Episode 1: Trauma & Neurodivergence Uncovered

Episode Summary

In 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 Guest

Emma 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 Inclusion

LinkedIn: Emma Lord | LinkedIn

Instagram: @rethink_inclusion

Why This Conversation Matters

Neurodivergent 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 Lens

The 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 & Connect

Watch on YouTube: @TheNeurodivergentLensPodcast

Website: https://dyscourse.org/podcast

Follow:

Instagram: @the.neurodivergent.lens

LinkedIn: Dyscourse

Facebook: TheNeurodivergentLens

Disclaimer

The 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 & Connect

Watch & Subscribe on YouTube: @TheNeurodivergentLensPodcast

Website: https://dyscourse.org/podcast

Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/4wVeWmS

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6Vzy9a6fLbo3YnmNUuiM43

Download our free PDF guide on Myths & Misconceptions: https://dyscourse.org/ (above footer)

Follow:

Instagram: @the.neurodivergent.lens

LinkedIn: Dyscourse

Facebook: TheNeurodivergentLens

Disclaimer:

This content is for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional support. Please seek qualified guidance where needed.