Neurodivergent Nook

Helen Neale and Diane Frainer
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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!

  1. 1d ago

    Neurodivergent Nook Ep13: Autism, ADHD and Menopause from actual women who have lived it

    Explore the intersection of menopause, autism, ADHD, and neurodivergence in this candid conversation between Helen Neal and Diane Franer. They share personal experiences, discuss the gaps in research, and offer practical advice for neurodivergent women facing hormonal changes. In this episode The impact of menopause on neurodivergent traits like focus and emotional regulationChallenges in communication and medical support for neurodivergent women during menopauseThe importance of self-compassion and understanding your body's signalsHow hormonal fluctuations influence anxiety, fatigue, and brain fogThe need for increased research and awareness about women's health across the lifespanPractical tips: sleep, pacing, and advocating for yourself, andEncouraging open conversations with family and peers Research on menopause and neurodivergence Examining the link between ADHD symptoms and menopausal experiences: https://kclpure.kcl.ac.uk/portal/en/publications/examining-the-link-between-adhd-symptoms-and-menopausal-experienc/ ADHD experiences in perimenopause and menopause: a qualitative exploration https://www-tandfonline-com.uoelibrary.idm.oclc.org/doi/full/10.1080/18387357.2026.2673126 My own article on my personal experiences as a AuDHDer: https://ncps.com/our-voice/audhd-perimenopause-and-the-coping-mechanisms-that-suddenly-dont-work Timestamps 00:05 - Introduction to menopause and neurodivergence 01:04 - Neurodivergent traits affected by hormonal changes 02:04 - The gap in clinical discussions about neurodivergence during menopause 03:06 - Increase in diagnosis and understanding of neurodivergent women 04:00 - Personal diagnosis stories linked to menopause 04:27 - Managing emotional regulation and anxiety 05:33 - Seeking medical advice and advocating for HRT 06:23 - The challenge of supporting neurodivergent health needs 08:00 - The importance of self-advocacy with healthcare professionals 08:54 - Practical coping strategies: pacing and rest 09:54 - Recognizing and normalizing menopausal symptoms 10:43 - Sleep and fatigue management 11:07 - The societal taboos around menopause 12:23 - Accessibility of menopause support (specialist clinics) 14:21 - The impact of brain fog and forgetfulness 15:37 - Self-compassion and accepting neurodivergent traits 16:40 - The importance of community and peer support 18:35 - How biological and hormonal changes affect daily life 20:04 - The significance of planning and predictability 21:38 - Celebrating resilience and everyday achievements 23:19 - The importance of open family conversations 24:06 - Education in schools about menopause 25:08 - Call for increased research and awareness 26:03 - Closing remarks and resources Connect: Helen: Neurodivergent Nook Diane: Olive Branch Consulting A call for more comprehensive research and societal support for women navigating menopause with neurodivergence, emphasizing self-care, advocacy, and community support.

  2. Jul 14

    Neurodivergent Nook Ep12: Procrastination - Why Do I Find it so Hard to Start Things

    In this episode, Helen and Diane explore the intricate relationship between procrastination and neurodivergence, highlighting practical strategies to better support ourselves and others. Their candid discussion offers insight into the emotional and executive function challenges faced by autistic and ADHD adults. Key Topics Covered: The emotional rollercoaster of procrastination, including the role of adrenaline and dopamine in motivationHow creating self-imposed deadlines can sometimes backfire, leading to more stress and less productivityThe significance of task breakdowns, and why small, manageable tasks help overcome overwhelmThe impact of task aversion, such as avoiding phone calls or chores, and personalized coping strategiesCreative solutions like gamification and body doubling to boost task initiationThe importance of self-compassion and understanding that procrastination is a natural neurodivergent traitThe role of environmental modifications and support systems in facilitating task start and completionChallenging standard expectations for children and adults with neurodivergence and advocating for tailored support Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction to procrastination and neurodivergence challenges 00:55 - The difficulty of starting big tasks and feeling overwhelmed 01:28 - Dopamine hits and breaking down tasks into manageable steps 01:53 - The adrenaline rush near deadlines and motivation 02:07 - Why we need pressure to initiate tasks 02:29 - Creating self-imposed deadlines and their effectiveness 03:11 - The role of neurotransmitters like dopamine in executive functioning 03:39 - Diary methods and realistic planning challenges 04:02 - Overambitious to-do lists and self-criticism 04:28 - Personal motivation for work-related tasks vs personal tasks 05:24 - How procrastination impacts finances and daily life 06:13 - The "ADHD tax" and financial consequences of procrastination 06:24 - Prioritization and interest-based task motivation 06:49 - Distractions and time management in daily life 07:07 - The limitations of lists and reliance on mental tracking 07:49 - Supporting memory with conversations and partner help 08:17 - Body doubling and the importance of social support 08:37 - Task boredom and difficulty with mundane chores 09:56 - The emotional weight of procrastination and self-criticism 10:39 - Impact of task aversion on motivation 11:49 - Creative strategies like delegating or gamifying tasks 12:15 - The benefits of helping others to motivate oneself 12:31 - Using rewards and self-initiated breaks 13:14 - The importance of immediate rewards in maintaining motivation 13:24 - Treating oneself to special breaks or outings 15:05 - How shared responsibilities can ease procrastination 16:02 - The significance of self-compassion and re-framing tasks 16:33 - The messages we tell ourselves about laziness and worth 17:00 - Task switching as a core challenge in procrastination 18:32 - Supporting children with executive function challenges 20:03 - Supporting neurodivergent children with tailored scaffolding 20:37 - The importance of understanding and patience from adults 21:05 - Challenging societal expectations around productivity 22:09 - The systemic pressures in educational settings and support gaps Connect: Helen: Neurodivergent Nook Diane: Olive Branch Consulting

  3. Jul 7

    Neurodivergent Nook Ep11: Proprioception and Why you Struggle with Spatial Awareness

    Proprioception and neurodivergence: Understanding your position in the world In this episode of Neurodivergent Nook, Helen and Diane explore the often overlooked sense of proprioception—the body's awareness of its position and movement. They discuss real-life experiences, sensory challenges in daily routines, and practical insights for supporting neurodivergent individuals in various settings. Main Topics Covered What is proprioception and how does it differ among individualsPersonal stories of proprioceptive challenges, including driving and movementSensory regulation strategies, like hugging, body scans, and barefoot groundingThe impact of proprioceptive differences in school environments and workspacesPractical tips for respecting bodily autonomy through permission and sensory support In this episode Helen shares her difficulties with spatial awareness and driving, highlighting how proprioceptive differences affect safety and confidenceDiane discusses her experiences with sensory regulation, including outdoor vs indoor sensory inputThey emphasize the importance of asking permission before touch and tailoring sensory activities to individual needsExamples of effective accommodations, such as sensory breaks and inclusive design in workplacesThe significance of body awareness practices for emotional regulation and sleep Timestamps 00:00 - Introduction to proprioception & relevance for neurodivergent individuals 00:37 - Helen introduces personal proprioceptive challenges, especially in driving 02:13 - Driving anxiety linked to proprioceptive disconnects; learning to navigate edges 03:37 - Comparing personal experiences with driving success after practice 04:49 - Role of feedback and response in developing proprioceptive skills 05:36 - How sensory sensitivities impact everyday tasks, like parking and crowded spaces 06:39 - Differences in indoor versus outdoor sensory responses, and managing crowds 07:34 - Importance of physical contact, like hugs, in regulation and consent 08:40 - Supporting children and adults with proprioceptive needs through gentle input 09:20 - Respecting boundaries and autonomy during sensory activities 10:04 - Risks of uninvited touch for neurodivergent people 11:15 - School environments and need for tailored sensory strategies 12:02 - Impact of school routines on proprioceptive regulation and behavior 13:24 - "One size doesn't fit all" approach to sensory breaks in education 14:14 - How unregulated sensory systems influence behavior 15:03 - Creative workplace accommodations 16:09 - Simple sensory self-care practices, such as grounding barefoot and body scans 17:10 - The power of listening to your body's signals for regulation 18:13 - Practical grounding techniques to calm the nervous system before sleep 19:06 - The importance of footwear choices and sensory-friendly environments in schools 20:06 - Advocating for greater understanding and accommodation of proprioceptive needs 21:13 - Final tips: listening to our body / respecting sensory boundaries 21:46 - Closing thoughts on sensory awareness / neurodivergence Connect: Helen: Neurodivergent Nook Diane: Olive Branch Consulting This episode offers valuable insights into proprioception and how it shapes movement, regulation, and everyday confidence, while emphasising the importance of sensory awareness, compassion, and practical support to foster autonomy and well-being.

  4. Jun 30

    Neurodivergent Nook Ep10: Understanding Guilt and Shame as Neurodivergent Individuals

    Understanding Guilt and Shame as Neurodivergent People In this episode of Neurodivergent Look, Helen and Diane explore the complex emotions of guilt and shame, especially through the lens of neurodivergence. They share personal stories and professional perspectives, uncovering how these feelings manifest in everyday life and strategies to foster self-compassion. Key Topics Covered: The difference between guilt and shame and how they show up in neurodivergent experiencesPersonal anecdotes illustrating daily feelings of guilt regarding parenting, work deadlines, and social expectationsThe impact of perfectionism and the unrealistic pursuit of doing everything perfectlyHow childhood experiences and societal expectations intensify feelings of guilt and shameThe role of understanding one's neurodivergent diagnosis in managing emotional responsesThe importance of self-compassion and therapeutic work in healing chronic shameRecognizing and navigating feelings of guilt in professional settings, including public speakingThe long-term effects of guilt and shame stemming from childhood and caregiving rolesStrategies for fostering emotional regulation and resilience through awareness and education Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction to guilt vs. shame and their significance 01:13 - How guilt and shame manifest in professional roles as neurodivergent individuals 02:36 - Small daily guilt triggers: parenting and responsibilities 04:21 - Childhood roots of guilt and societal commentary 05:21 - The impact of perfectionism on feelings of guilt 06:20 - Challenging unrealistic standards and being kinder to oneself 07:40 - Pressure of performance and fears of failure in leadership roles 09:10 - Understanding misunderstandings and social norm differences 10:29 - Recalling childhood experiences of guilt and anxiety 11:33 - The discomfort of social judgment and public speaking 13:07 - The guilt of saying no and setting boundaries 14:07 - The difficulty of exposure and vulnerability in presentations 15:00 - Guilt related to childhood trauma and the role of caregiving in neurodivergence 16:43 - Parenting guilt and managing day-to-day interactions positively 17:04 - Imperfection in parenting and self-forgiveness 18:10 - Experiences of guilt among foster children and their lifelong impact 19:53 - The importance of therapy and support for healing childhood guilt 21:18 - Reflection on childhood responsibilities and their effects into adulthood 22:58 - The deep-seated desire to please authority figures from a young age 23:38 - The significance of awareness and understanding trauma and emotional triggers 24:28 - Recognizing sensory and exposure anxiety as sources of guilt 25:51 - The journey of self-compassion and emotional regulation 27:01 - Managing chronic shame and internal self-rejection 28:22 - The process of therapeutic insight and perspective shift 30:01 - Unpacking intense feelings with safe, compassionate space 31:11 - Role of societal and familial trauma in shaping guilt and shame 32:40 - Encouragement for ongoing self-awareness and seeking support Connect with: Helen: Neurodivergent Nook Diane: Olive Branch Consulting This episode offers valuable insights into understanding the sources of guilt and shame, emphasising the importance of compassion, awareness, and therapeutic support to foster healing and well-being.

  5. Jun 16

    Neurodivergent Nook Ep9: Quick Guide to Neurodivergent Self-Compassion

    Lightning Guide to Self-Compassion for Neurodivergent Mind This final episode in season 1, dives into the nuances of self-compassion from lived experience of neurodivergent individuals. Diane and Helen explore practical ways to nurture kindness inward, especially for those with autism and ADHD, emphasising the power of awareness, visualisation and neuroplasticity. Key Topics: The difference between self-care and self-compassionHow neurodivergent conditions influence self-talk and self-criticismPractical strategies: mindfulness, sensory anchors, and visualizationsRecognizing and challenging negative inner voicesThe impact of trauma and negative narratives on self-loveThe importance of community, relationships, and hope for healing In this episode: How to distinguish self-compassion from simple solitude or self-careThe role of the inner critic and ways to gently challenge itVisualizing a compassionate other—therapist, younger self, or symbolic figureThe importance of neuroplasticity in rewiring negative self-narrativesPractical tips: starting a gratitude journal, mindful breathing, and self-acceptanceThe effects of lifelong criticism and trauma on self-worth, with pathways to recovery Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction to neurodivergent perspectives on self-compassion 00:37 - Defining self-compassion versus self-care 01:15 - Forgiveness and kindness inward 02:31 - Recognizing unhelpful inner dialogue during walks 03:23 - Challenging negative thoughts and forgiving mistakes 04:40 - Supporting neurodivergent clients with critical inner voices 05:24 - Patience and incremental change in self-compassion practice 06:11 - Celebrating small wins and positive moments 07:38 - Impact of diagnosis on self-perception 08:42 - Visualizing and externalizing compassionate inner voices 09:52 - Sensory regulation and mindfulness practices 10:45 - The influence of childhood criticism on adult self-talk 12:33 - The importance of neuroplasticity and rewiring negative patterns 13:18 - Cognitive differences like alexithymia and implications for self-compassion 14:37 - Understanding how trauma impacts self-esteem over decades 16:24 - The long-term effects of criticism and emotional wounds 18:07 - Practical little daily acts for self-kindness 18:42 - The power of visual affirmations and mindfulness 20:23 - Building a gratitude practice and its benefits 21:24 - Challenges in forming new, positive habitual self-talk 22:45 - Hope, healing, and the ongoing process of rewiring the brain 24:36 - Supporting children and young people with trauma histories 25:50 - The importance of patience, love, and community in healing Connect with: Diane: Helen: Neurodivergent Nook Diane: Olive Branch Consulting

  6. Jun 9

    Neurodivergent Nook Ep8: Understanding Dyspraxia - Personal Stories and Educational Insights

    Understanding Dyspraxia: Personal Stories and Educational Insights In this episode of Neurodivergent Nook, Helen Neale and Diane share their personal experiences and professional perspectives on dyspraxia, also known as developmental coordination disorder. They explore how dyspraxia affects everyday life, particularly within educational settings, and discuss practical support strategies for children and teenagers. Key Topics Personal stories of dyspraxia and related clumsinessCommon misconceptions and stereotypes about dyspraxiaHow dyspraxia manifests in children and adultsChallenges faced in schools: PE, handwriting, and social pressuresStrategies for supporting neurodivergent children, including sensory interventionsThe importance of reasonable adjustments and fostering self-esteemImpact of secondary school transitions and lack of tailored supportPractical tools like typing versus handwriting for children with dyspraxiaThe role of educators and families in creating inclusive environments Timestamps 00:00 - Introduction to episode and guest background 00:15 - Personal experiences with dyspraxia 00:55 - Understanding what dyspraxia is and common misconceptions 01:40 - Dyspraxia's physical manifestations and injuries 02:09 - Dyspraxia and neurodivergence co-occurrence 02:34 - Social observations: clumsiness and menopause influence 02:47 - Funny stories highlighting dyspraxic traits 03:23 - Dyspraxia’s impact on motor coordination from childhood to adulthood 04:09 - How dyspraxia shows up in educational contexts 04:25 - Challenges in diagnosis and accessing support 05:10 - Dyslexia and dyspraxia in school: practical examples 06:01 - Embarrassments and misunderstandings around physical coordination 07:23 - Sensory exercises to illustrate dyspraxia’s physical challenges 08:16 - Need for understanding and reasonable adjustments in schools 09:20 - Energy drain and fatigue associated with motor difficulties 10:06 - The importance of teacher awareness beyond primary school 11:00 - Teenagers managing dyspraxia and social pressures 11:40 - Personal anecdotes about PE and coordination challenges 12:00 - Physical skills, running, and hypermobility 12:55 - Insights from trainers and body awareness 13:09 - Supporting children’s motor development at home and school 14:34 - Strategies for pacing and self-esteem building 15:18 - Effective school interventions: sensory trails and early support 16:19 - The benefits of targeted physical activities in school 17:04 - The over-reliance on sedentary classroom learning 18:19 - The potential of typing as an alternative to handwriting 19:03 - Technology and resource limitations in schools 20:44 - Autonomy, choice, and reducing shame for children 21:17 - The need for thoughtful planning in supporting children with dyspraxia 22:33 - Encouragement and positive support in schools and families 22:45 - Closing remarks and appreciation for listeners Connect with: Diane: Olive Branch Consulting Helen: Neurodivergent Nook Come join us on social media too: FacebookInstagramTikTok

  7. Jun 2

    Neurodivergent Nook Ep7: Grief after diagnosis

    This podcast episode explores the complex emotions surrounding diagnoses of neurodivergence, particularly focusing on grief, acceptance, and self-understanding. Helen and Diane share personal experiences, shedding light on the emotional journey many neurodivergent adults face upon diagnosis or self-identification. Key topics The emotional impact of diagnosis and the grieving processPersonal stories of grief, acceptance, and self-understanding in neurodivergenceThe influence of childhood experiences and societal understanding of neurodivergenceHow grief manifests differently in individuals and coping mechanismsThe importance of community, support, and self-compassion during this journeyInternalized ableism and challenges to accepting neurodivergent identitiesThe significance of finding a supportive tribe and shared experiences In this episode Diane shares her two-year grieving process after her ADHD diagnosis and how understanding changed her perspectiveHelen reflects on her own childhood memories and the grief associated with unrecognized neurodivergenceThey discuss the idea of "going to Holland instead of Italy," a metaphor for unexpected life paths after child diagnosisThe importance of allowing space for grief and self-acceptanceThe role of societal and internalized ableism in complicating the acceptance processPractical advice for navigating grief, self-understanding, and supportive relationships Timestamps 00:00 - Introduction to the episode and topics 00:30 - Diane’s initial response to her ADHD diagnosis 01:16 - Grieving the loss of previous self-understanding 01:44 - Childhood experiences influencing current perceptions 02:15 - How diagnosis prompted reflection and life changes 03:57 - The necessity and value of grief in acceptance 04:41 - Loss of friendships and the process of letting go 06:09 - Acceptance after autism diagnosis 06:31 - Reflecting on childhood and missing understanding 07:02 - Supporting neurodivergent children and trauma 08:39 - Expectations vs reality of parenthood 09:29 - The poem "Welcome to Holland" and life’s unexpected journey 10:19 - The guilt and self-criticism in grief 10:49 - Processing late diagnosis and masking 11:33 - Reflecting on childhood memories and strategies 12:20 - Grieving the young Helen’s challenges 13:08 - Realizing skills developed in adversity 13:59 - The importance of understanding oneself 14:38 - The internal struggle with self-concept and ableism 15:22 - Embracing new self-awareness 18:25 - Internalized ableism and self-identity 19:23 - The impact of diagnosis on self-perception 20:36 - The paradox of change and continuity after diagnosis 21:19 - The importance of support networks 22:26 - Obsessing over neurodivergence and grief 24:07 - Finding shared experiences and community 26:02 - Grieving childhood and unrecognized struggles 27:07 - Closing remarks and support encouragement Connect: Diane: Olive Branch Consulting Helen: Neurodivergent Nook Join us on social: FacebookInstagramTikTok

  8. May 26

    Neurodivergent Nook Ep6: A Quick Chat about Diagnosis

    In this episode of the Neurodivergent Nook podcast, Helen and Diane share their personal and professional journeys with diagnosis, exploring the pros, cons, and emotional impact for both children and adults. Whether you’re considering a diagnosis or supporting someone who is, these insights shed light on the complexities and importance of understanding neurodivergence. Key Topics Personal stories of late diagnoses of ADHD and autismThe process of questioning and family reflections leading to diagnosisThe emotional and identity challenges associated with late diagnosisThe significance of understanding diagnoses for self-compassion and supportThe impact of diagnoses on self-esteem and internal narrativesChallenges in advocating for assessments within educational systemsThe importance of diagnosis for accessing tailored support and understandingDiffering perspectives on seeking diagnosis among neurodivergent individualsHow society and medical models influence perceptions of diagnosisThe broader context of neurodiversity beyond labels and diagnoses Timestamps 00:00 - Introduction to the episode and topic of diagnosis 00:28 - Diane shares her journey to diagnosis of ADHD and autism 01:07 - Reflections on family history and late diagnosis 01:36 - Personal experiences supporting children and self-reflection 02:02 - Recognizing family members' neurodivergence 02:24 - The realization about autism and processing diagnoses 03:16 - Helen’s late diagnosis of ADHD and autism in her 50s 03:45 - The aha moment during counselling training about cognitive differences 04:28 - The importance of compassion and self-awareness 05:09 - The role of pressure and adrenaline in motivation 05:40 - Analyzing family and genetic links to neurodivergence 06:26 - Exploring family health history and neurodivergent traits 07:37 - Empowerment of acceptance after diagnosis 08:55 - Supporting children and students with diagnoses in education 09:25 - The benefits of early diagnosis for better support 11:12 - The importance of tailored support and societal inclusion 12:04 - Challenges in getting appropriate support and funding 13:20 - Supporting families through the diagnosis journey 14:40 - Emotional impacts on families and the importance of family support 16:18 - The ongoing struggles with educational funding and training 17:22 - Experiences of diagnosing children and teens 19:42 - Self-perception and internal voices post-diagnosis 20:12 - The importance of self-forgiveness and understanding 21:35 - The significance of emotional regulation and feeling 'not rubbish' 22:03 - Embracing human complexity and diversity beyond labels 23:04 - Reflecting on societal perceptions of neurodivergence 25:03 - The language of diagnosis versus self-understanding 26:04 - The impact of family perceptions and societal attitudes 28:32 - Raising awareness and taking time for self-reflection 29:04 - Closing remarks and encouragement for ongoing dialogue Connect with: Diane: Olive Branch Consulting Helen: Neurodivergent Nook Join us on socials: FacebookInstagramTikTok

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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
    2026
  • Episodes
    13
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Helen Neale and Diane Frainer
  • Show Website
    Neurodivergent Nook