The Neurodivergent Connection / The Curious Storyteller

What Freedom Costs: My Conversation with Zulal Habibi on Iran, Loss, and ResistanceWhat happens when freedom isn’t an idea, but something your family has paid for in blood? In this episode, I sit down with Zolal Habibi for a powerful conversation about Iran, grief, courage, and why real change must come from the people themselves.Zolal shares how activism shaped her life from childhood, how personal loss changed her path, and why silence can carry its own cost. As we talk, she helps me see the human side of headlines that are often reduced to politics, numbers, or quick opinions.You’ll hear why she believes Iran’s future can’t be reduced to war or acceptance, what younger generations are showing the world right now, and why the role of women matters far beyond what most people hear in the news. There’s also a deeper question running through this whole conversation: what responsibility do we carry when we live in freedom while others are still fighting for it?About the GuestZulal Habibi is an Iranian human rights advocate and longtime supporter of the Iranian Resistance. Her work focuses on raising awareness of the people of Iran, political repression, and the ongoing fight for democratic change.Timestamps0:46 - I welcome Zolal and begin with her earliest connection to Iran6:54 - When fear became part of everyday life15:18 - Why she says the solution is not war or appeasement27:46 - How her life became tied to the Resistance35:53 - The personal cost of speaking publicly for Iran47:26 - One story of courage she has never forgotten54:50 - The central role of women in Iran’s Resistance66:57 - Why Iran’s future must come from its own people73:30 - What younger Iranians are doing differently now79:10 - What she hopes to do the day Iran is freeZolal's Resources:ncr-iran.orgMaryamMajaviForChange.comoiac.orgiranfreedom.orghttps://shop.adhddd.com/NEURODIVERGENT_CONNECTIONIf this conversation moved you, listen to the full episode and share it with someone who needs a more human picture of Iran, resistance, and freedom.#Iran #HumanRights #Freedom #WomenInResistance #TheCuriousStorytellerHosted by Reid Miles.Conversations unfold naturally — no scripts, no rush.🎧 Subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts🌐 More about the show and past episodes: https://podcast.ausha.co/neurodivergantconnection-thecuriousstroyteller📩 Guest inquiries & media: [email protected] on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

What Happens When Autism, C-PTSD, and Self-Worth Finally Start to Make SenseWhat if the hard parts of your past finally started to make sense—and you realized you still had a say in what comes next?In this episode, I sit down with Lawrence Harris for an honest conversation about autism, C-PTSD, emotional regulation, and what it takes to rebuild self-worth when life has taught you to question it. We talk about what it feels like to grow up misunderstood, how trauma can shape relationships and daily life, and the quiet shift that happens when surviving turns into something more intentional.Lawrence shares parts of his story with real honesty, from childhood abuse and abandonment wounds to the tools that helped him start seeing himself more clearly. We also talk about why journaling became such a powerful practice for him, what progress actually looked like, and how he turned painful experiences into work that now helps young people feel less alone.If you've ever wondered why certain patterns keep showing up—or how healing can begin to feel possible—this conversation will give you a lot to think about. And there are a few moments in this episode that may stay with you long after it ends.About the GuestLawrence Harris is a speaker and content creator who shares his lived experience with autism, C-PTSD, healing, and emotional growth to support young people who are still finding their footing.Timestamps0:02 - I welcome Lawrence and ask what life felt like before he had words for autism and C-PTSD3:21 - The moment therapy began helping things click into place6:44 - What C-PTSD looked like in everyday life, emotionally and physically14:03 - When Lawrence realized he wanted more than just getting through16:41 - The first real step he took toward healing17:28 - How journaling helped him build emotional awareness24:59 - Rebuilding self-worth after years of feeling misunderstood33:25 - What Lawrence does when old fears still show up43:03 - How his story became a way to help others50:36 - What lasting growth really looks like in real lifeLawrence's Links:LawrenceCMpowers.comShow Affiliate https://shop.adhddd.com/NEURODIVERGENT_CONNECTIONIf this episode speaks to you, listen to the full conversation and share it with someone who needs the reminder that they are not alone.#NeurodivergentConnection #AutismAwareness #CPTSDHealing #MentalHealthSupport #SelfWorthHosted by Reid Miles.Conversations unfold naturally — no scripts, no rush.🎧 Subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts🌐 More about the show and past episodes: https://podcast.ausha.co/neurodivergantconnection-thecuriousstroyteller📩 Guest inquiries & media: [email protected] on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

When Doubt Doesn’t Break Faith, but Makes It More HonestWhat happens when the beliefs you inherited no longer fit, but your faith doesn’t disappear? In this episode, I sit down with Brent Johnson to talk about what comes after certainty starts to crack.We talk about growing up in a strict Christian world, how hard it can feel to question what you were taught, and why doubt isn’t always the enemy people make it out to be. Brent shares how years in ministry pushed him to ask harder questions about church, identity, leadership, and what faith looks like when performance falls away.If you’ve ever wrestled with religious doubt, spiritual pressure, or the fear of asking honest questions, this conversation may stay with you. I’m also sharing what surprised me most in our discussion about community, belonging, and why some people leave systems while still holding onto God.About my guest: Brent Johnson is a former pastor, author of Broken Before God: When Faith and Calamity Collide, and host of the More to Church podcast. He speaks openly about faith deconstruction, church culture, and finding a more grounded belief on the other side.Key Timestamps0:02 - Why this conversation about doubt, certainty, and faith matters1:20 - Brent’s upbringing in a strict Christian home5:28 - The slow moment when inherited beliefs started to crack10:22 - Ministry, church culture, and the questions that wouldn’t go away14:52 - Why deconstruction didn’t lead Brent away from faith22:49 - When church identity starts replacing personal identity25:36 - What felt more real after letting go of old assumptions38:42 - The fear that comes with rethinking childhood beliefs49:06 - Being a pastor, identity, and life outside official roles56:13 - What parts of Christianity remained after everything was questioned73:41 - What Brent wants people with doubts to know80:01 - What a healthy Christian community could look like nowBrandt's Links:Instagram: @bcj5_10TikTok: TicTok: brandtjohnson2Email: [email protected] me get my book published: https://paypal.me/fullconversation?locale.x=en_US&country.x=USShow Affiliate: https://shop.adhddd.com/NEURODIVERGENT_CONNECTIONIf this episode speaks to something you’ve been carrying, listen all the way through and share it with someone who’s asking quiet questions of their own.#FaithDeconstruction #SpiritualAbuse #ChristianCommunity #ReligiousDoubt #PodcastInterviewHosted by Reid Miles.Conversations unfold naturally — no scripts, no rush.🎧 Subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts🌐 More about the show and past episodes: https://podcast.ausha.co/neurodivergantconnection-thecuriousstroyteller📩 Guest inquiries & media: [email protected] on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

What If “Picture This” Doesn’t Work for You?What if the way I’ve been told to think, remember, or heal was built for a different kind of mind?In this conversation, I sit down with Dr. Paulina Trevenna to talk about ADHD, aphantasia, memory, and why so many therapy and hypnosis methods quietly assume that everyone can visualize. If you’ve ever felt like certain tools just don’t land for you, this episode may help you see why.We talk about the moment Paulina realized people really do “see” images in their minds, how that changed her understanding of imagination, and why that discovery led her into research. We also get into the hidden gap between common hypnosis techniques and neurodivergent inner experiences, including what can happen when practitioners mistake difference for resistance.You’ll hear why this matters for people with ADHD, autism, aphantasia, and anyone supporting neurodivergent people. More importantly, I’m sharing a conversation that asks a bigger question: how many systems were built around one kind of brain?About the GuestDr. Paulina Trevenna is a researcher, speaker, and hypnotherapist focused on aphantasia, hypnosis, and neurodivergence. She also leads the Aphantasia World community and teaches practitioners how to better support people who can’t visualize in the usual way.Timestamps0:02 - I welcome Dr. Paulina Trevenna1:35 - Feeling different before having the words for it7:40 - The therapy session that revealed aphantasia13:43 - Entering hypnosis without visualization22:50 - What happens when standard techniques don’t work32:50 - The two big research questions Paulina set out to answer36:05 - What thinking feels like without mental images47:20 - Why therapy and meditation often miss neurodivergent minds55:17 - Adapting hypnosis for different inner experiences66:40 - What aphantasia reveals about human thinking70:14 - Where to find Paulina onlineIf this episode speaks to you, listen through and share it with someone who’s been told they’re “doing it wrong” when they may just be wired differently.#Aphantasia #ADHD #Neurodivergent #Hypnosis #MentalHealthHosted by Reid Miles.Conversations unfold naturally — no scripts, no rush.🎧 Subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts🌐 More about the show and past episodes: https://podcast.ausha.co/neurodivergantconnection-thecuriousstroyteller📩 Guest inquiries & media: [email protected] on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Why Knowing Isn’t Enough to Change, and What Actually Helps You Move ForwardI sat down with Dr. Radhika Achari for a conversation that felt both practical and deeply personal: why some things come naturally, why other things feel painfully hard, and why knowing what to do still doesn’t mean we’ll do it.In this episode, I explore how growth mindset, environment, and self-story shape the way we act. We talk about the hidden space between intention and action, why simple advice can fall apart in real life, and how small wins can change the way you see yourself. If you’ve ever felt stuck, behind, or tired of comparing yourself to everyone else, this one will likely hit home.I also get into how systems can reduce stress, why confidence often comes after action, and what it means to build support that fits the person instead of forcing a one-size-fits-all answer. There’s a lot here for parents, educators, neurodivergent people, and anyone trying to make change feel possible again.About the GuestDr. Radhika Achari is a clinician, behavior analyst, and organizational leadership expert. She blends behavior science with a people-focused view of growth, helping individuals and families build skills, reduce barriers, and create change that fits real life.Timestamps0:02 - I welcome Dr. Achari and ask what first shaped her curiosity about growth4:20 - We talk about comparison, competition, and learning to value different strengths13:31 - Why knowing what to do is rarely enough to create change15:28 - How systems reduce stress and support executive functioning22:53 - Why simple advice can feel almost impossible to follow32:18 - How the stories we tell ourselves keep us stuck36:05 - A simple “what if” question that can help you start again41:06 - What behavior analysis and leadership taught her about people45:00 - How workplaces can create burnout without meaning to47:52 - How to pursue growth without turning life into a constant self-fix project54:20 - The question that reveals what’s really blocking progress55:08 - Why waiting for confidence usually keeps us frozen66:13 - What helps people feel psychologically safe enough to grow72:27 - What growth really looks like when life hasn’t gone to planDr Achari's Links:Website:analyzeandact.comInstagram:@analyze_n_actHelp bring Fearless Footsteps into the World:https://paypal.me/fullconversation?locale.x=en_US&country.x=USShow Affiliate:https://shop.adhddd.com/NEURODIVERGENT_CONNECTIONIf this conversation speaks to you, listen to the full episode and share it with someone who needs a gentler, clearer way to think about growth.#GrowthMindset #Neurodiversity #ExecutiveFunctioning #ParentingSupport #PersonalGrowthHosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

When Autism Changes How I See Parenting, Identity, and ConnectionWhat if understanding an autistic child starts with seeing yourself more clearly?In this episode, I sit down with Irini Hara for a deeply personal conversation about raising an autistic son, living through years of uncertainty, and rethinking what “normal” even means. We talk about the early signs she noticed, the loneliness many parents carry in silence, and the moment she began looking at both her son and herself through a different lens.What stayed with me most is how this conversation moves beyond labels. Irini shares why self-regulation matters so much in parenting, why acceptance can change the whole relationship, and why some of the biggest struggles families face are often missed by schools, systems, and even the medical world. She also opens up about the questions she’s still asking about trauma, autism, and support.If you’re a parent, educator, caregiver, or someone finding your own way through neurodivergence, I think this episode will leave you feeling seen—and maybe questioning a few things in the best way.About the GuestIrini Hara is a researcher, facilitator, and mother who shares conversations around autism, trauma, healing, and family systems. She also hosts Autism 360 Degrees and creates content for parents and families looking for wider support and understanding.Key Timestamps0:02 - I welcome Irini and we begin with the first signs she noticed in her son3:19 - We talk about the emotions that came with uncertainty before diagnosis5:43 - Irini shares how she began noticing autistic traits in herself11:40 - What changed how she understood her son14:01 - What parenting an autistic child taught her about connection17:34 - The powerful lesson her son taught her about “normal”20:25 - How motherhood led her toward trauma work and healing practices29:02 - Why she started questioning traditional explanations of autism38:15 - The conversations she wishes the medical world would have47:34 - What she hopes her son never loses as he grows up50:10 - Her message to overwhelmed parents listening right nowIf this episode speaks to you, listen all the way through and share it with someone who needs more support around autism, parenting, and neurodivergence.#AutismAwareness #NeurodivergentConnection #ParentingSupport #Neurodiversity #AutisticChildrenHosted by Reid Miles.Conversations unfold naturally — no scripts, no rush.🎧 Subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts🌐 More about the show and past episodes: https://podcast.ausha.co/neurodivergantconnection-thecuriousstroyteller📩 Guest inquiries & media: [email protected] on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

What Rejection Sensitivity Really Feels Like—and How I Start Moving Through ItIf you’ve ever read too much into a text, replayed a silence for hours, or felt one small moment hit far harder than it “should,” this conversation will likely feel very familiar.In this episode, I sit down with "BB" Brito to talk about rejection sensitive dysphoria in a way that feels real, human, and easy to understand. We get into what rejection can feel like in the mind and body, why uncertainty can send us into a spiral so fast, and why so many neurodivergent people end up apologizing, overexplaining, or pulling away before anyone else can.I’m also sharing parts of my own experience, so this isn’t just theory. It’s an honest conversation about ADHD, relationships, masking, people-pleasing, and the inner stories we tell ourselves when we feel left out or misunderstood. Bibi also shares a few gentle ways to create space between what happened and the meaning our brain adds to it.About my guest: "BB Brito" is a nurse, speaker, and RSD guide who helps neurodivergent women understand rejection sensitivity and build a steadier relationship with themselves.If rejection has been running the show in your friendships, family life, or sense of self, this episode may help you feel a little more seen—and a lot less alone.Key Timestamps0:02 - I welcome BB and we define what RSD can feel like7:49 - When small moments turn into overwhelming pain13:29 - What “RSD survival” looks like in daily life15:01 - What rejection does to the nervous system22:08 - Why unanswered messages can feel so personal28:12 - A simple way to separate facts from the story in my head30:02 - The link between people-pleasing and fear of rejection42:01 - How to interrupt worst-case thinking57:03 - How rejection sensitivity can strain close relationships84:25 - What I want you to remember when your mind is spiralingListen in, and if this episode speaks to you, share it with someone who needs language for what they’ve been feeling. #RejectionSensitivity #Neurodivergent #ADHD #AutismAwareness #MentalHealthHosted by Reid Miles.Conversations unfold naturally — no scripts, no rush.🎧 Subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts🌐 More about the show and past episodes: https://podcast.ausha.co/neurodivergantconnection-thecuriousstroyteller📩 Guest inquiries & media: [email protected] on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

From Corporate Burnout to Building Wealth on Her Own Terms with Tanya RooneyWhat happens when a “secure” job stops feeling safe and your life starts running on autopilot?In this episode, I sit down with Tanya Rooney to talk about what it really took to walk away from corporate real estate, face the fear of leaving a steady paycheck, and start building wealth one property at a time. We get into the mental load, the risk, the hard conversations with a partner, and the part social media rarely shows when it comes to house flips and Airbnb ownership.Tanya shares how she went from burnout and routine to owning multiple properties and creating a business that fits her life better. We also talk about why some “good opportunities” are actually expensive mistakes, what new investors often miss, and why changing lanes doesn’t mean you failed.If you’ve been telling yourself “maybe someday,” this conversation might make you question what’s really holding you back.About the GuestTanya Rooney is a real estate investor and business owner who built a short-term rental portfolio after leaving corporate real estate. She now helps women think differently about building long-term wealth through property ownership and practical action.Timestamps0:12 - Tanya looks back on corporate life and when things started to feel off4:11 - Why “security” means something very different now6:44 - The moment real estate became more than a day job skill15:16 - Why she finally left corporate and took the leap22:32 - The hidden emotional cost of flipping houses32:36 - How one stalled sale led to an Airbnb business36:26 - Why Airbnb is not passive, no matter what people say51:43 - Building wealth one house at a time61:39 - What Tanya wants women to hear before they wait another yearTanya Linkshttps://www.tanyarooney.com/https://www.instagram.com/tanyarooneymn/https://www.facebook.com/TanyaRooney28https://www.youtube.com/@tanyarooneymnShow Affiliatehttps://shop.adhddd.com/NEURODIVERGENT_CONNECTIONIf this episode got you thinking about burnout, real estate investing, Airbnb, or building wealth in a way that fits your life, listen to the full conversation and let me know what part stayed with you most.#RealEstateInvesting #AirbnbBusiness #WomenInBusiness #BuildWealth #EntrepreneurMindsetHosted by Reid Miles.Conversations unfold naturally — no scripts, no rush.🎧 Subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts🌐 More about the show and past episodes: https://podcast.ausha.co/neurodivergantconnection-thecuriousstroyteller📩 Guest inquiries & media: [email protected] on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

When Neurodivergence, Gaslighting, and Emotional Abuse OverlapWhat happens when being wired differently gets used against you? In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Wanda Kaye to talk about why emotional abuse can hit neurodivergent people in ways that are confusing, isolating, and painfully hard to name.We talk about gaslighting, trauma bonds, pattern recognition, and why leaving an abusive dynamic can feel harder than it looks from the outside. Dr. Wanda also shares how family culture, ADHD, autism, and the need for predictability can all shape what abuse feels like from the inside. More importantly, I explore with her what healing can look like when your mind understands the harm, but your body still feels stuck.If you've ever questioned your reality, blamed yourself, or wondered why it takes so long to feel safe again, this conversation will give you language for experiences many people carry in silence. I also get into why community matters so much, and what early recovery can look like before life feels steady again.About the GuestDr. Wanda is a clinician, professor, and the founder of Holisticated Health. Her work focuses on narcissistic emotional abuse recovery, somatic healing, and support for neurodivergent people working through complex relationship trauma.Timestamps0:40 - I welcome Dr. Wanda and set up the conversation3:49 - Why neurodivergent traits can be targeted in abusive relationships10:36 - When emotional abuse becomes something deeper and distorting17:42 - The long road to realizing something isn’t right21:53 - Why gaslighting and trauma bonds can hit so hard37:33 - Why these patterns can take longer to break43:09 - When logic isn’t enough and the body still holds the pain48:33 - How the NEAR program came together52:40 - What Dr. Wanda wants stuck listeners to hear right nowDr Wanda's Siteholisticatedhealth.comShow Affiliatehttps://shop.adhddd.com/NEURODIVERGENT_CONNECTIONIf this episode speaks to you, listen through to the end and share it with someone who needs clearer words for what they’ve been living through.#Neurodivergent #EmotionalAbuse #Gaslighting #TraumaHealing #AutismADHDHosted by Reid Miles.Conversations unfold naturally — no scripts, no rush.🎧 Subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts🌐 More about the show and past episodes: https://podcast.ausha.co/neurodivergantconnection-thecuriousstroyteller📩 Guest inquiries & media: [email protected] on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

When an Autism Diagnosis Makes the Past Finally ClickWhat does it feel like when a diagnosis doesn’t answer everything, but it helps your life make more sense?In this episode, I sit down with Ebony Backes for a thoughtful conversation about autism, creativity, grief, comfort, and the quiet ways we come to understand ourselves over time. Ebony shares what it was like to feel confused by other kids, how drawing became the one thing that always made sense, and why a diagnosis can bring both relief and loss at the same time.We also talk about the small but meaningful things that help her feel grounded, from cooking and comics to the ocean and even African painted dogs. Along the way, I explore how self-understanding can grow slowly, especially for neurodivergent people who don’t have all the words yet.If you’ve ever wondered why certain parts of your past still sting, or why creative expression can say what words can’t, this conversation will stay with you. I think you’ll come away with a few new questions about identity, healing, and what it means to be seen.About the GuestEbony Backes is an artist and creative who uses drawing and comics as a way to express herself, make sense of the world, and connect with others through shared experiences.Timestamps0:02 - I welcome Ebony and ask what the world felt like as a child1:55 - When drawing became more than a hobby4:40 - Ebony shares the moment her autism diagnosis clicked6:20 - The mix of grief and relief after getting answers6:59 - Why cooking brings comfort and care9:35 - How the beach helps her reset11:38 - How her relationship with herself has changed over time12:45 - What she wants young people still finding their words to hear16:25 - Where to find Ebony onlinehttps://shop.adhddd.com/NEURODIVERGENT_CONNECTIONIf this episode speaks to you, listen through and share it with someone who may need these words today.#AutismAwareness #Neurodivergent #LateDiagnosis #CreativeExpression #TheNeurodivergentConnectionHosted by Reid Miles.Conversations unfold naturally — no scripts, no rush.🎧 Subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts🌐 More about the show and past episodes: https://podcast.ausha.co/neurodivergantconnection-thecuriousstroyteller📩 Guest inquiries & media: [email protected] on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

What Caregivers Carry That Most People Never See with Crystal GriffthBehind every diagnosis, ER visit, and fight to be heard, there’s often a caregiver carrying far more than anyone notices.In this conversation, I sit down with Crystal Griffin to talk about what caregiving really looks like when medical needs, burnout, grief, and advocacy all collide. We talk about the quiet weight families carry, the hospital lessons no one teaches you, and why so many caregivers feel like they have to hold everything together while falling apart in private.Crystal shares how her own traumatic brain injury, years of medical advocacy, and raising a daughter with complex needs shaped the work she does today through Medical Mom Warriors. Along the way, I explore what stability can look like when life stays unpredictable, why self-care often feels out of reach, and what families need from doctors that they still aren’t getting.If you’ve ever felt unseen after a diagnosis, worn down by appointments, or unsure how to keep going without losing yourself, this episode will meet you there. I’m also sharing a few surprising questions from our conversation that may stay with you long after it ends.About the GuestCrystal Griffth is an advocate, educator, and 4-time bestselling author. Through Medical Mom Warriors, she supports families facing medical chaos with practical tools, guidance, and real-life insight shaped by decades of lived experience as both a patient and a caregiver.Key Timestamps0:42 - I welcome Crystal and we start at the beginning of her story3:26 - The traumatic brain injury that changed everything9:55 - What first pulled Crystal into medical advocacy20:30 - How being both a patient and caregiver changed her view of healthcare43:50 - What “medical chaos” looks like behind closed doors47:21 - What caregivers carry every day that most people never see57:24 - Can caregiving make you lose yourself?76:53 - Why Crystal created the Medical Stability Blueprint82:51 - What medical professionals need to understand about caregivers98:06 - Who Crystal is beyond advocacy and caregivingCrystal's website: medicalmomwarriors.comShow Affiliatehttps://shop.adhddd.com/NEURODIVERGENT_CONNECTIONIf this conversation speaks to you, listen through to the end and share it with someone who needs to feel less alone.#CaregiverSupport #Neurodiversity #AutismAwareness #MedicalAdvocacy #ADHDSupportHosted by Reid Miles.Conversations unfold naturally — no scripts, no rush.🎧 Subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts🌐 More about the show and past episodes: https://podcast.ausha.co/neurodivergantconnection-thecuriousstroyteller📩 Guest inquiries & media: [email protected] on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Finding Identity, Community, and Purpose After a Late Autism DiagnosisWhat changes when you finally have words for a life that never quite made sense? In this episode, I sit down with Thomas Hassell to talk about that shift.Thomas shares what it was like to move through school and work without the support he needed, and how a later autism diagnosis helped him understand his past in a new way. We also talk about the hard parts that many autistic adults know too well: feeling misunderstood, struggling to find the right fit, and trying to build a life in a world that often expects you to be someone else.But this conversation doesn’t stay there. I also explore how Thomas found belonging through an adult autism support group, and how that sense of community grew into leadership, advocacy, and writing. You’ll hear what helped him keep going, what inclusion means to him now, and why his message to others still carries so much weight.About the GuestThomas Hassell is an autistic self-advocate, writer, and longtime community leader. He has led adult autism support spaces, contributed to advocacy work, and continues to speak up for autistic people and their families.Timestamps0:02 - I welcome Thomas and ask what learning felt like before diagnosis2:17 - Thomas reflects on getting support through an alternative learning program4:15 - What changed after his autism diagnosis at 445:59 - How community and friendship helped him feel understood6:09 - Stepping into leadership in an adult autism support group8:13 - Why society still misunderstands autistic adults9:04 - What writing gives Thomas that conversation sometimes can’t11:04 - What he would say to his younger self nowIf you’re autistic, newly diagnosed, or supporting someone who is, I think this episode will stay with you. Listen in, then share it with someone who needs the reminder that they’re not alone.#AutismAcceptance #NeurodivergentConnection #AutisticAdults #DisabilityAdvocacy #NeurodiversityHosted by Reid Miles.Conversations unfold naturally — no scripts, no rush.🎧 Subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts🌐 More about the show and past episodes: https://podcast.ausha.co/neurodivergantconnection-thecuriousstroyteller📩 Guest inquiries & media: [email protected] on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

What Caregiving Really Looks Like When the System Falls ShortWhat happens when you’re raising two neurodivergent children and the help you need still doesn’t meet real life? In this episode, I sit down with Danielle for an honest conversation about Autism, ADHD, cerebral palsy, single parenthood, and the kind of caregiving most people never fully see.I’m sharing a story that speaks to parents, caregivers, and anyone trying to support a family carrying more than most people realize. Danielle opens up about the daily pressure of meeting both of her children where they are, while also facing financial strain, burnout, and the quiet loneliness that can come with doing so much on your own.At the same time, this conversation isn’t only about hardship. You’ll also hear about the small moments of joy, the hidden strengths people often miss in nonverbal children, and the kind of real support that actually makes a difference. If you’ve ever wondered what families like Danielle’s wish the world understood, this episode will stay with you.About the GuestDanielle is a single mother raising two children with special needs: her teenage son, Brian, who is autistic and has ADHD, and her daughter, Ava, who is autistic and has cerebral palsy. She shares her family’s day-to-day reality with honesty, heart, and hope.Timestamps0:03 - I introduce Danielle’s story and what this conversation explores1:20 - Danielle shares her family’s background and her children’s diagnoses10:53 - What an ordinary day of caregiving actually looks like23:19 - What caregiving feels like from the inside28:19 - Why even grocery shopping can become a major task32:47 - How Ava experiences the world beyond spoken words43:39 - Who Brian is beyond his Autism label51:06 - What the support gap looks like in everyday life69:07 - What real support truly looks like for a family like Danielle’s74:15 - Danielle’s message for listeners who feel unseen or overwhelmedhttps://shop.adhddd.com/NEURODIVERGENT_CONNECTIONIf this episode speaks to you, listen all the way through, share it with someone who needs it, and keep being part of this neurodivergent community conversation.#Neurodivergent #AutismAwareness #Caregiving #SpecialNeedsParenting #ADHDHosted by Reid Miles.Conversations unfold naturally — no scripts, no rush.🎧 Subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts🌐 More about the show and past episodes: https://podcast.ausha.co/neurodivergantconnection-thecuriousstroyteller📩 Guest inquiries & media: [email protected] on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

When Chronic Illness Changes Your Identity: My Conversation with Dr. Jeff BoneWhat do you do when your body says something is wrong, but no one seems to hear you?In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Jeff Bone to talk about the hidden weight of chronic illness, what it feels like to be misdiagnosed, and how life can change when your health no longer feels predictable. This conversation goes far beyond symptoms. We get into grief, loneliness, identity, and the quiet fear that comes with living in a body you can’t fully trust.Dr. Bone is a psychologist, writer, and host of To the Bone: Conversations on Pain, Illness, and Meaning. After years of searching for answers, he was eventually diagnosed with an immune disorder linked to toxic mold exposure. What stayed with me most was how honestly he spoke about being dismissed, rebuilding meaning, and learning how to live with pain without turning against himself.If you’ve ever felt unseen, overwhelmed, or unsure how to explain what you’re carrying, I think this episode will stay with you. I also share why curiosity, self-compassion, and being truly present can matter more than having all the answers.Timestamps0:02 - Why chronic illness can affect identity, relationships, and the future you pictured1:15 - What life looked like before everything changed6:43 - The pain of being misdiagnosed and not believed8:21 - The first real clues behind his illness12:25 - Realizing this wasn’t something that would simply pass15:33 - The part of chronic illness most people don’t see19:20 - How poetry became a way to cope and make sense of the chaos25:37 - Grieving the life you thought you’d have35:01 - A small practice that can help when everything feels too heavy41:34 - Changing your relationship with pain48:46 - What I hope people hear when they feel dismissed or aloneIf this conversation speaks to you, listen to the full episode and share it with someone who needs to feel less alone.#ChronicIllness #InvisibleIllness #NeurodivergentConnection #MentalHealth #DisabilitySupportHosted by Reid Miles.Conversations unfold naturally — no scripts, no rush.🎧 Subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts🌐 More about the show and past episodes: https://podcast.ausha.co/neurodivergantconnection-thecuriousstroyteller📩 Guest inquiries & media: [email protected] on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Why So Many Neurodivergent Kids Struggle in School — And What Needs to ChangeIf school feels more like a battle than a place to learn, this conversation will hit home.In this episode, I sit down with Lisa Riegel to talk about why so many neurodivergent students are misunderstood in classrooms, IEP meetings, and behavior systems. We get into the gap between what schools measure, what they actually support, and why that mismatch can leave kids feeling like they’re the problem.I’m sharing a conversation that goes beyond labels like ADHD and autism and gets to the heart of what many parents, educators, and caregivers see every day: bright kids struggling in systems that were never built with their brains in mind. You’ll hear why behavior is often misread, what schools miss about executive functioning, and how small shifts in the classroom can change far more than most people expect.About the guest: Lisa Riegel is an educator, leadership expert, and author of NeuroWell. She works with schools and professionals to bring brain-based practices into real learning spaces, with a strong focus on helping students feel safe, seen, and supported.If you’ve ever wondered why some kids keep falling through the cracks—or what it could look like if we actually got it right—this episode will give you a lot to think about.Timestamps0:03 - I welcome Lisa Riegel and set up the conversation0:30 - What Lisa noticed early about students who didn’t fit the system2:08 - Why IEP data and school supports often don’t match4:37 - Why behavior plans can miss what autistic students really need7:33 - The personal moment that changed Lisa’s work forever12:09 - A simple classroom shift that helped students focus better16:49 - Why teachers need a better understanding of how the brain works23:22 - What Lisa wishes more people understood about ADHD and autism31:52 - The biggest mistake schools make about behavior33:31 - Small changes that created big results in real classrooms38:29 - Where the education system breaks down most for neurodivergent people47:36 - What helps neurodivergent minds thriveListen in, then share this with a parent, teacher, or caregiver who needs this conversation. #Neurodivergent #ADHD #AutismAwareness #InclusiveEducation #IEPHosted by Reid Miles.Conversations unfold naturally — no scripts, no rush.🎧 Subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts🌐 More about the show and past episodes: https://podcast.ausha.co/neurodivergantconnection-thecuriousstroyteller📩 Guest inquiries & media: [email protected] on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

What Happens When You Look Fine on the Outside but Feel Lost Inside?In this episode, I sit down with Mike Dyson for an honest conversation about identity, discouragement, grief, and what it takes to keep going when life feels heavier than you can explain.Mike shares parts of his story that many people hide: childhood rejection, the pressure to perform, silent insecurity, and the kind of pain that can sit behind a confident face. We also talk about the health crisis that shook his world and why that season forced him to face fear, loss, and purpose in a new way.What stayed with me most is this: how do you tell the difference between healing and hiding? And what changes when you stop believing the worst things about yourself?About the guest: Mike Dyson is the author of The Shadow. He writes and speaks about faith, identity, restoration, emotional pain, and hope for people who feel stuck in darkness.If you’ve ever felt unseen, overwhelmed, or unsure how to move forward, I think this conversation will meet you where you are. Listen through to hear the questions that matter most.Timestamps0:02 - I welcome Mike Dyson and begin with his story before the book1:25 - Mike opens up about childhood rejection, fatherlessness, and insecurity4:20 - We talk about distorted identity and the “shadows” that shape self-worth7:33 - Mike shares what it’s like to look confident while struggling inside13:14 - A major health scare, grief, and the emotional weight that followed19:12 - How suffering changed Mike’s sense of purpose32:23 - The meaning behind The Shadow and the difference between two kinds of shadows35:18 - Why people confuse hiding with healing41:57 - What happens when we believe darkness over truth53:23 - How faith and suffering can exist at the same time57:32 - What Mike hopes readers take from his book61:13 - Where to find Mike and get the bookGet you copy of the Anti-Planner - https://shop.adhddd.com/NEURODIVERGENT_CONNECTIONIf this episode speaks to you, listen to the full conversation and share it with someone who may need the reminder that they’re not alone.#TheCuriousStoryteller #MikeDyson #TheShadow #MentalHealth #FaithAndHealingHosted by Reid Miles.Conversations unfold naturally — no scripts, no rush.🎧 Subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts🌐 More about the show and past episodes: https://podcast.ausha.co/neurodivergantconnection-thecuriousstroyteller📩 Guest inquiries & media: [email protected] on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

When “This Wasn’t the Plan” Becomes Your Reality as a ParentWhat happens when the life I imagined for my children suddenly changes—and I can’t fix it the way I thought I could?In this episode, I sit down with Tabitha deGrave for an honest conversation about parenting through diagnosis, uncertainty, and the kind of strength people often praise but rarely understand. We talk about what it feels like to raise one child with autism and another with tuberous sclerosis complex, and how those two paths can reshape a mother’s identity in ways no one really prepares you for.Tabitha shares the guilt, grief, and constant questions that can come after a diagnosis. At the same time, she also speaks to the patience, advocacy, and deep awareness that can grow in that hard space. We also get into why labels can matter, how support can change a child’s future, and what many families wish someone had told them much earlier.If you’re a parent, caregiver, educator, or someone trying to support a neurodivergent child, I think this conversation will meet you where you are. And if you’ve ever wondered how to keep showing up when life looks nothing like you expected, there’s something here for you.About the Guest: Tabitha deGrave is a mother, advocate, and author who shares her family’s experience to help other families feel less alone after a diagnosis. She speaks openly about caregiving, community, and the reality of raising children with different support needs.Key Timestamps0:02 - I welcome Tabitha and ask who she was before diagnosis entered motherhood2:46 - How her daughters’ autism and TSC diagnoses began to unfold4:17 - The guilt that followed missing early autism signs6:33 - What it felt like to hear a rare diagnosis for the first time8:43 - What each child taught her about patience and the healthcare system15:06 - The moment she realized this was more than “just a phase”16:42 - Why she leaned into diagnosis instead of fearing the label25:20 - The part of caregiving most people never see27:04 - What strength really feels like on the inside31:02 - Why she started sharing her story to help other families36:27 - What she’d place in the hands of a mom in early uncertaintyGet you copy of the Anti-Planner - https://shop.adhddd.com/NEURODIVERGENT_CONNECTIONIf this episode speaks to you, listen through to the end and share it with someone who needs that reminder: you’re not alone.#AutismSupport #NeurodivergentConnection #ParentingSpecialNeeds #TSCawareness #CaregiverSupportHosted by Reid Miles.Conversations unfold naturally — no scripts, no rush.🎧 Subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts🌐 More about the show and past episodes: https://podcast.ausha.co/neurodivergantconnection-thecuriousstroyteller📩 Guest inquiries & media: [email protected] on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

When ADHD, Trauma, and “Whispers” Start Making SenseIn this episode, I sit down with Annie talk about what it feels like when your brain, body, and past are all trying to get your attention at once.We get into Annie’s path from military service to trauma research, and how an ADHD diagnosis helped her make sense of years of feeling out of step with the world around her. Along the way, we talk about the subtle ways trauma can hide in plain sight, why some neurodivergent people experience the world more intensely, and what those quiet “whispers” from the body might really be saying.If you’ve ever thought, maybe I’m fine, but something still feels off, this conversation will give you a new lens to look through. I’m also sharing why trauma doesn’t always look dramatic, how it can show up as personality, stress, or disconnection, and why that matters for neurodivergent people in everyday life.About the GuestAnnie is a military veteran, metaphysical trauma researcher, and author who studies how trauma, nervous system patterns, and neurodivergence show up in real life.Timestamps0:02 - I welcome Annie and we begin with her military experience2:33 - What an ADHD diagnosis changed when Annie looked back on her life6:46 - Why some neurodivergent people process meditation and awareness differently8:28 - The “cargo container” Annie carried without language for it14:33 - Why people say they don’t have trauma, even when it shapes everything17:40 - How trauma can show up in homes, habits, and relationships24:19 - Using AI to better understand conflict, tone, and compassion31:21 - Annie explains her “Black Room” method33:08 - What “whispers” from the body can look like in daily life36:32 - A real-life look at the 6 Layers of BelongingAnnies Website: https://oneemprima.com/Pre-Order a copy of her book here: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/trauma-whispers-before-it-roars-annie-emprima/1150805354?ean=9798995925538Get you copy of the Anti-Planner - https://shop.adhddd.com/NEURODIVERGENT_CONNECTION If this conversation speaks to you, listen to the full episode and share it with someone who needs a better way to understand ADHD, trauma, and neurodivergence.#ADHD #TraumaHealing #Neurodivergent #AutismAwareness #MentalHealthHosted by Reid Miles.Conversations unfold naturally — no scripts, no rush.🎧 Subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts🌐 More about the show and past episodes: https://podcast.ausha.co/neurodivergantconnection-thecuriousstroyteller📩 Guest inquiries & media: [email protected] on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

What If the Life You’re Living Was Never Really Yours?In this episode, I sit down with Shruti Trivedi to talk about purpose, grief, mental health, and the quiet pressure of living by someone else’s script.We explore what happens when life forces you to stop, question everything, and ask, Whose life am I living? Shruti shares how moving from IT into coaching changed the way she sees success, self-care, and what it means to live with peace instead of just performance.We also talk about pregnancy loss, why so many hard experiences stay unspoken, and how small shifts in language can change how we carry pain. Then we turn to something every parent, educator, and caregiver will care about: the life skills kids aren’t always taught, from listening to handling emotions and building real human connection.And just when the conversation seems grounded in the present, we look ahead to AI, the future of work, and what we can’t afford to lose as technology keeps moving faster.If you’ve ever felt stuck, disconnected, or unsure what really matters anymore, this conversation may leave you with a few big questions you didn’t know you needed to ask.About the GuestShruti Trivedi is a former IT professional turned coach who helps people reconnect with purpose, process grief, and create space for more honest, meaningful lives. Her work is shaped by her personal experience with pregnancy loss, therapy, parenting, and mental health advocacy.Timestamps0:03 - I welcome Shruti and we begin with purpose, education, and where humanity may be headed7:35 - Shruti shares the personal experiences that changed her path11:11 - We talk about the “template of life” and what it means to question it13:39 - What Shruti had to unlearn in parenting, work, and relationships15:26 - How her definition of success changed over time17:28 - The life skills schools often miss19:28 - The one skill every child should leave school with22:21 - Why we spend more time learning how to do than how to be27:58 - What excites and worries us about AI and the future35:25 - Shruti’s message for anyone feeling trapped by society’s scriptGet you copy of the Anti-Planner - https://shop.adhddd.com/NEURODIVERGENT_CONNECTION If this episode speaks to you, listen through to the end and share it with someone who may need it. Subscribe for more conversations on mental health, purpose, parenting, education, and human connection.#MentalHealth #Purpose #Parenting #AIandHumanity #LifeSkillsHosted by Reid Miles.Conversations unfold naturally — no scripts, no rush.🎧 Subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts🌐 More about the show and past episodes: https://podcast.ausha.co/neurodivergantconnection-thecuriousstroyteller📩 Guest inquiries & media: [email protected] on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

When Neurodivergence, Identity, and Spiritual Sensitivity CollideWhat happens when a diagnosis doesn’t feel big enough to explain your experience of the world? In this episode, I sit down with Alice Dillon to explore that question from a deeply personal and thought-provoking angle.We talk about what it means to live with labels like ADHD and neurodivergent while also feeling that something more personal, intuitive, or hard to name is going on underneath. Along the way, I challenge the role of diagnosis, belonging, masking, and the quiet pressure to fit into a world that often misunderstands difference.Alice shares how she’s made sense of her own experience over time, why some labels help while others can feel limiting, and what she believes gets missed when we explain everything through a clinical lens alone. We also get into a bigger question I think many people in this community carry: What if the very traits we’ve been told to tone down are part of what the world needs most?About the GuestAlice Dylan is an author, teacher, and intuitive guide. She’s the author of Alone in a Sea of Normal and shares her work through Facebook and YouTube as @askalice9999.Key Timestamps0:14 - What it feels like when sensitivity gets a clinical name3:41 - The tension between self-diagnosis, identity, and support11:13 - How Alice understood herself before “neurodivergent” became common16:31 - What belonging looked like without labels23:48 - What “spiritual perception” feels like day to day27:47 - The childhood moment that changed everything30:18 - Holding science, diagnosis, and lived experience at the same time35:41 - What could change if neurodivergent people didn’t have to keep fighting to fit in48:07 - What might sit at the core of these experiences beyond labels51:43 - Where to find Alice and her bookhttps://shop.adhddd.com/NEURODIVERGENT_CONNECTIONIf you’ve ever felt caught between diagnosis, intuition, and the need to be understood, this conversation will give you a lot to think about. Listen in, then tell me what stood out to you most.#Neurodivergent #ADHD #AutismAwareness #MentalHealthPodcast #NeurodiversityHosted by Reid Miles.Conversations unfold naturally — no scripts, no rush.🎧 Subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts🌐 More about the show and past episodes: https://podcast.ausha.co/neurodivergantconnection-thecuriousstroyteller📩 Guest inquiries & media: [email protected] on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Why Connection Can Feel So Hard for Autistic Adults—and What Might HelpWhat if the problem isn’t a lack of interest in connection, but years of being misunderstood?In this episode, I sit down with Trista to talk about autism, loneliness, safety, and why finding the right kind of connection can feel so complicated for autistic adults. We explore the gap between being around people and actually feeling known, and we get into the questions many families and professionals still avoid.I’m sharing a conversation about friendship, dating, masking, independence, and the real risks that can come with rejection or manipulation. Trista also explains why she created Capable Hearts, an app designed to help autistic adults meet others in a space built with shared understanding in mind. More importantly, we talk about what true support should look like without taking choice away.If you’ve ever wondered how to support an autistic adult without controlling them, or why “included” doesn’t always mean “connected,” this episode will give you a lot to think about.About the GuestTrista is a BCBA and the creator of Capable Hearts. She has spent years supporting autistic individuals and families, with a strong focus on communication, independence, and meaningful connection.https://shop.adhddd.com/NEURODIVERGENT_CONNECTIONKey Timestamps0:02 - I welcome Trista and ask how she first got into this work4:48 - The person who changed how she understood autism8:34 - Looking beneath behavior instead of judging what’s visible14:53 - Why she felt autistic adults needed a different way to connect20:25 - Why existing apps didn’t feel safe or supportive enough24:15 - Isolation, misunderstanding, and autistic loneliness26:38 - What Trista wanted the app experience to feel like40:00 - Safety, vulnerability, and protecting independence46:27 - How families can talk about relationships without shame53:01 - What she wants autistic people to know after rejectioncheck out the app on the appstore or android storehttps://capablehearts.com/If this conversation speaks to you, listen to the full episode and share it with a parent, educator, caregiver, or autistic adult who may need it.#Autism #Neurodiversity #AutisticAdults #DisabilitySupport #InclusiveRelationshipsHosted by Reid Miles.Conversations unfold naturally — no scripts, no rush.🎧 Subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts🌐 More about the show and past episodes: https://podcast.ausha.co/neurodivergantconnection-thecuriousstroyteller📩 Guest inquiries & media: [email protected] on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

How Catherine Hughes Turned a Family Crisis Into Advocacy, Belonging, and HopeWhat happens when a parent asks for help and the system gets it painfully wrong? In this episode, I sit down with Catherine Hughes for a conversation that starts with heartbreak and grows into something every caregiver, educator, and neurodivergent person needs to hear.Catherine shares the moment that changed her life as a young mother, and why that experience pushed her to speak up for families who feel blamed, dismissed, or left to figure it all out alone. Along the way, we talk about autism, advocacy, belonging, caregiver support, and the quiet power of being truly heard.You’ll hear why “fitting in” isn’t the goal, what real belonging can look like at home, in schools, and in the community, and why stories often reach people in ways facts can’t. We also get into something many families carry in silence: the guilt of asking for help.About the GuestCatherine Hughes is an advocate, speaker, author, and leader in behavioral health. She supports caregivers and neurodivergent individuals through her work and through The Caffeinated Advocate, where she helps families find support, voice, and connection.If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed, unseen, or unsure where to turn next, I think this conversation will stay with you. Listen through to the end, because Catherine shares a simple question that can change how we support each other.Key Timestamps0:02 - I welcome Catherine Hughes and ask about the life that shaped her0:26 - Catherine shares the early signs she noticed in her son and the dismissal she faced6:05 - The arrest, foster care, and the moment everything changed10:20 - How that crisis led Catherine into advocacy and family support16:25 - Why labels should never decide what someone is capable of23:26 - When Catherine’s personal pain became a clear mission27:36 - Why compassion matters more than compliance in care32:16 - What belonging really means beyond inclusion39:38 - Why public speaking didn’t come naturally, and what changed55:19 - What caregivers need to remember about caring for themselves62:50 - What schools, workplaces, and communities still need to change69:31 - The everyday moments that still give Catherine hopeCatherines Resources:Website:thecaffeinatedadvocate.comEmail:[email protected] this episode speaks to you, listen, share it with someone who needs it, and stay connected for more conversations on neurodiversity, autism, ADHD, caregiving, and belonging.#Neurodiversity #AutismAwareness #CaregiverSupport #Belonging #AdvocacyHosted by Reid Miles.Conversations unfold naturally — no scripts, no rush.🎧 Subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts🌐 More about the show and past episodes: https://podcast.ausha.co/neurodivergantconnection-thecuriousstroyteller📩 Guest inquiries & media: [email protected] on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

When Advocacy Starts at Home: What Beth Silver Taught Me About Support, Labels, and Being BraveWhat happens when a parent stops waiting for answers and starts building a way forward for their child?In this episode, I sit down with Beth Silver for a deeply honest conversation about raising neurodivergent children, facing fear in real time, and learning how to ask for help without shame. Beth shares how motherhood pushed her from marketing and PR into advocacy, and why some of the hardest lessons came from school meetings, therapy rooms, and moments when no clear answer was in sight.We talk about the weight parents carry, why the right diagnosis can matter more than people want to admit, and how support can change everything when it finally feels real. Beth also opens up about boundaries, burnout, self-care, and the quiet strength it takes to keep showing up when you’re running on coffee and courage.If you’re parenting a neurodivergent child, supporting one, or trying to understand your own experience, I think this conversation will stay with you. You’ll hear stories that may feel familiar—and a few truths that might shift how you see advocacy, communication, and what being brave really looks like.About the GuestBeth Silver is a marketing consultant, advocate, and trusted support for families raising neurodivergent children. Through her work and community connections, she helps parents find clarity, resources, and a plan when life feels overwhelming.Timestamps0:46 - I welcome Beth Silver and ask who she was before advocacy became part of her life3:12 - The first signs her son was experiencing the world differently6:50 - Fear, school struggles, and learning how to ask for help9:00 - When the hardest part becomes the world’s response13:38 - Why support systems and boundaries matter more than most parents realize16:56 - What survival mode looked like day to day25:16 - How helping other families became part of Beth’s purpose41:12 - How parenting changed the way Beth thinks about communication52:15 - What Beth wants overwhelmed parents to hear right now57:35 - The legacy she hopes her children carry forwardBeth's Resourses:Website: doubetllc.comInstagram: @bethwouldknowIf this episode speaks to you, listen all the way through and share it with someone who needs to hear they’re not alone.#NeurodivergentConnection #AutismSupport #ADHDSupport #ParentAdvocacy #NeurodiversityHosted by Reid Miles.Conversations unfold naturally — no scripts, no rush.🎧 Subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts🌐 More about the show and past episodes: https://podcast.ausha.co/neurodivergantconnection-thecuriousstroyteller📩 Guest inquiries & media: [email protected] on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

When Co-Parenting Keeps You on Edge: Finding Peace After Divorce with SolI sat down with Sol for a deeply honest conversation about divorce, co-parenting, healing, and what it takes to stop living in constant reaction mode.In this episode, I explore what life can feel like after a relationship ends, especially when you still have to stay connected as parents. Sal shares how overwhelm, conflict, and self-doubt shaped his early days after divorce, and how he slowly began to rebuild trust in himself. Along the way, we talk about boundaries, isolation, emotional triggers, and the quiet inner work that can change how you show up for your kids and for yourself.What struck me most is how Sol turned a painful personal experience into something practical for other co-parents. I’m sharing how that idea took shape, why emotional distance can matter so much in high-conflict communication, and what many people miss about the real weight of co-parenting.If you’re parenting through separation, supporting someone who is, or trying to understand how healing and neurodivergent traits can intersect with stress, this conversation will give you a lot to think about.About the GuestSol is a creative entrepreneur and co-parent who built Best Interest, an app designed to help reduce conflict in co-parent communication using AI-supported message review.Timestamps0:02 - I welcome Sol and we begin before the divorce2:38 - Sol reflects on having a brain that resists neat labels4:19 - The moment he knew he couldn’t keep living this way8:01 - Parenting young kids through divorce and COVID10:01 - How creativity helped protect both him and his children14:21 - What people don’t understand about co-parenting15:46 - The isolation of high-conflict co-parenting22:12 - The grounding practice that changed his healing27:58 - How lived experience became the Best Interest app36:19 - What feels most different about who he is now41:46 - What Sal hopes others take from his storyIf this episode speaks to you, listen through to the end and share it with someone who needs a little more support around divorce, co-parenting, healing, or neurodivergence.#CoParenting #DivorceHealing #NeurodivergentSupport #ParentingAfterDivorce #MentalHealthHosted by Reid Miles.Conversations unfold naturally — no scripts, no rush.🎧 Subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts🌐 More about the show and past episodes: https://podcast.ausha.co/neurodivergantconnection-thecuriousstroyteller📩 Guest inquiries & media: [email protected] on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

What a Late ADHD Diagnosis Can Change About Identity, Belonging, and Self-ForgivenessWhat happens when you spend decades feeling different, and then finally get the words for why? In this conversation, I sit down with Mark Steiner to talk about what shifted for him after receiving an ADHD diagnosis later in life.We talk about the quiet friction so many people carry for years, especially when they’ve learned to cope, create, lead, and keep moving without fully understanding their own minds. Mark shares how that late diagnosis brought relief, but also opened the door to deeper questions about self-worth, past pain, and the stories we tell ourselves.You’ll hear us explore identity, masking, creativity, emotional intensity, and why being different, not less matters so much in neurodiversity conversations. Mark also shares how ADHD shaped his work as a founder and leader, and why self-acceptance changed the way he sees both his success and his past.If you’ve ever wondered whether there’s a reason life has felt harder than it looked from the outside, this episode may leave you with a few important questions of your own.About the GuestMark Steiner is the founder and CEO of GigSalad, a platform that has helped thousands of artists and entertainers connect with opportunities. He’s also a creative, speaker, and late-diagnosed ADHD adult who now speaks openly about identity, belonging, and self-understanding. Find him at thinkupon.com.Timestamps0:53 - I welcome Mark Steiner and ask what life felt like before ADHD had a name6:21 - Mark shares where ADHD helped him thrive and where it made life harder12:20 - We talk about being different, not less16:15 - How Mark’s creative mind shaped his work with artists and entrepreneurs22:15 - The moment of diagnosis and the relief that followed26:25 - How his past began to look different through a new lens28:29 - What changed in the way he saw himself as a leader and creator33:59 - How adoption and neurodivergence intersected in his sense of belonging37:37 - What helps different kinds of minds thrive42:48 - What Mark wants listeners to hear if they’re still searching for answersIf this conversation speaks to you, listen to the full episode and share it with someone who may need it too. Stay curious, stay fearless, and remember: you’re never alone. #ADHD #Neurodiversity #LateDiagnosis #MentalHealth #TheNeurodivergentConnectionHosted by Reid Miles.Conversations unfold naturally — no scripts, no rush.🎧 Subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts🌐 More about the show and past episodes: https://podcast.ausha.co/neurodivergantconnection-thecuriousstroyteller📩 Guest inquiries & media: [email protected] on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

What Changes When I Stop Asking “What’s Wrong With Me?”If you’ve ever felt too much, too different, or deeply misunderstood, this conversation will stay with you.In this episode, I sit down with Patricia Stellamares to talk about masking, survival, late-diagnosed AuDHD, and what happens when we stop trying to be easier for other people to understand. We explore the quiet cost of living in self-protection for too long, and the relief that can come when your neurodivergence finally has a name.Patricia shares how childhood shame, trauma, and being told she was “wrong” shaped the way she moved through the world. Then, we get into the shift from surviving to actually living, what being truly seen can do to the nervous system, and why healing often has less to do with “fixing” yourself and more to do with letting go of harmful stories.If you’ve been carrying questions about belonging, self-trust, or what healing can look like after years of exhaustion, I think this episode will give you a lot to sit with.About the GuestPatricia Stellamares is the founder of Invocation Healing Arts. She creates retreats, coaching experiences, and healing spaces that support neurodivergent people, couples, and anyone working through trauma, self-doubt, and identity.Key Timestamps0:02 - I welcome Patricia Stellamares to the show2:49 - When feeling “different” started to feel like being “wrong”5:05 - How long that story followed her8:48 - The first time she felt truly seen and believed16:08 - The moment survival and living stopped feeling like the same thing21:14 - What she wishes people understood about neurodivergent lives22:33 - What autism and AuDHD gave her that she didn’t have before26:59 - Healing from being told you’re wrong29:54 - What she hopes people discover in her retreat work35:43 - How being truly seen changes us40:12 - Her message for anyone who feels aloneIf this episode speaks to you, listen through to the end and share it with someone who needs a little more understanding today. You can also find Patricia at invocationhealingarts.com.#Neurodivergent #AuDHD #AutismAwareness #HealingTrauma #MentalHealthHosted by Reid Miles.Conversations unfold naturally — no scripts, no rush.🎧 Subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts🌐 More about the show and past episodes: https://podcast.ausha.co/neurodivergantconnection-thecuriousstroyteller📩 Guest inquiries & media: [email protected] on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

When Co-Parenting Keeps You on Edge: Finding Peace After Divorce with SolI sat down with Sal for a deeply honest conversation about divorce, co-parenting, healing, and what it takes to stop living in constant reaction mode.In this episode, I explore what life can feel like after a relationship ends, especially when you still have to stay connected as parents. Sal shares how overwhelm, conflict, and self-doubt shaped his early days after divorce, and how he slowly began to rebuild trust in himself. Along the way, we talk about boundaries, isolation, emotional triggers, and the quiet inner work that can change how you show up for your kids and for yourself.What struck me most is how Sal turned a painful personal experience into something practical for other co-parents. I’m sharing how that idea took shape, why emotional distance can matter so much in high-conflict communication, and what many people miss about the real weight of co-parenting.If you’re parenting through separation, supporting someone who is, or trying to understand how healing and neurodivergent traits can intersect with stress, this conversation will give you a lot to think about.About the GuestSol is a creative entrepreneur and co-parent who built Best Interest, an app designed to help reduce conflict in co-parent communication using AI-supported message review.Timestamps0:02 - I welcome Sol and we begin before the divorce2:38 - Sol reflects on having a brain that resists neat labels4:19 - The moment he knew he couldn’t keep living this way8:01 - Parenting young kids through divorce and COVID10:01 - How creativity helped protect both him and his children14:21 - What people don’t understand about co-parenting15:46 - The isolation of high-conflict co-parenting22:12 - The grounding practice that changed his healing27:58 - How lived experience became the Best Interest app36:19 - What feels most different about who he is now41:46 - What Sol hopes others take from his storyIf this episode speaks to you, listen through to the end and share it with someone who needs a little more support around divorce, co-parenting, healing, or neurodivergence.#CoParenting #DivorceHealing #NeurodivergentSupport #ParentingAfterDivorce #MentalHealthHosted by Reid Miles.Conversations unfold naturally — no scripts, no rush.🎧 Subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts🌐 More about the show and past episodes: https://podcast.ausha.co/neurodivergantconnection-thecuriousstroyteller📩 Guest inquiries & media: [email protected] on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

What Helps Neurodivergent Kids Thrive When School Doesn’t Fit?What happens when a child isn’t failing because they can’t learn, but because the system isn’t built for how they learn? In this conversation, I sit down with Dr. Jeremy Tiegerman to talk about what truly helps neurodivergent students grow.We get into the teachers who change everything, why confidence can matter just as much as accommodations, and what families need to hear when they feel worn down. I also share parts of my own school story, because this topic isn’t abstract for me, it’s personal.You’ll hear why self-advocacy can’t wait until college, what schools still miss about autistic and learning disabled students, and why labels only tell part of the story. Dr. Tiegerman also explains the bigger mission behind his family’s work and the belief that no child should be counted out.If you’re a parent, educator, caregiver, or someone finding your way after a diagnosis, I think this episode will leave you with hope, and maybe a few hard questions worth sitting with.About the GuestDr. Jeremy Tiegerman is a psychologist and Chief Operating Officer of Tiegerman, an organization that supports children and adults with learning, language, and developmental needs. His work spans assessment, education, advocacy, and family support.Timestamps0:02 - I welcome Dr. Jeremy Tiegerman and we start with the human side of his story5:49 - How his family history shaped his work in special education12:38 - Why strengths matter just as much as struggles22:48 - What parents need to know about advocacy and support27:17 - Why self-advocacy becomes critical in college31:35 - When traditional education falls short for neurodivergent students42:16 - What schools still misunderstand about autistic students46:42 - What parents taught him that textbooks never could55:31 - What gives him hope, and what still needs to change63:07 - His message for exhausted parents who are scared about the futureDr. Tiegermen's Resources:Tiegerman website - www.tiegerman.org. Dr. Tegerman shared this as the main place to learn more about the organization and its programs.Tiegerman main phone number - 516-609-2000, extension 100 for the receptionist. He said this is a starting point for being directed to the right person or service.If this conversation speaks to you, listen to the full episode and share it with someone who needs the reminder that they’re not alone.#NeurodivergentConnection #AutismSupport #ADHDAwareness #SpecialEducation #ParentAdvocacyHosted by Reid Miles.Conversations unfold naturally — no scripts, no rush.🎧 Subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts🌐 More about the show and past episodes: https://podcast.ausha.co/neurodivergantconnection-thecuriousstroyteller📩 Guest inquiries & media: [email protected] on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

When You’ve Always Felt Different: Marie on Being Seen Beyond LabelsIf you’ve ever felt too sensitive, too different, or too hard to explain, this conversation will likely stay with you.In this episode, I sit down with Marie to talk about what it’s like to move through life without neat labels, while still knowing you don’t fit the mold. We talk about feeling “other” from a young age, the deep relief that comes from being truly seen, and why so many people spend years thinking something is wrong with them when that may not be the full story.Marie shares how she makes sense of the space between psychology, education, spirituality, and lived experience. We also get into what happens when schools and mental health systems don’t know how to support people who think, feel, or process the world differently. Along the way, I explore why validation matters so much, and what it can change when someone finally feels understood.If you’re neurodivergent, newly questioning your experience, or supporting someone who feels outside the usual boxes, you’ll hear ideas here that may raise new questions in the best way.About the GuestMarie has a PhD in health psychology and a long background in education, healing work, and guiding people who feel unseen by traditional systems. Her work blends practical insight with a grounded approach to unusual human experiences.Key Timestamps0:02 - I welcome Marie and we begin with her story1:30 - What feeling different looked like before there were words for it6:23 - How activism, mysticism, and experience shaped her path15:45 - Where psychology helps, and where it falls short21:47 - Living between systems that don’t fully fit27:00 - What people are really searching for when they come to her34:07 - What she listens for beyond someone’s words42:01 - Why education and mental health systems often miss the people who need them most51:20 - What Marie wants you to remember if you’ve never fit the boxesIf this episode speaks to you, listen through to the end and share it with someone who needs the reminder that they’re not broken—they may just need to be seen differently.#Neurodiversity #AutismAwareness #ADHDSupport #MentalHealth #PodcastHosted by Reid Miles.Conversations unfold naturally — no scripts, no rush.🎧 Subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts🌐 More about the show and past episodes: https://podcast.ausha.co/neurodivergantconnection-thecuriousstroyteller📩 Guest inquiries & media: [email protected] on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

When AuDHD, Unmasking, and Perimenopause CollideWhat happens when your brain finally makes sense, just as your old coping tools stop working?In this episode, I sit down with Heather Zimmerman for an honest conversation about late discovery, AuDHD, masking, and the very real shift that can happen during perimenopause. We talk about what it’s like to look back at your life through a new lens, why so many women are missed or misread for years, and what changes when you stop trying to fit into spaces that were never built for you.Heather shares her perspective with both personal experience and professional insight, which makes this conversation especially powerful. We also get into overstimulation, literal thinking, burnout, identity, and the quiet relief that can come when you finally understand why life has felt harder than it looked from the outside.Heather Zimmerman has a master’s in psychology and is the founder of Divine Ascension Co. She creates content around neurodivergence, perimenopause, intuition, and self-understanding.If you’ve ever wondered whether masking is costing you more than you realized, or why certain life stages seem to turn the volume up on everything, this episode will give you a lot to think about.Timestamps0:01 - Why AuDHD, unmasking, and perimenopause matter together1:11 - What life felt like before having the language for it10:11 - From “something feels off” to understanding how the brain works13:12 - What perimenopause changed mentally, emotionally, and physically22:10 - How masking showed up and why it became too exhausting25:13 - What overstimulation can really look like in daily life35:27 - What regulation actually means for an AuDHD nervous system48:56 - What Heather wants overwhelmed listeners to hear right nowHeathers Resources:Divine Ascension Co - Heather shared this as the main place to find her work, links, and updates. She said the easiest next step is to visit divineascensionco.com.Facebook: Divine Ascension Co - Heather mentioned her Facebook page as another way to connect with her content. She suggested searching for Divine Ascension Co because her name is common online.YouTube: Divine Ascension Co - Heather said her YouTube channel includes a series on neurodivergence and perimenopause. It was mentioned as a place where she talks more about underdiagnosis and medical gaslighting, especially for women.If this conversation speaks to you, listen to the full episode and share it with someone who needs language for what they’re living through.#AuDHD #Neurodivergent #Perimenopause #AutismAwareness #ADHDSupportHosted by Reid Miles.Conversations unfold naturally — no scripts, no rush.🎧 Subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts🌐 More about the show and past episodes: https://podcast.ausha.co/neurodivergantconnection-thecuriousstroyteller📩 Guest inquiries & media: [email protected] on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

How Rhythm Can Calm the Nervous System and Support Neurodivergent BrainsWhat if something as simple as rhythm could help with stress, focus, and regulation in ways many people never expect?In this episode, I sit down with Dori to talk about how drumming became more than music. What started as a childhood love of tapping on everything grew into a science-based wellness tool she now uses with neurodivergent kids, teens, and adults. Along the way, we talk about the moments that almost pulled her away from music, the surprising reason she came back to it at 47, and what she began noticing in both her own brain and the people she supported.You’ll hear how rhythm can help calm the body, support attention, and create space for connection. We also get into a bigger conversation about misunderstood neurodivergent learners, hidden strengths, and why so many kids are judged by what they struggle with instead of what they can do.If you’ve ever felt scattered, overwhelmed, or unsure how to support a neurodivergent person in your life, I think this conversation will stay with you.About the GuestDori Staley is the founder of Next Stage Drumming. She works with children, teens, and adults using drumming-based wellness programs that support focus, stress relief, confidence, and emotional regulation.Key Timestamps0:01 - I welcome Dori and we start with her early love of rhythm0:31 - How childhood tapping turned into a lifelong pull toward music7:14 - What rhythm felt like to Dori and why it helped her settle13:04 - Why she auditioned for a band at 47 with no formal drumming background15:53 - When she realized rhythm was helping neurodivergent brains20:56 - What drumming can support: focus, stress, regulation, and more27:53 - What drumming does to the nervous system47:58 - A simple way to use rhythm even if you don’t have a drum58:04 - Where to learn more about Dori and her workDori's Resource'sNext Stage Drumming - Dori’s main website for her drum therapy and wellness work. It was mentioned as the best place to learn about her programs, sign up for her newsletter, and access a free video. https://nextstagedrumming.comListen in if you want a fresh way to think about neurodiversity, regulation, and the power of meeting people where they are.#Neurodiversity #ADHD #AutismSupport #EmotionalRegulation #DrummingTherapyHosted by Reid Miles.Conversations unfold naturally — no scripts, no rush.🎧 Subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts🌐 More about the show and past episodes: https://podcast.ausha.co/neurodivergantconnection-thecuriousstroyteller📩 Guest inquiries & media: [email protected] on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

What It Really Takes to Keep Going When Life Doesn’t Follow the PlanWhat happens when grief, parenting, leadership, and faith all collide in one life story? In this conversation, I sit down with Debbie Simmons to talk about the moments that shaped her most—and the choices that kept her moving when it would’ve been easier to stop.Debbie’s story doesn’t fit into a neat box. She’s a former engineer, the CEO of Anchor Point, an author, a speaker, and a mother of nine adopted children. Yet what stayed with me most was how honestly she talked about loss, courage, health, family, and the weight of building something meant to serve other people.We get into what it means to take the next step when you don’t have the full picture, how vulnerability can make room for real community, and why grit alone isn’t always enough. Debbie also shares a few hard-earned lessons about boundaries, trust, adoption, and the kind of legacy that starts long before the end of your life.If you’ve ever wondered whether you’re strong enough for the chapter you’re in, this episode may leave you thinking about that in a whole new way.About the GuestDebbie Simmons is the CEO of Anchor Point, a nonprofit leader, author, speaker, wife, mother of nine adopted children, and grandmother of fifteen. Her work centers on trust, healing, leadership, and living with intention.Timestamps0:50 - I welcome Debbie Simmons and we begin with the story behind the bio3:27 - Debbie shares the parts of her life that can’t fit into one sentence9:29 - We talk about nonlinear life paths and the value of every chapter12:59 - The painful season that became important later18:49 - How Debbie built a nonprofit one step at a time23:08 - Why she sees herself as a builder, not a maintainer41:28 - How adopting nine children changed her understanding of family48:22 - Where she found her limits and what it cost to ignore them56:30 - We discuss risk, uncertainty, and trusting without full clarity73:31 - Debbie explains what legacy means to her nowDebbie's Resources:anchorpoint.ushttps://thedebbiesimmons.com/Free book, The Heart of Legacy:theheartoflegacy.comIf this conversation speaks to you, listen to the full episode and share it with someone who may need the reminder that tomorrow is a fresh start.#TheCuriousStoryteller #DebbieSimmons #Legacy #Adoption #FaithAndResilienceHosted by Reid Miles.Conversations unfold naturally — no scripts, no rush.🎧 Subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts🌐 More about the show and past episodes: https://podcast.ausha.co/neurodivergantconnection-thecuriousstroyteller📩 Guest inquiries & media: [email protected] on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

What Happens to Home, Identity, and Grief When You Build a Life Abroad?What if starting over in a new country doesn’t just change your address, but brings you face to face with who you really are?In this episode, I sit down with Melissa Parks to talk about living abroad, coming home, and the quiet emotional weight that can come with both. We explore what happens when the life you once wanted turns out to be harder than expected, especially for autistic and neurodivergent people trying to make sense of belonging, masking, grief, and identity.Melissa shares how travel, culture, language, and big life transitions shaped the person she became, and why returning home can feel just as disorienting as leaving. Along the way, I also open up about my own experiences studying overseas, traveling alone, and trying to find comfort in unfamiliar places.You’ll hear us unpack the difference between being unhappy and being uprooted, why grief is so often mistaken for failure, and what “home” really means when your heart lives in more than one place.About the GuestMelissa Parks is a writer, coach, and author of A Compassionate Mess. She works with people navigating life across borders, languages, and cultures, with a thoughtful focus on identity, belonging, and emotional well-being.Key Timestamps0:02 - I welcome Melissa Parks and we begin with her early picture of adulthood1:06 - We talk about what “home” meant before life abroad14:44 - Melissa shares when living abroad became real, not temporary16:21 - We compare traveling to actually building a life in another country19:27 - We explore whether living abroad changes us or reveals who we already are27:13 - Melissa explains why people feel guilt when a chosen life feels hard29:40 - We discuss how grief often gets mistaken for failure35:36 - Melissa shares what people misunderstand about coming home49:37 - We talk about her memoir, A Compassionate Mess, and the inner battles behind it53:04 - We end with what “home” means todayMelissa's Resources:Melissaparks.comFind her on all social platforms except TictokIf you’ve ever felt split between places, identities, or versions of yourself, this conversation will stay with you. Listen now, and if it speaks to you, share it with someone who needs the reminder that they’re not alone.#NeurodivergentConnection #AutismAwareness #LivingAbroad #IdentityAndBelonging #NeurodivergentHosted by Reid Miles.Conversations unfold naturally — no scripts, no rush.🎧 Subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts🌐 More about the show and past episodes: https://podcast.ausha.co/neurodivergantconnection-thecuriousstroyteller📩 Guest inquiries & media: [email protected] on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

What Burnout, Trust, and Real Support Look Like for Neurodivergent Kids and Their FamiliesIf you’ve ever wondered what real support actually looks like for a neurodivergent child and their family, this conversation will stay with you.In this episode, I sit down with Antoinette Elliott to talk about the things many people miss: parent burnout, the quiet signs behind a child’s behavior, and why feeling understood can change everything. We get honest about what families carry, what trust really takes, and why some childcare spaces help children settle while others make things worse.I’m also sharing a conversation that raises big questions around school fit, foster care, behavior support, and what happens when adults focus on control instead of connection. If you support a child with autism, ADHD, or other disabilities, you’ll hear why the “right” environment matters more than most people think—and what to notice before a crisis hits.About the GuestAntoinette Elliott is the founder of All Our Children and has spent years creating supportive childcare spaces for families, including those raising neurodivergent children and foster children. Her work centers on meeting children where they are and helping families feel seen, safe, and supported.Key Timestamps0:12 - What Antoinette saw families carrying behind closed doors4:33 - What parent burnout looks like in real life8:49 - What adults often miss when a child is struggling15:49 - Why parents shouldn’t hide their child’s needs from schools24:59 - What can change when a child finally feels understood27:15 - The moment trust starts for overwhelmed families29:46 - What an RBT does and why the right fit matters40:05 - Regulation vs. control in childcare settings42:14 - What foster families really need and why it’s rarely talked about54:43 - Antoinette’s message for parents who feel worn down and aloneAntoinette's resources:AOC Elite Childcare - The center’s website, mentioned as the main place to learn more, view events, and schedule a drop-in day. Visit aocelitechildcare.com.If this episode speaks to you, listen through to the end and share it with a parent, educator, or caregiver who needs this reminder: there are people who care, and you’re not alone.#NeurodivergentConnection #AutismSupport #ADHDAwareness #ParentBurnout #InclusiveChildcareHosted by Reid Miles.Conversations unfold naturally — no scripts, no rush.🎧 Subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts🌐 More about the show and past episodes: https://podcast.ausha.co/neurodivergantconnection-thecuriousstroyteller📩 Guest inquiries & media: [email protected] on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

When Life Stops You Cold: Andrea’s 101 Days in the Hospital and What Came AfterOne ordinary season turned into a fight for life, and in this conversation, I sit with Andrea as she shares what changed when her body could no longer keep going.I wanted to tell this story with care because it speaks to something many of us carry quietly: the pressure to keep pushing, even when something feels deeply wrong. Andrea opens up about the medical crisis that led to sepsis, a coma, emergency surgery, and 101 days in the hospital. Yet this isn’t only about survival. It’s also about what happens to your mind, your identity, and your view of life when everything familiar falls away.As we talk, you’ll hear how she moved through fear, confusion, grief, and the slow work of recovery. I also explore the quiet shifts that changed how she sees gratitude, vulnerability, and the way she wants to live now. There’s one moment involving sunlight and fresh air that says more than any long speech could.About the GuestAndrea is a life coach and workshop leader who helps people build a life with more meaning, appreciation, and purpose after hard seasons.Timestamps0:03 - I welcome Andrea and we go back to life before the medical emergency4:03 - The moment she knew something was seriously wrong7:52 - How she finally got answers after collapsing far from home9:50 - What 101 days in the hospital did to her mentally and emotionally15:07 - Waking up two weeks later from a coma18:29 - The surprising moment that brought comfort in the ICU22:27 - What helped her keep fighting on the hardest days28:41 - How her relationship with her body changed32:14 - What she had to let go of after surviving40:45 - The message she hopes listeners carry into daily lifeAndres Resources: Website: Life Coaching by AndreaSocial: Life Changing by AndreaIf this conversation speaks to you, listen to the full episode and share it with someone who needs hope, perspective, or a reminder to slow down and pay attention.#SepsisSurvivor #HospitalRecovery #MentalHealth #LifeAfterTrauma #TheCuriousStorytellerHosted by Reid Miles.Conversations unfold naturally — no scripts, no rush.🎧 Subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts🌐 More about the show and past episodes: https://podcast.ausha.co/neurodivergantconnection-thecuriousstroyteller📩 Guest inquiries & media: [email protected] on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Are We Seeing Autism Clearly, or Through a Lens That Misses the Whole Person?What if the way I’ve been taught to understand autism is also the thing that keeps me from seeing the full picture?In this conversation, I sit down with Leila Farshchian to talk about a question that doesn’t get asked often enough: when autism is filtered through clinical language, school systems, and service models, what gets lost? We talk about the gap between support on paper and support in real life, why language matters more than many people realize, and what changes when I stop looking at autistic people as a list of needs to manage.You’ll hear us explore why families so often have to carry the weight of advocacy, where schools and care systems still fall short, and why technology may play a bigger role in care than many people expect. We also get into one assumption the field still holds onto that may be doing real harm.About the guest: Leila Farshchian works in autism care with a background in applied behavior analysis and a strong focus on collaboration, access, and practical support for families. She is also connected with Circathera and the Autism Directory, which aim to build stronger connections across the neurodivergent community.If you’ve ever felt like autism support is too fragmented, too clinical, or missing the human side, this episode will give you a lot to think about. Listen in, then share it with someone who needs a better way to see the full person.Timestamps0:02 - Why the usual autism lens can miss the whole child2:50 - How language shapes understanding, care, and identity6:12 - A powerful reminder that every autistic person’s reality is different9:04 - What schools capture well, and where they still fall short12:35 - How education, healthcare, and funding shape real support15:37 - The biggest gap between what professionals know and daily practice16:48 - Why technology may help close the treatment gap19:46 - What I’d change first if autism support centered on understanding21:20 - One assumption about autism the field still needs to question#AutismAwareness #Neurodiversity #AutismSupport #SpecialEducation #DisabilityInclusionHosted by Reid Miles.Conversations unfold naturally — no scripts, no rush.🎧 Subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts🌐 More about the show and past episodes: https://podcast.ausha.co/neurodivergantconnection-thecuriousstroyteller📩 Guest inquiries & media: [email protected] on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

When a Diagnosis Changes Everything: Parenting Autism, Finding Support, and Using Your VoiceWhat happens when you know something is different, but you still don’t have answers?In this episode, I sit down with Missy Brown for an honest conversation about parenting a child with autism and ADHD, the fear and confusion that can come before a diagnosis, and what it really feels like when support is thin and judgment is loud.As we talk, I explore the parts many families live through but don’t always say out loud: long waitlists, broken routines, public meltdowns, lost friendships, and the quiet guilt that can follow a hard day. At the same time, Missy shares how clarity changed things for her, why writing became part of her healing, and how advocacy grew out of everyday survival.You’ll hear why trusting your instincts matters, what parents may need more of from professionals, and the small shift that can help when everything feels like too much. There’s also a powerful reminder here: your child is more than a list of challenges, and you are not failing because this is hard.About the GuestMissy Brown is an autism advocate, author of Soaring Over Skepticism, and a parent raising a neurodivergent child. She shares relatable, real-life support for families navigating autism, ADHD, anxiety, and the daily realities of caregiving.Key Timestamps0:25 - When Missy first noticed her child’s path might look different2:45 - The fear, questions, and lack of support after diagnosis7:16 - What she hoped therapy and support systems would provide12:46 - The early surprises, hard moments, and strengths she saw in her child15:41 - Why getting answers brought relief and clarity16:34 - The moment parenting turned into writing and advocacy21:39 - Why writing felt freeing and scary at the same time28:12 - What she had to unlearn as a parent of an autistic child32:41 - When she realized she was finding her voice38:39 - What overwhelmed parents need to hold on to right now41:19 - One small step parents can take this weekMissy's Resources:Missys Book: Soaring Over SkepticismYou can find her on: LinkedIN and Facebookand you can find out more about Circa TheraIf this conversation speaks to you, listen to the full episode and share it with a parent, educator, or caregiver who needs the reminder that they’re not alone.#AutismSupport #ADHDParenting #NeurodivergentFamilies #AutismAdvocacy #NeurodiversityHosted by Reid Miles.Conversations unfold naturally — no scripts, no rush.🎧 Subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts🌐 More about the show and past episodes: https://podcast.ausha.co/neurodivergantconnection-thecuriousstroyteller📩 Guest inquiries & media: [email protected] on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

When Life Looks Fine but Feels Empty: How I Talked With Laura Marie About Leaving AutopilotWhat if your life looks successful on paper, but deep down it feels numb, routine, and strangely far from you?In this episode, I sit down with Laura Marie to talk about the quiet kind of disconnection so many people carry for years. We get into what it feels like to keep checking all the right boxes while wondering why joy never seems to stay. If you’ve ever thought, Is this really it?, this conversation will likely hit close to home.I’m sharing a discussion about burnout, people-pleasing, hustle culture, and the hard moment when you realize you can’t keep living by someone else’s script. Laura opens up about losing her job, facing the fear of not having a plan, and slowly building a life that feels more honest and more alive.We also talk about why small acts of awareness matter, what core values can show you when you feel stuck, and why support can make all the difference when you’re trying to change course.About the GuestLaura Marie is a coach who helps women reconnect with who they are beneath expectations, productivity, and survival mode so they can create a life that feels true to them.Timestamps1:24 - What “success” felt like behind the scenes5:24 - The whisper that says, “Is this enough?”8:43 - The signs of living on autopilot14:50 - What to do when you can’t leave the job yet17:35 - How burnout can feel like sleepwalking22:20 - A simple place to start when you don’t know what you want30:05 - The midlife moment that changed everything35:31 - Redefining success as time, space, and freedom44:23 - What society gets wrong about happiness and fulfillment54:29 - What Laura wants you to hear if you feel stuckIf this speaks to where you are right now, listen to the full episode and tell me what part stayed with you most.#TheCuriousStoryteller #PersonalGrowth #BurnoutRecovery #MidlifeAwakening #IntentionalLivingHosted by Reid Miles.Conversations unfold naturally — no scripts, no rush.🎧 Subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts🌐 More about the show and past episodes: https://podcast.ausha.co/neurodivergantconnection-thecuriousstroyteller📩 Guest inquiries & media: [email protected] on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Late ADHD Diagnosis, Grief, and Rebuilding Life in Small StepsWhat happens when the person helping others finally realizes the story is also their own?In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Jennifer Dahl to talk about late ADHD diagnosis, masking, grief, trauma, and what it means to rebuild a life when your brain needs a different kind of support. This conversation is honest, practical, and deeply human.We talk about the shock and relief that can come with finally having a name for what you've lived with for years. Then we get into something many people don't say out loud: what it feels like when ADHD overlaps with loss, exhaustion, and major life changes. Dr. Jennifer shares why “trying harder” often misses the point, and why small shifts can make a real difference when big systems fall apart.If you've ever wondered why some advice works for other people but not for you, or how to move forward without pretending you have it all together, this episode will give you a lot to think about.About the GuestDr. Jennifer Dahl has spent more than 25 years supporting students and adults with ADHD. After her own diagnosis, along with experiences of grief, trauma, and brain injury, her work took on an even deeper lived understanding.Timestamps0:02 - I welcome Dr. Jennifer Dahl and we begin with her path to understanding ADHD1:46 - The familiar signs that were hard to name7:45 - Why structure helps until it suddenly disappears11:32 - Her diagnosis, grief, and traumatic brain injury collide16:51 - The mix of relief, grief, and anger after a late diagnosis22:56 - What real support looked like during the hardest season32:44 - Why small shifts can matter more than big plans43:42 - ADHD advice that fails, and what actually helps49:40 - What I hope newly diagnosed listeners hear mostDr Jen's Resources:ADHD Holistically - Dr. Jennifer Dahl’s main website and hub for her work. She shared it as the best place to learn more, join her newsletter, and connect with her resources: adhdholistically.com.Newsletter - Available through ADHD Holistically. Dr. Dall recommended joining it to keep up with her work and updates.Instagram - One of the platforms where Dr. Dall shares ideas and stays in touch with people who follow her work. She invited listeners to follow her there for ongoing support and updates.LinkedIn - Another platform Dr. Dall mentioned for connecting online. She noted that she is posting there more and encouraged people to reach out.If this speaks to you, listen to the full episode and share it with someone who needs to feel seen. #ADHD #Neurodiversity #LateDiagnosis #GriefSupport #MentalHealthHosted by Reid Miles.Conversations unfold naturally — no scripts, no rush.🎧 Subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts🌐 More about the show and past episodes: https://podcast.ausha.co/neurodivergantconnection-thecuriousstroyteller📩 Guest inquiries & media: [email protected] on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Late ADHD Diagnosis, Grief, and Rebuilding Life in Small StepsWhat happens when the person helping others finally realizes the story is also their own?In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Jennifer Dahl to talk about late ADHD diagnosis, masking, grief, trauma, and what it means to rebuild a life when your brain needs a different kind of support. This conversation is honest, practical, and deeply human.We talk about the shock and relief that can come with finally having a name for what you've lived with for years. Then we get into something many people don't say out loud: what it feels like when ADHD overlaps with loss, exhaustion, and major life changes. Dr. Jennifer shares why “trying harder” often misses the point, and why small shifts can make a real difference when big systems fall apart.If you've ever wondered why some advice works for other people but not for you, or how to move forward without pretending you have it all together, this episode will give you a lot to think about.About the GuestDr. Jennifer Dahl has spent more than 25 years supporting students and adults with ADHD. After her own diagnosis, along with experiences of grief, trauma, and brain injury, her work took on an even deeper lived understanding.Timestamps0:02 - I welcome Dr. Jennifer Dahl and we begin with her path to understanding ADHD1:46 - The familiar signs that were hard to name7:45 - Why structure helps until it suddenly disappears11:32 - Her diagnosis, grief, and traumatic brain injury collide16:51 - The mix of relief, grief, and anger after a late diagnosis22:56 - What real support looked like during the hardest season32:44 - Why small shifts can matter more than big plans43:42 - ADHD advice that fails, and what actually helps49:40 - What I hope newly diagnosed listeners hear mostIf this speaks to you, listen to the full episode and share it with someone who needs to feel seen. #ADHD #Neurodiversity #LateDiagnosis #GriefSupport #MentalHealthDr. Jens Resources:ADHD Holistically - Dr. Jennifer Dall's main website and hub for her work. She shared it as the best place to learn more, join her newsletter, and connect with her resources: adhdholistically.com.Newsletter - Available through ADHD Holistically. Dr. Dall recommended joining it to keep up with her work and updates.Instagram - One of the platforms where Dr. Dall shares ideas and stays in touch with people who follow her work. She invited listeners to follow her there for ongoing support and updates.LinkedIn - Another platform Dr. Dall mentioned for connecting online. She noted that she is posting there more and encouraged people to reach out.Hosted by Reid Miles.Conversations unfold naturally — no scripts, no rush.🎧 Subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts🌐 More about the show and past episodes: https://podcast.ausha.co/neurodivergantconnection-thecuriousstroyteller📩 Guest inquiries & media: [email protected] on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

When Life Looks Fine on Paper but Feels Empty InsideWhat happens when you do everything “right” and still feel like something is missing? In this conversation, I sit down with Laura Marie to talk about the quiet ache of living on autopilot, chasing productivity, and waking up to the fact that success on paper doesn’t always feel like peace in real life.Laura shares what changed when she hit midlife, lost her job, and finally had to face the question so many people avoid: Is this really the life I want? We talk about burnout, identity, hustle culture, and the small shifts that can help you notice your own life again before it passes in a blur.If you’ve been stuck in routine, feeling numb, or wondering why a “good” life still feels heavy, this episode will give you a lot to think about. I also ask Laura about redefining success, setting better boundaries, and why real joy often looks much simpler than we expect.About the GuestLaura Marie is a coach and guide who helps women question old expectations, reconnect with their values, and build a life that feels more honest, spacious, and fully their own.Key Timestamps0:02 - I welcome Laura Marie and we begin with the hidden emptiness behind a “successful” life2:32 - Laura describes the quiet voice asking, “Is this all there is?”7:31 - The signs she was living on autopilot for years13:38 - What to do when you can’t leave your job but know something needs to change16:24 - What burnout and overwhelm looked like in everyday life21:08 - Why core values matter when you don’t know what you want28:53 - The moment losing her job forced her to question success34:20 - How she began redefining freedom, joy, and fulfillment40:17 - What helped her stay committed when doubt showed up47:07 - Why so many people stay stuck in the hustle cycle53:18 - Laura’s starting point for anyone who feels trapped on autopilotLaura's Resources:www.wildawakewoman.com@livingwildawake on Facebook and InstagramIf this conversation hits close to home, listen all the way through and share it with someone who may need it too. For more conversations on personal growth, burnout, midlife change, and living with intention, follow along and stay connected.#MidlifeAwakening #BurnoutRecovery #IntentionalLiving #PersonalGrowth #LifeOnAutopilotHosted by Reid Miles.Conversations unfold naturally — no scripts, no rush.🎧 Subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts🌐 More about the show and past episodes: https://podcast.ausha.co/neurodivergantconnection-thecuriousstroyteller📩 Guest inquiries & media: [email protected] on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

What Changes When a Whole Family Finally Has the Words for Autism and ADHD?What happens when years of chaos, guilt, and confusion finally start to make sense?In this episode, I sit down with Walter and Stephanie Parker for an honest conversation about raising three neurodivergent daughters while also making sense of their own diagnoses. We talk about what life looked like before they had language for autism, ADHD, alexithymia, and rejection sensitivity, and why getting answers changed the way they saw their marriage, parenting, and even themselves.What stayed with me most is how much this episode speaks to families who know something feels different but can’t quite explain it yet. We get into the grief, the relief, the missed signs, and the small shifts that can change everything at home. We also talk about stigma, burnout, masking, and why the right support can mean the difference between surviving and actually feeling understood.Walter and Stephanie are the founders of Divergent by Design, a growing online community focused on neurodivergent support, education, and coaching. Together, they’re helping families feel less alone and more seen.If you’ve ever wondered, Is this what’s been going on in my home all along? this is an episode you’ll want to hear all the way through.Key Timestamps0:26 - What family life looked like before anyone had a diagnosis2:58 - The moment autism started making sense6:00 - How diagnosis changed their marriage and parenting13:31 - Living with alexithymia in a neurodiverse home16:44 - What a typical day looks like with three neurodivergent daughters22:44 - The real impact of stigma at work and in public life28:50 - Why building community is harder than it sounds41:00 - How their family shaped Divergent by Design and Full Spectrum Lender49:07 - The honest conversations people still avoid about autism and ADHD64:10 - What they hope their daughters carry into the worldWalter & Stephanie's Resources:Website:divergentbydesignllc.com — Stephanie’s life coaching and neurodivergence support siteFacebook Group: Divergent by Design — community space for connection, education, and supportFacebook Page: Divergent by Design LLC — updates, content, and resourcesTikTok: Divergent by Design LLC — short-form educational contentInstagram: Divergent by Design LLC — visuals, tips, and community contentBrand Mentioned: Full Spectrum Lender — Walter’s mortgage and real estate lending brandIf this conversation resonates with you, listen to the full episode and share it with someone who needs clearer language, more support, or simply the reminder that they’re not alone.#AutismAwareness #ADHDSupport #NeurodivergentFamilies #Neurodiversity #ParentingSupportHosted by Reid Miles.Conversations unfold naturally — no scripts, no rush.🎧 Subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts🌐 More about the show and past episodes: https://podcast.ausha.co/neurodivergantconnection-thecuriousstroyteller📩 Guest inquiries & media: [email protected] on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

What If Your Gut, Brain, and Nervous System Have Been Talking All Along?What if the symptoms you’ve been trying to “fix” are actually messages worth hearing?In this episode, I sit down with Heather Van Tassel to talk about the gut-brain connection, meditation, concussion recovery, and what it means to understand yourself when your mind and body don’t fit neat boxes. We get into the space between science and lived experience, and why that space matters more than most people realize.You’ll hear how Heather’s background in biochemistry, neuroscience, and nutrition shaped the way she thinks about chronic gut issues, nervous system stress, and mental health. We also talk about self-recognition, ADHD traits without a formal diagnosis, and why support doesn’t always start with a label.If you’ve ever felt dismissed, confused by mixed health advice, or unsure where to begin, this conversation will give you a new way to think about healing, regulation, and personalized care. And yes, we talk about one small daily habit that may be quietly making things worse.About the GuestHeather Van Tassel is a gut health coach and nutritionist with a background in biochemistry, neuroscience, and data science. Her work focuses on the connection between the gut, brain, and nervous system, with an emphasis on education and practical support.Key Timestamps0:02 - I welcome Heather and we begin with her early curiosity about the brain and body3:00 - How a concussion changed her identity and deepened her connection to meditation9:41 - The moment she began seeing how much the microbiome shapes health14:14 - How she approaches chronic bloating, IBS, food sensitivities, and root-cause questions19:31 - When science, nutrition, and lived experience stopped feeling separate31:30 - What to remember if you feel stuck between Western care and other approaches43:08 - Why symptoms may be signals to listen to, not just problems to silence49:22 - Heather opens up about ADHD traits, self-awareness, and living without a formal diagnosis58:02 - What most people misunderstand about the gut-brain connection64:29 - A gentle place to begin if all the health advice feels like too much65:50 - How we make meditation feel more accessible for neurodivergent minds82:18 - What a world built with neurodivergent people in mind could look likeHeather's resources:https://datadrivennutritionist.com/If this conversation speaks to you, listen to the full episode and share it with someone who needs a gentler way into understanding mind-body health.#GutBrainConnection #NeurodivergentConnection #MentalHealthAwareness #ADHDSupport #NervousSystemHealthHosted by Reid Miles.Conversations unfold naturally — no scripts, no rush.🎧 Subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts🌐 More about the show and past episodes: https://podcast.ausha.co/neurodivergantconnection-thecuriousstroyteller📩 Guest inquiries & media: [email protected] on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Why a Real-Time Train Board Feels So Calming to WatchWhat starts as a story about a train board turns into something much bigger: pattern, comfort, design, and the quiet pull of watching a system move in real time.In this episode, I sit down with Griffin Van Horn, creator of Traintrakr.io, to talk about how a late-night makerspace idea became a product people connect with in ways no one fully expected. We get into the moment the project stopped feeling like an experiment, why simple design can say more than a screen full of data, and what happened when customers began sharing deeply personal reasons they loved it.I also explore something that really stayed with me: why movement, rhythm, and visible patterns can feel so grounding. If you’ve ever wondered why certain objects bring comfort, focus, or connection, this conversation will give you a lot to think about.About my guest: Griffin Van Horn is the creator of Train Tracker, a real-time transit display that turns live train data into a clean, visual experience. His work brings together engineering, design, and a strong respect for community-built ideas.You’ll hear how Train Tracker grew from a handmade prototype into something people use for far more than commute info—and why that matters.Key Timestamps0:03 - I welcome Griffin Van Horn and introduce Train Tracker0:21 - How the idea began in the Cambridge Hackspace9:01 - The surprise behind what they were really building17:57 - The moment the project started feeling real20:36 - What the first version looked like behind the scenes26:02 - What early users taught them about simplicity32:21 - Why people connect with the feeling, not just the data40:12 - The unexpected stories that made the work feel bigger44:11 - Why trains and patterns can feel oddly calming55:05 - Where to learn more about TraintrakrYou can find out more at: Traintrackr.ioIf this episode speaks to you, listen to the full conversation and share it with someone who loves design, transit, or the comfort of patterns in motion.#TrainTrackr #DesignStory #TransitDesign #Makerspace #CuriousStorytellerHosted by Reid Miles.Conversations unfold naturally — no scripts, no rush.🎧 Subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts🌐 More about the show and past episodes: https://podcast.ausha.co/neurodivergantconnection-thecuriousstroyteller📩 Guest inquiries & media: [email protected] on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

What a Late ADHD Diagnosis Can Explain, and What It Can ChangeIf you’ve ever thought, “Why does my brain work like this?” this conversation will likely hit close to home.In this episode, I sit down with Jax Crider to talk about what it’s like to live for years without the language for ADHD, and what can happen when that missing piece finally clicks into place. We get into the quiet guilt that can build before diagnosis, the relief that can follow, and why so many adults, especially women, are only now starting to connect the dots.Jax shares honest stories about being “too much,” forgetting everyday tasks, and dealing with the mental snowball that can turn one small moment into a flood of self-doubt. We also talk about something I think more people need to hear: ADHD isn’t only about struggle. There can be real strengths here too, if you know what to look for.About the GuestJax Crider is an entrepreneur, mortgage professional, financial educator, and host of Financial Mastery Simplified. She speaks openly about late-diagnosed ADHD, business, money, and building a life that fits how your brain actually works.If you’re questioning your own ADHD, supporting someone who is, or trying to make sense of a late diagnosis, I think this episode will leave you feeling more seen.Timestamps0:02 - I welcome Jax and we start with life before diagnosis4:39 - Jax explains the “snowball” of ADHD, anxiety, and depression9:56 - A personal story about success, failure, and black-and-white thinking25:30 - What Jax felt when she finally got her ADHD diagnosis33:41 - What ADHD as a “superpower” looks like in real life38:03 - Why AI can be useful for neurodivergent people44:58 - Late diagnosis, guilt, and the question of what might have been57:10 - What still isn’t being said enough about ADHD in adults81:15 - What Jax wants listeners to hear if they’re just starting to figure this outJax's Resources:jaxcridder.comFinancial Mastery Simplified by Jax Rider - PodcastListen in, and if this episode speaks to you, share it with someone who needs that reminder: you’re not broken, and you’re not alone.#ADHD #LateDiagnosis #Neurodivergent #MentalHealth #NeurodiversityHosted by Reid Miles.Conversations unfold naturally — no scripts, no rush.🎧 Subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts🌐 More about the show and past episodes: https://podcast.ausha.co/neurodivergantconnection-thecuriousstroyteller📩 Guest inquiries & media: [email protected] on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

What Happens When Neurodivergence, Fatherhood, and Advocacy CollideWhat does it cost to stop masking—and what can happen when you finally let people see the real you?In this episode, I sit down with Dan Roth for an honest conversation about neurodivergence, rejection, work, parenting, and the quiet weight so many of us carry. We talk about what the pandemic changed, why that inner voice can be so hard to settle, and how being openly ADHD shaped the way Dan rebuilt his life when everything felt uncertain.What stayed with me most is how this conversation moves beyond careers. We get into the tension around disclosure, workplace bias, and accommodations, but we also go deeper into what it means to raise autistic children in systems that still miss the mark. Dan shares what shifted for him as a father, advocate, and community builder—and why some of his biggest work started with one simple act of care.If you're neurodivergent, parenting a neurodivergent child, or trying to build a more inclusive school or workplace, this one will likely hit close to home. I think you'll walk away feeling seen, and you may also start asking different questions about what support should really look like.About the GuestDan Roth is a neurodivergent speaker, advocate, and community leader known for his work in hiring, inclusion, and special education support. He’s also a father of autistic daughters and a strong voice for more inclusive schools, workplaces, and communities.Key Timestamps0:02 - I welcome Dan Roth and we set the stage for a deeply personal conversation0:17 - What the pandemic felt like for neurodivergent people2:42 - Why rejection can feel so personal5:02 - Dan opens up about self-doubt and the nonstop inner voice9:26 - The moment social media became a turning point13:49 - What it felt like to share his first public post15:20 - Neurodivergence, job applications, and workplace accommodations21:16 - When advocacy became bigger than employment27:02 - The story behind an inclusive school project that still gives me chills31:02 - How parenting autistic daughters made the mission personal36:00 - What feels broken in hiring systems44:38 - Dan’s message for parents wondering if they’re enoughDans Resources:Dan RothEmail: [email protected]:Breaking the Silence: Voices of Survivors on AmazonIf this episode speaks to you, listen through to the end and share it with someone who needs this reminder: you’re not alone.#Neurodivergent #Autism #ADHD #ParentingSupport #WorkplaceInclusionDansHosted by Reid Miles.Conversations unfold naturally — no scripts, no rush.🎧 Subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts🌐 More about the show and past episodes: https://podcast.ausha.co/neurodivergantconnection-thecuriousstroyteller📩 Guest inquiries & media: [email protected] on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

What the Ocean Is Doing Right Now That Most of Us Never SeeWhen I sat down with Helen Czerski, I wanted to ask a simple question: what are we missing when we look at the ocean? What followed changed the way I think about waves, weather, and our place in the world.In this episode, I explore how the ocean shapes far more than coastlines. Helen helps me see why it affects climate, rain, and daily life, even if you never live near the sea. She also shares why calling the ocean a “mystery” may keep us from understanding just how connected we are to it.We also talk about science in a way that feels human. I ask Helen why stories matter so much in science communication, how curiosity starts in ordinary life, and why you do not need a lab coat to think like a scientist. There’s one everyday example she gives that makes this point beautifully.About the guest: Helen Czerski is a physicist, ocean scientist, author, and broadcaster. She studies the physical world and is known for making science clear, vivid, and worth caring about.If you’ve ever looked at the sea and felt something bigger than words, this conversation will give that feeling more shape.Key Timestamps0:02 - Why the ocean is a hidden force shaping our planet2:38 - What Helen sees beneath a breaking wave7:57 - The moment the ocean became real to her as a physical system12:13 - Why people underestimate the ocean’s influence14:30 - Why Helen pushes back on calling the ocean “mysterious”20:52 - Why science needs narrative, not just data29:39 - Why anyone can think like a scientist39:01 - The map that shows the world as one connected oceanListen in, then tell me: after this conversation, will you ever look at the ocean the same way again?#OceanScience #HelenCzerskii #ScienceCommunication #ClimateEducation #CuriousStorytellerHelen's Website: https://www.helenczerski.net/Hosted by Reid Miles.Conversations unfold naturally — no scripts, no rush.🎧 Subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts🌐 More about the show and past episodes: https://podcast.ausha.co/neurodivergantconnection-thecuriousstroyteller📩 Guest inquiries & media: [email protected] on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

What Happens After a Life-Changing Diagnosis? Annie Toro Lopez Shares What Helped Her Find Hope AgainWhat do you do when your body stops feeling safe, and the people around you can’t fully see what you’re carrying? In this conversation, I sit down with Annie Toro Lopez to talk about diagnosis, grief, trauma, food, and the long road back to trusting your body.Annie shares what it was like to be diagnosed with lupus in her early 20s, how years of pain and medical fear shaped her life, and what shifted when she decided her diagnosis would not define her future. We also talk about the emotional weight of loss, the shock of a later celiac diagnosis, and why mindset, nutrition, and self-compassion mattered so much in her healing story.If you or someone you love is facing a new diagnosis, chronic illness, or the quiet exhaustion that comes with being misunderstood, this episode will give you something many people need most: hope without pressure. You’ll hear how Annie rebuilt connection, found her voice, and created support instead of waiting for it to appear.About the GuestAnnie Toro Lopez is a writer, speaker, cookbook author, and community builder who shares from lived experience with lupus, celiac disease, trauma recovery, and healing.Key Timestamps0:03 - I welcome Annie Toro Lopez and begin with her lupus diagnosis story8:56 - The hardest parts of living with autoimmune illness in the early years17:48 - How therapy and mindset changed the way she saw her body and life26:05 - The meaning behind reaching a negative ANA after years of illness31:23 - Grief, celiac diagnosis, and what that season took out of her42:22 - Why Annie wrote Simply Gluten-Free and who it helps53:38 - Her message for anyone facing a hard diagnosis right now57:25 - Where to find Annie’s book, website, and latest workIf this conversation speaks to you, listen to the full episode and share it with someone who needs a little more understanding and a little less fear.#NeurodivergentConnection #ChronicIllness #LupusAwareness #CeliacDisease #HealingJourneyHosted by Reid Miles.Conversations unfold naturally — no scripts, no rush.🎧 Subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts🌐 More about the show and past episodes: https://podcast.ausha.co/neurodivergantconnection-thecuriousstroyteller📩 Guest inquiries & media: [email protected] on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

When Your Mind Works Differently: Trauma, Leadership, and Finding What FitsIf you’ve ever felt like your brain doesn’t follow the same map as everyone else’s, this conversation will likely hit close to home.In this episode, I sit down with Blaz Merlot to talk about what it means to move through the world feeling different, and how that can shape the way we lead, work, and understand ourselves. We get into the tension between structure and individuality, why some environments feel calming while others leave us drained, and how trauma can affect the way we think, react, and function day to day.What stood out to me most is how Blaz connects his path from a difficult childhood to West Point, then into business leadership and coaching. We also explore a question many people quietly carry: Is this just how my mind works, or is it connected to what I’ve lived through? That part of the conversation opens up a much bigger one about identity, resilience, burnout, and how to build a life that actually fits your brain.About the GuestBlaz Merlot is a former military officer and West Point graduate who now helps service-based founders build stronger systems, reduce overwhelm, and lead without chaos or burnout.Key Timestamps0:00 - I welcome Blaz and start with his early story3:33 - Why military structure felt meaningful to him5:38 - How West Point changed the way he thought10:48 - What the military taught him about leadership and trust16:31 - How he defines neurodivergence for himself19:39 - The strengths and challenges of a different-thinking brain24:37 - Trauma, brain development, and the questions he still carries36:04 - Why founders get stuck in chaos and burnout43:01 - What healthy leadership looks like now48:30 - What he wants neurodivergent listeners to rememberIf this episode speaks to your experience, listen all the way through and share it with someone who needs a reminder that they’re not broken—they may just work differently. #Neurodivergent #TraumaAndHealing #Leadership #MentalHealth #AutismAndADHDHosted by Reid Miles.Conversations unfold naturally — no scripts, no rush.🎧 Subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts🌐 More about the show and past episodes: https://podcast.ausha.co/neurodivergantconnection-thecuriousstroyteller📩 Guest inquiries & media: [email protected] on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Finding Your Voice When the Path Doesn’t Make Sense YetWhat happens when your voice belongs to more than one world? In this conversation, I sit down with Sonia Sohn to talk about art, identity, and the strange in-between space where so many creative lives are built.Sonya is known for her viral performances with Julian the piano player, including the flash mobs that have caught millions of eyes across Europe. But in this episode, I go past the polished videos and into the real story behind the voice.We talk about what it means to feel called to something before you can explain it, why training can help and still get in your way, and how self-doubt can show up even when the talent is obvious. Sonia also shares what it was like growing up between musical worlds, studying opera in Germany, building a pop sound of her own, and learning to live with uncertainty instead of waiting for a perfect plan.If you’ve ever wondered whether you’re allowed to be more than one thing, or how people keep creating when they still don’t have it all figured out, this episode will stay with you.About the GuestSonya aka Sone Sings is a singer and performer with roots in opera, pop, and live viral performance. She has appeared in widely shared musical collaborations across Europe and continues to create music that blends technical skill with personal expression.Key Timestamps0:02 - I welcome Sonia Sohn and introduce her viral music background0:35 - Sonia shares her early life, family influence, and first major performances6:21 - We talk about the emotional feeling of singing opera for the first time7:43 - Sonia explains the hard part of finding her own sound after formal training17:11 - We explore the tension between her trained voice and personal voice24:01 - Sonia reveals what people don’t see behind songwriting and recording32:37 - She reflects on health, growth, and what her younger self would think now41:07 - We revisit the flash mob videos and the moment everything changedIf this conversation speaks to you, listen to the full episode and tell me what part stayed with you most. Subscribe for more conversations on creativity, voice, storytelling, and the messy middle of becoming who you are.#SoneSings #TheCuriousStoryteller #MusicInterview #CreativeProcess #FindingYourVoiceHosted by Reid Miles.Conversations unfold naturally — no scripts, no rush.🎧 Subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts🌐 More about the show and past episodes: https://podcast.ausha.co/neurodivergantconnection-thecuriousstroyteller📩 Guest inquiries & media: [email protected] on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.