The Unapologetically Neurodivergent Podcast

Who is Dan Wilkins

What happens when you spend your whole career supporting neurodivergent people—then discover, decades in, that you’re one of them? In this episode of Unapologetically Neurodivergent, James sits down with Dan Wilkins (@managing_on_the_spectrum): nurse, social worker, senior manager, and late-diagnosed ND powerhouse. Dan shares the raw truth about getting his diagnosis at 42 after years in local government and the NHS, the messy reality of unmasking at work, and why he’s now on a mission to tear down barriers for neurodivergent people everywhere. Expect real talk about surviving school, thriving in senior roles, and the fire that comes from finally understanding your own brain.We dig into ND hell moments, the myth of “not enough,” and what organisations get wrong (and right) about supporting their neurodivergent staff. If you’ve ever felt like a lost cause, this one’s for you. Follow me @fintessandmindcoach Find Dan:Instagram: @managing_on_the_spectrum [https://www.instagram.com/managing_on_the_spectrum]Website: www.managingonthespectrum [https://www.managingonthespectrum/]No fake positivity—just real talk for real brains. Hit play and join the chaos.

Who is Hannah Bookbinder

What if the “hot mess” label is just the surface—and underneath is a mind built for brilliance? This week, James sits down with Hannah Bookbinder, ADHD and executive functioning coach with nearly 30 years’ experience, to break down the myths, the missed diagnoses, and the real stories behind neurodivergence.From her first client (“fix him, he’s a hot mess”) to helping thousands of kids, teens, and adults unlock their strengths, Hannah shares raw stories of transformation, hard truths about trauma and shame, and why late diagnosis can be both a relief and a challenge. We dig into why asking for help is a superpower, what schools and parents are still getting wrong, and how Hannah’s unique approach turns struggle into self-advocacy.Whether you’re ND yourself, a parent, teacher, or just tired of the same old “just try harder” advice, this episode is for you. Expect honesty, validation, and a few “aha” moments—plus practical tools for embracing your quirks and finding support that actually fits.Listen now to hear: * The real impact of labels and late diagnosis * How to break cycles of shame and trauma * Why self-advocacy is everything (and how to start) * Hannah’s top advice for anyone starting their ND journey Ready to ditch the stigma and embrace your strengths? Hit play. For more info on Hannah and her app check out: https://mytoadapp.com/

Who is Happie

This week I’m joined by Happie, a neurodivergent PT and the powerhouse behind Lasses That Lift — a strength space built for “quiet weirdos” who hate the chaos of commercial gyms. We talk about getting her ADHD diagnosis only last month, breaking free from toxic fitness rules, learning to rest without guilt, and how neurodivergent brains can actually thrive in strength training when the environment fits us. Expect real talk about dopamine, burnout, “clean eating” lies, and how sometimes doing one thing is better than doing nothing. 👀 If you’ve ever felt out of place in a loud gym or been told to “push through the pain” — this one’s for you. Follow Happie at @happielifts and check out her site at happielifts.com Follow me on Instagram & TikTok → @thefitnessandmindcoach

Who Is Connell

In this raw and powerful episode, I’m joined by Connell Scholar inclusive gym instructor, Ex-Chelsea pan-disability team player, Jack Petchey Award winner, and unapologetically neurodivergent. We talk about what it was like growing up non-verbal until the age of six, being written off by professionals, and then going on to smash every limit placed on him. From passing his driving test after five theory attempts to becoming a powerful voice for inclusion across schools, fitness, and mental health — Connell doesn’t hold back. Whether you’re late diagnosed, supporting ND loved ones, or just need a reminder that you’re not broken — this one’s for you. Connect with Connell: @conns.1 [https://www.instagram.com/conns.1?utm_source=chatgpt.com] over on instagram

Who is Rhiannon Cooper

Late-diagnosed with autism and ADHD at 30, Rhiannon Cooper went from avoiding exercise to losing 100 pounds, becoming a personal trainer, and transforming how neurodivergent people experience fitness. In this episode, we talk about: * Growing up as the “weird kid” in PE * The toxic, appearance-driven side of the fitness industry * Why traditional PT advice fails neurodivergent clients * Making gyms less overwhelming and more inclusive * Navigating gym anxiety and building self-advocacy Rhiannon’s journey shows that health isn’t about weight or aesthetics—it’s about safety, comfort, and finding a way to move that actually works for your brain. 🎧 Listen now and connect with Rhiannon’s unapologetically neurodivergent approach to fitness. Find Rhiannon HERE: Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@rhiannoncooperpt Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rhiannoncooperpt LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rhiannonc/  Website: https://www.tiktok.com/@rhiannoncooperpt Free community: https://community.notsotypicalfitness.co.uk/invitation?code=AG83CD Gym Anxiety Toolkit: https://subscribepage.io/gym-anxiety-toolkit