Language matters when discussing autism, and it is important to use inclusive and empowering language that recognizes the abilities and strengths of autistic individuals. In this episode, Simon and Jordan are joined by Dr. Luke Beardon, Author and Senior Lecturer in Autism at The Autism Centre, Sheffield Hallam University. Dr Luke talks about the majority of students in his courses studying autism being autistic, the negative narratives and misinformation surrounding autism, the us vs them narrative, gaslighting and professional misinformation, the identity crisis faced by late-diagnosed individuals, and the criticism of high-functioning individuals on the autism spectrum.

Takeaways:

• Autism research should start from understanding the positive aspects, rather than focusing solely on the negative stereotypes and challenges.
• Autistic individuals experience the world differently, particularly in terms of sensory sensitivities, and it is crucial to understand and accommodate these differences.
• The environment plays a significant role in the experiences and outcomes of autistic individuals, and efforts should be made to create inclusive and supportive environments.
• Understanding and respecting the diverse experiences and perspectives of autistic individuals is essential for accurate representation and effective advocacy. Mental health is an important aspect of overall well-being and should be understood and prioritized.
• Language matters when discussing autism, and it is important to use inclusive and empowering language that recognizes the abilities and strengths of autistic individuals.
• A harmonious coexistence between neurodivergent and neurotypical individuals is essential for a more inclusive society.

00:00 Introduction

04:27 Popularity of the Course

07:19 Negative Narrative and Pejorative Language

09:38 Harmonious Coexistence of Neurodivergent and Neurotypical

13:25 Validation and Defense of the Autistic Community

15:22 Microaggressions and Gaslighting

20:08 Invalidation and Identity Crisis

22:04 Importance of Advocacy and Listening

23:50 Misconceptions about Eye Contact

25:13 Language Matters and Individuality

31:49 Critics and Individual Experiences

36:01 Blaming Autism for Everything

37:01 Invalidating Difficulties

38:28 Autism + Environment = Outcome

42:47 Trust and Communication

51:20 The Power of Language

56:06 Exploring Energy and Environment

Dr Luke Beardon,Senior Lecturer in Autism, The Autism Centre, Sheffield Hallam University:

PgCert Autism Part-time 2024 - Sheffield Hallam University: https://www.shu.ac.uk/courses/teaching-and-education/pgcert-autism/part-time

Website: https://www.shu.ac.uk/about-us/our-people/staff-profiles/luke-beardon

Books: https://www.amazon.co.uk/stores/Dr-Luke-Beardon/author/B072HC7SHS

Whether you're Neurodivergent yourself, a friend, family member, or simply curious about this extraordinary way of experiencing the world, this podcast is your guide to unravelling The Neurodivergent Experience.

Instagram: @theneurodivergentexperiencepod

Facebook: theneurodivergentexperience

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Meltdowns can be overwhelming and uncontrollable experiences, often triggered by sensory overload or unexpected events. In this episode of The Neurodivergent Experience, Jordan James and Simon Scott share what meltdowns feel like from a neurodivergent perspective. They cover the causes and effects of meltdowns, the importance of self-care and coping mechanisms - such as stimming and finding ways to recharge - the challenges of social anxiety and the power of communication.

In this episode you can expect to learn about:

• Meltdowns can have a significant impact on mental and physical well-being, and recognizing the signs can help prevent or manage them.
• Factors such as fatigue, hunger, and emotional issues can contribute to the intensity of meltdowns.
• Self-care and finding supportive environments can help regulate emotions and prevent meltdowns.
• Creating breathing room and recovery after a meltdown is essential for self-care and maintaining mental health.
• Prioritize understanding and supporting neurodivergent individuals rather than trying to 'fix' them.
• Stimming is an essential coping mechanism for neurodivergent individuals to navigate a challenging world.
• The impact of past trauma can affect present reactions and behaviours.

00:00 Intro

01:28 Explaining Meltdowns and Emotional Regulation

08:08 Types of Meltdowns and Coping Mechanisms

12:14 Managing Meltdowns and Recharging

25:15 Stimming and Early Intervention

30:05 Childhood Meltdowns

37:21 The Aftermath of Meltdowns

43:05 Driving and Anxiety

44:17 The Impact of Words and Trauma

52:29 The Power of Self-Acceptance and Healing

Whether you're Neurodivergent yourself, a friend, family member, or simply curious about this extraordinary way of experiencing the world, this podcast is your guide to unravelling The Neurodivergent Experience.

Instagram: @theneurodivergentexperiencepod

Facebook: theneurodivergentexperience

Get bonus content on Patreon

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Find joy and fulfillment in being true to oneself and challenge societal expectations and stereotypes. In this episode, Jordan and Simon discuss the joy and importance of embracing childlike behavior as adults. They encourage listeners to embrace their childlike interests and hobbies, share experiences around the struggles of navigating authority and social hierarchy, the importance of autonomy and individuality for neurodivergent people and why we should respect others who may have unique perspectives and abilities that differ to our own.

In this episode you can expect to learn about:

• The concept of retaining infant synaptic pathways and the advantages of a 'baby brain' in terms of hyperlearning and creativity
• Treat others with respect, especially neurodivergent individuals who may have unique perspectives and abilities.
• Adopt a supportive managerial style that focuses on helping team members grow and giving them autonomy.
• Avoid being judgmental or condescending when someone makes a mistake; instead, offer guidance and support.
• Question social norms and be aware of the impact of your words and actions on others.

00:00 Intro

02:02 Embracing Childlike Behavior as an Adult

07:30 Understanding Neurodivergent Brain Development

10:20 Hyper Learning and Eye Contact

16:30 The Joy of Going to Disneyland and Embracing Inner Child

20:18 The Impact of Masking and Not Being True to Oneself

24:38 The Burden of Societal Expectations and Toxic Masculinity

26:31 The Importance of Being Treated with Respect

27:35 Struggling with Authority and Social Hierarchy

34:40 Different Managerial Styles

44:04 The Judge's Fist Bump and Acceptance of Differences

Whether you're Neurodivergent yourself, a friend, family member, or simply curious about this extraordinary way of experiencing the world, this podcast is your guide to unravelling The Neurodivergent Experience.

Instagram: @theneurodivergentexperiencepod

Facebook: theneurodivergentexperience

Get bonus content on Patreon

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Misconceptions about being Neurodivergent can be insulting and dismissive of the profound impact it has on individuals.

In this episode, Jordan and Simon discuss various myths and misconceptions surrounding neurodivergent individuals, covering the difference between being neurodivergent and neurodiverse, why we are not all a little bit autistic, the misconception that neurodivergent people lack empathy and the idea that neurodivergence can be outgrown.

In this episode you can expect to learn about:

• Neurodivergent and neurodiversity are not the same. Neurodiversity refers to the diversity of thinking in all humans, while neurodivergent specifically refers to those who diverge from the neurotypical.
• Not all autistic individuals struggle with eye contact. Some may give fleeting eye contact or look at other parts of the face.
• Having friends does not disqualify someone from being autistic. Neurodivergent individuals, like everyone else, desire and benefit from social connections.
• It is incorrect to say that everyone is a little bit autistic or ADHD. Neurodivergence is a distinct neurotype that is different from neurotypical.
• Autism is not caused by diet or obesity. It is a neurodevelopmental condition with genetic and hereditary factors.
• ADHD is not solely characterized by external hyperactivity. It can also manifest as inattentiveness and distractibility.
• ADHD individuals often have an overactive brain, constantly processing thoughts and stimuli, which can lead to sensory overload and mental exhaustion. Misconceptions about neurodivergent conditions can be harmful and perpetuate stigma.
• Individuals with dyslexia face challenges with phonological dyslexia and the complexity of the English language.
• Neurodivergent individuals have an abundance of empathy and are not lacking in this area.
• OCD is a serious mental health condition that is not related to perfectionism.

00:00 Introduction

01:54 Neurodivergent vs. Neurodiversity

05:15 Autistic People and Eye Contact

09:41 Neurodivergent People Can Have Friends

12:23 Misinformation and Causes of Neurodivergence

22:23 ADHD and Misconceptions

28:35 Dyslexia and Misconceptions

39:00 Growing Out of ADHD

45:12 Misconceptions about Empathy

53:00 Myths and Facts about OCD

Whether you're Neurodivergent yourself, a friend, family member, or simply curious about this extraordinary way of experiencing the world, this podcast is your guide to unravelling The Neurodivergent Experience.

Instagram: @theneurodivergentexperiencepod

Facebook: theneurodivergentexperience

Get bonus content on Patreon

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Special interests can range from hyperfixations to lifelong passions and can have a significant impact on the lives of neurodivergent individuals. In this episode, Jordan and Simon discuss the unique and powerful role that special interests play in the lives of neurodivergent individuals. They share personal experiences of hyperfixations that have turned into careers or hobbies, the importance of encouragement, finding like-minded individuals who share the same interests and discuss the potential challenges and negative impacts that hyperfixations can have on relationships.

In this episode you can expect to learn about:

• Special interests can provide a sense of purpose, fulfillment, and identity for neurodivergent individuals.
• Encouragement and support from others can help individuals develop and excel in their special interests.
• Finding like-minded individuals who share the same interests can lead to meaningful connections and friendships.
• Special interests play a significant role in the lives of neurodivergent individuals, providing both positive and negative experiences.
• Hyperfixations can sometimes lead to neglecting other aspects of life, such as relationships and responsibilities.

Whether you're Neurodivergent yourself, a friend, family member, or simply curious about this extraordinary way of experiencing the world, this podcast is your guide to unravelling The Neurodivergent Experience.

Instagram: @theneurodivergentexperiencepod

Facebook: theneurodivergentexperience

Get bonus content on Patreon

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Neurodivergent individuals often desire friendships but may struggle with the complexities and challenges that come with them. In this episode, Jordan James and Simon Scott discuss the complexities of neurodivergent people and friendships by sharing their personal experiences with friendships, struggles with bullying, and the challenges of masking to fit in. They talk about the importance of feeling safe and accepted in friendships, the value of authentic and genuine friendships where neurodivergent individuals can be their true selves and ask what impact does childhood trauma have on our friendships at all ages in life?

In this episode you can expect to learn about:

• Bullying and trauma can have a significant impact on neurodivergent individuals' ability to trust and form meaningful friendships.
• Authenticity and acceptance are key in building genuine friendships, where neurodivergent individuals can be their true selves.
• Feeling safe and loved within friendships is crucial for neurodivergent individuals, as it provides a sense of security and support.
• It is important to surround oneself with people who make them feel good and to not settle for relationships that do not bring happiness.

Whether you're Neurodivergent yourself, a friend, family member, or simply curious about this extraordinary way of experiencing the world, this podcast is your guide to unravelling The Neurodivergent Experience.

Instagram: @theneurodivergentexperiencepod

Facebook: theneurodivergentexperience

Get bonus content on Patreon

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So you think you know what makes you or someone else Autistic? Join Jordan James and Simon Scott for a captivating and candid conversation as they delve into various aspects of The Neurodivergent Experience to answer what makes them Autistic?

In this episode you can expect to learn about:

• Hyperfocus
• Sensory sensitivities
• Stimming
• The challenges of social interactions
• The importance of individuality
• The need for understanding and acceptance of neurodivergent individuals and the unique experiences they bring

Whether you're Neurodivergent yourself, a friend, family member, or simply curious about this extraordinary way of experiencing the world, this podcast is your guide to unravelling The Neurodivergent Experience.

Get bonus content on Patreon

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Welcome to The Neurodivergent Experience!

This podcast is a platform to explore the diverse experiences of individuals in the spectrum, challenge misconceptions and celebrate the strength and resilience of neurodivergent individuals. This episode is a brief hello to co-hosts Jordan James - the Autistic photographer, author and advocate - and recently diagnosed Autism/ADHD broadcaster, Simon Scott.

In this introduction Jordan shares his personal journey of using photography to improve his mental health and how he began to embrace his neurodivergent identity, the importance of friendship and support in the autistic community. Simon discusses his early experiences with his Autism and ADHD diagnosis, his love-hate relationship with the diagnosis and why he is making a podcast that would have been a guide to help him better understand the Neurodivergent Experience.

Follow us on Socials!

Instagram: @theneurodivergentexperiencepod

Facebook: theneurodivergentexperience

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The Neurodivergent Experience is the weekly podcast dedicated to exploring the vast world of Autism, ADHD and more! Hosted by The Autistic Photographer, Jordan James, and Simon Scott.

Being Neurodivergent is often shrouded in misconceptions, stereotypes, and limited knowledge. While our experiences may overlap, no two stories are the same. Through this podcast, we aim to challenge those misconceptions and dive deep into the diverse experiences of those in the spectrum by sharing our personal stories, and exploring topics like early interventions, sensory processing, education, employment, and much more. Each episode will feature insightful conversations about living in the spectrum, with guest experts, advocates, and allies who are passionate about creating an inclusive and accepting world.

Whether you're Neurodivergent yourself, a friend, family member, or simply curious about this extraordinary way of experiencing the world, this podcast is your guide to unravelling The Neurodivergent Experience.

Get bonus content on Patreon

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.