The Sensitive and Neurodivergent Podcast with Julie Bjelland

Julie Bjelland, LMFT
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Welcome to the Sensitive and Neurodivergent podcast (formerly The HSP Podcast) with Julie Bjelland, LMFT, a space for sensitive and neurodivergent individuals to explore emotional well-being, self-compassion, and empowerment. Join Julie and her guests as they discuss topics like managing sensitivity, overcoming shame, coping with a world not set up for us, and finding joy. The podcast offers insights and tools to help you navigate the world as your authentic self, build resilience, and connect with a supportive, global community. Perfect for those seeking validation, growth, and connection.

  1. The Secret Loneliness of Sensitive and Neurodivergent Gen Z with Lara Rodwell

    2D AGO

    The Secret Loneliness of Sensitive and Neurodivergent Gen Z with Lara Rodwell

    In this deeply heartfelt and validating episode, guest host Carol Roesler welcomes Lara Rodwell, founder of The Lonely Club and journalist, for an empowering conversation about autism, sensitivity, loneliness, and self-discovery. Lara shares her personal journey through misdiagnosis, the loneliness that often follows, and how self-identifying as a sensitive autistic neurotype became a turning point toward self-acceptance. Together, Carol and Lara explore the challenges women face when they don’t fit the outdated models of autism diagnosis, and how finding accurate understanding can feel like a “homecoming.” Takeaways The origins and mission of The Lonely Club—creating safe spaces for young neurodivergent people. Lara’s experience with misdiagnosis through the NHS and her later validation through Julie Bjelland’s autism assessment. The loneliness many sensitive and autistic women experience when their traits are misunderstood. The concept of the sensitive autistic neurotype as defined by Julie Bjelland. Turning perceived “weaknesses” (like sensitivity or introversion) into strengths and creative power. The generational struggle of being told “you’re too sensitive.” How external diagnostic criteria often overlook women and non-male expressions of autism. Advocacy for sensitive autistic university students and young adults navigating social challenges. Reframing “lazy” or “avoidant” behaviors as signs of burnout, masking, or perfectionism—not lack of motivation. The importance of self-compassion and self-advocacy in the neurodivergent journey. Lara Rodwell is the founder of The Lonely Club, an online and in-person community designed to reduce loneliness among young neurodivergent adults. Through writing, events, and upcoming sensory-friendly drop-in spaces, Lara provides connection, safety, and belonging for those who often feel unseen. She can be reached at lara@thelonelyclub.co.site. Follow her work: Website & Blog: https://lararodwell.journoportfolio.com/myportfolio/Lara's Post: Why Misdiagnosis Keeps Sensitive Autistic Women Lonely — and How Self-Discovery Changes EverythingCarol Roesler is co-author of the new children’s book series, The Adventures of Niko, the Highly Sensitive Dog and co-hosts “Intuitive Parenting” events inside the Sensitive Empowerment Community to support caregivers of sensitive little ones. As a volunteer Children's Librarian leading pre-K through 5th-grade reading groups, she often wished for books with characters that reflected the unique traits of bright, sensitive children. An introverted child, Carol’s favorite books were her best friends, inspiring the character Buttercup. Buttercup’s passion for research was inspired by Carol’s daughter, whose literary explorations discovered the unique, joyful dance of the blue-footed booby. This inspired the wonderfully extroverted character Blueberry. Carol is thrilled to collaborate with Julie in creating characters that celebrate being their authentic, unique selves! You can reach her at ambassador@sensitive-empowerment.com. Get the book at juliebjelland.com/childrens-books Links mentioned:The Sensitive Empowerment community⁠Autism Assessments for Adults with Julie Bjelland, LMFT

    52 min
  2. A Caring Conversation To Support HSPs with Dr. Judith Orloff

    NOV 6

    A Caring Conversation To Support HSPs with Dr. Judith Orloff

    In this heart-centered conversation, Dr. Judith Orloff returns to the podcast to talk with host Carol Roesler about the gifts of being a highly sensitive person, her new children’s book The Highly Sensitive Rabbit, the role of empathy in healing, and practical tools for emotional regulation, self-love, and hope in a chaotic world. The interview was recorded live on a full moon inside the Sensitive Empowerment Community. 🗣️ Key Topics Discussed ✨ The inspiration behind The Highly Sensitive Rabbit and how it helps children and adults embrace emotional sensitivity 🐇 Why Aurora the rabbit represents every sensitive child (and the inner child in adults) 📚 Behind-the-scenes stories from Dr. Orloff’s book tour and live readings with children ❤️ How sensitivity is a superpower—not a flaw—and why it must be protected, not shamed 🧘 Empathy practices for regulating overwhelm and emotional intensity 🧠 The heart vs. the mind: how they work together and how to lead from the heart 💔 Healing from childhood messages like “you’re too sensitive” or “crybaby” 🛑 The importance of boundaries for highly sensitive people (and why the skunk in the book teaches them!) 🌕 Rituals of connection, including sending heart energy to others in pain 🔬 How to handle skeptics who dismiss intuition, energy work, or emotional sensitivity 🕊️ The Dalai Lama’s connection to Dr. Orloff’s newest book, The Genius of Empathy🌍 Finding hope and joy even when the world feels overwhelming Books Mentioned The Highly Sensitive Rabbit — Children’s book for sensitive kids and adults The Genius of Empathy — Includes foreword by the Dalai Lama The Empath’s Survival Guide 365 Days of Self-Empathy Positive Energy Empath Empowerment Cards (Oracle deck)

    54 min
  3. Unmasking the Sensitive Autistic Neurotype: Life-Changing Discoveries for Women with Julie Bjelland, LMFT

    OCT 13

    Unmasking the Sensitive Autistic Neurotype: Life-Changing Discoveries for Women with Julie Bjelland, LMFT

    In this heartfelt solo episode, Julie Bjelland, LMFT, shares profound insights from her work with women discovering their autistic identity later in life. Many sensitive women spend decades feeling different, masking their struggles, and being misdiagnosed by outdated, male-centered assessments. Julie introduces the concept of the Sensitive Autistic Neurotype—a strengths-based way of understanding autism that validates lived experience and removes the stigma of “disorder.” Through stories from her assessment work, Julie explores themes of masking, burnout, chronic health struggles, misdiagnoses, and the life-changing relief that comes with finally being understood. She also highlights the critical role of acceptance in childhood and the connection between sensitivity, autism, ADHD, and trauma. This episode is a must-listen for late-identified autistic women, sensitive and neurodivergent individuals, and practitioners seeking to better support their clients. Discover how self-understanding can bring healing, self-compassion, and the energy to thrive. More Info Read : Why Outdated Autism Assessments Are Harming Sensitive Women and High-Masking Adults by Julie Bjelland, LMFT Learn more about The Sensitive Autistic Neurotype BIO Julie Bjelland, LMFT, is a psychotherapist, author, and founder of the Sensitive Empowerment Community. She specializes in supporting highly sensitive and neurodivergent people, with a focus on the growing recognition of late-discovered autism in women. Julie coined the term Sensitive Autistic Neurotype to describe a strengths-based way of understanding sensitivity and autism, helping people shift from self-criticism to self-compassion. Through her global courses, podcast, writings, and professional trainings, Julie has supported thousands of sensitive and neurodivergent people in over 190 countries. Her mission is to create a world where sensitivity and neurodivergence are seen as strengths to be celebrated. Learn more at JulieBjelland.com and join the supportive global community at SensitiveCommunity.com.

    20 min
  4. Why Self-Employment Tests HSPs and How It Sets You Free

    OCT 9

    Why Self-Employment Tests HSPs and How It Sets You Free

    Do you feel called to work for yourself? In this episode, Willow explores the real path of self-employment for HSPs. The challenges, the breakthroughs, and the deep inner transformation that happens when you follow your truth. Discover why self-employment often tests us in the very areas we’re here to transform, how to stay true to yourself when things get hard, and why authenticity is the greatest freedom of all. If you’ve ever wondered whether you’re ready to take the leap, or what it really means to turn your sensitivity into your strength, this episode will help you see your path more clearly. Bio & Links - Willow McIntoshWillow is a facilitator, international speaker, and founder of Inluminance. He specialises in facilitating Highly Sensitive People (HSPs), to recognise their innate High Sensory Intelligence® An ability to perceive truth of self in others and the energetic patterns at play in their environment. His area of expertise is training HSPs to align their work and purpose with these unique perceptual gifts. Having facilitated change and transformation in thousands of HSPs for more than 9 years, he is committed to bringing the importance of the trait into mainstream awareness globally. Learn more at www.inluminance.com or book your free discovery call here - https://inluminance.com/book-a-call/

    12 min
  5. Celebrating Six Years of Connection in the Sensitive Empowerment Community

    OCT 6

    Celebrating Six Years of Connection in the Sensitive Empowerment Community

    In this special anniversary episode of the Sensitive and Neurodivergent Podcast, guest host Carol Roesler leads a heartfelt celebration of the Sensitive Empowerment Community’s six-year anniversary. Joined live by members from around the world, Carol shares reflections, community stories, and heartfelt messages of gratitude for Julie Bjelland, LMFT — founder of the community and podcast. Together, they honor the deep connections, personal growth, and life-changing experiences that have blossomed within this safe space for highly sensitive and neurodivergent individuals. Through live interactions, personal stories, and Julie’s guiding wisdom, this episode shines a light on what it truly means to belong, be seen, and thrive as a sensitive soul. Links and resources mentioned in this episode: The Sensitive Empowerment CommunityJulie's Courses for The Sensitive & NeurodivergentFree webinars WITH JULIE for the sensitive & Neurodivergent The Adventures of Niko, the Highly Sensitive DogPodcast Episode: We Were Never Meant to Fit In with Julie Bjelland and Willow McIntoshPodcast Episode: Embracing Sensitivity: A Conversation with Dr. Judith OrloffPodcast Episode: Intuitive Parenting Creating Cozy & Joyful Spaces for Sensitive Children to Thrive

    57 min
  6. Embracing Sensitivity: A Conversation with Dr. Judith Orloff

    SEP 29

    Embracing Sensitivity: A Conversation with Dr. Judith Orloff

    In this enlightening conversation, guest host Carol Roesler and Dr. Judith Orloff explore the profound themes of sensitivity, empowerment, and the importance of nurturing sensitive children. They discuss Dr. Orloff's new book, 'The Highly Sensitive Rabbit,' which serves as a guide for both children and adults to embrace their sensitivities as superpowers. The dialogue emphasizes the need for support, understanding, and the role of sensitive individuals in creating a better world. Through personal anecdotes and insights, they highlight the significance of self-care, boundaries, and the journey of reparenting oneself to foster a loving and accepting environment for sensitive souls. Takeaways Sensitivity is often misunderstood as weakness.Empowered sensitive individuals can change the world.Support is crucial for sensitive children.Quiet time is essential for sensitive souls.Setting boundaries is a vital skill for empaths.Reparenting ourselves helps heal past wounds.Children need to be celebrated for their uniqueness.Sensitivity can be a superpower when embraced.Empaths often feel the emotions of others deeply.Creating safe spaces for sensitive children is important. Links mentioned in this episode: ⁠Dr. Orloff’s website: www.drjudithorloff.com. Here you can find the link to her newsletter that we spoke about as well as her book tour for The Highly Sensitive Rabbit, which is available to preorder before its release date of Oct 7. The Adventures of Niko, the Highly Sensitive Dog: A book series for sensitive & Neurodivergent childrenAn interview with Niko and his friendsThe Sensitive Empowerment communityEpisode 130: The Healing Power of Being an Empath with Dr. Judith Orloff For more episodes and resources from Julie Bjelland, visit ⁠JulieBjelland.com

    57 min
  7. Intuitive Parenting Creating Cozy & Joyful Spaces for Sensitive Children to Thrive with Carol Roesler & Carolina Mariposa

    SEP 19

    Intuitive Parenting Creating Cozy & Joyful Spaces for Sensitive Children to Thrive with Carol Roesler & Carolina Mariposa

    In this special episode of the Sensitive and Neurodivergent Podcast, guest hosts Carol Ressler and Carolina Mariposa explore how parents and caregivers can create safe, supportive spaces for sensitive and neurodivergent children during life transitions—like moving to a new home, starting school, or welcoming a sibling. They share real-life examples of cozy nooks, sensory-friendly play areas, and calming rituals that help children regulate their emotions and feel secure. From crash pads and weighted blankets to twinkle lights, flower essences, and joyful pops of color, this heartfelt conversation offers practical, creative ideas to nurture sensitive kids. Whether you’re a parent, caregiver, or professional, you’ll find inspiration for making home a sanctuary that meets the unique needs of sensitive children—and yourself. Links mentioned in this episode: The Adventures of Niko, the Highly Sensitive Dog Ted Talk: Where Joy Hides and How to Find It  Carolina Mariposa’s website Carolina's email For more episodes and resources from Julie Bjelland, visit JulieBjelland.com

    49 min
  8. What Makes Us Different Is What Connects Us Most with Willow McIntosh

    SEP 3

    What Makes Us Different Is What Connects Us Most with Willow McIntosh

    So many sensitive and neurodivergent people know the pain of trying to fit in, hiding parts of themselves to feel accepted. In this episode, we explore how our true power lies not in blending, but in embracing the unique way we see, feel, and sense the world. You’ll be invited to recognize your sensitivity as a natural design, a gift meant to connect you more deeply with life, others, and yourself. About Your Hosts Willow McIntosh is a facilitator, international speaker, and founder of Inluminance. He specialises in facilitating Highly Sensitive People (HSPs), to recognise their innate High Sensory Intelligence® An ability to perceive truth of self in others and the energetic patterns at play in their environment. His area of expertise is training HSPs to align their work and purpose with these unique perceptual gifts. Having facilitated change and transformation in thousands of HSPs for more than 9 years, he is committed to bringing the importance of the trait into mainstream awareness globally. Learn more at inluminance.com Julie Bjelland, LMFTJulie is a psychotherapist, author, and founder of Sensitive Empowerment. She specializes in high sensitivity and the Sensitive Autistic Neurotype, offering compassionate support through consultations, adult autism assessments, self-paced courses, and a global community. Her work includes a top-ranked podcast reaching listeners in 190 countries and a globally followed blog. Learn more at JulieBjelland.com

    11 min
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Welcome to the Sensitive and Neurodivergent podcast (formerly The HSP Podcast) with Julie Bjelland, LMFT, a space for sensitive and neurodivergent individuals to explore emotional well-being, self-compassion, and empowerment. Join Julie and her guests as they discuss topics like managing sensitivity, overcoming shame, coping with a world not set up for us, and finding joy. The podcast offers insights and tools to help you navigate the world as your authentic self, build resilience, and connect with a supportive, global community. Perfect for those seeking validation, growth, and connection.

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