Weird - Reflecting

What does it really mean to be called “weird” — and why are neurodivergent people so often given that label? In this episode of NeuroSpice & Life, neurodivergent hosts Freya Corboy (alexithymic counsellor) and Hanna Hosking (sexologist) reflect on the lived experience of being labelled weird as autistic, ADHD, and AuDHD people — and how that label has shown up as ostracisation, isolation, loneliness, and being treated as other. For many neurodivergent children and adults, being “weird” isn’t just a word — it’s a social experience shaped by exclusion, misunderstanding, and pressure to mask, camouflage, and chameleon in order to survive. This episode explores how long-term neurodivergent masking and self-abandonment can erode self-trust, create identity confusion, and leave people disconnected from who they really are later in life. We also unpack confirmation bias and social psychology, examining how humans naturally gravitate toward people who think, communicate, and behave like themselves — and how this unconscious pattern reinforces exclusion in families, friendships, workplaces, and communities. We discuss why intentional inclusion of difference is essential for creativity, innovation, safety, and genuine belonging. This episode is a compassionate, grounded reflection on reclaiming “weird” — not by bypassing the pain, but by recognising difference as a source of insight, connection, and collective growth. In this episode, we discuss: • What “weird” means in autistic, ADHD & neurodivergent lives • Ostracisation, isolation, loneliness & being labelled as other • Neurodivergent masking, camouflaging & people-pleasing as survival • Identity loss, self-trust, and late-identified neurodivergence • Confirmation bias, inclusion, and social psychology • Why difference drives innovation, creativity & change Who this episode is for: Autistic, ADHD, AuDHD, and neurodivergent adults — especially those who are late-identified, highly masked, or struggling with belonging and identity. This episode is also for parents, partners, educators, and professionals seeking to better understand neurodivergent experiences and inclusive practice. About NeuroSpice & Life: NeuroSpice & Life is a neurodivergent-led podcast exploring autism, ADHD, AuDHD, nervous system regulation, identity, relationships, burnout, and neurodiversity-affirming living — without shame, pathologising, or toxic positivity. Connect with us: Website: neurospiceandlife.com.au YouTube: @NeuroSpiceandLife Freya (Mumshine): mumshine.com.au Hanna (The Sensologist): thesensologist.com.au Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical, psychological, or mental-health advice. It does not replace diagnosis, therapy, or professional support. Please seek guidance from a qualified healthcare or mental-health professional.