Unapologetically Sensitive

When Your Nervous System Borrows Someone Else's Vibes Patricia (she/her) shares a real-life update on navigating uncertainty, emotional overwhelm, and finding small moments of connection during difficult times. She reflects on the impact of global stress, parenting a child in the military, and how co-working and body doubling through the BREAM community unexpectedly lifted her energy. This episode gently explores neurodivergent needs for connection, pacing, and honoring your capacity—especially when life feels heavy. WHAT YOU'LL HEAR IN THIS EPISODE · A candid check-in about living through intense, uncertain times · The emotional impact of having a child in the Navy during global stress · Why even "not much going on" can still feel like a lot internally · How disconnection can show up as a quiet "meh" feeling · The power of other people's energy on your nervous system · An introduction to the BREAM (B.R.E.A.M.) community for women · What body doubling is and why it works for neurodivergent brains · Resistance before connection: "this is stupid, I don't want to do it" · How a simple co-working session shifted Patricia's entire mood · The importance of relational energy vs. forcing productivity · Family logistics, shifting plans, and navigating unpredictability · Finding joy in small, imperfect moments with loved ones · Witnessing a meaningful milestone: engagement ring shopping · The reality of changing plans when adult kids visit · Honoring personal needs even when family is in town (paddling, self-care) · Physical limits and respecting your body after intense workouts · Letting go of "shoulds" around fitness and capacity · Exploring sustainable ways to build strength at home · Preparing for travel while managing pet care and emotional load · Giving yourself permission to just be—even if you're only surviving SOUND BITES · "When I'm disconnected, everything just feels like… meh." · "Her energy was so good, it completely shifted mine." · "I just wouldn't push myself that hard on my own—and that matters." · "There's a lot of terrible stuff happening right now… and we just do what we can do." · "If you're just surviving, that's okay too." 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. 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, 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 Patricia's website, podcast episodes and more: www.unapologeticallysensitive.com LINKS Bream on facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hellobream Tik Tok: @hellobream To write a review in itunes: click on this link https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/unapologetically-sensitive/id1440433481?mt=2 select "listen on Apple Podcasts" chose "open in itunes" choose "ratings and reviews" click to rate the number of starts click "write a review" Website--www.unapologeticallysensitive.com Facebook-- ...

The Quiet Season: Healing, Routine, and "Nothing to Talk About" Patricia (she/her) reflects on a quiet, low-drama season of life and how emotional regulation, routine, and healing can create a sense of calm—but also unexpected challenges for creativity and productivity. She shares honest insights about AuDHD, executive functioning struggles, and the difficulty of initiating tasks when life slows down. Patricia also explores her deep connection to animals, the role of caregiving in neurodivergent lives, and how simplicity, routine, and lower expectations are supporting her wellbeing right now. WHAT YOU'LL HEAR IN THIS EPISODE · Living with less emotional reactivity can feel unfamiliar (and even uncomfortable) · A calm, drama-free life may feel "boring"… but it's actually a sign of healing · Creativity doesn't always flow when life is stable and predictable · Many neurodivergent folks create best from lived experience, not forced topics · Lowering expectations can reduce overwhelm and increase peace · Routine (like paddling, aquafit, dog walks) provides grounding and stability · Executive functioning challenges can show up more when external pressure is low · "Nothing getting done" ≠ failure — it may reflect a nervous system shift · Caretaking (especially of animals) can feel easier than self-care · A strong sense of responsibility can override inertia for others, but not for self · Animals provide emotional regulation, connection, and daily structure · Grief around pets looks different for different people—and that's valid · Neurodivergent people may deeply bond with animals in a way that feels natural and fulfilling · Life becoming "smaller" can be a protective, restorative phase · It's okay to pause, slow down, or rethink content creation rhythms SOUND BITES · "There just is not a lot of drama going on in my life—and I am deeply, deeply grateful." · "It feels like a very simple, quiet time in my life… which I really appreciate." · "I do my best recording when something is happening—and right now, things are just calm." · "Sometimes it's easier to take care of others than it is to take care of ourselves." · "It's okay when there's not a lot going on." 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. 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, 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 Patricia's website, podcast episodes and more: www.unapologeticallysensitive.com LINKS To write a review in itunes: click on this link https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/unapologetically-sensitive/id1440433481?mt=2 select "listen on Apple Podcasts" chose "open in itunes" choose "ratings and reviews" click to rate the number of starts click "write a review" Website--www.unapologeticallysensitive.com Facebook-- https://www.facebook.com/Unapologetically-Sensitive-2296688923985657/ Closed/Private Facebook...

The Radical Neurodivergent Act of Stopping Before You're Exhausted Patricia (she/her) shares what it's like when life is actuall calm. Without drama or big stories to tell, she reflects on learning to honor her energy limits. Patricia talks about pacing physical activity, noticing the urge to push past fatigue, and practicing self-compassion when her body needs rest. She also shares everyday moments—from kayaking at sunrise to navigating workouts and dog walks—while exploring what it means for autistic and neurodivergent people to find the "sweet spot" between doing enough and doing too much. WHAT YOU'LL HEAR IN THIS EPISODE · Sometimes life is peaceful and stable—and that can make content creation surprisingly hard. · Many creatives and neurodivergent people are used to generating insight during moments of stress or conflict. · Learning to honor calm periods can be a form of nervous system healing. · Patricia reflects on getting back into kayaking and being on the water, which brings joy and grounding. · Physical energy levels can change over time, especially with chronic illness or post-exertional malaise. · Pacing physical activity is an ongoing learning process. · The urge to "do just one more thing" can push the body past its limits. · Choosing to stop while still feeling okay can prevent a crash later. · Post-exertional malaise (PEM) can cause significant fatigue after physical or cognitive exertion. · Some autistic and neurodivergent people experience PEM, especially with hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (hEDS) or related conditions. · Finding the sweet spot between movement and rest is an ongoing experiment. · Overexertion can lead to days of fatigue that disrupt daily functioning. · Practicing restraint—doing less than your maximum—can actually support long-term wellbeing. · Asking for help, like getting assistance with moving a kayak, is part of sustainable energy management. · Even small tasks can become energy-intensive when managing chronic fatigue. · Devices and metrics (like watches and headphones) can sometimes create frustration rather than helpful feedback. · Everyday moments—like figuring out how to climb out of a pool—can become humorous reflections on aging and energy limits. · Patricia shares updates about family, travel plans, and caring for pets while balancing energy. · OCD thoughts still pop up, but she practices noticing and naming them rather than getting pulled into them. · Life doesn't always need drama to be meaningful—sometimes calm and connection are enough. SOUND BITES · "I create my best content when there's drama—but I don't actually want any drama." · "Everything is going really well right now… and I just don't have a lot to talk about." · "I'm really practicing holding back a little so there's something left in the tank." · "It's that balance—enough stimulation but not too much, enough movement but not too much." 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. 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, and she teaches Online Courses for neurodivergent folks that focus on...

Yes, I Twisted My Ankle. Yes, I Peed a Little Patricia Young (she/her) explores how change— even neutral change — can feel dysregulating, especially for autistic and neurodivergent people. From shifting family schedules and unexpected travel changes to navigating awkward neighbor dynamics and social gray areas, she shares real-life examples of practicing flexibility instead of binary thinking. WHAT YOU'LL HEAR IN THIS EPISODE · Why neutral change can still feel deeply dysregulating · The nervous system impact of shifting routines · Family schedule changes and the emotional whiplash that can follow · Anticipating the worst when others are gone · Grumbly thinking vs. reality when loved ones return · The binary autistic brain: all-or-nothing thinking patterns · Practicing middle ground instead of rigidity · Adjusting dog-walking routines without spiraling · Letting your body rest without labeling it as failure · Listening to fatigue cues after high-output days · Using structure for regulation without becoming trapped by it · Creating supportive environments (like curating a digital photo frame) · Finding connection through shared routines (AquaFit, food, walking dogs) · Traveling compatibility and how that reveals relational ease · Learning to self-regulate instead of outsourcing emotional regulation · Missing daily co-regulation but recognizing growth · Letting go of shame around aging-body moments (the sneeze/cough reality) · Neighbor conflict and not over-personalizing hostility · Rejection sensitivity and the meaning we attach to social behavior · Practicing social gray areas: cordial vs. friend vs. enemy SOUND BITES · "Change isn't good or bad. But it can still be hard." · "Just because I feel grumbly doesn't mean that's the truth." · "It doesn't have to be all or nothing. There is a middle ground." · "It's not a failure to rest. It's listening to my body." 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. 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, 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 Patricia's website, podcast episodes and more: www.unapologeticallysensitive.com LINKS To write a review in itunes: click on this link https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/unapologetically-sensitive/id1440433481?mt=2 select "listen on Apple Podcasts" chose "open in itunes" choose "ratings and reviews" click to rate the number of starts click "write a review" Website--www.unapologeticallysensitive.com Facebook-- https://www.facebook.com/Unapologetically-Sensitive-2296688923985657/ Closed/Private Facebook group Unapologetically Sensitive-- https://www.facebook.com/groups/2099705880047619/ Instagram-- https://www.instagram.com/unapologeticallysensitive/ Youtube-- https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCOE6fodj7RBdO3Iw0NrAllg/videos?view_as=subscriber Tik...

Insurance Denials, Unexpected Connection Hacks and a Kitten with a Foot Fetish Patricia Young (she/her) shares a "mishmash" of real-time reflections on disappointment, expectations, nervous system shifts, and the everyday emotional intensity of being AuDHD. From insurance frustrations and PDA autonomy struggles to surprising connection hacks like a digital picture frame, Patricia explores what it means to be neurodivergent in a world full of unpredictability. This episode is a gentle reminder that big feelings are valid, connection can show up unexpectedly, and sensitivity is nothing to apologize for. WHAT YOU'LL HEAR IN THIS EPISODE · The emotional whiplash of going from calm to dysregulated in minutes · How autistic and AuDHD nervous systems respond to sudden disappointment · The impact of insurance denial and loss of autonomy (PDA profile) · Why "doing the next indicated step" can be grounding · The difference between pushing through vs. honoring rest · Patricia's experience as a verbal processor and why venting helps · The autistic struggle of wanting specificity but needing to stay vague · How gifts outside your frame of reference can initially trigger discomfort · A surprising digital picture frame "object permanence" connection hack · The neurodivergent reality of out-of-sight, out-of-mind relationships · Internalized self-judgment about what we "should" value · How accommodations from safe people feel deeply regulating · The joy of being supported without shame or inconvenience · Navigating sensory overwhelm in loud restaurants with Loop earplugs · How trusted relationships can invite novelty without dysregulation · The concept of "burnt toast" moments — when bad things lead to better outcomes · Grief, rage, and relief that can come with late autism diagnosis · The pain of expectations falling flat in relationships · Rejection sensitivity showing up even with pets (hello, Walter the kitten) · The reminder that neurodivergent big feelings are human and shared SOUND BITES · "My window of tolerance is increasing. I can just sit with more uncomfortable things." · "Sometimes just doing the next indicated step is how we move through things." · "I wouldn't have asked for a digital picture frame… and it ended up being a great hack for connection." · "I feel so seen and so accommodated — and there's nothing about 'you're too much.'" · "There's nothing wrong with you. You're not alone. We're just wired the way we are." 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. 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, 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 Patricia's website, podcast episodes and more: www.unapologeticallysensitive.com LINKS To write a review in itunes: click on this link https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/unapologetically-sensitive/id1440433481?mt=2 select "listen on Apple Podcasts" chose...

Unbothered, Unmasked, and Still Showing Up: Why Neurodivergent People Do the Hard Things for Others Patricia Young (she/her) explores what it means to show up for others as an AuDHDer. She reflects on value-driven behavior, executive functioning challenges, internalized ableism, grief, rest, and the deep relief of living an "unbothered life." Through personal stories about partnership, support, sensory overwhelm, initiation struggles, and authentic connection, this episode invites listeners to rethink productivity, compassion, and what real belonging looks like when we stop masking and start honoring our nervous systems. WHAT YOU'LL HEAR IN THIS EPISODE · Why neurodivergent people often do hard things for others but struggle to do the same things for themselves · The difference between preference vs. values (and why values often override sensory limits) · A real-life example of showing up for an important ritual despite overwhelm · How gratitude and being seen can make difficult experiences feel meaningful · The "Soup Jean" metaphor: values-based caregiving and automatic compassion · Why some people are confused by generosity—and how that reflects differing value systems · Letting go of mental noise and choosing an unbothered life · OCD, intrusive thoughts, and giving your brain limited airtime instead of full control · "Not my circus, not my monkeys" as a neurodivergent boundary tool · Executive functioning struggles with task initiation (especially for autistic & ADHD adults) · How supportive partners can initiate without infantilizing · Internalized ableism and the fear of "What if I have to do this alone someday?" · The myth that trying harder fixes ADHD and autistic challenges · Compassion for inconsistent energy, productivity, and capacity · Capitalism, productivity culture, and why rest feels morally loaded · Why systems (homes for objects) matter more than willpower · Everyday executive functioning examples (milk, groceries, unfinished tasks) · When to step in to support vs. letting natural consequences happen · Communicating needs during grief without over-explaining or masking · Redefining intimacy: showing up tired, quiet, grumpy, or grieving—and still belonging SOUND BITES · "There are things I struggle to do for myself that I would do without hesitation for people I love—because that's my value system." · "I don't want things taking up space in my head that don't belong to me anymore." · "Just because I can do something one day doesn't mean I can do it the next—and that's not a moral failure." · "Rest isn't laziness. It's information." · "You can't screw up being you." 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. 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, 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 Patricia's website, podcast episodes and more: www.unapologeticallysensitive.com LINKS To...

The Day My Nervous System Chose Violence (Internally) Patricia Young (she/her) explores what happens when big feelings meet medication changes, OCD spirals, and unmet needs. Through a vulnerable personal story about adjusting OCD medication, asking for support, and reacting more intensely than expected, Patricia reflects on autism, relational OCD, RSD, and trauma responses. She also discusses how to hold grief and joy at the same time, how to create meaning when life is profoundly unfair, and why it's okay to share joy without making yourself smaller. This episode is a compassionate reminder that awareness, baseline tracking, and self-permission are key tools for sensitive and neurodivergent people navigating relationships, mental health, and change. WHAT YOU'LL HEAR IN THIS EPISODE · Big reactions aren't character flaws — they're often signals, especially for autistic and OCD brains · Medication changes can remove protective buffers, even when life circumstances are stable · Asking for what you want can activate PDA, RSD, and old relational wounds · OCD often pulls in "evidence" and tallying to justify emotional pain · Feeling justified doesn't mean the story is accurate — it means the feelings are loud · You can manage your behavior externally while still experiencing internal emotional chaos · Walking, movement, and problem-solving can help — but they don't erase vulnerability · A "hard day" doesn't mean failure — it means data · Knowing your emotional baseline is critical when adjusting meds · It's okay to decide that you don't want more days like that · You don't have to accept injustice to learn how to live alongside it · Two truths can exist at the same time: devastation and joy · Therapy and coaching work best when clients feel safe giving feedback · Neurodivergent-affirming practitioners change the entire therapeutic experience · You don't have to make yourself small to protect others from discomfort SOUND BITES · "It wasn't about the coffee — it was about how big everything felt in my body." · "The bigger my feelings got, the more justification my brain wanted." · "This hasn't been my baseline — and that matters." · "I don't think this is something you ever 'accept,' but you can still create meaning." · "I don't want to live a life where I write people off when I'm overwhelmed." 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 ALLOW FOR ADDITION OF INTRO) 00:00 Navigating Big Feelings and Reactions 21:13 Creating Meaning Amidst Unfairness 34:21 Embracing Joy and New Experiences 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, 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 Patricia's website, podcast episodes and more: www.unapologeticallysensitive.com LINKS To write a review in itunes: click on this link https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/unapologetically-sensitive/id1440433481?mt=2...

The Holidays: A Group Project My Nervous System Didn't Agree To In this New Year's episode, Patricia Young (she/her) explores why the holiday season can be especially challenging for autistic, ADHD, and AuDHD nervous systems. Through personal stories about gift giving, overstimulation, masking, PDA, rejection sensitivity, and the need for sameness and predictability, she unpacks how small changes and social expectations can quietly dysregulate neurodivergent people. The episode also includes updates on her purple hair and tattoo, reflections on attunement and fairness, and a gentle alternative to New Year's resolutions—offering practical categories for reflection that center self-compassion, regulation, and realistic support. WHAT YOU'LL HEAR IN THIS EPISODE · Why holidays are uniquely overstimulating for neurodivergent nervous systems · How transitions, visitors, and disrupted routines impact regulation · The role of predictability, sameness, and visual memory in autistic well-being · Why gift giving can activate PDA, executive dysfunction, and shame · How attunement in gift giving can feel deeply regulating—and deeply stressful · The pressure to perform gratitude and enthusiasm while masking discomfort · Why opening gifts in front of others can be overwhelming for autistic adults · How fairness, justice sensitivity, and reciprocity complicate holiday dynamics · The emotional labor involved in "doing it right" socially · How body doubling supports assertiveness and nervous system regulation · Why small environmental changes can create disproportionate stress · The difference between order as regulation versus control · How animals, sensory joy, and flexibility can increase tolerance for chaos · Reflections on regret, learning, and doing things differently over time · Why curiosity and problem-solving are often misunderstood in autistic communication · How rejection sensitivity and object permanence affect relationships · A compassionate alternative to New Year's resolutions · Reflective life categories including health, finances, relationships, self-care, creativity, home, and novelty · Why survival mode is sometimes the only valid goal · A reminder that sensitivity is wiring—not a flaw SOUND BITES · "Our nervous systems really do best with sameness, repetition, and predictability." · "Masking is all about making other people feel comfortable—and that's a lot of work." · "Regret doesn't mean you did something wrong. It means you're learning." · "You have a right to be regulated, dysregulated, organized, disorganized, content, or discontent." 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 ALLOW FOR ADDITION OF INTRO) 00:00 Navigating Holiday Challenges 10:06 The Complexity of Gift Giving 20:39 Reflections on Relationships and Expectations 29:26 Looking Ahead: New Year Reflections 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, 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,...

Bold Moves: Purple Hair, a Tattoo, and No Take-Backs Patricia (she/her) reflects on what it really means to make bold moves—and how we talk to ourselves when those decisions don't land the way we hoped. Through the very real experiences of dyeing her hair purple for the first time and getting a tattoo she isn't sure she likes, she explores autistic decision-making, sensory overwhelm, masking, regret, and self-compassion. This episode is about reframing regret as information, honoring neurodivergent needs in the moment, and learning how to be kinder to ourselves when we take risks and feel unsure afterward. WHAT YOU'LL HEAR IN THIS EPISODE · End-of-year reflection: How has this year been, and what are we carrying into the next one? · The desire to make bold moves—and the fear that often comes with them · Deciding to dye hair purple for the first time · Letting excitement, doubt, and second-guessing coexist · Experiencing a deeply neurodivergent-affirming salon appointment · The importance of predictability, process explanations, and bodily autonomy · Getting over-hungry, tech issues, and how small barriers can cascade into overwhelm · Allowing a meltdown in a safe space instead of masking through it · Not knowing immediately whether you like something—and the pressure to perform enthusiasm · Scheduling a tattoo the very next day as another bold move · Sensory overload, unexpected pain, and difficulty advocating in the moment · Masking through physical pain and being praised for "doing great" · Immediate tattoo regret and the awareness of permanence · Naming regret without spiraling into shame or self-blame · Reframing regret as data, not a moral failure · Disconnecting from the body temporarily as a coping strategy · How rigid rules around food, ownership, and permission show up in autistic lives · The power of communicating needs instead of carrying silent embarrassment · Challenging the belief that we must always make the "right" decision · Ending with reminders about gentleness, lowered expectations, and honoring sensitivity SOUND BITES · "The goal was to make bold moves—and I did." · "It's okay to have regrets. That doesn't mean I did something wrong." · "I allowed myself to feel what I was feeling instead of masking and falling apart later." · "What we tell ourselves about our experiences matters more than the experience itself." · "Sensitivity is nothing to apologize for. It's how your brain is wired." 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. 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, 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 Patricia's website, podcast episodes and more: www.unapologeticallysensitive.com LINKS To write a review in itunes: click on this link https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/unapologetically-sensitive/id1440433481?mt=2 select "listen on Apple Podcasts" chose "open in...

Keeping it Real During the Holidays: p.s. I Love the Grinch! Patricia (she/her) dives into the emotional and sensory whirlwind of navigating change as an AuDHDer during the holiday season. She unpacks the exhaustion that comes from shifting family dynamics, unpredictable routines, kitten chaos, people coming and going, and the desire to show up with more capacity than she actually has. Patricia speaks candidly about shutdowns, resentment, communication misfires and boundary-setting. This episode invites listeners to honor their own wiring, acknowledge their limits, and give themselves permission to navigate change on their own terms—especially when the world is loud, messy, and demanding far too much. WHAT YOU'LL HEAR IN THIS EPISODE · The emotional weight of constant change during the holidays · Why autistic and AuDHD nervous systems struggle with unpredictability · How people coming and going can destabilize daily rhythms · Sensory overwhelm from decorations, noise, and social expectations · The shutdown mode that follows too much "peopling" · Resentment that canform when needs aren't communicated directly · That awkward dance between wanting to show up and feeling over capacity · Kitten chaos as both joy and sensory overload · Feeling responsible for everyone's experience (hello, people-pleasing!) · The grief of not feeling safe to voice your values or boundaries · Family conflict and the ripple effects on your emotional regulation · Why inconsistency can be draining for some neurodivergent brains · The need for predictability, routines, and familiar sensory anchors · Internalized pressure to be "easygoing," especially around holidays · The truth-telling wisdom of the body when burnout hits · "Harvest feast" (aka Thanksgiving) recovery mode · Observing subtle family dynamics that others overlook · Using pacing and gentle self-compassion to navigate the season · How even positive changes can be dysregulating · The reminder that honoring your limits is an act of self-love SOUND BITES · "Change really affects me. I overdid it, and now my body is telling the truth." · "Even things that you enjoy can be dysregulating and overwhelming." · "If someone could respond differently, they would—we're not choosing to have difficulty with change." · "Inconsistency is very difficult for me; it's not about the tree, it's about the mismatch." · "I think what I call depression is really resentment for not being direct." 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. 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, 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 Patricia's website, podcast episodes and more: www.unapologeticallysensitive.com LINKS To write a review in itunes: click on this link https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/unapologetically-sensitive/id1440433481?mt=2 select "listen on Apple Podcasts"...

Boring Means Stable: Learning to Love Ordinary Days In this honest, meandering, and heart-centered solo episode, Patricia Young (she/her) opens up about feeling "not enough," while navigating overwhelm, managing PDA (Pervasive Drive for Autonomy. From decluttering and kayaking to the quiet comfort of boring days and the challenges of social invitations, Patricia invites listeners into the gentle, nonlinear process of living authentically as an AuDHDer. With humor and tenderness, she explores aging, family connection, holidays, and what it means to find peace amid imperfection. WHAT YOU'LL HEAR IN THIS EPISODE · · Warm check-in and reflection on recording after a long pause. · Questioning whether to focus on educational autism content vs. personal lived experiences. · Feeling conflicted about being "self-centered" but recognizing that stories are teaching. · Update on absence of neighborhood drama and emotional regulation progress. · Learning to accept being perceived and misunderstood without spiraling into shame. · The liberating philosophy of the "We Do Not Care Club" — embracing authenticity and dropping people-pleasing. · Honest reflections on living in a chronic state of "not enoughness." · Managing overwhelm, task initiation struggles, and executive dysfunction. · The surprising victory of small tasks — like finally writing and depositing a check. · Adjusting OCD medication and rediscovering emotional depth and aliveness. · The tension between stability, boredom, and gratitude. · Recognizing that neurotypical spaces often feel flat or alienating, while "your people" bring out your voice. · The resistance around novelty and social invitations, even for enjoyable experiences. · The humor and vulnerability of sharing internal dialogue with accepting friends. · ADHD-fueled hobby cycles, clutter, and the emotional complexity of decluttering as an ND person. · Reflections on attachment to objects, trauma, and "don't touch my stuff" energy. · Navigating change, potential regret, and the push-pull between freedom and familiarity. · Anticipating the kids moving in—balancing excitement, companionship, and uncertainty. · Thoughts on the holidays, overstimulation, and why Thanksgiving feels grounding and joyful. · PDA flare-ups, avoidance of even beneficial demands, and compassion for executive fatigue. SOUND BITES · "I've really been in this era of not enough. Whatever I do just doesn't feel like enough." · "People are going to have their own thoughts and judgments about us — and we can't control that." · "I'm just trying to appreciate boring days, because boring means stable." · "Even when it's something that will help me, if it feels like a demand, my brain just says no." · "You are not for everybody, and everyone is not for you." 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. TOPICS COVERED (please adjust for addition of introduction) 00:00 Navigating Personal Updates and Autism Awareness 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, and she teaches Online Courses for neurodivergent folks that focus on understanding...

No Room for In-Between: Literal Thinking and Communication Ruptures In this raw and honest episode, Patricia (she/her) shares her ongoing challenges with neurodivergent miscommunication, community rupture, and the emotional toll of being misunderstood. From neighborhood conflicts to horse training lessons, from cancel culture to navigating friendships and travel as an autistic person, Patricia opens up about the messy, contradictory realities of life, belonging, and growth. Listeners will walk away feeling less alone in their struggles with relationships, self-advocacy, and embracing both discomfort and joy. WHAT YOU'LL HEAR IN THIS EPISODE · Why Patricia didn't want to record this episode—and why she did anyway · The ongoing story of neighborhood rupture and the painful dynamics of miscommunication · How neurodivergent communication differences play into misunderstanding and conflict · The discomfort of being misunderstood as an autistic person who values precision and exactness · The struggle of wanting repair but receiving ongoing hurtful communication instead · Recognizing when "these are not our people" and finding peace in letting go · Cancel culture: when it's useful, when it's harmful, and Patricia's lived perspective · How language change matters—and conversations with her husband about accountability in speech · The empowerment that comes from horse training and facing fear with big draft horses · Lessons from working with animals: calm presence, assertiveness, and learning new leadership skills · Navigating differences in friendships around money, dining, and travel · The autistic push-pull between craving sameness and being invited into novelty · Strategies for managing overwhelm when faced with too many choices or new experiences · How safe friendships allow for authenticity and unmasking · The sadness and privilege of having barriers to change, novelty, and travel—and finding supportive companions · Building resilience through small trial runs and intentional fun · The importance of bumping up against resistance to live a fuller, lighter life · Patricia's reflections on aging, matching tattoos with her kids, and wanting to add more joy SOUND BITES · There are times when we need to speak up, and there are times when we need to let people misunderstand us and sit with the discomfort." · "If you're autistic, precision and exactness are high values—being misunderstood can feel unbearable." · "This isn't personal. This is about neurodivergent miscommunication. And that gave me relief—at least for a little while." · "I'm more than two-thirds through my life, and I want to whip it up a little bit. If you're going to do some fun stuff, you better do it soon." · "Sensitivity is nothing to apologize for. You are perfect exactly as you are in a world not made for us." 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. TOPICS COVERED (please adjust for addition of introduction) 00:00 Navigating Neurodivergent Communication Challenges 09:40 The Impact of Cancel Culture on Relationships 19:11 Finding Community and Connection 25:07 Embracing Change and Personal Growth 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...

The Push-Pull of ADHD and Autism: Stretching Without Breaking In this candid conversation, Patricia Young (she/her) and B Lourenco (she/her) dive deep into the realities of living with ADHD, autism, and other forms of neurodivergence. They explore the push-pull between self-accommodation and stretching ourselves, how shame and internalized ableism impact daily life, and what it means to create realistic support systems at home, in relationships, and in the workplace. Expect raw honesty, relatable stories, and practical insights for navigating neurodivergent life. WHAT YOU’LL HEAR IN THIS EPISODE · The ongoing “driver’s seat battle” between ADHD and autism. · The push-pull between making accommodations and stretching ourselves beyond comfort. · Parenting a neurodivergent young adult while balancing when to push and when to allow rest. · Task initiation struggles — from making banana bread to cooking meals. · Body doubling as a powerful tool to reduce shame and spark motivation. · The “crisper/rotter” effect — guilt over wasted food and executive dysfunction. · Financial and practical impacts of task initiation challenges. · How privilege plays into having options like prepared or frozen meals when cooking feels impossible. · The cost of pushing through fatigue and flares with conditions like POTS and MCAS. · “Future me” thinking — and the difficulties neurodivergent folks have with impermanence. · Shame as the “ice cream scoop” on top of disability struggles. · Why diagnosis matters: language helps reduce shame and prevent repeating harmful patterns. · How powerlessness, and an attempt to gain autonomy can show up in small, reactive choices (like leaving a Facebook group). · Sensory sensitivities in family systems — how lack of accommodations can lead to dysfunction. · Practical accommodations for noise-sensitive parents and their kids. · Workplace challenges: 40-hour weeks, return-to-office pressures, and capitalism’s rigidity. · Creative problem-solving in disabled and neurodivergent communities. · The deep fear of being uncared for and alone if we can’t keep up. · Hyper-independence and isolation in the ADHD/autistic community. · Internalized ableism and the “shoulds” that drive shame and burnout. · Neurodivergence as a dynamic disability — what’s possible one day isn’t always possible the next. · Radical acceptance as a path toward reducing judgment and finding relief. SOUND BITES · “It begs the question of, okay, is that okay? Can we just say that’s how it is?” – B Lourenco · “Instead of putting our energy into addressing the gap, folks will take the great divide and then put a scoop of shame on top of it.” – B Lourenco · “All the terrible things that we tell ourselves… if I didn’t have that awareness, I’d just keep repeating these patterns.” – Patricia Young · “In order to truly accommodate ourselves, we have to acknowledge that it’s as hard as it is and that we’re as disabled as we are.” – B Lourenco · “Sometimes I have to ask myself, what if what you’re going through is exactly where you need to be?” – Patricia Young 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. TOPICS COVERED (please adjust for addition of introduction) 00:00 Navigating Neurodivergence: A Personal Journey 02:59 Understanding Accommodations: Balancing Needs and Expectations 05:48 The Push-Pull of Task Initiation and Self-Care 08:33 Shame and Support: The Role of Community 11:35 The Impact of Environment on Neurodivergent Individuals 14:26 Workplace Challenges: The Struggle for Accommodations 17:16 Building Bridges: Community and Creative Solutions 20:00 Radical Acceptance: Embracing Our Reality 22:48 The Journey of Self-Discovery and Identity 25:42 The Dynamic Nature of Neurodivergence 29:02 Finding Joy in the Present Moment 31:47 The Bigger Picture:...

Rupture without Repair, and the Discomfort of Being Misunderstood In this deeply personal episode, Patricia (she/her) unpacks the fallout from a neighborhood rupture and the painful loss of community connection. Through the lens of being autistic and AuDHD, she explores rejection sensitivity, communication breakdowns, friendship trauma, and why repair isn’t always possible. She also shares how co-regulation, body doubling, Costco runs, and fierce family love provide grounding. This conversation is raw, tender, and validating for anyone who has struggled with being misunderstood as a neurodivergent person. WHAT YOU’LL HEAR IN THIS EPISODE · The neighborhood rupture and how a joke led to exclusion from a community group · What happens when rupture and repair aren’t possible in friendships · The autistic need for clarity, communication, and closure · Rejection Sensitivity Dysphoria (RSD) and how silence feels like rejection · The PDA (persistent drive for autonomy) response to being left out · The pain of friendship trauma and feeling misunderstood · How autistic people process and loop on unresolved conflict · The role of community in belonging and nervous system regulation · Why body doubling and co-regulation help autistic/ADHD brains stay grounded · Finding comfort in Costco runs, small joys, and simple routines · Permission to need rest, wear earplugs, or retreat from sensory overwhelm · Generational differences in friendship and communication between neurodivergent people · Practicing adaptability through change (like moving workspaces at home) · The bittersweet truth: not all friendships are meant to last · Gratitude reframed through an autistic lens—how to find appreciation without bypassing pain SOUND BITES “For us, it felt like there was no space for human mistakes, no place for rupture and repair.” “This activated friendship trauma in me, and I’ve noticed my protective armor is up.” “Intellectually, I know this is fine. Emotionally, feeling misunderstood and powerless is really hard.” "You have a right to speak up." "Not all friendships last forever." "Life is messy. Friendships are messy." “Body doubling is such a beautiful way to borrow someone else’s nervous system to regulate.” “Sensitivity is nothing to apologize for. It’s how you’re wired. You have the right to take up space.” 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. TOPICS COVERED (please adjust for addition of introduction) 00:00 Navigating Community Dynamics 08:42 The Impact of Silence and Rejection 17:06 Rupture, Repair, and the Complexity of Relationships 23:52 Finding Joy in Everyday Moments 29:13 Gratitude and Perspective on Life 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, 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 Patricia’s website, podcast episodes and more: www.unapologeticallysensitive.com LINKS To write...

When ADHD Wants Adventure and Autism Just Wants a Nap Patricia (she/her) explores what it means to show up authentically as a neurodivergent person—especially when navigating the tension between wanting novelty (hello ADHD/AuDHD brains!) and craving sameness (thank you autism). She shares candid stories about celebrating her anniversary, managing low energy, social interactions, and dealing with conflict. Patricia also opens up about balancing autistic traits, ADHD novelty-seeking, PDA (persistent drive for autonomy), and honoring her sensitivity. If you’re autistic, ADHD, AuDHD, or otherwise neurodivergent, this episode offers relatable honesty, self-compassion, and a reminder that sensitivity is nothing to apologize for. WHAT YOU’LL HEAR IN THIS EPISODE · Why showing up authentically—even when low energy or struggling—creates safety and deeper connection. · The push-pull between ADHD’s love of novelty and autism’s need for sameness. · A vulnerable look at performance pressure, PDA (persistent drive for autonomy), and the tension of “supposed to” versus authentic presence. · Reflections on navigating conflict, rejection, and the looping thoughts that come with OCD and sensitivity. · Stories of how small moments of authenticity (complimenting a server, connecting with strangers, sharing vulnerability) can bring ease and humor. · The joys of volunteering with puppies, finding novelty in animals, and noticing the small things that bring comfort. · Honest sharing about energy struggles, self-judgment, and learning to honor your body’s signals. KEY TAKEAWAYS · You don’t have to perform or mask to be worthy of connection. · Novelty and sameness can co-exist—it’s about experimenting and noticing what feels supportive. · Authenticity often comes in small, ordinary moments that bring relief and connection. · Conflict and rejection are painful, but self-trust and curiosity can soften the edges. · Sensitivity is not something to apologize for—it’s a way of being in the world. SOUND BITES "Show up as you are." "I felt very inadequate." "I really resist it." 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. TOPICS COVERED (please adjust for addition of introduction) 00:00 Embracing Authenticity 09:12 Navigating Social Expectations 17:54 Finding Balance in Emotions 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, 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 Patricia’s website, podcast episodes and more: www.unapologeticallysensitive.com LINKS To write a review in itunes: click on this link https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/unapologetically-sensitive/id1440433481?mt=2 select “listen on Apple Podcasts” chose “open in itunes” choose “ratings and reviews” click to rate the number of starts click “write a review” Website--www.unapologeticallysensitive.com Facebook-- ...

When the Dogs Stop Saying Hi: The Human Need for Connection and Belonging Patricia (she/her) explores the complexities of community, being perceived, and the challenges of navigating relationships amidst misunderstandings and cancel culture. She shares personal experiences of rupture and repair within her community, reflecting on the emotional impact of feeling excluded and the importance of acknowledging one's behavior in relationships. Patricia also highlights the simultaneous beauty of connections and celebrations, even amidst challenges, emphasizing the need for self-acceptance and understanding in the face of adversity. KEY TAKEAWAYS · The emotional toll of being perceived in a way that doesn’t match how we see ourselves · Owning mistakes and navigating the possibility of repair (even when others might not be open) · The pain of being excluded from community events and how rejection sensitivity & OCD can flare · Mixed emotions around her birthday — feeling both unseen by some and deeply loved by others · The balance between taking accountability and resisting self-abandonment · Practices of self-compassion when reassurance doesn’t come from others · What happens when justice, fragility, and nuance collide in relationships · Her growing love of animals, volunteering with horses, and a longing to return to simple joys · A behind-the-scenes peek into the Unapologetically AuDHD podcast launch · The challenges of time agnosia in friendships and how ND folks can navigate it compassionately · Updates on kayaking, paddleboarding, and listening to her nervous system · A gentle invitation to ask yourself: Would I want to be in community with people who won't repair? HIGHLIGHTS · The challenge of being perceived differently than how we see ourselves. · Rupture and repair are essential components of relationships. · Community can provide both support and feelings of exclusion. · Setting boundaries is a right everyone has. · Cancel culture can complicate personal relationships. · Acknowledging one's behavior is crucial for repair. · It's important to celebrate connections amidst challenges. · Sensitivity is a unique trait that should be embraced. · Self-acceptance is key to navigating emotional turmoil. · Finding joy in small moments can help during difficult times. SOUND BITES “Rupture and repair is part of being human. And sometimes repair doesn’t happen — but that doesn’t mean we stop showing up with integrity.” “My OCD wants reassurance. And sometimes, I just have to sit with that and give it to myself.” “We all have a primal need for belonging. And when that’s taken away, it’s a wound that goes deep.” "I want to spend time with animals." "It's okay to not be social." "It's okay to feel connected." 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. TOPICS COVERED (please adjust for addition of introduction) 00:00 Navigating Community and Perception 11:44 Rupture and Repair in Relationships 19:20 Celebrating Connections Amidst Challenges 25:44 Embracing Sensitivity and Self-Acceptance 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...

Disempowered to Empowered: Meltdowns, Boundaries & Donuts In this heartfelt episode, Patricia (she/her) shares three powerful personal stories that highlight the challenges—and wins—that come with being a sensitive, creative, neurodivergent human. From navigating family dynamics around living arrangements, to reclaiming power after a disempowering volunteer experience, and even exploring the emotional depth behind a simple craving for an apple fritter, Patricia offers an intimate and validating glimpse into what it's like to be an AuDHDer who feels things deeply—and still chooses to show up. KEY TAKEAWAYS · You don’t need to justify your needs. “They don’t have to understand why I need two months. I just do.” · High masking + high empathy often = emotional invisibility. You're not alone if you feel overlooked or undervalued. · Internalizers often seem fine while falling apart inside—naming your pain out loud is a radical act of self-love. · Disempowerment doesn’t mean you're weak. It often comes from past trauma, sensory overload, or lack of support. · Communication isn't always immediate. It’s okay if clarity or assertiveness comes a day (or three) later. · There's no such thing as “too sensitive”—just systems that weren't built for your needs. HIGHLIGHTS · Patricia emphasizes the importance of asserting one's needs without feeling apologetic. · She shares her experience of feeling disempowered in family dynamics and how she navigated that. · The conversation highlights the challenges of communication in relationships, especially for neurodivergent individuals. · Patricia discusses the significance of volunteering and how it contributes to her sense of empowerment. · She reflects on the internal struggles (and unrealistic desire) of wanting others to understand her needs without explicit communication. · The importance of processing emotions and taking time to understand one's feelings is emphasized. · Patricia shares her journey of finding strength in her volunteering experience with horses. · She discusses the impact of trauma on her ability to communicate effectively. · The conversation touches on the theme of sensitivity being a unique aspect of one's identity, not something to apologize for. · Patricia encourages listeners to embrace their sensitivity and understand its value. SOUND BITES "I need to have a meltdown." "It's my responsibility." "I felt seen and I felt heard." "I think we’ve learned to just detach from our feelings, to dissociate, and go along to get along—but it just doesn’t work for us anymore." 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. TOPICS COVERED · Autistic meltdowns & internal regulation: How Patricia recognized an impending meltdown and advocated for space and support. · Family boundaries & accommodation: The emotional toll of giving up a beloved workspace, and the grief that often goes unseen. · Losing & reclaiming joy: When creative hobbies fade and space feels scarce, how do you reconnect with yourself? · Assertiveness without apology: Speaking up about needs, even when it's hard, awkward, or overdue. · Feeling invisible in groups: Disempowerment during horse volunteer training and the journey to feeling confident and capable again. · Processing delays & trauma: Why it sometimes takes days to realize something didn’t feel okay—and that’s valid. · The donut story (yes, it matters): What a pastry can teach us about needs, unmet expectations, and healthy communication. · Relational repair & emotional safety: The delicate dance of vulnerability, misunderstanding, and being met with care. · The problem with people-pleasing: When masking and fawning keep you from honoring your own feelings. · What sensitivity really means: Reframing neurodivergent traits as strengths, not...

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: click on this link https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/unapologetically-sensitive/id1440433481?mt=2 select “listen on Apple Podcasts” chose “open in itunes” choose “ratings and reviews” click to rate the number of starts click “write a review” Website--www.unapologeticallysensitive.com Facebook-- https://www.facebook.com/Unapologetically-Sensitive-2296688923985657/ Closed/Private Facebook group Unapologetically Sensitive-- https://www.facebook.com/groups/2099705880047619/ Instagram-- https://www.instagram.com/unapologeticallysensitive/ Youtube-- 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

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...

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/ Receive the top 10 most downloaded episodes of the podcast-- https://www.subscribepage.com/e6z6e6 Sign up for the Newsletter-- https://www.subscribepage.com/y0l7d4 To write a review in itunes: click on this link https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/unapologetically-sensitive/id1440433481?mt=2 select “listen on Apple Podcasts” chose “open in itunes” choose “ratings and reviews” click to rate the number of starts click “write a review” Website--www.unapologeticallysensitive.com Facebook-- ...