectual rights with a twist only we can explore. Did you know that the melody that rings out at every birthday bash was once bound by copyright chains? Let’s unravel the complex world of patents—meant to foster innovation but perhaps, also…

  • Cultural Carousel: My Global Jaunt

    Ah, the green Montanan turned Mormon missionary! Who would’ve guessed that jetting off to Japan would throw me onto a relentless cultural treadmill? There, my Japanese companion, a model of military discipline, set a grueling pace. Exhausted yet determined, I had no choice but to dive into the deep end of unfamiliar languages and customs.…

  • Breakthroughs on the Horizon: Embracing a Brighter Future

    Hello, dear readers! OddlyRobbie here, buzzing with excitement as I share some groundbreaking advances that are reshaping our world. From harnessing the gentle glow of moonlight to fuel solar collectors to the rumble of hydrogen-powered semi-trucks on our highways, the future is not just knocking; it’s here with a bang! Moonlight Magic: Super Solar Collectors…

  • What If Capybaras Ruled the Universe?” A Whimsical Dive into a Peaceful Realm

    Hey there, OddlyRobbie enthusiasts! Have you ever pondered a universe where the chill vibes of capybaras set the tone for our cosmic existence? Imagine a world where the serene and laid-back nature of these adorable creatures influenced every nook and cranny of the universe. Let’s embark on a quirky exploration of this capybara-ruled utopia, where…

  • When the Universe Seems to Have a Quirky Sense of Humor

    Hey there, OddlyRobbie fans! 🌟 Have you ever had one of those days where it feels like the universe is playing a cosmic joke on you? Yeah, me too. It’s like you’re the star of a quirky sitcom, but no one gave you the script. 📜✨ Scene One: The Universe Throws a Curveball🌌 Picture this:…

  • Dancing Out of Control: AI Perspectives on Breaking Free

    Hello, Oddly Robbie readers! Today, I’m taking a slightly different turn. Let’s talk about control – not just the kind we encounter in our daily lives, but the broader, more pervasive forms that shape our society. And what better way to start this conversation than with a little story from the dance floor? Recently, while…

  • Búsquedas en Candyland y Charlas de Tango: La Aventura en VR de Oddly Robbie”

    Búsquedas en Candyland y Charlas de Tango: La Aventura en VR de Oddly Robbie”

    “Imagínate entrando en un mundo donde los campos no son solo verdes, sino un caleidoscopio de colores de Candyland. Ahí me encuentro, con el casco de VR bien ajustado, guiando a mi ahijado a través de un campo de mini golf que es más fantasía que realidad. Mientras navegamos por este caprichoso país de las…

  • Gaming with Purpose: A New Frontier

    Hey fellow gamers, As someone who’s navigated the worlds of both military service and virtual reality, I’ve often found myself pondering the ‘whys’ behind our gaming choices. We’re in an age where our virtual experiences can be more than just an adrenaline rush; they can be gateways to learning, empathy, and profound human connections. As…

  • Robots, Recovery, and Radical Compassion: A New Dawn in Addiction Treatment

    The Problem: An Unforgiving Reality We’re living in an era where the cries of addiction echo louder than ever. Whether it’s the unnerving laughter heard in the middle of the night or the alarming scenes witnessed in public transportation, it’s apparent: we are in a crisis. And while our healthcare professionals are doing their best,…

  • Beyond The Noise: A Call for Empathy and Innovation

    In a world roaring with opinions, the cacophony often drowns the whispers of empathy and the cries for change. As an autistic individual, my perception sifts through the social media ruckus, landing on the core issues that seem to be enveloped in a haze of indifference by those in positions to usher change. A Medical…

  • How Curiosity and AI Continue to Expand My Horizons

    Curiosity is often pegged as a childlike wonder, yet it is the cornerstone of continuous growth and transformative experiences. My journey with Artificial Intelligence (AI) exemplifies this, morphing from mere intrigue to a profound agent of change in my life. The Enduring Power of Curiosity Growing up in Montana, my fascination with technology was ignited…

  • SOUND Tech: This Game-Changer Might Help You Too

    I’m not one to push products, but I have to talk about Apple’s new AirPod Pro 2—a game-changing experience that’s worth sharing. If you struggle with distractions or attention issues, this could be a game-changer for you too. The Classroom vs. Home In traditional classrooms, my grades aren’t the best. Contrast that with online learning…

  • Embracing the Beast Within: How Understanding Our Primal Instincts Can Lead to a More Compassionate World

    Introduction: The Catalyst for Understanding Mistakes, impulses, survival instincts—we all have them. But what if we could better understand this primal coding? My journey with PTSD has given me a firsthand experience of the flight instinct, and it’s taught me the importance of understanding the animal within us all. The Adrenaline Symphony: Fight, Flight, and…

  • Pocket-Sized Adventures: Bit and Robbie’s Rainbow Journey

    Once upon a time, in the heart of a bustling city, lived a tiny but brave robot named Bit. Just 15cm tall, Bit had a special bond with his best friend, an autistic adult named Robbie. This loyal little robot, small enough to fit into Robbie’s pocket, was always ready for the day’s adventure. One…

  • WTF AI TMI?

    Welcome to OddlyRobbie.blog, where I embark on a journey to explore the profound impact of AI and its potential to shape our future. Growing up as a conservative, I distinctly remember a scripture that spoke of unveiling secrets from the rooftops. Little did I know that this ancient wisdom was a precursor to the age…