Danger Zone!? - "I Led Every Game...Until My Interests Weren't Cool" -Autistic Rejection | Episode 2

Please share/rate this podcastJames Kenyon sits down to chat with co-host James “Maverik” Hollis and explore Maverik’s undiagnosed autistic childhood in the 1990s at primary school – Maverik talks of his struggle with maths, bullying, masking, and the rare moments of real connection that kept him going.In this raw and relatable conversation, Maverik (James Hollis) opens up to James Kenyon about growing up as an undiagnosed autistic kid in primary school. He shares the frustration of being labelled a “slow learner” (especially in maths), how certain teaching styles left him lost, and the daily reality of bullying and social exclusion. Yet there were bright spots: languages came naturally, history became a refuge, and carefully planned playground games gave him the predictability he craved.The two Jameses reflect on how small changes – more practical teaching, interest-led friendships, and genuine inclusion – could have transformed those years, and what today’s schools can still learn from Maverik’s story.Chapters:00:00 Introduction to Neurodivergence and Personal Stories01:51 Challenges in Learning: A Personal Reflection03:41 The Impact of Teaching Methods on Learning05:55 Social Dynamics and Bullying in School10:06 Finding Connection: Friendships and Interests12:54 The Role of Predictability in Coping Strategies18:30 The Importance of Inclusion in EducationKey TakeawaysMaverik proudly identifies as autistic and AuDHDBeing called a “slow learner” was deeply unfair – the teaching style was the problem, not himMaths felt impossible; languages clicked instantlyBullying and exclusion were daily realitiesTrue friendships formed over shared special interests (especially history)Planning games and routines were vital coping toolsMoments of real inclusion were rare but life-changingNeuro-inclusive classrooms should actively connect kids with similar passions---Support our NeuroInclusion Odyssey for the price of a pint!Join the Pint Club on Patreon (**£6/month**) → bonus behind the scenes content, patreon shout out in our shows, and have real impact on NeuroInclusion. 👉 patreon.com/c/NeuroPod---Follow TheNeuroPod on:Facebook | Instagram | TikTok | YouTube---TheNeuroPod is written and presented by James Hollis and James Kenyon.Producer: Veronika Ipser---#NeuroInclusion #AuDHD #AutismAwareness #Neurodivergent #UKPodcast #ActuallyAutistic