The Neurodivergent Musician

In this episode of The Neurodivergent Musician, I’m joined by Ashleigh Magner, an occupational therapist with a passion for sensory processing and sensory profiling. Ashleigh shares her expertise on sensory differences and the importance of understanding your sensory profile as a powerful step toward embracing and celebrating your neurodivergent identity. We explore the common types of sensory processing differences among neurodivergent individuals and how these differences impact daily life, relationships, and creativity. Ashleigh provides practical insights on becoming more 'SENSORY AWARE'. From simple environmental tweaks to preparation routines and having coping tools on hand, she offers actionable strategies to help you proactively manage triggering environments, activities, and interactions. These tips can empower you to create more regulated, sustainable moments throughout your day. If you’re curious about how sensory awareness can support you as a neurodivergent individual, this episode is packed with actionable advice and deep understanding. You can connect with Ashleigh via email at ashleighmagnerot@gmail.com or find her on Instagram @ashleighmagnerOT (website launching soon!). Let’s continue creating ripples together. Grab my new album at ⁠⁠jonhartmusic.com/neurodivergent ⁠⁠ Are you a Neurodivergent Musician? If so, join our free peer to peer community at ⁠⁠theneurodivergentmusician.co.uk⁠⁠.

In this unique episode of The Neurodivergent Musician Podcast, the roles are reversed as the brilliant Will Luchford—coach and session guitarist—takes the interviewer’s seat. Together, we explore the concept of Service, diving deep into the heart of my latest album, podcast, and community. Will and I first crossed paths during Bloem De Wilde de Ligny and Nick Bottini’s Creative Recharge in 2023, and our connection has only grown stronger through shared experiences in Tom Fogg's Modern Man and Nick's Project Domino. In this interview, Will creates a safe and open space for me to unmask and unpack the challenges I’ve faced, especially when it comes to marketing my work authentically. This episode is an honest and raw conversation about embracing neurodiversity, the realities of ADHD, and the powerful impact of leading with service rather than sales. We reflect on building genuine connections in a world that often prioritises surface-level engagement. Listen in as we discuss: Will’s thoughtful questions and unique perspective allow me to explore my mission, movement, and message like never before. This is a conversation full of heart, humour, and profound insight into what it means to thrive as a neurodivergent creative. Let’s continue creating ripples together. Grab the new album at ⁠⁠jonhartmusic.com/neurodivergent⁠⁠ Are you a Neurodivergent Musician? If so, join our new free community at ⁠⁠theneurodivergentmusician.co.uk⁠

In this episode of The Neurodivergent Musician, I’m joined by Becky Langan, a wonderful percussive fingerstyle guitarist known for her unique style and artistry. Becky has released numerous captivating pieces, recently launched her debut album, and reached the semi-final of Guitar Star, where she was mentored by legends like George Benson, Wilko Johnson, Jon Gomm, and Preston Reed. We dive deep into Becky’s journey of receiving a late diagnosis of ADHD and Autism, exploring how it has impacted both her personal life and music career. This episode is an unfiltered, unmasked conversation that takes many unexpected turns, making it probably the most authentic and AuDHD chat I’ve ever had on the podcast. From navigating life as a neurodivergent musician to embracing her unique creative process, Becky’s story is both inspiring and relatable. If you’re looking to hear a real, honest dialogue about living and thriving as an AuDHD artist, this one’s for you. Let’s continue creating ripples together. Grab the new album at ⁠jonhartmusic.com/neurodivergent⁠ Are you a Neurodivergent Musician? If so, join our new free community at ⁠theneurodivergentmusician.co.uk

In this episode of The Neurodivergent Musician, I’m joined by Alex Dudley, also known by his producer pseudonym Xander Warren. Alex is an artist, record producer, and the founder of dAudio Music Group - an award-winning modern-day music and media collective for independent musicians. He’s been instrumental in supporting my music business and was the producer behind my latest Neurodivergent album. Together, we also co-founded The Neurodivergent Musician Community. In this conversation, we explore the unique role of the Neurodivergent Support Worker, looking at what this role involves and how it can empower neurodivergent creatives to build sustainable careers. We also discuss how collaboration and community-building can transform the music industry, sharing insights on how to create safe spaces for neurodivergent musicians to thrive. If you’re looking for ways to find or provide support within the music world, this episode is packed with inspiration and practical advice.

In this episode of The Neurodivergent Musician, I’m joined by Bloom De Wilde, an award-winning, multi-platinum-selling artist, singer-songwriter, producer, poet, visual artist, and coach. Bloom’s unique creative approach and experience are deeply influenced by her Synesthesia—a fascinating condition where senses intertwine, allowing her to see sounds, hear colours, and experience art in vivid multi-sensory dimensions. We dive into how Synaesthesia shapes her artistry and what it means for her creative process, exploring the powerful ways it can enhance both music and visual art. Along the way, we discuss broader topics such as embracing neurodiversity in the arts, finding your authentic voice, and how to channel sensory experiences into compelling creative work. If you’re interested in how neurodivergence can be a source of inspiration and transformation, this is an episode you won’t want to miss. Let’s continue creating ripples together. Grab the new album at ⁠jonhartmusic.com/neurodivergent⁠ Are you a Neurodivergent Musician? If so, join our new free community at ⁠theneurodivergentmusician.co.uk

In this episode of The Neurodivergent Musician, I’m joined by Jess Farazmand, a qualified NCPS counsellor, director of The Well Being Therapy Hut, and a specialist in Hypnotherapy and EMDR. Jess also has ADHD and extensive professional experience working with fellow ADHDers. She’s been my therapist for a while now, and her support has been truly transformative. We explore the world of ADHD therapy, breaking down what it really means to work through ADHD-specific challenges, and how therapeutic techniques like EMDR can help neurodivergent individuals process past experiences and thrive in the present. We also touch on broader mental health topics, self-compassion, and how to develop effective coping strategies as a neurodivergent creative. If you’ve ever wondered how therapy can be tailored for ADHD or how to integrate it into your own self-care journey, this episode is packed with valuable insights. Let’s continue creating ripples together. Grab the new album at ⁠jonhartmusic.com/neurodivergent⁠ Are you a Neurodivergent Musician? If so, join our new free community at ⁠theneurodivergentmusician.co.uk

In this episode of The Neurodivergent Musician, I’m joined by Sarah Jay Hawley, an accomplished singer-songwriter, session singer, performance coach, vocal coach, and author. Sarah has collaborated with legendary artists like Charles Webster, Tony Christie, and even featured on Massive Attack’s double-platinum album Mezzanine. In this conversation, we dive deep into the complex issue of bullying within the music industry, examining how it intersects with neurodiversity and what that means for neurodivergent musicians. Sarah shares her personal experiences, offers insights on how to navigate these challenges, and discusses ways to build resilience and protect your creative self. We also touch on topics like finding your authentic voice and overcoming setbacks as a neurodivergent artist. If you’re looking for ways to thrive in the music industry while staying true to yourself, this episode is a must-listen. Let’s continue creating ripples together. Grab the new album at ⁠jonhartmusic.com/neurodivergent⁠ Are you a Neurodivergent Musician? If so, join our new free community at ⁠theneurodivergentmusician.co.uk

In episode 32 of The Neurodivergent Musician, I’m joined by Tristan Hunt, a certified ADHD / Music Industry Coach with specialist ADHD training and over 20 years of experience in the music industry. Tristan, who has ADHD, dyslexia, and dyscalculia, has been my coach for a while now, and his support has been truly game-changing. We dive into how Tristan got into coaching, what coaching really is, and how it can help neurodivergent musicians thrive both creatively and professionally. We discuss the unique challenges that ADHD brings and explore practical strategies for turning those challenges into strengths. If you’re curious about the role of coaching or looking for ways to optimise your creative process, this episode is for you. Let’s continue creating ripples together. Grab the new album at ⁠jonhartmusic.com/neurodivergent⁠ Are you a Neurodivergent Musician? If so, join our new free community at ⁠theneurodivergentmusician.co.uk

In this episode, Jon dives into a project that became a defining milestone in his journey with ADHD and Autism. Although Jon had known about his Dyslexia since 2004, it wasn’t until a mental health crisis in 2021 that he discovered a much deeper layer to his neurodivergence. In December 2021, after a psychiatric assessment, he was diagnosed with AuDHD—a blend of Autism and ADHD. The revelation hit hard, triggering a deep identity crisis and leaving a massive question mark over his sense of self. While the diagnosis brought him much-needed clarity, it also led to a period of intense introspection. Jon felt overwhelmed by a flood of new information and awareness, each piece compounding inside his already busy brain. It was a time of trying to understand who he truly was and where he fit in, all while managing the aftershocks of the crisis. During his recovery, Jon turned to the one thing that had always been a constant: his guitar. He’d had this instrument since he was 8, and it had been a steady companion through many ups and downs. Even when the internal lights seemed dimmed, his fingers instinctively found their way around the strings and just started to play. It was as if the music inside him began to speak when words failed. That’s how this album was born—it became his creative outlet, while the podcast turned into a form of therapy, a way for him to process and share his story with others. But this album is so much more than just music. It’s a mission—a mission to spread awareness, offer support, and empower others navigating similar paths. It represents hope, comfort, courage, and the strength to overcome even the darkest of mental health challenges. This release is meant to be a guiding light for anyone struggling to find their way. Where words fall short, music steps in, expressing what’s often difficult to articulate. Jon created this album not just for himself, but for everyone out there who feels alone, misunderstood, or trapped in a cycle of confusion. Though he may not be physically by their side, his music, message, and mission are here to stand with them and for them. And yes, while purchasing the album supports Jon’s journey and keeps the lights on for him to continue creating, it’s about much more than that. It’s about ensuring that he can keep producing art that touches deeper themes and emotions, helping others see that they are not alone and that their experiences matter. We all need both light and dark in life, but too much darkness can make a home—or a mind—feel empty and isolating. Jon has been there himself. So, with this album, he’s extending his hand to others. Let it be a spark to reignite their own internal light, so they can recharge, heal, and share that light with those around them. This ripple of light, hope, and connection can continue long after the music ends. Jon closes with a lyric from Rivers of Gold, one of the songs on the album: “If we find our internal light, it will give us eternal life.” Eternal doesn’t just refer to the length of our lives; it’s about the impact we leave—the ripples of light and love that continue through those we touch. This is the heart of the album—a beacon for anyone seeking the courage to embrace their true, authentic selves and pass that light on. Jon thanks his listeners for being here and hopes that this episode and the album resonate deeply, offering some of the strength and encouragement he’s found along his own journey. Let’s continue creating ripples together. jonhartmusic.com/neurodivergenttheneurodivergent musician.co.uk

Are you a Neurodivergent Musician? Check out our new community at jonhartmusic.com/community In this episode of the Neurodivergent Musician Podcast, Jon Hart, a seasoned fingerstyle singer-songwriter and award-winning events musician, dives into the intricacies of touring for neurodivergent musicians. Join Jon as he shares invaluable insights on pre-tour preparation, sensory considerations, and the importance of routines on the road. Discover effective communication strategies and learn how to advocate for your unique needs. Jon also delves into the role of technology, the power of embracing neurodivergent strengths, and the significance of cultivating a supportive community. As a musician, husband, and father of two, Jon understands the challenges of balancing a music career with family life. He also recognizes the crucial role of financial planning in achieving long-term success. Tune in for expert advice on incorporating self-care and mental health practices into your touring routine, ensuring you stay at the top of your game both on and off the stage. Whether you're a budding artist or an established musician, this episode offers practical tips to enhance your touring experience and grow your music career. Don't miss out on Jon's valuable advice on reflection and continuous learning after each tour. Join us for an episode packed with actionable strategies to help you navigate the world of touring as a neurodivergent musician. For more insightful episodes and resources, visit jonhartmusic.com and follow him on @jonhartmusic. Remember, you're not alone in this journey. Support the podcast at jonhartmusic.com/podcast. Let's create, perform, and thrive together!

Are you a Neurodivergent Musician? Check out our new community at jonhartmusic.com/community Join Jon in this insightful episode as he unravels the art of collaboration among neurodivergent musicians. From songwriting to recording and releasing music together, discover the keys to a harmonious creative process. Gain valuable tips on effective communication, setting boundaries, and celebrating individual strengths. Tune in to enhance your collaborative skills and unlock the full potential of your musical endeavours.

Are you a Neurodivergent Musician? Check out our new community at jonhartmusic.com/community Join host Jon Hart as he explores the world of performance tailored for neurodivergent musicians. In this episode, we'll guide you through setting up, soundchecking, and the art of connecting with your audience. Discover valuable insights to make every performance a memorable one.

Are you a Neurodivergent Musician? Check out our new community at jonhartmusic.com/community In this episode, host Jon Hart delves into the intricacies of recording and mixing, tailored for neurodivergent musicians. From creating a sensory-friendly recording space to advanced mixing techniques, discover valuable insights to enhance your music production journey. Embrace your neurodivergence as a unique strength, and create music that resonates with your individuality. Tune in for expert tips and a deeper understanding of the recording process.

Are you a Neurodivergent Musician? Check out our new community at jonhartmusic.com/community In this illuminating episode of The Neurodivergent Musician Podcast, hosted by Jon Hart, we explore the world of songwriting and composing through the lens of neurodivergence.

Are you a Neurodivergent Musician? Check out our new community at jonhartmusic.com/community As creators who wear multiple hats, from crafting melodies that touch the soul to mastering intricate techniques that captivate audiences, we've all encountered the elusive spectre of procrastination. Join us as we explore the intricate dance between creativity and procrastination and how being neurodivergent might influence our experiences.

Are you a Neurodivergent Musician? Check out our new community at jonhartmusic.com/community In this episode of The Neurodivergent Musician Podcast, host Jon Hart takes us on a captivating journey through the intricate world of impulsivity. Join us as we delve into the core of what impulsivity is, why understanding it matters, and how we can master the art of managing its diverse manifestations in our lives. From impulsive decisions in music creation and career choices to the dynamics of relationships and coping with addiction, Jon sheds light on the positives and pitfalls of impulsivity. Discover how this trait weaves its threads through various aspects of our lives and explore strategies to harness its power while staying grounded. Tune in for an insightful exploration of impulsivity's impact on our unique neurodivergent journeys.

Are you a Neurodivergent Musician? Check out our new community at jonhartmusic.com/community Ever felt like your emotions are a runaway train when you're creating music? You're not alone, especially if you're a neurodivergent musician. That's emotional dysregulation, and it can affect your artistry in profound ways. Let's take a heart-to-heart walk through the complexities of emotional dysregulation, exploring how it can amplify the music-making process and even intensify our insecurities. As someone who has experienced these passionate states, I’ll share my personal journey and strategies that can help harness this energy into creating meaningful and authentic music. The voyage doesn't stop at understanding emotional dysregulation. We also need to find our balance in an often discordant world. Every neurodivergent musician navigates a unique set of sensitivities and experiences that can lead to feelings of disconnection. It's crucial to realize that this is a part of our journey and not a hindrance. So, let's talk about how to cope with the frustration of grasping concepts beyond our known sphere, and discuss the importance of gaining a bird's eye view on our emotional states. Here's to all the neurodivergent musicians out there, finding their balance between reactivity and mindfulness, and creating a symphony of emotions through their music.

Are you a Neurodivergent Musician? Check out our new community at jonhartmusic.com/community Ever wonder how neurodivergent musicians navigate the journey of their craft, particularly with the challenges of executive function? What if you could unlock the strategies that help manage these hurdles and lead to a successful music career? This episode of Neurodivergent Musician sheds light on these questions, giving you a front-row seat to a conversation that unravels the complexities of the musical journey through a neurodivergent lens. From struggles with consistency in practice to difficulties with focus, time management, and organization, we leave no stone unturned.Imagine executive function as the conductor of our mental orchestra, gently guiding us along our creative journey. But when the conductor has a different neurological script, the journey isn't always straightforward. We dive into the heart of the matter, discussing challenges neurodivergent musicians face, such as task initiation, follow through on commitments, and self-monitoring. We also highlight practical strategies such as creating a structured routine, breaking tasks into manageable chunks, and harnessing the power of visuals. But we go beyond the hurdles, offering a beacon of hope and resilience. We touch on the importance of mental health, the battle against overwhelm, and the pursuit of balance. We emphasize the value of self-awareness, positivity, and self-compassion when dealing with additional responsibilities and pressures. Furthermore, we delve into the merits of having a support network and share resources such as project management tools and visual aids. By the end of our discourse, you'll have a wealth of insights, whether you're a neurodivergent musician or someone looking to understand and support one. Get ready for a deep dive into the world of neurodivergent musicians.

Are you a Neurodivergent Musician? Check out our new community at jonhartmusic.com/community Experience a journey through the labyrinth of social cues as we, your hosts, unpack the challenges faced by neurodivergent musicians. This episode serves as a compass, pointing you towards strategies that improve understanding and navigation of this complex form of communication. We emphasize the importance of practising self-compassion and striving to educate others about the unique lens through which we perceive social signals. We believe that embracing our distinctive perspectives can transform social interactions from daunting to enriching. Ever felt overwhelmed by social interactions? You're not alone. We explore practical techniques to cope with social anxiety and to improve communication. Learn about the power of pausing and reflecting, using soundscapes and double breaths, and the importance of seeking clarification. We provide recommendations and insights on how you can increase your comfort level with social interactions through regular practice and support. Finally, we share actionable strategies for managing social cues, such as the "traffic light system" and utilizing fidget toys as coping mechanisms. As neurodivergent musicians, having a supportive system is crucial. We present ideas on how to develop this system and emphasize the importance of hydration before, during, and after social situations. Understanding social cues may be a symphony filled with intricate melodies, but together, we can harmonize our unique tunes in this social interaction orchestra. Tune in and let's master this art together.Support the showThanks so much for listening.

Are you a Neurodivergent Musician? Check out our new community at jonhartmusic.com/community Imagine being on a plane, the temperature fluctuating and every shift sending tingles down your spine. It's not the altitude, but an embodiment of sensory overload, a reality for many neurodiverse individuals like me. This episode tackles the complex world of sensory overload, particularly how it impacts the daily lives of neurodiverse folks. We delve into the root causes, from the brain's unique processing of sensory information to environmental and emotional variables. I share tried and tested strategies for managing this often overwhelming experience, like fostering self-awareness, regulating sensory input, and designing sensory-friendly environments. Ever wondered how ordinary scenarios, like family disagreements or weather changes, can trigger sensory overload? As we explore the impact of sensory overload on daily life, I unravel my own experiences, touching on heightened senses of smell, taste, temperature, and the physical sensations that come along. Most importantly, we discuss how to recognize the brink of sensory overload before it escalates. Navigating neurodivergent sensory disorders is no easy feat but understanding and treating ourselves should be our main goal. I share my personal journey of living with sensory overload, shedding light on practical coping mechanisms. From the role of medication to the therapeutic effect of breaks and environmental changes, we discuss various tools to lessen the intensity of sensory overload. Lastly, we touch on some simple yet powerful strategies to find relief, like chewing gum, earplugs, noise-canceling headphones, and even small tweaks to your living space.