The Neurodivergent Experience

In this episode of Mindful Mondays, Ashley explores the art of release for the neurodivergent mind through the wisdom of nature’s changing seasons. Just as autumn trees shed their leaves, we too are invited to let go of relationships, routines, or identities that no longer serve us — not as a loss, but as a transformation.Through personal reflections, Buddhist teachings on impermanence (anicca), and gentle neuroscience, this episode reminds us that every ending carries the seed of renewal. Ashley also shares how “noticing what you’re noticing” can reveal your mindset and bring you back to presence in even the messiest moments.The practice concludes with a deeply hypnotic guided meditation, The Forest of Release, where listeners are invited to walk through an autumn woodland, surrender old burdens, and reconnect with the grace of change.🎧 Listen now to rediscover the beauty in letting go.❤️ Support the ShowIf this episode resonated with you:✅ Follow or Subscribe to The Neurodivergent Experience⭐ Leave a quick review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify🔔 Turn on notifications for new weekly episodesOur Sponsors:🧠 RTN Diagnostics - Right to Choose – Autism & ADHD Assessments (UK)🧘‍♀️ Ashley Bentley – Integrative Coaching, Breathwork & Hypnotherapy→ https://bit.ly/ashleynde🔗 Stay ConnectedInstagram: @theneurodivergentexperiencepodFacebook: The Neurodivergent Experience & Jordan's Facebook pageYouTube: @TheNeurodivergentExperienceTikTok: @neurodivergentexperience Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this Hot Topic episode of The Neurodivergent Experience, Simon Scott and Jordan James react to the brand-new BBC Panorama documentary Autism, Schools and Families on the Edge, presented by EastEnders actor Kellie Bright.The documentary follows three families fighting for EHCPs (Education, Health and Care Plans) for their autistic children and exposes the devastating impact of a broken SEND system in the UK. Drawing on their own lived experiences and community feedback, Simon and Jordan unpack why the system feels rigged against neurodivergent children and families — and why system reform is urgently needed.Together, they explore:The uphill battle parents face to secure EHCPs for autistic and ADHD childrenHow government underfunding and council gatekeeping harm children’s futuresWhy do so many families feel forced into private assessments or tribunalsThe emotional toll on both neurodivergent children and their parentsThe importance of representation and why documentaries like this matterWhy real change needs more than awareness — it needs action, funding, and empathyWatch the Documentary on BBC iPlayer here 🔗.This is one of the most urgent conversations the show has hosted, highlighting both the failures of the SEND system and the resilience of the families fighting within it.Our Sponsors:🧠 RTN Diagnostics - Right to Choose – Autism & ADHD Assessments (UK)🧘‍♀️ Ashley Bentley – Integrative Coaching, Breathwork & Hypnotherapy→ https://bit.ly/ashleynde🔗 Stay ConnectedInstagram: @theneurodivergentexperiencepodFacebook: The Neurodivergent Experience & Jordan's Facebook pageYouTube: @TheNeurodivergentExperienceTikTok: @neurodivergentexperience❤️ Support the ShowIf this episode resonated with you:✅ Follow or Subscribe to The Neurodivergent Experience⭐ Leave a quick review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify🔔 Turn on notifications for new weekly episodes Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of The Neurodivergent Experience, Jordan James and Simon Scott sit down with filmmaker and educator Bret Malley to discuss his groundbreaking documentary, "The Divergent Gift: Unboxing Autism."This film is particularly powerful because it was created entirely by neurodivergent people! From concept and filming to animation, editing, and storytelling. The project began as Bret’s personal response to his son Kellan’s autism diagnosis and grew into a global documentary that amplifies autistic voices of all ages and backgrounds.Through lived experience and innovative filmmaking, The Divergent Gift: Unboxing Autism reframes autism beyond stereotypes, celebrating its diversity, challenges, and beauty while centring autistic perspectives at every stage of production.Jordan, Simon, and Bret explore:How The Divergent Gift: Unboxing Autism began as a family story and became a powerful advocacy toolWhy authentic representation and autistic voices are essential in storytellingThe role of animation and creative filmmaking in capturing sensory and emotional experiencesHow media can either perpetuate stigma or foster empathy and understandingEarly reactions to screenings and the film’s impact on communities and familiesWhy autistic-led creative projects are so vital for meaningful changeThis episode is a celebration of storytelling, representation, and the power of film to reshape cultural conversations about autism.Our Sponsors:🧠 RTN Diagnostics - Right to Choose – Autism & ADHD Assessments (UK)🧘‍♀️ Ashley Bentley – Integrative Coaching, Breathwork & Hypnotherapy→ https://bit.ly/ashleynde🔗 Stay ConnectedInstagram: @theneurodivergentexperiencepodFacebook: The Neurodivergent Experience & Jordan's Facebook pageYouTube: @TheNeurodivergentExperienceTikTok: @neurodivergentexperience❤️ Support the ShowIf this episode resonated with you:✅ Follow or Subscribe to The Neurodivergent Experience⭐ Leave a quick review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify🔔 Turn on notifications for new weekly episodes Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Mindful Mondays, Ashley explores how nature helps us move through overwhelm and restore balance. From the science of the “happiness chemicals”—dopamine, serotonin, oxytocin, and endorphins—to the practices of grounding and awe, discover how the natural world regulates our nervous system and reconnects us with presence and purpose. This week’s guided meditation, Walking Off the Storm, takes you on a deeply descriptive, awe-filled journey through nature to release stress and return to calm.Ashley Bentley is an integrative coach, breathwork facilitator, and clinical hypnotherapist. She is also the in-house therapist for The Neurodivergent Experience podcast and a teacher on Insight Timer, where she shares meditations, courses, and live events to support presence, resilience, and connection. ✨ Connect with Ashley:🔗 Website: www.integrativeiom.co.uk🔗 Facebook: Integrative IOM🔗 Insight Timer: Ashley Bentley❤️ Support the ShowIf this episode resonated with you:✅ Follow or Subscribe to The Neurodivergent Experience⭐ Leave a quick review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify🔔 Turn on notifications for new weekly episodesOur Sponsors:🧠 RTN Diagnostics - Right to Choose – Autism & ADHD Assessments (UK)🧘‍♀️ Ashley Bentley – Integrative Coaching, Breathwork & Hypnotherapy→ https://bit.ly/ashleynde🔗 Stay ConnectedInstagram: @theneurodivergentexperiencepodFacebook: The Neurodivergent Experience & Jordan's Facebook pageYouTube: @TheNeurodivergentExperienceTikTok: @neurodivergentexperience Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this Hot Topic episode of The Neurodivergent Experience, Jordan James and Simon Scott unpack sensationalist headlines, genetic blame narratives, and the ongoing misinformation war around autism.From genetic blame and parental guilt to Trump’s Tylenol claims and Facebook “science,” they expose how bad headlines spread faster than real research — and why this matters for autistic people and their families.Jordan and Simon also explore:Why autism isn’t a disease with a “cause,” but a form of neurodivergence shaped by synaptic developmentThe harm caused by framing autism through deficit-based narratives and severity labelsHow pseudo-scientific headlines fuel ableism and self-blame in parentsThe difference between genuine research, sensationalist headlines, and clickbait “Facebook science”The need to shift funding from “preventing autism” to supporting autistic people who already existWhy blanket statements about autism erase the vast diversity of lived experiencesThis is a fiery, passionate conversation that blends science, personal experience, and sharp critique of ableist rhetoric.Our Sponsors:🧠 RTN Diagnostics - Right to Choose – Autism & ADHD Assessments (UK)🧘‍♀️ Ashley Bentley – Integrative Coaching, Breathwork & Hypnotherapy→ https://bit.ly/ashleynde🔗 Stay ConnectedInstagram: @theneurodivergentexperiencepodFacebook: The Neurodivergent Experience & Jordan's Facebook pageYouTube: @TheNeurodivergentExperienceTikTok: @neurodivergentexperience❤️ Support the ShowIf this episode resonated with you:✅ Follow or Subscribe to The Neurodivergent Experience⭐ Leave a quick review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify🔔 Turn on notifications for new weekly episodes Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of The Neurodivergent Experience, Jordan, Simon, and Ashley explore the powerful relationship between nature, neurodivergence, chronic pain, and seasonal change. Recorded after a neurodivergent getaway in the Lake District, the trio reflect on the healing power of natural environments, the sensory overwhelm of urban life, and how embracing seasonal rhythms can support mental health and regulation for autistic and ADHD adults.Through candid storytelling and humour, they unpack the challenges of pain management, executive dysfunction, and winter transition, and share personal rituals, mindset shifts, and unexpected joys found in the natural world.Together, they explore:How nature acts as a powerful regulatory tool for neurodivergent brainsWhy modern urban environments can overwhelm autistic and ADHD sensory systemsThe role of barefoot grounding, light exposure, and circadian rhythms in daily wellbeingPractical strategies for navigating winter transitions, layering, and seasonal overwhelmPain, fatigue, and adapting outdoor experiences to fit different physical needsUsing photography, VR, and creative rituals to stay connected to nature indoors Embracing cosiness, Christmas lights, and simple joys during the winter monthsWhether you find winter draining, chronic pain exhausting, or city life overstimulating, this episode offers practical strategies and heartfelt conversation to remind you that neurodivergent people aren’t broken—the environments we live in often are.Our Sponsors:🧠 RTN Diagnostics - Right to Choose – Autism & ADHD Assessments (UK)🧘‍♀️ Ashley Bentley – Integrative Coaching, Breathwork & Hypnotherapy→ https://bit.ly/ashleynde🔗 Stay ConnectedInstagram: @theneurodivergentexperiencepodFacebook: The Neurodivergent Experience & Jordan's Facebook pageYouTube: @TheNeurodivergentExperienceTikTok: @neurodivergentexperience❤️ Support the ShowIf this episode resonated with you:✅ Follow or Subscribe to The Neurodivergent Experience⭐ Leave a quick review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify🔔 Turn on notifications for new weekly episodes Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Routines can be a lifeline for neurodivergent brains — creating safety, reducing decision fatigue, and bringing balance to daily life. But when structure becomes too rigid, it can tip into pressure and burnout. In this episode of Mindful Mondays with Ashley Bentley, we explore how to build supportive routines that steady you without imprisoning you, weaving in rhythm and play so life feels both grounded and alive. You’ll also be guided through a soothing meditation that helps you reimagine your routines as flexible, life-giving scaffolding — steady enough to hold you, soft enough to bend.✨ Connect with Ashley:🔗 Website: www.integrativeiom.co.uk🔗 Facebook: Integrative IOM🔗 Insight Timer: Ashley Bentley❤️ Support the ShowIf this episode resonated with you:✅ Follow or Subscribe to The Neurodivergent Experience⭐ Leave a quick review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify🔔 Turn on notifications for new weekly episodesOur Sponsors:🧠 RTN Diagnostics - Right to Choose – Autism & ADHD Assessments (UK)🧘‍♀️ Ashley Bentley – Integrative Coaching, Breathwork & Hypnotherapy→ https://bit.ly/ashleynde🔗 Stay ConnectedInstagram: @theneurodivergentexperiencepodFacebook: The Neurodivergent Experience & Jordan's Facebook pageYouTube: @TheNeurodivergentExperienceTikTok: @neurodivergentexperience Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this week’s Hot Topic of The Neurodivergent Experience, Jordan James and Simon Scott tackle the shocking claim made by Donald Trump linking paracetamol (Tylenol) to autism.With humour, rage, and razor-sharp critique, they dismantle the dangerous rhetoric, exposing how misinformation from political leaders fuels stigma, fear, and ableism against autistic and ADHD communities. From debunking pseudoscience to unpacking why terms like “suffering from autism” dehumanise neurodivergent people, this is one of the most important conversations the show has ever hosted.Together, Jordan and Simon discuss:Why Trump’s Tylenol-autism claim is scientifically baseless and politically motivatedThe harm of framing autism as an “epidemic” or “disease”How myths about the Amish and Cubans not being autistic are rooted in underreporting, not realityWhy dangerous rhetoric reduces autistic lives to something “worse than death”The role of correlation vs. causation in autism research and why facts matterHow conspiracy-style politics distract from real issues like healthcare, disability rights, and educationWhether you’re autistic, ADHD, neurodivergent, or care about truth in public discourse, this fiery episode blends sharp advocacy, science, and satire to call out misinformation at the highest levels of power.Our Sponsors:🧠 RTN Diagnostics - Right to Choose – Autism & ADHD Assessments (UK)🧘‍♀️ Ashley Bentley – Integrative Coaching, Breathwork & Hypnotherapy→ https://bit.ly/ashleynde🔗 Stay ConnectedInstagram: @theneurodivergentexperiencepodFacebook: The Neurodivergent Experience & Jordan's Facebook pageYouTube: @TheNeurodivergentExperienceTikTok: @neurodivergentexperience❤️ Support the ShowIf this episode resonated with you:✅ Follow or Subscribe to The Neurodivergent Experience⭐ Leave a quick review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify🔔 Turn on notifications for new weekly episodes Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week’s episode is a re-run — but one that feels more relevant than ever. Recent comments from Donald Trump and Robert F. Kennedy Jr. have falsely suggested a link between paracetamol and autism, adding to the long history of misinformation that fuels stigma and fear.To push back against these harmful narratives, we're revisiting this conversation with Dr. Luke Beardon, Senior Lecturer in Autism at Sheffield Hallam University and author of multiple influential works on autism.In this episode, we explore:Why language matters when talking about autismThe dangers of misinformation — even from professionalsHow “us vs them” thinking harms autistic peopleThe identity challenges faced by those diagnosed later in lifeWhy autistic voices must be central in shaping the narrativeThis is a powerful reminder that autism is not something to be blamed on medicines, parenting, or fearmongering politics — it’s a natural and valuable part of human diversity.Our Sponsors:🧠 RTN Diagnostics - Right to Choose – Autism & ADHD Assessments (UK)🧘‍♀️ Ashley Bentley – Integrative Coaching, Breathwork & Hypnotherapy→ https://bit.ly/ashleynde🔗 Stay ConnectedInstagram: @theneurodivergentexperiencepodFacebook: The Neurodivergent Experience & Jordan's Facebook pageYouTube: @TheNeurodivergentExperienceTikTok: @neurodivergentexperience❤️ Support the ShowIf this episode resonated with you:✅ Follow or Subscribe to The Neurodivergent Experience⭐ Leave a quick review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify🔔 Turn on notifications for new weekly episodes Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How often do you catch yourself thinking I should… or I have to…? In this episode of Mindful Mondays with Ashley Bentley, we explore how the language of pressure and judgment fuels shame, burnout, and disconnection — especially for neurodivergent minds. Ashley shares powerful reframes to shift should into could and have to into get to, restoring choice, gratitude, and presence. You’ll also be guided through a calming yoga nidra-inspired meditation to release expectations and reconnect with freedom and agency.✨ Connect with Ashley:🔗 Website: www.integrativeiom.co.uk🔗 Facebook: Integrative IOM🔗 Insight Timer: Ashley Bentley❤️ Support the ShowIf this episode resonated with you:✅ Follow or Subscribe to The Neurodivergent Experience⭐ Leave a quick review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify🔔 Turn on notifications for new weekly episodesOur Sponsors:🧠 RTN Diagnostics - Right to Choose – Autism & ADHD Assessments (UK)🧘‍♀️ Ashley Bentley – Integrative Coaching, Breathwork & Hypnotherapy→ https://bit.ly/ashleynde🔗 Stay ConnectedInstagram: @theneurodivergentexperiencepodFacebook: The Neurodivergent Experience & Jordan's Facebook pageYouTube: @TheNeurodivergentExperienceTikTok: @neurodivergentexperience Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this week’s Hot Topic episode of The Neurodivergent Experience, Jordan James and Simon Scott unpack a powerful story about a photography exhibition in South Wales titled “But You Don’t Look Autistic.”The exhibition, featuring portraits of autistic children and adults, challenges stereotypes about what autism “should” look like and celebrates unapologetic neurodivergent pride. From purple beards and rubber ducks to teenage voices demanding respect, the project pushes back against patronising attitudes and harmful misconceptions.Jordan and Simon bring their lived experiences into the conversation, reflecting on:Why the phrase “you don’t look autistic” is so damaging (even when meant kindly)The role of art, photography, and visibility in changing perceptionsEveryday examples of condescension and infantilization faced by autistic adultsThe need for neurodivergent pride and representation over awareness campaignsStories of ableism—from airports to festivals—that highlight how disability is still misunderstoodWhy invisible disabilities matter, and how assumptions harm neurodivergent peopleRead the article here.This episode blends humour, frustration, and hope—spotlighting the importance of representation and the freedom to be unapologetically neurodivergent.Our Sponsors:🧠 RTN Diagnostics - Right to Choose – Autism & ADHD Assessments (UK)🧘‍♀️ Ashley Bentley – Integrative Coaching, Breathwork & Hypnotherapy→ https://bit.ly/ashleynde🔗 Stay ConnectedInstagram: @theneurodivergentexperiencepodFacebook: The Neurodivergent Experience & Jordan's Facebook pageYouTube: @TheNeurodivergentExperienceTikTok: @neurodivergentexperience❤️ Support the ShowIf this episode resonated with you:✅ Follow or Subscribe to The Neurodivergent Experience⭐ Leave a quick review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify🔔 Turn on notifications for new weekly episodes Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of The Neurodivergent Experience, Jordan James and Simon Scott dive deep into the often-overlooked concept of object permanence and how it shapes the everyday lives of autistic and ADHD adults.From misplaced wallets to forgotten birthdays, Jordan and Simon unpack the challenges of “out of sight, out of mind” thinking, and how it impacts relationships, routines, and self-esteem. With humor and honesty, they share personal stories—from paramedic rescues and lost headphones to missed social events—that highlight both the struggles and resilience of neurodivergent living.Together, they explore:What object permanence really means and how it links to autism, ADHD, and executive dysfunctionWhy neurodivergent people often forget tasks, dates, or even loved ones when they’re out of viewHow these challenges can damage friendships, work, and self-confidence—and why it’s not lazinessPractical tools that help: reminders, shared calendars, “don’t put it down, put it back” hacks, and supportive partnersWhy patience, self-advocacy, and understanding from others make all the differenceWhether you constantly lose your keys, forget social plans, or feel guilty about being “that friend who never shows up,” this episode offers relatable stories, validation, and strategies to help you feel less alone.❤️ Support the ShowIf this episode resonated with you:✅ Follow or Subscribe to The Neurodivergent Experience⭐ Leave a quick review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify🔔 Turn on notifications for new weekly episodesOur Sponsors:🧠 RTN Diagnostics - Right to Choose – Autism & ADHD Assessments (UK)🧘‍♀️ Ashley Bentley – Integrative Coaching, Breathwork & Hypnotherapy→ https://bit.ly/ashleynde🔗 Stay ConnectedInstagram: @theneurodivergentexperiencepodFacebook: The Neurodivergent Experience & Jordan's Facebook pageYouTube: @TheNeurodivergentExperienceTikTok: @neurodivergentexperience Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What if time isn’t your enemy, but a rhythm you can learn to flow with? In this episode of Mindful Mondays with Ashley Bentley, we delve into time blindness, rushing, and the “hurry-up driver” that can trigger panic in neurodivergent brains. Ashley reframes time as a dance partner, not a deadline, and shares practices for syncing with your body’s natural rhythms. Plus, enjoy a guided meditation to release urgency and discover presence inside each moment.✨ Connect with Ashley:🔗 Website: www.integrativeiom.co.uk🔗 Facebook: Integrative IOM🔗 Insight Timer: Ashley Bentley❤️ Support the ShowIf this episode resonated with you:✅ Follow or Subscribe to The Neurodivergent Experience⭐ Leave a quick review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify🔔 Turn on notifications for new weekly episodesOur Sponsors:🧠 RTN Diagnostics - Right to Choose – Autism & ADHD Assessments (UK)🧘‍♀️ Ashley Bentley – Integrative Coaching, Breathwork & Hypnotherapy→ https://bit.ly/ashleynde🔗 Stay ConnectedInstagram: @theneurodivergentexperiencepodFacebook: The Neurodivergent Experience & Jordan's Facebook pageYouTube: @TheNeurodivergentExperienceTikTok: @neurodivergentexperience Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this Hot Topic episode of The Neurodivergent Experience, Jordan James and Simon Scott react to new research showing that over 90% of autistic adults over 40 in the UK are undiagnosed.They break down a recent article highlighting the seven key signs of autism in adults aged 40+, while reflecting on their own lived experiences and the challenges of late diagnosis. With humour and honesty, they explore why so many autistic people go through life without answers. Read the article hereTogether, Jordan and Simon discuss:Why autism often goes undiagnosed in adults over 40, 50, and even 60+The seven subtle signs of autism in later life (routine, sensory sensitivities, social rules, and more)The impact of masking and how it becomes harder to spot autism with ageWhy getting a diagnosis matters—accommodations, self-understanding, and family supportThe difference between lived experience vs. clinical descriptions of autismHow the Right to Choose program is helping thousands skip years-long NHS waiting listsWhether you’re exploring autism later in life, supporting a loved one, or just curious about late diagnosis, this episode blends research, advocacy, and lived insight to shed light on a “missing generation” of undiagnosed autistics.❤️ Support the ShowIf this episode resonated with you:✅ Follow or Subscribe to The Neurodivergent Experience⭐ Leave a quick review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify🔔 Turn on notifications for new weekly episodesOur Sponsors:🧠 RTN Diagnostics - Right to Choose – Autism & ADHD Assessments (UK)🧘‍♀️ Ashley Bentley – Integrative Coaching, Breathwork & Hypnotherapy→ https://bit.ly/ashleynde🔗 Stay ConnectedInstagram: @theneurodivergentexperiencepodFacebook: The Neurodivergent Experience & Jordan's Facebook pageYouTube: @TheNeurodivergentExperienceTikTok: @neurodivergentexperience Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of The Neurodivergent Experience, Jordan James and Simon Scott share their lived experiences with sensory hypersensitivity — from painful sounds, bright lights, and strong smells to the surprising joys of heightened senses.They explore:Why sensory overload is so disabling for autistic & ADHD adultsThe difference between hypersensitivity and hyposensitivityHow noise-cancelling headphones, sunglasses, and environmental changes can helpThe emotional side of hypersensitivity: empathy, overstimulation & burnoutReframing sensitivity as both a challenge and a hidden strengthIf you’ve ever struggled with noise sensitivity, light sensitivity, or sensory overload, this conversation offers practical tools, validation, and humour to help you feel less alone.❤️ Support the ShowIf this episode resonated with you:✅ Follow or Subscribe to The Neurodivergent Experience⭐ Leave a quick review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify🔔 Turn on notifications for new weekly episodesOur Sponsors:🧠 RTN Diagnostics - Right to Choose – Autism & ADHD Assessments (UK)🧘‍♀️ Ashley Bentley – Integrative Coaching, Breathwork & Hypnotherapy→ https://bit.ly/ashleynde🔗 Stay ConnectedInstagram: @theneurodivergentexperiencepodFacebook: The Neurodivergent Experience & Jordan's Facebook pageYouTube: @TheNeurodivergentExperienceTikTok: @neurodivergentexperience Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Start your week with clarity and calm. In this pilot of Mindful Mondays with Ashley Bentley, discover how presence and acceptance can transform overwhelm, ease the neurodivergent mind, and help you let go of the “second arrow” of suffering. Plus, enjoy a guided meditation to ground, reset, and carry you into the week with purpose.✨ Connect with Ashley:🔗 Website: www.integrativeiom.co.uk🔗 Facebook: Integrative IOM🔗 Insight Timer: Ashley Bentley❤️ Support the ShowIf this episode resonated with you:✅ Follow or Subscribe to The Neurodivergent Experience⭐ Leave a quick review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify🔔 Turn on notifications for new weekly episodesOur Sponsors:🧠 RTN Diagnostics - Right to Choose – Autism & ADHD Assessments (UK)🧘‍♀️ Ashley Bentley – Integrative Coaching, Breathwork & Hypnotherapy→ https://bit.ly/ashleynde🔗 Stay ConnectedInstagram: @theneurodivergentexperiencepodFacebook: The Neurodivergent Experience & Jordan's Facebook pageYouTube: @TheNeurodivergentExperienceTikTok: @neurodivergentexperience Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this eye-opening episode of The Neurodivergent Experience, Jordan James and Simon Scott unpack the growing awareness of Rejection Sensitivity Dysphoria (RSD) in relation to ADHD and autism—and why naming it can be life-changing.Drawing from their lived experiences, they explore the emotional rollercoaster of RSD, from spiralling thoughts after a delayed text message to sleepless nights replaying old conversations. With humour, honesty, and hard-won insight, Jordan and Simon highlight how mainstream recognition of RSD is slowly catching up to what the neurodivergent community has been saying for years.Together, they discuss:What Rejection Sensitivity Dysphoria really feels like for ADHDers and autistic peopleWhy naming RSD creates distance, self-awareness, and practical coping strategiesHow therapy (and finding the right therapist) can help untangle emotional floodsThe importance of starting young—teaching kids resilience, boundaries, and emotional languageWhy harmful advice from mainstream parenting “experts” can traumatise neurodivergent childrenTools that actually help: clarity in communication, gentle feedback, and community validationWhether you’re navigating RSD yourself, parenting neurodivergent kids, or trying to understand a loved one’s inner world, this conversation blends science, lived experience, and humour to bring comfort, clarity, and hope.The article discussed in this episode❤️ Support the ShowIf this episode resonated with you:✅ Follow or Subscribe to The Neurodivergent Experience⭐ Leave a quick review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify🔔 Turn on notifications for new weekly episodesOur Sponsors:🧠 RTN Diagnostics - Right to Choose – Autism & ADHD Assessments (UK)🧘‍♀️ Ashley Bentley – Integrative Coaching, Breathwork & Hypnotherapy→ https://bit.ly/ashleynde🔗 Stay ConnectedInstagram: @theneurodivergentexperiencepodFacebook: The Neurodivergent Experience & Jordan's Facebook pageYouTube: @TheNeurodivergentExperienceTikTok: @neurodivergentexperience Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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🔔 Turn on notifications for new weekly episodesOur Sponsors:🧠 RTN Diagnostics - Right to Choose – Autism & ADHD Assessments (UK)🧘‍♀️ Ashley Bentley – Integrative Coaching, Breathwork & Hypnotherapy→ https://bit.ly/ashleynde🔗 Stay ConnectedInstagram: @theneurodivergentexperiencepodFacebook: The Neurodivergent Experience & Jordan's Facebook pageYouTube: @TheNeurodivergentExperienceTikTok: @neurodivergentexperience Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Can you spot the difference between real advocacy and AI fakery? In this week’s NeuroSpicy Hot Topic from The Neurodivergent Experience, hosts Jordan James and Simon Scott dive into the disturbing rise of AI-generated disability accounts — fake profiles posing as disabled people to chase likes, sympathy, and cash.From TikTok to Instagram, and from stolen advocacy posts to AI-created faces, we explore:How AI accounts impersonate disabled people and outpace real advocatesThe ethics of “sympathy as currency” online — when does support turn into exploitation?Jordan’s experience with stolen posts, fake profiles, and even AI-like accusations against his photographyThe thin line between AI as accessibility (non-speaking advocates finding a voice) and AI as deceptionWhy fakes fuel distrust of genuine disabled creators and advocacy communitiesThe psychology of comments, trolls, and why negativity drowns out thousands of quiet supportersHow AI deepfakes risk eroding trust in images, podcasts, and even our own wordsWhether you’re fascinated, fearful, or just fed up with online scams, this conversation blends advocacy, ethics, and plenty of neurospicy humour to ask: what happens when disability itself becomes content to counterfeit?❤️ Support the ShowIf this episode resonated with you:✅ Follow or Subscribe to The Neurodivergent Experience⭐ Leave a quick review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify🔔 Turn on notifications for new weekly episodesOur Sponsors:🧘‍♀️ Ashley Bentley – Integrative Coaching, Breathwork & Hypnotherapy→ https://bit.ly/ashleynde🧠 RTN Mental Health Solutions – Autism & ADHD Assessments (UK)→ Use code RTN23 for a discount when making your initial enquiry.🔗 Stay ConnectedInstagram: @theneurodivergentexperiencepodFacebook: The Neurodivergent Experience & Jordan's Facebook pageYouTube: @TheNeurodivergentExperienceTikTok: @neurodivergentexperience Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this eye-opening episode of The Neurodivergent Experience, Simon Scott is joined by hypnotherapist and breathwork practitioner Ashley Bentley to explore the hidden links between Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS), hypermobility, and neurodivergence.Ashley shares her personal journey with EDS—from chronic pain and joint dislocations to navigating misdiagnosis and medical dismissal—and how it overlaps with autism, ADHD, and sensory sensitivities. Together, Simon and Ashley discuss:The everyday challenges of living with invisible illnesses like EDSThe connection between nervous system regulation and mental healthHow Spoon Theory helps manage energy and prevent burnoutSupport strategies for those living with chronic fatigue, hypermobility, and neurodivergenceThe importance of self-advocacy, self-compassion, and adapting your lifestyleWhether you’re newly diagnosed, exploring possible symptoms, or supporting a loved one, this conversation offers validation, practical tips, and a reminder that you’re not alone.❤️ Support the ShowIf this episode resonated with you:✅ Follow or Subscribe to The Neurodivergent Experience⭐ Leave a quick review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify🔔 Turn on notifications for new weekly episodesOur Sponsors:🧘‍♀️ Ashley Bentley – Integrative Coaching, Breathwork & Hypnotherapy→ https://bit.ly/ashleynde🧠 RTN Mental Health Solutions – Autism & ADHD Assessments (UK)→ Use code RTN23 for a discount when making your initial enquiry.🔗 Stay ConnectedInstagram: @theneurodivergentexperiencepodFacebook: The Neurodivergent Experience & Jordan's Facebook pageYouTube: @TheNeurodivergentExperienceTikTok: @neurodivergentexperience Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.