PODCAST · health
The Hidden 20%
by The Hidden 20%
Help us rewrite the future for every mind. Join the movement and donate at hidden20.org/donate The Hidden 20% is a UK-registered charity, podcast and movement rewriting the future for every mind Founded by autistic/ADHD entrepreneur Ben Branson, we find and share the truth about neurodiversity - catching society up and breaking the cycle of silence, shame and suffering. Through research, stories and science we share the truth - making the hidden visible. Each week, we speak with leading experts and lived experience voices to uncover the true scale and potential of neurodiversity - challenging myths, stereotypes and outdated systems. While others talk awareness, we demand recognition, representation and reform. Every month, more than 100,000 people turn to The Hidden 20% to learn, connect and feel seen. With your support,
Episodes
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Our message to Prime Minister Andy Burnham...
Introducing The Hidden... The Hidden 20% relaunches as The Hidden, with a campaign for a Minister for Neurodiversity. Founded by Ben Branson, the neurodiversity organisation is building a national movement to make the hidden visible. The new name marks a new mission: to make neurodiversity a...
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The Hidden 20% Final Episode: The Uncomfortable Truth About Neurodiversity
For two years, Ben Branson has sat in the green interviewer chair - asking the hard questions, holding the space, and speaking on behalf of The Hidden 20% community. Today, the chair is flipped. Phoebe De Leiburné - Production Manager and Head Producer of The Hidden 20% steps in as host to...
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ADHD, Chronic Illness & Hypermobility: The Hidden Link? | Dr Jess Eccles
Psychiatrist, researcher and brain-body medicine specialist Dr. Jessica Eccles joins Ben for a fascinating conversation about the overlooked physical side of neurodivergence - and why ADHD and autism are often talked about as “brain-only” experiences when the body is deeply involved too. Dr Jess…
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Gemma Styles on ADHD, Depression & Finally Understanding Her Brain
Writer, podcast host and mental health advocate Gemma Styles joins Ben for a deeply honest conversation about ADHD, anxiety, depression and the emotional weight of going through life feeling constantly overwhelmed without understanding why. Gemma reflects on being treated for mental health...
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How Technology Could Transform Your Dyslexia Assessment + Early Identification & Education Reform
Dyslexic entrepreneur and Talamo co-founder Jamie Wace joins Ben for a conversation about why so many children with dyslexia are still being missed - and how technology could radically change access to support. Jamie reflects on his own experience of school, including being told not to pursue...
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Late Diagnosed Autism & Emotional Vulnerability: Luke Grosch’s Story
Content creator and author Luke Grosch joins Ben for an honest conversation about late-diagnosed autism, emotional overwhelm, grief, identity and learning to understand yourself in a world that often misunderstands autistic people. Luke reflects on losing his dad at a young age, and how many of…
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The ADHD Chef: Why Chaos Felt Normal My Entire Life
Chef, content creator and food waste activist Martyn Odell - better known online as Lagom Chef - joins Ben for a chaotic, funny and emotional conversation about ADHD, creativity, food, and finally understanding his brain. Diagnosed with ADHD midway through writing his first cookbook, Martyn...
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Why ADHD Changes How You Eat: Brain, Gut & Food Sensitivities
Clinical neuroscientist and nutrition researcher Dr Miguel Toribio-Mateas returns to The Hidden 20% to challenge one of the most persistent myths in ADHD: that it’s just about the brain. In this conversation, Ben and Dr Miguel explore ADHD through a whole-body lens - from nervous system…
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Late Autism Diagnosis in Leadership: Why Nature Helps Neurodivergent Brains
Executive Director at the RSPB, Emma Marsh, joins Ben for a conversation that connects leadership, late autism diagnosis, and the often-overlooked role of nature in how we regulate and function. Diagnosed autistic in 2023, Emma reflects on what it means to navigate senior leadership as an…
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Neurodivergent-Friendly Design: How to Build Spaces That Support Your Brain
Pablo Lambrechts, Architect and Director at L+ Architects, joins Ben to explore something most of us feel but rarely question - the impact our environment has on our nervous system. Drawing on his work designing neurodiversity-informed spaces (including Google HQ), Pablo explains how light…
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Autism & Mental Health: Anxiety, Meltdowns vs Shutdowns & What We Get Wrong
Dr Ann Ozsivadjian, Clinical Psychologist specialising in autism, joins Ben to unpack the reality of mental health in neurodivergent children and adults - and why so much of it is misunderstood. Drawing on decades of clinical experience, Ann explains how anxiety, depression and low self-esteem...
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Autism, Language & Intersectionality: The Hidden Bias In Diagnosis & Support
Warda Farah, an autistic Independent Researcher and Speech & Language Therapist, joins Ben for a powerful conversation about identity, language and what happens when the systems designed to support you don’t see you properly. Drawing on both lived experience and clinical insight, Warda reflects…
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AuDHD Relationship Goals & The Intersection Of Neurodiversity & Gender
Content creators Lori-Jade and Max Siegel join Ben for an honest, deeply human conversation about late diagnosis, identity and what it means to build a life together as a neurodivergent couple. Both diagnosed with AuDHD in adulthood, they reflect on being missed for decades - from masking and...
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ADHD Media Narratives & Misinformation: What's Really Happening?
In this episode, Ben is joined by Dr Tony Lloyd, former CEO of the ADHD Foundation, for a conversation that steps back and looks at the bigger picture of neurodiversity at a moment when the landscape is rapidly changing. Now retired, Tony reflects on decades at the forefront of ADHD and...
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ADHD & Autism at Work: Masking, Burnout and What Employers Still Get Wrong
In this episode, Ben is joined by Kelly and Hester Grainger, the married co-founders of Perfectly Autistic. Together they work with major organisations to build workplaces that actually work for neurodivergent people but as Kelly (AuDHD) and Hester (ADHD) explain, inclusion isn’t about a single...
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Autism Dadcast: The Untold Reality of Profound Autism Parenting
Today Ben is joined by Andy and Gaz, hosts and founders of The Autism Dadcast Podcast, which has quickly become a vital voice for parents raising profoundly autistic children - gaining tens of thousands of followers and millions of views in just weeks. They share candid insights about parenting,...
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ADHD Assessment Truths: Who Can Diagnose, What to Expect & Why It Matters
In part two of Ben’s conversation with Dr Shyamal Mashru, they unpack what actually makes a good ADHD assessment - and why so many people are still waiting, misdiagnosed, or left without answers. Dr Shyamal, an NHS Consultant Psychiatrist and Medical Lead for Adult ADHD, explains what happens...
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ADHD & Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria: The Emotional Pain No One Explains
In this episode, Ben sits down with Dr Shyamal Mashru, Consultant Psychiatrist and Medical Lead for Adult ADHD, for a clear and compassionate deep dive into Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria (RSD). Often misunderstood or dismissed as being “too sensitive,” RSD is explored here as a real, neurological...
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Autism, Eating Disorders & Elite Sport: Connie Hayes on Cycling, Regulation & Identity
Semi-Professional cyclist, Connie Hayes, joins Ben for a deeply personal conversation about growing up autistic, dyslexic and dyspraxic - and how cycling became both a regulator and a place of safety. Connie reflects on the early signs of autism that were missed, the self-esteem battles that came...
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Undiagnosed Autism in Women: Masking, Misdiagnosis & The Cost of Being Missed
In part two of this conversation, neurobiologist and author of The Lost Girls of Autism, Gina Rippon, rejoins Ben to focus on the women autism research left behind. Picking up where part one ends, Gina traces how early brain science, diagnostic bias and cultural assumptions combined to hide...
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What We Get Wrong About the Brain: Neurobiologist Gina Rippon on Myths, Gender & Neurodiversity
In part one of this two-part conversation, neurobiologist and author of The Gendered Brain and The Lost Girls of Autism - recently awarded the British Psychological Society’s Popular Science Book Prize - Gina Rippon joins Ben to unpack what we really know, and don’t know, about the human brain....
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From Viral Fame to Late AuDHD Diagnosis: Holly Morris on Masking, Burnout & Identity
Comedian, presenter and creator Holly Morris joins Ben for a candid conversation about living with AuDHD, the hidden cost of masking, and why being “funny” is often a survival strategy rather than a personality trait. Holly shares how her comedy career grew out of lifelong hyper-vigilance -...
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The Psychologist Who Diagnosed Me Is Back - With an ADHD Diagnosis and Big News
Dr Renata Fialho is back in the green chair. In this conversation, Renata and Ben pick up where they left off - this time with Renata sharing her own ADHD diagnosis, what it was like to receive it later in life, and how it has quietly reshaped both her inner world and her clinical work. Together,...
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Behaviour Change Scientist on ADHD & Addiction: Shahroo Izadi
In this episode, Ben sits down with bestselling author, psychologist and behaviour change expert Shahroo Izadi for a deep, honest conversation about ADHD, addiction and how habits really form. Diagnosed with ADHD later in life, Shahroo reflects on how years spent working in addiction services...
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A Neurodivergent New Year: Shahroo Izadi, Dr Alison Lennox, Tony Lloyd & More Share Their Hopes For 2026
As another year closes, we’re taking a gentler approach to New Year’s thinking. In this special episode, Ben is joined by familiar voices from across the year and a hint of who’s to come in 2026 - as he sits down with clinicians, creators, advocates and friends of The Hidden 20% to talk about...
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Refocus: Carrie & David Grant On A Neurospicy Family Christmas
Our Refocus series rewinds the moments too good to miss. Short takes. Big takeaways. No attention span required. To celebrate Christmas 2025, we rewind to Carrie and David Grant talking about life post-diagnosis for Carrie, neurodivergent parenting, unmasking as a family, and how letting go of...
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Why ARFID Is Rising: Autism, ADHD & the Eating Disorder Nobody Talks About
In this episode, Child & Adolescent Psychiatrist Dr Josephine Neale - Clinical Director for Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services at the Priory and founder of Neale Health, the UK’s first fully online child and adolescent psychiatry service - joins Ben to unpack ARFID (Avoidant Restrictive...
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The Neurodivergent Christmas Survival Guide: Dr Alison Lennox on Family, Burnout & Boundaries
Christmas is often described as joyful, but for many neurodivergent people it can be overwhelming, exhausting and full of hidden pressure. In this special episode, Dr Alison Lennox returns to unpack why the festive season can feel so challenging - and how preparation, boundaries and regulation...
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“The One Thing About Autism That F*cks Me Off” - My Wife, Sam Branson Opens Up
Seventeen months on, Sam Branson - Ben’s Wife - returns for her most honest conversation yet. Their daughter River is now diagnosed autistic, and Sam and Ben reflect on how that has reshaped their marriage, family life and understanding of each other. This episode is their most vulnerable yet.…
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Autism Isn’t the Problem, The System Is: Dr Luke Beardon Explains Why
In part two of Ben’s conversation with Dr Luke Beardon, they move from language and identity into the systems shaping autistic lives - classrooms, healthcare, and even the criminal justice system. With over 30 years’ experience in autism education, Luke breaks down why inclusivity isn’t a “nice...
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“I Reject the Autism Spectrum”: Dr Luke Beardon on the Myths Holding Us Back
In this first of a two part episode, Dr Luke Beardon - senior lecturer in autism, long-time educator, and author of Autism in Adults and Avoiding Anxiety in Autistic Adults - sits down with Ben to unpack why the language we use around autism matters more than we think. Luke explains why he…
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TV Director Reveals Late Autism Diagnosis & New Neurodiversity TV Show ‘Playtime’
In this episode, writer and director Céin McGillicuddy joins Ben to talk about his late autism diagnosis and ‘Play Time’ - ITV’s joyful new series celebrating neurodiversity in children and adults. Céin reflects on growing up with parents so supportive that his autism went unnoticed for decades,...
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ADHD, Burnout & Belonging: Soph's Plant Kitchen on Family Rejection & Finding Balance
In this Episode, Plant-based chef and author Sophie Waplington (@sophsplantkitchen) opens up for the first time about her self-diagnosed ADHD, family estrangement, and the burnout that comes with juggling business, creativity, and self-employment. We talk about the emotional toll of family...
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Autism Diagnosis vs BPD, CPTSD 'Confusion' & Why 1 in 3 Autistic Women Are Misdiagnosed
In Part Two with Dr Alison Lennox, we dive deep into the world of misdiagnosis in autism. Alison unpacks why conditions like Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) and Complex PTSD are often diagnosed instead of autism, the dangers of getting it wrong, and the real-life consequences for...
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Ex-NHS Autism Psychiatrist Speaks Out: Diagnosis, Waitlists & Why She Left
In this first of a two part episode, psychiatrist Dr Alison Lennox shares the inside story of autism diagnosis in the UK, why she left the NHS after being told to stay quiet about waitlists, and what every adult should know before seeking an assessment. Alison, a late-diagnosed autistic...
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The Hidden ADHD & Hypermobility Connection: What Your Body's Trying To Tell You
In this episode, Ben sits down with consultant osteopath, author of The Meaning of Pain, and pioneer in understanding how body, brain, and pain are deeply connected. With over 25 years in clinical practice, Nick has worked with everyone from elite athletes to hedge fund traders, helping them…
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The Neurodivergent Vet: Dyslexia, High Stress Work & The Power of Pets
In this episode, Ben sits down with Rory the Vet - veterinary surgeon, TV presenter, author, and ambassador for the British Dyslexia Association. Diagnosed with dyslexia late during his veterinary studies, Rory is now a passionate advocate for early identification, school support, and embracing…
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Autism in Children Specialist: Q&A On Eduction, Diagnosis and Mental Health
In this second part of the conversation, Ben is joined again by Cathy Wassell - CEO of Autistic Girls Network, founder of The Haven online school, and author. The focus shifts to solutions: changing education, understanding the hidden side of emotions, and tackling the mental health risks…
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Supporting Autistic Girls: 'Mind Blowing' Statistic Impacting 92% Of Autistic Girls
In this first of a two-part episode, Ben is joined by Cathy Wassell - CEO of Autistic Girls Network, founder of The Haven online school, and successful author. Neurodivergent herself and mum to two autistic children, Cathy is at the front line supporting autistic girls, women, and families, while...
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Refocus: Ellie Middleton - Late ADHD Diagnosis, Autistic Burnout & Finding Your People
Our Refocus series rewinds the moments too good to miss. Short takes. Big takeaways. No attention span required. In this episode, Ellie Middleton shares her journey through late diagnosis, ADHD medication, and the burnout cycle - and why language, community, and finding your people matter more…
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Better Sleep Anywhere: Practical Tips for Neurodivergent Sleepers with Dr. Nerina Ramlakhan (Part Two)
In part two, Ben and sleep expert Dr. Nerina Ramlakhan dive into the practical side of sleep. They discuss how parents of neurodivergent children can better support rest, the most common questions on sleep, and why it’s the “golden thread” that unites everything. Nerina unpacks the science of...
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Sleep, Neurodiversity & The Myths Holding Us Back with Neurophysiologist Dr. Nerina Ramlakhan (Part One)
In this first of a two-part episode, Ben sits down with Dr. Nerina Ramlakhan - a Neurophysiologist, Author and Sleep Expert with over 25 years experience in the field, whose work is shaped by both science and lived experience. She shares her personal journey, from early struggles with insomnia…
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Refocus: Kit Harington - Game of Thrones Actor on ADHD, Addiction & Anxiety
Our Refocus series rewinds the moments too good to miss. Short takes. Big takeaways. No attention span required. In this episode, Kit Harington opens up about the reality of multitasking with a neurodivergent brain - from overwhelm and social anxiety, to addiction, labels, and the unexpected…
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Autism and Nature: Leading Researcher Shares Latest Study
In this episode, Ben is joined by Dr. Samantha Friedman, a researcher exploring the intersection of autism, human–nature relationships, and wellbeing. Together they discuss how natural environments can offer calming, non-judgmental spaces that support regulation, curiosity, and connection. Dr....
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Refocus: Carrie Grant - "What Is Normal?" Autism, Identity & Self-Discovery
Introducing our Re‑Focus series, where we rewind the moments too good to miss. Short takes. Big takeaways. No attention span required. In this episode, Ben sits down with BAFTA Award winning broadcaster, vocal coach & author, Carrie Grant. They dive into her late autism diagnosis, shifting...
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"This Is My Truth”: Autistic MasterChef Contestant Speaks Out on Gregg Wallace
CW: Reference to online abuse, mental health & sexual allegations MasterChef UK semi‑finalist Vanessa D’Souza (aka The Autistic Chef) was diagnosed with autism, ADHD, and sensory processing disorder in her 30s, after years of masking. Cooking became her sanctuary, a safe outlet and creative...
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Leading Autism Expert on Hidden Talents, Late Diagnosis & Burnout
In this episode, Ben sits down with Professor Francesca Happé - one of the most distinguished and respected voices in autism research. With over 30 years at the forefront of the field, Francesca has reshaped how we understand autism, from exploring social cognition to uncovering the hidden...
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King's College Neuroscientist: Why Autistic Women Are Being Missed (Part One)
In this episode, Ben sits down with Professor Francesca Happé - one of the most distinguished and respected voices in autism research. With over 30 years at the forefront of the field, Francesca has reshaped how we understand autism, from exploring social cognition to uncovering the hidden...
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AuDHD Diagnosis Overlooked Amid Negative Gay Stereotypes & Stigma
CW: Addiction & Bullying Bestselling author and broadcaster Matt Cain opens up about discovering autism and ADHD at 50 after decades of feeling "othered" as a gay man. In this chat with Ben, Matt unpacks how his autism and ADHD were long blurred with queer expression, explains how ADHD fuels his...
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Meltdowns to Motorsport: An Autistic Teens Journey to Pro Racing
At just 12 years old, Nelson Taylor is turning heads in UK junior racing - fast, instinctive, and fearless on the track. But his path to the podium has been anything but straightforward. Diagnosed as Autistic, Nelson once found it difficult to leave the house, held back by anxiety, sensory...
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ABOUT THIS SHOW
Help us rewrite the future for every mind.
Join the movement and donate at hidden20.org/donate
The Hidden 20% is a UK-registered charity, podcast and movement rewriting the future for every mind
Founded by autistic/ADHD entrepreneur Ben Branson, we find and share the truth about neurodiversity - catching society up and breaking the cycle of silence, shame and suffering.
Through research, stories and science we share the truth - making the hidden visible.
Each week, we speak with leading experts and lived experience voices to uncover the true scale and potential of neurodiversity - challenging myths, stereotypes and outdated systems.
While others talk awareness, we demand recognition, representation and reform.
Every month, more than 100,000 people turn to The Hidden 20% to learn, connect and feel seen. With your support,
HOSTED BY
The Hidden 20%
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many episodes does The Hidden 20% have?
The Hidden 20% currently has 126 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.
What is The Hidden 20% about?
Help us rewrite the future for every mind. Join the movement and donate at hidden20.org/donate The Hidden 20% is a UK-registered charity, podcast and movement rewriting the future for every mind Founded by autistic/ADHD entrepreneur Ben Branson, we find and share the truth about neurodiversity -...
How often does The Hidden 20% release new episodes?
The Hidden 20% publishes regularly with 126 episodes available. Check the episode list for the typical release schedule.
Where can I listen to The Hidden 20%?
You can listen to The Hidden 20% on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.
Who hosts The Hidden 20%?
The Hidden 20% is created and hosted by The Hidden 20%.
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