The Hidden 20%

The Hidden 20%

The Hidden 20% is a charity founded by ADHD & autistic entrepreneur Ben Branson.Our mission is simple: To change how the world sees neurodivergence.No more stigma. No more shame. No more silence.1 in 5 people are neurodivergent.That’s 1.6 billion of us - yet too many are still excluded, misunderstood, or left without support.To break the cycle, we amplify voices, challenge myths, and keep showing up. Spotlighting stories, stats and hard truths. Smashing stereotypes through honest voices, creative campaigns and research that can’t be ignored.Every month, over 50,000 people turn to The Hidden 20% to feel safe, seen and to learn about brilliant brains.With your support, we can reach further, grow louder, and keep fighting for the 1 in 5 who deserve more.Join us at hidden20.org/donate.Become a monthly donor.Be part of our community where great minds think differently. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  1. The Hidden ADHD & Hypermobility Connection: What Your Body's Trying To Tell You

    1 DAY AGO

    The Hidden ADHD & Hypermobility Connection: What Your Body's Trying To Tell You

    In this episode, Ben sits down with consultant osteopath, author of The Meaning of Pain, and pioneer in understanding how body, brain, and pain are deeply connected. With over 25 years in clinical practice, Nick has worked with everyone from elite athletes to hedge fund traders, helping them manage pain, stress, and performance under pressure.  Together they unpack the link between Hypermobility, ADHD, and anxiety, why pain is often misunderstood, and how the body tells the story the brain can’t. From insights on interoception, stress and breathing, to myths about chronic pain and “bendy bodies,” Nick shares practical tools for tuning into your body, managing stress, and finding balance. Join us at hidden20.org/donate. _________ Host: Ben Branson Production Manager: Phoebe De Leiburné Video Editor: James Scriven Social Media Manager: Charlie Young Music: Jackson Greenberg Head of Marketing: Kristen Fuller The Hidden 20% is a charity founded by ADHD & autistic entrepreneur Ben Branson. Our mission is simple: To change how the world sees neurodivergence. No more stigma. No more shame. No more silence. 1 in 5 people are neurodivergent. That’s 1.6 billion of us - yet too many are still excluded, misunderstood, or left without support. To break the cycle, we amplify voices, challenge myths, and keep showing up. Spotlighting stories, stats and hard truths. Smashing stereotypes through honest voices, creative campaigns and research that can’t be ignored.Every month, over 50,000 people turn to The Hidden 20% to feel safe, seen and to learn about brilliant brains. With your support, we can reach further, grow louder, and keep fighting for the 1 in 5 who deserve more. Join us at hidden20.org/donate. Become a monthly donor. Be part of our community where great minds think differently. Brought to you by charity The Hidden 20% #1203348 ______________ Follow & subscribe… Website: www.hidden20.org Instagram / TikTok / Youtube / X: @Hidden20charity Ben Branson @seedlip_ben Nick Potter @backboneclinic 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.

    1h 15m
  2. The Neurodivergent Vet: Dyslexia, High Stress Work & The Power of Pets

    8 OCT

    The Neurodivergent Vet: Dyslexia, High Stress Work & The Power of Pets

    In this episode, Ben sits down with Rory the Vet - veterinary surgeon, TV presenter, author, and ambassador for the British Dyslexia Association. Diagnosed with dyslexia late during his veterinary studies, Rory is now a passionate advocate for early identification, school support, and embracing ND brains. They explore the realities of dyslexia in high-pressure work environments, the mental health crisis among vets, and the therapeutic (and often overlooked) role of animals in wellbeing. Rory also shares practical tips for revision and ND brains, insights from his charity work, and gives a playful way to find out how you might discover if your dog thinks differently…! CW: This episode contains references to mental health and suicide. Join us at hidden20.org/donate. _________ Host: Ben Branson Production Manager: Phoebe De Leiburné Video Editor: James Scriven Social Media Manager: Charlie Young Music: Jackson Greenberg Head of Marketing: Kristen Fuller The Hidden 20% is a charity founded by ADHD & autistic entrepreneur Ben Branson. Our mission is simple: To change how the world sees neurodivergence. No more stigma. No more shame. No more silence. 1 in 5 people are neurodivergent. That’s 1.6 billion of us - yet too many are still excluded, misunderstood, or left without support. To break the cycle, we amplify voices, challenge myths, and keep showing up. Spotlighting stories, stats and hard truths. Smashing stereotypes through honest voices, creative campaigns and research that can’t be ignored.Every month, over 50,000 people turn to The Hidden 20% to feel safe, seen and to learn about brilliant brains. With your support, we can reach further, grow louder, and keep fighting for the 1 in 5 who deserve more. Join us at hidden20.org/donate. Become a monthly donor. Be part of our community where great minds think differently. Brought to you by charity The Hidden 20% #1203348 ______________ Follow & subscribe… Website: www.hidden20.org Instagram / TikTok / Youtube / X: @Hidden20charity Ben Branson @seedlip_ben Rory The Vet @rorythevet 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.

    1h 3m
  3. Autism in Children Specialist: Q&A On Eduction, Diagnosis and Mental Health

    1 OCT

    Autism in Children Specialist: Q&A On Eduction, Diagnosis and Mental Health

    In this second part of the conversation, Ben is joined again by Cathy Wassell - CEO of Autistic Girls Network, founder of The Haven online school, and author. The focus shifts to solutions: changing education, understanding the hidden side of emotions, and tackling the mental health risks autistic girls face. Cathy brings clarity and compassion to topics like Alexithymia, Interoception, and the realities of school life. She also answers listener questions on EHCPs, burnout, school refusal, and diagnosis, before closing with her vision for a fairer future rooted in authenticity and the joy of autistic brains. CW: This episode contains references to mental health and suicide. NB: All information was relevant at the time of recording. _________ Host: Ben Branson Production Manager: Phoebe De Leiburné Video Editor: James Scriven Social Media Manager: Charlie Young Music: Jackson Greenberg The Hidden 20% is a charity founded by ADHD & autistic entrepreneur Ben Branson. Our mission is simple: To change how the world sees neurodivergence. No more stigma. No more shame. No more silence. 1 in 5 people are neurodivergent. That’s 1.6 billion of us - yet too many are still excluded, misunderstood, or left without support. To break the cycle, we amplify voices, challenge myths, and keep showing up. Spotlighting stories, stats and hard truths. Smashing stereotypes through honest voices, creative campaigns and research that can’t be ignored.Every month, over 50,000 people turn to The Hidden 20% to feel safe, seen and to learn about brilliant brains.With your support, we can reach further, grow louder, and keep fighting for the 1 in 5 who deserve more. Join us at hidden20.org/donate. Become a monthly donor. Be part of our community where great minds think differently. Brought to you by charity The Hidden 20% #1203348 ______________ Follow & subscribe… Website: www.hidden20.org Instagram / TikTok / Youtube / X: @Hidden20charity Ben Branson @seedlip_ben Cathy Wassell @autisticgirlsnetwork 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.

    59 min
  4. Supporting Autistic Girls: 'Mind Blowing' Statistic Impacting 92% Of Autistic Girls

    24 SEPT

    Supporting Autistic Girls: 'Mind Blowing' Statistic Impacting 92% Of Autistic Girls

    In this first of a two-part episode, Ben is joined by Cathy Wassell - CEO of Autistic Girls Network, founder of The Haven online school, and successful author. Neurodivergent herself and mum to two autistic children, Cathy is at the front line supporting autistic girls, women, and families, while campaigning for earlier diagnosis and a more up-to-date education system. With both lived experience and a Masters in Autism, Cathy brings honesty and expertise to a conversation that busts myths, challenges stigma, and shines a light on what’s really going on for autistic girls and non-binary young people today. 00:00 Introduction 1:17 On the Frontline: Supporting Girls with Autism 7:30 Autism: How It Presents in Boys VS Girls 10:00 Why Situational Mutism VS Selective Mutism? 13:03 Masking & Sensory Differences: The Danger of Gender Bias in Autism 19:46 Neurodivergent Children: Navigating the Secondary School Transition 23:07 ND Passionate Interests: Explained 26:33 Why Are Autistic Girls Diagnosed Later than Boys? 32:30 Parent Groups for ND Children 35:00 Autistic Girls and Navigating Puberty 38:57 If Cathy Had a Magic Wand: Her Vision for ND Change 43:28 Spotting Autism in Girls: Cathy’s Checklist 45:24 Coming Up in Part Two _________ Host: Ben Branson Production Manager: Phoebe De Leiburné Video Editor: James Scriven Social Media Manager: Charlie Young Music: Jackson Greenberg The Hidden 20% is a charity founded by ADHD & autistic entrepreneur Ben Branson. Our mission is simple: To change how the world sees neurodivergence. No more stigma. No more shame. No more silence. 1 in 5 people are neurodivergent. That’s 1.6 billion of us - yet too many are still excluded, misunderstood, or left without support. To break the cycle, we amplify voices, challenge myths, and keep showing up. Spotlighting stories, stats and hard truths. Smashing stereotypes through honest voices, creative campaigns and research that can’t be ignored.Every month, over 50,000 people turn to The Hidden 20% to feel safe, seen and to learn about brilliant brains.With your support, we can reach further, grow louder, and keep fighting for the 1 in 5 who deserve more. Join us at hidden20.org/donate. Become a monthly donor. Be part of our community where great minds think differently. Brought to you by charity The Hidden 20% #1203348 ______________ Follow & subscribe… Website: www.hidden20.org Instagram / TikTok / Youtube / X: @Hidden20charity Ben Branson @seedlip_ben Cathy Wassell @autisticgirlsnetwork 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.

    47 min
  5. Better Sleep Anywhere: Practical Tips for Neurodivergent Sleepers with Dr. Nerina Ramlakhan (Part Two)

    10 SEPT

    Better Sleep Anywhere: Practical Tips for Neurodivergent Sleepers with Dr. Nerina Ramlakhan (Part Two)

    In part two, Ben and sleep expert Dr. Nerina Ramlakhan dive into the practical side of sleep. They discuss how parents of neurodivergent children can better support rest, the most common questions on sleep, and why it’s the “golden thread” that unites everything. Nerina unpacks the science of dreams, the role of our senses, and shares practical tips - from sleeping in new places to strategies for emotional regulation. With warmth and wisdom, she reveals how small, intentional choices can transform the way we rest. CW: Mental health and abuse 00:00 Introduction 1:05 Sleep Tips for Parents of Neurodivergent Kids 2:46 The Corporate World & Creating a Safe Nervous System 3:31 The Most Common Questions About Sleep Answered 5:08 How to Change Unhealthy Sleep Behaviours 6:29 Sleep as the Golden Thread That Unites Everything 7:58 Why Do We Dream? The Science Behind It 9:12 How Long Do Dreams Actually Last? 10:16 Dreams vs. Nightmares: What’s the Difference? 11:07 How Sights, Sounds & Smells Impact Sleep 15:40 Touch & Sleep: Best Accessories for Better Rest 16:50 Dr. Nerina’s Top Tips for Sleeping in a New Place 19:43 Emotional Regulation & Setting Boundaries for Better Sleep 22:41 Dr. Nerina’s Green Dot Badge _________ 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 Branson Production Manager: Phoebe De Leiburné Video Editor: James Scriven Social Media Manager: Charlie Young Music: Jackson Greenberg Brought to you by charity The Hidden 20% #1203348 ______________ Follow & subscribe… Website: www.hidden20.org Instagram / TikTok / Youtube / X: @Hidden20charity Ben Branson @seedlip_ben Dr. Nerina Ramlakhan @drnerina 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.

    25 min
  6. Sleep, Neurodiversity & The Myths Holding Us Back with Neurophysiologist Dr. Nerina Ramlakhan (Part One)

    3 SEPT

    Sleep, Neurodiversity & The Myths Holding Us Back with Neurophysiologist Dr. Nerina Ramlakhan (Part One)

    In this first of a two-part episode, Ben sits down with Dr. Nerina Ramlakhan - a Neurophysiologist, Author and Sleep Expert with over 25 years experience in the field, whose work is shaped by both science and lived experience. She shares her personal journey, from early struggles with insomnia and being sectioned at 31, to later returning as a practitioner in the very same psychiatric unit. Nerina brings rare honesty and depth to the conversation about why humans sometimes find it difficult to sleep. Together they explore the hidden science of sleep, how neurodivergent brains seek safety and rest, and reveal why the choices we make every day can dramatically improve the quality of our sleep. CW: Mental health and abuse _________ 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 Branson Production Manager: Phoebe De Leiburné Video Editor: James Scriven Social Media Manager: Charlie Young Music: Jackson Greenberg Brought to you by charity The Hidden 20% #1203348 ______________ Follow & subscribe… Website: www.hidden20.org Instagram / TikTok / Youtube / X: @Hidden20charity Ben Branson @seedlip_ben Dr. Nerina Ramlakhan @drnerina 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.

    47 min

About

The Hidden 20% is a charity founded by ADHD & autistic entrepreneur Ben Branson.Our mission is simple: To change how the world sees neurodivergence.No more stigma. No more shame. No more silence.1 in 5 people are neurodivergent.That’s 1.6 billion of us - yet too many are still excluded, misunderstood, or left without support.To break the cycle, we amplify voices, challenge myths, and keep showing up. Spotlighting stories, stats and hard truths. Smashing stereotypes through honest voices, creative campaigns and research that can’t be ignored.Every month, over 50,000 people turn to The Hidden 20% to feel safe, seen and to learn about brilliant brains.With your support, we can reach further, grow louder, and keep fighting for the 1 in 5 who deserve more.Join us at hidden20.org/donate.Become a monthly donor.Be part of our community where great minds think differently. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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