Podcast
The Neurodivergent Lens
Hosted by Dyscourse · EN
If many podcasts explain what neurodiversity is, The Neurodivergent Lens explores what the world looks like when you genuinely listen. Through conversations with individuals of lived and professional experience, The Neurodivergent Lens explores the realities of dyslexic and neurodivergent lives, aiming to educate, reduce stigma, and foster a more inclusive and nuanced understanding of neurodivergence.
7episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
The Truth About Neurodivergent Empathy
3w ago00:13:26Summary readyDo neurodivergent people lack empathy? It's one of the most damaging and persistent myths out there - particularly about autistic individuals. In Episode 5, we challenge that assumption head on, exploring how empathy is genuinely felt and expressed across neurodivergence, and why so much of the misunderstanding comes down to difference, not deficit.What This Episode CoversIn this episode, we discuss:The myth that autistic and neurodivergent people lack empathyWhy empathy is experienced and expressed in many different waysThe spectrum of neurodivergent traits - the "television pixels" analogyHow relating through your own example can be misread as self-centredCognitive empathy vs affective empathy explainedHeightened sensory responses and intuitive feelingHow lived experience can deepen empathic capacityWhy neurodivergent people often empathise easily with each otherThe role of intuition in empathyReciprocal empathy - and the neurotypical expectations around itCuriosity over judgement when empathy looks differentExpressive vs internalised empathy in relationshipsHow misunderstanding fuels conflict - and why communication matters mostThis episode is for: Neurodivergent individuals who've been wrongly labelled as lacking empathy. Educators, leaders, and clinicians wanting to challenge outdated assumptions. Anyone exploring autism, ADHD, and the realities of neurodivergent emotional experience.Guest: Emma Lord-JenkinsFounder of Rethink Inclusion, Emma provides consultancy and neurodiversity training informed by both professional and lived experience. As a late-diagnosed ADHDer, she is passionate about creating inclusive workplaces and removing barriers for neurodivergent people.Find Emma here:Website | LinkedIn | Instagram (@rethink_inclusion)Timestamps00:00 Introduction 00:32 The empathy debate & common misconceptions 00:59 Understanding the spectrum - the television analogy 01:52 Empathy is experienced & expressed in many ways 02:08 Misconceptions across different neurodivergent traits 03:03 Relating through your own example - mirroring 04:12 Cognitive empathy vs affective empathy 05:12 Heightened sensory responses & intuitive feeling 06:16 How lived experience can deepen empathy 07:11 Neurotypical vs neurodivergent - relating to each other 07:55 Intuition and empathy 08:18 Autistic people do feel & have empathy 09:19 The importance of reciprocal empathy 09:45 Curiosity over judgement 10:39 Expressive vs internalised empathy 11:17 Empathy, relationships & misunderstanding 12:17 Communication & asking better questions 12:51 Outro Why This MattersThe belief that neurodivergent people - and autistic people in particular - lack empathy is not only inaccurate, it's harmful. It shapes how people are judged, treated, and understood in workplaces, relationships, and society. This episode reframes empathy as something felt and expressed in diverse ways, challenging stigma and opening up a more compassionate, curious conversation.About The Neurodivergent LensA video podcast exploring neurodivergence through conversations with lived and professional experience. We challenge assumptions, reduce stigma, and promote a more inclusive, strengths-based understanding. This podcast is brought to you by Dyscourse - a consultancy, training, and mentoring organisation empowering neurodivergent individuals and organisations. Find out more: https://dyscourse.orgKeywordsNeurodivergent empathy | Autism and empathy | Do autistic people have empathy | Cognitive empathy | Affective empathy | Empathy misconceptions | Double empathy problem | Neurodivergent vs neurotypical | Heightened sensory response | Reciprocal empathy | ADHD empathy | Autism myths | Neurodivergent communication | Neurodiversity | Lived experienceSpecial Thanks:Sue McMillan - Strumhum Creatives (production, editing, music), Hannah Taylor - The Lens Box (filming, photography), Emma Lord-Jenkins (guest)Watch, Listen & ConnectWatch & Subscribe on YouTube: @TheNeurodivergentLensPodcastWebsite: https://dyscourse.org/podcastApple Podcasts: https://apple.co/4wVeWmSSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6Vzy9a6fLbo3YnmNUuiM43Download our free PDF guide on Myths & Misconceptions: https://dyscourse.org/ (above footer)Follow:Instagram: @the.neurodivergent.lensLinkedIn: DyscourseFacebook: TheNeurodivergentLensDisclaimer:This content is for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional support. Please seek qualified guidance where needed.
SummaryWhy time feels different when you’re neurodivergent
May 2000:19:06Summary readyDoes time feel like your enemy? In Episode 4, we explore why neurodivergent individuals experience time so differently - from time blindness and hyperfocus to punctuality, executive functioning, and the shame of never quite keeping up.We cover: time slippage vs time management, why the language matters, time blindness and the neurodivergent brain, hyperfocus and losing track of time completely, the shame around needing support with something "everyone else can do", practical strategies including the Pomodoro technique, contingency planning and setting alarms, how COVID changed workplace expectations, and how unstructured time can become a genuine neurodivergent strength.👤 Guest: Emma Lord-Jenkins Founder of Rethink Inclusion - neurodiversity consultancy and training informed by lived and professional experience. As a late-diagnosed ADHDer, Emma is passionate about creating inclusive workplaces and removing barriers for neurodivergent people.This episode is for neurodivergent individuals who've struggled with time and punctuality, and for employers, educators, and HR professionals wanting to better understand and support neurodivergent people.📌 Brought to you by Dyscourse — empowering neurodivergent individuals and organisations. https://dyscourse.orgWatch, Listen & ConnectWatch & Subscribe on YouTube: @TheNeurodivergentLensPodcastWebsite: https://dyscourse.org/podcastApple Podcasts: https://apple.co/4wVeWmSSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6Vzy9a6fLbo3YnmNUuiM43Download our free PDF guide on Myths & Misconceptions: https://dyscourse.org/ (above footer)Follow:Instagram: @the.neurodivergent.lensLinkedIn: DyscourseFacebook: TheNeurodivergentLensDisclaimer:This content is for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional support. Please seek qualified guidance where needed.
SummaryWhy Do Neurodivergent Individuals Experience Decision Paralysis?
Apr 2900:24:34Summary readyWhy Do Neurodivergent Individuals Experience Decision Paralysis?Do you freeze when faced with a decision? In Episode 3, we explore decision paralysis and the "don't knows" - unpacking why neurodivergent individuals are disproportionately affected, how alexithymia, shame, and anxiety intersect, and what self-understanding and psychological safety can unlock.In this episode, we discuss: decision paralysis and alexithymia, nervous system shutdown and overwhelm, the duality of shutdown vs impulsive over-commitment, rejection sensitivity, shame and trauma, processing speed and working memory, the ADHD brain and decision-making, psychological safety, reasonable adjustments at work, and self-coaching strategies.👤 Guest: Emma Lord-Jenkins Founder of Rethink Inclusion — neurodiversity consultancy and training informed by lived and professional experience. As a late-diagnosed ADHDer, Emma is passionate about creating inclusive workplaces and removing barriers for neurodivergent people.This episode is for neurodivergent individuals who've felt frozen or overwhelmed, and for educators, leaders, and HR professionals wanting to better support neurodivergent people.📌 Brought to you by Dyscourse - a consultancy, training, and mentoring organisation empowering neurodivergent individuals and organisations. https://dyscourse.orgWatch, Listen & ConnectWatch & Subscribe on YouTube: @TheNeurodivergentLensPodcastWebsite: https://dyscourse.org/podcastApple Podcasts: https://apple.co/4wVeWmSSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6Vzy9a6fLbo3YnmNUuiM43Download our free PDF guide on Myths & Misconceptions: https://dyscourse.org/ (above footer)Follow:Instagram: @the.neurodivergent.lensLinkedIn: DyscourseFacebook: TheNeurodivergentLensDisclaimer:This content is for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional support. Please seek qualified guidance where needed.
SummaryDoes the Shame of Being Neurodivergent Hold You Back?
Apr 800:24:10Summary readyEpisode SummaryDoes shame hold neurodivergent people back? In Episode 2, we unpack the links between shame, trauma, bias, disclosure, and self-worth, while also exploring resilience, creativity, advocacy, and what becomes possible on the other side of shame.What We CoverHow shame can shape the neurodivergent experienceThe link between shame, trauma, and the internal criticHealthy shame vs toxic shameSelf-esteem, inferiority, and feeling held backVisibility of traits, disclosure, and workplace challengesJob interviews, communication differences, and body languageCultural bias, affinity bias, and barriers to inclusionDyslexia, disclosure, and neurodivergence in employmentIntersectionality and overlapping lived experiencesNeurodivergence in prisons and wider systemic inequalityMedication, chemical sensitivity, and individual differencesSelf-advocacy, finding your voice, and building confidenceResilience and creativityPeople pleasing and trouble saying “no”Authenticity, reframing, and what can lie on the other side of shame About the GuestEmma Lord-Jenkins is the founder of Rethink Inclusion, providing consultancy and neurodiversity training informed by both professional and lived experience.With a background in careers guidance and supported employment, and as a late-diagnosed ADHDer, Emma is passionate about creating inclusive workplaces and removing barriers for neurodivergent people across all areas of life.Find Emma:Website: Rethink InclusionLinkedIn: Emma Lord | LinkedInInstagram: @rethink_inclusion Why This Conversation MattersNeurodivergent individuals are too often misunderstood through deficit-based narratives and outdated assumptions. In this episode, we explore the relationship between shame and neurodivergence through lived experience, challenging stigma and inviting more inclusive ways of thinking. About The Neurodivergent LensThe Neurodivergent Lens is a video podcast exploring neurodivergence through thoughtful conversations and lived experience.Through interviews with individuals of lived and professional insight, the podcast challenges assumptions, reduces stigma, and promotes a strengths-based understanding of neurodivergent identity.This podcast is brought to you by Dyscourse — a consultancy, training and mentoring organisation working to change how society understands and supports neurodivergent people.Watch, Listen & ConnectWatch & Subscribe on YouTube: @TheNeurodivergentLensPodcastWebsite: https://dyscourse.org/podcastApple Podcasts: https://apple.co/4wVeWmSSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6Vzy9a6fLbo3YnmNUuiM43Download our free PDF guide on Myths & Misconceptions: https://dyscourse.org/ (above footer)Follow:Instagram: @the.neurodivergent.lensLinkedIn: DyscourseFacebook: TheNeurodivergentLensDisclaimer:This content is for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional support. Please seek qualified guidance where needed.
SummaryTrauma & Neurodivergence Uncovered!
Mar 1800:31:56Summary readyEpisode 1: Trauma & Neurodivergence UncoveredEpisode SummaryIn this episode of The Neurodivergent Lens, we explore how trauma shapes the neurodivergent experience — from masking, invisibility and toxic shame to dysregulation, brain fatigue and emotional intensity.Alongside the challenges, we also uncover the often-overlooked strengths that can emerge through lived experience, including resilience, empathy, self-awareness, and the transformative power of diagnosis and community. What We Cover* The impact of trauma on neurodivergent identity and development* Educational trauma, labelling, and long-term psychological effects* Type 1 and Type 2 trauma* Nervous system dysregulation, dissociation, and survival responses* Masking, invisibility, and internalised shame* Toxic shame vs healthy shame and the inner critical voice* Rejection sensitivity and emotional intensity* Brain fatigue, energy management, and burnout* Social anxiety, depression, OCD and co-occurring experiences* The role of curiosity before judgement* The benefits of diagnosis, self-awareness, and community* Resilience, empathy, and compassion as neurodivergent strengths About the GuestEmma Lord-Jenkins is the founder of Rethink Inclusion, providing consultancy and neurodiversity training informed by both professional and lived experience.With a background in careers guidance and supported employment, and as a late-diagnosed ADHDer, Emma is passionate about creating inclusive workplaces and removing barriers for neurodivergent people across all areas of life.Find Emma:Website: Rethink InclusionLinkedIn: Emma Lord | LinkedInInstagram: @rethink_inclusion Why This Conversation MattersNeurodivergent experiences are often misunderstood through deficit-based narratives. This conversation offers a more nuanced perspective - exploring how trauma and neurodivergence intersect, while also highlighting the strengths, insight, and humanity within those lived experiences. About The Neurodivergent LensThe Neurodivergent Lens is a video podcast exploring neurodivergence through thoughtful conversations and lived experience.Through interviews with individuals of lived and professional insight, the podcast challenges assumptions, reduces stigma, and promotes a strengths-based understanding of neurodivergent identity.This podcast is brought to you by Dyscourse — a consultancy, training and mentoring organisation working to change how society understands and supports neurodivergent people. Listen & ConnectWatch on YouTube: @TheNeurodivergentLensPodcastWebsite: https://dyscourse.org/podcastFollow:Instagram: @the.neurodivergent.lensLinkedIn: DyscourseFacebook: TheNeurodivergentLensDisclaimerThe discussions in this podcast are intended for educational and awareness purposes only and are not a substitute for professional medical or therapeutic advice. Please seek support from a qualified professional where needed.Watch, Listen & ConnectWatch & Subscribe on YouTube: @TheNeurodivergentLensPodcastWebsite: https://dyscourse.org/podcastApple Podcasts: https://apple.co/4wVeWmSSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6Vzy9a6fLbo3YnmNUuiM43Download our free PDF guide on Myths & Misconceptions: https://dyscourse.org/ (above footer)Follow:Instagram: @the.neurodivergent.lensLinkedIn: DyscourseFacebook: TheNeurodivergentLensDisclaimer:This content is for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional support. Please seek qualified guidance where needed.
SummarySeason 1 Trailer: Nemesis & Gifts
Mar 1700:00:53Tap to summarizeWhat if the challenges of neurodivergence also hold hidden strengths? Season 1 explores the Nemesis and Gifts of neurodivergence - unpacking trauma, shame, time, decision-making and empathy through lived experience. With five episodes releasing every 3 weeks, subscribe so you don’t miss what’s to come and be part of the conversation.Watch, Listen & ConnectWatch & Subscribe on YouTube: @TheNeurodivergentLensPodcastWebsite: https://dyscourse.org/podcastApple Podcasts: https://apple.co/4wVeWmSSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6Vzy9a6fLbo3YnmNUuiM43Download our free PDF guide on Myths & Misconceptions: https://dyscourse.org/ (above footer)Follow:Instagram: @the.neurodivergent.lensLinkedIn: DyscourseFacebook: TheNeurodivergentLensDisclaimer:This content is for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional support. Please seek qualified guidance where needed.
Transcribe →Podcast Trailer
Mar 1700:01:42Tap to summarizeWelcome to The Neurodivergent Lens - a podcast exploring neurodivergence through thoughtful conversations that challenge assumptions, centre lived experience, and reframe difference through a strengths-based lens. New episodes drop every 3 weeks throughout Season 1. Subscribe so you don’t miss a conversation and let's talk neurodivergence!Watch, Listen & ConnectWatch & Subscribe on YouTube: @TheNeurodivergentLensPodcastWebsite: https://dyscourse.org/podcastApple Podcasts: https://apple.co/4wVeWmSSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6Vzy9a6fLbo3YnmNUuiM43Download our free PDF guide on Myths & Misconceptions: https://dyscourse.org/ (above footer)Follow:Instagram: @the.neurodivergent.lensLinkedIn: DyscourseFacebook: TheNeurodivergentLensDisclaimer:This content is for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional support. Please seek qualified guidance where needed.
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