The Hidden 20%

The Hidden 20%
  • 5.0 (22)
  • MENTAL HEALTH
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Help us rewrite the future for every mind. Join the movement and donate at hidden20.org/donate  The Hidden 20% is a UK-registered charity, podcast and movement rewriting the future for every mind Founded by autistic/ADHD entrepreneur Ben Branson, we find and share the truth about neurodiversity - catching society up and breaking the cycle of silence, shame and suffering. Through research, stories and science we share the truth - making the hidden visible. Each week, we speak with leading experts and lived experience voices to uncover the true scale and potential of neurodiversity - challenging myths, stereotypes and outdated systems. While others talk awareness, we demand recognition, representation and reform. Every month, more than 100,000 people turn to The Hidden 20% to learn, connect and feel seen. With your support, we can reach further, grow louder and keep amplifying the truth. Great minds think differently. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  1. ADHD Media Narratives & Misinformation: What's Really Happening?

    2D AGO

    ADHD Media Narratives & Misinformation: What's Really Happening?

    In this episode, Ben is joined by Dr Tony Lloyd, former CEO of the ADHD Foundation, for a conversation that steps back and looks at the bigger picture of neurodiversity at a moment when the landscape is rapidly changing. Now retired, Tony reflects on decades at the forefront of ADHD and neurodiversity advocacy, and why we’re still asking the wrong questions. They explore why more people are recognising themselves than ever before, and the tension between medical models and the idea of thinking differently. From SEND systems and long waiting lists to public narratives and stigma, Tony shares what he believes still isn’t working and where real progress is happening. This is a conversation about where we are now, what needs to change, and why the future of neurodiversity may look very different to its past. 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 00:00 Introduction 1:03 The Current Neurodiversity Landscape: ADHD, Autism & Society 3:50 The Global Neurodiversity Identity Crisis Explained 5:50 “We Are Everywhere”: The Rise of Neurodivergent Voices 9:44 The Future of Neurodiversity: Why People Are No Longer Hiding 20:02 Medical Model vs Neurodiversity: Disorder or Difference? 27:00 SEND System & ADHD/Autism Reports: What’s Broken? 32:10 Why Neurodiversity Should Be Seen as Opportunity, Not Deficit 42:03 De-stigmatising ADHD & Autism: What Gives Tony Hope 48:06 ADHD & Autism Waitlists: Advice for Those Still Waiting 50:18 The Role of Neurodivergent Public Figures & Advocacy 55:16 Regressive Narratives vs Being Yourself: Courage & Kindness 1:02:22 Dr Tony Lloyd’s Green Dot Badge The Hidden 20% is a charity founded by AuDHD 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 Tony Lloyd 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 5m
  2. ADHD & Autism at Work: Masking, Burnout and What Employers Still Get Wrong

    MAR 11

    ADHD & Autism at Work: Masking, Burnout and What Employers Still Get Wrong

    In this episode, Ben is joined by Kelly and Hester Grainger, the married co-founders of Perfectly Autistic. Together they work with major organisations to build workplaces that actually work for neurodivergent people but as Kelly (AuDHD) and Hester (ADHD) explain, inclusion isn’t about a single training session or a handful of adjustments. They reflect on careers shaped by masking, burnout and trying to fit systems that weren’t designed with neurodivergent people in mind. Together they unpack why so many workplaces unintentionally exclude ND employees, what genuinely neuroinclusive organisations do differently, and why awareness has to go beyond a one-off training session. They also share the more personal side: exploring their own careers, why Hester once had over 30 jobs, and what it’s like running a business together as a neurodivergent couple. If you’ve ever felt exhausted by work environments that don’t quite fit your brain, this episode will help you see why - and what could change. 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 00:00 Introduction 1:26 Neurodiversity at Work | Hester & Kelly Grainger on ADHD, Autism & Corporate Consulting 2:19 The #1 Thing Employers Need to Understand About Neurodiversity in the Workplace 3:50 Supporting Neurodivergent Employees at Scale: What Actually Works 7:26 Which Companies Are Asking for Neurodiversity Support at Work? 8:31 ADHD & Autism at Work: Common Challenges and Simple Workplace Adjustments 19:15 Who Is Responsible for Neurodiversity in the Workplace? 23:37 Why Neurodiversity Training Can’t Be a One-Off Session & The Power Of Listening & Curiosity at Work 26:38 Neurodiversity Labels at Work: Why Language Around Autism & ADHD Matters 33:16 Undiagnosed ADHD or Autism at Work: Your Rights as an Employee 37:40 What Does The Dream Neuroinclusive Employer Look Like? 42:30 Neurodiversity & Recruitment 49:34 Running a Business Together as a Neurodivergent Couple 50:40 Kelly’s AuDHD Diagnosis: Telling Employers About ADHD & Autism 53:48 Creating Safe Conversations About Neurodivergence & Advocating For Yourself 57:43 Neurodivergent Workers Are Everywhere: Why Companies Need to Adapt 59:30 What Do “Best in Class” Neuroinclusive Companies Do Differently? 1:06:06 What Neurodivergent Candidates Should Look for in an Employer 1:08:22 Practical Ways Employers Can Create Neuroinclusive Workplaces 1:09:50 If Hester & Kelly Had a Magic Wand: The One Thing They’d Change About Workplaces 1:19:26 Kelly & Hester’s Green Dot Badge The Hidden 20% is a charity founded by AuDHD 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 Hester Grainger @hestersvibe linkedin.com/in/hestergrainger Kelly Grainger linkedin.com/in/kelly-grainger-9601b43 www.perfectlyautistic.co.uk 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 22m
  3. Autism Dadcast: The Untold Reality of Profound Autism Parenting

    MAR 4

    Autism Dadcast: The Untold Reality of Profound Autism Parenting

    Today Ben is joined by Andy and Gaz, hosts and founders of The Autism Dadcast Podcast, which has quickly become a vital voice for parents raising profoundly autistic children - gaining tens of thousands of followers and millions of views in just weeks. They share candid insights about parenting, grief, and the day-to-day realities of life with children who have profound autism, from navigating meltdowns and stimming to advocating in school and in public. Andy and Gaz reflect on the moments that may look small to an outsider - a smile, a new word, a shared laugh - but are in reality huge victories that shape their children’s lives and their family’s world. This episode offers quietly powerful perspectives on empathy, resilience, and the deeply human side of raising children with profound autism. 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 00:00 Introduction 1:03 Why Andy & Gaz Created the Autism Dadcast Podcast 4:44 Parenting Profoundly Autistic Children: Gaz & Andy’s Lived Experience 16:40 Processing Grief & Parenting Expectations for ND Children 23:40 Public Reactions to Autistic Meltdowns, Stimming & Neurodivergence 28:57 Being an Autism Dad: Advocating & Speaking Up on Parenting Challenges 33:29 Home Life vs School Masking: Supporting Autistic Kids Authentically 35:44 Understanding the Term “Profoundly Autistic” in Daily Life 41:36 Lessons Learned: How Andy & Gaz Navigate ND Parenting 47:06 Adjusting Life Around Autism: What Feels “Normal” Now? 54:12 The Future of Autism Dadcast & Growing Community Impact 56:06 Top 3 Parenting Tips for Raising Autistic Children Effectively 58:10 Surprising Insights About Being an Autistic Parent 1:03:33 Andy & Gaz’s Green Dot Badges The Hidden 20% is a charity founded by AuDHD 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 The Autism Dadcast with Andy & Gaz @autismdadcast 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 6m
  4. ADHD Assessment Truths: Who Can Diagnose, What to Expect & Why It Matters

    FEB 25

    ADHD Assessment Truths: Who Can Diagnose, What to Expect & Why It Matters

    In part two of Ben’s conversation with Dr Shyamal Mashru, they unpack what actually makes a good ADHD assessment - and why so many people are still waiting, misdiagnosed, or left without answers. Dr Shyamal, an NHS Consultant Psychiatrist and Medical Lead for Adult ADHD, explains what happens inside a thorough assessment, who is qualified to diagnose ADHD, and why emotional dysregulation is so often overlooked.  Together, they explore NHS vs private pathways, co-occurring conditions like autism and RSD, and why ADHD rarely shows up in neat, textbook ways. We hope this episode brings clarity to a process that can often feel stressful, and inaccessible. If you’re questioning ADHD, on a waiting list, or trying to understand what good care really looks like, this conversation is for you. 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 00:00 Introduction 01:12 Who Can Diagnose ADHD in the UK? 04:25 ADHD Assessment Options: NHS vs Private Explained 11:20 ADHD Assessments Outside the UK: What’s Different? 13:00 Why ADHD Assessments Are Complex & Often Siloed 20:14 ADHD & Reduced Life Expectancy: What the Research Shows 24:20 What Makes a Good ADHD Assessment? 29:25 ADHD at School vs University: Missed Support 32:50 RSD, Relationships & Emotional Regulation Flags 34:16 ADHD & Daily Life: Hobbies, Money, Sleep 41:02 When ADHD Gets Misdiagnosed - and Why 47:15 Autism + ADHD: What If You Suspect Both? 55:06 The Missing Piece in ADHD Diagnosis: Emotional Dysregulation 59:00 Dr Shyamal’s Green Dot Badge The Hidden 20% is a charity founded by AuDHD 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 Dr Shymal Mashru @harrowhealthcic Harrow Health offers bespoke NHS community outpatient services across London, plus fast adult ADHD assessment and treatment across England. For more information please visit: https://adhdrighttochoose.com/ 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 1m
  5. ADHD & Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria: The Emotional Pain No One Explains

    FEB 18

    ADHD & Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria: The Emotional Pain No One Explains

    In this episode, Ben sits down with Dr Shyamal Mashru, Consultant Psychiatrist and Medical Lead for Adult ADHD, for a clear and compassionate deep dive into Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria (RSD). Often misunderstood or dismissed as being “too sensitive,” RSD is explored here as a real, neurological experience - one that can hijack rational thought, flood the body with emotional pain, and quietly shape relationships, work, and self-worth. Dr Shyamal explains what RSD is (and isn’t), how it shows up differently across people, and why ADHD brains may be especially vulnerable. They unpack the science, the role of trauma and hormones, why RSD isn’t currently in the DSM, and what actually helps when rejection hits hard. If rejection feels overwhelming, confusing, or deeply personal - this conversation offers clarity, relief, and language for what you may have been carrying alone. 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 00:00 Introduction 01:00 Dr Shyamal Mashru’s ADHD Background & Clinical Work 03:15 What Surprises Clinicians About ADHD Assessments 04:41 Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria Explained: What RSD Is & Why It Hurts 09:16 RSD Coping Mechanisms: Shutdown, People-Pleasing & Avoidance 11:44 Is It RSD or Something Else? How to Tell the Difference 15:05 The Neuroscience of RSD: Why Rational Thinking Switches Off 17:27 RSD in Romantic Relationships & Attachment 21:33 How to Support a Partner With Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria 22:50 How Aware Is Society of RSD? 24:38 RSD, Hormones & ADHD: Menstrual Cycle, Perimenopause & Menopause 26:33 Is There an Upside to RSD? Emotional Depth & Sensitivity 29:56 Can Non-ADHD People Experience RSD? 31:55 RSD vs Trauma & Fear of Failure 34:46 Why RSD Is More Than “Not Handling Rejection” 36:15 Why Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria Isn’t in the DSM 40:00 How RSD Shows Up in Children 41:29 Early Signs & Patterns Clinicians Look For 42:59 How Common Is RSD in ADHD — and When It Appears 46:20 Treating RSD: Therapy, Medication & Regulation 56:18 The One Thing Dr Shyamal Would Change About RSD Awareness The Hidden 20% is a charity founded by AuDHD 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 Dr Shymal Mashru @adhdhealthclinic www.adhdhealthclinic.co.uk 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
  6. Autism, Eating Disorders & Elite Sport: Connie Hayes on Cycling, Regulation & Identity

    FEB 11

    Autism, Eating Disorders & Elite Sport: Connie Hayes on Cycling, Regulation & Identity

    Semi-Professional cyclist, Connie Hayes, joins Ben for a deeply personal conversation about growing up autistic, dyslexic and dyspraxic - and how cycling became both a regulator and a place of safety. Connie reflects on the early signs of autism that were missed, the self-esteem battles that came with puberty, hormones and friendships, and the long road to understanding her neurodivergence. She shares how sport - particularly cycling - helps regulate her nervous system, why environment matters so deeply for autistic performance, and how dyspraxia shows up at an elite level. Together, they also explore autism in women, eating disorders in sport, disclosure, and the urgent need for more inclusive practices across the industry. If you’re curious about neurodiversity, sport and identity, this episode is for you! 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 00:00 Introduction 01:05 Connie Hayes: The Autistic, Dyslexic & Dyspraxic Professional Cyclist 02:20 Early Signs of Autism & Being Missed 03:07 How Cycling Regulates Connie’s Autistic Brain 04:41 Understanding Autism Through Sport (Post-Diagnosis) 05:57 Designing Environments Where Autistic Athletes Thrive 08:05 Autism, Dyslexia & Dyspraxia Diagnosis Journey: Self-Esteem, Puberty & Friendships 10:42 Dyspraxia in Elite Cycling: Coordination, Balance & Training 12:28 Fighting for School Support & Being Left With Questions 16:59 The Right University & Autism in Women: “It Saved My Life” 25:53 Identity: Seeing Herself as an Autistic Woman 26:38 Society’s Expectations vs Autistic Females 27:19 Neurodiversity in Sport: What We Get Wrong 29:21 Autism, Sport & Eating Disorders 39:43 Why Autism Can Be a Strength in Professional Cycling 46:45 Women’s Cycling Through an Autism Lens 55:06 Disclosing Autism: Regret, Relief & Reality 58:38 Is Cycling Good for Neurodivergent People? 01:02:07 Connie’s Green Dot Badge The Hidden 20% is a charity founded by AuDHD 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 Connie Hayes @connie_hayes 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 4m
  7. Undiagnosed Autism in Women: Masking, Misdiagnosis & The Cost of Being Missed

    FEB 4

    Undiagnosed Autism in Women: Masking, Misdiagnosis & The Cost of Being Missed

    In part two of this conversation, neurobiologist and author of The Lost Girls of Autism, Gina Rippon, rejoins Ben to focus on the women autism research left behind. Picking up where part one ends, Gina traces how early brain science, diagnostic bias and cultural assumptions combined to hide autistic women in plain sight. She unpacks why autism was framed as a “male condition,” how masking became a survival strategy, and the real cost of decades of late or missed diagnosis. They explore the neuroscience behind prediction and masking, the forgotten female figures in autism’s history, and why the language of “over-diagnosis” risks oversimplifying a much more complex history of under-recognition . Gina also reflects on autistic bullying, and what meaningful change in diagnosis and research could look like next. If you’ve ever wondered why so many autistic women are only being seen now - or why you still don’t feel seen - this conversation is for you. We hope it offers some clarity, context, and hope. 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 00:00 Introduction 01:00 Gina Rippon’s Career in Autism & Neuroscience 02:00 The Brain Questions That Changed Autism Research 05:12 Autism & the Brain: Predictive Coding Explained 08:11 Why So Many Autistic Women Were Missed 09:09 The Forgotten Female Psychiatrist Who Identified Autism Decades Earlier 16:52 Autism Diagnosis Ratios: Female vs Male Explained 18:02 How Many Autistic Women Have We Missed? The “Overdiagnosis” Myth 24:02 Masking in Autistic Women: The Breakthrough Moment 29:30 The Reality of Bullying for Autistic Girls 31:18 The Cost of Late Autism Diagnosis in Women 35:59 Autism, Hormones & PMDD: What Research Still Lacks 37:00 Debunking the “Refrigerator Mother” Myth 40:15 What Neuroscience Tells Us About the Autistic Brain 44:11 Neurodivergent vs Neurodiversity: Why Language Matters 46:00 The Future of Autism Diagnosis in Women 47:54 What Gives Gina Rippon Hope 50:45 Gina Rippon’s Top Tips for Autistic Women 51:44 Gina’s Green Dot Badge The Hidden 20% is a charity founded by AuDHD 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 Gina Rippon https://www.ginarippon.com/ 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.

    54 min
  8. What We Get Wrong About the Brain: Neurobiologist Gina Rippon on Myths, Gender & Neurodiversity

    JAN 28

    What We Get Wrong About the Brain: Neurobiologist Gina Rippon on Myths, Gender & Neurodiversity

    In part one of this two-part conversation, neurobiologist and author of The Gendered Brain and The Lost Girls of Autism - recently awarded the British Psychological Society’s Popular Science Book Prize - Gina Rippon joins Ben to unpack what we really know, and don’t know, about the human brain. From left-brain/right-brain myths to the rise of gendered brain science, Gina explains why many of the ideas we’ve grown up with simply don’t stand up to scrutiny. Drawing on decades of research, she explores how brains change across the lifespan, how experience actively shapes neural pathways, and why no two brains - neurodivergent or not - are ever the same. They dive into alpha rhythms, brain plasticity, ageing, and the cultural bias baked into neuroscience, including why the idea of distinctly “male” and “female” brains has caused more confusion than clarity. 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 00:00 Introduction 00:57 Why Gina Rippon Became Obsessed With the Brain 2:54 What Science Really Knows About the Neurodivergent Brain 7:18 Brain Waves Explained: Alpha Rhythms & Neurodivergence 10:24 Debunking Common Myths About the Neurodivergent Brain 12:00 Left Brain vs Right Brain: Does It Actually Exist? 17:14 The Best Analogy for How Brains Really Work 18:17 Why London Taxi Drivers’ Brains Change 19:30 How the Brain Changes With Age 21:46 Brain Plasticity, Careers & Learning Over Time 23:27 Why Every Brain Is Different And Neurodiversity 26:45 Gender Bias in Neuroscience: “Neuro Trash” Research 27:53 Is There Such a Thing as a Male or Female Brain? 35:18 The Real Impact of Gendered Brain Science 40:56 Neurodivergence, Gender & Brain Differences Explained 44:07 Moving Beyond Gendered Brains to Human Brains 45:22 What Are Thoughts, Really? 48:40 Why Gina Decided To Write “The Lost Girls of Autism” The Hidden 20% is a charity founded by AuDHD 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 Gina Rippon https://www.ginarippon.com/ 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.

    52 min
See All (113)

Trailer

5
out of 5
22 Ratings

About

Help us rewrite the future for every mind. Join the movement and donate at hidden20.org/donate  The Hidden 20% is a UK-registered charity, podcast and movement rewriting the future for every mind Founded by autistic/ADHD entrepreneur Ben Branson, we find and share the truth about neurodiversity - catching society up and breaking the cycle of silence, shame and suffering. Through research, stories and science we share the truth - making the hidden visible. Each week, we speak with leading experts and lived experience voices to uncover the true scale and potential of neurodiversity - challenging myths, stereotypes and outdated systems. While others talk awareness, we demand recognition, representation and reform. Every month, more than 100,000 people turn to The Hidden 20% to learn, connect and feel seen. With your support, we can reach further, grow louder and keep amplifying the truth. Great minds think differently. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Information

  • Creator
    The Hidden 20%
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    113
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © The Hidden 20%
  • Show Website
    The Hidden 20%

You Might Also Like