

The Hidden 20%
The Hidden 20%
Help us rewrite the future for every mind.Join the movement and donate at hidden20.org/donateThe Hidden 20% is a UK-registered charity, podcast and movement rewriting the future for every mind.Founded by autistic/ADHD entrepreneur Ben Branson, we find and share the truth about neurodiversity – catching society up and breaking the cycle of silence, shame and suffering.Through stories, science and truth, we make the hidden visible.Each week, we speak with leading experts and lived experience voices to uncover the true scale and potential of neurodiversity – challenging myths, stereotypes and outdated systems.While others talk awareness, we demand recognition, representation and reform.Every month, more than 50,000 people turn to The Hidden 20% to learn, connect and feel seen. With your support, we can reach further, grow louder and keep amplifying the truth.Join the movement where great minds think differently.Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Jan 22, 2025 • 55min
"I Nearly Died": ADHD Comedian on Adenomyosis & Neurodivergence Link
CW: Mental Health, Gore, BloodMarjolein Robertson, celebrated for her raw, relatable humour has taken the comedy world by storm. With widespread acclaim at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival and a coveted spot on The List Hot 100, she has cemented her place as a rising star in comedy.In this episode, Marjolein opens up about being overlooked in the healthcare system, unpacks the link between neurodivergence and PMDD, Adenomyosis, and Endometriosis, and shares the story of her near-death experience. She also reflects on how as an ADHD comedian, the stage is the only place she has control of time._______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 NealeVideo Editor: James ScrivenSocial Media Manager: Charlie YoungMusic: Jackson Greenberg Brought to you by charity The Hidden 20% #1203348 _____________________________________ Follow & subscribe… Website: www.hidden20.orgInstagram / TikTok / Youtube / X: @Hidden20charityBen Branson @seedlip_benMarjolein Robertson @marjoleinrobertsonIf 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.

Jan 15, 2025 • 1h 1min
Neurodivergent & Neurotypical Twins: "It Made Me Feel Inferior"
At just 22, Ward Thomas made history as the first UK country act to reach number one. Twin sisters Lizzy and Catherine have firmly established themselves as trailblazers in the British country music scene, but the journey to the top wasn't always smooth.In this chat with Ben, Lizzy and Catherine reflect on how neurodivergence has shaped their identities, creativity, and music. They discuss Lizzy’s feelings of inadequacy as the "dyslexic twin," the struggles of ADHD decision paralysis, the importance of creating space for one another, and the challenges of sibling comparison in a neurodivergent family. The sisters also share why Dyslexic thinkers often thrive as singers and songwriters.Stick around until the end—you might just be treated to a special a cappella performance!_______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 NealeVideo Editor: James ScrivenSocial Media Manager: Charlie YoungMusic: Jackson Greenberg Brought to you by charity The Hidden 20% #1203348 _____________________________________ Follow & subscribe… Website: www.hidden20.orgInstagram / TikTok / Youtube / X: @Hidden20charityBen Branson @seedlip_benWard Thomas @wardthomasmusicIf 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.

Jan 8, 2025 • 1h 4min
ADHD CEO who signed Amy Winehouse: 'We’re cut from the same cloth.'
From West London roots to becoming the first Black CEO of Island Records in the UK and US, Darcus Beese has shaped the music industry, launching stars like Amy Winehouse, Jessie J, Shawn Mendes, and Demi Lovato.He shares the challenges of being a CEO with ADHD, the dangers of relentless work, and how medication brought clarity—allowing him to see the world "in HD" for the first time. Darcus also reflects on growing up as a Black neurodivergent boy in 1970s Britain and unveils the reality of success in the music industry, from Sabrina Carpenter to Chappell Roan._______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 BransonProducer: Bella NealeVideo Editor: Panos AgamemnosSocial 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_benDarcus Beese @darcuscbYou can buy Darcus' book Rebel With A Cause on Amazon.If 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.

Dec 18, 2024 • 1h 9min
A Neurospicy Christmas with The Grants
To celebrate the end of our first year at The Hidden 20%, we’re bringing back a familiar face from day one: Carrie Grant!This time, Carrie is joined by her husband, David Grant — the legendary vocal coaches from Pop Idol and Fame Academy. But beyond their iconic careers, the Grants are parents to four neurodivergent children, making them the perfect guests to explore what a neurodivergent Christmas looks like.In this chat with Ben, Carrie and David share why Christmas should come with zero expectations, the importance of unmasking as neurodivergent parent, why they allow their children to “walk away” on Christmas Day, the reality of gift-giving to neurodivergent children and the changes they hope to see in 2025._____________________________________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 BransonProducer: Bella NealeVideo Editor: Panos AgamemnosSocial 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_benCarrie Grant @carriegrantsaysDavid Grant @davidgrantssays_If 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.

Dec 11, 2024 • 58min
The Untold Story of The Tourettes Barber
Josh Hughes, aka The Tourettes Barber, has turned his experience with Tourettes into a powerful story of resilience and inspiration. With over a million TikTok followers, he uses humour and honesty to challenge stereotypes, raise awareness, and show that hands-on work is possible with severe tics.In this conversation with Ben, Josh opens up about the real dangers he’s faced, including being attacked for involuntary outbursts, his struggles with social media censorship, battling depression, and finding his purpose. He also explores how is Tourettes and Dyslexia intersect._____________________________________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 BransonProducer: Bella NealeVideo Editor: Panos AgamemnosSocial Media Manager: Charlie YoungMusic: Jackson GreenbergBrought to you by charity The Hidden 20% #1203348_____________________________________Follow & subscribe… Website: www.hidden20.orgInstagram / TikTok / Youtube / X: @Hidden20podcastBen Branson @seedlip_benJosh Hughes @thetourettesbarberIf 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.

Dec 4, 2024 • 51min
ADHD/Autistic Neuroscientist Reveals Shocking New Discoveries
In this episode, we’re joined by Dr. Miguel Toribio-Mateas, a neuroscientist, applied microbiologist, and holistic health expert with over two decades of experience. Dr. Miguel Toribio-Mateas has developed a unique expertise in the fascinating connections between neurodivergence, mental health, and the gut microbiome.In this chat with Ben, Dr. Miguel uncovers some of the latest and, at times, unsettling discoveries in neuroscience. From exploring the risks of psychosis linked to ADHD medication to discussing a revolutionary imaging technique that identifies autism with 95% accuracy. this episode is a deep dive into the cutting-edge science shaping our understanding of the brain._____________________________________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 BransonProducer: Bella NealeVideo Editor: Tom ForristerSocial Media Manager: Charlie YoungMusic: Jackson GreenbergBrought to you by charity The Hidden 20% #1203348_____________________________________Follow & subscribe… Website: www.hidden20.orgInstagram / TikTok / Youtube / X: @Hidden20podcastBen Branson @seedlip_benDr Miguel Toribio-Mateas @drmiguelmateasIf 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.

Nov 27, 2024 • 1h 19min
ADHD & Autistic Big Brother Winner, Ali Bromley: 'I Just Couldn't Play the Game'
CW: mental health & suicideForensic psychologist Ali Bromley made history as the first lesbian to win Big Brother UK. In this candid chat with Ben, Ali reflects on her journey in the house—proudly representing the ADHD, Autistic, and LGBTQIA+ communities, grappling with sensory overwhelm, and navigating the autistic drive for unyielding authenticity. She also shares insights from her time assessing autism in prisons and finding new purpose after the tragic loss of her neurodivergent brother.Plus, a SURPRISE GUEST joins Ali for the neuroqueer collaboration of the century. You won’t want to miss this iconic duo._____________________________________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 BransonProducer: Bella NealeVideo Editor: Tom ForristerSocial Media Manager: Charlie YoungMusic: Jackson GreenbergBrought to you by charity The Hidden 20% #1203348_____________________________________Follow & subscribe… Website: www.hidden20.orgInstagram / TikTok / Youtube / X: @Hidden20podcastBen Branson @seedlip_benAli Bromley @_ali.bromleyIf 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.

13 snips
Nov 20, 2024 • 1h 17min
ADHD Psychologist warns: “It’s not safe to diagnose people online”
Dr. Nancy Doyle, a leading ADHD organizational psychologist and founder of Genius Within, shares her insights on the neurodivergent unemployment crisis. She warns against the dangers of online diagnoses and discusses the complexities of workplace communication for neurodivergent individuals. Nancy also opens up about historical school trauma and the impact it has on self-worth. The conversation highlights the need for supportive environments and practical adjustments in the workplace to help neurodivergent individuals thrive.

Nov 13, 2024 • 50min
Ex-Con & Counsellor EXPOSE ADHD Prison Crisis
Content Warning: This episode contains discussions of suicide, alcohol use, and mental health challenges. If you or someone you know needs support, contact Samaritans at 116 123 or visit Samaritans.org.In this eye-opening episode, counsellor and CBT therapist Sarah Templeton reveals why she believes the true rate of ADHD in UK prisons is far higher than current estimates. With years of experience in the prison system, Sarah created the first ADHD screening checklist for detainees, helping make the City of London Police the first to screen for ADHD.Joining Sarah and Ben is an ex-offender with over 500 convictions, who shares how undiagnosed ADHD fuelled his cycle of re-offending. This conversation sheds light on the often-overlooked link between neurodivergence and the criminal justice system.Please note: The guest's name has been bleeped out to protect his identity.______________________________________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 BransonProducer: Bella NealeVideo Editor: Tom ForristerSocial Media Manager: Charlie YoungMusic: Jackson GreenbergBrought to you by charity The Hidden 20% #1203348_____________________________________Follow & subscribe… Website: www.hidden20.orgInstagram / TikTok / Youtube / X: @Hidden20podcastBen Branson @seedlip_benIf 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.

Nov 6, 2024 • 41min
Ex-Civil Servant: "I Was CRITICAL of ADHD Waiting Lists"
Abigail Agyei-Jones MBE is an award-winning diversity champion and neurodiversity advocate with ADHD and Dyspraxia.In this chat with Ben, Abigail shares the internalised shame she’s faced over struggling with everyday tasks—like driving and tying shoelaces—and unpacks the unique barriers Black neurodivergent children encounter in accessing support.She also reveals the real story behind her departure from the civil service.______________________________________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. Brought to you by charity The Hidden 20% #1203348 Host: Ben BransonProducer: Bella NealeVideo Editor: Tom ForristerSocial Media Manager: Charlie YoungMusic: Jackson GreenbergBrought to you by charity The Hidden 20% #1203348_____________________________________Follow & subscribe… Website: www.hidden20.orgInstagram / TikTok / Youtube / X: @Hidden20podcastBen Branson @seedlip_benAbigail Ageyi-JonesIf 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.


