Neuroversity

SEASON THREE PREMIERE!! What if the key to unlocking the brilliance of an autistic child lies in focusing on their strengths rather than their challenges? This episode, Jessica is joined by Dr. Lynn Koegel, a leading figure in autism education, who has passionately championed a shift from the deficit model to a strengths-based approach in teaching autistic children. Her latest book, "Hidden Brilliance: Unlocking the Intelligence of Autism," co-authored with Claire LaZebnik, is a testament to this belief, bringing to light the potential within these unique children that often goes unrecognized. Follow Neuroversity on all our social platforms: Neuroversity Website IG Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Patreon

Summer school sessions are coming to an end, so why not re-visit a season one episode on “Back to School”? As the dog days of summer wind down, it’s time for many of us to turn our attention on to three dreaded words, “back to school”, or maybe they’re you’re favorite three words! Who am I to judge? One thing that is certain, it’s a transition, and transitions do not always go smoothly. Especially in my neurodivergent household. But regardless of the neurodivergence that is in your household, here are some helpful tips that could make back to school a little less rocky. And be sure to let me know what works for you and/or your neurodivergent household. There are all sorts of minds and all sorts of ways to communicate. I'm sharing ours. Would love to hear what works for you! Follow Neuroversity on all our social platforms: Neuroversity Website IG Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Patreon

In this session of Neuroversity Summer School, host Jessica Kidwell reviews Holly Smale's 'Cassandra in Reverse'. This book weaves the tale of Cassandra, a neurodivergent protagonist whose autism isn't her central focus, but a part of her multiple layers. From its take on autistic experiences to the author's own neurodiversity, this novel is a refreshing portrayal of the neurodivergent perspective. This book is an essential read not just for the neurodivergent, but for anyone seeking a fresh, authentic perspective. You might have just discovered your next summer read! About the Author: Holly Smale has been writing stories since she was four years old: constructing her own books from cereal boxes and a lot of sticky-tape, then forcing family readers to give her glowing reviews by standing in front of the television. Her path to publication included teen-modelling, factory-work, PR, teaching in Japan and a chaotic stint as the world's worst waitress, along with a BA in English Literature and an MA in Shakespeare from Bristol University. She uses neither of these qualifications on a daily basis, but still brings them up at parties. ​ Her debut children's novel, GEEK GIRL, became the No.1 Young Adult title in the UK and won the Waterstones YA Book Prize, selling 3.4 million books in 30 languages. It is currently in development with Netflix. At the age of 39, Holly was diagnosed as both autistic and dyspraxic. She writes and speaks passionately about neurodiversity and a lot of random topics she's not really qualified to talk about yet does anyway. https://www.hollysmale.com/ Buy the book here: https://www.harpercollins.com/products/cassandra-in-reverse-holly-smale?variant=40900522541090 https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/cassandra-in-reverse-holly-smale/1142412324 Non US Version: https://www.amazon.com/Cassandra-Complex-Holly-Smale-ebook/dp/B0B3SXPRCV Follow Neuroversity on all our social platforms: Neuroversity Website IG Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Patreon

Do you ever find yourself stumbling over the distinction between person-first and identity-first language? I certainly do. That's why the first session of Neuroversity Summer School is about the nuances of these two linguistic approaches, particularly in the context of neurodiversity. I revisited an interview I had from Season 1 Episode 5 with political journalist and author, Eric Garcia, who shares his personal perspective on these matters, shedding light on the importance of individual preference in identifying oneself. While some may argue that all this might sound too technical, let me assure you, it's a compelling conversation that challenges the way we think about autism and neurodiversity. I delve into the complexities of these two forms of language and their influences on how we perceive neurodivergence. The discussion is far from over, though. I encourage you to join in and share your thoughts on these language preferences. Remember, it's not about choosing sides, but understanding and respecting people's choices in how they want to be identified. Follow Neuroversity on all our social platforms: Neuroversity Website IG Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Patreon

***BONUS CONTENT*** It may be summer time for most of us, but the learning won't stop at Neuroversity! Join me as we get "back to basics" at Neuroversity with a special set of "Summer School Sessions" to get us through July and August and help prevent the dreaded summer slide of learning. Find out what types of episodes you can expect over the next two months AND how you can help guide the syllabus. Follow Neuroversity on all our social platforms: Neuroversity Website IG Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Patreon

Have you heard these myths about dyslexia? These myths can be damaging to individuals with dyslexia, causing low self-esteem and a lack of empowerment. The truth is, dyslexia affects reading, writing, and spelling, but it does not reflect intelligence. Furthermore, dyslexia is a lifelong condition that can also bring unique strengths and talents. Join memoirist Ellen Busch as she shares her personal journey with dyslexia and how she has turned it into her advantage. In this episode, you will be able to: Meet Ellen Busch, an inspiring memoirist whose lived experience with dyslexia has transformed her into a strong advocate for neurodiversity. In her memoir, Disempowered: How I Turned an Academic Death Sentence into My Life's Greatest Adventure, Ellen recounts the struggles she faced throughout her education and how she eventually earned not only a bachelor's degree in Health Science but also an MBA from Southern New Hampshire University. As a former EMT and adventurer with hobbies ranging from scuba diving to skiing, Ellen is determined to uplift other dyslexic individuals and help them embrace their unique strengths. https://www.amazon.com/dis-Empowered-Academic-Sentence-Adventure-ebook/dp/B0BZ5PG9NY/ref=sr_1_fkmr2_1?crid=5DNSK88VJGM0&keywords=ellen+busch+disempowered&qid=1680810170&sprefix=ellen+busch+disempowered%2Caps%2C343&sr=8-1-fkmr2https://www.amazon.com/Dyslexic-Advantage-Revised-Updated-Unlocking/dp/0593472233/ref=sr_1_1?crid=32CTLKGCWM884&keywords=dyslexic+advantage+book&qid=1686273694&sprefix=dyslexic%2Caps%2C118&sr=8-1https://www.amazon.com/Anatomy-Coloring-Book-Wynn-Kapit/dp/0321832019/ref=sr_1_3?crid=3BVNUUGYPNDVC&keywords=anatomy+coloring+book&qid=1686273764&sprefix=anatomy%2Caps%2C107&sr=8-3https://www.ellenbusch.com/ Follow Neuroversity on all our social platforms: Neuroversity Website IG Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Patreon

Meet Dr. Casey Ehrlich, a mother and researcher delving into the little-known condition called Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA). As she explains the complex nervous system response that triggers PDA, we're left wondering how many more people are suffering from this condition without proper recognition or support. In this episode, you will be able to: · Identify the distinct characteristics of PDA and ODD diagnoses. · Grasp the importance of building secure, trust-filled environments for children with PDA. · Understand the use of declarative language for improved PDA communication. · Learn about Dr. Ehrlich's approaches for families raising PDA children. About this week's guest: Dr. Casey Ehrlich is a compassionate coach for parents raising children with Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA). With a doctorate from the University of Wisconsin Madison, her background in social science and methodology brings a unique perspective to her work. Dr. Ehrlich has gained invaluable insights through her research on conflict, peace, and nonviolence in areas impacted by civil war in Colombia. As a co-founder of the PDA Parents Community and Podcast, she uses her expertise to help parents navigate the challenges of raising children with hypersensitive nervous systems, fight, flight, and freeze behaviors, and trauma. You can find more information about her programs at www.atpeaceparents.com Resources mentioned in this episode: PDA Society https://www.pdasociety.org.uk/ Tilt Parenting Podcast: https://tiltparenting.com/podcast-about-children-with-learning-disabilities/ Steve Silberman: https://www.stevesilberman.com/books/ Rachel Dorsey: https://dorseyslp.com/ Tiffany Hammond aka Fidgets and Fries https://www.instagram.com/fidgets.and.fries/ Dr. Mona Delahooke: https://monadelahooke.com/books/ Follow Neuroversity on all our social platforms: Neuroversity Website IG Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Patreon

The public school system in the United States has historically been built to support the success of one type of student: a typically developing student with average intellectual ability. And, unfortunately, any student who falls outside of this type has a much harder time thriving in a system that is not built for them. Fairfax County Public Schools in Virginia, one of the largest school systems in the US, is trying to expand the success of more of their students by being one of the first systems in the country to create a neurodiversity specialist. Join Jessica Kidwell as she talks with Kristen Haynor, Neurodiversity Specialist for Fairfax County Public Schools, about this new position and how she is trying to change the culture of this school system in hopes to create a system that truly celebrates all types of students. Key Moments: [00:00:18] Neurodiversity in Public Schools. [00:08:36] Neurodivergent students and equity. [00:17:32] Understanding neurodivergent behaviors. [00:21:56] Supporting neurodiversity in education. About Kristen Haynor: Kristen Haynor is the Neurodiversity Specialist for Fairfax County Pubic Schools in the state of Virginia, which is one of the largest public school systems in the United States. Kristen, who is neurodivergent herself, is a graduate of the FCPS school system. After graduating from Madison High School, Kristen received a bachelors degree in Biology from the University of Mary Washington, her Master’s degree in Special Education from George Mason University, and is currently pursuing her PhD in International Education. Follow Neuroversity on all our social platforms: Neuroversity Website IG Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Patreon

In this episode of Neuroversity, host Jessica Kidwell interviews Emily Barth Isler, a writer and sustainability beauty journalist who has obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) and synesthesia. They discuss Emily's experience with OCD before and after diagnosis, how she structures her life to live in partnership with OCD, and her neurodivergent identity under the neurodiversity umbrella. It is the second of two episodes featuring Emily's insights. Highlights: [00:01:59] Understanding Neurodivergence. [00:03:58] OCD and creativity. [00:08:37] Writing about painful experiences. [00:12:15] OCD and anxiety coexisting. [00:18:38] Living with OCD. [00:22:08] Neurodiversity in younger generations. [00:25:06] OCD as a gift. Follow Neuroversity on all our social platforms: Neuroversity Website IG Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Patreon

In this episode of Neuroversity, Jessica Kidwell interviews Emily Barth Isler, a former child actress and writer for YA short stories and plays as well as a sustainable beauty journalist. Emily also has OCD and synesthesia. In this first of a two episode conversation, Emily and Jessica discuss Emily's award-winning debut novel Aftermath which explores themes of loss, mental health, gun control and neurodiversity. They also discuss the inclusion of neurodivergent characters in media, Emily's journey of writing the novel, and her experience talking to kids affected by the book. Key moments: 00:10:03 Starting conversations on trauma. 00:16:29 Parents cannot protect kids from news. 00:21:04 The character Lucy as a neurodivergent archetype. 00:24:01 How diversity benefits all audiences. More about Emily Barth Isler: A writer, Middle Grade Fiction Author, and sustainability/beauty journalist, Emily is a former child actress who has performed all over the world in theatre, film, and TV. She spent several years in New York writing episodic television for the web with Emmy-award winning PhoebeTV, and a lifetime writing YA short stories and plays. Emily holds a B.A. in Film Studies from Wesleyan University, where she took all the creative writing classes she could find, including one which was taught by none other than Lemony Snicket himself! Her debut novel, AfterMath, came out in September 2021, and her work as a Beauty Editor/Writer can be seen online in many publications. She lives in Los Angeles with her husband and two children. Follow Neuroversity on all our social platforms: Neuroversity Website IG Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Patreon

It’s April, which means Autism Awareness Month. And April 2nd is World Autism Awareness Day. So I thought it would be a great time to re-visit episode 22 from Season 1, where I talk ALL about the complicated feelings this month can bring. There is a lot of background and history surrounding this month-and this episode was my attempt to learn a little about at it all. On this episode you will learn: Links to sources cited in this episode: UN World Autism Awareness Day 2023 https://www.un.org/en/observances/autism-day Moving from awareness to acceptance article by Emily Willingham https://www.forbes.com/sites/emilywillingham/2017/04/01/no-foolin-forget-about-autism-awareness-and-lighting-up-blue/?sh=3a1308214aac History on Autism Awareness Month and Autism Speaks https://www.verywellhealth.com/should-you-celebrate-autism-awareness-month-4134347 Autism Speaks Board of Directors https://www.autismspeaks.org/board-directors Autistic Self Advocacy Network (ASAN) link to Autism Acceptance Month: https://autismacceptance.com The Autism Society: https://autismsociety.org/who-we-are/ Thinking Person’s Guide to Autism: https://thinkingautismguide.com/ Follow Neuroversity on all our social platforms: Neuroversity Website IG Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Patreon

Welcome to Season 2! Today we are talking about "burnout". Specifically autistic burnout, and how it differs from neurotypical understanding of burnout. Joining me is Dr. Megan Anna Neff, a clinical psychologist working in Oregon. She specializes in working with neurodivergent adults and provides neurodivergent affirming assessments. And she has a special interest in autistic burnout. Key Moments: 00:06:32 Burnout can lead to depression. 00:07:03 Autistic burnout: exhaustion, skills loss, sensitivities. 00:14:04 Sensory sensitivities can cause burnout. 00:20:04 Autistic people more vulnerable to chronic conditions. 00:31:07 Prevent burnout through universal design. 00:36:39 Find supports and accommodations. 00:38:08 Heal with nature and body. About the Guest: Dr. Megan Anna Neff is a clinical psychologist working in Oregon. She specializesin working with neurodivergent adults and provides neurodivergent affirming assessments. They are a late in life diagnosed Autistic-ADHDer who is passionate about educating the mental health field on non-stereotypical presentations of autism and ADHD. Neff has co-authored two books, and published in several peer-reviewed psychological journals. They have a passion for research and for translating research into visualization which she provides on her website, Instagram and monthly workbooks. You can also find their work at www.neurodivergentinsights.com or on instagram (@Neurodivergent_Insights). Resources cited in the episode: Raymaker et al research on Autistic Burnout: “Having All of Your Internal Resources Exhausted Beyond Measure and Being Left with No Clean-Up Crew: Defining Autistic Burnout." https://www.liebertpub.com/doi/full/10.1089/aut.2019.0079 Free PDFs available on Neurodivergent Insights site Autism in Adulthood https://home.liebertpub.com/publications/autism-in-adulthood/646 Increased Chance for Chronic Diseases article Follow Neuroversity on all our social platforms: Neuroversity Website IG Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Patreon

What better way to celebrate our first year than to revisit with our favorite guests! And we open with my two favorite guests EVER: Grace and Charlie Kidwell. But, I'm not just revisiting with the two guests that live with me, we hear from many of our incredible season one guests! And we also heard from listeners about what should be covered on season two. Come join us for a look back on the first season of Neuroversity! Follow Neuroversity on all our social platforms: Neuroversity Website IG Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Patreon

Neuroversity is celebrating ONE YEAR of elevating neurodivergent voices and experiences-and I think that is a call to celebrate! And what better way to celebrate than with a special birthday celebration. So coming soon, on 11/25/22, we will do just that! I will revisit some past guests, talk about episodes and topics I loved, as well as topics I hope to cover more in the next season. And I want YOU to be a part of the festivities. You can either fill out the google form linked below, OR email me a voice note of your thoughts to neuroversitypod@gmail.com and you may just end up a part of the show! I want to hear from YOU!! https://forms.gle/tGrCHYPybMpqerWd8 Follow Neuroversity on all our social platforms: Neuroversity Website IG Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Patreon

Whether you are finding this in October, for ADHD Awareness Month, or just coming across this episode now; consider this a great place to start in gaining an introduction to ADHD. In this episode you will learn: **Neuroversity is not a place that provides diagnoses, just a space to provide information and support. The resources cited in this episode are: https://chadd.org/about-adhd/overview/ https://chadd.org/for-adults/overview/ https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/adhd/data.html https://chadd.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/Finding-a-Professional-to-Diagnose-Treat-ADHD_QF.pdf Follow Neuroversity on all our social platforms: Neuroversity Website IG Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Patreon

What do you think of when you hear the word "masking"? Since it's October, perhaps your thoughts go to Halloween and costumes? Or perhaps, if you are into self-care, you may think of skin care? Or in our post COVID world, maybe you think of face masks? But none of those are the masking we are talking about in Neuroversity this week. In psychology, masking refers to changing one’s behavior or natural personality to conform to social pressures or expectations. And for many marginalized communities, masking can be necessary for survival. Guided by the work of Devon Price, PhD and their book “Unmasking Autism: Discovering the New Faces of Neurodiversity”, Jessica Kidwell takes a look at the types of masking done by neurodivergent individuals and the harmful impacts that it can have Resources used in this episode: Devon Price, PhD interview on NPR https://www.npr.org/2022/04/14/1092869514/unmasking-autism-more-inclusive-world Massachusetts General Hospital study: "Why do those with autism avoid eye contact? Imaging studies reveal overactivation of subcortical brain structures in response to direct gaze." ScienceDaily ScienceDaily, 15 June 2017. https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2017/06/170615213252.htm Follow Neuroversity on all our social platforms: Neuroversity Website IG Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Patreon

Saira Nagda is a high school senior, looking towards her future and making a difference in her community. She is a captain of her Varsity Cross Country and Track Team. She is on the leadership board for her school's One Love Club, which educates students on what are healthy and unhealthy relationships. She founded the non-profit organization, RePlay-It, which collects gently used and new sports equipment and distributes it to children globally to encourage more involvement of sport, especially for young girls. And she has Tourette Syndrome. Diagnosed at age 7, Saira now serves as a Youth Ambassador for the Tourette Association of America, where she helps educate others on, and dispel the myths about Tourette Syndrome. I'm so grateful to Saira for sitting down with me to have a conversation about Tourette Syndrome; what it is, what it isn't, and how it has helped form her into the activated and incredible young woman she is today. Support the show: https://www.neuroversitypod.com/resources Follow Neuroversity on all our social platforms: Neuroversity Website IG Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Patreon

*Disclaimer: if your child has been diagnosed with SPD, or you suspect they have SPD, the best place to begin with any type of diagnostic or treatment plans is with an Occupational Therapist trained in sensory integration. I am not an OT, and the information in this podcast series should not be used in any way to diagnose you or your child. In part three of our 3 part series on SPD, the focus today will be on developing a well rounded sensory diet and where the research on SPD is headed. You will learn: Support the show by subscribing to the website! https://www.neuroversitypod.com/ Building a Sensory Diet: https://www.theottoolbox.com/what-is-sensory-diet/ What's Next in SPD Research: https://neurodevelopment.ucsf.edu/neurodevelopment https://sensoryhealth.org/basic/our-research-priorities https://sensoryhealth.org/basic/co-morbidity Follow Neuroversity on all our social platforms: Neuroversity Website IG Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Patreon

*Disclaimer: if your child has been diagnosed with SPD, or you suspect they have SPD, the best place to begin with any type of diagnostic or treatment plans is with an Occupational Therapist trained in sensory integration. I am not an OT, and the information in this podcast series should not be used in any way to diagnose you or your child. In part two of our series on SPD, you will learn about: Support the show by subscribing to the website! https://www.neuroversitypod.com/ Learn more about SPD: https://sensoryhealth.org/ https://out-of-sync-child.com/ Learn about the sub-types of SPD: https://sensoryhealth.org/basic/subtypes-of-spd The Debate Over Sensory Processing Disorder: https://childmind.org/article/the-debate-over-sensory-processing/ Follow Neuroversity on all our social platforms: Neuroversity Website IG Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Patreon

*Disclaimer: if your child has been diagnosed with SPD, or you suspect they have SPD, the best place to begin with any type of diagnostic or treatment plans is with an Occupational Therapist trained in sensory integration. I am not an OT, and the information in this podcast series should not be used in any way to diagnose you or your child. Today starts a special weekly series I will be doing on SPD - Sensory Processing Disorder. This is an absolutely huge topic and there is more and more research and discoveries happening with sensory processing every single day. That’s why I’m going to break it up into parts. On today's episode, I introduce what is SPD as well as the EIGHT senses of our body. Yes, I said eight. Additional episodes will look at: Today's episode featured information from: Carol Stock Kranowitz https://out-of-sync-child.com/ The Interoceptive System https://www.spdstar.org/sites/default/files/file-attachments/Interoception_Info_Sheet_7_17_0.pdf Join the mailing list and support the show! https://www.neuroversitypod.com/ Follow Neuroversity on all our social platforms: Neuroversity Website IG Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Patreon