Autisticly Aar’s NeuroCast

Overcoming Challenges: Lydia's Journey with ADHD, Masking, and SobrietyJoin us as Lydia, also known as @theconfidentwoman on TikTok, revisits her journey with ADHD and sobriety. Diagnosed with ADHD in May 2021, Lydia reflects on her identity crisis following a misdiagnosis of bipolar disorder and shares insights into her path towards self-acceptance. She discusses the stigmas surrounding substance abuse, her battles with addiction, and the role of support meetings in her recovery. Lydia also delves into understanding her autistic traits, the challenges of masking, and the importance of routine. Discover her transformations and personal growth over the past year and be inspired by her resilience and determination to live authentically. Trigger Warnings: This episode discusses substance abuse, addiction, mental health diagnoses, and psychiatric misdiagnosis, which may be distressing for some viewers.00:00 Introduction and Guest Reintroduction01:00 ADHD Diagnosis and Misdiagnosis02:17 Identity Crisis and Acceptance05:37 Self-Medication and Substance Abuse06:52 Burnout and Career Changes09:57 Addiction and Recovery Journey17:29 Support Systems and Meetings27:57 Decriminalization and Legalization Debate48:34 Navigating Sobriety and Medication49:10 Exploring Sensory Preferences and Stimming52:50 Understanding Masking and Identity01:00:22 The Challenges of Routine and Change01:08:31 The Neurodivergent Spectrum01:20:42 Confidence Coaching and Personal Development01:28:56 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

Jane Edwards: Embracing Autism and ComedyIn this episode, comedian, writer, and actor Jane Edwards from Wales shares her journey of being diagnosed with autism during the pandemic. Jane recounts her childhood experiences, the challenges she faced, and the relief and revelation upon her diagnosis. She also delves into her comedic career, discussing early influences, the difficulties of breaking into the industry, and her love for British comedy and character work. Jane highlights the importance of the online space for her career, especially during the lockdown, and talks about her aspirations in acting and future projects. Additionally, she reflects on the growing neurodivergent community in the arts and its impact.Sources :www.neurorainbowproject.com/neuro_casthttps://docs.google.com/forms/d/1Cyz7rEXL5mAOcskXcumDEB7QovZ2jnom2hzTgnHeMx8/viewform?edit_requested=true/ Give some feedback @NeuroRainbowProject  Threads, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and Youtubeemail: neurorainbow@neurorainbowproject.comMore from Jain Edwards: https://www.jainedwards.comTimeline:00:00 Introduction to Jane Edwards00:36 Discovering Autism02:28 The Diagnosis Journey05:00 Family Reflections12:10 Challenges in Comedy18:30 Navigating the Comedy Scene20:37 Impact of the Internet29:37 Comedy Inspirations and Style36:55 Autistic Representation in Comedy52:29 Future Aspirations55:38 Where to Find Jane Edwards

Neuro Rainbow Cast: Understanding Dyspraxia, Dyslexia, and Autism with Charis GambonIn this episode of the Neuro Rainbow Cast, host [Host Name] interviews Charis Gambon about her experiences with dyspraxia, dyslexia, and autism. Charis shares her journey from late diagnosis to advocacy, discussing her involvement in sports like fencing and historical reenactment, as well as her efforts to support the neurodivergent community. They explore the challenges she faced in academic settings, her contributions through writing articles, and the importance of tailored support for neurodivergent individuals. Charis also touches on the closure of the Dyspraxia Foundation and her work with new initiatives to ensure continuous support for the dyspraxic community.visit website: https://neurorainbowproject.com/neurocastfollow on social media channels: @neurorainbowprojectfind Charis's articles: https://linktr.ee/CharisGambonfollow Charis on instagram:https://www.instagram.com/that_historygirl/Give me some feedback at: communityfeedback.neurorainbowproject.com Content Timings00:00 Charis Gambon00:53 Introduction to Charis01:24 Early Life and Diagnosis Journey04:44 University Challenges and Support05:20 Advocacy and Community Involvement08:49 Navigating University with Dyspraxia12:14 Post-Diagnosis Support and Challenges23:32 Self-Diagnosis and Autism28:24 Writing and Advocacy Work32:05 Freelance Writing Journey32:49 Challenges and Tips for Dyslexic Writers38:03 Overcoming Dyslexia in Education43:33 Fencing and Dyspraxia56:46 Historical Reenactment and Writing59:45 Encouragement and Final Thoughts

Exploring Parenting of a autistic son and comedy with Josephine LaceyIn this episode of Neuro Rainbow Cast, host Aar Williams interviews stand-up comedian Josephine Lacey, who is currently performing at the Edinburgh Fringe. They discuss Josephine's journey into comedy, which began as a hobby in 2009, and how her experiences as an autistic mother have shaped her comedic voice. Josephine shares insights about her career, the challenges of raising an autistic child, and the importance of storytelling in her performances. They also touch upon the broader issues of autism awareness and support. Josephine highlights the supportive communities and parent groups that have helped her navigate the complexities of parenting a neurodivergent child. The episode concludes with Josephine talking about her future plans, including a show at Soho Theatre and the possibility of touring. Follow Josephine as @funnyautismmama on social media for updates.00:00 Introduction to Neuro Rainbow Cast00:35 Meet Josephine Lacey: Stand-Up Comedian01:00 Josephine's Journey into Comedy02:04 Balancing Comedy and Parenting04:57 Challenges and Triumphs of Parenting an Autistic Child12:10 Educational and Informative Comedy31:17 Josephine's Edinburgh Fringe Experience34:39 Dyslexia and Comedy39:31 Future Plans and Final Thoughts

Neuro Rainbow Cast with Alice Hewson: ADHD, Dyspraxia, and Neurodiversity in the WorkplaceIn this episode of the Neuro Rainbow Cast, Autisticly Aar interviews Alice Hewson, a writer from the northeast with dyspraxia and ADHD, about her neurodivergent journey and her new book, 'Neurodiversity in the Workplace.' Alice shares her experiences growing up with neurodivergent conditions under a system that often lacked adequate support. She discusses her late ADHD diagnosis during adulthood, coping mechanisms, and the importance of systemic inclusion for neurodivergent individuals in educational and workplace environments. Alice's book sheds light on creating psychologically safe workplaces and promotes changing cultural practices to better support neurodivergent employees. They also touch on current issues like the ADHD medication shortage and Alice's advocacy for universal design and effective communication in the workplace.The running order of the conversation00:00 Introduction and Podcast Promotion00:22 Meet Alice Hewson: Author and Advocate01:11 Alice's Neurodivergent Journey02:50 University Challenges and Early Career07:01 Discovering ADHD and Its Impact15:03 The Importance of Systemic Inclusion26:40 Inspiration Behind the Book32:16 Research and Writing Process35:26 Embracing Mistakes and Learning36:10 Supportive Work Environments36:56 Psychological Safety at Work41:51 Mental Health First Aid Training44:19 Advocating for Change47:42 Political Perspectives on Disability54:42 Challenges in Disability Advocacy01:01:01 Universal Accessibility and Individual Needs01:04:15 ADHD Medication Shortages01:06:48 Final Thoughts and Book Promotion

Exploring Neurodivergence and Self-Discovery with Author Sarah BoonIn this episode of Neuro Rainbow Cast, host Autisticly Aar is joined by Sarah Boon for a second enlightening discussion. Sarah, an author on autism and ADHD, shares her journey of late diagnoses and the personal growth that followed. Initially diagnosed as dyslexic, she later discovered she was also autistic and had ADHD. Sarah emphasizes the importance of understanding and accepting neurodivergence. She talks about her book 'Young Autistic and ADHD,' which aims to guide and support young people navigating their diagnoses. The conversation covers topics such as self-diagnosis, mental health, social interactions, and the challenges of adulthood for neurodivergent individuals. Sarah also shares practical tips for managing daily life and stresses the significance of self-acceptance. Their discussion is a valuable resource for those seeking insight into the lived experiences of autistic and ADHD individuals.00:00 Welcome Back, Sarah Boon!00:28 Sarah's Journey with Autism and ADHD02:55 The Importance of Self-Diagnosis04:12 Personal Growth and Self-Acceptance06:08 Practical Tips for Neurodivergent Life07:19 Understanding Stimming and Social Challenges08:47 Discovering Autism and ADHD13:13 Writing the Book: Young Autistic and ADHD27:54 Reflecting on Teenage Years and Early Adulthood31:06 Realizing Neurodivergence31:58 Writing the Book: Key Themes and Chapters33:34 Exploring Executive Functioning34:42 Navigating Young Adulthood35:07 Relationships and Social Interactions35:25 Emotional Well-being and Mental Health37:10 Identity and Acceptance42:21 Challenges in Academia and Research48:10 The Role of Technology in Overcoming Challenges51:41 Becoming a Published Author53:36 Feedback and Future Plans56:53 Historical Misdiagnoses and Family Ancestry58:35 Promoting the Book and Final ThoughtsWhere you can buy Sarah's book: https://tr.ee/Iq6REy-s_V How to order direct from publisher: https://uk.jkp.com/products/young-autistic-and-adhdSarah's Blog: https://autisticallysarah.com/Sarah's Social media: @saraheboon on all platforms. Follow on social media: @neurorainbowproject Email: neurorainbow@neurorainbowproject.comFind out more: https://neurorainbowproject.com/Support the podcast" https://ko-fi.com/neurorainbowproject

Empowering Youth Voices: An Interview with Troy Njenje-MbangaIn this episode, the host, Autisticly Aar, interviews Troy Njenje-Mbanga, a 21-year-old ambassador and youth activist from West Oxford Wakefield. Troy shares his journey of advocating for inclusion and the rights of young people with SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities). He discusses his personal experiences with autism, the support he received, and the importance of youth participation in activism. Troy highlights his involvement with organizations like iWill and Reach Out To All, focusing on social issues such as education, climate change, and mental health. The conversation also touches on the challenges faced by neurodivergent individuals in accessing support services and the need for improved mental health resources.00:00 Introduction and Welcome00:46 Meet Troy: Advocate and Activist01:24 Troy's Personal Journey with Autism02:53 Challenges and Coping Strategies08:26 Involvement in Advocacy Groups11:49 Campaigns and Key Issues13:01 Improving Education and Inclusion22:39 Mental Health Support for Young People32:54 Political Engagement and Voting39:17 Final Thoughts and Contact Information

Episode description:Paula Peters: A Lifelong Activist for Disability RightsIn this heartfelt and compelling interview, Paula Peters recounts her journey as a disability rights activist starting from the age of eight. Paula discusses her personal struggles with hypermobility syndrome and the fight to keep hydrotherapy services available in Southeast London. She delves into her experiences within the mental health system, challenges with employment, and the impact of political decisions on disabled individuals. Peters highlights her involvement with Disabled People Against Cuts (DPAC), emphasizing their campaigning efforts, the importance of collective activism, and their fight against austerity and privatization of the NHS. The discussion also explores her views on the current political climate and the necessity of continued activism to secure the rights and dignity of disabled people. Trigger warnings include mentions of mental health struggles, psychiatric abuse, and the impacts of austerity measures.Find out more about DPAC: https://dpac.uk.net/about/Timings of episode running order:00:00 Introduction to Paula Peters00:15 Early Activism and Hydrotherapy Campaign01:42 Mental Health Struggles and Advocacy04:22 Joining DPAC and Fighting Austerity14:53 Challenges in the Workplace17:52 Issues in Mental Health System22:24 Impact of Political Decisions on Mental Health27:43 The Need for Systemic Change31:28 Concerns Over Lifelong Disabilities and Government Reforms35:06 The Impact of Political Parties on Disability Rights38:51 Upcoming Day of Action and Campaign Demands42:57 Challenges in Voting and Political Representation53:01 Future Hopes and Continued Campaigning

Autistic people are faced with the stereotype of lacking empathy but this may not be the case. But what you may not think is emotional processing is a sixth sense. Back in 2020 Autisticly Aar in wrote this article on sensory processing of emotions and empathy with additions in 2022 on alexythimiafollow @neurorainbowproject / @pacifyingmyautismread more on-line: https://neurorainbowproject.com/rainbowreadsfind more about the podcast: https://neurorainbowproject.com/neurocastdonate to support the podcast: https://ko-fi.com/neurorainbowproject