Neologism used to refer to neurological differences in a non-pathological manner
POPULARITY
Categories
Meghan Logan is a Lead Product Designer at Stripe, and her work sits at the intersection of systems thinking, systems architecture, product strategy, and neurodiverse thinking. She also speaks at conferences about how design frameworks can better support neurodivergent brains and create safer, more effective ways of working. In this episode of the podcast, Sophia and Meghan talk about Meghan's ADHD diagnosis and the masking that so many neurodivergent designers experience at work, why OOUX and ORCA can feel like such a safe and clarifying framework for ambiguous design problems, and how structured systems thinking can help designers communicate better, reduce bias, and create more inclusive products.LINKS: Register for The UX Level Up LiveConnect with Meghan on LinkedInCheck out Meghan's Medium! Listen to Meghan's TalkPodcast with Karen Hewell on applying OOUX to your own inner worldContinue the conversation in the forum!
This week, Emily welcomes Kyrus Keenan Westcott, the creator behind The Vibe with Ky. Ky is an ADHD/neurodiversity advocate, host, and theatrical director who uses his massive platform to validate the neurodivergent experience with humor and radical honesty. In this episode, Ky opens up about his ADHD diagnosis at age 34 and the subsequent journey through anger, mourning, and eventual acceptance. They talk about the fluctuating capacity of the ADHD brain, why we can build a website in a day but struggle to get off the couch the next, and why the Western 9-to-5 ideology often fails neurodivergent people. From managing Delayed Sleep Phase Syndrome to the true definition of introversion, this conversation is all about giving yourself grace as you navigate a world that wasn't built for your brain. TAKEAWAYS Adult diagnosis often triggers a transition from anger and mourning to self-forgiveness. Task initiation is a neurological barrier, not a character flaw, and understanding the chemical basis of ADHD helps dismantle the "lazy" label. Neurodivergent fluctuating capacity means your best effort looks different from one day to the next, based on environment, health, and brain chemistry. Introversion is defined by energy replenishment and selectivity, not shyness. An introvert can be the "belle of the ball" when the topic and environment align with their interests. Environmental hacks, like keeping your phone out of the bedroom, can serve as a physical bridge to overcome task initiation struggles in the morning. Mental health professionals, join us for our upcoming training, Interpreting Autism Assessment Data in High-Masking and Under-Identified Presentations. Dr. Taylor Day is the presenter, and it will be held Friday, April 3 at 2:00 PM Eastern. If you can't make it live, the recorded self-study version will be available shortly after the live event. It's approved for both APA and NBCC continuing ed hours. You can register here. Kyrus Keenan Westcott is a content creator, mental health advocate, and digital marketing strategist based in the Greater Philadelphia area. He is the founder of The Vibe With Ky, a digital platform that uses humor, honesty, and real-life storytelling to make conversations about ADHD, anxiety, and mental health more approachable and relatable. Diagnosed in adulthood with ADHD (Inattentive Type), Major Depressive Disorder, and Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Kyrus blends lived experience with a refreshingly candid voice, offering validation without toxic positivity. Outside of his advocacy work, he's a Senior Paid Media Strategist with over 20 years of experience and an accomplished theater performer and director. Whether he's creating viral content or chasing a 3 AM burst of inspiration, Kyrus is all about keeping it real and helping others feel seen. BACKGROUND READING Ky's website, Instagram, Tiktok, Facebook, YouTube, Ky's most popular video The Neurodiversity Podcast is on Facebook, Instagram, BlueSky, and you're invited to join our Facebook Group. For more information go to www.NeurodiversityPodcast.com. If you'd like members of your organization, school district, or company to know more about the subjects discussed on our podcast, Emily Kircher-Morris provides keynote addresses, workshops, and training sessions worldwide, in-person or virtually. You can choose from a list of established presentations, or work with Emily to develop a custom talk to fit your unique situation. To learn more, visit our website.
We are so happy to have Dr. Elina Veytsman join us for this episode of the show! Dr. Elina Veytsman is a licensed psychologist and the Director of Training at the UCLA PEERS® Clinic, where she leads groups for neurodivergent youth and their caregivers while also training interns, postdocs, and professionals. She earned her Psychology degrees at UCLA and UC Riverside, researching developmental disabilities and transition experiences for youth and parents, and completed her doctoral internship providing therapy, parent training, and diagnostic assessment services. Since joining the UCLA PEERS® Clinic in 2014, she has delivered the PEERS® program in multiple settings and also provides individualized PEERS services through a private practice in Los Angeles. Dr. Elina Veytsman joins us to discuss how we help neurodivergent teens and young adults explore dating in ways that are both safe and authentic to who they are. We unpack the importance of supporting relationship development for neurodivergent youth without removing their agency or individuality, and we start off by unpacking a common misconception - that autistic or neurodivergent youth are not interested in romantic relationships. In reality, many deeply want connection but may not have been given clear, explicit guidance about the social patterns that others often learn more informally. Our conversation in this episode explores how dating skills are teachable rather than innate, and Dr. Veytsman explains that social skills such as reciprocal conversation, recognizing romantic interest, understanding boundaries, and processing rejection can be broken into concrete, observable steps. Much of the work that she discusses is grounded in research and sociological observation, with more than 75 scientific papers supporting PEERS® programming. This episode of the podcast also touches upon how social cognition, perspective-taking, and communication differences can affect dating experiences. Safety and vulnerability are also major themes that we talk about, and we discuss risks such as online exploitation, misreading friendliness as romantic interest, and the challenge of recognizing subtle social cues. Dr. Veytsman highlights that vulnerability often comes from inexperience rather than neurodivergence itself and that education about red flags, consent, and online behavior can be very protective! Our discussion also highlights the strengths-based philosophy behind PEERS®. Rather than changing identity or forcing conformity, the program focuses on expanding communication tools, building confidence, and supporting young people as they pursue relationships that feel meaningful to them. If you are a parent, clinician, or someone interested in how neurodivergent youth can approach dating with confidence and safety, then this episode is not one that you will want to miss! Show Notes: [2:44] - Dr. Veytsman explains how romantic skills often begin in adolescence, starting with friendship and learning conversation, boundaries, and recognizing shared interests. [5:24] - Dating challenges could include one-sided conversations, so the program first teaches reciprocal communication before introducing relationship-specific skills. [7:10] - Dr. Veytsman discusses how limited peer learning and social cue misunderstanding can increase vulnerability to online exploitation. [10:23] - Hear how perspective-taking and social cognition can be strengthened like a muscle with structured practice of social thinking and empathy skills. [12:20] - Early training in communication, risk awareness, and perception helps build meaningful relationships by improving social understanding and behavior awareness. [13:42] - Vulnerability often arises from limited experience; explicit education helps youth recognize manipulation, red flags, and online safety risks. [16:41] - The PEERS® program is a strengths-based, neurodiversity-respecting, and skill-building dating / social development program for neurodivergent youth! [17:11] - Preparation, coaching, and education help autistic youth build healthy relationships via learning consent, rejection, safety, and partner recognition. [19:21] - We learn that approximately 70% of participants involve parents learning to coach social skills while respecting individuals' goals. [22:52] - Hear how the program truly promotes neurodiversity, teaches social tools for connection, and encourages personal choice rather than masking. [25:16] - Dating education covers rejection, boundaries, consent, and flirting as observable, research-grounded behaviors. [27:59] - We further learn how flirting and interest are taught via low-risk signals such as eye contact, smiles, and reciprocal conversation exchanges. [30:44] - Hear why online profiles should present clear, positive, authentic information and use profile-specific messages to initiate meaningful contact. [33:13] - Caregivers can help reinforce skills with praise-based feedback, homework practice, and shared interest activities. [36:57] - Evidence shows that PEERS® improves dating behavior, confidence, social participation, and relationship skill use across research studies! [40:08] - How can Dr. Veytsman be contacted? Links and Related Resources: More Podcast Episodes Episode 43: Building Social Competence and Enhancing Social Skills with Dr. Elizabeth Laugeson Jane and Terry Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior - UCLA PEERS® Clinic Connect with Dr. Elina Veytsman: Center for Pediatric Neuropsychology Email: eveytsman@pediatricneuropsych.com Join Our Community: Substack
Ready to set your fee? You choose the dream, we'll do the math.
In this powerful conversation, Kate Loree and Sunny Megatron sit down with educator and former psychotherapist Dr. Kristina Kyser, a late-diagnosed AuDHD scholar whose work bridges trauma healing, neurodivergence, spirituality, and systems-level critique. Together they explore how our understanding of autism, ADHD, and nervous-system sensitivity cannot be separated from the larger cultural forces that shape them. Dr. Kyser challenges dominant ideas about “normality,” unpacking why the concept of normal may be one of the most harmful assumptions in modern psychology—and what becomes possible when we stop trying to fit ourselves inside it. The conversation moves through wide-ranging territory: the relationship between neurodivergence and colonial systems of power, what animist and Indigenous cosmologies can teach us about human difference, and why meaningful healing must weave together spirituality, social awareness, and nervous-system repair. Dr. Kyser also shares insights from her own journey of unmasking and slowing down, discussing how stepping outside roles of compliance, pleasing, and patriarchal conditioning can reconnect us with our deeper nature. Along the way, Kate and Sunny explore big questions about identity, rage, gaslighting, power structures, and the cultural “spells” that shape how we understand ourselves. This is a conversation about breaking inherited frameworks, reclaiming embodied truth, and imagining forms of healing that are relational, political, and deeply human. Here is Dr. Kristina Kyser's Bio: Somatic-Spiritual Educator & Neurodivergent Guide 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, Buddhist and animist practice, and systems-level critique. She creates initiatory spaces that blend science, soul, and lived neurodivergence in service of collective remembering and repair. And this is where you can find Dr. Kristina Kyser: https://www.instagram.com/kristina.kyser.phd/ https://www.tiktok.com/@kristina.kyser Book mentioned in this episode: Columbus and Other Cannibals by Jack D. Forbes How to find Sunny Megatron: Website: http://sunnymegatron.com Facebook http://facebook.com/sunnymegatron Twitter http://twitter.com/sunnymegatron Instagram http://instagram.com/sunnymegatron Tiktok https://www.tiktok.com/@sunnymegatron YouTube https://www.youtube.com/sunnymegatron American Sex Podcast https://open.spotify.com/show/2HroMhWJnyZbMSsOBKwBnk How to find Kate Loree: Website http://kateloree.com Instagram: http://instagram.com/opendeeplywithkateloree Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@opendeeplywithkateloree Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kateloreelmft Twitter http://twitter.com/kateloreelmft YouTube https://youtube.com/channel/UCSTFAqGYKW3sIUa0tKivbqQ Open Deeply podcast is not therapy or a replacement for therapy.
What if the reason your client is stuck is not a lack of motivation or clarity, but the way their executive functioning is wired? In this episode, we explore eight powerful lenses that can completely transform the way you coach neurodivergent clients and, in truth, the way you coach all clients. Executive functioning sits at the heart of how we plan, start, organise, regulate emotions, manage impulses and adapt to change. When we understand it, coaching becomes more inclusive, more compassionate and far more effective. We begin with a simple but important reframe. Executive functioning is not only relevant for clients who identify as neurodivergent. Many people remain undiagnosed, and every human being has a unique profile of strengths and challenges across these functions. When we bring this awareness into our practice, we move away from labelling behaviours as procrastination, lack of focus or resistance and instead start working with the real barrier. As we walk through each of the eight areas, we share how easily traditional coaching approaches can unintentionally create shame. Asking a client how to get motivated when the real challenge is task initiation creates a completely different experience from recognising what is actually happening in their brain. That moment of being seen and understood often unlocks progress faster than any strategy. We talk about organisation and the importance of helping clients design systems that work with their brain rather than forcing themselves into methods that were never built for them. We explore planning and prioritisation through the lens of demand avoidance and spontaneity, recognising that for some clients the plan itself is the obstacle. Working memory brings a powerful reflection on coaching style. Keeping questions simple, using visual anchors and contracting around how to hold the thread of the conversation makes coaching more accessible and more effective. Self monitoring and emotional regulation reveal the deep emotional impact of executive functioning challenges. Many clients carry a lifetime of self criticism without realising that what they are experiencing is a difference in processing rather than a personal failure. Coaching becomes a space for self acceptance as much as progress. Impulse control and flexible thinking invite us to move beyond deficit based models. Impulsivity can be a source of energy, creativity and connection. Rigidity often signals a need for safety. Our role is not to fix these traits but to help clients use their strengths and create support structures that allow them to thrive. Throughout this conversation, what stands out is that neurodivergent inclusive coaching is not about having the answers. It is about having the lens. When we understand executive functioning, we accelerate trust, deepen our coaching relationships and enable clients to achieve their goals in ways that are aligned with who they truly are. This is coaching that replaces judgement with curiosity, removes shame and gives clients practical levers for change. It is inclusive, ethical and deeply human. Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction to coaching neurodivergent clients through executive functioning 00:31 What executive functioning means in coaching 01:24 Inclusivity for diagnosed and undiagnosed clients 02:21 The executive functioning wheel as a coaching tool 04:18 Task initiation and removing the shame of procrastination 07:10 Organisation and creating brain aligned systems 08:59 Body doubling and in session action 10:24 Planning and prioritisation with demand avoidance 13:29 Working memory and adapting your coaching style 16:17 Practical ways to support working memory in sessions 16:46 Self monitoring and the emotional impact of over analysis 18:41 Emotional regulation and accessing resourceful states 22:55 Why emotions coaching and neurodivergent coaching fit together 23:25 Impulse control as strength and challenge 24:48 Moving beyond the imposter syndrome label 25:35 Flexible thinking and creating safety in change 27:52 Using strengths to support flexibility 28:47 Why executive functioning matters for all clients 29:17 How to continue your learning Key Lessons Learned: Executive functioning provides a powerful lens for inclusive coaching. Many behaviours labelled as procrastination or resistance are task initiation challenges. Brain aligned systems are more effective than forcing traditional productivity methods. Coaching style must adapt to support working memory and accessibility. Self compassion is a critical outcome of neurodivergent inclusive coaching. Impulsivity and flexibility can be strengths when understood and supported. Awareness of executive functioning accelerates trust and progress in coaching. Keywords: coaching neurodivergent clients, executive functioning in coaching, ADHD coaching strategies neurodivergent inclusive coaching, task initiation procrastination coaching, working memory coaching techniques, emotional regulation for neurodivergent clients, flexible thinking coaching strength based neurodiversity coaching, ICF neurodivergent coaching training, Links & Resources: Neurodivergent Inclusive Coaching programme: https://www.igcompany.com/nd
We're caught up! - to December - 2025. We beg the question, “What is time to a Neurodivergent?We finish up with the woman at the well, and her astonishing conversation with the Savior of the world.The importance of the eternal over the temporal.Mark 8:36“For what does it profit a man to gain the whole world, and forfeit his soul?“Therefore we do not lose heart, but though our outer man is decaying, yet our inner man is being renewed day by day. 17 For momentary, light affliction is producing for us an eternal weight of glory far beyond all comparison, 18 while we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen; for the things which are seen are temporal, but the things which are not seen are eternal.” 2 Corinthians 4:16-18“Therefore also we have as our ambition, whether at home or absent, to be pleasing to Him.” 2 Corinthians 5:9“But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness; and all these things shall be added to you.” Matthew 6:33The Holy Spirit gifts us each with the ability to help build up the church to be effective in the spread of the gospel. Not all are evangelists, but all have, as this Samaritan found, a testimony.Our So What?Whatever else we lack, we have our testimony. The woman at the well forgot her water and went to tell the people she had avoided before:“So the woman left her waterpot, and went into the city, and *said to the men, 29 “Come, see a man who told me all the things that I have done; this is not the Christ, is it?” John 4:28-29Or“Come and hear, all who fear God, And I will tell of what He has done for my soul.” Psalm 66:16“Now to the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only God, be honor and glory forever and ever. Amen.” Timothy 1:17Brethren, let's pray for one another, "What a man is on his knees before God, that he is and nothing more." Robert Murray M'Cheynee Donation link:https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=G9JGGR5W97D64Or go to www.freerangepreacheronprayer.com and use the Donations tab.Assistant Editor: Seven Jefferson Gossard.www.freerangepreacheronprayer.comfreerangeprayer@gmail.comFacebook - Free Range Preacher MinistriesInstagram: freerangeministriesAll our Scripture quotes are drawn from the NASB 1977 edition.For access to the voice-over services of Richard Durrington, please visit RichardDurrington.com or email him at Durringtonr@gmail.comOur podcast art was designed by @sammmmmmmmm23 on InstagramSeason 008Episode 016Nuts and Bolts begin at the 15:29 mark.
Forever Yours Betty returns to ADHDAF in far less happier circumstances but at least we are in this club together. Today is Mothers Day in the UK, which can be incredibly challenging for many reasons. Sheri/Betty and I lost our Mum's two months apart last year and decided to share our experiences to help others (who we wish weren't) in this terrible club know that they're not alone. Our intention for sharing this crucial conversation is also to help raise awareness about how ADHD and AuDHD can impact grief and vice versa, how Mother loss can impact our identity, the light that has helped us through the darkest of times, and to demonstrate the power of Peer Support. We are all in this together! This episode is dedicated to Sheri's Mum Mags, my Mum Jennifer, to all Mothers, to all who find today challenging, and to all of us in the Neurodivergent Dead Mums Club.MASSIVE TRIGGER WARNING: Contains swearing, loud laughter, gallows humour, some high pitched sounds, and mentions of very sensitive topics including; trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship and work struggles, mental health struggles, suicidal ideation, school struggles, bullying, greif, bereavement, Mother loss, violence against women, cancer, witnessing end of life, injustice, estrangement, infertility, pregnancy and child loss, identity crisis, weight and image struggles and suicide. If you are struggling, lo siento. YOU ARE NOT ALONE! Please REACH OUT FOR HELP HEREENORMOUS THANKS to the ABSOLUTELY LEGENDARY Sheri, until next year - sending you love today and always.As mentioned in the episode, you can...- Listen to Sheri's 2022 ADHDAF interview HERE- Listen to last years episode dedicated to my Mum: ADHD and Grief HERE - Find out more about ADHDAF+ Charity and our monthly in-person Peer Support Groups to connect and empower ADHD adults of marginalised genders in the latest Blog HERE- Find out more about Sheri's 'SILLY' shop in Margate HERE*If 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 @lauraisadhdafThank you SO MUCH for listening! We'd be so grateful if you could leave a comment/review/hit those stars so that others can be signposted to support and know that they're not alone.YOU ARE NOT ALONE.BIG LOVELaura & Forever Yours Betty x
What if the problem isn't your child—but the environment they're expected to learn in?In this episode, Cheryl talks with Corianda “Corey,” a homeschooling mom of six living in Spain, about raising neurodivergent kids and what happened when traditional school stopped working for her family. With three sons on the autism spectrum and experiences with ADHD, Corey began questioning whether the system was actually designed to help children like hers thrive.She shares how her family transitioned from the UK school system to homeschooling, how environment and freedom dramatically changed her children's confidence, and why self-directed learning can be especially powerful for neurodivergent kids. Cheryl and Corey also discuss worldschooling, socialization outside the classroom, learning to read when children are truly ready, and why giving kids agency over their time can unlock creativity and real-life skills.Today Corey runs a worldschooling community in Spain where homeschooling families gather to learn, explore, and grow together.If you're a homeschooling parent—or considering home education for a neurodivergent child—this conversation will open your mind to what's possible.Find Corey here: www.shepherdsrest.org Facebook: www.facebook.com/shepsrest Instagram: www.instagram.com/shepsrest
Struggling with social skills practice that actually feels natural? This week on the podcast, we're diving deep into practical, respectful ways to support our neurodivergent kiddos as they navigate friendships and social situations—without the cringe! From conversation entry points (aka scripts that don't turn our kids into social robots!) to playful, low-stakes role-playing at home, Colleen shares hands-on strategies to boost confidence and make socializing just a little easier for everyone involved. If "Just be yourself!" doesn't cut it in your house, you're not alone. Listen to this episode and help your kids build real-world connections, one conversation at a time. Key Takeaways: Scripts as Scaffolding, Not Life Sentences: Social scripts aren't rigid lines for kids to memorize forever. Instead, they serve as supportive "training wheels" to help neurodivergent kids enter, maintain, and exit conversations more naturally—reducing anxiety and offering footholds toward authentic communication. Practice Through Playful, Low-Stakes Moments: Avoid pressuring your child with public corrections or high-stakes rehearsal before social events. Instead, incorporate side-by-side role play, movie-pause coaching, and micro-practicing to gently build and reinforce social skills without making kids feel evaluated. Measure Progress by Initiative, Not Perfection: Success isn't about perfect eye contact or flawless conversation. Celebrate when your child initiates conversations, adapts their scripts into their own words, or asks to socialize again. These signs mean scripts are becoming real-world skills! Parenting and homeschooling neurodivergent kids is tough—but you're already doing amazing work just by showing up, learning, and supporting your child's unique journey. Links and Resources from Today's Episode Thank you to our sponsors: CTC Math – Flexible, affordable math for the whole family! Curiosity Post – A Snail Mail Club for kids – Real mail; Real life! The Learner's Lab – Online community for families homeschooling gifted/2e & neurodivergent kiddos! The Lab: An Online Community for Families Homeschooling Neurodivergent Kiddos The Homeschool Advantage: A Child-Focused Approach to Raising Lifelong Learners Raising Resilient Sons: A Boy Mom's Guide to Building a Strong, Confident, and Emotionally Intelligent Family The Anxiety Toolkit Sensory Strategy Toolkit | Quick Regulation Activities for Home Affirmation Cards for Anxious Kids Nurturing Neurodivergent Friendships: Practical Tips for Parents and Kids RLL #42: What It's Like to be Homeschooled with Best Friends Molly and Ella Teaching Kids About Being a Good Friend with Help From Great Books and Netflix Teaching Kids to Befriend Others 5 Tips for Helping Gifted Children Make Friends Navigating Sensory Overload: Actionable Strategies for Kids in Loud Environments The Not-So Friendly Friend: How to Set Boundaries for Healthy Friendships Social Skills Activities for Kids Growing Friendships: A Kids' Guide to Making and Keeping Friends Have You Filled a Bucket Today?: A Guide to Daily Happiness for Kids One Big Heart: A Celebration of Being More Alike than Different Life Skills for Kids: Unlocking a World of Possibilities through Friendship, Decision-Making, Cooking, Achieving a Success Mindset, Time-Management, Budgeting, and More Empathy Workbook for Kids: 50 Activities to Learn About Kindness, Compassion, and Other People's Feelings
Hey friend, Do you ever feel grief, frustration, or helplessness while raising your neurodivergent child but aren't sure how to process those emotions? Have you noticed that emotional stress from parenting can slowly turn into chronic stress or burnout symptoms? Do you ever feel like you're carrying a lot emotionally but rarely have space to sort through those feelings? I'm Ashley — a mom living with chronic illness in a neurodivergent family. If you're dealing with constant fatigue, brain fog, inflammation, and broken sleep while trying to keep up with your kids, you're not alone. This podcast is for chronic illness moms raising neurodivergent kids who want stress relief, better sleep, and simple, realistic habits to finally feel better in their bodies. Each episode shares nervous-system-friendly support to help you calm overwhelm, boost energy, and practice healthy habits that improve your symptoms — even in the middle of a full, demanding life. Parenting neurodivergent kids can bring incredible love and joy, but it can also bring moments of grief, frustration, and helplessness that many moms carry quietly. Over time, those unresolved emotions can contribute to chronic stress, emotional burnout, and nervous system overload. In this episode, I talk about how emotional stress builds in the body, why it's important to process difficult emotions, and how small habits can help close the stress cycle so those feelings don't stay trapped in the body. You'll also learn simple examples of habits from the Power 9 framework that help support emotional recovery and resilience during difficult seasons. Resources and Links Mentioned Chronic Health Coaching https://ashleybraden.com/coaching Magnesium Cream HERE Lymphatic Cream HERE Natural Product store: https://payhip.com/hearthwellnaturals 196. Why Emotional Stress Turns Into Pain and Inflammation and How to Feel Better 165. Why Complaining Feels Good—But Wires You for Emotional Burnout Connect With Me Contact: https://www.facebook.com/chronicillnessmoms Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/chronichealthmoms Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chronicillnessmoms YouTube: https://bit.ly/chronicillnessyoutube Next Steps: Join the Facebook group for support and community Book a 1:1 Chronic Health Coaching session
An admittedly too-short Season 4 wraps with a little reflection, a little mischief, and a big look at what's coming next.We look back on 2025's theme of Mastery, the unexpected places it led (including GMing at Gen Con), and the ideas that have been lighting our brains on fire lately. Also revealed? The theme guiding 2026 — and where this strange, wonderful adventure might take us next.Thanks for spending another season of ADHd20 with us.
SLP Stephanie Boron joins the podcast for a conversation on how she seeks and creates neurodiversity-affirming spaces through her work as a clinician, clinical instructor, and faculty member at Northwestern University.Boron describes herself as AuDHD—autistic and ADHD. On the podcast, she shares what neurodiversity-affirming spaces can look like and why they matter to clients.Learn More:ASHA Voices: What a CSD Professor Learned About Autistic Masking While Creating Neuro-Affirming SpacesPositively Disrupting Social Groups: A Neurodiversity-Affirming Glow-UpAssistive Technology in SchoolsTranscript
Why does friendship feel like an intuitive gift for some, but a complex, manual process for others? This week, Emily Kircher-Morris sits down with social-emotional learning expert Caroline Maguire, author of the award-winning Why Will No One Play With Me? and the upcoming Friendship Skills for Neurodivergent Adults. The conversation dismantles the harmful narrative that connection should happen organically, reframing social struggles not as character flaws, but as understandable skill gaps influenced by executive dysfunction and past trauma. They talk about the concept of "Middle School Caroline," the inner child who reacts to perceived slights with high-alert protection, and suggest advice on unmasking, managing rejection sensitivity, and finding "your people" who value compassion over perfect social performance. TAKEAWAYS The "friendship should be easy" narrative fuels unnecessary shame. Connection is a complex skill set, not an innate character trait. Executive dysfunction directly impacts the logistical and emotional labor of maintaining adult relationships. Rejection Sensitivity (RSD) often functions as a protective mechanism whose past social trauma colors present-day perceptions. Unmasking in friendships is a gradual spectrum that requires identifying safe people rather than an all-or-nothing disclosure. Neurodivergent social strengths like info-dumping and deep empathy are valid forms of connection that deserve recognition and framing, rather than suppression. Neurodivergent adults often base social perceptions on the most recent interaction, making objectivity and evidence-based thinking vital for relationship stability. Mental health professionals, join us for our upcoming training, Interpreting Autism Assessment Data in High-Masking and Under-Identified Presentations. Dr. Taylor Day is the presenter, and it will be held Friday, April 3 at 2:00 PM Eastern. If you can't make it live, the recorded self-study version will be available shortly after the live event. It's approved for both APA and NBCC continuing ed hours. You can register here. Caroline Maguire, M.Ed., PCC is an internationally recognized expert in social-emotional learning, ADHD coaching, and relationship development. She is the author of the award-winning book Why Will No One Play with Me? and the upcoming Friendship Skills for Neurodivergent Adults (Balance Books, April 2026). As the host of The ADHD Social Playbook podcast, Caroline helps neurodivergent individuals build the confidence and connection skills needed to thrive in relationships. A coach, educator, and sought-after speaker, Caroline developed a comprehensive SEL training methodology used by parents, clinicians, and educators to foster self-awareness, emotional regulation, and meaningful social interactions. She is the founder of the family-focused coach training program at the ADD Coach Academy, and brings both professional expertise and personal insight to her work as a neurodivergent person with ADHD, dyslexia, and learning disabilities. Her work has been featured by TEDx, ADDitude, WebMD, MindBodyGreen, and more. BACKGROUND READING Facebook, Instagram, "Friendship Skills for Neurodivergent Adults" book: Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Books a Million, Hachette, Audible The Neurodiversity Podcast is on Facebook, Instagram, BlueSky, and you're invited to join our Facebook Group. For more information go to www.NeurodiversityPodcast.com. If you'd like members of your organization, school district, or company to know more about the subjects discussed on our podcast, Emily Kircher-Morris provides keynote addresses, workshops, and training sessions worldwide, in-person or virtually. You can choose from a list of established presentations, or work with Emily to develop a custom talk to fit your unique situation. To learn more, visit our website.
Ever needed extra time, extra support, or a different way of doing something and immediately thought, “Wait… is this cheating?”Yeah. That feeling is way more common than you think.This week, David and Isabelle are back on stage at the Neurodiversity Alliance Leadership Summit in Denver for the second part of their live conversation with Jesse Sanchez, President of the Neurodiversity Alliance. Jesse has been part of this community for years as a mentor, leader, and now the person helping guide the organization forward. The Leadership Summit is where Neurodiversity Alliance mentors and student leaders from across the country gather for training, storytelling, and connection. It's a room full of neurodivergent students learning how to talk about their brains with confidence—and how to help younger kids do the same.In this part of the live conversation, Safia Mohammed, a Brooklyn-based nursing student and Neurodiversity Alliance Student Ambassador who's been part of the community for several years, joins the conversation. She shares her story about something a lot of neurodivergent people wrestle with: the uncomfortable feeling that needing support somehow means you're doing something wrong.Safia talks about her experience first received an IEP (Individualized Education Program) in elementary school. At the time, it felt confusing. She was being pulled out of class for extra help and didn't really understand why. And like a lot of neurodivergent kids, she started wondering something was wrong with her. David and Isabelle unpack why moments like that are so common in the neurodivergent experience, from the stigma around accommodations to the deeply ingrained belief that success only counts if it's hard.If you've ever hesitated to ask for help because you didn't want to feel like you were getting an advantage, this conversation might shift how you think about support and what it's actually there to do.Here's what's coming your way:Safia's story of receiving an IEP and why it felt confusing when she was youngerThe moment that changed how she understood accommodationsWhy so many neurodivergent people feel shame around getting supportHow stigma around accommodations keeps people from advocating for what they need-------Wait, What's That? Here are some of the terms and people mentioned in this episode explained:IEP (Individualized Education Program): A formal education plan used in U.S. schools to provide accommodations and support for students with learning differences or disabilities. These supports can include extra time on tests, alternative learning environments, or additional instructional support designed to help students demonstrate what they actually know.Accommodations: Adjustments made in school or work environments that allow people with learning differences or disabilities to access the same opportunities as others. Examples include extended time on exams, quieter testing environments, or different ways of presenting information.Neurodiversity Alliance (formerly Eye to Eye): An organization where neurodivergent young adults and teens mentor younger neurodivergent kids through art projects and advocacy work. The rebrand reflects what they actually do: build an alliance of humans across the neurodivergent spectrum who know how to tell their full stories, vulnerabilities and superpowers included.OI: A term used by members of the Neurodiversity Alliance community to refer to the organization's annual leadership summit where mentors and student leaders gather for training and connection.-------
In this special "From the Vault" episode, Lindsay shares her powerful talk from the Neurodiverse Entrepreneur Summit about how private podcasts can transform learning for neurodivergent brains. She reveals the personal story behind Hello Audio's creation and breaks down the three major accessibility barriers that prevent course completion. This episode is essential listening for anyone creating online courses, memberships, or learning experiences who wants to serve their audience better while dramatically improving consumption rates. Topics CoveredThe personal story that inspired Hello Audio's creationWhy up to 72% of neurodivergent entrepreneurs struggle with traditional content consumptionThe three accessibility barriers killing content engagement (login labyrinth, sensory overload, and rigidity)How ADHD and autistic brains process information differentlyThe difference between public and private podcastsHow private podcasts eliminate barriers through choice, cognitive processing support, and reduced frictionPractical steps to transform existing content into audio formatContent design strategies for neurodivergent successLinks MentionedLaunch Your Audio Lead Magnet series: helloaudio.fm/lyalmMore from Hello AudioGrab a free trialYoutubeInstagramFacebook Group Subscribe and ReviewIf you loved this episode, please take a moment to subscribe and leave a review! Thank you so much for tuning in to Launch Your Private Podcast.
If eating disorder recovery has made your stomach feel worse instead of better, you are not alone. Many people experience bloating, constipation, reflux, stomach pain, and fullness during recovery. These symptoms can feel frightening and discouraging, especially when they show up after you start nourishing your body more consistently. In this solo episode, Dr. Marianne Miller, LMFT, explains why gastrointestinal symptoms are common during eating disorder recovery and why they do not mean recovery is failing. You will learn how restriction affects the digestive system, why symptoms sometimes intensify during early recovery, and what helps the gut heal over time. Dr. Miller also shares practical strategies for coping with GI discomfort while continuing recovery. This episode offers compassionate guidance for navigating one of the most misunderstood parts of eating disorder healing. Why GI Issues Are Common in Eating Disorder Recovery Many people are surprised when digestive symptoms worsen after they begin eating more consistently. Bloating, constipation, reflux, nausea, and stomach pain can make recovery feel confusing or even frightening. In this episode, Dr. Marianne Miller explains how restrictive eating, purging, inconsistent nourishment, and limited food variety affect the gastrointestinal system. When the body does not receive enough energy, digestion slows in order to conserve resources. Motility decreases, stomach emptying may become delayed, and the muscles of the digestive tract lose strength over time. When nourishment increases during recovery, the digestive system must relearn how to function. This recalibration process can temporarily intensify symptoms. While uncomfortable, these changes are often part of the gut rebuilding normal digestive rhythms. Common Digestive Symptoms During Eating Disorder Recovery People in eating disorder recovery frequently report symptoms such as bloating, constipation, reflux, abdominal discomfort, nausea, and early fullness. These symptoms may appear during early refeeding or after increasing meal consistency. Dr. Miller discusses how slowed gastrointestinal motility, microbiome changes, and nervous system activation contribute to these experiences. She also explains why bloating can feel especially distressing in a culture that places intense pressure on stomach appearance and body size. Understanding the physiology behind these symptoms can help reduce fear and prevent the eating disorder from using GI discomfort as justification for returning to restriction. The Gut Is Adaptable and Healing Is Possible One of the most important messages of this episode is that the digestive system is highly adaptable. With consistent nourishment, hydration, and medical support when needed, the gastrointestinal tract can recover significant function. Over time, stomach emptying can improve, bowel patterns can normalize, and abdominal discomfort can decrease. The gut lining regenerates, digestive enzymes adjust, and the microbiome can become more balanced. Recovery does not always follow a straight line, but healing is possible when the body receives consistent energy and care. Practical Ways to Cope With GI Symptoms in Recovery This episode also explores practical ways to cope with digestive discomfort while continuing eating disorder recovery. Dr. Miller discusses the role of mechanical eating in helping retrain digestive rhythms and why regular meals often support gastrointestinal healing. Sensory supports can also help regulate the nervous system, including wearing loose clothing, using a heating pad on the abdomen after meals, and creating calming eating environments. Hydration can support bowel function, and gentle abdominal massage may help stimulate motility. For some individuals, medical providers may recommend medications or short term treatments to reduce symptoms such as constipation, reflux, or delayed gastric emptying. Dr. Miller emphasizes that any movement during eating disorder recovery must be cleared by a medical provider first. If a physician has determined that movement is safe, gentle activities such as short walks or stretching may sometimes support digestion. Medical clearance is essential before incorporating movement into recovery. The Role of Medical Support in GI Healing Because digestive symptoms can overlap with other medical conditions, collaboration with an eating disorder informed medical provider is important. Physicians can help assess symptoms, rule out other causes, and recommend appropriate treatments when needed. Medications or medical supports may be helpful for constipation, reflux, nausea, or delayed gastric emptying. Seeking medical care for GI symptoms does not mean recovery is failing. It means symptoms are being treated compassionately and responsibly. Intersectionality and GI Symptoms Dr. Miller also highlights how systemic bias can affect how digestive symptoms are treated. People in larger bodies may have GI concerns dismissed as weight related rather than recognized as recovery related. People of color may experience undertreatment of pain. Neurodivergent individuals may experience sensory distress that is misunderstood or minimized. Acknowledging these realities helps contextualize why some people struggle to receive appropriate care and why compassionate, informed providers are so important. A Message of Hope for Eating Disorder Recovery GI distress during eating disorder recovery can feel discouraging, especially when symptoms appear after you begin nourishing your body more consistently. But digestive discomfort does not mean recovery is harming you. In many cases, it means the digestive system is relearning how to function. With time, consistent nourishment, appropriate medical support, and nervous system regulation, many people see meaningful improvement in digestive symptoms. Your body is not failing you. It is adjusting and healing. Work With Dr. Marianne Miller Dr. Marianne Miller, LMFT, is a fat eating disorder therapist who specializes in binge eating disorder, ARFID, and complex eating disorder recovery. She works with clients in California, Texas, Washington DC, and internationally through virtual therapy and coaching. If you are looking for eating disorder therapy that integrates physiology, neurodivergent affirming care, and liberation informed approaches, you can learn more about working with Dr. Miller at her website drmariannemiller.com. She also offers self-paced courses and resources designed to support sustainable eating disorder recovery.
Send a textCoral PS Hoh, Ph.D., is a clinical linguist with a Ph.D. in Linguistics. For the past 30 years, she has worked with children and adults with dyslexia, learning disabilities, and other language-related disorders. The U.S. and other countries granted her AI patents for the diagnosis and treatment of these disorders. She is an author and referee for peer-reviewed journals and the architect of Dysolve® AI (https://dysolve.ai/), the first autonomous AI system for neurodevelopmental disorders.Dyslexia Journey has conversations and explorations to help you support the dyslexic child in your life. Content includes approaches, tips, and interviews with a range of guests from psychologists to educators to people with dyslexia. Increase your understanding and connection with your child as you help them embrace their uniqueness and thrive on this challenging journey!Send us your questions, comments, and guest suggestions to parentingdyslexiajourney@gmail.comAlso check out our YouTube channel! https://www.youtube.com/@ParentingDyslexiaJourney
Hello Brave Friends!In this Expert episode, hosts Jessica Patay and Susanna Peace Lovell sit down with therapist and behavior analyst Monica Fyfe, LMFT, BCBA, to explore the evolving landscape of therapy for neurodivergent youth.Monica brings a unique perspective to her work, blending her experience as a licensed marriage and family therapist with her training as a Board Certified Behavior Analyst. In this thoughtful conversation, she explains how therapy for neurodivergent children has shifted in recent years toward more compassionate, individualized, and strengths-based approaches.Together, they discuss how modern therapeutic practices—including updated approaches to Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)—are increasingly centered on dignity, consent, and the unique needs of each child. Monica also shares how integrating different therapeutic frameworks, including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), can help children and teens better understand their emotions, identify their values, and build confidence navigating the world.The conversation also explores the powerful role of language in shaping how families understand diagnoses and neurodiversity. Monica encourages parents to focus less on labels and more on specific goals and supports that help their children thrive. She also discusses the importance of helping neurodivergent youth build “social navigation” skills that allow them to create meaningful connections and engage with their communities.Finally, Monica introduces her children's book series, which uses storytelling and bibliotherapy to introduce therapeutic concepts in accessible, engaging ways for kids and families.This episode is full of practical insight and reassurance for parents seeking thoughtful, respectful, and effective support for their neurodivergent children.Find more about Monica Fyfe's children's series Welcome to Petsville here.Find more information about Licensed Psychotherapist, Dr. Zoe Shaw here. Find Dr. Zoe's book, Stronger in the Difficult Places: Heal Your Relationship with Yourself by Untangling Complex Shame Brave Together is the podcast for We are Brave Together, a not-for-profit organization based in the USA. The heart of We Are Brave Together is to strengthen, encourage, inspire and validate all moms of children with disabilities and other needs in their unique journeys. JOIN the international community of We Are Brave Together here. Donate to support all of We Are Brave Together's programs and offerings here. Can't get enough of the Brave Together Podcast? Follow us on Instagram , Facebook and Youtube. Feel free to contact Jessica Patay via email: jpatay@wearebravetogether.org If you have any topic requests or if you would like to share a story, leave us a message here. Please leave a review and rating today! We thank you in advance! Disclaimer
In this week's episode I talk about why traveling has been hard for me with my AuDHD, some past experiences I've had on trips (needing sometimes a full month to recover!), and how I approached my trip this past weekend as an experiment to explore a few questions: 1. Do I have an easier time coming home if I am not the one who has to drive?2. Do I have an easier time coming home if the primary objective of the trip is to rest and relax?3. Do I have an easier time coming home if I have maintained a threshold connection to my routines at home?
What if the leadership advice to “push harder” and “toughen up” isn't motivation—but misalignment? In Healthy Mind, Healthy Life, hosted by Sayan, leadership coach Sira Laurel explores why so many capable leaders burn out—not because they're weak, but because the system was never designed for how they process the world. This episode is for highly sensitive professionals, neurodivergent leaders, and anyone feeling exhausted from “masking” at work. You'll walk away with a new lens: your sensitivity isn't a liability—it can be your greatest leadership advantage when the environment supports your nervous system. About the Guest: Sira Laurel is the founder of North of Normal and a leadership coach working at the intersection of neuro-leadership, organizational development, and behavioral science. She previously spent 15 years in corporate leadership and HR/OD roles, and her work is shaped by lived experience with sensitivity and burnout. Episode Chapters: 00:07:07 — The opening truth: when leadership advice works against your wiring 00:08:31 — Sira's burnout turning point and founding North of Normal 00:11:26 — What gets misunderstood about sensitive and neurodivergent leaders 00:16:22 — Why traditional leadership fails: assumptions about pace, processing, and recharge 00:19:21 — Reframing “too sensitive” and “overthinking” into leadership strengths 00:21:37 — The orchid, tulip, dandelion metaphor for work environments 00:25:27 — The weekly reflection: alignment vs assimilation Key Takeaways: Notice where you're masking emotions to fit “executive presence,” and what it costs you. Reframe “overthinking” as risk prevention and opportunity detection—a real business asset. Recognize that leadership models often assume everyone processes information the same way. Use the “orchid/tulip/dandelion” lens to identify what environment helps you thrive. Practice one honest check-in: Where am I in alignment vs assimilation this week? If you're sensitive, aim to be both the flower and the gardener—meet your needs on purpose. How to Connect With the Guest: Website: siralaurel.com LinkedIn: Sira Laurel Want to be a guest on Healthy Mind, Healthy Life? DM on PM - Send me a message on PodMatch DM Me Here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/avik Disclaimer: This video is for educational and informational purposes only. The views expressed are the personal opinions of the guest and do not reflect the views of the host or Healthy Mind By Avik™️. We do not intend to harm, defame, or discredit any person, organization, brand, product, country, or profession mentioned. All third-party media used remain the property of their respective owners and are used under fair use for informational purposes. By watching, you acknowledge and accept this disclaimer. Healthy Mind By Avik™️ is a global platform redefining mental health as a necessity, not a luxury. Born during the pandemic, it's become a sanctuary for healing, growth, and mindful living. Hosted by Avik Chakraborty, storyteller, survivor, and wellness advocate. With over 6000+ episodes and 200K+ global listeners, we unite voices, break stigma, and build a world where every story matters.
Ryan showed up running on fumes. Joyhdae's dishwasher is broken. And somehow this became one of the most honest conversations about brains, the internet lying to you, and the world doing entirely too much.We got to the topics. Eventually.This week: the internet convinced itself Jim Carrey was replaced. The US and Israel did something that has the entire Middle East on alert and Ryan wants everyone to know WE are not involved. And there's a trend of men leaving their girlfriends on mountains. Literal mountains. With real consequences.Ryan is writing a movie. Joyhdae is on chapter seven of her book…this is what happens when two neurodivergent people are left unsupervised..Somewhere between chaos and clarity — that's where Virgo Season lives.⸻Segment BreakdownThis or That — Started with scented candles. Ended somewhere near an existential crisis. Classic.Am I The Asshole? — He had a problem with his girlfriend. Said nothing to the actual problem. We had thoughts.Jim Carrey & The Conspiracy That Wasn't — The real story behind the photos everyone was losing their minds over.The World Right Now — We didn't want to go here. We had to. Ryan has a disclaimer.Alpine Divorce — Men are leaving women on mountains and a court just made an example out of one of them.Dad vs Auntie Jokes — The nine volt battery joke. You've been warned.⸻Anniversary is coming — Ryan needs your videos. 15-20 seconds. He's been asking. Joyhdae will ugly-cry over it and Ryan will make it the thumbnail. Virgoseasonshow@gmail.com⸻Connect With Us:Email: Virgoseasonshow@gmail.comWebsite: Virgoseasonshow.comYouTube, TikTok & Instagram: @VirgoSeasonShowRyan: @OhBlackRyanJoyhdae: @JoyhdaeSubscribe, leave a review, turn on notifications. ⸻We're grateful for your continued support. We couldn't do it without you. This show is a labor of love. We thank you!⸻CHAPTERS00:00 — Intro00:05 — Opening Banter14:19 — This or That?!34:25 — AITA?41:00 — The Rundown41:47 — Jim Carrey's Face49:48 — Trump Starts A War59:57 — Alpine Divorce01:06:05 — Dad vs Auntie Jokes01:08:46 — Find Us On All The Things!01:09:11 — CTA: We Need Your Help...01:10:49 — Find Us On All The Things! (cont'd)01:11:10 — One More For The Road...01:11:34 — Outro
Few episodes are more important and full of practical tips than this one! In this re-listen we reflect on what we can do to support our kids in healthy sleep. Poor sleep impacts 30-40% of children with up to 80% of neurodivergent children experiencing childhood insomnia. We hope you like this PCP Guide and please listen to the reflection episode 20 as it's full of gold form the beautiful PCP community. We hope this helps your child sleep better and succeed more in their waking hours.
Jacko hat plötzlich keine Probleme mehr, und merkt erschrocken, wie wenig man dann eigentlich zu erzählen hat. Während sie also ihr neues „Alles läuft“-Leben analysiert, enthült Sam einen neuen Secret Crush von The Voice Kids (Entwarnung: er ist volljährig!). Außerdem klärt Sam im „Wissen macht adelig“, warum die meisten Länder gar nicht so heißen, wie wir sie nennen, und der Adel bietet reichlich Feedback zum Thema "Was versteckt ihr, wenn Besuch kommt?" Sagen wir mal so: Die Liste ist lang! Dazu ein ganzer Stapel Zettel: Beauty-Produkte gegen Hässlichkeitskrisen, Bikinistreifen, Baggy vs. Skinny Jeans und die Frage, was passiert, wenn der eigene Partner plötzlich eine optische Veränderung durchmacht, die man… eher unattraktiv findet. Hier findet ihr alle Deals unserer Werbepartner: https://linktr.ee/jackundsampodcast
In this episode, Emily sits down with education leader, school founder, and author Chris Balme to completely reframe how we view the middle school years. Rather than treating early adolescence as a miserable phase to simply muddle through, it's a period of profound neurological transformation and peak human potential. Redesigning educational environments for neurodivergent students, by prioritizing smaller, consistent advisory cohorts and scaffolding executive function, creates a safer, more engaging culture for everyone. Other topics include the activation of the "social brain," why a baseline of belonging must be established before academic achievement can occur, and how traditional middle school structures often inadvertently fight against a student's natural developmental drives. TAKEAWAYS Middle school is a period of rapid cognitive and social development that requires specific developmental maps, not lowered expectations. A balanced and healthy social brain provides a secure sense of belonging, which is a biological imperative. Structuring middle schools to support neurodivergent learners enhances psychological safety and improves the educational baseline for the entire student body. Middle schoolers possess a highly attuned radar for authenticity and are skeptical of artificial relevance, like busywork. Objective, real-world responsibilities massively boost a middle schooler's maturity and self-efficacy. Mental health professionals, join us for our next live 90-minute CE training, Inherited Neurodivergence: Supporting Parents' Identity Journeys, featuring presenter, Dr. Amy Marschall. The event is Friday, March 6 at 2:00 pm Eastern/11:00 am Pacific. It's approved for continuing education through the American Psychological Association and the National Board of Certified Counselors. If you can't make it live, you can still register for the self-study version. Chris Balme is an education leader, writer, and school founder dedicated to helping young people unlock their human potential. He currently serves as Co-Principal at Hakuba International School and is the Founder and Director of Argonaut, an online advisory program supporting middle schoolers around the world. Chris is an Ashoka Fellow, recognized for his leadership as a changemaker in education. He is the author of two books: Finding the Magic in Middle School, written for parents and teachers, and Challenge Accepted, written directly for middle school students. Through his work, writing, and international speaking and training, Chris continues to inspire more human-centered, transformative approaches to education. He lives in the San Francisco Bay Area with his wife and three children. BACKGROUND READING Chris's website, Instagram The Neurodiversity Podcast is on Facebook, Instagram, BlueSky, and you're invited to join our Facebook Group. For more information go to www.NeurodiversityPodcast.com. If you'd like members of your organization, school district, or company to know more about the subjects discussed on our podcast, Emily Kircher-Morris provides keynote addresses, workshops, and training sessions worldwide, in-person or virtually. You can choose from a list of established presentations, or work with Emily to develop a custom talk to fit your unique situation. To learn more, visit our website.
In this Hot Topic episode of The Neurodivergent Experience, Jordan James and Simon Scott react to the sudden cancellation of Smiling Friends — a hugely popular animated show created by Michael Cusack and Zach Hadel.At the height of its success, the creators announced they were ending the show after season three due to burnout. Jordan and Simon unpack what that decision means, not just for fans, but for neurodivergent creatives who know what it feels like to hit a wall after achieving something huge.They explore the tension between creative integrity and audience grief, the difficulty of abrupt endings, and why burnout can sometimes mean walking away — even from something you love.With Malcolm in the Middle and Scrubs both returning, they reflect on how Malcolm's family remains one of the most authentic portrayals of a chaotic, neurodivergent-coded family on television — and what it means when our comfort shows return after years away.In this episode, we discuss:Neurodivergent creator burnoutWalking away at the height of successcreative Integrity vs financial opportunityAudience grief when shows endThe risk of investing in cancelled seriesComfort shows and “cosy watch” rewatchesMalcolm in the Middle as ND representationA thoughtful, funny conversation about burnout, creative autonomy, comfort shows, and the emotional impact of losing — and regaining — the stories that feel like home.Our Sponsors:
What does it really mean to be a neurodivergent freelancer in photography? In this episode of The Nerdy Photographer, we talk openly about ADHD, autism, burnout, structure, creativity, and building a freelance career that works with your brain - not against it. If traditional advice has never worked for you, this conversation might finally make sense. What We Talk About in This Episode This interview covers the real-world realities of neurodivergent freelancing, including: Managing energy, attention, and overwhelm Creating structure without rigidity Navigating client communication and expectations Redefining success outside traditional productivity models Letting go of comparison and "shoulds" Rather than offering one-size-fits-all solutions, this conversation encourages photographers to design careers that reflect how they actually function. Redefining Professionalism Being professional doesn't mean masking. It doesn't mean burning yourself out to meet arbitrary standards. And it doesn't mean copying how others work. For neurodivergent photographers, sustainability often comes from self-awareness, boundaries, and permission to work differently. This episode is a reminder that there is no single way to be a "real" photographer - or a successful freelancer. Episode Promos This episode contains promos for: On1 Photo Raw - https://nerdyphotographer.com/recommends/on1/ Siteground Web Hosting - https://siteground.com/go/nerdy StyleCloud WP Website Themes - https://stylecloud.co/ref/380/ Adorama - https://nerdyphotographer.com/recommends/adorama Support The Nerdy Photographer Want to help The Nerdy Photographer Podcast? Here are a few simple (and mostly free) ways you can do that: Subscribe to the podcast! Tell your friends about the podcast Sign up for the newsletter - https://nerdyphotographer.com/newsletter Subscribe to our YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@CaseyFatchett Buy a print from the print shop - https://art.caseyfphoto.com Follow on Instagram - https://instagram.com/thenerdyphoto Follow on Threads - https://threads.net/@thenerdyphoto Follow on BlueSky - https://bsky.app/profile/thenerdyphoto.bsky.social Follow in Tiktok - https://tiktok.com/@thenerdyphoto Get some Nerdy Photographer merchandise - https://nerdyphoto.dashery.com If you're feeling extra generous, check out our support page - https://nerdyphotographer.com/support-nerdy-photographer/ About My Guest Aly Hansen is a wedding photographer who specializes in film photography and a true documentary approach. You can view Aly's work on her website - https://alyhansenphoto.com - or on Instagram https://instagram.com/alyhansenweddings About The Podcast The Nerdy Photographer Podcast is written and produced by Casey Fatchett. Casey is a professional photographer in the New York City / Northern New Jersey with more than 20 years of experience. He just wants to help people and make them laugh. You can view Casey's wedding work at https://fatchett.com or his non-wedding work at https://caseyfatchettphotography.com If you have any questions or comments about this episode or any other episodes, OR if you would like to ask a photography related question or have ideas for a topic for a future episode, please reach out to us at https://nerdyphotographer.com/contact
In this episode of The Neurodivergent Experience, Jordan James and Simon Scott explore why neurodivergent people can be more vulnerable to negative influence.Growing up feeling different often leads to masking, people-pleasing, and a fragile sense of identity. When belonging has felt conditional, it can become easier to agree, adapt, and absorb the views of others just to avoid rejection.Jordan shares a recent experience of being let down by someone he trusted, while Simon reflects on a past friendship that crossed into manipulation and exploitation. They unpack how loneliness, burnout, justice sensitivity, and the need for certainty can leave neurodivergent people more susceptible to toxic dynamics.The conversation also dives into social media, echo chambers, and algorithm-driven radicalisation, and how validation, moral clarity, and belonging can feel regulating even when the influence itself is harmful.In this episode, we discuss:Masking and weakened identityPeople-pleasing and toxic friendshipsJustice sensitivity is being exploitedLoneliness and manipulationSocial media echo chambersDoom-scrolling and radicalisationBurnout and impulsive decisionsKnowing your vulnerable seasonsAn honest episode about influence, autonomy, and learning to protect yourself without losing your openness.Our Sponsors:
Kids & Family - Jessica Shaw, Understood.org
The communication “rules” most workplaces follow weren't built for every brain.In this episode, Andy J. Pizza explores how ADHD and other forms of neurodivergence shape the way people think, speak and lead. You'll hear why entrepreneurship attracts so many neurodivergent thinkers, how to turn these traits into a storytelling advantage, and what leaders can do to support neurodivergent teams so everyone can do their best work.Andy is a bestselling author, speaker, and host of the long-running podcast Creative Pep Talk. He has spent years studying storytelling, creativity, and speaking with ADHD – and built a career on turning different wiring into influence.Topics discussed:Introduction (00:00)Do neurodivergent people communicate differently? (00:38)Moving from shame to self-acceptance with an ADHD diagnosis (05:15)Masking as a coping mechanism: when it becomes detrimental (10:21)Why many entrepreneurs are neurodivergent (11:59)Neurodivergent work methods and why meaning is so important (15:49)Why so many neurodivergent people undermine their value (20:15)Why neurodivergent leaders may thrive in the AI era (22:25)How leaders unlock creativity and what blocks it (28:30)Storytelling as a communication tool (30:44)How leaders can support neurodivergent employees (36:50)Andy's picture books and podcast (41:10)What you should do before communicating (42:35)Connect with Andy J. Pizza:https://www.andyjpizza.com/https://www.youtube.com/c/CreativePepTalkWant to work with Oliver and become a top 1% communicator? Join the Speak Like a CEO Academy: https://www.speaklikeaceo.academy/This episode was produced by Podcast Boutique https://www.podcastboutique.com (https://podcastboutique.com)
Neurodiversity is part of veterinary medicine, whether we talk about it or not. In this episode, Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, MPA, RVT, sit down with Ron Sosa, veterinary team coach and founder of Syn-APT Leadership Coaching, to explore what neurodiversity really looks like in our profession. From Ron's late diagnoses of ADHD and autism to high masking, imposter syndrome, and burnout, this conversation goes deeper than labels. Ron shares why veterinary medicine may have a higher prevalence of neurodivergent professionals than the general population and what that means for clinic culture, leadership, and team dynamics. The discussion moves beyond accommodations and into accessibility, including practical ways to reduce cognitive load in the hospital environment. If you lead a team, manage a practice, or simply want to better understand yourself and your coworkers, this episode offers thoughtful, actionable insight. It's not about diagnosing anyone. It's about building workplaces where people can thrive without having to mask who they are. Syn-APT website: https://www.syn-apt.me/ Amazon Link: https://a.co/d/8YrUYOL
On this episode, Jeff Hinshaw guides you through a somatic meditation and energy update connected to the Virgo Full Moon Lunar Eclipse of 2026—a fated turning point unfolding over months, not just a single night. With the North Node in Pisces and the South Node in Virgo, a story that's been developing for over the past decade begins to crest, inviting release, discernment, and a return to embodied, practical wisdom. Then, Jeff is joined by Double Aquarius, Virgo Rising Bee—The Zine Witch. Recorded amid a rare eclipse sequence linking Aquarius and Virgo by quincunx rather than polarity, they explore what it means to be cycle-enders. They reflect on collective PTSD, grief surfacing through clients and communities, and Virgo's sacred task of digestion. Together tracing larger cycles—the 18.5-year eclipse rhythm and the 35-year Saturn–Neptune arc—as thresholds of generational review, asking how we tend the details of our healing while history turns. We also dive into Internal Family Systems with Virgo's esoteric phrase “I am the mother and the child” as a guide. We re-frame astrology as a tool for re-parenting, especially for neurodivergent folks who learned to self-manage and mask in order to survive. In a playful Virgo improv, Virgo stays home to tend to the mundane, receives a protective ward at a threshold, and invokes ancestral courage through shufflemancy with Amy Winehouse—opening a dialogue on feminism, the meaning of the word “Virago,” and embodied service. We close our time pulling the “Fearless” card from the Wild Kuan Yin oracle, Bee offers a candle ritual for courage and protection, sealing the episode with a direct blessing to those stepping into autonomy, reminding us that devotion to healing, detail, and love is itself a revolutionary act. Mentorship & Sessions Cosmic Cousins! I have openings for one-on-one mentorships for those seeking ongoing guidance and support on their personal or astrological journey. As well as openings for Deep Dive Astrology Readings and Tarot Soul Journey sessions. These are available online, so you can join from anywhere in the world. Cosmic Cousins Links Newsletter Mentorship Deep Dive Astrology Readings Tarot Soul Journey Cosmic Cousins Substack & Memberships Intro & Outro Music by: Felix III
Navigating life with kids and dogs can be tricky- something we've talked about many times before on the show. And it can become even more complicated when one of the parties involved has some kind of special need. Neurodivergent kiddos or children with sensory processing disorders can find living with a dog- even a dog they love- to be especially challenging, and parents are often at a loss as to what to do. Enter Debbie Lucken, the founder of Kids Around Dogs, an organization dedicated to helping kids and dogs get along. Back in December, Debbie came on the podcast to talk about her work with KAD. This week she's back to talk more about helping those kids who are a little differently wired to still find joy in their pets. For show notes and more, please go to Your Family Dog.
Our nervous system requires different ways of functioning. In this episode of Someone Gets Me, Dianne A. Allen explores why neurodivergent visionaries are not meant to fit the conventional path, and how the struggles, loneliness, and exhaustion often come from trying to walk roads that were never meant for us. This is a reminder that visionaries see differently, so pay attention to your energy and how you feel because you are here to leave a legacy and offer your ultimate gift to the world. Catch this on the Someone Gets Me Podcast – Why Neurodivergent Visionaries Were Never Meant to Fit In Did you enjoy this episode? Subscribe to the channel, tap the notification bell, and leave a comment! You can also listen to the show on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Amazon Music. How to Connect with Dianne A. Allen Dianne A. Allen, MA is an intuitive mentor, speaker, author, ambassador, hope agent, life catalyst, and the CEO and Founder of Visions Applied. She has been involved in personal and professional development and mental health and addiction counseling. She inspires people in personal transformation through thought provoking services from speaking and podcasting to individual intuitive mentoring and more. She uses her years of experience coupled with years of formal education to blend powerful, practical, and effective strategies and tools for success and satisfaction. She has authored several books, which include How to Quit Anything in 5 Simple Steps - Break the Chains that Bind You, The Loneliness Cure, A Guide to Contentment, 7 Simple Steps to Get Back on track and Live the Life You Envision, Daily Meditations for Visionary Leaders, Hope Realized, and Where Do You Fit In? Website: https://msdianneallen.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dianne_a_allen/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/msdianneallen/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dianneallen/# Twitter: https://x.com/msdianneallen Check out Dianne's new book, Care for the Neurodivergent Soul. https://a.co/d/cTBSxQv Visit Dianne's Amazon author page. https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0F7N457KS You have a vision inside to create something bigger than you. What you need is a community and a mentor. Personal mentoring will inspire you to grow, transform, and connect in new ways. The Someone Gets Me Experience could be that perfect solution to bringing your heart's desire into reality. You will grow, transform, and connect. https://msdianneallen.com/someone-gets-me-experience/ For a complimentary “Get to Know You” 30-minute call: https://visionsapplied.as.me/schedule.php?appointmentType=4017868 Join our Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/someonegetsme Follow Dianne's Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/msdianneallen Email contact: dianne@visionsapplied.com Dianne's Mentoring Services: https://msdianneallen.com/
‘if you're treating people in pain, you're treating autistic people in pain'Do neurodivergent people experience pain differently?The simple answer – and the slightly more complicated one Why you, or your patients, aren't recovering Building relationships across neurotypes Pain thresholds, pain anxiety, pain communication… With Dr David Moore, Reader in Pain Psychology at Liverpool John Moores UniversityThanks go to: The British Pain Society – this interview was recorded at their 2025 Annual Scientific Meeting. Read Pain Matters 91 now at pocketmags.com/pain-matters-magazine.
Timeouts have become one of the most misunderstood discipline tools in modern parenting conversations. In this episode, we unpack why timeouts are being labeled as harmful online and how that claim does not match decades of research. The real issue is not that timeouts damage attachment, but that many parents were never taught how to use them correctly. When done properly, a timeout is not punishment or shame. It is a structured pause that helps a child and parent calm down so learning can actually happen. We also talk about discipline as a layered system, not a single tactic. Timeouts are only one small part of a bigger parenting framework built on connection, attention, praise, and natural consequences. The conversation highlights nuance, temperament differences, and why no single method works for every child. Instead of vilifying tools, we focus on using them thoughtfully, consistently, and in ways that support regulation and growth. What we discussed: Why timeouts are being criticized in gentle parenting spaces Claims about attachment damage and trauma, and what research actually shows The difference between punitive timeouts and regulatory timeouts Why most parents are never taught how to use timeouts correctly Discipline as teaching, not shaming The discipline pyramid and where timeouts fit The foundation of connection and one-on-one attention Catching positive behavior with praise and rewards Using natural and logical consequences Why timeouts are a last-tier tool, not a first response Temperament differences and individualized discipline Neurodivergent children and why some tools matter more Evidence-based parenting programs that include timeouts Situations where timeouts are appropriate, like safety concerns Situations where timeouts are not helpful, like full meltdown tantrums The importance of calming the nervous system before teaching Avoiding threats, shame, and over-talking during discipline Giving children space when they need separation to regulate Why parenting tools should expand, not shrink Want more? Listen to the full, original episode. Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and subscribe to PedsDocTalk. Get trusted pediatric advice, relatable parenting insights, and evidence-based tips delivered straight to your inbox—join thousands of parents who rely on the PDT newsletter to stay informed, supported, and confident. Join the newsletter! And don't forget to follow @pedsdoctalkpodcast on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support. We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships page of the website. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Send a textThe challenges of transitioning from high school to college are difficult for everyone. For neurodivergent kids, these challenges can be overwhelming. My guest this episode is Tara Williams, owner and founder of Innovative Collegiate Consultants. As you will hear, Tara believes that by selecting the right school, connecting with the right services, and getting the right executive function coaching, neurodivergent students can do more than survive the transition: they can thrive in college. More information about Tara and and Innovative Collegiate Consultants is at talkingaboutkids.com.
"If all of their energy is spent trying to stay still in a seat, it makes sense that they might not be able to use energy to listen." - Dr. Emily KingWhat does a neurodivergent learner actually need in order to learn? In this episode, host Emily Hamblin and Dr. Emily King break down the five foundational needs every neurodivergent child must have met before real learning can happen — and how parents and teachers can make it work in any setting.In this episode you'll learn:The 5 needs of neurodivergent learners: sensory, relationship, pacing, interest, and strategyHow to manage multiple learners with different needsThe truth about motivation and how to use rewards without creating dependenceConnect with Emily Hamblin: https://instagram.com/emilyhamblincoaching Connect with Dr. Emily King: https://learnwithemily.substack.com
Timeouts have become one of the most misunderstood discipline tools in modern parenting conversations. In this episode, we unpack why timeouts are being labeled as harmful online and how that claim does not match decades of research. The real issue is not that timeouts damage attachment, but that many parents were never taught how to use them correctly. When done properly, a timeout is not punishment or shame. It is a structured pause that helps a child and parent calm down so learning can actually happen. We also talk about discipline as a layered system, not a single tactic. Timeouts are only one small part of a bigger parenting framework built on connection, attention, praise, and natural consequences. The conversation highlights nuance, temperament differences, and why no single method works for every child. Instead of vilifying tools, we focus on using them thoughtfully, consistently, and in ways that support regulation and growth. What we discussed: Why timeouts are being criticized in gentle parenting spaces Claims about attachment damage and trauma, and what research actually shows The difference between punitive timeouts and regulatory timeouts Why most parents are never taught how to use timeouts correctly Discipline as teaching, not shaming The discipline pyramid and where timeouts fit The foundation of connection and one-on-one attention Catching positive behavior with praise and rewards Using natural and logical consequences Why timeouts are a last-tier tool, not a first response Temperament differences and individualized discipline Neurodivergent children and why some tools matter more Evidence-based parenting programs that include timeouts Situations where timeouts are appropriate, like safety concerns Situations where timeouts are not helpful, like full meltdown tantrums The importance of calming the nervous system before teaching Avoiding threats, shame, and over-talking during discipline Giving children space when they need separation to regulate Why parenting tools should expand, not shrink Want more? Listen to the full, original episode. Our podcasts are also now on YouTube. If you prefer a video podcast with closed captioning, check us out there and subscribe to PedsDocTalk. Get trusted pediatric advice, relatable parenting insights, and evidence-based tips delivered straight to your inbox—join thousands of parents who rely on the PDT newsletter to stay informed, supported, and confident. Join the newsletter! And don't forget to follow @pedsdoctalkpodcast on Instagram—our new space just for parents looking for real talk and real support. We love the sponsors that make this show possible! You can always find all the special deals and codes for all our current sponsors on the PedsDocTalk Podcast Sponsorships page of the website. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
This is one of my favorite conversations on PDA to date! Livia Sara and Allyson Inez Ford sit down to discuss the connection between demand avoidance and eating disorders in neurodivergent folks, highlighting the importance of autonomy and purpose on the discovery journey. Key Topics Discussed: Why traditional eating disorder treatment fails people with PDA The need for meaning and purpose beyond abstract recovery goals like “food freedom” How eating disorders create boundaries in a boundless world and serve as distractions from existential overwhelm Why shifting “recovery” to “discovery” helps remove the pressure that healing has to look a certain way How the “why” for discovery must be self-defined, not externally imposed
It was a booooring week? Von wegen. Während der Adel schon ungeduldig Richtung Frühling blinzelt, passiert im Hause Jack&Sam mehr, als man denkt. Jacko ist endlich wieder unter die Sportler gegangen. Freiwillig! Und Sam liefert ein Autokauf-Update, das wirklich alles bestätigt, was man nie sagen darf. Spoiler: Es ist kompliziert. Außerdem klären wir die wirklich großen Fragen unserer Zeit: Sind Millennials eigentlich die abgefckteste Generation? Löschen sich Jurastudentinnen ernsthaft gegenseitig ihre Hausarbeiten? (wir haben euer Feedback!) Was macht man, wenn eine Freundin plötzlich Gefühle für den eigenen Freund entwickelt? Und welche Sachen räumt man eigentlich panisch weg, sobald sich Besuch ankündigt? Schnallt euch an. Der Frühling kommt, und der Adel sitzt am Steuer! Hier findet ihr alle Deals unserer Werbepartner: https://linktr.ee/jackundsampodcast
In this Hot Topic episode of The Neurodivergent Experience, Jordan James and Simon Scott react to major BAFTA wins for I Swear — including Robert Aramayo taking home Best Actor and the EE Rising Star Award.After previously calling it a “travesty” that Aramayo wasn't Oscar-nominated, Jordan reflects on why this win feels so significant — not just for the actor, but for neurodivergent representation in film.They unpack why I Swear works: it doesn't reduce Tourette's to a stereotype, it tells the story of one human being. The film focuses on John Davidson's life, not just his diagnosis — showing difference without pity, and representation without forcing a message.The conversation expands into a wider discussion about authentic storytelling vs performative diversity, why some representation feels natural while others feel manufactured, and how shows like Malcolm in the Middle, The Simpsons, Stranger Things, Bob's Burgers, and Rick and Morty have portrayed neurodivergent-coded characters for decades without making diagnosis the sole narrative.Note: This episode was recorded before wider discussion emerged regarding a moment during the BAFTA ceremony involving an involuntary vocal tic from John Davidson. We recognise the complexity and sensitivity of the situation. Our discussion here focuses specifically on the significance of authentic neurodivergent representation in film.This episode discusses:Robert Aramayo's BAFTA winWhy I Swear resonates so deeplyAuthentic vs forced representationTourette's, autism, ADHD and coded charactersThe legacy of Rain Man and stereotypesWhy storytelling should centre the person, not the conditionHow powerful representation builds confidenceNeurodivergent “goggles” and seeing ND traits everywhereWhy natural inclusion works better than box-tickingA passionate, funny, and thoughtful reaction episode about film, advocacy, and why authentic representation matters more than ever.Our Sponsors:
In this episode of The Neurodivergent Experience, Jordan James returns from New Zealand and joins Simon Scott for an honest and surprisingly positive conversation about travelling as a neurodivergent person.From long-haul flights and jet lag to airport anxiety and invisible disability accommodations, they reflect on how different this trip felt compared to previous travel experiences. Jordan shares how advocating for pre-boarding, using the sunflower lanyard, and clearly communicating needs made a significant difference — and why asking for accommodations can completely change the experience of flying.They also explore the cognitive and sensory impact of jet lag, navigating time zone shifts, balancing FOMO with regulation, and knowing when to cancel plans instead of pushing through burnout.This episode explores:Travelling with invisible disabilitiesAdvocating for airport accommodationsSunflower lanyards and pre-boardingLong-haul flights and neurodivergent sensory stressJet lag and ADHD brain fogFOMO vs nervous system regulationSpecial interests and travel intensityBeing present vs filming everythingPost-holiday blues and returning to routineA relaxed but reflective episode about autonomy, accessibility, travel anxiety, and learning to prioritise regulation over pressure — even when you're standing at Mount Doom.Our Sponsors:
Calling all small business owners, healers, creatives, and educators! If you want to connect with an audience that truly understands and values your work, consider sponsoring an episode of Moonbeaming — we're a podcast with more than 2 million lifetime downloads and a deeply engaged, aligned community. For more information reach out to Hailey at moonbeamingpodcast@gmail.com --- What if the reason intuition advice has never worked for you is because it wasn't designed for your brain? In this episode, Sarah explores the powerful intersection of intuition and neurodivergence — and why so much mainstream spiritual guidance can feel confusing, inaccessible, or even shaming for people with different nervous systems. Sarah also shares more about her Intuition Series (Secret Studies), a grounded, trauma-aware, neurodivergence-inclusive approach to developing intuitive skills in a way that feels safe, sustainable, and empowering. In this episode you'll hear: The difference between top-down and bottom-up processing Why many neurodivergent people experience delayed processing How intuition can show up as anger, intensity, or expansion — not just peace The myth that you must act on intuition immediately Why protector parts can override intuitive hits Capacity, impulsivity, dopamine, and energy miscalculation (especially for ADHD folks) How to take more time and build trust with yourself Take a breath. Slow down. Your intuition doesn't need to look like anyone else's to be real. --- If Intuition Advice Has Never Worked for You & You Are Neurodivergent, Read This What if the reason intuition advice has never worked for you is because it wasn't designed for your brain? Maybe you've tried to “just listen to your inner voice,” but you don't hear one. There is nothing wrong with you. Most mainstream intuition advice is built for linear, top-down processors. It rarely accounts for the way neurodivergence shapes perception, processing, timing, energy, or pattern recognition. In this episode of Moonbeaming, (link) I explore intuition through the lens of neurodivergence and nervous system awareness — and why cookie-cutter spiritual advice often misses the people who need nuance the most. This episode we explore: The difference between top-down and bottom-up processing Why many neurodivergent people experience delayed processing How intuition can show up as anger, intensity, or expansion — not just peace The myth that you must act on intuition immediately Why protector parts can override intuitive hits Capacity, impulsivity, dopamine, and energy miscalculation (especially for ADHD folks) How to take more time and build trust with yourself If this resonates, this is also the final call to join Secret Studies: The Intuition Series. (link) This is my grounded, somatics-informed, depth-psychology-rooted container for developing intuitive skill in a way that feels safe and sustainable. And remember, there is literally nothing wrong with you. Your intuition isn't broken — it's just not linear. If you can put in a button to the course, do so here.
Why are morning routines and bedtime routines so hard for ADHD and autistic kids? If your mornings feel chaotic… If bedtime turns into battles… If you've tried "sleep hygiene," reward charts, reminders, and it still falls apart… This episode is for you. In this conversation, I sit down with occupational therapist Dr. Peyton Gemmell to talk about why routines are especially difficult for neurodivergent kids and teens — and what actually helps. Here's what I need you to hear: It's not laziness. It's not defiance. It's executive functioning, sensory processing, transitions, and overwhelm. We break down: • Why morning chaos happens in ADHD and autistic children • How executive functioning impacts routines • Why traditional sleep hygiene advice often isn't enough • The role of sensory regulation in bedtime struggles • How to identify which part of the routine is actually hard • Simple, practical systems that reduce overwhelm (including a powerful visual basket strategy) • How to reduce shame while building real-life skills We also talk about something parents don't hear enough: The same routine will not work forever. Neurodivergent brains need toolkits — not rigid systems. Whether you're a parent, therapist, educator, or a neurodivergent adult trying to build sustainable routines, this episode offers practical, compassionate strategies rooted in neurodiversity-affirming care. If you're tired of feeling frustrated before 8am… If you want to support your child without increasing shame… If you're ready for systems that actually make sense… Press play. Sincerely, Holly Blanc Moses, The Mom/Neurodivergent Therapist P.S. I've got more goodness for you!
Feeling lonely in your homeschool journey because co-ops just don't fit? You are NOT failing—neither are your kiddos. In this episode, Colleen shares why neurodivergent kids often struggle with traditional group settings and how you can help your child build real, interest-led friendships that honor who they are. Tune in for encouragement, practical steps, and a permission slip to stop chasing "normal" and start creating meaningful connections in your own way. Key Takeaways: You can re-define social success for YOUR family There are easy ways to find connection outside the co-op A simple 3-step plan to build interest-led community Show yourself compassion for the tough days You've got this. You're the perfect parent for your perfect child. Links and Resources from Today's Episode Thank you to our sponsors: CTC Math – Flexible, affordable math for the whole family! Curiosity Post – A Snail Mail Club for kids – Real mail; Real life! The Learner's Lab – Online community for families homeschooling gifted/2e & neurodivergent kiddos! The Lab: An Online Community for Families Homeschooling Neurodivergent Kiddos The Homeschool Advantage: A Child-Focused Approach to Raising Lifelong Learners Raising Resilient Sons: A Boy Mom's Guide to Building a Strong, Confident, and Emotionally Intelligent Family The Anxiety Toolkit Sensory Strategy Toolkit | Quick Regulation Activities for Home Affirmation Cards for Anxious Kids Nurturing Neurodivergent Friendships: Practical Tips for Parents and Kids RLL #42: What It's Like to be Homeschooled with Best Friends Molly and Ella Teaching Kids About Being a Good Friend with Help From Great Books and Netflix Teaching Kids to Befriend Others 5 Tips for Helping Gifted Children Make Friends Navigating Sensory Overload: Actionable Strategies for Kids in Loud Environments The Not-So Friendly Friend: How to Set Boundaries for Healthy Friendships Social Skills Activities for Kids Growing Friendships: A Kids' Guide to Making and Keeping Friends Have You Filled a Bucket Today?: A Guide to Daily Happiness for Kids One Big Heart: A Celebration of Being More Alike than Different Life Skills for Kids: Unlocking a World of Possibilities through Friendship, Decision-Making, Cooking, Achieving a Success Mindset, Time-Management, Budgeting, and More Empathy Workbook for Kids: 50 Activities to Learn About Kindness, Compassion, and Other People's Feelings
Intimacy isn't just sex—and for a lot of autistic and ADHD adults, dating can feel like a confusing set of unspoken rules that nobody will explain. In this episode of Adulting With Autism, host April sits down with Mandy Hart, a Certified Sexologist and founder of Hart's Desire—Intimacy and Relationship Coaching, for a candid, compassionate conversation about shame, consent, boundaries, and connection. Mandy blends behavioral science, public health, and trauma-empowered somatic coaching to help people reconnect with their bodies, build confidence, and create authentic intimacy on their own terms—whether that's with a partner, multiple partners, or solo. We talk about what it means to feel safe in your body, how to communicate needs and boundaries, how to discuss STIs without panic or shame, and how consent can be sexy, clear, and ongoing (not a checklist). In this episode, we cover: Intimacy vs. sex: expanding what "connection" can mean Shame and self-worth: how it shows up in dating and relationships "Safety in your body" and nervous system regulation Consent skills: how to ask, how to check in, and how to make it hot (not awkward) Neurodivergent dating: navigating cues, boundaries, and communication Asexuality, sensory needs, and relationships without partner sex STI disclosure and sexual health conversations with compassion Connect with Mandy Hart: Website: https://harts-desire.com/ Email: mandy@hearts-desire.com Book a free discovery call via the site Blog: Embodying Hart's Desire
Ever walked into a room full of neurodivergent people and thought, "Oh no, what if I'm NOT actually ADHD? What if I don't belong here either?" Yeah. That's a thing. And it's weirdly universal.This week, David and Isabelle are taking you inside the Neurodiversity Alliance Leadership Summit in Denver for a special live recording with Jesse Sanchez, President of the Neurodiversity Alliance (formerly Eye to Eye). If Jesse's name sounds familiar, that's because he joined us recently to talk about mentorship and the intersectionality of neurodivergence with race, class, and systemic barriers. This time, we're bringing you the live conversation that started it all!The Neurodiversity Alliance brings together neurodivergent young adults and teens who mentor younger neurodivergent kids through art projects, advocacy, and identity work. The ND Alliance Leadership Summit is where their mentors and leaders gather for training, and David and Isabelle got to do a live podcast on stage in front of the whole group.What "finding your people" actually means when you have ADHD is more than just support. It's about finally stopping the cycle of feeling like a broken, defective version of a person and starting to feel like you belong. Jesse talks about showing up to his first summit 15 years ago "ADHD curious," terrified he wouldn't get the diagnosis and therefore wouldn't get to be part of this incredible community. Isabelle tears up remembering the moment David brought her to her first ND Alliance event and she realized, "Oh. OH. This is me." And David reflects on two decades of watching this organization do something he's never seen anywhere else: teach neurodivergent kids that being different doesn't mean being deficient.This isn't a "yay, you found support!" episode. This is about finding your SHAPE (your superpowers, your heart, your abilities, your personality, your experiences) and realizing your worth has absolutely nothing to do with how much money you make or how well you perform. It's about walking into a room where you don't have to mask, where everyone's fidgeting, and where "wait, you do that too?" is the most healing sentence in the English language.If you've ever felt inadequate, like you're failing at being a person, or like you don't quite fit anywhere, grab tissues. This one's for you.Here's what's coming your way:Jesse's journey from "ADHD curious" to diagnosed adult to president of the organization that changed his lifeWhy the fear of NOT being neurodivergent enough to belong is just as real as the fear of having ADHDThe moment Isabelle realized she had ADHD and David said "welcome to the community" (she's still not over it)What "finding your SHAPE" actually means and why it's the key to career alignment and callingWhy neurodiversity creates connection across race, class, and identity in ways other affinity spaces sometimes struggle withWhat Jesse would tell his 10-year-old self (spoiler: "You are worthy and loved beyond measure, and no one can take that from you")How the Neurodiversity Alliance is literally changing education by teaching kids to talk about their brains with mastery instead of shame-------Wait, What's That? Here are some of the terms and people mentioned in this episode explained:Neurodiversity Alliance (formerly Eye to Eye): An organization where neurodivergent young adults and teens mentor younger neurodivergent kids through art projects and advocacy work. The rebrand reflects what they actually do: build an alliance of humans across the neurodivergent spectrum who know how to tell their full stories, vulnerabilities and superpowers included."ADHD Curious": Jesse's term for showing up to his first summit without a formal diagnosis but knowing something was going on. He was literally exploring his own brain to figure out if neurodivergence explained his life.Masking: Hiding or suppressing your natural neurodivergent behaviors to fit neurotypical expectations. Isabelle talks about being hyper-aware she's masking on stage but also being able to fidget and move in ways that feel freeing instead of shameful.The "SHAPE" Framework: An acrostic Jesse uses for career alignmentS = Superpowers (what you're naturally great at)H = Heart (what motivates you)A = Abilities (what you can actually do)P = Personality (how you show up in the world)E = Experiences (what you bring from your journey)Job vs. Career vs. Calling: Jesse breaks it down: a job pays the bills, a career is something you're invested in growing long-term, and a calling is something bigger than you (something you feel pulled toward whether you like it or not).Metacognitive Skills: The ability to think about your own thinking (understanding how your brain works, what you need, and how you learn best). The ND Alliance teaches kids to get really good at talking about their learning styles instead of hiding them.-------
Italy trip, Mexico drama, USA winning gold, and more!!!!!Support the show
When someone says, “I think my partner is a narcissist,” they're usually not chasing a diagnosis—they're trying to make sense of a relationship that feels controlling, confusing, and painful. This episode slows it way down and compares narcissism with insecure attachment patterns (pursuer/withdrawer) and neurodivergence, since the impact can look similar even when the why is totally different. The big differentiator they keep coming back to is flexibility: is there willingness to reflect, learn, repair, and change—even if slowly? Main talking points Impact over labels Spectrum, not binary Rigidity vs flexibility Withdrawer mislabels Neurodivergent overlap Curiosity “experiments” Give Me Discounts! Check out Relationship Academy! Cozy Earth - Black Friday has come early! Right now, you can stack my code “IDO” on top of their sitewide sale — giving you up to 40% off in savings. These deals won't last, so start your holiday shopping today! Beducate - Use code relationship69 for 65% off the annual pass. AG1 - AG1 has become my go to every morning. Simple Practice - If you're in mental health and not using simple practice then what are you doing??? Spark My Relationship Course: Get $100 off our online course. Visit SparkMyRelationship.com/Unlock for our special offer just for our I Do Podcast listeners! Skylight - Use code “IDO” for $30 off your 15 inch calendar. If you love this episode (and our podcast!), would you mind giving us a review in iTunes? It would mean the world to us and we promise it only takes a minute. Many thanks in advance! – Colter, Cayla, & Lauren Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices