The Neurodivergent Experience

"My relationship with food is incredibly complex. I hate food that is unpredictable." In this episode of the Neurodivergent Experience, Jordan James and Simon Scott discuss their complex relationships with food. They share their experiences with 'fussy' eating, body dysmorphia, and trauma-related food aversions. They also talk about the impact of neurodivergent traits on their eating habits, such...

Traveling as a neurodivergent person can present unique challenges, such as dealing with sensory issues and knowing your rights for special assistant and accommodations. In this episode of the Neurodivergent Experience, Jordan and Simon discuss their recent travel experiences as neurodivergent individuals. They share their personal stories of navigating airports, dealing with special assistance, a...

"Growing up in an undiagnosed family made me feel different from others and lead to a sense of being strange or weird!" This episode of the Neurodivergent Experience discusses growing up in an undiagnosed family. Sophie James, Jordan's daughter, joins to share her experience about feeling different from other families, the challenges of navigating the school playground, the lack of support from th...

Society's perspective on autism has shifted, but there is still work to be done to combat misinformation and stigma. In this episode, Jordan James and Simon Scott interview Steve Silberman, the author of NeuroTribes. They discuss the impact of Silberman's book on the neurodivergent community and the importance of embracing neurodiversity. They delve into the history of autism and the misconception...

Navigating romantic relationships can be challenging for neurodivergent individuals. In this episode of the Neurodivergent Experience, Jordan James and Simon Scott discuss their experiences with romantic relationships. They share stories from their teenage years including the challenges of navigating dating and intimacy, the impact of past traumas and the importance of being true to oneself in a r...

Art and creative expression can be a powerful way for neurodivergent individuals to communicate and share their unique experiences. In this conversation, Jordan James and Simon Scott talk to Bret Malley, a recently diagnosed neurodivergent individual, and father of an autistic son. They discuss Brett's journey of self-discovery, his experiences as a filmmaker and artist, talk about his upcoming do...

Neurodivergent characters are becoming more prevalent in TV and film, although many are still coded rather than explicitly identified as neurodivergent. In this episode of the Neurodivergent Experience, Jordan James and Simon Scott discuss autistic representation in TV and film. They explore characters like Sherlock Holmes and Gregory House, who exhibit neurodivergent traits, and delve into the X-...

Collaboration and understanding between different species, including humans and animals, can lead to a more harmonious world. In this episode of the Neurodivergent Experience, Jordan James and Simon Scott talk to Summer Farrelly, an Autistic inclusion advocate and animal behaviorist. They discuss Summer's journey to becoming a zoologist, their special interest in chickens, and their assisted anima...

Masking is a survival technique used by neurodivergent individuals to fit in and avoid harassment or bullying. It takes a toll on mental health, leading to anxiety, low self-esteem, and a constant fear of slipping up. In this episode, Jordan James and Simon Scott discuss the concept of masking and unmasking in neurodivergent people. They explore the reasons why individuals mask their true selves,...

Early development is a critical time for neurodivergent individuals, and interventions like ABA therapy at a young age can interfere with natural brain development. Warning - this episode contains themes that some individuals may find distressing. In this episode, Jordan James and Simon Scott are joined by Maisie Soetantyo, an openly autistic ADHDer and founder of Autism Career Pathways. They disc...

Employers should recognize the value of neurodivergent minds and provide opportunities for them to showcase their unique skills and abilities. With the right support, they can thrive! This episode of the Neurodivergent Experience focuses on being neurodivergent in the workplace as Jordan and Simon share their personal experiences of navigating the working world as Neurodivergent people. From deali...

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...

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 t...

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 an...

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 em...

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...

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 feeli...

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 individualit...

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....

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 misconcept...