Podcasts about neurodivergent

Hello Brave Friends! On this episode, #225, we are hearing about the experience of another Thriving Neurodivergent Adult, Author, Journalist and Influencer, Carrie Berk.In this episode of the Brave Together Podcast, Carrie Berk shares her journey from writing children's books to her memoir, MINDFIRE: Diary of An Anxious Twentysomething, which addresses her personal experiences with anxiety and OCD. The conversation delves into the importance of self-love, the misconceptions surrounding OCD, and the role of parents in supporting their children's mental health. Carrie emphasizes the need for open communication, education on mental health in schools, and the destigmatization of mental health issues. She also shares practical strategies for self-compassion and managing anxiety, making this episode a valuable resource for parents and young people alike.Find Carrie Berk on IG here and TikTok here.Find our first book from We Are Brave Together here.Find FULL episodes and clips of our podcast on Youtube here.Brave Together Podcast is a resource produced by We Are Brave Together, a global nonprofit that creates community for moms raising children with disabilities, neurodivergence, or complex medical and mental health conditions. The heart of We Are Brave Together is to preserve and protect the mental health of caregiving moms everywhere. JOIN the international community of We Are Brave Together here. Donate to our Retreats and Respite Scholarships here. Donate to keep this podcast going 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! ...

What if the traits that trip you up at work are the same ones that make you exceptional? In this episode, psychiatrist, researcher, and entrepreneur Dr. Michael Freeman is back to share the strengths and risks of neurodivergent leaders. We talk about his latest research on founder mental health, why ADHD, bipolar spectrum, and dyslexia show up so often in high performers, and how to design work so your superpowers lead and your vulnerabilities don't derail you. Tune in to learn how to spot when a strength becomes “too much” and why AI may give divergent thinkers an unexpected edge. In this Episode, You Will Learn 00:00 Why entrepreneurs are more likely to be neurodiverse. 06:00 Are you a craftsperson or a scaler entrepreneur? 10:00 The ADHD subtype most tied to entrepreneurial success. 14:15 When do strengths become liabilities? 18:00 The personality traits that shape both your strengths and vulnerabilities. 22:45 Why conditions like dyslexia & ADHD carry less stigma than others. 26:30 How Dr. Freeman discovered his own dyslexia later in life. 30:00 Why AI could favor divergent thinkers. Resources + Links Learn more about Dr. Michael Freeman HERE Get a copy of my book - The Anxious Achiever Watch the podcast on YouTube  Find more resources on our website morraam.com Follow Follow me: on LinkedIn @morraaronsmele + Instagram @morraam

Hulya Mehmet is a thought leader in children's communication, a pioneering speech and language therapist, and a transformative author. With over 25 years of clinical experience and personal insight as a parent, she understands the confusion, fear, and frustration that families, educators, and professionals face when a child or individual isn't communicating in expected ways. Too often, parents are told to “wait and see.” Educators and workplaces lack the tools to respond. Neurodivergent individuals are misunderstood or sidelined. Hulya is changing that. In 2004, she founded Articulate Kids, a specialist practice delivering compassionate, evidence-based speech therapy to individuals with complex communication needs — including autism and ADHD. Her work has helped thousands of children and young people communicate, thrive, and reach their full potential, often after other services have run out of answers.As a powerful advocate for neurodiversity and a voice for systems-level change, Hulya challenges outdated models and promotes more inclusive thinking across education, healthcare and business. She also works with organisations and corporate teams to develop neuroinclusive cultures — helping leaders better understand, support and retain neurodivergent talent. Her recently launched debut book, Why Isn't My Child Talking?, is already recognised as a must-read for those navigating communication differences. Her thought leadership has been featured in The Daily Telegraph, and she consults widely with schools, businesses, and institutions. As a trained leadership coach, she brings strategic insight to communication and inclusion at every level. Hulya is part of a growing movement that's changing the way we think about neurodivergent people, not as problems to fix, but as individuals with untapped strengths, insights, and potential. Her work is helping to reshape the landscape across education, healthcare, and business, ensuring communication is not a barrier but a bridge. She's committed to building a world where all individuals — regardless of how they express themselves — are seen, supported, and empowered to thrive.In this episode, we discover the following:The importance of communication in order to connect.What is the most effective way to connect with ourselves and others?How to become more authentic in our leadership.How to move from confusion to clarity.With podcast host Mark SephtonHope you'll enjoy the episode! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Get ready for an eye-opening conversation that might just change the way you see your classroom. In this episode, Dr. Emily King—student psychologist and neurodivergent expert—shares practical, shame-free strategies to help PreK–2 teachers support students struggling with executive functioning, emotional regulation, and mental health needs.In this episode, we'll talk about:How to tell the difference between “can't” and “won't” in student behavior.Why emotional regulation must come before academic progress.Easy, effective ways to support executive functioning in young learners.What teachers can do to build stronger partnerships with parents.The one change that could revolutionize general education classrooms.Show LinksDr. Emily's Website / Substack / LinkedIn / Instagram / PodcastJoin Malia on Instagram.Become a Science of Reading Formula member!Rate, Review, and FollowIf you loved this episode, please take a minute to rate and review my show! That helps the podcast world know that this show is worth sharing with other educators just like you.Scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select "Write a Review". Then let me know what you loved most about the episode!While you're there, be sure to follow the podcast. I'm adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed and I don't want you to miss out! Follow right here.

Is it your job… or your nervous system that's about to quit?Feeling overwhelmed, misunderstood, or like the only competent one at work?Struggling to keep up with unrealistic demands while your to-do list never shrinks?Tired of taking work home—and never getting to truly rest?Wondering if it's time to rage-quit your job… or if there's another way?Learn the exact strategies I use with clients to stop the burnout spiral and take back control

Barry and Dave engage in a lively and wide-ranging discussion with educational specialist, Dr. Shelley Moore, internationally known for her progressive and value-based approach for educating neurodivergent students, and indeed, all students. The focus of the discussion is on changes that are needed to help educational systems to be neuro-affirming, inclusive, strength-based, and respectful of different learning styles.Learn more on our websiteSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Send us an email @ info@parentcoachesunleashed.com SummaryIn this episode of Parent Coaches Unleashed, hosts Jessica Anger and Carrie Wiesenfeld welcome Jane Kaufman, a mother of two young adults, one of whom is neurodivergent. The conversation explores Jane's journey navigating the complexities of raising a child with autism, the importance of community support, and the challenges of finding appropriate therapies and resources. Jane shares personal anecdotes, insights on family dynamics, and advice for parents facing similar challenges. The discussion emphasizes the significance of self-care, humor, and trusting one's instincts in the parenting journey.TakeawaysThe importance of community support for parents of neurodivergent children.Therapies and early intervention can significantly impact a child's development.Family dynamics play a crucial role in supporting neurodivergent individuals.Navigating medical professionals can be challenging; trust your instincts.Self-care is essential for parents managing overwhelming situations.It's okay to feel overwhelmed and seek help from others.Building independence in neurodivergent children is a gradual process.Sibling relationships can be complex but are vital for emotional support.Using humor can help cope with the challenges of parenting.Every child's journey is unique; avoid comparisons with others.titles

An insightful podcast episode redefines "wasted time" as a crucial act of mental autonomy, especially for those with neurodivergent minds. The host, Jennifer, connects this idea to her own experience with NVLD, explaining how structured "pause time" is essential for recharging and creative thinking. By balancing productivity tools with intentional rest, individuals can reclaim their time from hustle culture and live a more meaningful life without guilt.

If you've always managed just fine but suddenly feel like everything is falling apart in your 40s, the problem might not be perimenopause alone it could be revealing ADHD that's been masked your entire life.This conversation with therapist Mandi Dixon revealed a critical connection between ADHD and perimenopause that's leaving countless women struggling without answers. Dixon's work focuses on the intersection of neurodivergence and hormonal changes, addressing why so many women receive their first ADHD diagnosis during midlife transitions.The discussion explored how ADHD in girls and women presents differently than in boys - with internal hyperactivity like daydreaming and anxiety rather than external disruption. This leads to years of successful masking, where women learn to follow rules and appear organized while struggling internally. The hormonal support of estrogen helps maintain these coping mechanisms until perimenopause strips away that scaffolding.Dixon introduced the concept of "ugly perimenopause" - the severe mental health struggles that go beyond typical mood changes and require immediate attention. She emphasized that the highest suicide rates in women occur between ages 46-54, making this a critical period for intervention and support.The conversation highlighted how neurodivergent women experience more intense perimenopause symptoms due to nervous system sensitivity. Sensory overload becomes overwhelming - from cooking exhaust fans to children's noise levels. Rejection sensitive dysphoria, already challenging for ADHD individuals, intensifies with hormonal fluctuations, making criticism feel devastating.Dixon's therapeutic approach combines traditional counseling with EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) therapy, which uses bilateral stimulation to help reprocess trauma. This technique proves particularly effective for both mental health recovery and physical conditions like pelvic pain where trauma responses interfere with healing.The discussion addressed the "menno divorce" phenomenon, with Dixon explaining that divorce often results from pre-existing relationship issues becoming intolerable once women stop accommodating poor treatment. Perimenopause doesn't cause problems but reveals them, giving women clarity about what they will and won't accept.Dixon stressed that neurodivergent women require specialized menopause care, describing them as "orchids" who need delicate handling during hormone therapy. The combination of hormonal treatment with mental health support often provides the best outcomes, with some women needing long-term antidepressant therapy as a "safety net" alongside hormone replacement.Highlights:Why ADHD gets missed in girls due to internal vs. external symptoms.The "ugly perimenopause" requiring immediate mental health intervention.Sensory overload and rejection sensitivity intensifying with hormone changes.EMDR therapy for trauma processing and pelvic pain recovery.How menopause empowerment reveals relationship problems rather than causing them.Neurodivergent women needing specialist hormone care and patience with treatment.The importance of combining hormone therapy with mental health support.Suicide risk peaks between ages 46-54 in women.If this episode helped you understand the ADHD-perimenopause connection, help other women find this conversation by subscribing to the channel and leaving a review on Apple Podcasts. Your reviews help more women discover these important discussions about neurodivergence and hormonal health.Connect with Mandi: Website

If you tuned into this week's episode, you know we're in the thick of our executive function series—and this time, we took a deep dive into a challenge so many neurodivergent kiddos (and their parents!) know all too well: getting started. Task initiation can feel impossible for kids who are gifted, twice-exceptional, ADHD, autistic, anxious, or just generally outside-the-box thinkers. They might be able to talk your ear off about their passions, but ask them to start a five-minute worksheet, and it's like hitting a brick wall. Sound familiar? Here's the thing: your child isn't broken, and neither are you. Their brain just needs some extra scaffolding and gentle strategies—and that's exactly what we covered in this week's episode.   Key Takeaways: Start small for big wins: Break tasks into "micro steps" or “bricks.” Even something as simple as writing the date can be the first win that propels kids forward. Audit and reduce friction: Quick 5-minute “friction audits” help you and your child identify what's holding them back—be it sensory needs, unclear instructions, or missing tools—and address it before frustration builds. Model and scaffold for independence: By using techniques like body doubling (working in parallel), giving clear “done statements,” or offering guided choices, you're not just helping them now—you're equipping them with lifelong executive function skills.   If you're a parent, educator, or homeschooler supporting bright, quirky kids, this episode is a toolkit of actionable insights. Grab the Executive Function Quick Start Guide for even more resources!   Links and Resources from Today's Episode Thank you to our sponsors: CTC Math – Flexible, affordable math for the whole family! Night Zookeeper – Fun, comprehensive language arts for ages 6-12 101 Reasons Eclectic Homeschooling Works for Gifted Kids Why Smart Kids Can't Find Their Shoes (and What to Do…) Strengthening Bonds | Building Family Routines and Rituals RLL #271: Understanding Executive Function Skills in Gifted and Twice-Exceptional Children Why Movement Matters (Especially for Our Neurodivergent Kids) Helping Our Kids Self-Regulate with Sarah Collins Overcoming Sleep Struggles: Tips for Neurodiverse Families Beating Homeschool Overwhelm with Heart and Flexibility Building Flexible Thinking Skills in Your Neurodivergent Child Changing Rhythms | Homeschooling in Sync with the Seasons  

Writer's Summit October 10-12This episode is a case study on a 'big scary project' where I've been feeling a lot of overwhelm, fear, demands, and perfectionism. In it, I'm sharing with you how I process through the emotions that come with big projects like this one (shame, overwhelm, avoidance, shutdowns, meltdowns). This is an exploration on what supporting myself through it looks like, how I sniff out autonomy where I can find it, and how I'm doing things differently vs when I was younger and used adrenaline, cortisol, and fear of humiliation to get things done. (That's growth!)

Disclosure: We are part of the Amazon Affiliate/LTK Creator programs. We will receive a small commission at no cost if you purchase a book. This post may contain links to purchase books.Messy reality TV chat turns into a smart, warm conversation about disability representation in romance. Laura and Becky from Buzzing About Romance share go-to authors, tropes, and why authentic, own-voices rep matters.In this episode, we talk about how disability and mental health are portrayed on the page (beyond “love cures all”), the rise of neurodivergent heroines and heroes, chronic illness storylines, mobility device users, and thoughtful depictions of PTSD, OCD, dyslexia, Menière's disease, and more—plus a stack of recs across indie and trad romance. Perfect for readers building an inclusive, feel-good TBR.

In this episode of Converge Autism Radio, host Reid Miles sits down with Debbie Crouch, a creative wellness and therapeutic arts tutor, to explore the transformative power of art and neurodivergence. Debbie shares her story of being discouraged from pursuing art as a child, only to reclaim creativity later in life as a tool for healing and connection. She discusses how neurodivergence can be reframed as a gift, the role of imagination in resilience, and the importance of telling our stories to remind others they are not alone. Debbie is also a co-author of Beyond the Ordinary, a collection of stories from neurodiverse and creative women. Learn more about her work at www.creativewellnessjourney.co.uk.www.springbrookbehavioral.comwww.convergeautism.comwww.allabilitiesnofilter.com

Sara Hartley was diagnosed with Lyme Disease in 2021 and is the founder of Echo Parenting, a parenting community that employs her ALIGN Method for staying grounded in moments of overwhelm when raising children who suffer from ADHD, autism, anxiety and other neurodivergent disorders.  Her upcoming 13-book series, "Purposefully Me," is a children's series that redefines how we teach emotional wellness, neurodiversity and confidence at home. Learn more at https://saralewishartley.com If you enjoyed this episode, you might also like: The Optimal Life: Ep. 214 - Dr. Tenesha Wards :: Overcoming Dysfunctional Medicine  

In part two, Ben and sleep expert Dr. Nerina Ramlakhan dive into the practical side of sleep. They discuss how parents of neurodivergent children can better support rest, the most common questions on sleep, and why it's the “golden thread” that unites everything.Nerina unpacks the science of dreams, the role of our senses, and shares practical tips - from sleeping in new places to strategies for emotional regulation. With warmth and wisdom, she reveals how small, intentional choices can transform the way we rest.CW: Mental health and abuse00:00 Introduction1:05 Sleep Tips for Parents of Neurodivergent Kids2:46 The Corporate World & Creating a Safe Nervous System3:31 The Most Common Questions About Sleep Answered5:08 How to Change Unhealthy Sleep Behaviours6:29 Sleep as the Golden Thread That Unites Everything7:58 Why Do We Dream? The Science Behind It9:12 How Long Do Dreams Actually Last?10:16 Dreams vs. Nightmares: What's the Difference?11:07 How Sights, Sounds & Smells Impact Sleep15:40 Touch & Sleep: Best Accessories for Better Rest16:50 Dr. Nerina's Top Tips for Sleeping in a New Place19:43 Emotional Regulation & Setting Boundaries for Better Sleep22:41 Dr. Nerina's Green Dot Badge_________On "The Hidden 20%," host Ben Branson chats with neurodivergent [ADHD, Autism, Dyscalculia, Dyslexia, Dyspraxia, Tourette's etc.] creatives, entrepreneurs, and experts to see how great minds.. think differently.Host: Ben BransonProduction Manager: Phoebe De LeiburnéVideo Editor: James ScrivenSocial Media Manager: Charlie YoungMusic: Jackson GreenbergBrought to you by charity The Hidden 20% #1203348______________Follow & subscribe…Website: www.hidden20.orgInstagram / TikTok / Youtube / X: @Hidden20charityBen Branson @seedlip_benDr. Nerina Ramlakhan @drnerinaIf you'd like to support The Hidden 20%, you can buy a "green dot" badge at https://www.hidden20.org/thegreendot/p/badge. All proceeds go to the charity. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Latest up from Spoken Label (Poetry / Artist Podcast) features Lee McShane.Lee McShane is a Neurodivergent actor, filmmaker, and published writer and poet from Newcastle upon Tyne, UK. His work often blends psychological horror with themes of mental health, creating emotionally charged and thought-provoking narratives. His writing has appeared in All Your Stories, All Your Poems, and the PoeticEdge Fantasy Anthology. He will appear in Rise of the Badger and the Great Shrubbery by Black Eye Publishing.

Send us a textEvery kids is unique, but dyslexic kids share certain similarities. Why it's important to treat each child as the individual that they are.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

In this twenty-third episode of  'THE ND THRIVE GUIDE' we have amazing the Dr Emma Offord a Clinical Psychologist and the founder of Divergent Life, a neuroaffirming service that exists outside of the traditional medical model. Emma specialises in working with autistic and ADHD people, particularly late-identified women and families, offering assessments, coaching, and programmes that support nervous system regulation and self-understanding.    Owen and Emma discuss how a holistic Neurodivergent Assessment can be so powerful. We also dive into the importance of the body within the Neurodivergent experiences. We dive into the nervous system, somatic practices and trauma. All through a ND lens. Thank you Emma.    WHAT IS THE ND THRIVE GUIDE 'ND Thrive Guide' Series, we will explore how to live a full, thriving and authentic life with our Neurodivergent Brain. A show all about hope and growth. Tips, advice and ideas from coaches, therapists and experts. Thank you to all our experts. MORE ON Emma Check out Emma's links -  Website - https://www.divergentlife.co.uk/ Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/divergent-life-6a4066243/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/divergentlives/ Linktree for all other resources and links - https://linktr.ee/divergentlife   ND & Free is in partnership with Ankhway Mushroom Gummies. A tasty supplement with 10 functional mushrooms bundled in a gummy. They can help with gaining shaper focus, a clearer mind, a more balanced mood, a natural energy boost and so much more. Enjoy 15% of your order at checkout with code 'OWEN15'. Find out more about the gummies at www.ankhway.com    More about The ND & FREE Podcast series Welcome back to the ND & FREE podcast brought to you by the Awareness Space Network. A podcast and social media platform that explores how ND'ers can live their truth and feel free in their lives. We hear from inspiring COACHES, THERAPISTS, EXPERTS AND FELLOW ND'ers from all over the world, who sit down with me Owen Morgan to share their wisdom with us.  Our mission is to explore how the human spirit and understanding our whole self can bring us a life full of possibilities Check out our website https://www.ndandfree.com/ Follow our instagram and TikTok for information, facts and useful content in and around Adhd, Autism and AuDHD. - Instagram https://www.instagram.com/nd_and_free/  TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@nd_and_free?_t=8scJhGZ4Sp6&_r=1  These conversations are not a substitute for professional medical or therapeutic support. Please seek support from professionals trained within Neurodiversity support. Listen to episodes with care. Keep up to date with our latest posts on Instagram. Thank you for supporting the show,  Owen

This is a reshare of my interview with Jess Leondiou, originally featured on Make Your Mind podcast.I am grateful to Jess for graciously allowing me to repost our conversation from earlier this year.About Make Your Mind PodcastHow do our minds really work? How different are we from one another? What is the science behind our interactions, and how do we fit into the larger collective of consciousness? Make Your Mind explores these profound questions with curiosity and dedication to expanding our understanding of ourselves and the world. Jess brings together experts from various fields - those who study the science of the mind, experts in self-inquiry, and thought leaders with social and cultural insights - for conversations that unpack these evolving topics.Our ConversationIn her beautiful introduction, Jess reflects on how diagnosis impacts our sense of self. She explores the complex territory between finding relief and validation in labels, while also noticing how they can shift our self-perception. As research shows (Dweck), what we believe about ourselves profoundly shapes our behavior, and the language we use becomes central to how we operate.Thank you again, Jess, for this meaningful conversation and for the care you bring to exploring the breadth of human experience!!Originally featured on Make Your Mind podcast : https://creators.spotify.com/pod/profile/makeyourmind/episodes/Emotional-Sensitivity--Intensity-For-the-Neurodivergent-and-Gifted-Adult--with-Imi-Lo-e33ak1nPlease do check out her wonderful work as well! Archley's: https://www.archleys.com/pages/about-us?srsltid=AfmBOoquQqTW2HRBvOofa--49rkIqDCTLQU6qfcOXnxtuCG8rOmj9k0BEggshell Therapy and Coaching: eggshelltherapy.com About Imi Lo: www.imiloimilo.comInstagram:https://www.instagram.com/eggshelltherapy_imilo/ Newsletters: https://eepurl.com/bykHRzDisclaimers: https://www.eggshelltherapy.com/disclaimers Trigger Warning: This episode may cover sensitive topics including but not limited to suicide, abuse, violence, severe mental illnesses, relationship challenges, sex, drugs, alcohol addiction, psychedelics, and the use of plant medicines. You are advised to refrain from watching or listening to the YouTube Channel or Podcast if you are likely to be offended or adversely impacted by any of these topics. Disclaimer: The content provided is for informational purposes only. Please do not consider any of the content clinical or professional advice. None of the content can substitute mental health intervention. Opinions and views expressed by the host and the guests are personal views and they reserve the right to change their opinions. We also cannot guarantee that everything mentioned is factual and completely accurate. Any action you take based on the information in this episode is taken at your own risk.

Welcome to the Personal Development Trailblazers Podcast! In today's episode, we're talking about how neurodivergent folks can release shame and declutter their homes to create a calm and functional living environment.Christina is the founder of Your Organised Lady, a judgment-free professional decluttering and organising service designed especially for women with ADHD. Christina uses a combination of coaching techniques and organisational methods in order to help clients create bespoke designed systems that work well with their brains. Drawing from neurodivergent experience ADHD, autism, and dyslexia, she empowers overwhelmed professional mums to create calm, functional homes so they can reclaim their energy, focus, and confidence. Connect with Christina Here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christina-hardy-b6b823338/https://www.instagram.com/yourorganisedladyhttps://www.facebook.com/groups/adhdunicornshttps://www.facebook.com/christina.hardy.9http://www.yourorganisedlady.co.ukGrab the freebie here: https://your-organised-lady.sender.site/===================================If you enjoyed this episode, remember to hit the like button and subscribe. Then share this episode with your friends.Thanks for watching the Personal Development Trailblazers Podcast. This podcast is part of the Digital Trailblazer family of podcasts. To learn more about Digital Trailblazer and what we do to help entrepreneurs, go to DigitalTrailblazer.com.Are you a coach, consultant, expert, or online course creator? Then we'd love to invite you to our FREE Facebook Group where you can learn the best strategies to land more high-ticket clients and customers. QUICK LINKS: APPLY TO BE FEATURED: https://app.digitaltrailblazer.com/podcast-guest-applicationDIGITAL TRAILBLAZER: https://digitaltrailblazer.com/

The guys discuss Woolworth’s Big W struggles, Cettire’s horror earnings announcement, the benefits of neurodiversity, Dan Andrews’ China vacation and chat to Dave Hyman founder of Lendi, Australia’s low profile unicorn. Thanks for listening! Join us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-contrarians-with-adam-and-adir-podcast Subscribe on YouTube for all our video content: https://https://www.youtube.com/@ContrariansPodcast Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/contrarianspod Follow us on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@contrarianspodSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Suicide is the leading cause of death for Australians aged 15 to 44.

Struggling with chaotic mornings—especially with neurodivergent, gifted, or twice-exceptional kiddos? You're not alone! This week's episode of the podcast dives deep into practical strategies for establishing morning routines that truly work for your unique family.   Here are 3 key takeaways from this episode: Ditch the “One-Size-Fits-All” Approach: Neurodivergent kids break the mold! Traditional checklists and rigid schedules can actually increase stress. Instead, focus on finding rhythms and anchors that guide your morning rather than the clock. Externalize Time & Reduce Decision Fatigue: Many kids (and adults!) experience “time blindness.” Support them by using visual timers, playlists, or analog clocks, and prepping choices the night before to streamline mornings and cut down on stress. Prioritize Movement, Regulation, and Connection: Mornings run smoother when you weave in brief movement breaks, sensory supports, and moments of connection before tackling big tasks. These micro-habits help everyone launch into the day feeling regulated and ready.   Want more practical tools? There's a free download in the episode with sample morning routines and rhythm cards—perfect for building routines that are realistic and sustainable!   Let's make mornings kinder for everyone—especially YOU, the parent.   Links and Resources from Today's Episode Thank you to our sponsors: CTC Math – Flexible, affordable math for the whole family! Night Zookeeper – Fun, comprehensive language arts for ages 6-12   Why Smart Kids Can't Find Their Shoes (and What to Do…) Strengthening Bonds | Building Family Routines and Rituals RLL #271: Understanding Executive Function Skills in Gifted and Twice-Exceptional Children Why Movement Matters (Especially for Our Neurodivergent Kids) Helping Our Kids Self-Regulate with Sarah Collins Overcoming Sleep Struggles: Tips for Neurodiverse Families Beating Homeschool Overwhelm with Heart and Flexibility Building Flexible Thinking Skills in Your Neurodivergent Child Changing Rhythms | Homeschooling in Sync with the Seasons 101 Reasons Eclectic Homeschooling Works for Gifted Kids  

Send us a textIn this episode of the Men's ADHD Support Group webinar series, join Shane Thrapp and our amazing guest as we discuss the challenge of making friends as adults with ADHD. Featuring Caroline Maguire, author and friendship expert, the discussion covers why forming meaningful relationships can be difficult and provides practical, easy-to-use solutions. Caroline shares her insights on adult friendships, the importance of authenticity, and the strategies for building and nurturing connections. We also touch on the concept of masking, the role of shared activities, and recognizing when someone is interested in being your friend.  We had so much fun with this episode and Caroline provided valuable tools and techniques for creating lasting and genuine friendships.About CarolineCaroline Maguire, ACCG, PCC, M.Ed., is an award‑winning coach, teacher, and keynote speaker focused on social‑emotional learning, executive functioning, and friendship skills. She's the author of Why Will No One Play With Me?—an award‑winning guide for kids and parents. Check out our website for great blogs, information, and upcoming events! Men's ADHD Support Group Website If you identify as male and have ADHD Join our Facebook Group!And follow us on all of our other social media! Our Facebook Page Our Instagram Our Youtube: Our Twitter Our TikTok Our LinkedIn

The future of work is here — and it's neurodivergent. In this powerful conversation, Kwame Christian sits down with disability lawyer and neurodiversity advocate Laura Greenberg to explore why embracing neurodiversity is no longer optional — it's a competitive advantage. You'll discover: Why assumption is the risk when it comes to managing people How neurodiversity shapes communication, conflict resolution, and innovation The real reason some body language cues can be misleading — and how to avoid costly misreads How leaders can build psychological safety so everyone can bring their authentic selves to work What happens to companies that fail to adapt (and why Gen Z won't work for them) Whether you lead a team, negotiate deals, or simply want to understand people better, this episode will challenge the way you see communication forever. Discount code "KWAME" gives 30% discount over 3 months TL;DR what is folk? folk is a CRM, and extension, that helps businesses build real relationships and close deals. Why is folk better? folk is simple, integrated, and proactive to use. folk's value proposition? folk CRM does the busy work for you, so you can focus on growing your service business. folk's tagline folk, like the sales assistant your team never had What product details will most excite your audience? • ⁠⁠⁠Our seamless integrations with social channels⁠⁠⁠ • ⁠⁠⁠Our 1-click Enrichment that finds contact details for y⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠ou⁠⁠⁠ • ⁠⁠⁠Know the best leads to reach out to with AI Follow-up⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠s⁠⁠⁠ Useful links & resources •⁠⁠⁠ folk's website⁠⁠⁠ •⁠⁠⁠ folk's Linkedin⁠⁠⁠ • ⁠⁠⁠Simo, our CEO's, LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠ • ⁠⁠⁠folk's Youtube⁠⁠ Connect with Laura brickergraydon.com Contact ANI ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Request A Customized Workshop For Your Company⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow Kwame Christian on LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠negotiateanything.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Click here to buy your copy of Finding Confidence in Conflict: How to Negotiate Anything and Live Your Best Life!

A diverse world is a happy world. It may seem that neurodivergent people are more common now, but the increase in diagnoses is attributed to awareness and diagnostic tools, not a rise in the population. Neurodivergence is a distinct way of experiencing the world, with many neurodivergent individuals successfully thriving in a society traditionally designed for neurotypicals. This shift in perspective celebrates the full spectrum of humanity and recognizes that a world that accommodates and celebrates all types of minds is a richer and happier one.A diverse world is a happy world. It may seem that neurodivergent people are more common now, but the increase in diagnoses is attributed to awareness and diagnostic tools, not a rise in the population. Neurodivergence is a distinct way of experiencing the world, with many neurodivergent individuals successfully thriving in a society traditionally designed for neurotypicals. This shift in perspective celebrates the full spectrum of humanity and recognizes that a world that accommodates and celebrates all types of minds is a richer and happier one. Sol, drawing from his personal experience as a diagnosed autistic adult, wrote The Autistic's Guide to Self-Discovery: Flourishing as a Neurodivergent Adult to raise awareness about the differences between neurodivergent and neurotypical people. His book shares how he has successfully navigated and thrived in a neurotypical world.This episode is proudly sponsored by:BetterHelp—Offers convenient and affordable professional therapy made simple. Listeners get 10% off their 1st month at BetterHelp.com/HarvestingHappiness Like what you're hearing?WANT MORE SOUND IDEAS FOR DEEPER THINKING? Check out More Mental Fitness by Harvesting Happiness bonus content available exclusively on Substack and Medium.

After a (too long) summer break we are back with a new series!Our guest this week is an absolute legend of British comedy - Marcus Brigstocke.Marcus is dyslexic and we talked to him about our joint love of words.If you enjoyed this then do check out Marcus on tour doing his new show, Vitruvian Mango. You can buy tickets here: https://www.offthekerb.com/on-tour/?otk_artist=Marcus+Brigstocke&otk_postcode=&otk_date=Also check out Joe's tour which starts next month, tickets are on sale here:https://www.livenation.co.uk/artist-joe-wells-1394683There's a longer version of this podcast and a LOAD of extras from previous series available at www.patreon.com/neurodivergentmomentspod This show can only exist because of our Patreon supporters so, if you can afford it, please do consider a monthly donation.If you've had a Neurodivergent moment you're happy to share with us then email neurodivergentmomentspod@gmail.comMusic by Savan De Paul check out their work on Bandcamp!Audio and Visual Production: Oliver Farrow Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Disability Deep Dive, hosts Keith and Jodi are joined by Dr. Lisa Meeks, founder of the Docs with Disabilities Initiative. They explore how medical education can better support learners and clinicians with disabilities, discussing the initiative's origins, challenges faced by disabled learners, and practical steps for creating inclusive environments. They also examine the impact of disability representation on patient care and delve into a related TV show, The Pitt, highlighting a neurodivergent resident's approach to care. This episode underscores the importance of storytelling, policy transparency, and inclusive practices in transforming medical training and care. Docs with Disabilities Initiative: https://www.docswithdisabilities.org 

The future of work is here — and it's neurodivergent. In this powerful conversation, Kwame Christian sits down with disability lawyer and neurodiversity advocate Laura Greenberg to explore why embracing neurodiversity is no longer optional — it's a competitive advantage. You'll discover: Why assumption is the risk when it comes to managing people How neurodiversity shapes communication, conflict resolution, and innovation The real reason some body language cues can be misleading — and how to avoid costly misreads How leaders can build psychological safety so everyone can bring their authentic selves to work What happens to companies that fail to adapt (and why Gen Z won't work for them) Whether you lead a team, negotiate deals, or simply want to understand people better, this episode will challenge the way you see communication forever. Discount code "KWAME" gives 30% discount over 3 months TL;DR what is folk? folk is a CRM, and extension, that helps businesses build real relationships and close deals. Why is folk better? folk is simple, integrated, and proactive to use. folk's value proposition? folk CRM does the busy work for you, so you can focus on growing your service business. folk's tagline folk, like the sales assistant your team never had What product details will most excite your audience? • ⁠⁠⁠Our seamless integrations with social channels⁠⁠⁠ • ⁠⁠⁠Our 1-click Enrichment that finds contact details for y⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠ou⁠⁠⁠ • ⁠⁠⁠Know the best leads to reach out to with AI Follow-up⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠s⁠⁠⁠ Useful links & resources •⁠⁠⁠ folk's website⁠⁠⁠ •⁠⁠⁠ folk's Linkedin⁠⁠⁠ • ⁠⁠⁠Simo, our CEO's, LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠ • ⁠⁠⁠folk's Youtube⁠⁠ Connect with Laura brickergraydon.com Contact ANI ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Request A Customized Workshop For Your Company⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow Kwame Christian on LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠negotiateanything.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Click here to buy your copy of Finding Confidence in Conflict: How to Negotiate Anything and Live Your Best Life!

A diverse world is a happy world. It may seem that neurodivergent people are more common now, but the increase in diagnoses is attributed to awareness and diagnostic tools, not a rise in the population. Neurodivergence is a distinct way of experiencing the world, with many neurodivergent individuals successfully thriving in a society traditionally designed for neurotypicals. This shift in perspective celebrates the full spectrum of humanity and recognizes that a world that accommodates and celebrates all types of minds is a richer and happier one.A diverse world is a happy world. It may seem that neurodivergent people are more common now, but the increase in diagnoses is attributed to awareness and diagnostic tools, not a rise in the population. Neurodivergence is a distinct way of experiencing the world, with many neurodivergent individuals successfully thriving in a society traditionally designed for neurotypicals. This shift in perspective celebrates the full spectrum of humanity and recognizes that a world that accommodates and celebrates all types of minds is a richer and happier one. Sol, drawing from his personal experience as a diagnosed autistic adult, wrote The Autistic's Guide to Self-Discovery: Flourishing as a Neurodivergent Adult to raise awareness about the differences between neurodivergent and neurotypical people. His book shares how he has successfully navigated and thrived in a neurotypical world.This episode is proudly sponsored by:BetterHelp—Offers convenient and affordable professional therapy made simple. Listeners get 10% off their 1st month at BetterHelp.com/HarvestingHappiness Like what you're hearing?WANT MORE SOUND IDEAS FOR DEEPER THINKING? Check out More Mental Fitness by Harvesting Happiness bonus content available exclusively on Substack and Medium.

In this episode of The Neurodivergent Experience, Simon Scott is joined by returning co-host Jordan James for a deep dive into advocacy, self-acceptance, and the power of knowledge in navigating neurodivergence.Jordan opens up about his personal journey from struggling with self-hatred after his autism diagnosis to embracing advocacy through writing, photography, and public speaking. Simon shares his own growth — from imposter syndrome to proudly advocating for himself at a music festival, where creating safe spaces and speaking openly about his needs led to connection, healing, and empowerment.Together, Jordan and Simon discuss:The importance of self-advocacy and setting boundaries in daily lifeWhy knowledge is power when navigating diagnoses, accommodations, and medical systemsThe emotional impact of hearing “you're not alone” through books, podcasts, and neurodivergent communitiesParenting while neurodivergent: raising autistic/ADHD kids with patience, advocacy, and self-compassionHow representation, honesty, and positivity (without toxic positivity) change the way neurodivergent people see themselvesThe ripple effect of advocacy — inspiring others, from children in classrooms to entire families, to embrace their neurodivergenceWhether you're exploring your diagnosis, learning to advocate for yourself, or supporting loved ones, this heartfelt conversation offers validation, encouragement, and practical tools to help you feel seen and empowered.❤️ Support the ShowIf this episode resonated with you:✅ Follow or Subscribe to The Neurodivergent Experience⭐ Leave a quick review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify

What if the biggest barrier to great leadership isn't lack of training, but trying to fit into someone else's mold? Executive coach Rita Ramakrishnan reveals why the "one right way" to lead is actually holding back your team's potential. Rita shares her journey from struggling in rigid consulting environments to thriving as a C-suite leader by embracing her neurodivergence. You'll discover practical strategies for creating psychological safety, turning "performance problems" into communication solutions, and helping every team member - neurotypical or neurodivergent - bring their best work. Whether you're trying to figure out your own leadership style or unlock hidden potential in your team, this conversation will change how you think about what makes leadership truly effective. Follow The Made Leader for more leadership insights and strategies. Connect with Rita: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ritaram/ or her website: www.iksana.com For links mentioned, visit www.growthsignals.co

What does it mean to choose a wholeness paradigm instead of a pathology lens when it comes to neuro-affirming care? In this episode, I sit down with the brilliant Nyck Walsh to explore what happens when we bring compassion, authenticity, and somatics into the conversation about neurodivergence. Together, we touch into the radical permission it takes to be fully human and to rest into identities that have often been misunderstood or pathologized.We explore the relief, grief, and even terror that can arise with late-in-life neurodivergent identification—and the profound sense of liberation that can come with finally having language for who we are. Nyck shares what it means to honor authenticity beneath masking, to unpack internalized ableism, and to reconnect with innate wisdom that has always been there, waiting to be trusted.Our conversation also weaves in the intersections of privilege and oppression, the deep longing for belonging, and the all-too-common question: “Am I ___ enough?” Together, we name how neurodivergent folks often carry both tremendous courage and tremendous vulnerability as they navigate authenticity, safety, and connection in a neurotypical-dominant world.You'll also hear about Nyck's model of Neurodivergent Somatics, his international counselor education programs, and his forthcoming book with Norton Professional Books, Neurodivergent Somatics and Therapy: an anti-oppressive model for whole person care (March 2026).This is a conversation filled with tenderness, truth, and courage - an invitation to see neurodivergence not as something broken or deficient, but as whole, wise, and worthy.About NyckNyck Walsh (he/they) brings a whole person, anti-oppressive, intersectional somatic lens to working with Autistic and KCS/VAST (more affirming language for “ADHD”) folks. A white, Autistic, VAST, queer, and trans counselor, Nyck is the director of the Nyck Walsh Counseling & Training Center and creator of the Neurodivergent Somatics model.He curates reparative experiences for late-identified Autistic and KCS/VAST people to connect with their innate wisdom, dismantle ableism, be supported through challenges, and make meaning of their misunderstood neurodivergent experiences. His counselor education programs have attracted an international following, with both neurodivergent and neurotypical counselors alike reporting that they feel deeply supported and validated by his approach.While being human brings no shortage of complexity, Nyck delights in frolicking in nature and living among the trees with his four-legged bestie in the mountains of what is colonially known as Colorado.Find out more at his website: nyckwalsh.comFor the transcript of this episode, please visit (you will find it below the episode description):www.shelby-leigh.com/podcasts/neurodivergent-somatics-with-nyck-walshAnd, if you're interested in an assessment or 1:1 work with Shelby, you can find out more here:⁠shelby-leigh.com/autism-and-adhd-assessments⁠⁠shelby-leigh.com/one-on-one-healing-support⁠If you're a therapist or coach, you might like to check out Shelby's Body of Work program - open for enrolment for another week - 9 months of support for practitioners to bring their whole, human selves, not just the professional persona.shelby-leigh.com/body-of-work

Disempowered to Empowered: Meltdowns, Boundaries & Donuts   In this heartfelt episode, Patricia (she/her) shares three powerful personal stories that highlight the challenges—and wins—that come with being a sensitive, creative, neurodivergent human. From navigating family dynamics around living arrangements, to reclaiming power after a disempowering volunteer experience, and even exploring the emotional depth behind a simple craving for an apple fritter, Patricia offers an intimate and validating glimpse into what it's like to be an AuDHDer who feels things deeply—and still chooses to show up.   KEY TAKEAWAYS ·      You don't need to justify your needs. “They don't have to understand why I need two months. I just do.” ·      High masking + high empathy often = emotional invisibility. You're not alone if you feel overlooked or undervalued. ·      Internalizers often seem fine while falling apart inside—naming your pain out loud is a radical act of self-love. ·      Disempowerment doesn't mean you're weak. It often comes from past trauma, sensory overload, or lack of support. ·      Communication isn't always immediate. It's okay if clarity or assertiveness comes a day (or three) later. ·      There's no such thing as “too sensitive”—just systems that weren't built for your needs.   HIGHLIGHTS   ·       Patricia emphasizes the importance of asserting one's needs without feeling apologetic. ·       She shares her experience of feeling disempowered in family dynamics and how she navigated that. ·       The conversation highlights the challenges of communication in relationships, especially for neurodivergent individuals. ·       Patricia discusses the significance of volunteering and how it contributes to her sense of empowerment. ·       She reflects on the internal struggles (and unrealistic desire) of wanting others to understand her needs without explicit communication. ·       The importance of processing emotions and taking time to understand one's feelings is emphasized. ·       Patricia shares her journey of finding strength in her volunteering experience with horses. ·       She discusses the impact of trauma on her ability to communicate effectively. ·       The conversation touches on the theme of sensitivity being a unique aspect of one's identity, not something to apologize for. ·       Patricia encourages listeners to embrace their sensitivity and understand its value.   SOUND BITES "I need to have a meltdown." "It's my responsibility." "I felt seen and I felt heard." "I think we've learned to just detach from our feelings, to dissociate, and go along to get along—but it just doesn't work for us anymore." SENSITIVITY IS NOTHING TO APOLOGIZE FOR; IT'S HOW YOUR BRAIN IS WIRED You are not broken. You were shaped by systems that weren't built for you. You deserve rest, joy, and support exactly as you are.   TOPICS COVERED  ·       Autistic meltdowns & internal regulation: How Patricia recognized an impending meltdown and advocated for space and support. ·       Family boundaries & accommodation: The emotional toll of giving up a beloved workspace, and the grief that often goes unseen. ·       Losing & reclaiming joy: When creative hobbies fade and space feels scarce, how do you reconnect with yourself? ·       Assertiveness without apology: Speaking up about needs, even when it's hard, awkward, or overdue. ·       Feeling invisible in groups: Disempowerment during horse volunteer training and the journey to feeling confident and capable again. ·       Processing delays & trauma: Why it sometimes takes days to realize something didn't feel okay—and that's valid. ·       The donut story (yes, it matters): What a pastry can teach us about needs, unmet expectations, and healthy communication. ·       Relational repair & emotional safety: The delicate dance of vulnerability, misunderstanding, and being met with care. ·       The problem with people-pleasing: When masking and fawning keep you from honoring your own feelings. ·       What sensitivity really means: Reframing neurodivergent traits as strengths, not flaws. PODCAST HOST Patricia (she/her) was a Licensed Clinical Social Worker for over 17 years, but she is now exclusively providing coaching. She knows what it's like to feel like an outcast, misfit, and truthteller.  Learning about the trait of being a Highly Sensitive Person (HSP), then learning she is AuDHD with a PDA profile, OCD and RSD, helped Patricia rewrite her history with a deeper understanding, appreciation, and a sense of self-compassion.  She created the podcasts Unapologetically Sensitive and Unapologetically AuDHD to help other neurodivergent folks know that they aren't alone, and that having a brain that is wired differently comes with amazing gifts, and some challenges.  Patricia works online globally working individually with people, and she teaches Online Courses for neurodivergent folks that focus on understanding what it means to be a sensitive neurodivergent. Topics covered include: self-care, self-compassion, boundaries, perfectionism, mindfulness, communication, and creating a lifestyle that honors you Patricia's website, podcast episodes and more: twww.unapologeticallysensitive.com   LINKS  To write a review in itunes: click on this link https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/unapologetically-sensitive/id1440433481?mt=2 select “listen on Apple Podcasts” chose “open in itunes” choose “ratings and reviews” click to rate the number of starts click “write a review”Website--www.unapologeticallysensitive.com Facebook-- https://www.facebook.com/Unapologetically-Sensitive-2296688923985657/ Closed/Private Facebook group Unapologetically Sensitive-- https://www.facebook.com/groups/2099705880047619/ Instagram-- https://www.instagram.com/unapologeticallysensitive/ Youtube-- https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCOE6fodj7RBdO3Iw0NrAllg/videos?view_as=subscriber Tik Tok--https://www.tiktok.com/@unapologeticallysensitiv Podcast UnapologeticallyAuDHD-- https://unapologeticallysensitive.com/unapologeticallyaudhd/  e-mail-- unapologeticallysensitive@gmail.com Show hashtag--#unapologeticallysensitive Music-- Gravel Dance by Andy Robinson www.andyrobinson.com  

Host of “Retrain Your Brain” on Psychology Today, with a Master's in School Psychology, Lisa Sheinhouse meets with Bryce Hamilton... The post Parenting Neurodivergent Children with Lisa Sheinhouse appeared first on WebTalkRadio.net.

Parenting a child who melts down no matter how hard you try can feel draining and lonely. You've done the time-outs, taken away privileges, tried the sticker charts—and yet the child's behavior keeps coming back.Instead of helping, those strategies sometimes make things worse, leaving you wondering if you're doing something wrong. You're not alone, and it's not bad parenting—it's a dysregulated brain.In this episode, I'm breaking down why traditional discipline backfires on sensitive or neurodivergent kids, and what actually works instead. I'll give you practical strategies to calm the nervous system first, show you why connection always beats punishment, and teach you how to build the problem solving skills your child truly needs.Why doesn't time-out work for my neurodivergent child?If you've ever sent your child to time-out only to have the meltdown get worse, you're not imagining it. For many neurodivergent kids, time outs don't feel like teaching—they feel like rejection. And instead of calming down, their nervous system ramps up even more.Research shows that parents use time-outs inconsistently, and the reality is, they're often applied when a child is already at peak emotional dysregulation. In that state, the brain can't process or learn. Many neurodivergent kids experience shame, anxiety, or even sensory overload instead of gaining self-control.Here's what's really happening:Time-outs miss the teachable moment because kids are too dysregulated to reflect.Sensitive children feel wrong or rejected, which can trigger bigger power struggles.Connection is the game changer, because safety is what allows real emotional regulation.So if time-outs keep backfiring in your family, it isn't about bad parenting. It's not bad parenting—it's a dysregulated brain.How can I stay calm when my child is melting down?I know how exhausting it feels when your child is screaming, crying, or refusing to listen. In those moments, your own nervous system wants to react—but here's the truth: your calm is your child's calm. This is why I call parents the emotional anchor.When you regulate yourself first, you model the very skill your child is struggling to build. You don't need to get it right 100% of the time—aiming for 80% is more than enough. Perfection isn't required for growth, and reminding yourself of that can reduce the pressure and pain you carry as a mom or dad.A few ways to anchor yourself:Pause before reacting. Even 30 seconds of breathing can calm your nervous system.Check your body language. Slow down, soften your tone, and relax your shoulders.Co-regulate first. Teaching happens later—after your child feels safe and understood.

An episode guaranteed to stop you in your tracks. Brandon and Lindsy sit down with Katie Asher, whose son Houston—a non-speaking autistic young man—opened a supernatural window into identity, frequency, faith, and healing. From vaccine injury to the mystery of the Hill, from church hurt to spiritual gifts most believers can't even fathom, this is not just a testimony—it's a paradigm shift. If you've ever questioned the nature of communication, healing, or what it means to believe God in the hardest places, don't miss this one.Purchase the book The Book of Heaven: https://a.co/d/54RdAGQFind recommended links on website: https://www.asher.house/our-services-1Follow our social channels and learn more here: https://linktr.ee/asherhousehope

Hard truth: work wasn't built for all of us to thrive.  Neurodivergent folks seem to deal with a lot of norms when they aren't the problem—the systems are.  I'm joined by Tameka Allen, founder of ModCulture and all-around brilliance-unlocker, to talk about how workplace “norms” actually exclude, alienate, and erase so many people.  From the myth of “professionalism” to the way orgs treat neurodivergence as a personal issue instead of a design flaw, we're pulling no punches.  If you've ever side-eyed a workplace policy and thought, “who is this even for?” this one's for you! 0:01:55 - One Hard Truth About Work 0:02:57 - What Does Being Neurodivergent Mean? 0:05:43 - A Workplace Norm We've Accepted as Normal that Wasn't Built With Neurodivergent People in Mind 0:10:28 - Why Orgs Treat Neurodiversity Like a Personal Issue Instead of a Systems Issue 0:26:19 - How Does Professionalism Become a Code Word For Conformity and Masking? 0:35:02 - Workplace “Norms” to be Aware of That Alienate Employees 0:46:13 - Myths About Neurodivergence at Work That Need to End 0:50:23 - What Would an Ideal Workplace Look Like? Fortunately, you don't have to choose between investing in people programs and consolidating your tech stack. With Lattice, you can have both. Visit ⁠⁠lattice.com⁠⁠ to learn more. And if you love I Hate It Here, sign up to Hebba's newsletter! It's for jaded, overworked, and emotionally burnt-out HR/People Operations professionals needing a little inspiration. https://workweek.com/discover-newsletters/i-hate-it-here-newsletter/   And if you love the podcast, be sure to check out  https://www.youtube.com/@ihateit-here for even more exclusive insider content!   Follow Tameka: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tamekanallen/ Follow Hebba:  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ihateit-here/videos LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/hebba-youssef Twitter: https://twitter.com/hebbamyoussef

Is your brain constantly sorting everything into two neat little buckets? "Good" or "bad"? "Success" or "failure"? Ooof! Honestly, saaaame. So, let's talk about it!In this episode, Caitlin shares their take black and white thinking—what it is, where it comes from, and why it's so freaking stressful. They also get super real about their own brain, which they lovingly describes as "The Good Place, but worse" lol. If you can relate to having yout simple decisions spiral into a complex web of moral dilemmas, better grab a seat coz this one's for you! "It's not likely that every single person in the world is going to either be a perfectly happy, healthy relationship...That doesn't mean that we're sorting people into only two buckets, because when it's only two buckets... that's so isolating and lonely and critical and it's not healthy for us." - CaitlinYou'll totally learn:What black and white thinking is and why it's so common for neurodivergent peopleHow black and white thinking often comes from trauma and the need to learn strict rules to surviveWhy even simple decisions can feel overwhelming when your brain assigns moral value to every optionHow to find relief from the constant onslaught of information from our phones and the newsOooh! Plus, a fun and surprisingly relevant side quest involving caterpillars! Links mentioned in this episode:

In this episode, I share a life update on Marty, and a message for parents of  sensitive and neurodivergent kids. I also share how a client's son continues to give her signs from the Other Side. In this episode: Spiritual karaoke (the song didn't play loudly, so my singing was really front and center lol) Authenticity, masking & being “too much” Parenting sensitive & neurodivergent kids Reminder for your inner child Update on Marty Client mediumship story & Spirit signs Opening your heart to messages from Spirit The Bridge 5D Ascension Akashic Records Self-Study Course FREE REPLAY: Empowered by the River of Peace Healing Experience Sunday, June 29th Meet Your High Frequency Ancestors Healing Ceremony $22 USD Submit a question to be answered on the podcast   Sign up for my newsletter to stay informed on all classes, trainings, and healing experiences FREE "Meet Your Inner Child" Reiki Meditation 10% OFF All Workout Witch Programs for somatic healing with code ORACLELIGHTWORKER at checkout Get a free sample pack of LMNT with your order   Instagram: @oraclelightworker Email: oraclelightworkerhealing@gmail.com Website: www.oraclelightworker.podia.com      

You're listening to Burnt Toast! Today, my guest is Ash Brandin of Screen Time Strategies, also know as The Gamer Educator on Instagram. Ash is also the author of a fantastic new book, Power On: Managing Screen Time to Benefit the Whole Family. Ash joined us last year to talk about how our attitudes towards screen time can be…diet-adjacent. I asked them to come back on the podcast this week because a lot of us are heading into back-to-school mode, which in my experience can mean feelingsss about screen routines. There are A LOT of really powerful reframings in this episode that might blow your mind—and make your parenting just a little bit easier. So give this one a listen and share it with anyone in your life who's also struggling with kids and screen time.Today's episode is free but if you value this conversation, please consider supporting our work with a paid subscription. Burnt Toast is 100% reader- and listener-supported. We literally can't do this without you! PS. You can take 10 percent off Power On, or any book we talk about on the podcast, if you order it from the Burnt Toast Bookshop, along with a copy of Fat Talk! (This also applies if you've previously bought Fat Talk from them. Just use the code FATTALK at checkout.)Episode 208 TranscriptVirginiaFor anyone who missed your last episode, can you just quickly tell us who you are and what you do?AshI'm Ash Brandin. I use they/them pronouns.I am a middle school teacher by day, and then with my online presence, I help families and caregivers better understand and manage all things technology—screen time, screens. My goal is to reframe the way that we look at them as caregivers, to find a balance between freaking out about them and allowing total access. To find a way that works for us. VirginiaWe are here today to talk about your brilliant new book, which is called Power On: Managing Screen Time to Benefit the Whole Family. I can't underscore enough how much everybody needs a copy of this book. I have already turned back to it multiple times since reading it a few months ago. It just really helps ground us in so many aspects of this conversation that we don't usually have.AshI'm so glad to hear that it's helpful! If people are new to who I am, I have sort of three central tenets of the work that I do: * Screen time is a social inequity issue. * Screens can be part of our lives without being the center of our lives. * Screens and screen time should benefit whole families.Especially in the last few years, we have seen a trend toward panic around technology and screens and smartphones and social media. I think that there are many reasons to be concerned around technology and its influence, especially with kids. But what's missing in a lot of those conversations is a sense of empowerment about what families can reasonably do. When we focus solely on the fear, it ends up just putting caregivers in a place of feeling bad.VirginiaYou feel like you're getting it wrong all the time.AshShame isn't empowering. No one is like, “Well, I feel terrible about myself, so now I feel equipped to go make a change,” right?Empowerment is what's missing in so many of those conversations and other books and things that have come out, because it's way harder. It's so much harder to talk about what you can really do and reasonably control in a sustainable way. But I'm an educator, and I really firmly believe that if anyone's in this sort of advice type space, be it online or elsewhere, that they need to be trying to empower and help families instead of just capitalizing on fear.VirginiaWhat I found most powerful is that you really give us permission to say: What need is screen time meeting right now? And this includes caregivers' needs. So not just “what need is this meeting for my child,” but what need is this meeting for me? I am here recording with you right now because iPads are meeting the need of children have a day off school on a day when I need to work. We won't be interrupted unless I have to approve a screen time request, which I might in 20 minutes.I got divorced a couple years ago, and my kids get a lot more screen time now. Because they move back and forth between two homes, and each only has one adult in it. Giving myself permission to recognize that I have needs really got me through a lot of adjusting to this new rhythm of our family.AshAbsolutely. And when we're thinking about what the need is, we also need to know that it's going to change. So often in parenting, it feels like we have to come up with one set of rules and they have to work for everything in perpetuity without adjustment. That just sets us up for a sense of failure if we're like, well, I had this magical plan that someone told me was going to work, and it didn't. So I must be the problem, right? It all comes back to that “well, it's my fault” place.VirginiaWhich is screens as diet culture.AshAll over again. We're back at it. It's just not helpful. If instead, we're thinking about what is my need right now? Sometimes it's “I have to work.” And sometimes it's “my kid is sick and they just need to relax.” Sometimes it's, as you were alluding to earlier, it's we've all just had a day, right? We've been run ragged, and we just need a break, and that need is going to dictate very different things. If my kid is laid up on the couch and throwing up, then what screen time is going to be doing for them is very different than If I'm trying to work and I want them to be reasonably engaged in content and trying to maybe learn something. And that's fine. Being able to center “this is what I need right now,” or “this is what we need right now,” puts us in a place of feeling like we're making it work for us. Instead of feeling like we're always coming up against some rule that we're not going to quite live up to.VirginiaI'd love to talk about the inequity piece a little more too. As I said, going from a two parent household to a one parent household, which is still a highly privileged environment—but even just that small shift made me realize, wait a second. I think all the screen time guidance is just for typical American nuclear families. Ideally, with a stay at home parent.So can you talk about why so much of the standard guidance doesn't apply to most of our families?AshIt's not even just a stay at home parent. It's assuming that there is always at least one caregiver who is fully able to be present. Mom, default parent, is making dinner, and Dad is relaxing after work and is monitoring what the kids are doing, right? And it's one of those times where I'm like, have you met a family?VirginiaPeople are seven different places at once. It's just not that simple.AshIt's not that simple, right? It's like, have you spent five minutes in a typical household in the last 10 years? This is not how it's going, right?So the beginning of the book helps people unlearn and relearn what we may have heard around screens, including what research really does or doesn't say around screens, and this social inequity piece. Because especially since the onset of COVID, screens are filling in systemic gaps for the vast majority of families.I'm a family with two caregivers in the home. We both work, but we're both very present caregivers. So we're definitely kind of a rarity, that we're very privileged. We're both around a lot of the time. And we are still using screens to fill some of those gaps.So whether it's we don't really have a backyard, or people are in a neighborhood where they can't send their kids outside, or they don't have a park or a playground. They don't have other kids in the neighborhood, or it's not a safe climate. Or you live in an apartment and you can't have your neighbors complain for the fifth time that your kids are stomping around and being loud. Whatever it is—a lack of daycare, affordable after school care —those are all gaps. They all have to be filled. And we used to have different ways of filling those gaps, and they've slowly become less accessible or less available. So something has to fill them. What ends up often filling them is screens. And I'm not saying that that's necessarily a good thing. I'd rather live in a world in which everyone is having their needs met accessibly and equitably. But that's a much harder conversation, and is one that we don't have very much say in. We participate in that, and we might vote for certain people, but that's about all we can really do reasonably. So, in the meantime, we have to fill that in with something and so screens are often going to fill that in.Especially if you look at caregivers who have less privilege, who are maybe single caregivers, caregivers of color, people living in poverty—all of those aspects of scarcity impacts their bandwidth. Their capacity as a caregiver is less and spread thinner, and all of that takes away from a caregiver's ability to be present. And there were some really interesting studies that were done around just the way that having less capacity affects you as a caregiver.And when I saw that data, I thought, well, of course. Of course people are turning to screens because they have nothing else to give from. And when we think of it that way, it's hard to see that as some sort of personal failure, right? When we see it instead as, oh, this is out of necessity. It reframes the question as “How do I make screens work for me,” as opposed to, “I'm bad for using screens.”VirginiaRight. How do I use screen time to meet these needs and to hopefully build up my capacity so that I can be more present with my kids? I think people think if you're using a lot of screens, you're really never present. It's that stereotype of the parent on the playground staring at their phone, instead of watching the kid play. When maybe the reason we're at the playground is so my kid can play and I can answer some work emails. That doesn't mean I'm not present at other points of the day.AshOf course. You're seeing one moment. I always find that so frustrating. It just really feels like you you cannot win. If I were sitting there staring at my child's every move in the park, someone would be like, “you're being a helicopter,” right? And if I look at my phone because I'm trying to make the grocery pickup order—because I would rather my child have time at the playground than we spend our only free hour in the grocery store and having to manage a kid in the grocery store and not having fun together, right? Instead I'm placing a pickup order and they're getting to run around on the playground. Now also somehow I'm failing because I'm looking at my phone instead of my kid. But also, we want kids to have independent time, and not need constant input. It really feels like you just can't win sometimes. And being able to take a step back and really focus on what need is this meeting? And if it's ours, and if it is helping me be more present and connected, that's a win. When I make dinner in the evening, my kid is often having screen time, and I will put in an AirPod and listen to a podcast, often Burnt Toast, and that's my decompression. Because I come home straight from work and other things. I'm not getting much time to really decompress.VirginiaYou need that airlock time, where you can decompress and then be ready to be present at dinner.I'm sure I've told you this before, but I reported a piece on screen time for Parents Magazine, probably almost 10 years ago at this point, because I think my older child was three or four. And I interviewed this Harvard researcher, this older white man, and I gave him this the dinner time example. I said, I'm cooking dinner. My kid is watching Peppa Pig so that I can cook dinner, and take a breath. And then we eat dinner together. And he said, “Why don't you involve her in cooking dinner? Why don't you give her a bag of flour to play with while you cook dinner?”AshOf all the things!VirginiaAnd I said to him: Because it's 5pm on a Wednesday and who's coming to clean the flour off the ceiling?AshA bag of flour. Of all the things to go to! VirginiaHe was like, “kids love to make a happy mess in the kitchen!” I was like, well I don't love that. And it was just exactly that. My need didn't matter to him at all. He was like, “h, well, if you just want to pacify your children…” I was like, I do, yes, in that moment.AshWell, and I think that's another part of it is that someone says it to us like that, and we're like, “well, I can't say yes,” right? But in the moment, yeah, there are times where it's like, I need you to be quiet. And as hard as this can be to think, sometimes it's like right now, I need you to be quiet and convenient because of the situation we're in. And that doesn't mean we're constantly expecting that of them, and hopefully that's not something we're doing all the time. But if the need is, oh my God, we're all melting down, and if we don't eat in the next 15 minutes, we're going to have a two hour DEFCON1 emergency on our hands, then, yeah, I'm gonna throw Peppa Pig on so that we can all become better regulated humans in the next 15 minutes and not have a hungry meltdown. And that sounds like a much better alternative to me!VirginiaThan flour all over my kitchen on a Wednesday, right? I mean, I'll never not be mad about it. It's truly the worst parenting advice I've ever received. So thank you for giving us all more space as caregivers to be able to articulate our own needs and articulate what we need to be present. It's what we can do in the face of gaps in the care system that leave us holding so much.That said: I think there are some nitty gritty aspects of this that we all struggle wit, so I want to talk about some of the nuts and bolts pieces. One of my biggest struggles is still the question of how much time is too much time? But you argue that time really isn't the measure we should be using. As you're saying, that need is going to vary day to day, and all the guidance that's been telling us, like, 30 minutes at this age, an hour at this age, all of that is not particularly germane to our lives. So can you explain both why time is less what we should fixate on? And then how do I release myself? How do I divest from the screen time diet culture?AshOh man, I wish I had a magic bullet for that one. We'll see what I can do.When I was writing this and thinking about it and making content about it, I kept thinking about you. Because the original time guidelines that everyone speaks back to—they're from the AAP. And they have not actually been used in about 10 years, but people still bring them up all the time. The “no time under two” and “up to an hour up to age five” and “one to two hours, five to 12.” And if you really dig in, I was following footnote after footnote for a while, trying to really find where did this actually come from? It's not based on some study that found that that's the ideal amount of time. It really came from a desire to find this middle ground of time spent being physically idle. These guidelines are about wanting to avoid childhood obesity.VirginiaOf course.AshIt all comes back, right?VirginiaI should have guessed it.AshAnd so in their original recommendations, the AAP note that partially this is to encourage a balance with physical movement. Which, of course, assumes that if you are not sitting watching TV or using an iPad, that you will be playing volleyball or something.VirginiaYou'll automatically be outside running around.AshExactly, of course, those are the only options.VirginiaIt also assumes that screen time is never physical. But a lot of kids are very physical when they're watching screens.AshExactly. And it, of course, immediately also imposes a morality of one of these things is better—moving your body is always better than a screen, which is not always going to be true, right? All these things have nuance in them. But I thought that was so interesting, and it shouldn't have surprised me, and yet somehow it still did. And of course it is good to find movement that is helpful for you and to give your kids an enjoyment of being outside or moving their bodies, or playing a sport. And putting all of that in opposition to something else they may enjoy, like a screen, really quickly goes to that diet culture piece of “well, how many minutes have you been doing that?” Because now we have to offset it with however many minutes you should be running laps or whatever.So those original recommendations are coming from a place of already trying to mitigate the negatives of sitting and doing something sort of passively leisurely. And in the last 10 years, they've moved away from that, and they now recommend what's called making a family media plan. Which actually I think is way better, because it is much more prioritizing what are you using this for? Can you be doing it together? What can you do? It's much more reasonable, I think. But many people still go back to those original recommendations, because like you said, it's a number. It's simple. Just tell me.VirginiaWe love to grab onto a number and grade ourselves.AshJust tell me how much time so that I can tell myself I'm I'm doing a good job, right? But you know, time is just one piece of information. It can be so specific with what am I using that time to do? If I'm sitting on my computer and doing work for an hour and a half, technically, that is screen time, but it is going to affect me a lot differently than if I'm watching Netflix or scrolling my phone for an hour and a half. I will feel very different after those things. And I think it's really important to be aware of that, and to make our kids aware of that from an early age, so that they are thinking about more than just, oh, it's been X amount of minutes. And therefore this is okay or not okay.Because all brains and all screens are different. And so one kid can watch 20 minutes of Paw Patrol, and they're going to be bouncing off the walls, because, for whatever reason, that's just a show that's really stimulating for them. And somebody else can sit and watch an hour and a half of something, and they'll be completely fine. So if you have a kid that is the first kid, and after 20 minutes, you're like, oh my god, it's not even half an hour. This is supposed to be an okay amount. This is how they're acting. We're right back to that “something's wrong. I'm wrong. They're bad,” as opposed to, “What is this telling me? What's something we could do differently? Could we try a different show? Could we try maybe having some physical movement before or after, see if that makes a difference?” It just puts us more in a place of being curious to figure out again, how do I make this work for me? What is my need? How do I make it work for us?And not to rattle on too long, but there was a big study done in the UK, involving over 120,000 kids. And they were trying to find what they called “the Goldilocks amount of time.”VirginiaYes. This is fascinating.AshSo it's the amount of time where benefit starts to wane. Where we are in that “just right”amount. Before that, might still be okay, but after that we're going to start seeing some negative impacts, particularly when it comes to behavior, for example.What they found in general was that the Goldilocks number tended to be around, I think, an hour and 40 minutes a day. Something around an hour and a half a day. But if you looked at certain types of screens, for computers or TV, it was much higher than that. It was closer to three hours a day before you started seeing some negative impacts. And even for things like smartphones, it was over an hour a day. But what I found so so interesting, is that they looked at both statistical significance, but also what they called “minimally important difference,” which was when you would actually notice these negative changes, subjectively, as a caregiver.So this meant how much would a kid have to be on a screen for their adult at home to actually notice “this is having an impact on you,” regularly. And that amount was over four and a half hours a day on screens.VirginiaBefore caregivers were like, “Okay, this is too much!” And the fact that the statistically significant findings for the minutia of what the researchers looking at is so different from what you as a caregiver are going to actually be thrown by. That was really mind blowing to me.AshRight, And that doesn't mean that statistical significance isn't important, necessarily. But we're talking about real minutiae. And that doesn't always mean that you will notice any difference in your actual life.Of course, some people are going to hear this and go, “But I don't want my kid on a screen for four and a half hours.” Sure. That's completely reasonable. And if your kid is having a hard time after an hour, still reasonable, still important. That's why we can think less about how many minutes has it been exactly, and more, what am I noticing? Because if I'm coming back to the need and you're like, okay, I have a meeting and I need an hour, right? If you know, “I cannot have them use their iPad for an hour, because they tend to become a dysregulated mess in 25 minutes,” that's much more useful information than “Well, it says they're allowed to have an hour of screen time per day so this should be fine because it's an hour.”VirginiaRight.AshIt sets you up for more success.VirginiaAnd if you know your kid can handle that hour fine and can, in fact, handle more fine, it doesn't mean, “well you had an hour of screen time while I was in a meeting so now we can't watch a show together later to relax together.” You don't have to take away and be that granular with the math of the screens. You can be like, yeah, we needed an extra hour for this meeting, and we'll still be able to watch our show later. Because that's what I notice with my kids. If I start to try to take away from some other screen time, then it's like, “Oh, god, wait, but that's the routine I'm used to!” You can't change it, and that's fair.AshYes, absolutely. And I would feel that way too, right? If someone were giving me something extra because it was a convenience to them, but then later was like, “oh, well, I have to take that from somewhere.” But they didn't tell me that. I would be like, Excuse me, that's weird. That's not how that works, right? This was a favor to you, right?VirginiaYeah, exactly. I didn't interrupt your meeting. You're welcome, Mom.Where the time anxiety does tend to kick in, though, is that so often it's hard for kids to transition off screens. So then parents think, “Well, it was too much time,” or, “The screen is bad.” This is another very powerful reframing in your work. So walk us through why just because a kid is having a hard time getting off screens doesn't mean it was too much and it doesn't mean that screens are evil? AshSo an example I use many times that you can tweak to be whatever thing would come up for your kid is bath time. I think especially when kids are in that sort of toddler, three, four age. When my kid was that age, we had a phase where transitioning to and from the bathtub was very hard. Getting into it was hard. But then getting out of it was hard.VirginiaThey don't ever want to get in. And then they never want to leave.AshThey never want to get out, right? And in those moments when my kid was really struggling to get out of the bathtub, imagine how it would sound if I was like, “Well, it it's the bathtub's fault.” Like it's the bath's fault that they are having such a hard time, it's because of the bubbles, and it smells too good, and I've made it too appealing and the water's too warm. Like, I mean, I sound unhinged, right?Virginia“We're going to stop bathing you.”AshExactly. We would not say, “Well, we can't have baths anymore.” Or when we go to the fun playground, and it's really hard to leave the fun playground, we don't blame the playground. When we're in the grocery store and they don't want to leave whichever aisle, we don't blame the grocery store. And we also don't stop taking them to the grocery store. We don't stop going to playgrounds. We don't stop having baths. Instead, we make different decisions, right? We try different things. We start a timer. We have a different transition. We talk about it beforehand. We strategize, we try things.VirginiaGive a “Hey, we're leaving in a few minutes!” so they're not caught off guard.AshExactly. We talk about it. Hey, last time it was really hard to leave here, we kind of let them know ahead of time, or we race them to the car. We find some way to make it more fun, to make the transition easier, right? We get creative, because we know that, hey, they're going to have to leave the grocery store. They're going to have to take baths in a reasonable amount of time as they grow up into their lives. We recognize the skill that's happening underneath it.And I think with screens, we don't always see those underlying skills, because we see it as this sort of superfluous thing, right? It's not needed. It's not necessary. Well, neither is going to a playground, technically.A lot of what we do is not technically required, but the skill underneath is still there. So when they are struggling with ending screen time, is it really the screen, or is it that it's hard to stop doing something fun. It's hard to stop in the middle of something. It's hard to stop if you have been playing for 20 minutes and you've lost every single race and you don't want to stop when you've just felt like you've lost over and over again, right? You want one more shot to one more shot, right?People are going to think, “Well, but screens are so much different than those other things.” Yes, a screen is designed differently than a playground or a bath. But we are going to have kids who are navigating a technological and digital world that we are struggle to even imagine, right? We're seeing glimpses of it, but it's going to be different than what we're experiencing now, and we want our kids to be able to navigate that with success. And that comes back to seeing the skills underneath. So when they're struggling with something like that, taking the screen out of it, and asking yourself, how would I handle this if it were anything else. How would I handle this if it were they're struggling to leave a friend's house? I probably wouldn't blame the friend, and I wouldn't blame their house, and I wouldn't blame their boys.VirginiaWe're never seeing that child again! Ash I would validate and I would tell them, it's hard. And I would still tell them “we're ending,” and we would talk about strategies to make it easier next time. And we would get curious and try something, and we would be showing our kids that, “hey, it's it's okay to have a hard time doing that thing. It's okay to have feelings about it. And we're still gonna do it. We're still going to end that thing.”Most of the time, the things that we are struggling with when it comes to screens actually boil down to one of three things, I call them the ABCs. It's either Access, which could be time, or when they're having it, or how much. Behavior, which you're kind of bringing up here. And Content, what's on the screen, what they're playing, what they what they have access to.And so sometimes we might think that the problem we're seeing in front of us is a behavior problem, right? I told them to put the screen away. They're not putting the screen away. That's a behavior problem. But sometimes it actually could be because it's an access issue, right? It's more time than they can really handle at that given moment. Or it could be content, because it's content that makes it harder to start and stop. So a big part of the book is really figuring out, how do I know what problem I'm even really dealing with here? And then what are some potential things that I can do about it? To try to problem solve, try to make changes and see if this helps, and if it helps, great, keep it. And if not, I can get curious and try something else. And so a lot of it is strategies to try and ways to kind of, you know, backwards engineer what might be going on, to figure out how to make it work for you, how to make it better.VirginiaIt's so helpful to feel like, okay, there's always one more thing I can tweak and adjust. Versus “it's all a failure. We have to throw it out.” That kind of all or nothing thinking that really is never productive. The reason I think it's so helpful that you draw that parallel with the bath or the play date is it reminds us that there are some kids for whom transitions are just always very difficult—like across the board. So you're not just seeing a screen time problem. You're being reminded “My kid is really building skills around transitions. We don't have them yet.” We hope we will have them at some point. But this is actually an opportunity to work on that, as opposed to a problem. We can actually practice some of these transition skills.AshAnd I really like coming back to the skill, because if we're thinking of it as a skill, then we're probably more likely to tell our kids that it's a skill, too. Because if we're just thinking of it as like, well, it's a screen. It's the screen's fault, it's the screen's fault. Then we might not say those literal words to our kids, but we might say, like, it's always so hard to turn off the TV. Why is that, right? We're talking about it as if it's this sort of amorphous, like it's only about the television, or it's only about the iPad, and we're missing the part of making it clear to our kids that, hey, this is a skill that you're working on, and we work on this skill in different ways.VirginiaI did some good repair with my kids after reading your book. Because I was definitely falling into the trap of talking about screen addiction. I thought I was saying to them, “It's not your fault. The screens are programmed to be bad for us in this way” So I thought, I was like at least not blaming them, but being like, we need less screens because they're so dangerous.But then I read your book, and I was like, oh, that's not helpful either. And I did have one of my kids saying, “Am I bad because I want to watch screens all the time?” And I was like, oh, that's too concrete and scary.And again, to draw the parallel with diet culture: It's just like telling kids sugar is bad, and then they think they're bad because they like sugar. So I did do some repair. I was like, “I read this book and now I've learned that that was not right.” They were like, oh, okay. We're healing in my house from that, so thank you.AshOh, you're very welcome, and I'm glad to hear that!I think about those parallels with food all the time, because sometimes it just helps me think, like, wait, would I be wanting to send this message about food or exercise or whatever? And if the answer is no, then how can I tweak it so that I'm sending a message I'd be okay with applying to other things. And I like being able to make those parallels with my kid. In my household right now, we're practicing flexibility. Flexibility is a skill that we're working on in so many parts of our lives. And when I say we, I do mean we. Me, everybody is working on this.VirginiaParents can use more flexibility, for sure.AshAbsolutely. And so like, when those moments are coming up, you know, I'm trying to say, like, hey, like, what skill is this right now? Who's having to be flexible right now? Flexible can be a good thing, right? We might be flexible by saying yes to eating dinner on the couch and watching a TV show. That's flexibility. Flexibility isn't just adjust your plans to be more convenient to me, child, so that I can go do something as an adult. And coming back to those skills so they can see, oh, okay, this isn't actually just about screens. This applies to every part of these of my life, or these different parts of my life, and if I'm working on it here, oh, wow, it feels easier over there. And so they can see that this applies throughout their life, and kind of feel more of that buy in of like, oh, I'm getting better at that. Or that was easier. That was harder. We want them to see that across the board.VirginiaOh, my God, absolutely.Let's talk about screens and neurodivergence a little bit. So one of my kiddos is neurodivergent, and I can both see how screens are wonderful for them at the end of a school day, when they come home and they're really depleted. Screen time is the thing they need to rest and regulate. And they love the world building games, which gives them this whole world to control and explore. And there's so much there that's wonderful.And, they definitely struggle more than their sibling with this transition piece, with getting off it. One kid will naturally put down the iPad at some point and go outside for a bit, and this kid will not. And it creates more anxiety for parents. Because neurodivergent kids may both need screens—in ways that maybe we're not totally comfortable with, but need to get comfortable with—and then struggle with the transition piece. So how do you think about this question differently with neurodivergence? Or or is it really the same thing you're just having to drill in differently?AshI think it is ultimately the same thing, but it certainly is going to feel quite more heightened. And I think especially for certain aspects of neurodivergence, especially, I think it feels really heightened because of some of the ways that they might be discussed, particularly online, when it comes to how they relate to technology. I think about ADHD, we'll see that a lot. Where I'll see many things online about, like, “kids with ADHD should never be on a screen. They should never be on a device, because they are so dopamine-seeking.” And I have to just say that I find that to be such an ableist framing. Because with ADHD, we're talking about a dopamine deficient brain. And I don't think that we would be having that same conversation about someone needing insulin, right? Like, we wouldn't be saying, like, oh yeah, nope, they can't take that insulin. VirginiaThey're just craving that insulin they need to stay alive.AshA kid seeking a thing that they're that they are somehow deficient in—that's not some sort of defiant behavior. VirginiaNo, it's a pretty adaptive strategy.AshAbsolutely, it is. And we want kids to know that nobody's brain is good or bad, right? There's not a good brain or a bad brain. There are all brains are going to have things that are easier or harder. And it's about learning the brain that you're in, and what works or doesn't work for the brain that you're in.And all brains are different, right? Neurotypical brains and neurodivergent brains within those categories are obviously going to be vastly different. What works for one won't work for another, and being able to figure out what works for them, instead of just, “because you have this kind of brain, you shouldn't ever do this thing,” that's going to set them up for more success. And I think it's great that you mentioned both how a screen can be so regulating, particularly for neurodivergent brains, and then the double-edged sword of that is that then you have to stop. VirginiaTransition off back into the world.AshSo if the pain point is a transition, what is it really coming from? Is it coming from the executive function piece of “I don't know how to find a place to stop?” A lot of people, particularly kids ADHD, they often like games that are more open-ended. So they might like something like a Minecraft or an Animal Crossing or the Sims where you can hyperfocus and deep dive into something. But what's difficult about that is that, you know, if I play Mario Kart, the level ends, it's a very obvious ending.VirginiaRight? And you can say, “One more level, and we're done.”AshExactly. We've reached the end of the championship. I'm on the podium. I quit now, right?But there's a never ending series of of tasks with a more open-ended game. And especially if I'm in my hyper focus zone, right? I can just be thinking, like, well, then I can do this and this and this and this and this, right?And I'm adding on to my list, and the last thing I want to do in that moment is get pulled out of it when I'm really feeling like I'm in the zone. So if that's the kind of transition that's difficult. And it's much less about games and more about “how do I stop in the middle of a project?” Because that's essentially what that is.And that would apply if I'm at school and I'm in the middle of an essay and we're finishing it up tomorrow. Or I'm trying to decorate a cake, and we're trying to walk out the door and I have to stop what I'm doing and come back later. So one of the tricks that I have found really helpful is to ask the question of, “How will you know when you're done?” Or how will you know you're at a stopping point? What would a stopping point be today? And getting them to sort of even visualize it, or say it out loud, so that they can think about, “Oh, here's how I basically break down a giant task into smaller pieces,” because that's essentially what that is.VirginiaThat's a great tip. Ash“Okay, you have five minutes. What is the last thing you're going to do today?” Because then it's concrete in terms of, like, I'm not asking the last thing, and it will take you half an hour, right? I'm at, we have five minutes. What's the last thing you're wrapping up? What are you going to do?Then, if it's someone who's very focused in this world, and they're very into that world, then that last thing can also be our transition out of it. As they're turning it off, the very first thing we're saying to them is, “So what was that last thing you were doing?”VirginiaOh, that's nice.AshThen they're telling it to us, and then we can get curious. We can ask questions. We can get a little into their world to help them transition out of that world. That doesn't mean that we have to understand what they're telling us, frankly. It doesn't mean we have to know all the nuance. But we can show that interest. I think this is also really, really important, because then we are showing them it's not us versus the screen. We're not opposing the screen, like it's the enemy or something. And we're showing them, “Hey, I can tell you're interested in this, so I'm interested in it because you are.” Like, I care about you, so I want to know more.VirginiaAnd then they can invite you into their world, which what a lot of neurodivergent kids need. We're asking them to be part of the larger world all the time. And how nice we can meet them where they are a little more.AshAbsolutely. The other thing I would say is that something I think people don't always realize, especially if they don't play games as much, or if they are not neurodivergent and playing games, is they might miss that video games actually are extremely well-accommodated worlds, in terms of accommodating neurodivergence.So thinking about something like ADHD, to go back to that example, it's like, okay, some really common classroom accommodations for ADHD, from the educator perspective, the accommodations I see a lot are frequent check ins, having a checklist, breaking down a large task into smaller chunks, objectives, having a visual organizer.Well, I think about a video game, and it's like, okay, if I want to know what I have available to me, I can press the pause menu and see my inventory at any time. If I want to know what I should be doing, because I have forgotten, I can look at a menu and see, like, what's my objective right now? Or I can bring up the map and it will show me where I supposed to be going. If I start to deviate from what I'm supposed to be doing, the game will often be like, “Hey, don't forget, you're supposed to be going over there!” It'll get me back on task. If I'm trying to make a potion that has eight ingredients, the game will list them all out for me, and it will check them off as I go, so I can visually see how I'm how I'm achieving this task. It does a lot of that accommodation for me. And those accommodations are not as common in the real world, or at least not as easily achieved.And so a lot of neurodivergent kids will succeed easily in these game worlds. And we might think “oh because it's addicting, or the algorithm, or it's just because they love it” But there are often these structural design differences that actually make it more accessible to them.And if we notice, oh, wow, they have no problem knowing what to do when they're playing Zelda, because they just keep checking their objective list all the time or whatever—that's great information.VirginiaAnd helps us think, how can we do that in real life? AshExactly. We can go to them and say, hey, I noticed you, you seem to check your inventory a lot when you're playing that game. How do we make it so that when you look in your closet, you can just as easily see what shirts you own. Whatever the thing may be, so that we're showing them, “hey, bring that into the rest of your world that works for you here.” Let's make it work for you elsewhere, instead of thinking of it as a reason they're obsessed with screens, and now we resent the screens for that. Bring that in so that it can benefit the rest of their lives.VirginiaI'm now like, okay, that just reframes something else very important for me. You have such a helpful way of helping us divest from the guilt and the shame and actually look at this in a positive and empowering way for us and our kids. And I'm just so grateful for it. It really is a game changer for me.AshOh, thank you so much. I'm so glad to hear that it was helpful and empowering for you, and I just hope that it can be that for others as well.ButterAshSo my family and I have been lucky enough to spend quite a lot of time in Japan. And one of the wonderful things about Japan is they have a very huge bike culture. I think people think of the Netherlands as Bike cCentral, but Japan kind of rivals them.And they have a particular kind of bike that you cannot get in the United States. It's called a Mamachari, which is like a portmanteau of mom and chariot. And it's sort of like a cargo bike, but they are constructed a little differently and have some features that I love. And so when I've been in Japan, we are on those bikes. I'm always like, I love this kind of bike. I want this kind of bike for me forever. And my recent Butter has been trying to find something like that that I can have in my day to day life. And I found something recently, and got a lovely step through bike on Facebook Marketplace. VirginiaSo cool! That's exciting to find on marketplace, too.AshOh yes, having a bike that like I actually enjoy riding, I had my old bike from being a teenager, and it just was not functional. I was like, “This is not fun.” And now having one that I enjoy, I'm like, oh yes. I feel like a kid again. It's lovely.VirginiaThat's a great Butter. My Butter is something both my kids and my pets and I are all really enjoying. I'm gonna drop a link in the chat for you. It is called a floof, and it is basically a human-sized dog bed that I found on Etsy. It's like, lined with fake fur.AshMy God. I'm looking at it right now.VirginiaIsn't it hilarious?AshWow. I'm so glad you sent a picture, because that is not what I was picturing?Virginia I can't describe it accurately. It's like a cross between a human-sized dog bed and a shopping bag? Sort of? AshYes, yes, wow. It's like a hot tub.VirginiaIt's like a hot tub, but no water. You just sit in it. I think they call it a cuddle cave. I don't understand how to explain it, but it's the floof. And it's in our family room. And it's not inexpensive, but it does basically replace a chair. So if you think of it as a furniture purchase, it's not so bad. There's always at least a cat or a dog sleeping in it. Frequently a child is in it. My boyfriend likes to be in it. Everyone gravitates towards it. And you can put pillows in it or a blanket.Neurodivergent people, in particular, really love it, because I think it provides a lot of sensory feedback? And it's very enclosed and cozy. It's great for the day we're having today, which is a very laid back, low demand, watch as much screen as you want, kind of day. So I've got one kid bundled into the floof right now with a bunch of blankets in her iPad, and she's so happy. AshOh my gosh. Also, it kind of looks like the person is sitting in a giant pita, which I also love.VirginiaThat's what it is! It's like a giant pita, but soft and cozy. It's like being in a pita pocket. And I'm sure there are less expensive versions, this was like, 300 something dollars, so it is an investment. But they're handmade by some delightful person in the Netherlands.Whenever we have play dates, there are always two or three kids, snuggled up in it together. There's something extremely addictive about it. I don't know. I don't really know how to explain why it's great, but it's great.AshOh, that is lovely.VirginiaAll right, well tell obviously, everyone needs to go to their bookstore and get Power On: Managing Screen Time to Benefit the Whole Family. Where else can we find you, Ash? How can we support your work?AshYou can find me on Instagram at the gamer educator, and I also cross post my Instagram posts to Substack, and I'm on Substack as Screen Time Strategies. It's all the same content, just that way you're getting it in your inbox without, without having to go to Instagram. So if that's something that you are trying to maybe move away from, get it via Substack. And my book Power On: Managing Screen Time to Benefit the Whole Family is available starting August 26 is when it fully releases.VirginiaAmazing. Thank you so much. This was really great.AshThank you so much for having me back.The Burnt Toast Podcast is produced and hosted by Virginia Sole-Smith (follow me on Instagram) and Corinne Fay, who runs @SellTradePlus, and Big Undies.The Burnt Toast logo is by Deanna Lowe.Our theme music is by Farideh.Tommy Harron is our audio engineer.Thanks for listening and for supporting anti-diet, body liberation journalism! This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit virginiasolesmith.substack.com/subscribe

Dysregulation during sex made early intimacy challenging for Emily Zawadzki and her now wife – until a diagnosis changed everything. Kat's Asperger's made romantic relationships tricky, until she met her wife. Rachael Rose navigates polyamory as an ADHD person, and sees how her drive for dopamine and lack of a sense of time (“time blindness”) affects sex and dating.   Download Emily's free workbook, Redefining Sex and Communication as a Neuro-Queer: emilyzedsexed.com/newsletter   Learn more from Rachael Rose: https://hedonish.com/   IG: @GirlBonerMedia   FB: @MyGirlBoner  TT:: @augustmclaughlin.gb  augustmclaughlin.com/girlboner    patreon.com/girlboner   Get free shipping at Crave! Elegant, woman-designed jewelry and toys: https://lovecrave.com/products/vesper2?bg_ref=UAgjcRRV14   Girl Boner Radio is hosted and produced by August McLaughlin.

“People with ADHD aren't asking for sympathy. They're saying: here are my pain points and here's what I need in order to be successful.” - Amy ShillidayWhat if the very traits we often label as “challenges” are actually hidden superpowers? And what would it look like if leaders truly understood how to support neurodivergent employees - not just to cope, but to thrive?In this episode of Transformative Leadership Conversations, I sit down with Amy Shilliday, a learning experience designer, neurodiversity advocate, and founder of Shilliday Vaughan Consulting. With over 25 years in corporate learning and development, Amy has seen firsthand how small shifts in the way we design learning and lead teams can completely change the game - not just for those with ADHD or other neurodivergent profiles, but for everyone.You'll hear us discuss:Why ADHD and other neurodivergent traits are less about deficits and more about different operating systemsHow “universal design for learning” can transform training and onboarding for every employee, not just somePractical ways leaders can coach team members with ADHD without micromanaging or labelingThe power of disclosure - when, how, and why someone might choose to share their diagnosis at work or in an interviewWhat leaders with ADHD themselves can do to embrace their strengths, manage their energy, and lead authenticallyWhy self-care isn't optional and how burnout shows up differently for neurodivergent professionalsResourcesAmy Shilliday on the Web | LinkedInThe UDL GuidelinesEdge Foundation (Sir Richard Branson)Feel Good Productivity (Ali Abdaal) - An excellent way for anyone, especially ND folks, to set realistic goalsWhen All Minds Thrive (Saskia Schepers) - Helps leaders realize the benefits of and support methods for ND employeesWinnie da Silva on LinkedIn | On the Web | Substack | YouTube | Email - winnie@winnifred.org

In this first part of a powerful two-part conversation, Stacie sits down with the creative and deeply introspective Andy J. Pizza, illustrator, speaker, and host of the beloved Creative Pep Talk podcast. They dive headfirst into the personal side of creativity, exploring how neurodivergence, mental health, and family background shape the way we show up in our art. Andy and Stacie share candid moments about their diagnoses (ADHD and OCD), how their creative rhythms differ from traditional productivity models, and why embracing your authentic self is the first step to making art that truly matters. From deep dives into therapy and self-compassion to reflections on parenting and redefining success, this episode is a masterclass in building a creative career that honors your whole self. Today on Art + Audience: The origin of “Andy J. Pizza”: Why Andy chose this name and how it became unexpectedly perfect for his work with kids. Navigating neurodivergence: A candid look at how ADHD and OCD influence both Andy's and Stacie's creative lives. Strengths-based psychology: Andy explains how shifting focus to what works (instead of what's broken) changed his outlook. Self-expression and self-love: Why Andy believes you can't make meaningful art if you don't like yourself first. Redefining productivity: Letting go of rigid systems and learning to work with your brain instead of against it. Rethinking success and permission: Is creative freedom something you earn, or something you allow yourself to have? Connect with Andy J. Pizza: Website: andyjpizza.com Instagram: @andyjpizza Podcast: Creative Pep Talk Podcast Connect with Stacie Bloomfield: Subscribe, Rate, and Review: Art + Audience Podcast Website: staciebloomfield.com | leverageyourart.com Instagram: @gingiber | @leverageyourart  Facebook: @ShopGingiber Pinterest: pinterest.com/gingiber Leverage Your Art: Stacie's signature course, opening again this August 2025 Got questions? Call the Art + Audience Podcast hotline: (479) 966-9561  

Shea Belsky shares his top do's and don'ts for managing neurodiversity in the workplace.— YOU'LL LEARN — 1) Why neurodivergency is unavoidable at work2) The unique strengths and struggles of autistic people3) When and how to discuss neurodiversity at workSubscribe or visit AwesomeAtYourJob.com/ep1087 for clickable versions of the links below. — ABOUT SHEA — Shea Belsky is an autistic self-advocate. He is a Tech Lead II at HubSpot, and the former Chief Technology Officer of Mentra. Having been the manager of neurodivergent & neurotypical employees, he brings many unique perspectives on neurodiversity in the workplace. Shea has championed neurodiversity for organizations like Novartis, the Kennedy Krieger Institute, Northeastern University, in addition to being featured in Forbes and the New York Post.• LinkedIn: Shea Belsky• Podcast: Autistic Techie• Website: SheaBelsky.com— RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THE SHOW — • Book: Radical Candor: Be a Kick-Ass Boss Without Losing Your Humanity by Kim Scott• Past episode: 150: Expressing Radical Candor with Kim Scott• Past episode: 860: The Science of Compelling Body Language with Richard Newman• Past episode: 1049: What Dyslexia Can Teach Us About Creativity, Problem Solving, and Critical Thinking with Kate Griggs• Past episode: 1070: An ADHD Strategist's Pro Tips for Staying Motivated and Productive When You Can't Focus with Skye Waterson• Past episode: 1085: How to Find More Fun at Work Every Day with Bree Groff— THANK YOU SPONSORS! — • Strawberry.me. Claim your $50 credit and build momentum in your career with Strawberry.me/Awesome• LinkedIn Jobs. Post your job for free at linkedin.com/beawesome• Quince. Get free shipping and 365-day returns on your order with Quince.com/Awesome• Square. See how Square can transform your business by visiting Square.com/go/awesomeSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Are you chasing “perfect” parenting—only to end every day feeling like you've failed? The truth is, perfection isn't only impossible, it's exhausting… and it can actually make parenting harder. In this episode, Emily unpacks the difference between perfect parenting and empowered parenting—and why the shift can transform your home, your relationship with your kids, and your own emotional well-being.You'll learn:Why aiming for perfection leads to burnout (especially in neurodivergent families)How the 51% Parenting Goal works—and why it's backed by researchThe two essential elements every child needs: connection and boundariesHow to repair and reconnect after you make a mistakeWhy your imperfections can actually help your child become more resilientIf you've been holding yourself to an impossible standard, this conversation will give you permission to let go, tools to parent with confidence, and the freedom to enjoy your family again—without the pressure to be perfect.

Fitness instructor, ADHD counselor, and author Gabriel Villarreal talks about how exercise is "medicine" for kids with ADHD, autism, and more, and how to get kids motivated to exercise. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This week on the podcast we're diving into a topic that's near and dear to so many of us: friendships for neurodivergent kids (and yes, for us as parents too). With a new school year kicking into gear, worries about social connection and "finding your people" can rise to the surface—especially for families navigating neurodiversity. What We're Unpacking This Episode: Why friendships can be challenging for neurodivergent kids (think asynchronous development, sensory sensitivities, social anxiety, or intense interests that aren't always shared by peers). Supporting your child: From validating their feelings and practicing social skills together, to seeking out interest-based clubs and even professional help when needed, we're covering loads of strategies. Managing our own expectations: Sometimes it's our hearts that ache more than our kids'—especially if they're totally content solo-building Lego metropolises while we scroll by endless social media playdate posts. (You're not alone if this sounds all too familiar.) Key Takeaway: There's no single “right” way for kids to socialize—and not all loneliness means your child is suffering. We talk about the difference between the child who longs for connection (and how to support them) and the content solo flyer (who's truly happy alone, even if that's hard for us to accept as parents). Quick Tips From the Episode: Normalize neurodiversity at home. Celebrate differences. Your child isn't broken—they're beautifully wired. Prioritize shared interests over age. Sometimes the best friendships are across generations or centered around passions rather than peer groups. Practice and role-play social skills in low-pressure environments (think: one-on-one meetups, online clubs like our Learner's Lab, or even just chatting with a cool neighbor with a unique hobby). Know that seeking therapy or coaching is a strength, not a weakness—for both kids and parents. A Gentle Reminder: If your child is thriving emotionally, feels seen and supported, and is building their life at their own pace—even if it doesn't look the way you expected—you're doing a great job. Sometimes the most meaningful friendships (and personal growth) take the scenic route.   Links and Resources from Today's Episode Thank you to our sponsors: CTC Math – Flexible, affordable math for the whole family! Night Zookeeper – Fun, comprehensive language arts for ages 6-12 The Homeschool Advantage: A Child-Focused Approach to Raising Lifelong Learners The Homeschool Advantage: A Child-Focused Approach to Raising Lifelong Learners Audiobook Raising Lifelong Learners Membership Community – The Learners Lab Raising Resilient Sons by Colleen Kessler, M.Ed. The Anxiety Toolkit 5 Tips for Helping Gifted Children Make Friends Finding Your People | Why Community Matters for Homeschoolers of Neurodivergent Kids Why LEGO STEM Challenges Belong in Your Homeschool – Especially If You're Raising Neurodivergent Kids Teaching Kids to Befriend Others Teaching Kids About Being a Good Friend with Help From Great Books and Netflix RLL #42: What It's Like to be Homeschooled with Best Friends Molly and Ella