No Such Thing as Normal

We all know what Tourette’s is - or we think we do.  But this is a condition that is largely misunderstood and routinely misrepresented. Only around 10% of those with Tourette’s syndrome have the ‘swearing tic’ - coprolalia.  But the other vocal and motor tics can be just as debilitating. In this episode, Sonia speaks to Tiktok sensation, Leighton Clarke - aka Uncle Tics. He now embraces his Tourette’s and encourages others to do the same. We also hear from Fyfe, a bubbly and creative 10-year-old. Her mother Amanda describes Fyfe’s journey - from the occasional tic, to a diagnosis of Tourette’s syndrome. And clinical psychologist, Hilary Mack, talks about the connection between Tourette’s Syndrome, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder and ADHD. Guests:Leighton Clarke (Uncle Tics) TiktokFyfe and AmandaHilary Mack Hilary Mack Psychology Resources: Tourette’s Association of NZ Instagram - No Such Thing as Normal PodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A diagnosis of ADHD, autism or dyslexia is merely an indication that your brain works in a different - and exciting - way. So why are the rates of co-occurring anxiety and depression so high for neurodivergent people?   In this episode, Sonia talks to 16-year-old Emily Martin, who has ADHD, dyslexia and dyscalculia.  Emily suffered from intense anxiety and low self-esteem throughout her primary school years. Therapist Jane Kjersten explains the specific type of trauma that can come from feeling ‘lesser than’, and suggests ways to heal from the emotional pain. Guests: Emily and Jo MartinJane Kjersten Jane Kjersten Therapist  Instagram - No Such Thing as Normal Podcast  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dyspraxia (or Developmental Coordination Disorder) is more than just a difficulty tying shoelaces or riding a bike.  It impacts almost every aspect of life, and the effort to carry out basic tasks can be exhausting. Sonia talks to Bayley Garnham, a 24 year old Personal Trainer, who has dyspraxia and dysgraphia. Dyspraxic kids often give up on sports early, but Bayley wants to change that.  He believes these kids need a different approach to learning sports. And Sensory Integration Practitioner, Elen Nathan, explains what dyspraxia/DCD is - and what’s going on inside the minds of those with this ‘hidden’ condition. Guests:Bayley Garnham bayley garnham – personal trainerElen Nathan The Playful Place Instagram - No Such Thing as Normal Podcast Resources:  Dyspraxia NZSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The parents of kids with neurodifferences face multiple challenges. But while navigating a broken system is exhausting, the constant scrutiny of your parenting can be worse. In this episode, Sonia talks to TVNZ’s 1News at 6 presenter, Melissa Stokes and Newstalk ZB Host, Francesca Rudkin about advocating for their children. And researcher Willow Sainsbury, explains why the go-to suggestion of ‘parenting courses’ can be so distressing for parents. Guests:Melissa StokesFrancesca RudkinWillow Sainsbury Research Study on Parent's ExperiencesInstagram - No Such Thing as Normal Podcast Resources:Online Every Day with ADHD Parenting Evening CourseProgrammes Archive - Autism NZSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  Parenting a neurodivergent child is wonderful, but it’s challenging.  Often, it can feel like the only people who understand are other parents on the same road. In this episode, Sonia talks to Francesca Rudkin, who had to navigate life with a daughter in crisis, before ADHD was identified. We meet members of the ‘Dad’s Autism Support Group’ in Auckland who all have kids with high-needs on the autism spectrum. They say connecting with each other regularly, and sharing the highs - and the lows - has been invaluable. And educational psychologist, Willow Sainsbury, talks about the experience for parents getting a diagnosis and support.  The main theme of her research study was ‘the battle’. Guests:Francesca RudkinPeter, Mac, Noah and Gareth from the Dad’s Autism Support GroupWillow Sainsbury Research Study on Parent's Experiences Instagram - No Such Thing as Normal PodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The rates of ADHD and dyslexia in prisons is staggering.  But these same neurotypes are also more likely to be successful CEO’s and entrepreneurs.  So where is the fork in the road? What leads someone down the wrong path? Sonia Gray talks to Ricky Wakelin, a kind and gentle father-of-two. In the early 2000’s Ricky’s life had spiralled out of control. He was addicted to hard drugs and was eventually incarcerated for armed robbery.   Three years ago, an assessment confirmed that Ricky has ADHD.  The diagnosis has helped him understand the reasons behind his lifelong struggle with things like emotional regulation and hypersensitivity. Sonia also talks to forensic psychologist Anton Ashcroft, who explains why those with ADHD are often drawn to illicit substances.  He talks about the value of connection, and why this - rather than tougher consequences - is so important for the rehabilitation of offenders. Guests:  Ricky Wakelin Anton Ashcroft - Forensic Psychologist Resources: ADHD NZInstagram - No Such Thing as Normal PodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It’s very difficult to get by in society when you don’t use words to communicate.  Non-speaking autistic people tend to be invisible, unless they are ‘causing a problem’.  Olympic rower Eric Murray is father to 12 year-old Zac, who is autistic and ADHD.  He talks to Sonia Gray about the challenges, the joys and the desperate need for support and understanding. Guests:  Eric MurrayAnna Middleton - Senior Behaviour Specialist - Explore ServicesResources: Autism NZ https://autismnz.org.nzInstagram - No Such Thing as Normal PodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Many autistic people have spent their lives masking, but it’s an exhausting and inauthentic way to live. Now, as understanding around neurodivergence grows, many autistics are choosing to ‘unmask’ and embrace their differences. Autistic comedian Abby Howells has found success as her authentic, ‘unmasked’ self on stage. The things she used to hate about herself are now working for her.  And she wants to encourage other autistic people to lean into who they truly are. Guests:  Abby Howells InstagramDr Sarah Watson Totally Psyched Instagram - No Such Thing as Normal PodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode Sonia Gray finds out how vital people with dyslexia are to the survival of the human race  - they're the explorers, creative thinkers and problem solvers.She talks to poet and playwright, Dominic Hoey, who has written award-winning books, despite his reading challenges. And dyslexic researcher and champion, Dr Ruth Gibbons, talks about the importance of movement for dyslexics.  GUESTS:   Dr Ruth Gibbons - Massey University Social Anthropology lecturer Dominic Hoey - Writer Oliver and Amy Williams RESOURCES:The Dyslexia Foundation of NZSPELDLearn To Write GoodSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dyslexia has long been thought of as that thing that makes it hard to read - and people are often made to feel dumb because of it.But we're learning more and more that reading and writing isn't really an issue. In fact some dyslexics read brilliantly - before they even start school - it's just once they're in the classroom they're lost and left behind in a curriculum that doesn't work for them. In this episode Sonia Gray finds out about how schools are failing our dyslexic kids, and how the trauma of education is deep-rooted right into adulthood. She speaks to Michael McWilliams who found school a nightmare, dropped out at 15, then turned his life around. And dyslexic researcher and champion, Dr Ruth Gibbons, who talks about the amazing strengths of the dyslexic mind. GUESTS:   Dr Ruth Gibbons - Massey University Social Anthropology lecturer Michael McWilliams - 23-year-old entrepreuner Jane Kjersten - Michael's mother See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

WARNING: This episode does contain explicit language  Autism and ADHD were always thought of as mutually exclusive conditions, but in recent years it’s become possible to get a diagnosis of both.   Now, more and more people are recognising they have traits of both autism and ADHD, commonly known as ‘AuDHD’. But because of the opposing nature of these neurotypes, ‘AuDHD’ can feel like an internal ‘tug-of war’. In this episode Sonia Gray speaks to Rich Rowley and Annabelle March, who describe their lived-experience as AuDHDers.   And Clinical Psychologist Sarah Watson, talks about the challenges, and strengths that come with these unique minds. GUESTS:   Dr Sarah Watson, Clinical Psychologist, Totally Psyched Rich Rowley Annabelle March  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

WARNING: This episode does contain explicit language  There’s been a sharp rise in the number of adults seeking ADHD assessments, and for many a diagnosis can be the answer to a lifetime of struggle. Musician Anika Moa was diagnosed with ADHD a few years ago. She tells Sonia Gray about the mental health battles she’s endured, and the positive changes a diagnosis has made to her life.  And ADHD coach, Alex Campbell says that ADHD is about much more than focus and attention.  He explains how Executive Functions work and says the key factor is that ADHD brains are driven by interest, not importance. Guests: Anika Moa Alex Campbell, ADHD Coach Resources: VIA Character Strengths The six cluster of Executive Functions ADHD NZ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The whirr of an air conditioner; the feeling of socks on your feet;  the sound of other people breathing:  Sensory challenges are arbitrary, but they can cause acute distress. In this episode, host Sonia Gray talks to three guests who experience the world in BOLD And Sensory Integration Specialist, Elen Nathan, unpacks what’s happening in the eight sensory systems, and how we can best support those who have sensory sensitivities.  She also explains why chicken nuggets are the one food most kids can eat.  GUESTS:   Elen Nathan, Occupational Therapist, The Playful Place Amber-Rose Nikolas Bec  Annabelle  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

OCD is largely thought of as an aversion to germs and excessive hand washing, but it’s far more complicated than that. Obsessive thoughts can be around almost anything, and the compulsive behaviour that accompanies it can be debilitating for the individual and their whānau.  Up to 80 000 New Zealanders live with OCD but less than 10% have sought treatment.  In this final episode of the series, Sonia talks to 17-year-old Poppy, who gives a brave insight into her OCD. And we hear from some of the many people and groups who are driving change in the neurodiversity space.  Guests:  Poppy Armiger  Helena Armiger  Jock Matthews Rojolie Clinic  Professor David Coghill AADPA  Darrin Bull   Jo Charman Autism NZ  Tanya Blakey Autism NZ  Susan Haldane Mind Over Manner  Rich Rowley Brain Badge    Facebook: Kids Wired Differently  Instagram: nosuchthingasnormalpodcast    Resources OCD:   OCD NZ  Fixate Facebook Group    Other Resources:  ADHD NZ  Autism NZ  Dyslexia NZ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dyslexia is still thought of a problem with reading and writing but that’s just a small part of the picture; those who are dyslexic experience the world in a completely different way.   This episode looks at some of the lesser-known dyslexic characteristics, the best ways to support dyslexic learners and we look at how ‘shame’ is such a huge issue for those who learn differently.  Documentary: Unlocking Potential  Guests:   Kimberley Crossman  Dr Ruth Gibbons www.ruth-gibbons.com  Vanessa Victor Remarkable Minds  Helen Armiger  Ruby Armiger  Elliot Jones Unlocking Potential See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Neurodivergent people respond to the environment in unique ways. Occasionally, if their nervous systems are overwhelmed, the body responds by going into a meltdown. Sensory overload, communication challenges and sensitivity to demands can all contribute to this temporary loss of control of behaviour. We’re often quick to judge the behaviour we’re seeing, but this is just the tip of the iceberg.  In this episode Sonia talks to a dad who has radically changed his parenting style to support his ADHD/Autistic children.  And we hear from neurodivergent people about what causes a meltdown and what the experience feels like for them.  Guests:   Rob Newlove Parenting Unique Children  Sophie Newlove  Matt Frost  Nick Marsh  Lucy Charles Paediatric OT  Dani  Sharyn Gousmett  Willow Corner See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Although we think of ADHD as being a mostly male condition, it is just as prevalent in females. However, the diagnosis rates tell a different story - females are less than half as likely to be identified as having this neurological condition. Women tend to be better at suppressing and internalising their emotions.   But things like Rejection Sensitivity Disorder, intolerance to boredom, poor executive function and time blindness are very real, and they can significantly impact an individual’s quality of life.   In this episode, we look at ways we can work with the ADHD brain - rather than against it - by identifying the many strengths of ADHD. And Sonia chats to broadcaster Hayley Holt about her experience as a late-diagnosed ADHDer.   Guests: Dr. Sarah Watson Totally Psyched   Hayley Holt David Coghill AADPA Rich Rowley Brain Badge Alex Campbell   Resources: ADHD NZ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode we continue looking at whether our education system is meeting the needs of neurodivergent children. We ask: What are the supports and accommodations available? Do you need an official diagnosis of dyslexia to qualify for a reader/writer? And why are stand downs and exclusions so common for kids who are autistic or ADHD?  Facebook: Kids Wired Differently  Guests:   Rachel King and Theo  Pippa Biggs Include Me - Specialist Education Services  Tom Little Pukare Cards  Anna Coleman  Helen McDonald See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In Aotearoa, we pride ourselves on our inclusive education system.  But is that really the experience for kids who are Autistic, ADHD, Dyslexic or Gifted? Over two episodes we ask: Is our education system really meeting the needs of neurodivergent children, their families and the teachers that support them?   Sonia talks to students, parents and specialist teachers about their experiences in the education system, and what they think works best for children who learn differently.  Facebook:  Kids Wired Differently  Guests:  Rich Rowley  brainbadge.org  Maximiliano Pierret Massey University  Helen McDonald Include Me - Specialist Education Services  Sarah Hinchey sarah.hinchey@pg.canterbury.ac.nz  Kimi Cotter  Sarah Hinchey is a PhD candidate at Canterbury University. She is doing a research study on reading comprehension and multisensory integration in autistic children. Sarah is currently recruiting participants aged 8-12 years, autistic and neurotypical, in the Canterbury region and Auckland.  The method involves a wireless EEG system that measures the electrical activity in the brain. EEG is a harmless and objective method which can provide crucial information on how these amazing brains process reading material. This will enable the development of a strengths-based reading support strategy specific for autistic learners.  If you are interested in taking part you can email Sarah at sarah.hinchey@pg.canterbury.ac.nz.  More information can be found at this FB page: UCSpeechLab See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

There is growing awareness and acceptance of neurodivergent profiles like ADHD, autism and dyslexia. But even with a diagnosis, accommodations and support, the world can be an unfriendly place for people whose brains are wired differently.  Sonia chats to her guests about the importance of belonging, what ‘bad behaviour’ is really telling us and asks, “does ‘normal’ really exist?”  Guests:  Jock Matthews Rojolie Clinic  Sue Haldane Mind Over Manner  Raewyn Heays ADHD NZ  Jane Yee  Joey  Kimi and Ihaka  Resources:  Dyslexia Foundation of NZ  NZ Centre for Gifted Education  Autism NZ  ADHD NZ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.