Tourette's Podcast

In this episode, we sit down with Simon, a 31-year-old from the Toronto area, to talk about his personal journey living with Tourette Syndrome and OCD. Simon shares what it was like growing up without knowing anyone else with Tourette's, navigating early symptoms that were often dismissed, and the persistence it took for his family to finally get a diagnosis. He opens up about the overlap between Tourette Syndrome and co-occurring conditions like anxiety and OCD—and how those connections have shown up in his own life. We also dive into the impact of COVID-19, exploring how isolation, stress, and life changes affected both tics and mental health. Simon offers a unique perspective on how some aspects of the pandemic brought comfort and connection, while others intensified challenges. One of the most powerful parts of this conversation is Simon's approach to managing OCD—personifying it as "Bob"—and learning how to separate intrusive thoughts from his sense of self. It's an insightful and relatable strategy that many listeners may find helpful. Now stepping into advocacy, Simon is using his experiences to educate others through public speaking, sharing his story in schools and community spaces to break down misconceptions and increase understanding of Tourette Syndrome.

This week we speak to Jessisca who talks to us about how she was diagnosed with Tourette Syndrome later in life and her life as a full-time author! Jessica has published five books over the last decade, two of which are directly related to Tourette Syndrome. Her latest book is titled Madamn and is about a woman who went her whole life without knowing she had Tourette Syndrome. This was another incredible interview and we know you're going to love it!  If you or anyone you know would like to know more about Tourette Syndrome or are looking for resources, please visit tourette.org 

This week, we are joined by Felix and his parents! Felix is an amazing young man who has been diagnosed with Tourette Syndrome and has become quite the advocate with a list of accomplishments, including being a Key Note Speaker at just 12 years old! Tune in to learn more about Felix, where we get into School, accommodations, and so much more!  If you'd like to learn more about Tourette Syndrome or need resources to help, visit tourette.org today. 

After a small(ish) break, we're back with the first episode of Season 10! And what better guests than Amanda and Ellie! They graciously came on the podcast to discuss how Amanda and Ellie navigate school with Tourette Syndrome, how the school has supported them, and what has been included in their 504/IEP plans to help Ellie access the necessary resources to succeed in school. This episode is helpful for those with questions on how to navigate school, teachers, and advocating for yourself! If you would like to be a guest on Tourette's Podcast, reach out to us on Instragram or through email at [email protected]

In this episode Jhonelle and Britney speak to Shadayne, an incredible woman from Jamaica who shares her story of diagnosis, daily life, and the ups and downs of living with Tourette Syndrome. Shadayne brings a light to being diagnosed as an adult, what it's like to live with Coprolalia as a person who is not comfortable with swearing and learning how to live inside of a body that she can no longer control. This is a great episode and one that is sure to teach so many people so much! Tune in and remember to subscribe to never miss an episode! And if you want to be a guest on the podcast, send us an email at [email protected]    For more information and resources regarding Tourette Syndrome and other tic disorders, visit the Tourette Association of America at tourette.org. Fight stigma, raise awareness, expand community.