The Neurodivergent Experience Jordan James and Simon Scott

"My relationship with food is incredibly complex. I hate food that is unpredictable."
In this episode of the Neurodivergent Experience, Jordan James and Simon Scott discuss their complex relationships with food. They share their experiences with 'fussy' eating, body dysmorphia, and trauma-related food aversions. They also talk about the impact of neurodivergent traits on their eating habits, such as demand avoidance and hypersensitivity. They highlight the unpredictability of food textures and flavours for neurodivergent people and the preference for routine and familiarity.
Takeaways

Neurodivergent individuals often have complex relationships with food, influenced by factors such as picky eating, body dysmorphia, and trauma-related aversions.Neurodivergent traits, such as demand avoidance and hypersensitivity, can impact eating habits and food preferences.Childhood experiences with food, including restrictions and negative associations, can shape an individual's relationship with food as an adult.Developing a healthier relationship with food may involve exploring new flavours, managing sensory sensitivities, and addressing underlying emotional issues.It is important to be mindful of how we talk about food and body image, avoiding negative language and promoting self-acceptance as understanding and supporting neurodivergent individuals' unique food preferences and challenges can promote their overall well-being.Parents should avoid labelling their children as 'fussy eaters' and instead create a positive and supportive environment to encourage trying new foods.
Chapters
00:00 RTN Sponsor
01:43 The Complexity of Neurodivergent Relationships with Food
06:26 Childhood Experiences and Food Challenges
09:20 Food as Comfort and Trauma Response
13:15 Struggles with Eating and Starvation
25:15 Negative Associations and Social Exclusion
27:10 Conclusion and Support for Neurodivergent Food Preferences
32:10 Navigating Unpredictability: Food Textures and Flavours for Neurodivergent People
45:06 Childhood Memories and Associations with Food
50:42 Supporting Neurodivergent Children in Developing Healthy Eating Habits
52:09 The Impact of Food on Neurodivergent Individuals' Cognitive Abilities
53:07 Promoting Positive Body Image and Mindful Eating for Neurodivergent Individuals
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Traveling as a neurodivergent person can present unique challenges, such as dealing with sensory issues and knowing your rights for special assistant and accommodations.
In this episode of the Neurodivergent Experience, Jordan and Simon discuss their recent travel experiences as neurodivergent individuals. They share their personal stories of navigating airports, dealing with special assistance, and the challenges they faced during their journeys. They talk about their fears and anxieties while flying, as well as the strategies they use to cope, the importance of special assistance and accommodations for neurodivergent individuals when traveling, the difficulties and stress that can come with navigating public transportation, especially in unfamiliar cities. The conversation also touches on the most interesting countries visited, the impact of travel on photography, and the cultural differences experienced in different parts of the world.
Takeaways

Special assistance and accommodations are available for neurodivergent individuals when traveling, and it's important to take advantage of them.Understanding one's neurodivergent identity and seeking support can help alleviate the difficulties and stress of traveling. Neurodivergent individuals may have specific needs and preferences when it comes to travel, such as meticulous planning and having alternative plans.Traveling to events and destinations that align with personal interests can enhance the travel experience for neurodivergent individuals.Different countries and regions offer unique cultural experiences and landscapes that can be both awe-inspiring and challenging for neurodivergent individuals.
Chapters
00:00 RTN Sponsor
01:18 Traveling as a Neurodivergent Person
24:08 The Restlessness of Long Journeys
31:09 Navigating the Anxieties of Flying
45:18 Challenges of Crowded Trains
50:06 Importance of Special Assistance and Accommodations
57:16 Stressful Experiences in Unfamiliar Cities
01:08:12 Nature vs. Cities: Preferences for Travel
01:14:06 Exploring Interesting Destinations
01:23:09 Cultural Differences in Travel Experiences
Get an Autism and ADHD assessment in the UK with https://www.rtnmentalhealthsolutions.com/ Use the Discount Code RTN23 when you make your initial enquiry through the RTN website or the website portal.
Instagram: @theneurodivergentexperiencepod
Facebook: The Neurodivergent Experience
YouTube: @TheNeurodivergentExperience

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"Growing up in an undiagnosed family made me feel different from others and lead to a sense of being strange or weird!"
This episode of the Neurodivergent Experience discusses growing up in an undiagnosed family. Sophie James, Jordan's daughter, joins to share her experience about feeling different from other families, the challenges of navigating the school playground, the lack of support from the school, and the importance of bonding through daddy-daughter days. Sophie, shares her perspective on growing up with an undiagnosed autistic father and the challenges they faced as a family and reflect on the changes that occurred after Jordan's autism diagnosis and the newfound understanding and acceptance it brought them.
Takeaways

Struggles and successes in school can vary for neurodivergent individuals, and it's important to focus on the strengths and abilities rather than just the deficits.Neurodivergence can impact family dynamics, and understanding and support from parents can make a significant difference in a child's experience. Neurodivergent experiences can vary, with some individuals being more external and emotional, while others are more internal and repetitive.It is important to lower unrealistic expectations and standards in friendships to foster healthier relationships at school.Having a diagnosis can provide validation and support, but it is not always necessary for personal growth and understanding
Chapters
00:00 RTN Sponsor
01:18 Introducing Sophie James
08:50 Independence and Struggles in Primary School
16:23 Challenges in the School Playground
32:02 Impact of Neurodivergence on Family Dynamics
36:15 Growing Up with an Undiagnosed Autistic Father
48:25 The Shift in Understanding and Acceptance
55:30 The Impact of Not Having A Filter
01:00:11 Understanding Each Other's Differences
01:07:41 Self-Awareness and Acceptance
Get an Autism and ADHD assessment in the UK with https://www.rtnmentalhealthsolutions.com/ Use the Discount Code RTN23 when you make your initial enquiry through the RTN website or the website portal.
Instagram: @theneurodivergentexperiencepod
Facebook: The Neurodivergent Experience
YouTube: @TheNeurodivergentExperience
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Society's perspective on autism has shifted, but there is still work to be done to combat misinformation and stigma.
In this episode, Jordan James and Simon Scott interview Steve Silberman, the author of NeuroTribes. They discuss the impact of Silberman's book on the neurodivergent community and the importance of embracing neurodiversity. They delve into the history of autism and the misconceptions surrounding Hans Asperger, the legacy of autism, the shift in society's perspective on autism and the importance of finding support within the neurodivergent community. Silberman shares his perspective on the medical model of autism and we explore the impact of the book 'NeuroTribes' in creating advocates for neurodiversity, the concept of the autism spectrum, the need for more frequent and dedicated opportunities for autistic children to engage in their special interests, as these interests can lead to meaningful and successful lives.
Takeaways
The history of autism reveals the mistreatment and discrimination faced by neurodivergent people.The medical model of autism focuses on deficits and dysfunctions, but a more inclusive and positive perspective is needed.Neurodiversity is a natural variation of human neurology and should be embraced and accommodated.The autism spectrum is not linear but encompasses a range of neurodivergent experiences.Special interests are a vital part of the lives of autistic individuals and should be embraced and nurtured.Finding support within the neurodivergent community can be invaluable for both autistic individuals and their families.
00:00 RTN Sponsor
01:12 Introduction
03:14 The Impact of Steve Silberman's Book, NeuroTribes, on the Neurodivergent Community
09:54 The History of Autism and the Progress of Neurodiversity
36:33 Embracing Neurodiversity
37:31 The Autism Spectrum
42:57 Unpacking the History of Autism Diagnosis
44:22 From Deficits to Strengths
49:32 Challenging Ableism and Cure Culture
53:48 The Power of Special Interests
01:08:10 Support and Accommodation
Steve Silberman: Award-winning science writer, author of NeuroTribes: The Legacy of Autism and the Future of Neurodiversity (Avery 2015).
Website: https://www.stevesilberman.com/
Book: NeuroTribes
Get an Autism and ADHD assessment in the UK with https://www.rtnmentalhealthsolutions.com/ Use the Discount Code RTN23 when you make your initial enquiry through the RTN website or the website portal.
Instagram: @theneurodivergentexperiencepod
Facebook: The Neurodivergent Experience
YouTube: @TheNeurodivergentExperience
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Navigating romantic relationships can be challenging for neurodivergent individuals.
In this episode of the Neurodivergent Experience, Jordan James and Simon Scott discuss their experiences with romantic relationships. They share stories from their teenage years including the challenges of navigating dating and intimacy, the impact of past traumas and the importance of being true to oneself in a relationship, particularly for neurodivergent individuals. Jordan discusses how meeting his wife, Sylvia, changed everything. They formed a deep connection and understood each other on a level that no one else did and attributes their successful relationship to both of them being neurodivergent. He expresses gratitude for having Sylvia in his life and credits her for helping him better himself. Simon reflects on his past relationships and how they were influenced by his neurodivergent traits and shares his experiences of being taken advantage of and feeling misunderstood in past relationships.
Takeaways

Being true to oneself is important in building a healthy and fulfilling relationship but past traumas can impact how we approach and experience them.Dating and intimacy can be particularly difficult for neurodivergent individuals, who may struggle with social cues and communication.Building a relationship without masks and being open and honest can lead to a stronger connection, being in a relationship with someone who is also neurodivergent can lead to a deep connection and understanding.
00:00 Introduction and Setting the Topic
07:42 Navigating Dating and One Night Stands
26:30 Difficulties with Initiating Intimacy
35:21 Building Relationships while Masking
44:11 Confidence and Attracting Attention
57:36 Finding Connection and Understanding in a Relationship
01:05:32 The Power of Gratitude in a Successful Relationship
01:15:26 Reflecting on Past Relationships for Personal Growth
Whether you're Neurodivergent yourself, a friend, family member, or simply curious about this extraordinary way of experiencing the world, this podcast is your guide to unravelling The Neurodivergent Experience.
Instagram: @theneurodivergentexperiencepod
Facebook: theneurodivergentexperience
Youtube: @TheNeurodivergentExperience

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Art and creative expression can be a powerful way for neurodivergent individuals to communicate and share their unique experiences.
In this conversation, Jordan James and Simon Scott talk to Bret Malley, a recently diagnosed neurodivergent individual, and father of an autistic son. They discuss Brett's journey of self-discovery, his experiences as a filmmaker and artist, talk about his upcoming documentary film, The Divergent Gift: Unboxing Autism, led by Bret and starring Jordan and the challenges he and his son face in the US education system.
The conversation explores the need for flexibility and multiple ways of learning in education, particularly for neurodivergent individuals, and emphasize the importance of listening to parents and understanding the unique strengths and weaknesses of each child.
The upcoming documentary film 'The Divergent Gift; Unboxing Autism, led by Brett Mallie, aims to amplify the voices of the neurodivergent community and promote acceptance and inclusion.
Takeaways
The education system often fails to accommodate the diverse learning styles and needs of neurodivergent students, leading to feelings of frustration and isolation.There is a need for a shift in the education system to prioritize individuality, autonomy, and support for neurodivergent students. Education should provide flexibility and multiple ways of learning to accommodate the diverse needs and interests of students, particularly neurodivergent individuals.Teachers should listen to parents and take the time to understand each child's unique strengths and weaknesses in order to provide appropriate support.Storytelling, animation, and creativity can be powerful tools for expressing the neurodivergent experience and promoting understanding and acceptance.
00:00 Introduction and Background
14:10 Art as a Form of Communication
35:50 The Need for a Shift in Education
44:34 Flexibility and Autonomy in Education
51:48 The Importance of Listening to Parents
01:08:00 The Power of Documentary Film in Advocacy
Bret Malley: Educator, Speaker, Professional photographer, author of Adobe Master Class; Advanced Compositing in Adobe Photoshop CC, and all around Photoshop magician specializing in surreal, epic, and imaginative image creation.
Website: https://www.bretmalley.com/
Documentary: https://www.thedivergentgift.com/
Please consider supporting this incredible project: https://fundraise.givesmart.com/form/88kj6Q?vid=14zjxq
Whether you're Neurodivergent yourself, a friend, family member, or simply curious about this extraordinary way of experiencing the world, this podcast is your guide to unravelling The Neurodivergent Experience.
Instagram: @theneurodivergentexperiencepod
Facebook: theneurodivergentexperience
Youtube: @TheNeurodivergentExperience
Get bonus content on Patreon
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.