Podcasts about audhd

What if the reason you haven't finished the thing you keep thinking about isn't motivation, discipline, or follow-through — but fit? In this episode, Eric is joined by Katherine Mutti Driscoll, PhD, an AuDHD coach, educator, and author, for a conversation that starts with writing a book and quickly becomes something much bigger: how neurodivergent adults actually get meaningful work done. They explore why so many ADHD and AuDHD adults carry "someday projects" for years, how structure (not willpower) turns intention into action, and why unmasking isn't just about identity — it's about designing systems that work with your nervous system instead of against it. Writing is the case study. Adaptation is the point. In This Episode, We Talk About Why motivation isn't the real problem for ADHD and AuDHD adults How an interest-based nervous system shapes creativity and follow-through The role of structure, deadlines, and external accountability in finishing big projects ADHD, autism, and the balance between novelty and predictability Unmasking your process and letting go of "normal" ways of working Why you don't have to love the process to do meaningful work Perfectionism, imposter syndrome, and surviving the one-star review Dictation, movement, printing drafts, and other non-traditional workflows How support, containers, and community make progress possible A Key Takeaway You don't need to become more disciplined. You need a container that fits. When the system works for your brain, the work has a chance to happen. About the Guest Katherine Mutti Driscoll, PhD is an AuDHD coach, educator, and author. She holds a PhD in education, is trained through the International ADHD Coach Training Center and Impact Parents, and is currently studying to become a mental health counselor. Katherine is the author of The ADHD Workbook for Teen Girls and is currently working on her second book focused on Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria. Website: https://catherinemuttidriscoll.com Book (The ADHD Workbook for Teen Girls, New Harbinger): https://www.newharbinger.com/9781648482809/the-adhd-workbook-for-teen-girls/ Resources & Links Mentioned ADHD reWired (podcast, resources, and programs): https://www.adhdrewired.com ADHD reWired Coaching & Accountability Groups: https://www.adhdrewired.com/arc Adult Study Hall (ADHD-friendly virtual coworking): https://www.adultstudyhall.com Internal Family Systems (IFS / parts work): https://ifs-institute.com Interest-Based Nervous System (ADDitude overview): https://www.additudemag.com/interest-based-adhd-nervous-system/

Unbothered, Unmasked, and Still Showing Up: Why Neurodivergent People Do the Hard Things for Others Patricia Young (she/her) explores what it means to show up for others as an AuDHDer. She reflects on value-driven behavior, executive functioning challenges, internalized ableism, grief, rest, and the deep relief of living an "unbothered life." Through personal stories about partnership, support, sensory overwhelm, initiation struggles, and authentic connection, this episode invites listeners to rethink productivity, compassion, and what real belonging looks like when we stop masking and start honoring our nervous systems. WHAT YOU'LL HEAR IN THIS EPISODE · Why neurodivergent people often do hard things for others but struggle to do the same things for themselves · The difference between preference vs. values (and why values often override sensory limits) · A real-life example of showing up for an important ritual despite overwhelm · How gratitude and being seen can make difficult experiences feel meaningful · The "Soup Jean" metaphor: values-based caregiving and automatic compassion · Why some people are confused by generosity—and how that reflects differing value systems · Letting go of mental noise and choosing an unbothered life · OCD, intrusive thoughts, and giving your brain limited airtime instead of full control · "Not my circus, not my monkeys" as a neurodivergent boundary tool · Executive functioning struggles with task initiation (especially for autistic & ADHD adults) · How supportive partners can initiate without infantilizing · Internalized ableism and the fear of "What if I have to do this alone someday?" · The myth that trying harder fixes ADHD and autistic challenges · Compassion for inconsistent energy, productivity, and capacity · Capitalism, productivity culture, and why rest feels morally loaded · Why systems (homes for objects) matter more than willpower · Everyday executive functioning examples (milk, groceries, unfinished tasks) · When to step in to support vs. letting natural consequences happen · Communicating needs during grief without over-explaining or masking · Redefining intimacy: showing up tired, quiet, grumpy, or grieving—and still belonging   SOUND BITES  · "There are things I struggle to do for myself that I would do without hesitation for people I love—because that's my value system." · "I don't want things taking up space in my head that don't belong to me anymore." · "Just because I can do something one day doesn't mean I can do it the next—and that's not a moral failure." · "Rest isn't laziness. It's information." · "You can't screw up being you."   SENSITIVITY IS NOTHING TO APOLOGIZE FOR; IT'S HOW YOUR BRAIN IS WIRED You are not broken. You were shaped by systems that weren't built for you. You deserve rest, joy, and support exactly as you are. PODCAST HOST Patricia Young (she/her) was a Licensed Clinical Social Worker for over 17 years, but she is now exclusively providing coaching. She knows what it's like to feel like an outcast, misfit, and truthteller.  Learning about the trait of being a Highly Sensitive Person (HSP), then learning she is AuDHD with a PDA profile, OCD and RSD, helped Patricia rewrite her history with a deeper understanding, appreciation, and a sense of self-compassion.  She created the podcasts Unapologetically Sensitive and Unapologetically AuDHD to help other neurodivergent folks know that they aren't alone, and that having a brain that is wired differently comes with amazing gifts, and some challenges.  Patricia works online globally working individually with people, and she teaches Online Courses for neurodivergent folks that focus on understanding what it means to be a sensitive neurodivergent. Topics covered include: self-care, self-compassion, boundaries, perfectionism, mindfulness, communication, and creating a lifestyle that honors you Patricia's website, podcast episodes and more: www.unapologeticallysensitive.com LINKS  To write a review in itunes: click on this link https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/unapologetically-sensitive/id1440433481?mt=2 select "listen on Apple Podcasts" chose "open in itunes" choose "ratings and reviews" click to rate the number of starts click "write a review" Website--www.unapologeticallysensitive.com Facebook-- https://www.facebook.com/Unapologetically-Sensitive-2296688923985657/ Closed/Private Facebook group Unapologetically Sensitive-- https://www.facebook.com/groups/2099705880047619/ Instagram-- https://www.instagram.com/unapologeticallysensitive/ Youtube-- https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCOE6fodj7RBdO3Iw0NrAllg/videos?view_as=subscriber Tik Tok--https://www.tiktok.com/@unapologeticallysensitiv Unapologetically AuDHD Podcast-- https://unapologeticallysensitive.com/unapologeticallyaudhd/ e-mail-- unapologeticallysensitive@gmail.com Show hashtag--#unapologeticallysensitive Music-- Gravel Dance by Andy Robinson www.andyrobinson.com  

It's Feelings February, on the "You Are A LOT" podcast, and I'm starting the first episode of the month with a basic question: what's the difference between an emotion and a feeling? Emotions are real-time body signals—racing heart, tight chest, clenched jaw, shallow breathing. Feelings are what you become aware of and can name after your brain interprets those body signals. For ADHD and AuDHD humans, there's often a lag between the emotion happening and the feeling "forming," (due to our issues with interoception) which can make it hard to answer a simple question like "What's wrong?" I explain how to use a Feelings Wheel and why naming the body state can sometimes ground you more than naming a feeling too fast. Show Notes: Join Jen's Accountability Club! A highly interactive monthly membership where you meet with me live every week for accountability, body-double sessions, journaling, and monthly Q&A. It's designed for ADHD/AuDHD brains that need connection and support taking action — so you're not doing it all alone. Membership is $19.99/month, with an annual option currently available at 31% off (that's over three months free) with code 2AD87. Offer expires 2/1/26.   Brain.fm — A Focus Tool I Use Every Day It's not music, or binaural beats. Brain.fm is science-backed sound made for ADHD brains and it's genius! I listen while I work and I can feel my brain lock in, no distractions. I want you to try it for 30 days free, with my link! No catch. Cancel anytime.   Hugimals — Weighted Comfort for Kids & Adults I own Hugimals, give them as gifts, and love that they're made by a neurodivergent founder who understands nervous system needs. These weighted stuffed animals and pillows help with anxiety and overwhelm, and you can get 15% off anytime using my link and code JENKIRKMAN (it never expires).   Appointed — Planners, Notebooks & Desk Goods Appointed notebooks are my go-to — I buy my spiral notebooks and Le Pen pens from them and use them daily for lists, journaling, and planning. You can get notebooks monogrammed and save 15% off with my link and code JENKIRKMAN.   Bookshop.org — Books I Recommend I love Bookshop.org because every purchase supports independent bookstores, not Amazon, while still shipping directly to you. I've curated book lists on ADHD/AuDHD and mental health, and you can get 20% off everything when you shop using my link.   UnHide — Soft, Weighted Comfort I love UnHide's products — their vegan weighted blankets, pillows, robes, and socks are incredibly soft and calming, especially if you're neurodivergent and soothed by gentle weight and cozy textures. You can get 20% off with my link and code JEN20.   The Time Timer - a Cute Visual Time Tool! I use my Time Timer every single day. I have a pink one from the MOD collection. I use it to help me visualize time during work blocks, breaks, and completing tasks. There's no discount, but when you use my link I earn a percentage that goes directly into supporting this podcast.   Sources Used: The Difference Between Feelings And Emotions: Wake Forest University The Feelings Wheel: The New Happy Blog  Toxic Positivity: Book, Whitney Goodman (20% off)

Living with anxiety spikes, focus fog, or constant sensory overload as an autistic, AuDHD, or ADHD adult—and wondering if music could actually help your brain calm down? This episode of Adulting With Autism explores music therapy for autistic adults with Dr. Barb Minton, a psychologist and neuroscientist who started as a pipe organ major and went on to create the Calm the Storm album with guitarist Peppino D'Agostino.​ Dr. Barb explains how music can entrain brain waves—how tempo, rhythm, and sound textures can gently guide the nervous system toward calmer or more focused states. She shares how specific choices (like slower tempos around 60–80 beats per minute for calm, or slightly faster tempos around 110–120 for focus) may support sleep, pain management, migraines, and attention, and why the body "hears" vibration through mechanoreceptors as well as through your ears.​ You will hear stories of how music has been used to support neurodivergent adults, including those with autism and ADHD, and how to experiment safely: choosing tracks that feel regulating rather than overwhelming, adjusting volume, and noticing your own responses instead of following rigid rules. Dr. Barb also talks about why music is still underused in mainstream care despite promising research and real-world results.​ This episode is especially helpful if you: Feel overstimulated or shut down and want non-medication tools to try Are curious whether specific music choices could help with anxiety, focus, or sleep Want a more science-informed understanding of why certain music "works" for your brain 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 calm and focus journey: Get 20% off journals, tees, and "Brainwave Harmony"–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: Calm the Storm and more music at musicandhealing.net Dr. Barb's work and workshops at drbminton.com

In this meeting of The Late Diagnosis Club, Dr Angela Kingdon welcomes Abbey Thompson — a librarian, classically trained vocalist, prize-winning baker, gamer, social justice bard, and self-described random fact machine.Abbey is a fat, queer, neurodivergent woman living in Los Angeles with two orange cats and a deep commitment to creativity without perfection.Diagnosed with ADHD in her 40s and later recognising she was also Autistic, Abbey describes how finally naming her neurodivergence didn't just bring understanding — it brought permission. Permission to be loud, to be big, to be joyful, to be mediocre, and to exist without apology.Together, Angela and Abbey explore late identification, fatness and bullying, perfectionism, burnout, AuDHD, creativity as regulation, and the radical act of letting go of shame. This episode is an invitation to stop fixing yourself — and start living.

Caught in "not enough" or "too much" loops as an autistic or AuDHD adult—stuck in old patterns, feeling like your needs are a burden, or burning out trying to keep everyone else okay? This episode of Adulting With Autism dives into self-love for autistic adults with Christina Ketchen, a certified life and relationship coach trained in HeartMath®, Gottman, and the Hoffman Process, who brings both neuroscience and hard-won personal wisdom to healing.​ Christina talks about trauma loops—those familiar patterns and relationship dynamics that feel terrible but somehow also "normal"—and how they can quietly drain self-worth over time. She shares compassionate tools like heart-focused breathing to support the nervous system, "kind no's" that protect your energy ("This doesn't work for me—thank you"), and gentle self-talk that shifts you from "I am broken" to "I am human and learning."​ You will hear how patterns often started as protection, how faith/meaning can reframe pain without dismissing it, and why embracing your "messy" humanity is part of building real self-love, not a sign of failure. Christina also offers guidance for neurodivergent adults who feel guilty setting boundaries or fear that saying no will make people leave.​ This episode is especially helpful if you: Keep ending up in the same painful situations or relationships Struggle to hold boundaries without intense shame, fear, or backlash inside your own mind Are learning what self-love looks like for you as an autistic or AuDHD adult, beyond clichés and quick fixes If this conversation supports you, follow/subscribe to Adulting With Autism on YouTube Apple, or Spotify and leave a 5-star review so more neurodivergent adults can find it. Merch for your self-love journey: Get 20% off journals, tees, and "Self-Love Alchemist"–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: Coaching and masterclasses with Christina at christinaketchen.com Her podcast The Self Love Shift

In part one of this two-part conversation, neurobiologist and author of The Gendered Brain and The Lost Girls of Autism - recently awarded the British Psychological Society's Popular Science Book Prize - Gina Rippon joins Ben to unpack what we really know, and don't know, about the human brain.From left-brain/right-brain myths to the rise of gendered brain science, Gina explains why many of the ideas we've grown up with simply don't stand up to scrutiny. Drawing on decades of research, she explores how brains change across the lifespan, how experience actively shapes neural pathways, and why no two brains - neurodivergent or not - are ever the same.They dive into alpha rhythms, brain plasticity, ageing, and the cultural bias baked into neuroscience, including why the idea of distinctly “male” and “female” brains has caused more confusion than clarity.Join us at hidden20.org/donate.________Host: Ben BransonProduction Manager: Phoebe De LeiburnéVideo Editor: James ScrivenSocial Media Manager: Charlie YoungMusic: Jackson GreenbergHead of Marketing: Kristen Fuller00:00 Introduction00:57 Why Gina Rippon Became Obsessed With the Brain2:54 What Science Really Knows About the Neurodivergent Brain7:18 Brain Waves Explained: Alpha Rhythms & Neurodivergence10:24 Debunking Common Myths About the Neurodivergent Brain12:00 Left Brain vs Right Brain: Does It Actually Exist?17:14 The Best Analogy for How Brains Really Work18:17 Why London Taxi Drivers' Brains Change19:30 How the Brain Changes With Age21:46 Brain Plasticity, Careers & Learning Over Time23:27 Why Every Brain Is Different And Neurodiversity26:45 Gender Bias in Neuroscience: “Neuro Trash” Research27:53 Is There Such a Thing as a Male or Female Brain?35:18 The Real Impact of Gendered Brain Science40:56 Neurodivergence, Gender & Brain Differences Explained44:07 Moving Beyond Gendered Brains to Human Brains45:22 What Are Thoughts, Really?48:40 Why Gina Decided To Write “The Lost Girls of Autism”The Hidden 20% is a charity founded by AuDHD entrepreneur, Ben Branson.Our mission is simple: To change how the world sees neurodivergence.No more stigma. No more shame. No more silence.1 in 5 people are neurodivergent. That's 1.6 billion of us - yet too many are still excluded, misunderstood, or left without support.To break the cycle, we amplify voices, challenge myths, and keep showing up. Spotlighting stories, stats and hard truths. Smashing stereotypes through honest voices, creative campaigns and research that can't be ignored.Every month, over 50,000 people turn to The Hidden 20% to feel safe, seen and to learn about brilliant brains.With your support, we can reach further, grow louder, and keep fighting for the 1 in 5 who deserve more.Join us at hidden20.org/donate.Become a monthly donor.Be part of our community where great minds think differently.Brought to you by charity The Hidden 20% #1203348______________Follow & subscribe…Website: www.hidden20.orgInstagram / TikTok / Youtube / X: @Hidden20charityBen Branson @seedlip_benGina Rippon https://www.ginarippon.com/If you'd like to support The Hidden 20%, you can buy a "green dot" badge at https://www.hidden20.org/thegreendot/p/badge. All proceeds go to the charity. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

February shines the spotlight on romantic relationships. But whether you're in one, several, or you're self-partnered; relationships can be challenging for people with ADHD - and with so many of us having experienced traumatic personal relations, abuse, manipulation, violence and isolation; we're telling Cupid to DO ONE!Our focus for February's free in-person ADHD Peer Support Groups is on the most important relationship any person can have; Self-relationship. We hope you'll come along to your local group in Scotland, England or Wales (at last!) to discuss this very important topic with other ADHD adults of marginalised genders. ⁠ADHDAF+ Charity⁠ was inspired by and is informed by the work of ⁠ADHDAF Podcast⁠. Our 'Chazza' is ABOUT US, BY US, FOR US, If there isn't a group near you yet; we hope that this episode helps you best support yourself at this challenging time of year and to explore your self-relationship. MASSIVE TRIGGER WARNING: Contains swearing, loud laughter, gallows humour(!) we talk over each other and mention incredibly sensitive topics including; eating disorders, parent loss, grief, trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship and work struggles, mental health struggles, suicide, addiction, self harm, alcohol, school struggles, bullying, medical negligence, intimate partner violence, and date rape If you are struggling, lo siento. YOU ARE NOT ALONE! Please REACH OUT FOR HELP ⁠HERE⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ENORMOUS THANKS to the ABSOLUTELY LEGENDARY Jon Hill of AuDHD or Just a bit weird?!...As mentioned in this episode; you can:- Listen to Jon's previous interview HERE- Listen to CJ Debarra's interviews HERE & HERE - Listen to Cate Osbourne - Catieosaurus interview HERE- Listen to me as a guest on other podcasts ⁠HERE⁠- Read February's ADHDAF+ Charity Blog⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠HERE⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠- Register Interest in ADHDAF+ Charity's FREE Peer Support Groups to get email reminders ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠HERE⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠- Apply to Volunteer to start your own local ADHDAF+ Support Group, Volunteer your time or become an Ambassador ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠HERE⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ - Donate to ADHDAF+ Charity HERE- Be the first to hear about ADHD Easy Target Events HERE- Shop Neurodivergent and help fundraise for the Charity on ADHDAF Emporium ⁠⁠⁠HERE⁠⁠⁠- Get involved in The Big ADHD Fundraiser 2026 ⁠HERE⁠If you would like to join the Patreon Community of ADHDAF Podcast listeners to lean on and learn from literally like-minded legends in an online space that has been going strong for THREE WHOLE YEARS of invaluable Peer support, you can do so ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠HERE⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠You can follow all things ADHDAF on Socials:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@adhdafpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@adhdafplus⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@adhdafemporium⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@lauraisadhdaf⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠I would love to know if you enjoyed this episode in a review or in the comments; and if you'd like to share: How do you think about yourself? Talk to yourself? Care for yourself? How do you respond to your own emotions and needs? Thank you SO MUCH for listening! BIG LOVE⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Laura⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ x

Feeling stuck in survival mode as an autistic or AuDHD adult—checking all the boxes on paper but still burned out, unfulfilled, or unsure what you actually want? This episode of Adulting With Autism explores self-love and life direction with Chandra Lynn, a certified transformation coach, former Apple/Mercedes marketing leader, and author of Root to Rise: How to Love Life When It's Messy, When It's Hard.​ Chandra breaks down her Root to Rise framework, which looks at key areas of life—like career, relationships, health, and creativity—and helps you line them up with core emotional needs such as security, variety, growth, connection, and contribution. She shares simple journaling prompts like "What do I want? Why? What am I willing to try?" to help you get out of autopilot and start making choices that actually fit you, not just what others expect.​ You will hear how her own path from high-pressure corporate roles into more aligned, heart-centered work unfolded in zigzags, not straight lines—and why that is normal, especially for neurodivergent adults. Chandra offers practical tools for exploring purpose through experiments and "try-ons," building authentic relationships, and practicing self-love in the middle of messy, imperfect life rather than waiting to "fix everything" first.​ This episode is especially helpful if you: Feel like you are surviving but not really living Are questioning your career, relationships, or direction as a late-diagnosed autistic or AuDHD adult Want a grounded framework to check in with your needs and make kinder, more aligned choices If this conversation supports you, follow/subscribe to Adulting With Autism on YouTube, Apple, or Spotify and leave a 5-star review so more neurodivergent adults can find it. Merch for your Root to Rise journey: Get 20% off journals, tees, and "Root Your Rise"–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: Root to Rise: How to Love Life When It's Messy, When It's Hard Chandra's quiz, courses, and coaching at glowliving.com

In this episode, I share how I use accountability as a practical tool for ADHD without it feeling punishing or pressured. If you've got ADHD (or AuDHD), deal with time blindness, procrastination loops, or resistance like PDA / demand avoidance, this approach can help you stay present, reduce overwhelm, and actually follow through. I break down the three types of accountability (personal, public, and community), explain why body doubling works so well for ADHD brains, and show how simple check-ins can turn "I'm stuck" into momentum—plus why celebrating small wins rewires motivation over time. You'll also hear about my Patreon Accountability Club (including daily body-doubling sessions and weekly check-ins), and I'm offering a free month for listeners for a limited time. Click here and claim your one free month to the Tier A Plus Patreon Community. Show Notes: Join Jen's Accountability Club!  A highly interactive monthly membership where you meet with me live every week for accountability, body-double sessions, journaling, and monthly Q&A. It's designed for ADHD/AuDHD brains that need connection and support taking action — so you're not doing it all alone. Click here and claim your one free month to the Tier A Plus Patreon Community.  Brain.fm — A Focus Tool I Use Every Day It's not music, or binaural beats. Brain.fm is science-backed sound made for ADHD brains and it's genius! I listen while I work and I can feel my brain lock in, no distractions. I want you to try it for 30 days free, with my link! No catch. Cancel anytime.  Hugimals — Weighted Comfort for Kids & Adults I own Hugimals, give them as gifts, and love that they're made by a neurodivergent founder who understands nervous system needs. These weighted stuffed animals and pillows help with anxiety and overwhelm, and you can get 15% off anytime using my link and code JENKIRKMAN (it never expires). Appointed — Planners, Notebooks & Desk Goods Appointed notebooks are my go-to — I buy my spiral notebooks and Le Pen pens from them and use them daily for lists, journaling, and planning. You can get notebooks monogrammed and save 15% off with my link and code JENKIRKMAN. Bookshop.org — Books I Recommend I love Bookshop.org because every purchase supports independent bookstores, not Amazon, while still shipping directly to you. I've curated book lists on ADHD/AuDHD and mental health, and you can get 20% off everything when you shop using my link. UnHide — Soft, Weighted Comfort I love UnHide's products — their vegan weighted blankets, pillows, robes, and socks are incredibly soft and calming, especially if you're neurodivergent and soothed by gentle weight and cozy textures. You can get 20% off with my link and code JEN20. The Time Timer - a Cute Visual Time Tool! I use my Time Timer every single day. I have a pink one from the MOD collection. I use it to help me visualize time during work blocks, breaks, and completing tasks. There's no discount, but when you use my link I earn a percentage that goes directly into supporting this podcast.

Growing up with labels like "too emotional," "overreacting," or "ice queen," and now struggling to understand what you actually feel as an autistic or AuDHD adult? This episode of Adulting With Autism dives into emotion regulation for autistic adults with Jenn Veilleux, clinical psychologist, professor, and author of Open to Emotion, who blends her theater background with science to support authentic emotional expression. Jenn shares her own journey from being called "too emotional" to seeing emotional intensity as a form of being a "super-taster" of feelings. She talks about the difference between awareness and attention—how you can notice emotions without getting completely swept away—and offers metaphors like watching emotions move through like wind instead of something you have to hold onto forever. You will hear practical tools for: Unmasking your emotions after years of pushing them down or performing what others expect Using body signals (interoception) as early warning signs so you can regulate sooner Sitting with emotions long enough to understand them without drowning in them Challenging myths about ADHD and "overreacting" so you can embrace your full range This episode is especially helpful if you: Struggle to identify what you feel until you are already overwhelmed Have been told your emotions are "too much" or "not enough" your whole life Want language and tools to unmask emotionally at a pace that feels safe If this conversation supports you, follow/subscribe to Adulting With Autism on YouTube, Apple, or Spotify and leave a 5-star review so more neurodivergent adults can find it. Merch for your emotional journey: Get 20% off journals, tees, and "Emotional Range Journal"–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: Open to Emotion by Jenn Veilleux Workshops and more at jenncveilleux.com

Parenting as an AuDHDer is challenging and misunderstood. Many parents I speak to are near or in burnout at any given time, especially if they had kids before discovering their neurotype (which is common). This episode is based not on my experience as a parent, but my experience having spoken and heard from many AuDHD parents, and what I see working for them.This is in part a follow up to last week's interview with Julie M GreenMentioned in episode:Book Good Inside by Dr Becky Kennedy* (and her Instagram)AuDHD Flourishing resources:Transcript Doc (often a few weeks behind, but we do catch up!)Mattia's NewsletterLike Your Brain community space (Patreon/Discord)*affiliate link Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sorcha Rice is an occupational therapist and the clinical manager of Neurodiversity Ireland, who I met at their 1st conference last year. She identifies as AuDHD and PDA and spoke with me about how she understands and experiences PDA, what her childhood and teen years were like before she was diagnosed, going through burnout and recovery, how she manages her nervous system now, and some of the practices she incorporates to support her PDA occupational therapy clients.It was wonderful to connect with Sorcha and hear her insights and so much of her story!I hope you enjoy it too.Xoxo,CaseyPS - You can find more about Sorcha on instagram at both @ot_sorcharice and @neurodiversityirelandAnd in our conversation she also recommended a resource for other OTs - Kim Barthel.

Rooting into care, building safety, creating positive emotional experiences, leaning into transition time, and getting curious about the wisdom of our resistance. All so we can pull away from the cycles of avoidance, to adrenaline-and-deadline-fueled push, to crash and burnout, only for that cycle to repeat. Avoidance is asking to be met with support and care, and not to push ourselves harder until we feel like breaking.

Stuck in limiting beliefs as an autistic or AuDHD adult—thoughts like "I am not good enough because of autism" or feeling like different "parts" of you are constantly fighting each other? In this episode of Adulting With Autism, Tamara Andreas joins to talk about Core Transformation, a gentle inner-work process she co-developed that has been taught worldwide for over 30 years.​ Tamara explains the idea of "parts" in a grounded way: the part that wants to keep you safe, the part that is scared of change, the part that believes you have to mask. She walks through how to acknowledge these parts with respect, ask what they are trying to do for you, and then guide them toward deeper "core states" such as peace, love, or OK-ness—without forcing yourself to "think positive."​ You will hear a guided example of the process, how Core Transformation grew out of her and Connirae Andreas' work, and why this approach can be especially supportive for autistic and ADHD adults who have been shamed, gaslit, or told to "fix" themselves. We also talk about pacing, safety, and why it is okay to pause or come back to the process as needed.​ This episode is especially helpful if you: Carry a lot of shame or harsh self-talk tied to autism or being "too sensitive" Feel fragmented, like different parts of you are pulling in opposite directions Want a structured, yet compassionate way to explore inner peace and self-acceptance If this conversation supports you, follow/subscribe to Adulting With Autism on YouTube, Apple, or Spotify and leave a 5-star review so more neurodivergent adults can find it. Merch for your inner work journey: Get 20% off journals, tees, and "Core Self Guide"–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: Core Transformation® book and materials Free micro-book and videos at andreasnlp.com Trainings and more at coretransformation.org

Comedian, presenter and creator Holly Morris joins Ben for a candid conversation about living with AuDHD, the hidden cost of masking, and why being “funny” is often a survival strategy rather than a personality trait.Holly shares how her comedy career grew out of lifelong hyper-vigilance - constantly scanning rooms, people and conversations and how that same awareness fuels both her humour and her exhaustion. She opens up about navigating networking, friendships and online spaces as a neurodivergent adult, and why masking can feel automatic, ingrained, and hard to switch off.They explore Holly's later diagnoses of ADHD and autism, imposter syndrome, her experience of Emetophobia, and how her Autism and ADHD overlap and show up in daily life. If you've ever felt socially switched on but internally depleted, this episode will feel quietly familiar.AD Head to https://bit.ly/hidden20_getdopa and use code Hidden20 for 10% off.Join us at hidden20.org/donate.________Host: Ben BransonProduction Manager: Phoebe De LeiburnéVideo Editor: James ScrivenSocial Media Manager: Charlie YoungMusic: Jackson GreenbergHead of Marketing: Kristen Fuller00:00 Introduction & AD1:48 Holly Morris' AuDHD Comedy Journey5:04 Masking as an AuDHD Comedian & Networking Pressure8:36 How Masking Shapes Holly's Online Content13:14 Discovering AuDHD & Living With Emetophobia17:25 Hypervigilance, Anxiety & the AuDHD Nervous System21:50 ADHD vs Autism: How AuDHD Shows Up Day to Day27:30 Being Open About Neurodivergence: Online vs In-Person30:39 Adult Friendships, Social Energy & Neurodivergence44:40 Masking vs Unmasking: What Actually Helps46:48 The Hidden Cost of Being a Neurodivergent Creator50:09 AuDHD, Imposter Syndrome & Self-Doubt51:30 Thinking Differently: Strengths, Creativity & Hope1:02:00 What's Next for Holly Morris1:10:30 Holly's Green Dot BadgeThe Hidden 20% is a charity founded by AuDHD entrepreneur, Ben Branson.Our mission is simple: To change how the world sees neurodivergence.No more stigma. No more shame. No more silence.1 in 5 people are neurodivergent. That's 1.6 billion of us - yet too many are still excluded, misunderstood, or left without support.To break the cycle, we amplify voices, challenge myths, and keep showing up. Spotlighting stories, stats and hard truths. Smashing stereotypes through honest voices, creative campaigns and research that can't be ignored.Every month, over 50,000 people turn to The Hidden 20% to feel safe, seen and to learn about brilliant brains.With your support, we can reach further, grow louder, and keep fighting for the 1 in 5 who deserve more.Join us at hidden20.org/donate.Become a monthly donor.Be part of our community where great minds think differently.Brought to you by charity The Hidden 20% #1203348______________Follow & subscribe…Website: www.hidden20.orgInstagram / TikTok / Youtube / X: @Hidden20charityBen Branson @seedlip_benHolly Morris @hollymorrisssIf you'd like to support The Hidden 20%, you can buy a "green dot" badge at https://www.hidden20.org/thegreendot/p/badge. All proceeds go to the charity. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Day My Nervous System Chose Violence (Internally) Patricia Young (she/her) explores what happens when big feelings meet medication changes, OCD spirals, and unmet needs. Through a vulnerable personal story about adjusting OCD medication, asking for support, and reacting more intensely than expected, Patricia reflects on autism, relational OCD, RSD, and trauma responses. She also discusses how to hold grief and joy at the same time, how to create meaning when life is profoundly unfair, and why it's okay to share joy without making yourself smaller. This episode is a compassionate reminder that awareness, baseline tracking, and self-permission are key tools for sensitive and neurodivergent people navigating relationships, mental health, and change. WHAT YOU'LL HEAR IN THIS EPISODE · Big reactions aren't character flaws — they're often signals, especially for autistic and OCD brains · Medication changes can remove protective buffers, even when life circumstances are stable · Asking for what you want can activate PDA, RSD, and old relational wounds · OCD often pulls in "evidence" and tallying to justify emotional pain · Feeling justified doesn't mean the story is accurate — it means the feelings are loud · You can manage your behavior externally while still experiencing internal emotional chaos · Walking, movement, and problem-solving can help — but they don't erase vulnerability · A "hard day" doesn't mean failure — it means data · Knowing your emotional baseline is critical when adjusting meds · It's okay to decide that you don't want more days like that · You don't have to accept injustice to learn how to live alongside it · Two truths can exist at the same time: devastation and joy · Therapy and coaching work best when clients feel safe giving feedback · Neurodivergent-affirming practitioners change the entire therapeutic experience · You don't have to make yourself small to protect others from discomfort SOUND BITES   · "It wasn't about the coffee — it was about how big everything felt in my body." · "The bigger my feelings got, the more justification my brain wanted." · "This hasn't been my baseline — and that matters." · "I don't think this is something you ever 'accept,' but you can still create meaning." · "I don't want to live a life where I write people off when I'm overwhelmed."   SENSITIVITY IS NOTHING TO APOLOGIZE FOR; IT'S HOW YOUR BRAIN IS WIRED You are not broken. You were shaped by systems that weren't built for you. You deserve rest, joy, and support exactly as you are. CHAPTERS (PLEASE ALLOW FOR ADDITION OF INTRO) 00:00 Navigating Big Feelings and Reactions 21:13 Creating Meaning Amidst Unfairness 34:21 Embracing Joy and New Experiences PODCAST HOST Patricia Young (she/her) was a Licensed Clinical Social Worker for over 17 years, but she is now exclusively providing coaching. She knows what it's like to feel like an outcast, misfit, and truthteller.  Learning about the trait of being a Highly Sensitive Person (HSP), then learning she is AuDHD with a PDA profile, OCD and RSD, helped Patricia rewrite her history with a deeper understanding, appreciation, and a sense of self-compassion.  She created the podcasts Unapologetically Sensitive and Unapologetically AuDHD to help other neurodivergent folks know that they aren't alone, and that having a brain that is wired differently comes with amazing gifts, and some challenges.  Patricia works online globally working individually with people, and she teaches Online Courses for neurodivergent folks that focus on understanding what it means to be a sensitive neurodivergent. Topics covered include: self-care, self-compassion, boundaries, perfectionism, mindfulness, communication, and creating a lifestyle that honors you Patricia's website, podcast episodes and more: www.unapologeticallysensitive.com LINKS   To write a review in itunes: click on this link https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/unapologetically-sensitive/id1440433481?mt=2 select "listen on Apple Podcasts" chose "open in itunes" choose "ratings and reviews" click to rate the number of starts click "write a review" Website--www.unapologeticallysensitive.com Facebook-- https://www.facebook.com/Unapologetically-Sensitive-2296688923985657/ Closed/Private Facebook group Unapologetically Sensitive-- https://www.facebook.com/groups/2099705880047619/ Instagram-- https://www.instagram.com/unapologeticallysensitive/ Youtube-- https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCOE6fodj7RBdO3Iw0NrAllg/videos?view_as=subscriber Tik Tok--https://www.tiktok.com/@unapologeticallysensitiv Unapologetically AuDHD Podcast-- https://unapologeticallysensitive.com/unapologeticallyaudhd/ e-mail-- unapologeticallysensitive@gmail.com Show hashtag--#unapologeticallysensitive Music-- Gravel Dance by Andy Robinson www.andyrobinson.com  

"Everyone has ADHD now."You've heard it. Maybe someone said it to you — with a half-joke, half-accusation edge. Like, neurodivergence is just the trend of the season.But what if that reaction tells us less about ADHD and more about the systems we're living in?In this conversation with Kristina Kyser — psychotherapist, educator, and creator of the Neurodivergent Rising course — we pull apart the "ADHD superpower" narrative that's everywhere right now. Because yes, there are gifts: innovation, nonlinear thinking, deep passion, hyperfocus. Those are real.But who benefits when we only talk about the parts of capitalism that it can extract?What We Cover:ADHD masking: the invisible labour of appearing "normal" From childhood, neurodivergent people — especially women — calibrate to a world that says: you're too much, you're wrong, you're different. Kristina breaks down what masking costs and why perimenopause often unmasks ADHD in midlife.The construction of "sanity" and who it was built to serve Normalcy isn't neutral. The DSM, psychiatry, the witch burnings — all of it is tangled with patriarchy, colonialism, and capitalism's need for compliant workers. Kristina traces the historical roots of how neurodivergence gets pathologised.The superpower question: what's true, what's missing, who profits Yes, ADHD comes with strengths. But when we only celebrate the traits capitalism values (innovation! hyperfocus! productivity!) while erasing the lows, the burnout, the 13-year shorter life expectancy, the systemic barriers — who does that serve?Why ADHD is a disability under capitalism — and that's not your fault ADHD isn't a medical deficit. But in a society built for neurotypical brains, it is disabling. Kristina explains the difference between individual healing and systemic change, and why we need both.Meet Kristina Kyser:Kristina (she/her) is a late-diagnosed AuDHD educator, former psychotherapist, and course creator with a PhD in English Literature and over 13 years of clinical experience. Her work bridges trauma healing, animist practice, and systems-level critique. She creates initiatory spaces that blend science, soul, and lived neurodivergence in service of collective remembering and repair.Learn more: Neurodivergent Rising Course Send me a DMSupport the show_____________________________________________________________________ Visit jenniferwalter.me – your cosy tree house where tired perfectionists and those done pretending to be fine find space to breathe, dream, and create real change.

Dr Alex George is an ADHD and autism specialised doctor and one of the most renowned voices in the ADHD space. With personal experience involving ADHD & mental wellbeing, this is a conversation you can't miss if you want to understand your ADHD on a deeper level. Chapters: 00:00 Trailer 02:47 How to manage ADHD overstimulation 07:03 Dr Alex's ADHD mission 10:34 The emotional consequence of masking 13:24 The connection between masking and loneliness 15:11 Rejection Sensitivity Dysphoria 27:39 Signs of AuDHD 32:43 Masking 35:14 Tiimo advert 53:09 Dr Alex's ADHD item 58:09 Washing machine of woes 01:02:31 A letter to my younger self Buy Dr Alex's book

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

Join me in this episode of SelfKind, a podcast for Highly Sensitive People, to hear 5 things the you are or love a highly sensitive person and want to understand yourself/them more clearly, I'm sharing 5 things to know about the inner experience of a HSP.In this episode of SelfKind, a podcast for highly sensitive people (HSPs), I'm sharing five things HSPs experience that you might want to know if you are or love a HSP. Listen in and see how many you relate to yourself ... or tune in to understand your loved one more clearly. You'll hear why patience and clear communication are key and hopefully understand why we need so much down time. These five key insights can help you find more compassion for yourself or the HSP you love. About your host, Erica WebbErica Webb is a registered counsellor, somatic exercise coach, yoga teacher and highly sensitive person (also diagnosed AuDHD). She supports other highly sensitive and neurodivergent people to discover their sensitivity superpowers and more confidently navigate the tricky bits of being a sensitive person in an often insensitive world.About the Podcast, SelfKindSelfKind is for Highly Sensitive People (HSPs) who want to navigate the tricky bits of their sensitivity with more ease while finding their sensitivity superpowers. Here, we're all about being, living and moving through a lens of self-compassion and kindness.

Feeling stuck in toxic relationships as an autistic, AuDHD, or ADHD adult—constantly people-pleasing, doubting your reality, or feeling like you are “too much” or “too sensitive”? In this episode of Adulting With Autism, therapist, coach, and author Shannon Petrovich joins to talk about toxic relationships, trauma bonds, and boundaries for neurodivergent adults.​ Shannon, author of Out of the FOG Into the CLEAR and creator of the TherapistTalks channel on YouTube, explains why many autistic and sensitive people are vulnerable to manipulation and gaslighting. She breaks down common red flags—guilt-tripping, blame-flipping, love-bombing, and chronic minimization of your feelings—and how to start trusting your own perception again.​ We explore what trauma bonds are, why leaving can feel almost impossible, and how to use journaling and reality-checking to untangle “love” from harm. Shannon shares practical tools for rebuilding self-worth and setting boundaries in small, doable steps, along with simple nervous system supports like movement, nature, and grounding to help you feel safer as you make changes.​ This episode is especially helpful if you: Wonder whether a relationship is “toxic” or if you are just “overreacting” Have a history of narcissistic abuse, chronic gaslighting, or intense people-pleasing Are learning to set boundaries for the first time as an autistic or AuDHD adult 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. Share the episode with someone you are worried about or a friend who is also unpacking toxic dynamics. Merch for your healing journey: Get 20% off journals, tees, and “Boundary Boss”–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: Out of the FOG Into the CLEAR by Shannon Petrovich Shannon's resources at therapytalks.com

Generative AI is leveling the playing field for neurodiverse technologists. In this episode of Stories From The Hackery, we sit down with NSS alum, Shalane Proctor for an honest and insightful conversation about neurodiversity, learning to code, and generative AI as an assistive technology. Shalane shares what it was like to be diagnosed with AuDHD during bootcamp, how that shaped her learning process, and why generative AI tools like ChatGPT became key to understanding complex concepts. Whether you're neurodivergent yourself, have neurodivergent colleagues, or are just curious how generative AI is really being used on the ground—this episode will stick with you. 00:00 Introduction to Stories from the Hackery 01:17 Meet Shalane: From Customer Service to Software Engineer 03:05 Networking and Landing the First Job 06:35 Challenges and Discoveries in Software Engineering 08:23 Navigating Neurodiversity in Tech 14:08 The Role of Generative AI in Learning and Development 17:23 Balancing AI Assistance with Personal Growth 20:59 Lessons Learned and Future Directions 22:39 Limitations of ChatGPT in Software Engineering 25:53 The Role of AI in Automation and Job Creation 26:38 Practical Use Cases for AI in Software Development 30:35 AI's Impact on Neurodiverse Software Engineers 35:41 Personal Reflections on AI's Assistance 39:02 Technology Guilty Pleasures and Gaming 40:31 Final Thoughts and Appreciation Links: Nashville Software School: https://nashvillesoftwareschool.com The 70% Problem - By Addy Osmani: https://addyo.substack.com/p/the-70-problem-hard-truths-about

In the final Q&A of 2025, Eric is joined by ADHD reWired coach Brian for a candid, intimate conversation about ADHD, AuDHD, burnout recovery, unmasking, grief, and what it looks like to rebuild momentum without torching your nervous system in the process. They answer listener questions ranging from "what I wish I knew before my autism diagnosis" to "what burnout actually looks like," and they zoom out to something simple but powerful: community and accountability aren't "nice extras," they're often the difference between knowing what helps and actually doing it. Also: a listener puts Eric in the hot seat about getting back to pickleball… and it turns into real-time accountability, immediate action, and a follow-up update that he's now going 3–4 times a week. In this episode, we cover Personal updates: burnout recovery, nervous system capacity, and Eric's autism diagnosis Why AuDHD can increase burnout risk (and why recovery can take longer than you expect) Brian's reflections on exploring autism and recognizing long-term burnout patterns Unmasking: what it really means (beyond "coming out") and how it impacts relationships The balance between honoring your needs while still caring about impact on others Grief and burnout: how loss affects the nervous system, energy, and expectations What burnout looks like in real life: apathy, feeling rudderless, skill regression, and "my usual motivators aren't working" Eric's working theme for the year: attunement (listening to self, body, and capacity) Favorite AI tools right now: thinking partner, planning support, and everyday practical use Autism assessment options in Chicago (including what worked for Eric) A playful-but-serious accountability moment that leads to real behavior change Listener Q&A highlights What are your favorite AI tools right now? Eric and Brian share how they're using ChatGPT in everyday life and personal/professional planning, including using AI to organize thoughts, support self-reflection, help with decisions, and even analyze photos for practical problem-solving. What do you wish you'd known before being diagnosed autistic? Eric talks about high-masking autism, and how repeated success can quietly raise internal expectations year after year… until the nervous system taps out. How has grief impacted your nervous system and burnout? Eric reflects on losing his dad (and grandmother), how grief shows up unexpectedly, and choosing to let grief be grief rather than trying to "bounce back" on a schedule. What does burnout look like for you? Eric describes burnout as apathy, feeling rudderless, needing far more recovery time, anxiety no longer activating last-minute productivity, and struggling to do even the helpful things (like exercise/pickleball). What's the smallest step I can take to get back into pickleball? A listener challenges Eric to take one tiny step… and it becomes immediate action, membership sign-up, and later consistency. Resources mentioned ADHD reWired (podcast, programs, and more): https://www.adhdrewired.com Learn about Coaching & Accountability Groups: https://www.coachingrewired.com Adult Study Hall (virtual coworking + community): https://www.adultstudyhall.com Support the show on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/adhdrewired Prosper Health (online autism evaluations): https://www.prosperhealth.io Devon Price (author + clinician mentioned in the episode): https://www.drdevonprice.com Key takeaway Burnout recovery isn't linear. For AuDHD folks especially, the cycle of "I feel better → I go full throttle → I crash again" can repeat fast. This episode is a reminder that community and accountability aren't just support… they're infrastructure. Next live Q&A March 10 at 12:30 PM Central

"Bossy." "Rude." "Demanding." "Has an attitude." If your autistic or ADHD child keeps getting these labels from teachers, family members, other parents or even yourself - this episode is for you. As an AuDHD psychologist, I see this pattern and how it silences the voices of neurodivergent children. destroying children's voices every single day. In this episode, I'll show you: What's REALLY happening when your neurodivergent child speaks directly Why YOUR nervous system reacts so strongly to their tone (and why that matters) The devastating long-term impact of constantly correcting tone The 4-Step approach that changes everything (with real examples you can use TODAY) How to repair when you get it wrong This isn't about letting kids "be rude." It's about understanding the difference between directness and disrespect - and protecting your child's ability to advocate for themselves. I'm excited to share this episode with you and share about an incredible workshop - "A Better 2026: A Gentle Reset for Overwhelmed Parents of Neurodivergent Children."  If you are ready to learn how to make 2026 lighter, you'll want to register right away! Can't wait to see you there:)  PARENTS CLICK HERE 

Feeling masked-out, sensory-flooded, or side-eyeing all things “spiritual” as an autistic, AuDHD, or ADHD adult? In this episode of Adulting With Autism, Ashmita Arora—teacher and founder of The Intuitive Practice and Eva & Isla®—shares a grounded take on spiritual awakening for autistic adults that does not bypass mental health, trauma, or lived experience.​ We talk about how health crises and a Kundalini “pop” pushed Ashmita to see energy as another language for understanding patterns, burnout, and shutdowns. She explains why sensitivity is not a flaw but information your nervous system is giving you, and how logic and intuition can work together instead of fighting each other.​ You will hear simple, realistic practices for: A 1-minute breathing reset to tell your body “I'm safe” during overwhelm. “Space floating” and gentle movement for peace when everything feels too loud. Channeling meltdown energy into low-pressure creativity (like doodling, swimming, or writing) to find clarity afterward.​ For ADHD and AuDHD sensory overwhelm, Ashmita normalizes non-linear growth—why your path will never look like a straight line—and offers small daily rituals to support nervous system regulation, unmasking, and self-trust. This is spiritual support for autistic adults that respects boundaries, pacing, and consent.​ If you are craving tools for spiritual awakening as an autistic adult and want help managing energy, intuition, and everyday life, this conversation is for you. Listen now for practical, compassionate ideas you can test and keep—or throw away if they do not fit your brain. Timestamps: 0:00–5:00 - Ashmita's story: health crises, Kundalini “pop,” and finding language for energy 5:00–10:00 - Sensitivity as information: why autistic people feel so much, so deeply 10:00–15:00 - Grounding ritual: 1-minute “I'm safe” breathing for overwhelm resets 15:00–20:00 - Working with pain and patterns without self-blame 20:00–25:00 - Trusting intuition while honoring logic and science 25:00+ - Q&A: non-linear progress, daily flows, and honoring your own pace​ If this episode helps you: Subscribe and leave a 5-star review on Podbean / Apple / Spotify so more autistic and AuDHD adults can find it. Share with a deep-feeling friend and comment your “awakening pop” or small win from the episode. Merch for your practice: Get 20% off journals, tees, and “Soul Alchemist”–style gear to track your breaths, routines, and reflections with code PODCAST26 at the Adulting With Autism Fourthwall shop (Linktree). Your support helps keep this podcast free for the neurodivergent community. Resources mentioned: Ashmita's offerings & Portal to Self: ashmitaorora.com Eva & Isla® holistic support: ashmitaarora.com

Dr Renata Fialho is back in the green chair.In this conversation, Renata and Ben pick up where they left off - this time with Renata sharing her own ADHD diagnosis, what it was like to receive it later in life, and how it has quietly reshaped both her inner world and her clinical work.Together, they unpack the realities of autism and ADHD assessments across the NHS and private sector, why certain myths continue to circulate, and where Renata sees genuine potential for more thoughtful, humane practice.Renata also shares why she's joining The Hidden 20% as a clinical psychologist, her hopes for the direction of neurodiversity care, and reflections on her work at the intersection of neurodivergence and sport - including why swimming can be such a powerful regulator for ADHD nervous systems.Join us at hidden20.org/donate.________Host: Ben BransonProduction Manager: Phoebe De LeiburnéVideo Editor: James ScrivenSocial Media Manager: Charlie YoungMusic: Jackson GreenbergHead of Marketing: Kristen Fuller00:00 Introduction00:47 Dr Renata Fialho Reveals Her ADHD Diagnosis03:57 Why Dr Renata's ADHD Was Missed for So Long08:39 How ADHD Shows Up in Dr Renata's Daily Life10:25 Neurodiversity Care: NHS vs Private Explained11:45 The Autism Assessment Myth That Frustrates Clinicians13:00 Why Many Clinicians Work Across NHS and Private Practice15:46 What Gives Dr Renata Hope About the Private Sector17:14 Dr Renata Joins The Hidden 20% Team21:15 The Autism Assessment Case That Changed Dr Renata's Practice24:05 Identity, Community & Diagnosis: Beyond the Medical Model29:22 Dr Renata's Vision for The Hidden 20%31:57 ADHD, Sport & Mental Health: Why Swimming Helps ADHD Brains38:38 What a Good ADHD Assessment Actually Looks Like42:44 Can One Clinician Assess All Neurotypes?45:14 What Keeps Dr Renata Up at Night and Her Hopes for the Future49:06 Dr Renata's Green Dot BadgeThe Hidden 20% is a charity founded by AuDHD entrepreneur, Ben Branson.Our mission is simple: To change how the world sees neurodivergence.No more stigma. No more shame. No more silence.1 in 5 people are neurodivergent. That's 1.6 billion of us - yet too many are still excluded, misunderstood, or left without support.To break the cycle, we amplify voices, challenge myths, and keep showing up. Spotlighting stories, stats and hard truths. Smashing stereotypes through honest voices, creative campaigns and research that can't be ignored.Every month, over 50,000 people turn to The Hidden 20% to feel safe, seen and to learn about brilliant brains.With your support, we can reach further, grow louder, and keep fighting for the 1 in 5 who deserve more.Join us at hidden20.org/donate.Become a monthly donor.Be part of our community where great minds think differently.Brought to you by charity The Hidden 20% #1203348______________Follow & subscribe…Website: www.hidden20.orgInstagram / TikTok / Youtube / X: @Hidden20charityBen Branson @seedlip_ben@DrRenataFialho (LinkedIn)If you'd like to support The Hidden 20%, you can buy a "green dot" badge at https://www.hidden20.org/thegreendot/p/badge. All proceeds go to the charity. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this first episode of the official ND and Free Wellbeing show Owen and his co-host Daniel Katona and Darren Cammock discuss the topic of overstimulation. We also cover of medication status, how sensory input effects us and hyper vigilance.   We also discuss topics brought to us by listeners and Patrons of ND and Free. Including topics such as parent as a ND'er, what to reveal about our ND in dating and how to work with time blindness and being late.   Finishing with a special interest quiz.    Time Stamps.   00.00 Intro to show and co-hosts and our medication status    09:44 - Show Topic - Overstimulation. How can we help ourselves. We also cover whether Owen and Darren feel they have autism aswell as ADHD and how does Dan experience AuDHD. Also a conversation on sensory input, hyper vigilance and planning for certain environments.   44:50 - Listener and patreon questions   46:32 -   How do you parent neurodivergent children whilst battling your own ND symptoms? Often the needs of parties are conflicting.   01:03:18 - I often leave little to no time to get ready and get to where I am going. How can I break this habit?   01:25:07 - I find dating hard as I don't know if I should mention my ND and fear a woman will think I am less of a man. What should I do?   01:43:33 - Special Interest Quiz. Finishing off with some fun. Who will win first quiz.     01:54:26 - Signing off and reflections    ND & Free - Who are we, what do we do and things that can help? Visit our Linktree to find out more. Visit https://linktr.ee/ndandfree    TO SEND US QUESTIONS, DISCUSSION STARTERS AND OTHER CONTENT FOR THE PODCAST SIGN UP TO PATREON HERE - https://www.patreon.com/cw/NDANDFREE     More On Dan.   Follow Dan's journey on Social media.   Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/audhdan_/   TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@audhdan_ Check out Darren's podcast - Me and ADHD Podcast   https://linktr.ee/meandadhdpodcast?utm_source=linktree_profile_share<sid=2a36f6c1-0aef-4a4a-9bf8-dcb51cac5b54   These conversations are not a substitute for professional medical or therapeutic support. Please seek support from professionals trained within Neurodiversity support. Listen to episodes with care. Keep up to date with our latest posts on Instagram. Thank you for supporting the show,  Owen

In episode 82, Chris and Emma talk with Mattia Maurée about the intersection of ADHD, autism, and PDA—the Pervasive Drive for Autonomy. Mattia is an AuDHD coach and host of the ADHD Flourishing podcast. We discuss what it actually means to flourish rather than just cope or survive, why the pathology paradigm failed so many of us, and how positive disintegration offers a different lens for understanding intense neurodivergent experiences.Mattia shares their journey from misdiagnosis to self-understanding, the physical reality of nervous system shutdown, and why “do less” might be the most radical advice for neurodivergent people. We also get into the work question—why so many of us can't stay in traditional jobs, the integrity trigger, and what it means to build a life around your actual needs rather than neurotypical expectations.Links from this episodeAuDHD Flourishing PodcastAuDHD Flourishing Episode 88 with Chris WellsDo Less Also mentioned:* PDA: Resistance and Resilience Episode 7, Creative Resistance, with Marni Kammersell, Chris Wells, and guest Mattia Maurée* Caitlin Hughes from the Divergent Dialogues Podcast* Connect with us* Positive Disintegration on Substack* Visit the Dabrowski Center website* Facebook* Instagram* The Positive Disintegration YouTube Channel* Adults with Overexcitabilities group on Facebook* The Tragic Gift blog by Emma* Email us at positivedisintegration.pod@gmail.com* Please consider donating to the Dabrowski Center, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit.* Find Positive Disintegration MerchIf you enjoyed this episode on Apple or Spotify, please remember to click on the stars and leave a rating or write a review. Thank you! This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.positivedisintegration.org/subscribe

Struggling with social silence, freezing in conversations, or feeling like an 'observer' as an autistic/AuDHD/ADHD adult?

This January I'm not making resolutions, I'm making space in my life. In this episode, I talk about what happened when I realized my 2025 ideas weren't sustainable, why I canceled projects I'd been grinding on for months, how I'm re-thinking my goal-setting and as an AuDHD human, what I refuse to carry into 2026. To listen to this episode without ads, try the ad-free version (of all episode) on Patreon for 7 days just by clicking here.  Show Notes My podcast webpage is another place to listen, along with an easy-to-read blog that expands on ADHD/AuDHD topics from the show — with pins you can save to Pinterest. Join Jen's Accountability Club! A highly interactive monthly membership where you meet with me live every week for accountability, body-double sessions, journaling, and monthly Q&A. It's designed for ADHD/AuDHD brains that need connection and support taking action — so you're not doing it all alone. Membership is $19.99/month, with an annual option currently available at 31% off (that's over three months free) with code 2AD87. Offer expires 2/1/26. Brain.fm — A Focus Tool I Use Every Day It's not music, or binaural beats. Brain.fm is science-backed sound made for ADHD brains and it's genius! I listen while I work and I can feel my brain lock in, no distractions. I want you to try it for 30 days free, with my link! No catch. Cancel anytime. Hugimals — Weighted Comfort for Kids & Adults I own Hugimals, give them as gifts, and love that they're made by a neurodivergent founder who understands nervous system needs. These weighted stuffed animals and pillows help with anxiety and overwhelm, and you can get 15% off anytime using my link and code JENKIRKMAN (it never expires). Appointed — Planners, Notebooks & Desk Goods Appointed notebooks are my go-to — I buy my spiral notebooks and Le Pen pens from them and use them daily for lists, journaling, and planning. You can get notebooks monogrammed and save 15% off with my link and code JENKIRKMAN. Bookshop.org — Books I Recommend I love Bookshop.org because every purchase supports independent bookstores, not Amazon, while still shipping directly to you. I've curated book lists on ADHD/AuDHD and mental health, and you can get 20% off everything when you shop using my link. UnHide — Soft, Weighted Comfort I love UnHide's products — their vegan weighted blankets, pillows, robes, and socks are incredibly soft and calming, especially if you're neurodivergent and soothed by gentle weight and cozy textures. You can get 20% off with my link and code JEN20. The Time Timer - a Cute Visual Time Tool! I use my Time Timer every single day. I have a pink one from the MOD collection. I use it to help me visualize time during work blocks, breaks, and completing tasks. There's no discount, but when you use my link I earn a percentage that goes directly into supporting this podcast.

Resolutions and goals can be fun ... but for highly sensitive and neurodivergent folk, they can also be another source of self-criticism when we find ourselves dropping them days after they've been set. So, what's the alternative? In this episode of SelfKind, a podcast for Highly Sensitive People, I'm sharing what I'm doing instead of making a list of resolutions for the new year. As a highly sensitive, neurodivergent woman who's kinda tired, I'm approaching this one differently by turning towards my values first. New Year marketing can be so deeply overwhelming and shaming. Let's do it differently, yeah? You'll hear: 

Crushed by life's boulders—trauma, overwhelm, or self-doubt as an autistic/AuDHD/ADHD young adult?

So excited to share this episode this week!! Today we're talking about how to use the scientific method as a framework to better understand your ADHD brain and your needs! This is how we can conduct experiments, try new things, and implement changes to gather lived-experience data on what *actually* works for us, what *actually* helps us. And the best part—with experimenting, there's no failure. Only data! Every experiment is an opportunity to learn more about how your brain works, and we get to integrate and re-iterate on experiments by using that information. This means that even if an experiment doesn't go the way we planned, it's still a win! 

Battling chronic inflammation, gut chaos, or sleep sabotage as an autistic/AuDHD/ADHD young adult?

In this episode, Ben sits down with bestselling author, psychologist and behaviour change expert Shahroo Izadi for a deep, honest conversation about ADHD, addiction and how habits really form.Diagnosed with ADHD later in life, Shahroo reflects on how years spent working in addiction services helped her make sense of her own impulsivity, shame cycles and coping strategies - long before she had the language for neurodivergence. Together, Ben and Shahroo unpack why addiction is often misunderstood, how neurodivergent brains are especially vulnerable in a frictionless modern world, and why behaviour change isn't about willpower or fixing yourself.This is a compassionate, practical conversation about trust, self-belief and designing habits that work with your brain - not against it.Join us at hidden20.org/donate.________Host: Ben BransonProduction Manager: Phoebe De LeiburnéVideo Editor: James ScrivenSocial Media Manager: Charlie YoungMusic: Jackson GreenbergHead of Marketing: Kristen Fuller00:00 Introduction01:26 Shahroo Izadi's ADHD Diagnosis & Personal Journey08:12 ADHD, Neurodivergence & Addiction: What's the Link?11:44 Is Addiction a Disease — or a Coping Strategy?13:04 Why Willpower Fails: Understanding Habit Formation16:50 ADHD vs Autism: Impulsivity, Dopamine & Delayed Reward19:08 ADHD & Addiction: Shahroo's Framework for Sustainable Change29:18 Trusting an ADHD Brain After Years of Self-Criticism33:33 Applying Behavioural Psychology to Living With ADHD36:15 The ADHD Tax: Shame, Avoidance & Hidden Costs39:25 External Dependence, Coping Mechanisms & Control42:03 Shahroo's 3 Practical Tips for Lasting Behaviour Change52:13 Ben on Addiction & Recovery: Choice Without Deprivation58:47 What We Still Get Wrong About Addiction & Neurodivergence1:02:02 Healthy Habits vs Addiction: Where's the Line?1:07:21 Addiction, ADHD & Autism: What Needs to Change Systemically1:15:20 Shahroo's Green Dot BadgeThe Hidden 20% is a charity founded by AuDHD entrepreneur, Ben Branson.Our mission is simple: To change how the world sees neurodivergence.No more stigma. No more shame. No more silence.1 in 5 people are neurodivergent. That's 1.6 billion of us - yet too many are still excluded, misunderstood, or left without support.To break the cycle, we amplify voices, challenge myths, and keep showing up. Spotlighting stories, stats and hard truths. Smashing stereotypes through honest voices, creative campaigns and research that can't be ignored.Every month, over 50,000 people turn to The Hidden 20% to feel safe, seen and to learn about brilliant brains.With your support, we can reach further, grow louder, and keep fighting for the 1 in 5 who deserve more.Join us at hidden20.org/donate.Become a monthly donor.Be part of our community where great minds think differently.Brought to you by charity The Hidden 20% #1203348______________Follow & subscribe…Website: www.hidden20.orgInstagram / TikTok / Youtube / X: @Hidden20charityBen Branson @seedlip_benShahroo Izadi @shahroo_izadi www.shahrooizadi.co.ukIf you'd like to support The Hidden 20%, you can buy a "green dot" badge at https://www.hidden20.org/thegreendot/p/badge. All proceeds go to the charity. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Holidays: A Group Project My Nervous System Didn't Agree To In this New Year's episode, Patricia Young (she/her) explores why the holiday season can be especially challenging for autistic, ADHD, and AuDHD nervous systems. Through personal stories about gift giving, overstimulation, masking, PDA, rejection sensitivity, and the need for sameness and predictability, she unpacks how small changes and social expectations can quietly dysregulate neurodivergent people. The episode also includes updates on her purple hair and tattoo, reflections on attunement and fairness, and a gentle alternative to New Year's resolutions—offering practical categories for reflection that center self-compassion, regulation, and realistic support. WHAT YOU'LL HEAR IN THIS EPISODE · Why holidays are uniquely overstimulating for neurodivergent nervous systems · How transitions, visitors, and disrupted routines impact regulation · The role of predictability, sameness, and visual memory in autistic well-being · Why gift giving can activate PDA, executive dysfunction, and shame · How attunement in gift giving can feel deeply regulating—and deeply stressful · The pressure to perform gratitude and enthusiasm while masking discomfort · Why opening gifts in front of others can be overwhelming for autistic adults · How fairness, justice sensitivity, and reciprocity complicate holiday dynamics · The emotional labor involved in "doing it right" socially · How body doubling supports assertiveness and nervous system regulation · Why small environmental changes can create disproportionate stress · The difference between order as regulation versus control · How animals, sensory joy, and flexibility can increase tolerance for chaos · Reflections on regret, learning, and doing things differently over time · Why curiosity and problem-solving are often misunderstood in autistic communication · How rejection sensitivity and object permanence affect relationships · A compassionate alternative to New Year's resolutions · Reflective life categories including health, finances, relationships, self-care, creativity, home, and novelty · Why survival mode is sometimes the only valid goal · A reminder that sensitivity is wiring—not a flaw   SOUND BITES ·       "Our nervous systems really do best with sameness, repetition, and predictability." ·       "Masking is all about making other people feel comfortable—and that's a lot of work." ·       "Regret doesn't mean you did something wrong. It means you're learning." ·       "You have a right to be regulated, dysregulated, organized, disorganized, content, or discontent." SENSITIVITY IS NOTHING TO APOLOGIZE FOR; IT'S HOW YOUR BRAIN IS WIRED You are not broken. You were shaped by systems that weren't built for you. You deserve rest, joy, and support exactly as you are. CHAPTERS (PLEASE ALLOW FOR ADDITION OF INTRO) 00:00 Navigating Holiday Challenges 10:06 The Complexity of Gift Giving 20:39 Reflections on Relationships and Expectations 29:26 Looking Ahead: New Year Reflections PODCAST HOST Patricia Young (she/her) was a Licensed Clinical Social Worker for over 17 years, but she is now exclusively providing coaching. She knows what it's like to feel like an outcast, misfit, and truthteller.  Learning about the trait of being a Highly Sensitive Person (HSP), then learning she is AuDHD with a PDA profile, OCD and RSD, helped Patricia rewrite her history with a deeper understanding, appreciation, and a sense of self-compassion.  She created the podcasts Unapologetically Sensitive and Unapologetically AuDHD to help other neurodivergent folks know that they aren't alone, and that having a brain that is wired differently comes with amazing gifts, and some challenges.  Patricia works online globally working individually with people, and she teaches Online Courses for neurodivergent folks that focus on understanding what it means to be a sensitive neurodivergent. Topics covered include: self-care, self-compassion, boundaries, perfectionism, mindfulness, communication, and creating a lifestyle that honors you Patricia's website, podcast episodes and more: www.unapologeticallysensitive.com  LINKS  To write a review in itunes: click on this link https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/unapologetically-sensitive/id1440433481?mt=2 select "listen on Apple Podcasts" chose "open in itunes" choose "ratings and reviews" click to rate the number of starts click "write a review" Website--www.unapologeticallysensitive.com Facebook-- https://www.facebook.com/Unapologetically-Sensitive-2296688923985657/ Closed/Private Facebook group Unapologetically Sensitive-- https://www.facebook.com/groups/2099705880047619/ Instagram-- https://www.instagram.com/unapologeticallysensitive/ Youtube-- https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCOE6fodj7RBdO3Iw0NrAllg/videos?view_as=subscriber Tik Tok--https://www.tiktok.com/@unapologeticallysensitiv Unapologetically AuDHD Podcast-- https://unapologeticallysensitive.com/unapologeticallyaudhd/ e-mail-- unapologeticallysensitive@gmail.com Show hashtag--#unapologeticallysensitive Music-- Gravel Dance by Andy Robinson www.andyrobinson.com  

Dr Khurram is a world renowned, award-winning psychiatrist and author of Explaining AuDHD. He's here to explain what AuDHD really feels like, how to spot the signs of AuDHD and how to thrive with AuDHD. Chapters: 00:00 Trailer 01:31 Is Autism a friend to ADHD? 03:14 The confusing nature of AuDHD 05:02 What makes sense after AuDHD diagnosis 07:15 Dr Khurram's AuDHD mission 09:39 What AuDHD actually is 15:40 The signs of AuDHD 20:24 What AuDHD looks like from the outside 22:49 What AuDHD perfectionism looks like 25:11 The risks of undiagnosed AuDHD 27:36 Tiimo advert 28:47 Is AuDHD a lonely experience 30:28 How ADHD masks the autism 33:41 Post AuDHD diagnosis emotions 45:27 The link between AuDHD and mental health 47:13 When is an AuDHD person happiest 49:08 The importance of early understanding in kids 50:39 Khurram's AuDHD item 52:56 Audience questions 55:53 A letter to my younger self Dr Khurram on LinkedIn

What happens when hunger feels like a demand, and demands feel like threats?In this episode, Allyson Ford, MA, LPCC (@bodyjustice.therapist) is joined by Livia (@livlabelfree) for a neurodivergent-affirming conversation about PDA and eating disorders. While PDA is often labeled “Pathological Demand Avoidance,” the neurodiversity affirming movement invites a different frame: Persistent Drive for Autonomy: a nervous-system response rooted in the need for safety and agency.Together, we talk about:Why standard eating disorder treatment can mirror ED rigidity (protocol over person)How being labeled “defiant” or “treatment resistant” can miss the real need underneathReframing “control” as safety and survival adaptationWhy “recovery” can feel vague, pressurized, or even coercive; and how “discovery” offers a more spacious alternativeWhat affirming care can look like for PDA-ers with eating disordersFind Livia's work: @livlabelfree | livlabelfree.comConnect with Allyson: @bodyjustice.therapistDisclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only and does not provide individual therapeutic, psychological, or medical advice. For personalized support, please consult a qualified licensed professional.

SelfKind is entering its 7th year in 2026! That's a lot of podcasts (323 and counting!). So it's time for a reintroduction of me, your Highly Sensitive AuDHD host. How did I get here? And who is this podcast for? You'll hear:

Ever feel stuck in survival mode—chasing goals that don't feel like yours, battling imposter syndrome, or questioning your worth as an autistic/AuDHD/ADHD young adult?

It's New Year's Day and I AM TIRED, FAM. I really wanted to share this idea & framework I'm so excited about on experimental frameworks & using the scientific method to better understand your brain & your needs, but I hit a wall in the middle of this episode, which was already a capacity-aligned pivot from that—and I realized I need to end this recording early to go take care of myself. This episode is my own documentation of the win of making a visit, giving myself the chance to see how I felt recording, and realizing from that lived-experience data that my answer is a genuine & authentic 'no' for today. I'll catch up with you more in the next few weeks! 

As another year closes, we're taking a gentler approach to New Year's thinking. In this special episode, Ben is joined by familiar voices from across the year and a hint of who's to come in 2026 - as he sits down with clinicians, creators, advocates and friends of The Hidden 20% to talk about goals, not resolutions.From Dr Renata Fialho to Shahroo Izadi, Céin McGillicuddy, Dr Alison Lennox, Dr Josephine Neale and Tony Lloyd, each guest reflects on what they're carrying forward into 2026 and what they're intentionally leaving behind.Together, we unpack why “resolutions” can feel loaded, deficit-focused and unrealistic for neurodivergent brains, and why goals rooted in compassion, flexibility and self-trust tend to work better.This is a calm, grounding end-of-year listen - focused less on fixing yourself, and more on meeting yourself where you are.From all of us at The Hidden 20%, thank you for your support this year - we'll see you in 2026.

Our Refocus series rewinds the moments too good to miss. Short takes. Big takeaways. No attention span required.To celebrate Christmas 2025, we rewind to Carrie and David Grant talking about life post-diagnosis for Carrie, neurodivergent parenting, unmasking as a family, and how letting go of Christmas pressure can transform life for neurodivergent children and their parents.Join us at hidden20.org/donate.________Host: Ben BransonProduction Manager: Phoebe De LeiburnéVideo Editor: James ScrivenSocial Media Manager: Charlie YoungMusic: Jackson GreenbergHead of Marketing: Kristen FullerThe Hidden 20% is a charity founded by AuDHD entrepreneur, Ben Branson.Our mission is simple: To change how the world sees neurodivergence.No more stigma. No more shame. No more silence.1 in 5 people are neurodivergent. That's 1.6 billion of us - yet too many are still excluded, misunderstood, or left without support.To break the cycle, we amplify voices, challenge myths, and keep showing up. Spotlighting stories, stats and hard truths. Smashing stereotypes through honest voices, creative campaigns and research that can't be ignored.Every month, over 50,000 people turn to The Hidden 20% to feel safe, seen and to learn about brilliant brains.With your support, we can reach further, grow louder, and keep fighting for the 1 in 5 who deserve more.Join us at hidden20.org/donate.Become a monthly donor.Be part of our community where great minds think differently.Brought to you by charity The Hidden 20% #1203348______________Follow & subscribe…Website: www.hidden20.orgInstagram / TikTok / Youtube / X: @Hidden20charityBen Branson @seedlip_benCarrie Grant @carriegrantsaysDavid Grant @davidgrantsays_If you'd like to support The Hidden 20%, you can buy a "green dot" badge at https://www.hidden20.org/thegreendot/p/badge. All proceeds go to the charity. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Bold Moves: Purple Hair, a Tattoo, and No Take-Backs Patricia (she/her) reflects on what it really means to make bold moves—and how we talk to ourselves when those decisions don't land the way we hoped. Through the very real experiences of dyeing her hair purple for the first time and getting a tattoo she isn't sure she likes, she explores autistic decision-making, sensory overwhelm, masking, regret, and self-compassion. This episode is about reframing regret as information, honoring neurodivergent needs in the moment, and learning how to be kinder to ourselves when we take risks and feel unsure afterward. WHAT YOU'LL HEAR IN THIS EPISODE ·  End-of-year reflection: How has this year been, and what are we carrying into the next one? · The desire to make bold moves—and the fear that often comes with them · Deciding to dye hair purple for the first time · Letting excitement, doubt, and second-guessing coexist · Experiencing a deeply neurodivergent-affirming salon appointment · The importance of predictability, process explanations, and bodily autonomy · Getting over-hungry, tech issues, and how small barriers can cascade into overwhelm · Allowing a meltdown in a safe space instead of masking through it · Not knowing immediately whether you like something—and the pressure to perform enthusiasm · Scheduling a tattoo the very next day as another bold move · Sensory overload, unexpected pain, and difficulty advocating in the moment · Masking through physical pain and being praised for "doing great" · Immediate tattoo regret and the awareness of permanence · Naming regret without spiraling into shame or self-blame · Reframing regret as data, not a moral failure · Disconnecting from the body temporarily as a coping strategy · How rigid rules around food, ownership, and permission show up in autistic lives · The power of communicating needs instead of carrying silent embarrassment · Challenging the belief that we must always make the "right" decision · Ending with reminders about gentleness, lowered expectations, and honoring sensitivity SOUND BITES · "The goal was to make bold moves—and I did." · "It's okay to have regrets. That doesn't mean I did something wrong." · "I allowed myself to feel what I was feeling instead of masking and falling apart later." · "What we tell ourselves about our experiences matters more than the experience itself." · "Sensitivity is nothing to apologize for. It's how your brain is wired." SENSITIVITY IS NOTHING TO APOLOGIZE FOR; IT'S HOW YOUR BRAIN IS WIRED You are not broken. You were shaped by systems that weren't built for you. You deserve rest, joy, and support exactly as you are. PODCAST HOST Patricia Young (she/her) was a Licensed Clinical Social Worker for over 17 years, but she is now exclusively providing coaching. She knows what it's like to feel like an outcast, misfit, and truthteller.  Learning about the trait of being a Highly Sensitive Person (HSP), then learning she is AuDHD with a PDA profile, OCD and RSD, helped Patricia rewrite her history with a deeper understanding, appreciation, and a sense of self-compassion.  She created the podcasts Unapologetically Sensitive and Unapologetically AuDHD to help other neurodivergent folks know that they aren't alone, and that having a brain that is wired differently comes with amazing gifts, and some challenges.  Patricia works online globally working individually with people, and she teaches Online Courses for neurodivergent folks that focus on understanding what it means to be a sensitive neurodivergent. Topics covered include: self-care, self-compassion, boundaries, perfectionism, mindfulness, communication, and creating a lifestyle that honors you Patricia's website, podcast episodes and more: www.unapologeticallysensitive.com  LINKS  To write a review in itunes: click on this link https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/unapologetically-sensitive/id1440433481?mt=2 select "listen on Apple Podcasts" chose "open in itunes" choose "ratings and reviews" click to rate the number of starts click "write a review" Website--www.unapologeticallysensitive.com Facebook-- https://www.facebook.com/Unapologetically-Sensitive-2296688923985657/ Closed/Private Facebook group Unapologetically Sensitive-- https://www.facebook.com/groups/2099705880047619/ Instagram-- https://www.instagram.com/unapologeticallysensitive/ Youtube-- https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCOE6fodj7RBdO3Iw0NrAllg/videos?view_as=subscriber Tik Tok--https://www.tiktok.com/@unapologeticallysensitiv Unapologetically AuDHD Podcast-- https://unapologeticallysensitive.com/unapologeticallyaudhd/ e-mail-- unapologeticallysensitive@gmail.com Show hashtag--#unapologeticallysensitive Music-- Gravel Dance by Andy Robinson www.andyrobinson.com  

Sharing in this episode about how I'm coming back to center after a season of travel & routine disruptions, and how I'm noticing ADHD medication is changing my creative process—a lot of grief here for me at the change, but I'm trying some new experiments to see if there are other systems and supports I need to help me with my creativity on meds!

AuDHD leadership touches on last week's interview with Dr Megan Anna Neff. And it goes beyond the visible leadership of creating content, or being in the public eye.AuDHD leadership can includebeing your authentic selfvisibly meeting your sensory needssharing what helps you (whether or not it's advice)Mentioned in episode:- Do Less program for 2026 (starts Jan 15, reach out by Jan 7)Email mattia@mattiamauree.com with application answers, and/or any questions- Blog post with business episodesAuDHD Flourishing resources:Transcript Doc (often a few weeks behind, but we do catch up!)Mattia's NewsletterLike Your Brain community space (Patreon/Discord) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We spent Part 1 of Burnout Revisited getting you all riled up, now we're back with some practical solutions for pulling yourself out of the slog.   In Part 2, Kristin is sharing the strategies she's found helpful for tackling her own personal burnout. Strategies such as being vulnerable enough to ask for help, body doubling for tasks you hate, keeping your meat suit fed by any means necessary, putting your parents to work, getting into action to help others, and, if all else fails, playing a fun game of What Will Kill Me First? to prioritize your needs.   AuDHD burnout isn't a simple fix, but the more you can accept and accommodate your neurodivergent needs, stop being the only supporting beam, and start being gentler with yourself, the better your brain and body will feel.  Resources Roseate Spoonbill: Habitat, Behavior, and More | AnimalGator Roseate spoonbill call   Visit our website: weirdsofafeather.com  Follow us on TikTok: @weirdsofafeather Watch full-length episodes on Youtube: youtube.com/@weirdsofafeather Join our Reddit community: reddit.com/r/WeirdsofaFeather/ Find us on Instagram: @weirdsofafeather  Become a Patreon member for bonus content: patreon.com/weirdsofafeather 

Rest can feel confusing, uncomfortable, or even stressful when you're neurodivergent. In this episode, I talk about how rest shows up differently for ADHD, autistic, and AuDHD brains, why typical advice doesn't always work, and how to stop treating rest like a reward. I walk through the difference between rest and isolation, how to rest with people, and offer 27 quick, micro break ideas. If rest makes you feel guilty, or restless, I hope this episode will help you rethink what rest can look like on your terms. Show Notes: Click to Get Jen's Free Guide How To R.I.D.E Out Panic Attacks Click to Get On The Waitlist For Jen's Panic Course Feb 2026 Jen's Monthly Action Club Just $19.99 You Are A Lot Podcast On Patreon 7 Day Free Trial You Are A Lot Podcast Website & Blog Follow Jen's ADHD/AuDHD Tips on Pinterest Jen's Every 10 Day Newsletter: "This Is A Lot" "You Are A Lot" Black Tote Bag "You Are A Lot" coffee mug & travel mug "You Are A Lot" black long-sleeved tee 30 FREE DAYS to BRAIN FM Wire Your Brain For Focus! Jen's Bookshop.org Gift Guide (books, bags, games, more) 20% Off Jen's Sensory Seeking Gift Guide From Kitsch 15% Discount Send an email to the podcast at alotadhdpod at gmail dot com Sources Used: The Power of Micro Breaks For Well-Being 7 Types of Rest How Sleep Affects Your Immune System Rest Is Resistance The Nap Ministry Laziness Does Not Exist 20% Off  

Keeping it Real During the Holidays: p.s. I Love the Grinch! Patricia (she/her) dives into the emotional and sensory whirlwind of navigating change as an AuDHDer during the holiday season. She unpacks the exhaustion that comes from shifting family dynamics, unpredictable routines, kitten chaos, people coming and going, and the desire to show up with more capacity than she actually has. Patricia speaks candidly about shutdowns, resentment, communication misfires and boundary-setting. This episode invites listeners to honor their own wiring, acknowledge their limits, and give themselves permission to navigate change on their own terms—especially when the world is loud, messy, and demanding far too much. WHAT YOU'LL HEAR IN THIS EPISODE ·   The emotional weight of constant change during the holidays ·  Why autistic and AuDHD nervous systems struggle with unpredictability ·  How people coming and going can destabilize daily rhythms ·  Sensory overwhelm from decorations, noise, and social expectations ·  The shutdown mode that follows too much "peopling" ·  Resentment that canform when needs aren't communicated directly ·  That awkward dance between wanting to show up and feeling over capacity ·  Kitten chaos as both joy and sensory overload ·  Feeling responsible for everyone's experience (hello, people-pleasing!) ·  The grief of not feeling safe to voice your values or boundaries ·  Family conflict and the ripple effects on your emotional regulation ·  Why inconsistency can be draining for some neurodivergent brains ·  The need for predictability, routines, and familiar sensory anchors ·  Internalized pressure to be "easygoing," especially around holidays ·  The truth-telling wisdom of the body when burnout hits ·  "Harvest feast" (aka Thanksgiving) recovery mode ·  Observing subtle family dynamics that others overlook ·  Using pacing and gentle self-compassion to navigate the season ·  How even positive changes can be dysregulating ·  The reminder that honoring your limits is an act of self-love SOUND BITES ·  "Change really affects me. I overdid it, and now my body is telling the truth." ·  "Even things that you enjoy can be dysregulating and overwhelming." ·  "If someone could respond differently, they would—we're not choosing to have difficulty with change." ·  "Inconsistency is very difficult for me; it's not about the tree, it's about the mismatch." ·  "I think what I call depression is really resentment for not being direct." SENSITIVITY IS NOTHING TO APOLOGIZE FOR; IT'S HOW YOUR BRAIN IS WIRED You are not broken. You were shaped by systems that weren't built for you. You deserve rest, joy, and support exactly as you are. PODCAST HOST Patricia Young (she/her) was a Licensed Clinical Social Worker for over 17 years, but she is now exclusively providing coaching. She knows what it's like to feel like an outcast, misfit, and truthteller.  Learning about the trait of being a Highly Sensitive Person (HSP), then learning she is AuDHD with a PDA profile, OCD and RSD, helped Patricia rewrite her history with a deeper understanding, appreciation, and a sense of self-compassion.  She created the podcasts Unapologetically Sensitive and Unapologetically AuDHD to help other neurodivergent folks know that they aren't alone, and that having a brain that is wired differently comes with amazing gifts, and some challenges.  Patricia works online globally working individually with people, and she teaches Online Courses for neurodivergent folks that focus on understanding what it means to be a sensitive neurodivergent. Topics covered include: self-care, self-compassion, boundaries, perfectionism, mindfulness, communication, and creating a lifestyle that honors you Patricia's website, podcast episodes and more: www.unapologeticallysensitive.com LINKS  To write a review in itunes: click on this link https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/unapologetically-sensitive/id1440433481?mt=2 select "listen on Apple Podcasts" chose "open in itunes" choose "ratings and reviews" click to rate the number of starts click "write a review" Website--www.unapologeticallysensitive.com Facebook-- https://www.facebook.com/Unapologetically-Sensitive-2296688923985657/ Closed/Private Facebook group Unapologetically Sensitive-- https://www.facebook.com/groups/2099705880047619/ Instagram-- https://www.instagram.com/unapologeticallysensitive/ Youtube-- https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCOE6fodj7RBdO3Iw0NrAllg/videos?view_as=subscriber Tik Tok--https://www.tiktok.com/@unapologeticallysensitiv Unapologetically AuDHD Podcast-- https://unapologeticallysensitive.com/unapologeticallyaudhd/ e-mail-- unapologeticallysensitive@gmail.com Show hashtag--#unapologeticallysensitive Music-- Gravel Dance by Andy Robinson www.andyrobinson.com