When I Want To… But Can’t

The Holidays Can Be Hard

In this episode, we talk about why the holidays can be overwhelming for neurodivergent folks. We cover the social norms that drain us, how to prepare ahead of time, ways to advocate in the moment, and why rest and recovery after gatherings are essential (not optional). If this season already feels like a lot, you’re not alone. Website: https://www.neurodivergentnotbroken.com/ [https://www.neurodivergentnotbroken.com/] Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/neurodivergentnotbroken/ [https://www.instagram.com/neurodivergentnotbroken/] Substack: https://substack.com/@neurodivergentnotbroken [https://substack.com/@neurodivergentnotbroken]

When Sensory Needs Don't Match

What happens when one of us needs quiet and another needs noise? In this episode, I share what our home looked like five years ago, before I understood sensory differences through a neurodivergent lens—and how that understanding changed everything. I talk about: * Shifting from “behaviors” to needs * How language and modeling matter more than perfection * Managing expectations when sensory profiles collide * The both-and of overstimulation and needing input * Real-life things that help (headphones, breaks, “I’m overdone right now”) It’s about seeing what’s beneath the behavior and responding with respect, compassion, and care, not shame. I’d love to learn a little more about who’s here and what matters most to you. Fill out the Community Survey here: https://www.neurodivergentnotbroken.com/community-survey [https://www.neurodivergentnotbroken.com/community-survey] If you like to read, come on over to our Substack: https://substack.com/@neurodivergentnotbroken [https://substack.com/@neurodivergentnotbroken]

The Impact of Diagnosis on Mental Health | Autism & ADHD

Content warning: Mentions of suicidality Skip times : 26:19–26:44 and 40:56–42:21. In this very vulnerable episode , Scott and I talk about his autism diagnosis and what it’s meant for his mental health. He shares how validating a diagnosis can be, the real-world challenges of navigating work with ADHD and autism, and why clear communication and context matter so much in relationships. Scott opens up about sensory management, emotional highs and lows, and why we’re sharing our story—to help someone else feel less alone. We acknowledge that formal assessment access is unequal—self-diagnosis is valid, and your lived experience matters. If you’re in the U.S. and need support, call or text 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline). If outside the U.S., please reach out to your local crisis line or someone you trust. How you can support us: Subscribe on Substack: https://substack.com/@neurodivergentnotbroken [https://substack.com/@neurodivergentnotbroken] Follow on IG:https://www.instagram.com/neurodivergentnotbroken/ [https://www.instagram.com/neurodivergentnotbroken/] Share this episode! Join our Group Support Space: https://calendly.com/neurodivergentnotbroken/neurodivergent-not-broken-support-space [https://calendly.com/neurodivergentnotbroken/neurodivergent-not-broken-support-space]

When I Want To… But Can’t

Sometimes you just don’t have the capacity for the things you want to do. In this episode I talk about Spoon Theory, metaphor created by Christine Miserandino to explain what it’s like to live with chronic illness, disability, or limited energy. If you've ever felt guilty for canceling plans, saying no, or needing rest, this one's for you. Read the written version on Substack:https://open.substack.com/pub/neurodivergentnotbroken/p/when-i-want-to-but-cant?r=8ndp2&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web&showWelcomeOnShare=false [https://open.substack.com/pub/neurodivergentnotbroken/p/when-i-want-to-but-cant?r=8ndp2&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web&showWelcomeOnShare=false]

Embracing Neurodiversity in Education with Kati Ranae

I chat with Kati Ranae about neurodiversity in education! We touch on: * ADHD/autism * Hyperlexia & gestalt language processing (GLP) * Ehlers–Danlos syndrome (EDS) * Diagnosis barriers, and medication + mental health. She highlight why universal accommodations and safe classrooms help everyone, and how masking, faculty roles, and family support shape real student experiences. Press play for practical, compassionate, first-hand insights. CW/TW (non-graphic): bullying; ED history; self-harm/SI; PTSD; anxiety. Skip: 13:40–16:30; ~19:20–24:20; ~23:56–24:20. Follow Neurodivergent, Not Broken on Instagram :https://www.instagram.com/neurodivergentnotbroken/ [https://www.instagram.com/neurodivergentnotbroken/] Read the latest blog on Substack: https://substack.com/@neurodivergentnotbroken?utm_campaign=profile&utm_medium=profile-page [https://substack.com/@neurodivergentnotbroken?utm_campaign=profile&utm_medium=profile-page]