Curiosity isn't just a trait; it's a transformative tool. Join me, as I recount my journey growing up on the autism spectrum and how the simple act of asking myself questions has fundamentally reshaped my life. From struggling to understand social cues and figurative language to mastering effective communication, I share the personal milestones that have helped me thrive. Learn how focusing my curiosity on topics of genuine interest has not only improved my language skills, but also enabled me to form meaningful connections and succeed in collaborative projects.

In this episode, I delve into how questioning can deepen our understanding of complex subjects like astrophysics and ecology. Ever wondered about the roles of dark matter and dark energy in the universe's expansion, or why grass grows differently in various park areas? By exploring possible solutions to these questions, I illustrate how a curious mind can lead to groundbreaking insights and critical thinking. You'll also gain practical tips on consulting diverse sources to develop a well-rounded perspective. Tune in to discover how fostering a habit of asking yourself questions and exploring answers can make a profound impact on your personal and professional life.

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Thanks for listening. You can find me on my website stephensevolution.com, or on twitter here. You can sign up to receive news of new episodes when they're released here.


Artwork produced by Elena Designe
Music composed by Nela Ruiz

Have you ever wondered how creative writing could be a bridge to understanding and acceptance of neurodiversity? Join me, Stephen McHugh, on this eye-opening episode of Stephen's Evolution podcast, where I share my personal journey overcoming delayed language development and literal interpretations of idioms to become a better storyteller. 

I reflect on how special interests of mine, like Lego and astronomy, have fuelled my imagination and how creating neurodiverse characters in my stories has fostered greater acceptance and awareness. I reveal practical strategies that have helped me connect deeply with my interests through creative writing, and how these techniques could make idioms and figurative language more accessible for those on the autism spectrum.

During the episode I refer to a character named Alex from an example of creative writing based on an idea of mine. He is supposed to be a neurodivergent character with an extraordinary talent for art. One aim for me here is to try and inspire new ways to recognise and value unique talents. Through a supportive character named Emily, I highlight how empathy and understanding can significantly, and positively impact the lives of neurodivergent individuals. 

Dive into my tips for crafting vivid, sensory-rich scenes and relatable characters, and gain insights on how to raise awareness and promote acceptance through your own creative writing. 

Finally, I encourage you to share your creative endeavours and join this community in building support for neurodiversity. Your engagement can help spread awareness and foster a community that celebrates neurodiverse talents and experiences.

Send me your comments and questions

Thanks for listening. You can find me on my website stephensevolution.com, or on twitter here. You can sign up to receive news of new episodes when they're released here.


Artwork produced by Elena Designe
Music composed by Nela Ruiz

Ever wondered how reconnecting with a lost passion can transform your life? Discover my heartfelt journey back into the world of running on the latest episode of Stephen's Evolution podcast. From reminiscing about my teenage years when running was just a summer fling, to now embracing it as a crucial part of my weekly routine, this episode is a testament to how the simplest activities can bring about profound changes. I talk about how running not only helps me stay fit but also reconnects me with nature, builds resilience, and boosts my confidence. 

Get an inside look at my structured training week, where I mix slow-paced runs, hill training, and the exhilarating 5k park runs. I also delve into the tools that keep me on track, from inspirational YouTube channels to the Strava app that meticulously logs my progress. Celebrate with me as I share significant milestones, like breaking my sub-25 minute 5k barrier, and gather practical tips on how to prepare for your runs. Whether you're a seasoned runner or just looking for a motivational push, this episode is packed with personal insights and actionable advice to help you find joy in running. Tune in and let’s hit the ground running together!

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Thanks for listening. You can find me on my website stephensevolution.com, or on twitter here. You can sign up to receive news of new episodes when they're released here.


Artwork produced by Elena Designe
Music composed by Nela Ruiz

Ever wondered how to truly understand the hidden meanings in stories and social interactions? Join me, as I share my personal insights in navigating the world of inferences while living on the autism spectrum. Reflect on my struggles and triumphs, and learn how language development and dedicated study played pivotal roles in enhancing my ability to draw subtle conclusions. I aim to try and break down the different types of inferences—from environmental and character interaction to social situations and hidden motives—and explore their significance in storytelling and everyday life.

This episode is packed with an interactive practical exercise aimed at boosting inference-making skills. Discover how to deduce the culprit in a broken vase incident or interpret social cues at a party. Engage with tips like reading illustrated books, studying body language, and observing real-life interactions to master the art of inference. Whether you aim to navigate stories more effectively or improve your social understanding, this episode offers actionable insights and strategies to help you decode hidden meanings and enhance your communication skills.

Send me your comments and questions

Thanks for listening. You can find me on my website stephensevolution.com, or on twitter here. You can sign up to receive news of new episodes when they're released here.


Artwork produced by Elena Designe
Music composed by Nela Ruiz

Do you find idioms and metaphors become more puzzling than a Rubik's Cube at a Mensa meeting? If so, why not embark on an adventure through the whimsical world of language with me as your guide, where I aim to unravel the mysteries of "piece of cake" and "thrown in the deep end" with a dash of wit and a heap of understanding. For those on the autism spectrum, and frankly anyone who's ever scratched their head at a confusing turn of phrase, this episode can guide you to mastering the art of figurative language. Discover the joy of "Short Idiom Stories" from my blog, where I spin yarns that transform baffling idioms into crystal-clear narratives.

Armed with personal anecdotes and a treasure trove of strategies, I open up the conversation to you, my listeners, to share your idiom escapades and victories over vexing vocabulary. Whether you've faced challenges or championed clarity in the realm of idioms, your stories and experiences can be the lifeblood of this linguistic odyssey. And if you're eager for more than just anecdotes, fret not! Tips galore await on how to craft your own idiom-loaded stories, sketch out visual aids, and peel back the layers of context behind these colourful expressions. So tune in, connect, and let's paint the town red with the vibrant brushstrokes of language.

Send me your comments and questions

Thanks for listening. You can find me on my website stephensevolution.com, or on twitter here. You can sign up to receive news of new episodes when they're released here.


Artwork produced by Elena Designe
Music composed by Nela Ruiz

Embark on a revealing odyssey through the lens of my life with autism—where everyday interactions can be a complex puzzle of nonverbal cues and figurative speech. During this episode, I aim to unravel the threads of social navigation and the acute sensory sensitivities that can transform a typical environment into an overwhelming cacophony. As someone living on the spectrum, I offer an intimate glimpse into the challenges and triumphs, from wrestling with communication breakdowns to harnessing the extraordinary focus that can accompany specific passions.

This episode is more than just another chapter in my story; it's a call to action—to subscribe, to engage, to join forces in cultivating resilience and hope. Your active participation can be the cornerstone of this community, a testament to the power of shared experiences and the beauty in diversity. As we journey together, let's commit to understanding, to personal growth, and to a world that listens to and values every unique perspective.

Send me your comments and questions

Thanks for listening. You can find me on my website stephensevolution.com, or on twitter here. You can sign up to receive news of new episodes when they're released here.


Artwork produced by Elena Designe
Music composed by Nela Ruiz

Step into the world of numbers as seen through the eyes of someone who doesn't just understand mathematic but sometimes gets excited about it. Here, I take you on an adventure, drawing you into an understanding of mathematics intertwined with the nuanced perspectives of an autistic mind. Imagine carving up a pizza not just to savour its flavour but to digest fractions, or handing out chocolates to friends, each leftover piece a tangible reminder of division with remainders. It's a session where trigonometry escapes the confines of textbooks, scaling the heights of real-world edifices, and where special interests like the solar system and Lego transform into living, breathing mathematical playgrounds.

Now, let's translate that mathematical magic into your everyday life. We venture beyond theory to practice as we uncover the algebra in sports scores and sums in the shopping aisles. Ever consider how integrating 3x² can lead to sharper strategies, or how to come up with and solve equations when watching the next golf swing or snooker shot? Or how mathematical reasoning could make you a savvier shopper, one unit price comparison at a time? From decoding league tables to enhancing decision-making, this episode isn't just about numbers—it's a celebration of how they shape our understanding of the world. Join me as I aim to piece together some of the mathematical puzzles that not only intrigue but also empower us in our daily lives.

Send me your comments and questions

Thanks for listening. You can find me on my website stephensevolution.com, or on twitter here. You can sign up to receive news of new episodes when they're released here.


Artwork produced by Elena Designe
Music composed by Nela Ruiz

As I, Stephen McHugh, navigate the complexities of social interactions and educational hurdles, I invite you into a world where the spectrum is not a limit but a diverse canvas of experiences. Living with autism has its share of battles, from the sting of bullying to the quest for clear communication. Yet, it's a journey filled with victories and insights that I'm eager to share with you. Here I aim to unravel the fabric of what it truly means to understand and embrace autism, not just as a concept, but as a vital aspect of our collective human experience.

Step into the shoes of those on the autism spectrum as I mention the job market, a domain ripe with untapped potential. Discover how role-playing can unlock confidence in interviews and how employers can harness the meticulous nature of autistic employees. This episode is a call to celebrate not just the challenges, but also the unique strengths and innovations that individuals with autism can bring to our communities. Join me in aiming to transform awareness into acceptance, and let's champion the creativity, passion, and resilience that define the autism community.

Send me your comments and questions

Thanks for listening. You can find me on my website stephensevolution.com, or on twitter here. You can sign up to receive news of new episodes when they're released here.


Artwork produced by Elena Designe
Music composed by Nela Ruiz

Embarking on a quest for perfection once felt like the only route to success, but I've discovered it's the quirky detours and unexpected milestones that truly enrich our lives. Join me, Stephen McHugh, as I lay bare the defining moments on my spectrum journey, where personal victories often come quietly, wrapped in resilience and self-discovery. In the heart of this episode, I reflect on overcoming language development hurdles, the thrill of obtaining a driving license, and the warmth of kitchen adventures, illustrating that success is as unique as the individual pursuing it.

This time, I'm not just sharing my story—I'm inviting you to find solace and inspiration in the incremental progress that shapes us. Whether it's through the creative expression of a melody or the technical precision required in IT, my experiences shed light on the variety of ways we can connect with the world around us. As we press pause for a brief Easter interlude, I encourage you to soak in the life lessons embedded in our discussions, from the power of authenticity to the beauty found in our imperfections. Let's celebrate the steps we take towards personal definitions of success, together.

Send me your comments and questions

Thanks for listening. You can find me on my website stephensevolution.com, or on twitter here. You can sign up to receive news of new episodes when they're released here.


Artwork produced by Elena Designe
Music composed by Nela Ruiz

Embark on a voyage of intellect and wonder with me, Stephen McHugh, as I steer you through the captivating realms of flight mechanics and celestial marvels. My fascination with the Aerobie ring's aerodynamics interweaves with my autism to fuel an unquenchable curiosity, leading us from the physics of soaring to the awe-inspiring sights of the Andromeda galaxy. This episode is a testament to the power of a curious mind, where my personal musings on Jupiter's volcanic moon, Io, exemplify the rich insights that come from a relentless pursuit of knowledge. 

As our expedition reaches its heartfelt finale, I extend a sincere token of gratitude for the companionship and unwavering support of each listener. The journey of discovery is one of collective joy and personal triumph, a sentiment I hope has resonated with you, regardless of where you fall on the spectrum. Continue to nurture your inquisitive spirit and join me in the ongoing adventure that is learning. Stay connected, subscribe for more stellar content, and remember—every question answered is a step closer to enlightenment.

Send me your comments and questions

Thanks for listening. You can find me on my website stephensevolution.com, or on twitter here. You can sign up to receive news of new episodes when they're released here.


Artwork produced by Elena Designe
Music composed by Nela Ruiz