The Neurodivergent Woman

On this week’s episode we chat with Sari González and Becka Koritz – co-founders of Radical Learning – about unschooling and alternative models of education. Sari and Becka are mums to neurodivergent unschoolers, youth rights advocates, and agile learning facilitators who challenge conventional education and parenting. Through their business, Radical Learning, and their podcast, Radical Learning Talks, they support parents and educators in unlearning control-based approaches to education and embracing trust, consent, and youth agency - especially when supporting neurodivergent kids.   On this episode we cover: How Becka and Sari think about neurodivergence. Becka and Sari’s paths to alternative education. What’s the difference between homeschooling and unschooling? Concepts in unschooling, including de-schooling, consent-based learning, and understanding how power manifests in mainstream ideas of teaching and learning. How can we teach our kids if we aren’t teachers? Navigating our inner ‘Mrs. Trunchbull’ and the internal work of de-schooling. Neurodivergence and learning; honouring our unique talents and skills. Unpacking the concept of ‘resilience’. The Shift Retreat from Radical Learning   Sari and Becka are coming to us from Mexico, so listeners may occasionally hear the sounds of nature in the background!   Connect with Sari and Becka through their podcast, their website, or their Instagram @radical_learning.   Plus, books that Marie recommends in this space: Unschooling To University: Relationships matter most in a world crammed with content by Judy Arnall Homeschool Gone Wild: Inspired Learning Through Living by Karla Marie Williams College Without High School: A Teenager’s Guide by Blake Boles The Self-Driven Child: The Science and Sense of Giving Your Kids More Control Over Their Lives by William Stixrud and Ned Johnson Raising Free People: Unschooling as Liberation and Healing Work by Akilah S. Richards     Enjoyed this episode and want more content? Join our Patreon community! Patreon subscribers receive ad-free episodes, basic episode transcripts from Season 4 onwards, 50% off our episode articles, plus access to a huge backlog of bonus content, including bonus episodes, access to online courses, tip sheets and workbooks, and guided meditation practices. Check out our Patreon page to support us, as we aim to make quality mental health care information accessible to everyone: www.patreon.com/ndwomanpod.   Want polished copies of our episodes in beautiful and readable pdf article format? Grab them here.    Contact us at ndwomanpod@gmail.com, or visit our website: www.ndwomanpod.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The discussion dives deep into the fascinating world of learning and memory, highlighting the four key stages: perception, encoding, retention, and retrieval. It particularly focuses on the unique challenges faced by neurodivergent individuals, including how sensory overload can impact memory. Insights into the effects of hormonal changes during pregnancy and menopause on cognitive function are shared. Listeners also learn about innovative strategies for improving memory retention and the importance of personalized learning environments for better comprehension.

We are back with Season 7 of the podcast on March 24th!   In the meantime, we both have some online training for professionals. Check out Michelle’s training on providing meaningful and theraputic Assessment Feedback for psychologists, running online on the 28th Feb, and Monique’s training on the Square Model – Supporting Neurodivergent Folks in Therapy, running online on the 12th-14th March. Both trainings can be attended live or watched later.   See you in a month for Season 7!   ~ Michelle and Monique  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Clare Bowen, the talented Australian actor from Nashville and a passionate musician with Bowen Young, shares her journey as an autistic and ADHD woman. She discusses the impact of her childhood cancer treatment on her understanding of neurodivergence. Clare explores the duality of strengths and challenges, the importance of connection, and the role of music in her healing process. She also debunks myths surrounding autism and emphasizes the significance of embracing special interests, all while advocating for greater inclusivity for neurodivergent individuals.

In this conversation, Dr. Jamie Marich, a clinical trauma specialist and recovery advocate, dives deep into dissociation as a coping mechanism. She explores its various forms and the misconceptions surrounding dissociative disorders. Jamie shares her personal experiences with dissociative identities and the power of creative therapies, like martial arts and expressive arts, in healing. The discussion also highlights the connection between dissociation and neurodivergence, particularly with Autism and ADHD, aiming to reduce stigma and foster understanding.

Dr. Megan Anna Neff, a clinical psychologist and founder of Neurodivergent Insights, dives deep into the nuances of neurodivergence and self-care. She shares her own late-in-life discovery of neurodivergence and the mix of emotions it brought. Megan addresses common self-care barriers for neurodivergent women and redefines self-care to be more inclusive. The discussion also highlights personalized strategies, sensory self-care practices, and the importance of community in navigating these experiences. A refreshing perspective on self-care tailored for diverse neurodivergent needs!

Marie Masse, a late-identified 2e AuDHDer and creative artist, shares her inspiring journey of reclaiming creativity after trauma. She discusses how special interests serve as an organizing force for neurodivergent individuals and differentiates between autistic and ADHD special interests. Marie reflects on the emotional landscape of creativity, the struggles of balancing passion with responsibilities, and the importance of nurturing one's unique identity. Her insights invite listeners to explore their own pathways to healing and self-expression through art.

Discover how Jess Rowlings navigates her neurodivergent journey through gaming. She shares her research on how games enhance problem-solving and collaboration. The podcast highlights the unique challenges faced by women in gaming and the importance of creating inclusive spaces. Explore the evolution of gaming culture and the rise of female gamers. Jess discusses the balance needed between gaming and real life while addressing potential negative effects. Dive into the transformative power of games for emotional support and community engagement.

In this conversation, Professor Sandra Thom-Jones, an autistic author and advocate, shares her insights on aging as an autistic individual. She discusses the often 'invisible' nature of older autistic adults and the unique support they require. Sandra explores how generational differences shape perceptions of autism, the challenges of navigating later life transitions like menopause and retirement, and the need to move beyond neuro-normative expectations about aging. She also offers valuable tips for finding joy during retirement as an autistic person.

This engaging discussion dives deep into the complex dynamics of grooming, particularly within neurodivergent communities. Anna Clarke shares fascinating insights on the distinct phases of grooming and the unique vulnerabilities that neurodivergent individuals face. The conversation also touches on manipulative tactics like love bombing and gaslighting. Listeners will learn about recognizing red flags and the importance of trauma-informed support for survivors. Practical advice for parents and communities offers a proactive approach to safeguarding vulnerable individuals.