The Hidden 20%

In this second part of the conversation, Ben is joined again by Cathy Wassell - CEO of Autistic Girls Network, founder of The Haven online school, and author.The focus shifts to solutions: changing education, understanding the hidden side of emotions, and tackling the mental health risks autistic girls face. Cathy brings clarity and compassion to topics like Alexithymia, Interoception, and the realities of school life.She also answers listener questions on EHCPs, burnout, school refusal, and diagnosis, before closing with her vision for a fairer future rooted in authenticity and the joy of autistic brains.CW: This episode contains references to mental health and suicide.NB: All information was relevant at the time of recording.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_benCathy Wassell @autisticgirlsnetworkIf 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 first of a two-part episode, Ben is joined by Cathy Wassell - CEO of Autistic Girls Network, founder of The Haven online school, and successful author.Neurodivergent herself and mum to two autistic children, Cathy is at the front line supporting autistic girls, women, and families, while campaigning for earlier diagnosis and a more up-to-date education system.With both lived experience and a Masters in Autism, Cathy brings honesty and expertise to a conversation that busts myths, challenges stigma, and shines a light on what’s really going on for autistic girls and non-binary young people today.00:00 Introduction1:17 On the Frontline: Supporting Girls with Autism7:30 Autism: How It Presents in Boys VS Girls10:00 Why Situational Mutism VS Selective Mutism?13:03 Masking & Sensory Differences: The Danger of Gender Bias in Autism19:46 Neurodivergent Children: Navigating the Secondary School Transition23:07 ND Passionate Interests: Explained26:33 Why Are Autistic Girls Diagnosed Later than Boys?32:30 Parent Groups for ND Children35:00 Autistic Girls and Navigating Puberty38:57 If Cathy Had a Magic Wand: Her Vision for ND Change43:28 Spotting Autism in Girls: Cathy’s Checklist45:24 Coming Up in Part Two_________Host: Ben BransonProduction Manager: Phoebe De LeiburnéVideo Editor: James ScrivenSocial Media Manager: Charlie YoungMusic: Jackson GreenbergThe 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_benCathy Wassell @autisticgirlsnetworkIf 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 a heartfelt conversation, Ellie Middleton, an author and neurodivergent advocate, shares her late ADHD diagnosis and the challenges of managing medication. She addresses the concept of the 'lost generation' of late-diagnosed individuals, emphasizing the significance of community support. Ellie offers practical tips on embracing neurodivergent traits, making small adjustments to one's environment, and finding your tribe for emotional and energetic sustainability. Her insights shine a light on the power of language and belonging in fostering understanding.

In this engaging discussion, Dr. Nerina Ramlakhan, a renowned sleep expert and neurophysiologist, shares invaluable insights on sleep for neurodivergent individuals. She offers practical tips for parents supporting their children’s rest and highlights the importance of creating safe environments. They explore the transformative power of dreams, the impact of senses on sleep quality, and strategies for emotional regulation. With warmth and wisdom, Dr. Ramlakhan reveals how small changes can significantly improve our ability to rest better.

Dr. Nerina Ramlakhan, a neurophysiologist and sleep expert with over 25 years of experience, shares her inspiring journey from childhood insomnia to becoming a practitioner in the same psychiatric unit where she was once treated. The conversation reveals the intricate link between sleep and feelings of safety, as well as how neurodivergent individuals face unique sleep challenges. She offers insights on the myths surrounding sleep, the impact of technology, and practical tips to enhance sleep quality for better mental health.

Kit Harington, famed for his role in Game of Thrones, candidly shares his struggles with ADHD, addiction, and anxiety. He opens up about the chaos of multitasking with a neurodivergent mind, navigating the pressures of parenting and acting. Kit reflects on how his journey towards sobriety has reshaped his identity and relationships. He also recognizes the surprising comfort and clarity he finds in simple moments, like taking a shower, revealing the unexpected ways to cope with life's challenges.

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.