

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lived experience voices to uncover the true scale and potential of neurodiversity – challenging myths, stereotypes and outdated systems.While others talk awareness, we demand recognition, representation and reform.Every month, more than 50,000 people turn to The Hidden 20% to learn,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

Aug 30, 2024 • 14min
Eastenders Features Dyscalculia, Rising Disability Benefits & Medication Shortages
Join us for an unscripted, unedited bonus episode with our host, Ben Branson, as he shares his candid thoughts.In this exciting and evolving time for the neurodivergent community, change is happening rapidly. Each week, we encounter incredible stories and important news, and we want to keep you in the loop.In this episode, Ben dives into some top headlines, from Dyscalculia taking centre stage in Eastenders to why there's a rise 40% in disability benefits. Plus, we have a special little guest on this episode._________________________Articles mentioned in this episode:Autism Diagnosis Medication Shortage- Independent Record Number Children on Disability Benefits (Autism/ADHD) - TelegraphAustralia's Remake Of The Assembly - The Conversation Eastenders & Dyscalculia - BBC _________________________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% #1203348Follow & 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.

Aug 28, 2024 • 49min
Tourette Syndrome Got Him Fired | Aidy Smith Speaks Out
Today’s’ guest is the only TV presenter in the UK with Tourettes syndrome.Aidy Smith is award-winning broadcaster journalist making waves in the drinks industry. You may recognise his dulcit tones from BBC Radio or seen him sipping wine whilst hosting Amazon’s highest-rated drinks-travel series, "The Three Drinkers".In this chat with Ben, Aidy unpacks Executive Dysfunction, living with chronic pain and how to thrive in the entertainment industry with Tourettes.___________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% #1203348Follow & subscribe… Website: www.hidden20.orgInstagram / TikTok / Youtube / X: @Hidden20podcastBen Branson @seedlip_benAidy Smith @syppedIf 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.

Aug 21, 2024 • 1h 1min
Neurodivergence, Feral Rage & Embracing Chaos with Mark Evans
Mark Evans is a draughtsman and sculptor known for his meticulous technique of etching photorealistic images onto leather hides. His works, renowned for their surgical precision and stunning detail, are held in prestigious private collections worldwide, ranging from royalty to Hollywood's A-list.As someone with a neurodivergent family, Mark understands the art of carving your own path. In this conversation with Ben, he delves into his journey—exploring the feral rage that drives his creativity, the formation of a secret “band of brothers,” and how to find beauty in chaos.___________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% #1203348Follow & subscribe… Website: www.hidden20.orgInstagram / TikTok / Youtube / X: @Hidden20podcastBen Branson @seedlip_benMark Evans @markevans.studioIf 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.

Aug 16, 2024 • 29min
Prehistoric Autism, Neurodivergent Offenders & Embracing The “Normal Zebra”
Explore the intriguing link between prehistoric autism and survival traits like ADHD. Uncover myths surrounding autism reversal and learn about innovative support initiatives, including an autism passport for job seekers. The story of a non-speaking autistic boy designing Nike shoes highlights the power of creativity. Plus, personal journeys reveal how self-expression and understanding neurodivergence can lead to growth and healing. Don't miss unique insights and listener contributions that celebrate the beauty of diversity.

Aug 14, 2024 • 36min
Dyslexia, AI & Disruptive Entrepreneurship with Pip Jamieson
This weeks guest is Pip Jamieson, the delightfully dyslexic founder of The Dots- recognised by The Sunday Times as one of the Top 100 Disruptive Entrepreneurs and by Ad Week as a trailblazing leader making a global impact.In this chat with Ben, Pip opens up about her evolving perspective on dyslexia, her journey as a disruptive entrepreneur, the importance of diversity in business, and the exciting yet daunting future of AI.____________________ 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: 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: @Hidden20podcastBen Branson @seedlip_benPip Jamieson @pip_jamiesonThe Dots https://the-dots.com/ 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.

Aug 9, 2024 • 22min
Neurodivergent's Winning Olympic Gold, Chronic Disabling Fatigue and a Diagnosis Journey
Explore the remarkable achievements of neurodivergent athletes, including Olympic gold medalists, and the surprising connections between neurodivergence and chronic disabling fatigue. Listen to poignant stories of personal diagnosis journeys and the advocacy for vulnerable individuals within the community. Discover the innovative strides in the non-alcoholic beverage industry that reflect neurodiverse creativity, and embrace the emotional journey of self-discovery and acceptance that comes with understanding one's unique identity.

Aug 7, 2024 • 59min
ADHD, Time Blindness & "I Kissed a Girl" with Amy Spalding
Amy Spalding, beloved for her humour and iconic boots, brought some much-needed femme-for-femme representation to BBC’s hit reality show, I Kissed A Girl. Often referred to as the “people's lesbian princess”, it’s fair to say she was a fan-favourite.In this episode, Ben explores why Amy was often told she was “too much.” Amy discusses her ADHD diagnosis, struggles with time-blindness, and journey to embracing her queer identity. She also shares her experiences in the Masseria and running her successful new jewellery brand through an ADHD lens.____________________ 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: 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: @Hidden20podcastBen Branson @seedlip_benAmy Spalding @amy_spaldingIf 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.

Jul 31, 2024 • 54min
Acquired Neurodivergence & Climbing Everest 18 Times
Kenton Cool, a legendary mountaineer who has conquered Everest 18 times, shares his extraordinary journey. He opens up about how a traumatic brain injury led to his acquired neurodivergence, reshaping his approach to climbing. New insights into altitude's impact on cognitive function are revealed. Kenton also reflects on resilience during his climbing accident and the contrasting sense of community and mental challenges encountered at high altitudes. His passion for adventure is matched only by his desire for personal fulfillment, making for an inspiring conversation.

Jul 30, 2024 • 26min
Autistic Spongebob, Jessie J ADHD Diagnosis & A Cure For Autism
Today's episode is a little different.Join us for an unscripted, unedited bonus episode with our host, Ben Branson, as he shares his candid opinions.It's an exciting time in the neurodivergent community, with lots of change. Each week, we come across incredible and sometimes surprising news, and we want to keep you informed.In this episode, Ben delves into some of the most notable stories in the neurodivergent space, from the buzz about an autistic SpongeBob SquarePants to Jessie J's recent ADHD diagnosis. Plus, we have a very special contribution from one of our listeners.____________________ 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% #1203348Follow & 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.

Jul 24, 2024 • 55min
Autism Spectrum Disorder & Gender Dysphoria: The Story Of TV Star Tylan Grant
At just 16, Tylan Grant made history as the first black actor to portray an autistic character on mainstream TV, winning multiple awards. His role in Hollyoaks mirrors his own experiences with gender identity and neurodivergence.In this chat with Ben, Tylan discusses the link between Autism and gender dysphoria, his experience on the Hollyoaks set, transcendental meditation, and managing social anxiety.0:00 Introduction1:40 Autism & Identity8:47 Tylan's Special Interest11:15 Tylan's Neurodivergent Family14:36 Hollyoaks18:27 Neurodivergence & Gender Dysphoria25:17 The Neurodivergent Sixth Sense27:05 Neurodivergence, Anxiety and Transcendental Meditation31:18 Neurodiversity and Socialising37:00 Tylan's 3 Special Interests43:00 Tylan's Brain45:07 Tylan's Message For Young Neurodivergent People48:25 Finishing With Hollyoaks And The Future51:55 Post Hangout Anxiety54:43 AdFollow & subscribe… Website: www.hidden20.orgInstagram / TikTok / Youtube / X: @Hidden20podcastBen Branson @seedlip_benTylan Grant @hxpefullyIf 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.


