Neurodivergent Nook

Helen Neale and Diane Frainer
  • 5.0 (2)
  • PARENTING

Neurodivergent Nook is your go-to podcast for everything neurodivergent: from ADHD to Autism, Dyslexia, Dyspraxia and all cognitive difference! Hosted by a compassionate therapist and an experienced SEND headteacher, this podcast dives deep into the world of neurodiversity. From sharing lived experiences to offering expert advice, we cover it all to empower and support neurodivergent individuals across the globe. Whether you're seeking practical tips, heartfelt stories, or a sense of community, Neurodivergent Nook is here to help you navigate life as an ND individual. Tune in and join the conversation that celebrates neurodiversity in all its forms!

Episodes

  1. 5 DAYS AGO

    Neurodivergent Nook Ep3: Explaining Interoception

    Unlock the hidden world of interoception: an often overlooked sense that impacts how neurodivergent individuals understand their own bodies and emotions. If you’ve ever wondered why recognizing hunger, thirst, or even pain feels so elusive, this episode reveals the surprising truth behind this vital yet misunderstood sense. Join Helen Neale, a therapist with lived experience of autism and ADHD, and Diane, an educator and foster carer, as they explore how interoception influences everyday life: from basic needs like eating and drinking to managing emotions and pain. Discover why neurodivergent brains often miss these signals, leading to challenges in self-care, emotional regulation, and overall wellbeing. They share eye-opening stories about children and teens in trauma, revealing how survival mode can disconnect someone from their body's cues, and what that means for caregivers and professionals. You’ll learn about concrete frameworks and tactics to support interoceptive awareness, including tips for recognizing subtle signs of hunger or distress before they escalate. We break down the implications of ignored signals, such as dehydration, hypoglycemia, or emotional overwhelm, and how they can be mistaken for stubbornness, mood swings, or defiance. This episode explores how missing these cues impacts mental health, learning, and daily functioning, emphasising the critical need for understanding and embracing interoception in neurodivergent support.Why does this matter? Because when you grasp how interoception shapes behavior and emotion, you unlock the potential for more compassionate, effective care whether you’re supporting children, teens, or adults navigating the complexities of neurodivergence. This episode is essential listening for professionals, parents, and neurodivergent individuals alike who want to decode their body's signals and foster greater self-awareness and wellbeing.If you’re tired of misunderstood behaviors and want practical insights into one of the most overlooked senses, tune in now. Your journey to better self-understanding starts here.

    8 min

  2. 25 APR

    Neurodivergent Nook Ep2: Understanding Sensory Needs and Overwhelm

    Unlock the hidden world of sensory experiences and discover how understanding your sensory needs can transform your daily life. Whether you're neurodivergent or neurotypical, missing this insight means missing out on easier, more enjoyable ways to thrive, especially in hectic environments like school or work. If sensory overwhelm has ever held you back, this episode shows you practical tools to regain control, feel grounded, and foster understanding in yourself and others. We give you real-life stories and expert advice that reveal the core of sensory processing differences. Helen Neale, an autistic ADHD therapist, and Diane, an education consultant and parent of neurodivergent children, share candid experiences and accessible frameworks. You'll discover: How bottom-up sensory overload happens and why traditional approaches often miss the markThe importance of autonomy and collaboration in managing sensory needs, andSimple yet powerful techniques like grounding, sensory breaks, and using technology to support self-regulation. We break down the eight senses, including the often-overlooked interoception, and why awareness of these internal and external inputs is crucial for emotional regulation and effective learning. Learn how elementary school environments can better support sensory regulation with small tweaks and how understanding individual differences can prevent overwhelm and foster success. These actionable insights are vital for educators, parents, and anyone eager to create calmer, more inclusive spaces.If you're tired of one-size-fits-all strategies that overlook personal sensory needs This episode is your key to a more compassionate, effective approach. Perfect for educators, parents, or neurodivergent individuals seeking practical, empathetic solutions, because when we understand sensory differences, everyone benefits. Turn confusion into clarity, overwhelm into control, and discover the true foundation of mental well-being: sensing yourself and your environment clearly. Hit play now and start your journey toward sensory harmony.

    29 min
  3. Neurodivergent Nook Ep1: Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria

    18 APR

    Neurodivergent Nook Ep1: Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria

    The first episode of Neurodivergent Nook introduces the hosts, Helen Neal and Diane Franer, who share their experiences as neurodivergent individuals. They discuss rejection-sensitive dysphoria (RSD) and its impact on their lives, as well as the importance of empathy, self-compassion, and adapting to individual needs. The conversation highlights the challenges of seeking clarity, the impact of trauma and neglect, and the importance of understanding behavior as communication. The hosts emphasize the need for empathy, kindness, and self-acceptance in navigating the experience of Rejection Seneitive Dysphoria (RSD). Takeaways Empathy and kindness are essential in understanding and supporting individuals with rejection-sensitive dysphoria (RSD).Adapting to individual needs, embracing imperfections, and being kind to oneself are crucial in managing the impact of RSD.

    39 min
  • 3 Episodes

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
2 Ratings

About

Neurodivergent Nook is your go-to podcast for everything neurodivergent: from ADHD to Autism, Dyslexia, Dyspraxia and all cognitive difference! Hosted by a compassionate therapist and an experienced SEND headteacher, this podcast dives deep into the world of neurodiversity. From sharing lived experiences to offering expert advice, we cover it all to empower and support neurodivergent individuals across the globe. Whether you're seeking practical tips, heartfelt stories, or a sense of community, Neurodivergent Nook is here to help you navigate life as an ND individual. Tune in and join the conversation that celebrates neurodiversity in all its forms!

Information

  • Creator
    Helen Neale and Diane Frainer
  • Years Active
    2k
  • Episodes
    3
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Helen Neale and Diane Frainer
  • Show Website
    Neurodivergent Nook

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