In episode 82, Chris and Emma talk with Mattia Maurée about the intersection of ADHD, autism, and PDA—the Pervasive Drive for Autonomy. Mattia is an AuDHD coach and host of the ADHD Flourishing podcast. We discuss what it actually means to flourish rather than just cope or survive, why the pathology paradigm failed so many of us, and how positive disintegration offers a different lens for understanding intense neurodivergent experiences.

Mattia shares their journey from misdiagnosis to self-understanding, the physical reality of nervous system shutdown, and why “do less” might be the most radical advice for neurodivergent people. We also get into the work question—why so many of us can’t stay in traditional jobs, the integrity trigger, and what it means to build a life around your actual needs rather than neurotypical expectations.

Links from this episode

AuDHD Flourishing Podcast

AuDHD Flourishing Episode 88 with Chris Wells

Do Less

Also mentioned:

* PDA: Resistance and Resilience Episode 7, Creative Resistance, with Marni Kammersell, Chris Wells, and guest Mattia Maurée

* Caitlin Hughes from the Divergent Dialogues Podcast

* Connect with us

* Positive Disintegration on Substack

* Visit the Dabrowski Center website

* Facebook

* Instagram

* The Positive Disintegration YouTube Channel

* Adults with Overexcitabilities group on Facebook

* The Tragic Gift blog by Emma

* Email us at positivedisintegration.pod@gmail.com

* Please consider donating to the Dabrowski Center, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit.

* Find Positive Disintegration Merch

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Ghostweight by Yoon Ha Lee (audio)