The Hidden 20%

Dr. Samantha Friedman, a Lecturer in Applied Psychology at the University of Edinburgh, shares groundbreaking insights on autism and the natural world. She discusses how natural environments serve as calming spaces for autistic individuals, fostering connection and curiosity. The conversation touches on the emotional bonds that many autistic people have with nature, challenging stereotypes. Dr. Friedman also highlights the therapeutic roles of nature in parenting, education, and daily life, emphasizing personalized experiences that enhance well-being and celebrate individual strengths.

In this engaging discussion, Carrie Grant, a BAFTA Award-winning broadcaster and vocal coach, shares her journey after being diagnosed with autism in 2023. She dives deep into the societal perceptions of 'normality' and explores the balance between social energy and solitude. Carrie highlights the struggles of navigating identity and the need for advocacy in a neurodivergent world. Additionally, she emphasizes the importance of creating inclusive environments for her four neurodivergent children, showcasing the power of understanding and acceptance.

Vanessa D'Souza, a MasterChef UK semi-finalist and ambassador for the National Autistic Society, opens up about her late diagnosis of autism, ADHD, and sensory processing disorder. She shares how cooking became her sanctuary and discusses practical strategies for making culinary spaces more neurodivergent-friendly. Vanessa also dives into her experience on MasterChef, revealing the hidden challenges of televised cooking and her encounters with Gregg Wallace. Her journey emphasizes the importance of authenticity and understanding in both the kitchen and society.

Francesca Happé, a leading autism researcher with over 30 years of experience at King's College London, shares groundbreaking insights into autism. She discusses the hidden talents of autistic individuals, from perfect pitch to exceptional memory. Francesca addresses the ripple effects of late diagnosis on burnout and emphasizes the importance of emotional care over mere cognitive understanding. The conversation also touches on the urgent need for more research on sensory processing and the unique experiences of underrepresented groups in the autistic community.

Francesca Happé, a renowned Professor at King's College London, dives into the unique challenges faced by autistic women, particularly the alarming rates of missed diagnoses. She reveals how societal biases overshadow symptoms, impacting identity and mental health. The discussion also uncovers the struggles of elderly autistic individuals and the intersection of aging with autism, highlighting the urgent need for inclusive research. With insights into late diagnoses and the complexities of female autism, Francesca paves the way for a deeper understanding of this often-overlooked group.

CW: Addiction & BullyingBestselling author and broadcaster Matt Cain opens up about discovering autism and ADHD at 50 after decades of feeling "othered" as a gay man.In this chat with Ben, Matt unpacks how his autism and ADHD were long blurred with queer expression, explains how ADHD fuels his creative work but also complicates his relationship with alcohol, and emphasises why "coming out" as proudly neurodivergent- just as he has as a gay man- is so vital._________________On "The Hidden 20%," host Ben Branson chats with neurodivergent [ADHD, Autism, Dyscalculia, Dyslexia, Dyspraxia, Tourette's etc.] creatives, entrepreneurs, and experts to see how great minds.. think differently.Host: Ben BransonHead of Production: Bella NealeAssistant Producer: Phoebe De LeiburnéVideo Editor: James ScrivenSocial Media Manager: Charlie YoungMusic: Jackson GreenbergBrought to you by charity The Hidden 20% #1203348__________________Follow & subscribe…Website: www.hidden20.orgInstagram / TikTok / Youtube / X: @Hidden20charityBen Branson @seedlip_benMatt Cain @mattcainwriterIf you'd like to support The Hidden 20%, you can buy a "green dot" badge at https://www.hidden20.org/thegreendot/p/badge. All proceeds go to the charity. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

At just 12 years old, Nelson Taylor is turning heads in UK junior racing - fast, instinctive, and fearless on the track. But his path to the podium has been anything but straightforward.Diagnosed as Autistic, Nelson once found it difficult to leave the house, held back by anxiety, sensory overload, and social struggles. Today, he’s thriving in the high-pressure world of motorsport and chasing a future in Formula 1.In this chat with Ben, Nelson and his parents, Sophie and Shane, share the story of his remarkable transformation - from shutdowns to starting grids - and reflect on the power of autistic focus, family support, and what it took to move through the darkest days._________________On "The Hidden 20%," host Ben Branson chats with neurodivergent [ADHD, Autism, Dyscalculia, Dyslexia, Dyspraxia, Tourette's etc.] creatives, entrepreneurs, and experts to see how great minds.. think differently.Host: Ben BransonHead of Production: Bella NealeAssistant Producer: Phoebe De LeiburnéVideo Editor: James ScrivenSocial Media Manager: Charlie YoungMusic: Jackson GreenbergBrought to you by charity The Hidden 20% #1203348__________________Follow & subscribe…Website: www.hidden20.orgInstagram / TikTok / Youtube / X: @Hidden20charityBen Branson @seedlip_benNelson Taylor @nelson_taylor_racing91If you'd like to support The Hidden 20%, you can buy a "green dot" badge at https://www.hidden20.org/thegreendot/p/badge. All proceeds go to the charity. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

CW: Mental Health & SuicideDisclaimer: This episode is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional about any medical concerns or treatment decisions.For many, menopause is the moment ADHD becomes impossible to ignore - and too often, it’s still misunderstood.Today’s guest is the remarkable Dr Louise Newson - GP turned pioneering menopause specialist and founder of the internationally renowned Balance app and Newson Health Menopause & Wellbeing Centre.A trailblazer in women’s health, Louise has transformed how we understand hormones, with her work reaching millions. As a neurodivergent woman and mother to ND daughters, she offers a rare and powerful blend of clinical authority and personal insight.In this chat with Ben, they explore how hormonal changes can unmask ADHD traits, why women are so frequently misdiagnosed, and why the current approach to menopause has become, in Dr Newson’s words, “the biggest car crash in women’s health.”_________________On "The Hidden 20%," host Ben Branson chats with neurodivergent [ADHD, Autism, Dyscalculia, Dyslexia, Dyspraxia, Tourette's etc.] creatives, entrepreneurs, and experts to see how great minds.. think differently.Host: Ben BransonHead of Production: Bella NealeAssistant Producer: Phoebe De LeiburnéVideo Editor: James ScrivenSocial Media Manager: Charlie YoungMusic: Jackson GreenbergBrought to you by charity The Hidden 20% #1203348__________________Follow & subscribe…Website: www.hidden20.orgInstagram / TikTok / Youtube / X: @Hidden20charityBen Branson @seedlip_benDr Louise Newson @menopause_doctorIf you'd like to support The Hidden 20%, you can buy a "green dot" badge at https://www.hidden20.org/thegreendot/p/badge. All proceeds go to the charity. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Will Chase, the visionary behind Tyrrells crisps and Chase Vodka, shares his remarkable journey from entrepreneurial success to confronting his ADHD and autism diagnoses at 60. He discusses the internal chaos and relationship struggles that accompanied his ambition. Will emphasizes the connection between mental well-being and sustainable practices through his organic farming initiatives. The conversation also delves into self-forgiveness and personal growth, shedding light on the emotional cycles of neurodivergence and their impact on leadership.

Lucinda Miller is a leading naturopath and functional medicine practitioner with over 30 years of experience supporting children’s health. She’s the founder of NatureDoc, a nationwide clinic helping families navigate everything from gut and sleep challenges for neurodivergent children.Her expertise isn’t just clinical, it’s personal. As a late-diagnosed ADHD’er and mum to a neurodivergent family, Lucinda brings a rare combination of lived experience and deep professional insight.In this conversation with Ben, Lucinda shares practical, evidence-based strategies for supporting neurodivergent kids. Plus smart, accessible tips that can supercharge nutrition, even for children with highly restrictive diets.________00:00 Introduction1:26 Lucinda’s Brain & ADHD6:05 Why Nutrition?9:16 Lucinda’s Clients: Who She Helps and How14:12 What is Naturopathy?17:14 How Long Covid is Linked to Hyper-mobility and Neurodivergence21:37 Accessible Nutrition for Neurodivergent People25:30 Lucinda’s Sleep Tips For ND Kids37:04 Balancing Being the Expert & Vulnerable Clients38:34 Does Poor Nutrition Cause Neurodivergence or Enhance Traits?41:33 Hormones and Fluctuations in Traits42:36 Neurodivergent Pre-Puberty Nutrition Tips46:00 What Are Mood Boosting Foods?49:22 ARFID & ND Children: How To Variate Food56:50 ND & Inflammation of the Gut: Why?58:00 What Neurodivergent Children Have Taught Lucinda & What Needs To Change1:02:10 Lucinda’s Green Light Badge_______Follow & subscribe…Website: www.hidden20.orgInstagram / TikTok / Youtube / X: @Hidden20charityBen Branson @seedlip_benLucinda Miller @naturedockidsIf you'd like to support The Hidden 20%, you can buy a "green dot" badge at https://www.hidden20.org/thegreendot/p/badge. All proceeds go to the charity. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.