Unapologetically Sensitive

Friendship, Boundaries, and Other Olympic Sports for Autistic Brains   Patricia gets real about friendship challenges, navigating communication mismatches, and how OCD and autistic wiring can shape our relationship expectations. She shares a behind-the-scenes peek into her new podcast project, the insecurities that surfaced while collaborating with her co-host, and how unexpected moments of validation reminded her that what she brings to the table is more than enough.   HIGHLIGHTS    ·      Patricia plans to release the podcast bi-monthly to avoid burnout. ·      Insecurities can arise when starting new projects, but validation helps. ·      Everyone has unique strengths, even when they feel insecure about them. ·      Communication in friendships can be challenging, especially for neurodivergent individuals. ·      It's important to recognize that others' actions are not always about us. ·      Self-reflection is can be helpful in understanding relationships. ·      Sharing experiences can have a profound impact on listeners. ·      Validation from others can remind one of the importance of one's work. ·      It's okay to change and evolve over time, both personally and professionally. ·      Setting boundaries is essential for maintaining comfort and well-being.    SOUND BITES ·      "It's not about me." ·      "It's okay for things to change." ·      "What I have to share is enough." ·      "You’re not for everybody and everyone’s not for you." ·      "Reliability, plans, and clear communication are high values of mine and they calm my nervous system." ·      "We can’t know what we don’t know."    SENSITIVITY IS NOTHING TO APOLOGIZE FOR; IT’S HOW YOUR BRAIN IS WIRED You are not broken. You were shaped by systems that weren’t built for you. You deserve rest, joy, and support exactly as you are.   CHAPTERS (please add time for addition of introduction) 00:00 Introduction and Podcast Changes 01:30 Navigating Insecurities and Trusting Strengths 05:30 Friendship Dynamics and Communication 09:14 Self-Reflection and Personal Growth 14:23 Validation and Impact of Sharing Experiences 21:17 Recognizing and Embracing Strengths PODCAST HOST Patricia Young (she/her) was a Licensed Clinical Social Worker for over 17 years, but she is now exclusively providing coaching. She knows what it’s like to feel like an outcast, misfit, and truthteller.  Learning about the trait of being a Highly Sensitive Person (HSP), then learning she is AuDHD with a PDA profile, OCD and RSD, helped Patricia rewrite her history with a deeper understanding, appreciation, and a sense of self-compassion.  She created the podcasts Unapologetically Sensitive and Unapologetically AuDHD to help other neurodivergent folks know that they aren’t alone, and that having a brain that is wired differently comes with amazing gifts, and some challenges.  Patricia works online globally working individually with people. LINKS   To write a review in itunes: 1. click on this link https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/unapologetically-sensitive/id1440433481?mt=2 [https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/unapologetically-sensitive/id1440433481?mt=2] 2. select “listen on Apple Podcasts” 3. chose “open in itunes” 4. choose “ratings and reviews” 5. click to rate the number of starts 6. click “write a review”   Website--www. [http://www.patriciayounglcsw.com]unapologeticallysensitive.com Facebook-- https://www.facebook.com/Unapologetically-Sensitive-2296688923985657/ [https://www.facebook.com/Unapologetically-Sensitive-2296688923985657/] Closed/Private Facebook group Unapologetically Sensitive-- https://www.facebook.com/groups/2099705880047619/ [https://www.facebook.com/groups/2099705880047619/] Instagram-- https://www.instagram.com/unapologeticallysensitive/ [https://www.instagram.com/unapologeticallysensitive/] Youtube-- https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCOE6fodj7RBdO3Iw0NrAllg/videos?view_as=subscriber [https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCOE6fodj7RBdO3Iw0NrAllg/videos?view_as=subscriber] Tik Tok--https://www.tiktok.com/@unapologeticallysensitiv e-mail-- unapologeticallysensitive@gmail.com Show hashtag--#unapologeticallysensitive Music-- Gravel Dance by Andy Robinson www.andyrobinson.com [http://www.andyrobinson.com]

Breaking Down Internalized Ableism  Summary In this conversation, Patricia explores the concept of internalized ableism, particularly among neurodivergent individuals. She discusses how societal stigma and expectations can lead to negative self-perceptions and feelings of inadequacy. Patricia shares personal experiences and insights on how internalized ableism manifests in various aspects of life, including relationships, self-acceptance, and the pressure to conform to neurotypical standards. She emphasizes the importance of unlearning these hurtful beliefs and embracing one's neurodivergent identity with compassion and understanding.   HIGHLIGHTS   ·       Internalized ableism is the unconscious adoption of negative beliefs about oneself due to societal stigma. ·       Neurodivergent individuals often feel pressure to conform to neurotypical standards, which can lead to trauma. ·       Resting is a valid need and should not be seen as a failure. ·       Asking for accommodations is essential for well-being and should not induce guilt. ·       The concept of 'high functioning' can be harmful and does not reflect true capabilities. ·       Time agnosia is a common experience for neurodivergent individuals. ·       Self-compassion is crucial in overcoming internalized ableism. ·       Relationships can be affected by the fear of being a burden. ·       Unlearning internalized ableism involves recognizing and challenging societal expectations. ·       Embracing neurodivergence includes acknowledging strengths and practicing self-acceptance. 115 SPECIFIC POINTS DISCUSSED 1.     How internalized ableism shows up in everyday life o   Masking, pushing through burnout, or feeling "lazy" when you're resting. 2.     Messages we absorbed growing up o   From school, parents, peers, or media about being "too much," "distracted," "weird," or "wrong." 3.     Perfectionism and people-pleasing as survival o   How needing to be “better” or “easy to manage” is often rooted in internalized shame. 4.     The trap of “not disabled enough” or “faking it” o   How we invalidate our own struggles because we don't “look” stereotypically disabled. 5.     ADHD, autism, OCD & “high-functioning” narratives o   The myth of being “high functioning” and how it reinforces ableist expectations. 6.     Feeling guilt for needing accommodations or rest o   That voice that says “you’re being difficult” when you ask for what you actually need. 7.     Shame around executive dysfunction o   Struggling to start tasks, follow through, or manage time — and blaming yourself. 8.     Rejecting your own needs to fit in o   Forcing eye contact, avoiding stimming, hiding rituals, not using noise-canceling headphones in public, etc. 9.     The pressure to be “independent” all the time o   How internalized capitalism + ableism equates needing support with being a failure. 10.  Comparing yourself to neurotypical peers ·       Especially in productivity, relationships, or emotional regulation. 11.  “If I can do it sometimes, I should always be able to” myth ·       Inconsistent ability = inconsistent worth? Nope. Talk about spoon theory and fluctuating capacity. 12.  How OCD-specific traits are misunderstood or mocked ·       And how that seeps into how you see yourself (e.g., feeling “crazy,” “irrational,” or “a burden”). 13.  Internalized ableism in dating & relationships ·       Fear of being too much, too emotional, or too rigid — and minimizing yourself as a result. 14.  How healing looks like reclaiming your needs unapologetically ·       Self-accommodation, boundaries, rest, and neurodivergent joy as rebellion. 15.  Relearning self-compassion and identity pride ·       Ending with hope: unmasking, connecting with community, and defining success on your own terms.    SOUND BITES ·       "Rest is resistance." ·       "You are not broken." ·       "You deserve rest, joy, and support."    SENSITIVITY IS NOTHING TO APOLOGIZE FOR; IT’S HOW YOUR BRAIN IS WIRED You are not broken. You were shaped by systems that weren’t built for you. You deserve rest, joy, and support exactly as you are.    CHAPTERS (please add time for addition of introduction) 00:00 Understanding Internalized Ableism 02:40 The Impact of Societal Expectations 05:31 Navigating Personal Experiences with Internalized Ableism 08:18 The Struggle for Accommodations 10:55 Executive Dysfunction and Inconsistent Abilities 14:01 The Pressure of Productivity 16:53 Feeling 'Not Enough' in Neurodivergence 19:43 Unlearning Internalized Ableism 22:27 Building Self-Compassion and Acceptance  PODCAST HOST Patricia was a Licensed Clinical Social Worker for over 17 years, but she is now exclusively providing coaching. She knows what it’s like to feel like an outcast, misfit, and truthteller.  Learning about the trait of being a Highly Sensitive Person (HSP), then learning she is AuDHD with a PDA profile, OCD and RSD, helped Patricia rewrite her history with a deeper understanding, appreciation, and a sense of self-compassion.  She created the podcast Unapologetically Sensitive to help other neurodivergent folks know that they aren’t alone, and that having a brain that is wired differently comes with amazing gifts, and some challenges.  Patricia works online globally working individually with people, and she teaches Online Courses for neurodivergent folks that focus on understanding what it means to be a sensitive neurodivergent. Topics covered include: self-care, self-compassion, boundaries, perfectionism, mindfulness, communication, and creating a lifestyle that honors you LINKS Rest Is Resistance: Free yourself from grind culture and reclaim your life by Tricia Hersey. Neurodivergent Online Course-- https://unapologeticallysensitive.com/neurodivergent-online-courses/ [https://unapologeticallysensitive.com/neurodivergent-online-courses/] Receive the top 10 most downloaded episodes of the podcast-- https://www.subscribepage.com/e6z6e6 [https://www.subscribepage.com/e6z6e6]  To write a review in itunes: 1. click on this link https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/unapologetically-sensitive/id1440433481?mt=2 [https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/unapologetically-sensitive/id1440433481?mt=2] 2. select “listen on Apple Podcasts” 3. chose “open in itunes” 4. choose “ratings and reviews” 5. click to rate the number of starts 6. click “write a review”   Website--www. [http://www.patriciayounglcsw.com]unapologeticallysensitive.com Facebook-- https://www.facebook.com/Unapologetically-Sensitive-2296688923985657/ [https://www.facebook.com/Unapologetically-Sensitive-2296688923985657/] Closed/Private Facebook group Unapologetically Sensitive-- https://www.facebook.com/groups/2099705880047619/ [https://www.facebook.com/groups/2099705880047619/] Instagram-- https://www.instagram.com/unapologeticallysensitive/ [https://www.instagram.com/unapologeticallysensitive/] Youtube-- https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCOE6fodj7RBdO3Iw0NrAllg/videos?view_as=subscriber [https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCOE6fodj7RBdO3Iw0NrAllg/videos?view_as=subscriber] Tik Tok--https://www.tiktok.com/@unapologeticallysensitiv e-mail-- unapologeticallysensitive@gmail.com Show hashtag--#unapologeticallysensitive Music-- Gravel Dance by Andy Robinson www.andyrobinson.com [http://www.andyrobinson.com]

Some Challenges in Neurodivergent Communication Summary In this episode, Patricia discusses the challenges faced by AuDHDers and other neurodivergent individuals in communication, particularly regarding lack of responding to messages. She explores the concept of internalized ableism and how it affects self-perception and interactions. Patricia shares personal experiences and insights on the importance of flexibility in relationships and the need for authenticity in communication. The conversation emphasizes the struggles of neurodivergent individuals, including executive functioning challenges, and the significance of self-acceptance and understanding in navigating social situations.   HIGHLIGHTS It's not uncommon for neurodivergent individuals to struggle with responding to messages. ·       Internalized ableism can affect how we perceive our struggles. ·       Flexibility in relationships is helpful for understanding each other's challenges. ·       People often have their own timeframes for communication. ·       It's important to give ourselves permission to not always follow plans. ·       Authenticity in communication can foster better relationships. ·       Neurodivergent individuals often attract other neurodivergent friends and partners with similar experiences. ·       Comparison can lead to feelings of inadequacy among neurodivergent individuals. ·       Being open about our struggles can help others feel validated. ·       Sensitivity is a natural part of being neurodivergent and should be embraced.  SOUND BITES "I have so much room for that." "We have a hard time taking breaks." "It's hard for me to not compare." SENSITIVITY IS NOTHING TO APOLOGIZE FOR; IT’S HOW YOUR BRAIN IS WIRED ·      You have a right to be joyful, forgetful, ableist, non-ableist, stimmy, non-stimmy.  ·      You're not for everyone. Everyone's not for you.   ·      It's okay to push through.  ·      It's okay to rest.      It's okay to compare.  ·      It's okay to trust that how you show up in the world is fine and all you have to do is be you and who is meant to be in your life will be there and the people that aren't, will drop away.   CHAPTERS 00:00 Navigating Communication Challenges 06:35 Understanding Internalized Ableism 11:39 The Struggles of Neurodivergence 17:24 The Importance of Authenticity in Relationships PODCAST HOST Patricia Young, she/her was a Licensed Clinical Social Worker for over 17 years, but she is now exclusively providing coaching. She knows what it’s like to feel like an outcast, misfit, and truthteller.  Learning about the trait of being a Highly Sensitive Person (HSP), then learning she is AuDHD with a PDA profile, OCD and RSD, helped Patricia rewrite her history with a deeper understanding, appreciation, and a sense of self-compassion.  She created the podcast Unapologetically Sensitive, and Unapologetically AuDHD to help other neurodivergent folks know that they aren’t alone, and that having a brain that is wired differently comes with amazing gifts, and some challenges.  Patricia works online globally working individually with people, and she teaches Online Courses for neurodivergent folks that focus on understanding what it means to be a sensitive neurodivergent. Topics covered include: self-care, self-compassion, boundaries, perfectionism, mindfulness, communication, and creating a lifestyle that honors you LINKS Neurodivergent Online Course-- https://unapologeticallysensitive.com/neurodivergent-online-courses/ [https://unapologeticallysensitive.com/neurodivergent-online-courses/] Receive the top 10 most downloaded episodes of the podcast-- https://www.subscribepage.com/e6z6e6 [https://www.subscribepage.com/e6z6e6] Sign up for the Newsletter-- https://www.subscribepage.com/y0l7d4 [https://www.subscribepage.com/y0l7d4] To write a review in itunes: 1. click on this link https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/unapologetically-sensitive/id1440433481?mt=2 [https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/unapologetically-sensitive/id1440433481?mt=2] 2. select “listen on Apple Podcasts” 3. chose “open in itunes” 4. choose “ratings and reviews” 5. click to rate the number of starts 6. click “write a review” Website--www. [http://www.patriciayounglcsw.com]unapologeticallysensitive.com Facebook-- https://www.facebook.com/Unapologetically-Sensitive-2296688923985657/ [https://www.facebook.com/Unapologetically-Sensitive-2296688923985657/] Closed/Private Facebook group Unapologetically Sensitive-- https://www.facebook.com/groups/2099705880047619/ [https://www.facebook.com/groups/2099705880047619/] Instagram-- https://www.instagram.com/unapologeticallysensitive/ [https://www.instagram.com/unapologeticallysensitive/] Youtube-- https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCOE6fodj7RBdO3Iw0NrAllg/videos?view_as=subscriber [https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCOE6fodj7RBdO3Iw0NrAllg/videos?view_as=subscriber] Tik Tok--https://www.tiktok.com/@unapologeticallysensitiv e-mail-- unapologeticallysensitive@gmail.com Show hashtag--#unapologeticallysensitive Music-- Gravel Dance by Andy Robinson www.andyrobinson.com [http://www.andyrobinson.com]

Coping and Prepatory Strategies for Overstimulating Situations   Summary   In this episode, Patricia discusses her experiences with content creation, coping strategies for overstimulation, and managing sensory sensitivities during significant life events like weddings. She shares insights on emotional preparation, adjusting to changes in family dynamics, and maintaining a healthy work-life balance to prevent burnout. Throughout the conversation, she emphasizes the importance of self-care, embracing imperfection, and recognizing the rights of individuals to rest and be themselves.    HIGHLIGHTS  ·       I struggle with overstimulation at events. ·       Earplugs help me manage sensory sensitivities. ·       Having a plan can reduce anxiety before events. ·       It's okay to slow down and take breaks. ·       I feel a little jealous of my husband's attention to our kids. ·       Managing workload is about finding balance. ·       I have a right to rest and take care of myself. ·       Sensitivity is nothing to apologize for. ·       Embracing imperfection is key to self-acceptance.   SOUND BITES "Done is better than perfect." "It's okay to slow down." "I have a right to rest."   SENSITIVITY IS NOTHING TO APOLOGIZE FOR; IT’S HOW YOUR BRAIN IS WIRED ·      You have a right to rest. ·      you have a right to push through. ·      you have a right to be nervous and anxious and to overthink. ·      You have a right to use tools that help you. ·      You have a right to be stimmy and happy and loud and bouncy. ·      You have a right to be quiet and reserved and to rest and to take care of yourself. CHAPTERS   00:00 Navigating Content Creation Challenges 01:22 Coping Strategies for Overstimulation 05:35 Managing Sensory Sensitivities at Events 10:17 Emotional Preparation for Major Life Events 15:42 Adjusting to Changes in Family Dynamics 18:45 Work-Life Balance and Preventing Burnout 25:22 Overcoming Perfectionism and Embracing Imperfection PODCAST HOST Patricia was a Licensed Clinical Social Worker for over 17 years, but she is now exclusively providing coaching. She knows what it’s like to feel like an outcast, misfit, and truthteller.  Learning about the trait of being a Highly Sensitive Person (HSP), then learning she is AuDHD with a PDA profile, OCD and RSD, helped Patricia rewrite her history with a deeper understanding, appreciation, and a sense of self-compassion.  She created the podcast Unapologetically Sensitive to help other neurodivergent folks know that they aren’t alone, and that having a brain that is wired differently comes with amazing gifts, and some challenges.  Patricia works online globally working individually with people, and she teaches Online Courses for neurodivergent folks that focus on understanding what it means to be a sensitive neurodivergent. Topics covered include: self-care, self-compassion, boundaries, perfectionism, mindfulness, communication, and creating a lifestyle that honors you LINKS   Neurodivergent Online Course-- https://unapologeticallysensitive.com/neurodivergent-online-courses/ [https://unapologeticallysensitive.com/neurodivergent-online-courses/]   Receive the top 10 most downloaded episodes of the podcast-- https://www.subscribepage.com/e6z6e6 [https://www.subscribepage.com/e6z6e6] Sign up for the Newsletter-- https://www.subscribepage.com/y0l7d4 [https://www.subscribepage.com/y0l7d4]   To write a review in itunes: 1. click on this link https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/unapologetically-sensitive/id1440433481?mt=2 [https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/unapologetically-sensitive/id1440433481?mt=2] 2. select “listen on Apple Podcasts” 3. chose “open in itunes” 4. choose “ratings and reviews” 5. click to rate the number of starts 6. click “write a review”   Website--www. [http://www.patriciayounglcsw.com]unapologeticallysensitive.com Facebook-- https://www.facebook.com/Unapologetically-Sensitive-2296688923985657/ [https://www.facebook.com/Unapologetically-Sensitive-2296688923985657/] Closed/Private Facebook group Unapologetically Sensitive-- https://www.facebook.com/groups/2099705880047619/ [https://www.facebook.com/groups/2099705880047619/] Instagram-- https://www.instagram.com/unapologeticallysensitive/ [https://www.instagram.com/unapologeticallysensitive/] Youtube-- https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCOE6fodj7RBdO3Iw0NrAllg/videos?view_as=subscriber [https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCOE6fodj7RBdO3Iw0NrAllg/videos?view_as=subscriber] Tik Tok--https://www.tiktok.com/@unapologeticallysensitiv e-mail-- unapologeticallysensitive@gmail.com Show hashtag--#unapologeticallysensitive Music-- Gravel Dance by Andy Robinson www.andyrobinson.com [http://www.andyrobinson.com]

Overstimulation & Recharge and the Impact on Relationships   In this conversation, Patricia explores the themes of overstimulation, the importance of recharging, and the dynamics of friendship, particularly in the context of neurodivergence. She shares her personal experiences with protesting, the challenges of feeling safe in crowds, and the emotional complexities of friendships, including rejection sensitivity, and the trauma that many Autistics have experienced in relationships. The discussion emphasizes the need for self-care, understanding one's limits, and the significance of connection in navigating life's challenges.   HIGHLIGHTS   ·       We often need to recharge after overstimulation. ·       Protesting can be a positive experience despite initial fears. ·       It's important to communicate needs in friendships. ·       Rejection sensitivity can affect how we perceive relationships. ·       Predictability and routine can provide comfort for neurodivergent individuals. ·       Self-care is essential for emotional regulation. ·       Understanding our triggers can help in managing our responses. ·       Friendships can change, and it's okay to let go. ·       We should honor our sensitivity and the way we connect with others. ·       It's important to recognize that not everyone is meant for us.   SOUND BITES "You have a right to rest." "You are not meant for everyone."   SENSITIVITY IS NOTHING TO APOLOGIZE FOR; IT’S HOW YOUR BRAIN IS WIRED You have a right to reach out to friends. You have a right to rest. You have a right to be playful. You have a right to be serious and quiet. Our idea of fun is not always what a neurotypical's idea of fun is, and that could be studying a language, studying something that you're interested in, doing a craft project, spending time with animals. You have a right to be quiet. You have a right to be loud. You are not meant for everyone and everyone is not meant for you.   CHAPTERS   00:00 Navigating Overstimulation and Recharge 06:04 Experiencing Protest: A Personal Journey 11:54 Friendship Dynamics and Rejection Sensitivity 18:48 Patterns of Engagement and Disengagement PODCAST HOST Patricia was a Licensed Clinical Social Worker for over 17 years, but she is now exclusively providing coaching. She knows what it’s like to feel like an outcast, misfit, and truthteller.  Learning about the trait of being a Highly Sensitive Person (HSP), then learning she is AuDHD with a PDA profile, OCD and RSD, helped Patricia rewrite her history with a deeper understanding, appreciation, and a sense of self-compassion.  She created the podcast Unapologetically Sensitive to help other neurodivergent folks know that they aren’t alone, and that having a brain that is wired differently comes with amazing gifts, and some challenges.  Patricia works online globally working individually with people, and she teaches Online Courses for neurodivergent folks that focus on understanding what it means to be a sensitive neurodivergent. Topics covered include: self-care, self-compassion, boundaries, perfectionism, mindfulness, communication, and creating a lifestyle that honors you LINKS   Neurodivergent Online Course-- https://unapologeticallysensitive.com/neurodivergent-online-courses/ [https://unapologeticallysensitive.com/neurodivergent-online-courses/]   Receive the top 10 most downloaded episodes of the podcast-- https://www.subscribepage.com/e6z6e6 [https://www.subscribepage.com/e6z6e6] Sign up for the Newsletter-- https://www.subscribepage.com/y0l7d4 [https://www.subscribepage.com/y0l7d4]   To write a review in itunes: 1. click on this link https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/unapologetically-sensitive/id1440433481?mt=2 [https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/unapologetically-sensitive/id1440433481?mt=2] 2. select “listen on Apple Podcasts” 3. chose “open in itunes” 4. choose “ratings and reviews” 5. click to rate the number of starts 6. click “write a review”   Website--www. [http://www.patriciayounglcsw.com]unapologeticallysensitive.com Facebook-- https://www.facebook.com/Unapologetically-Sensitive-2296688923985657/ [https://www.facebook.com/Unapologetically-Sensitive-2296688923985657/] Closed/Private Facebook group Unapologetically Sensitive-- https://www.facebook.com/groups/2099705880047619/ [https://www.facebook.com/groups/2099705880047619/] Instagram-- https://www.instagram.com/unapologeticallysensitive/ [https://www.instagram.com/unapologeticallysensitive/] Youtube-- https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCOE6fodj7RBdO3Iw0NrAllg/videos?view_as=subscriber [https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCOE6fodj7RBdO3Iw0NrAllg/videos?view_as=subscriber] Tik Tok--https://www.tiktok.com/@unapologeticallysensitiv e-mail-- unapologeticallysensitive@gmail.com Show hashtag--#unapologeticallysensitive Music-- Gravel Dance by Andy Robinson www.andyrobinson.com [http://www.andyrobinson.com]