The Hidden 20%

Shahroo Izadi, a psychologist and bestselling author, dives into her late ADHD diagnosis and personal experiences in addiction services. She discusses the link between addiction and impulsivity, arguing it's often a coping strategy rather than a disease. Shahroo emphasizes that behaviour change isn't just about willpower but about small, actionable steps tailored to neurodivergent minds. She critiques traditional habit-forming apps and shares practical tips for sustainable change while highlighting the need for supportive environments and understanding our vulnerabilities.

Sam Branson discusses the importance of realistic neurodivergent goals, pushing back against pressure and embracing creative self-care. Tony Lloyd shares his insights on neurodivergent-friendly goal setting, advocating for systemic changes and outlining his wishes for 2026. Dr. Alison Lennox provides a clinical perspective, emphasizing cohesion within the neurodiverse community and setting professional goals that enhance autistic identity. Together, they explore shifting from rigid resolutions to compassionate, achievable goals.

Carrie Grant, a vocal coach and autism advocate, shares her journey of unmasking after her diagnosis, focusing on embracing neurodivergence during family festivities. David Grant, her husband and fellow vocal coach, discusses the challenges of ADHD assessment wait lists and their shared experiences as neurodivergent parents. Together, they highlight the importance of creating meaningful Christmas traditions that prioritize memories over material gifts, while letting go of societal pressures to redefine holiday joy for their family.

Dr. Josephine Neale, a child and adolescent psychiatrist and founder of Neale Health, dives into the nuances of Avoidant Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID). She shares insights on how ARFID often intertwines with autism and ADHD, highlighting its four subtypes: sensory challenges, fear-driven behaviors, low appetite, and their combinations. Josephine addresses the growing recognition of ARFID in modern life, especially during the holidays, and offers practical tips for families. Her compassionate approach aims to illuminate this often-misunderstood eating disorder.

Dr. Alison Lennox, a consultant psychiatrist specializing in neurodiversity, joins to discuss the challenges that Christmas poses for neurodivergent individuals. They explore sensory overload, family expectations, and the importance of setting boundaries to protect mental health. Alison shares practical strategies for planning gatherings, managing social fatigue, and supporting neurodivergent children. With insights on navigating family dynamics and the pressures of the festive season, listeners are encouraged to prioritize their wellbeing and embrace self-compassion during the holidays.

Sam Branson, a devoted mother and wife, offers an unfiltered look into life with autism in her family. She shares the evolution of her marriage since their daughter River's diagnosis and the challenges of autistic shutdowns from both perspectives. The couple discusses their differing parenting styles, with Sam advocating for independence while Ben tends to intervene. They emphasize the importance of neurodiversity-aware schooling and provide heartfelt advice for families navigating similar journeys. This candid conversation encourages understanding and compassion throughout the ups and downs.

Dr. Luke Beardon, an esteemed autism lecturer with over 30 years in autism education, explores the systemic challenges faced by autistic individuals. He advocates for inclusivity as crucial support, debunking one-size-fits-all solutions. Luke emphasizes the need for sensory-friendly environments and offers practical tips for schools. He also sheds light on how autistic behaviors are often misunderstood in healthcare and the criminal justice system, urging for a thoughtful approach that acknowledges neurodiversity.

Dr. Luke Beardon, a senior lecturer and autism educator, passionately discusses how the language surrounding autism shapes perceptions. He challenges conventional terms like 'autistic spectrum' and introduces 'autistic epistemology,' emphasizing understanding through lived experiences. Luke debunks harmful myths, critiques the harmful labels of 'disorder' and 'spectrum,' and discusses the impact of environment on outcomes. With practical advice on communication, he advocates for curiosity and open dialogue about autism, aiming for a more inclusive perspective.

In this episode, writer and director Céin McGillicuddy joins Ben to talk about his late autism diagnosis and ‘Play Time’ - ITV’s joyful new series celebrating neurodiversity in children and adults.Céin reflects on growing up with parents so supportive that his autism went unnoticed for decades, the shock of discovering a 17-year NHS waitlist, and how finally understanding his brain reshaped his life and creativity.From ‘Horrible Histories’ and ‘The Assembly’ to ‘Play Time’, he shares an honest look at hyperfocus, burnout, and what it really means to tell neurodivergent stories - both through the camera and behind it.Plus, Ben and Céin react to an exclusive clip from ‘Play Time’, and discuss why TV shows like these are changing how we see neurodivergence on screen.CW: This episode includes discussion of mental health and suicide.Join us at hidden20.org/donate.Where To Watch Playtime:YouTube - https://tinyurl.com/ITVPlayTimeITVX - https://tinyurl.com/ITVXPlayTime_________Host: Ben BransonProduction Manager: Phoebe De LeiburnéVideo Editor: James ScrivenSocial Media Manager: Charlie YoungMusic: Jackson GreenbergHead of Marketing: Kristen FullerThe Hidden 20% is a charity founded by ADHD & autistic entrepreneur Ben Branson.Our mission is simple: To change how the world sees neurodivergence.No more stigma. No more shame. No more silence.1 in 5 people are neurodivergent. That’s 1.6 billion of us - yet too many are still excluded, misunderstood, or left without support.To break the cycle, we amplify voices, challenge myths, and keep showing up. Spotlighting stories, stats and hard truths. Smashing stereotypes through honest voices, creative campaigns and research that can’t be ignored.Every month, over 50,000 people turn to The Hidden 20% to feel safe, seen and to learn about brilliant brains.With your support, we can reach further, grow louder, and keep fighting for the 1 in 5 who deserve more.Join us at hidden20.org/donate.Become a monthly donor.Be part of our community where great minds think differently.Brought to you by charity The Hidden 20% #1203348______________Follow & subscribe…Website: www.hidden20.orgInstagram / TikTok / Youtube / X: @Hidden20charityBen Branson @seedlip_benCéin McGillicuddy @ceinmcgIf 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.

In this Episode, Plant-based chef and author Sophie Waplington (@sophsplantkitchen) opens up for the first time about her self-diagnosed ADHD, family estrangement, and the burnout that comes with juggling business, creativity, and self-employment.We talk about the emotional toll of family relationships when loved ones don’t believe in neurodivergence, the pressure to “perform” online, and why rest is sometimes the most productive thing you can do.Along the way, Soph shares her favourite plant-based tips for ADHD brains and her reflections on sobriety, self-acceptance, and slowing down.If you’ve ever felt misunderstood, overstimulated, or like you’re constantly starting over, this episode will remind you that you’re not broken - you’re just wired differently.Join us at hidden20.org/donate._________Host: Ben BransonProduction Manager: Phoebe De LeiburnéVideo Editor: James ScrivenSocial Media Manager: Charlie YoungMusic: Jackson GreenbergHead of Marketing: Kristen FullerThe Hidden 20% is a charity founded by ADHD & autistic entrepreneur Ben Branson.Our mission is simple: To change how the world sees neurodivergence.No more stigma. No more shame. No more silence.1 in 5 people are neurodivergent. That’s 1.6 billion of us - yet too many are still excluded, misunderstood, or left without support.To break the cycle, we amplify voices, challenge myths, and keep showing up. Spotlighting stories, stats and hard truths. Smashing stereotypes through honest voices, creative campaigns and research that can’t be ignored.Every month, over 50,000 people turn to The Hidden 20% to feel safe, seen and to learn about brilliant brains.With your support, we can reach further, grow louder, and keep fighting for the 1 in 5 who deserve more.Join us at hidden20.org/donate.Become a monthly donor.Be part of our community where great minds think differently.Brought to you by charity The Hidden 20% #1203348______________Follow & subscribe…Website: www.hidden20.orgInstagram / TikTok / Youtube / X: @Hidden20charityBen Branson @seedlip_benSophie Waplington @sophsplantkitchenIf 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.