Thoughty Auti - The Autism Podcast

Dr. Miyabe Shields ( @miyabephd ) has a PhD in endocannabinoid pharmsci and is co-creator of 'Network of Applied Pharmacognosy' with Dr. Riley Kirk, a non-profit contributing to education and destigmatising of emerging medicinal natural products. Miyabe is also a thriving queer and neurodivergent Instagram personality with over 40K followers, which is often used to promote 'Project Chronic' from 'Dose Like A Scientist', a community-based educational platform for neurodivergents providing a network, teaching them about pharmacology and advocacy.

My Links - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://linktr.ee/thomashenleyUK⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ // Miyabe's Links - https://projectchronic.com/links/ Dbud Noise Cancelling Adjustable Ear Buds (20% OFF with code: THOUGHTYAUTI) - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://dbud.io/thoughtyautipodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Introducing Season 3 of the Thoughty Auti Podcast, Thomas explains the new upload schedule of the podcast before pivoting to the episode topic... Marijuana and Autism. Miyabe gives a brief background to why she chose to pursue Pharamacological research into endocannabinoids before highlighting the differences in the legality and prescription of consumable hemp, recreational, and medical marijuana between the USA and the UK. Two big distinctions were product diversity and black market prevalence in obtaining marijuana. Thomas highlights his introduction to recreational drug users at university, sparking an interest in the physiological and experiential elements of alternative medicine and drug use. He had a very bad association with drug use, personality, work ethic, and intelligence, common to many proclaimed 'tea-total' individuals. Miyabe describes the Stoner Archetype and how it influences public perspectives on marijuana use as opposed to the use of legal highs like alcohol and tobacco. Miyabe explains the Triad Of Suffering, three issues common to neurodivergent individuals, but also something treatable with medical marijuana. Listing off the immediate and long-term potentials of THC and CBD through a medical lens, it's clear this medicine has a lot of therapeutic potential for neurotypical and neurodivergent individuals. A clear advantage to recreational use through the heightening of social rewards and reduced discomfort with eye contact through an oxytocin mediator seemed to explain the positive regard towards marijuana testified by neurodivergents in a social setting. Marijuana is not without potential risks, being linked to triggering schizophrenia, an array of mental illnesses, and neuronal changes in users under the age of 25; although correlation does not always equal causation, it's a clear concern for medical professionals and the public. Touching on the history of hemp and marijuana use, Miyabe details the many reasons why she is fighting for more widespread legalisation of both medicinal and recreational marijuana use. Ignoring its potential benefits, it proves to be a relatively lower toxicity and crime-facilitating option than the socially accepted recreational use of ethanol and nicotine. Whether you agree with legalisation of such a plant, you'll surely take away a lot of new perspectives and information about marijuana use for neurotypical and neurodivergent individuals. Song Of The Day (Listen Here) - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://open.spotify.com/playlist/5UDIyN5TSYN4zMcRoQPrG8?si=9255ed3480d840b5⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Interview me, 1:1 Talk With Thomas, public speaking for events & workplace training - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://linktr.ee/thomashenleyUK⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

My Links - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://linktr.ee/thomashenleyUK⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ // Paul's Blog - https://theisaacs22.wordpress.com/

Dbud Noise Cancelling Adjustable Ear Buds (20% OFF with code: THOUGHTYAUTI) - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://dbud.io/thoughtyautipodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Kicking off the episode, Paul explains his history with Autism and OCD. Diagnosed at the late age of 24 he was gifted with a very positive experience, something not common to many.

Paul found a role model in a woman named Donna Williams, who shared many of his experiences in life, recounting her inspiring yet tragic life in great detail.

Starting work at 15 due to his parents increasing concern about Paul's isolation in his room, he had a very ego-centric approach to communication with many processing delays. The two bond over their shared confusion and difficulty identifying bullying, gossiping, and gaslighting within the school system and workplace.

Non-verbal until age 7, Paul describes the numerous visual and speech disorders he was afflicted with due to brain damage inflicted during a placental abruption and consequent cerebral hypoxia. Doctors originally believed he was blind, but eventually identified a few causes of his social, kinaesthetic, and sensory-sampling behaviours.

Paul is hemiplegic, which impacts his visual perception, language, proprioceptive awareness, and some of his motor functionality. His visual agnosia left him unable to register anything he wasn't directly focused on, like extreme tunnel vision... meaning his ability to create word associations to objects in childhood was difficult.

In terms of speech, Paul was 80% meaning deaf. The experience was described as perceiving large amounts of fragmented information, and couldn't interpret language as anything but meaningless phonics. His anomic aphasia made it difficult to find words to say, which resulted in him becoming highly echolalic.

Paul and Thomas describe their shared difficulty with Alexithymia in childhood and how their feelings manifested as physical illness. Paul describes the idea of mergence, something common in infants who are in a state of sensing, rather than interpretation... this mergence was remarked by Thomas as being eerily similar to goals of meditation and the experience of ego-death many chase.

Paul and Thomas do differ in some respects. Thomas describes his default mode network or baseline activity of his brain as being constant and often stressful; Paul doesn't tend to think at all unless baited by OCD or PTSD symptoms.

Briefly speaking on his dark past with auditory psychosis and mental illness symptoms, the two have a constructive conversation about internal vs external validation and why autistic people may be viewed as selfish.

The importance of forgiveness in its many forms seems to be a common thread between recent podcasts. The two highlight a worrying trend of identifying as a victim of the world and how this can lead to an intense hatred towards neurotypical individuals.

Paul ends the episode by giving some valuable and practical information on how to better understand and communicate with those with visual/speech disorders.

Song Of The Day (Listen Here) - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://open.spotify.com/playlist/5UDIyN5TSYN4zMcRoQPrG8?si=9255ed3480d840b5⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Interview me, 1:1 Talk With Thomas, public speaking for events & workplace training - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://linktr.ee/thomashenleyUK⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

My Links - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://linktr.ee/thomashenleyUK⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ // Brandon's Insta - https://www.instagram.com/autistically_b/

Dbud Noise Cancelling Adjustable Ear Buds (20% OFF with code: THOUGHTYAUTI) - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://dbud.io/thoughtyautipodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

The conversation commences on the topic of neurodiversity, looking at the differences between inherent and acquired neurodiversity, as well as the fine lines between viewing some neurodivergencies as good, neutral, or inherently bad.

On the topic of masking in adolescence, Thomas tended to be quiet and blended in as much as he could... whilst Brandon became hyper-verbal and highly social.

Thomas dives deeper into Brandon's difficult childhood, highlighting the behavioral training he received due to stimming, meltdowns, and attention problems. Brandon reflects on life before the People's First movement and how his early adulthood influenced his life outcome.

Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) is best characterised as a sensitivity to expectations, not defiance, and is fairly common in autistic people. The two talk about their experiences with PDA and aggression at school, at work, and within sports. Highlighting the silly online culture around things such as the Alpha Male, Thomas postulates that the idea of the Sigma Male likely comes from the existence of confident autistic men with PDA.

It can be hard being autistic in a neurotypical world; Thomas and Brandon connect on the negative experiences that shaped their prior negative mindset towards neurotypicals... and how they shifted their perspective to forgiveness in later adulthood.

Sport and exercise is a big part of both Brandon and Thomas' life... it's regulating, a great social lubricant, helps develop grit, and can temper you against sensory overload in the long term. Autistic people can struggle with instinctual movements and hypermobility, but have a lot of strengths in sports too!

Brandon directs a question to the host about the struggles he faces most often as an autistic person. Thomas highlights it was once alexithymia and other people which were the biggest factors, with executive functioning and transition difficulties being a close second. Being autistic often comes with unfavorable life experiences and co-occurring conditions, and for Thomas mental illness is the biggest difficulty in life.

Song Of The Day (Listen Here) - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://open.spotify.com/playlist/5UDIyN5TSYN4zMcRoQPrG8?si=9255ed3480d840b5⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Interview me, 1:1 Talk With Thomas, public speaking for events & workplace training - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://linktr.ee/thomashenleyUK⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

My Links - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://linktr.ee/thomashenleyUK⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ // Patrick's Links - https://beacons.ai/allthingsprivatepractice

Dbud Noise Cancelling Adjustable Ear Buds (20% OFF with code: THOUGHTYAUTI) - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://dbud.io/thoughtyautipodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Thomas start's the conversation fanboying about the recent Divergent Conversations podcast episode they recorded with Dr. Megan Neff from @neurodivergent_insights where they talked about Thomas' favourite topic... Autistic alexithymia!

Patrick soon goes into the basics behind understanding addiction through a bio-psycho-social lens, highlighting that addiction is caused by a loop of obsessions and compulsions. He provides some clarity by distinguishing between the mechanisms behind process addiction VS substance addiction, and addiction VS dependency.

Thomas speaks on his experience with nicotine addiction and alcoholism which took place during his university years, as well as his rabbit hole of research into the recreational substances that were taken by those around his dormitory. Nicotine and caffeine are perhaps some of the most readily available and addictive substances, being particularly enjoyable at first before becoming an expensive and boring habit.

Many people who become addicted often have a naive illusion of control, hiding their dependency from others due to feelings of shame and making deals with themselves that will soon be broken during the height of addiction. Thomas highlights that motivation is often idolised, but tends to be inherently fleeting in nature... humans are, after all, creatures of habit!

Patrick opens up to Thomas about the destructive nature of his gambling addiction, illuminating that the process or lead-up before placing the bet was the most addictive part for him. The level of shame and depression he felt leaving the casino early in the morning is a common feeling for most addicts and leads to a high rate of suicidality.

Lies, financial destruction, personality changes, impulsive action, desperation, and extreme lows... are all the parts of addiction that ravage the lives of addicts and those around them.

Thomas and Patrick contemplate and discuss the reasons why Autistic people may be more prone to addiction in any form. Some use it as a form of reliable regulation, some seek those good feelings to replace their need for connection, and others lack self-care due to the overlap between Autism and mental illness.

When it comes to quitting addictive processes or substances, our natural need for regulation in this difficult world, lack of social connections, and the ritualistic routine-like aspect of addiction can be very difficult hurdles to overcome.

In a more positive or constructive end to the episode, they speak on the difference between impulsive behaviors and delayed gratification, and how our modern times can reinforce impulsive acts. Life is not a movie, it can be boring, meh, or sometimes quite monotonous and depressing.

Finding an internal meaning to life and seeking help is a long and complex journey, but it's so worth it.

Song Of The Day (Listen Here) - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://open.spotify.com/playlist/5UDIyN5TSYN4zMcRoQPrG8?si=9255ed3480d840b5⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Interview me, 1:1 Talk With Thomas, public speaking for events & workplace training - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://linktr.ee/thomashenleyUK⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

My Links - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://linktr.ee/thomashenleyUK⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ // Emily's Links - https://linktr.ee/emilyrobynclark

Dbud Noise Cancelling Adjustable Ear Buds (20% OFF with code: THOUGHTYAUTI) - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://dbud.io/thoughtyautipodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

They start off speaking on the stereotype of autistic people being good at maths and computers, before diving into the controversial practice of type-casting Autistic people and women within the film industry.

Meditation isn't only a spiritual practice, but something backed up by science as being beneficial for mental health and wellness. Emily speaks on her own practices of Gongyo and how her meditative Buddist rituals helped improve her life.

Brought up in Tennessee (USA), in a highly conservative, Christian fundamentalist culture, full of homeschooling, homophobia, and church gatherings... Emily explains her negative experiences within the Religious groups she grew up in and when she first identified she was bisexual.

Thomas speaks on his very secular yet existentialist view on life, going into his history with Christianity and his attraction to Buddist tenants and Philosophies.

Since his youth, Thomas has always questioned the meaning of life and the experiences we have as humans... going through multiple existential crises before exploring Philosophy. Diving into his own perceptions and beliefs he entered a rabbit hole of Nihilistic despair, before realising the power and freedom it gave him for creating his own values and meaning through Positive Nihilism.

Emily and Thomas both arrived at similar conclusions about life and people, just from different angles. For Thomas it was purely theoretical and secular, for Emily it was spirituality and Buddhism.

Unconditional love for your 'enemies', healing familial relationships, Carl Jung archetypes, and the identity within passions were all explored in-depth.

Emily explains the ideas and utility behind Astrology and Tarot Cards for her own life, whilst the unconvinced host postures with position through the lens of science.

Ending on an interesting note, they look into the reasons why Autistic people may gravitate towards spirituality, Religion, and Philosophy... looking at pattern recognition or lateral thinking, influential philosophers, the need for certainty, rituals, and developing your own brand of approaching life.

Song Of The Day (Listen Here) - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://open.spotify.com/playlist/5UDIyN5TSYN4zMcRoQPrG8?si=9255ed3480d840b5⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Interview me, 1:1 Talk With Thomas, public speaking for events & workplace training - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://linktr.ee/thomashenleyUK⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

My Links - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://linktr.ee/thomashenleyUK⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ // Mona's Links - https://linktr.ee/NeurodiverseLove

Dbud Noise Cancelling Adjustable Ear Buds (20% OFF with code: THOUGHTYAUTI) - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://dbud.io/thoughtyautipodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Mona kicks things off by speaking on the story of her marriage and eventual divorce from her Autistic spouse. She describes the ways she was unknowingly overwhelming her husband with her communication, flooding him to the point of shutdown.

Thomas and Mona discuss the common miscommunications that can happen between allistic and autistic individuals in relationships:

Not being concise or specific, overloading with emotion, lack of preparation, ignoring the need for social transitions, being aware of social batteries, pathological demand avoidance (PDA), ignoring sensory sensitivities, understanding of processing time, flat affect, and lack of direct emotional explanation.

They speak on the controversy of Cassandra Syndrome, and how this should be viewed as an issue of Double Empathy... before going on to highlight the general positives and negatives of Autistic relationships.

Dating a different neurotype will always come with more issues with communication if not properly addressed. Not understanding platonic vs romantic intent, issues around identifying flirting, different ideas about the boundaries of relationships, or even the relationship goals/milestones.

Mona speaks on the unique issues that can come with moving in together and not addressing each other's needs, the challenges of raising children, and the hidden issues that surface once children move out of the home. Thomas chips in with his experience of moving in with a partner and his desire for a partnership in the future.

Rounding up the episode, they converse about the qualities in yourself, your partner, and the relationship that lead to the best outcome:

Being self-aware of your non-negotiables, core values, and boundaries, having a growth mindset, patience, open-mindedness, low emotional reactivity, independent mindsets, curiosity, direct communication, and solid conflict resolution.

Song Of The Day (Listen Here) - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://open.spotify.com/playlist/5UDIyN5TSYN4zMcRoQPrG8?si=9255ed3480d840b5⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Interview me, 1:1 Talk With Thomas, public speaking for events & workplace training - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://linktr.ee/thomashenleyUK⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

My Links - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://linktr.ee/thomashenleyUK⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Dbud Noise Cancelling Adjustable Ear Buds (20% Off with code: THOUGHTYAUTI) - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://dbud.io/thoughtyautipodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

They kick things off by speaking about Pedro’s recent 40th birthday, and the two bond over their unique difficulties with their birthdays.

Diagnosed dyslexic, undiagnosed dyspraxic, and recently diagnosed autistic at the age of 37, Pedro takes us through his early life experiences and his love for retro video games.

Pedro is yet to learn to drive or move out of home, struggling immensely with finding a stable and fulfilling job to fuel his independence. He had a job for a number of years but eventually became too taxing due to the 3-hour roundtrip involved.

He’s never felt competent in life, being shuttled down the volunteer routes, and palmed off by places of employment that claim to be Disability Confident. Thomas talks about the lack of post-18 support available to Autistic adults, and what unique challenges social life as an adult brings. Andy’s Man Club was transformative for Thomas’ close friend.

In the conversation about dating, Thomas speaks on matching-making services, going to groups, and dating apps. Pedro found no luck with these methods and is still seeking a partner.

Bullying has always been commonplace in his life, whether it’s constant negativity from family, school bullies, workplace bullies, and online harassment. Consequently, he’s developed low self-esteem and an anxiety disorder which makes life difficult. They speak on Pedro’s experience of online harassment following the Intellivision Amigo controversies, where he’s been stalked, had his tweets posted to Discord servers, and had his face photoshopped as a clown.

Pedro describes himself as an ‘old man shouting at the clouds’ and opens up about his overall experience as an unsupported Autistic adult in our modern world.

Song Of The Day (Listen Here) - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://open.spotify.com/playlist/5UDIyN5TSYN4zMcRoQPrG8?si=9255ed3480d840b5⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Interview me, 1:1 Talk With Thomas, public speaking for events & workplace training - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://linktr.ee/thomashenleyUK⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

My Links - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://linktr.ee/thomashenleyUK⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠// Joely’s Website - www.myautisticwings.co.uk

Dbud Noise Cancelling Adjustable Ear Buds (20% Off with code: THOUGHTYAUTI) - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://dbud.io/thoughtyautipodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Breaking the ice, Thomas and Joely talk about their experiences with music therapy, nightlife, and music festivals as Autistic people. Joely describes herself as a strange mix of sensory seeking and sensory avoidant behaviours, feeling comfortable moshing it up with the best of them, but often feeling sensitive in other situations.

Joely explains the concepts of intentional and unintentional gaslighting, at worst being a manipulative tactic or at the least an unhelpful reality-denying series of comments. Joely highlights that unintentional gaslighting often has good intentions, but can often be ableist in nature when thinking about Autistic people in teaching or parenting contexts; denying the utility of stimming or highlighting sensory issues as 'not too bad' being too prime examples of unintentional gaslighting.

Infantilisation and stereotyping seem to be two common ways people gaslight autistic people. Those infantilising autistic people might paint them as children to deny their comments or opinions, or even enforce unwanted care on them. When stereotyping they may highlight things around empathy or social incompetence as a means for manipulation.

Speaking on the reasons why Autistic people may be more prone to gaslighting, direct communication preferences, Alexithymia, mental illness, and prior negative conditioning are all highlighted. Joely describes the Autistic mind as processing facts first, meaning that it may take some time to process the context or social indirect communication around a statement. Alexithymia may make it more difficult to set immediate boundaries and mental illnesses like anxiety, prior invalidation of our experiences in youth, and bullying would definitely contribute to our lack of belief in our own experiences,

Mate Crime is where someone takes advantage of a vulnerable person in order to extract monetary or intimate benefits from the individual or to humiliate and gain control over a person. Whilst being against the law, it's incredibly difficult to prove and takes advantage of a person's loneliness and isolation.

Going through the red flags of possible toxic relationships, conversations around 'putting the person on a pedestal', faking full understanding of Autism, doing helpful things to coerce you or gain control, and driving a wedge between you and your support network were most apparent to the two. The individual might be seen to be doing you favours, but under the surface, they are robbing you of your ability to support yourself with things you really don't need help with.

Some possible green flags of healthy relationships were highlighted: Lack of the rollercoaster of emotion or adrenaline response, clear boundaries that aren't crossed, curiosity about your experiences/autism, a feeling of boredom if you've had previous toxic relationships, conversations about meeting each other's needs, and non-reactivity to miscommunication.

Song Of The Day (Listen Here) - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://open.spotify.com/playlist/5UDIyN5TSYN4zMcRoQPrG8?si=9255ed3480d840b5⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Interview me, 1:1 Autism Coaching, public speaking for events & workplace training - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://linktr.ee/thomashenleyUK⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

My Links - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://linktr.ee/thomashenleyUK⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠// Mattia’s Links - https://linktr.ee/mattiam 

Dbud Noise Cancelling Adjustable Ear Buds (20% Off with code: THOUGHTYAUTI) - ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://dbud.io/thoughtyautipodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠

Kicking off the conversation they talk about the difficulties neurodivergent individuals can have with sleep, the issue with high-functioning Autism labels, generalisation when talking about neurodivergencies, and the difficulties of feeling represented with intersectional identities.

Mattia talks on the stigma of Autism when compared to ADHD, highlighting the more intense negative stereotypes around Autism. In their own diagnosis journey they were diagnosed ADHD first, but originally had a misdiagnosis of Bipolar Disorder due to their Cyclical Energy Cycle. Going for an Autism diagnosis, Mattia found out after their Autism diagnosis that some countries can deny immigration due to Autism and that it can impact the rights someone has over the custody of children.

Mattia describes their focus and attention patterns as having an Interest-Based nervous system, whereby they find difficult or interesting tasks much easier to hyper-focus on than easy or uninteresting tasks. They highlight the strange difference between their IQ test results with and without caffeine, which highlighted just how much attention impacted their productivity/skills. With a self-identified spiky profile himself, Thomas speaks on the large variance of skills shown by Autistic and neurodivergent individuals.

Speaking on the crossover between Autism and ADHD, they highlight the issues in transitions, inertia, and ignoring one's needs during hyper-focus. There appears to be an apparent push-pull dynamic to organising life as an AuDHDer, finding a lot of issues with decision fatigue and anxiety-enforced deadlines due to autism. Although routine is a big part of an autistic persons wellbeing, ADHDers also find them to be helpful although they can feel bored or restricted.

Opening up about the SA, Mattia goes into the issues of managing mental health and well-being even as a well read and knowledgeable AuDHDer. The two speak on the different ways of coping with mental illness as a neurodivergent, separating burnout from depression and speaking on the unhelpful information given within therapy.

They converse about the supplements and medications that have been helpful or unhelpful for mental health as Autistic people, underlining the issues inherent with SSRIs on anxiety and interoceptive difficulties with mirtazepine and amphetamines.

Thomas and Mattia end their conversation highlighting some of unique strengths and gifts that those with Autism and ADHD have: Creativity, divergent thinking, hyper-empathy and pattern recognition.

Song Of The Day (Listen Here) - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://open.spotify.com/playlist/5UDIyN5TSYN4zMcRoQPrG8?si=9255ed3480d840b5⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Interview me, 1:1 Autism Coaching, public speaking for events & workplace training - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://linktr.ee/thomashenleyUK⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

My Links - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://linktr.ee/thomashenleyUK⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ // Vera’s Insta - https://instagram.com/happyautisticlady?igshid=MmJiY2I4NDBkZg==

Dbud Noise Cancelling Adjustable Ear Buds (20% Off with code: THOUGHTYAUTI) - ⁠⁠⁠https://dbud.io/thoughtyautipodcast⁠⁠⁠

They start off by talking about the concept of accent switching or mirroring in social interactions, as well as sleep chronotypes and hustle culture, before chatting about the difficulties of managing a wide variety of business roles and introducing the topic… Autistic Burnout!

Vera goes through 6 main causes of burnout: Tiredness, Fairness, Control, Insufficient Reward, Lack Of Community, and Values. Thomas highlights some modern-day difficulties like atomisation, Vera mentions how lack of fairness is a difficulty for Autistic people in a neurotypical world.

Diving deeper into the specifics of Autistic burnout, how burnout impacts Autistic people differently, and the unique causes of Autistic burnout. In a larger conversation about Autistic masking, they highlight how masking can impact short-term energy/stress as well as long-term mental health. Sensory difficulties are a big issue for Autistic people in the workplace and out in the world due to our lack of habituation to sensory stimuli; Thomas highlights the importance of environmental adjustments and sensory supports in reducing overall stress.

Thomas adds that concepts like interoception and issues with sleep can also impact Autistic burnout; many individuals don't fulfill their hydration and food intake needs which are important to overall functioning and well-being, but struggling to wake/sleep due to melatonin differences can also impact energy levels and stress long term. It can be easy to think of psychology as a separate thing from our biology, but the brain is an organ, and exposure to cortisol and adrenaline has some real bodily effects. Cortisol impacts autistic people more strongly and takes longer to die down, and in our modern day, this can lead to chronic stress and impaired cognitive function.

Looking into Vera and Thomas' experiences with burnout, they talk about the concept of Spoon Theory and the importance of distinguishing capability from capacity... Vera uses the cupcake analogy to explain this.

Thomas and Vera list some common RED FLAGS for incoming Autistic burnout, some unhelpful coping strategies, and mentalities that stop you from managing burnout - Tics, social burnout, transition time differences, brute force problem solving, and leaning into anxiety are highlighted. They talk about how one can distinguish between mental health issues and Autistic burnout, before jumping into some useful analogies and strategies for preventing Autistic burnout in the future. The Three Legged Stool analogy was particularly impactful for Vera, which helped her understand the impact of task switching.

Stimming, safe foods, addressing internalised ableism, setting emotional boundaries, delegating or task prioritisation, and focusing on individual measures of success were all underscored as impact factors to consider when addressing Autistic burnout.

Song Of The Day (Listen Here) - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://open.spotify.com/playlist/5UDIyN5TSYN4zMcRoQPrG8?si=9255ed3480d840b5⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Interview me, 1:1 Autism Consultancy, public speaking for events & workplace training - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.thomashenley.co.uk⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

My Links - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://linktr.ee/thomashenleyUK⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Dbud Noise Cancelling Adjustable Ear Buds (20% Off with code: THOUGHTYAUTI) - ⁠⁠https://dbud.io/thoughtyautipodcast⁠⁠

They kick off the conversation by talking about Michelle’s diagnosis of Vocal Dysphoria, before taking us through the signs of Autism that Michelle spotted in Thomas throughout the years. She highlighted that she felt exceptional at parenting, as her first child Thomas hardly cried and was very easy to look after… but like many other parents, she started to question whether this was typical for infants. He never communicated his needs and seemed to be utterly fascinated by colourful lights.

After a tough time integrating Thomas socially within the community and in school, and multiple incidents with sensory distress, she decided to take Thomas for an Autism diagnosis at 10 years old. Thomas & Michelle reflect on the moment Thomas was told he was Autistic. Michelle framed the Autism diagnosis as a difference, with both positives and negatives. Thomas appeared notably relieved to her surprise, with the host chipping in on his own feelings of alienation even at that young age.

Thomas experienced extensive bullying, mental illness, isolation and other difficulties in school. In a touching conversation, Michelle gave her thoughts and feelings around these difficult times… despite the affirmations of it all being an adolescent stage from other parents, Thomas started to withdraw from his happy-go-lucky personality. He ceased communication with his family, engaging in harming behaviours and sinking deep into emotional turmoil. 

From his hardships to his success in multiple areas of life, Michelle describes Thomas’ life as a rollercoaster of incredible highs and catastrophic lows. They both bond over the joy they felt in his defining experiences and discuss the barriers to supporting Autistic people socially within education.

As a round-up to the eye-opening conversation, Michelle highlights some key difficulties with supporting Autistic children through life. They talk about the differences between behavioural-based parenting and a more holistic relational style of parenting Autistic children. She leaves us with some lessons on how parents should view Autism and their approach to helping Autistic children experience the world.

This has been an emotional and touching episode with both mother and son giving their perspectives on the Autistic experience of one man.

Song Of The Day (Listen Here) - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://open.spotify.com/playlist/5UDIyN5TSYN4zMcRoQPrG8?si=9255ed3480d840b5⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Interview me, 1:1 Autism Consultancy, public speaking for events & workplace training - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.thomashenley.co.uk⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Kieron Lee (@mr.kieronlee) is an Autistic music artist, Autism advocate under Anna Kennedy OBE, JAAQ content creator, and collaborator with Born Anxious. His first single NYN, touched on his experiences of relationships as an Autistic man, and is hopeful for the success of his upcoming album ACRONYMS. Kieron has had a lot of experience with mental health as an Autistic man and seeks to share the more stigmatised sides of men's mental health on the podcast.

My Links - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://linktr.ee/thomashenleyUK⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ // Kierons Website - https://www.mrkieronlee.org.uk/

Dbud Noise Cancelling Adjustable Ear Buds (20% Off with code: THOUGHTYAUTI) - ⁠https://dbud.io/thoughtyautipodcast⁠

Priory Group did a recent study on mental health in men, which highlighted some concerning statistics:

40% of the polled men have never spoken with anyone about their mental health

40% of the polled men said it would take thoughts of SUI or SH to get them to seek support

With the diagnosis rate of mental health conditions being 19.5%, it could be thought that men are more resilient to mental illness, but with 75% of registered SUI's in the UK in 2020 being from men... we may need to make a greater effort to support men and destigmatise mental illness.

Thomas Henley kicks off the episode by talking to Kieron Lee about his lifelong affinity to music and all the complex elements of sound that bring him joy. Diagnosed at a VERY young age, Kieron talks about the autism stigma carried by the older generations and how his framing of Autism turned from negative to positive in his adult life.

You would think that Universities would be proactively supporting disabled and Autistic students in our modern day, but both Thomas' and Kieron's experiences seek to challenge this assumption. Accommodations are to be identified and fought for by Autistic students, and in Kieron's case getting said support, it's not always followed up on or enforced by the University staff.

Kieron Lee touches on his experiences as an empath and how Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria has impacted his pursuits in the workplace and in love. They speak on the differences in processing trauma as autistic people, and how this process can often be prolonged and intense for us. Addiction and SH played a large role in Kieron's way of coping with mental illness as a young adult but has since made strides in finding positive outlets in the form of creativity.

Opening up about ED, Thomas shares his experience with body dysmorphia and low self-esteem, and how he sought to offset his social difficulties with superficial improvements. Both agree on the heavy stigmatisation, lack of support, or campaigns around both ED and mental illness in men, with Kieron underscoring that he doesn't believe the statistics around these conditions reflect the reality of their occurrence in our modern day. Diving deeper, they speak their mind about the lack of structural support for men in toxic relationships, and how this extends to social support from peers.

This has been an open discussion about the life of the music artist Mr. Kieron Lee, but also a statement on the lack of support, and awareness, as well as the stigma of mental illness and support for Autistic men.

Song Of The Day (Listen Here) - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://open.spotify.com/playlist/5UDIyN5TSYN4zMcRoQPrG8?si=9255ed3480d840b5⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Interview me, 1:1 Autism Consultancy, public speaking for events & workplace training - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.thomashenley.co.uk⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

My Links - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://linktr.ee/thomashenleyUK⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ // SUI Prevention Hotlines - https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/327007

Dbud Noise Cancelling Adjustable Ear Buds (20% Off with code: THOUGHTYAUTI) - https://dbud.io/thoughtyautipodcast

Thomas Henley (host) kicks off the episode with a heavy disclaimer and an overview of a Nottingham University Study (2017) showing that:

8 in 10 - Almost 8 in 10 autistic adults have a mental health condition

6 in 10 - More than 6 in 10 autistic people have considered SUI

3 in 10 - More than 3 in 10 autistic adults have attempted SUI

Thomas highlights that statistics like these are easily accessible, but the mainstream media are not disseminating this crucial information on the life quality of Autistic people. He theorises that this may be due to the assumption that Autism inherently carries a lower quality of life with it, which may be a barrier to understanding the disability as a consequence of uninclusive systems or negative life experiences.

In the conversation about higher rates of mental illness among Autistic individuals, Hina starts by underscoring the contribution of misdiagnosis, lack of diagnosis, and autistic masking as key contributors to mental illness. Thomas explains how the negative life experiences around such things as bullying and isolation can impact the development of depression through the HPA axis.

Thomas and Hina share their own personal experiences with mental health, isolation, ED, SH, and SUI in an effort to destigmatise speaking out about the tipping points of mental illness. Going from adolescence to adulthood, they spotlight their lowest points in their mental health journey, drawing attention to the impact of an insufficient mental health system on Autistic people's outcomes.

Speaking on the positive effects of support, they highlight the problems and benefits of anti-depressant medication on their mental health, the importance of family and friends in building a strong support network, and how autism education helped them conceptualise and deal with their mental illness much more effectively.

Lastly, they touch on the stigma around SUI being selfish, mental illness being a personality trait, and the stigma of mental illness in men. Thomas speaks on the 'Andrew Tate mentality' that a lot of men have around mental health, and how strength is shown more through acknowledging your feelings rather than hiding them and pretending they don't exist.

Song Of The Day (Listen Here) - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://open.spotify.com/playlist/5UDIyN5TSYN4zMcRoQPrG8?si=9255ed3480d840b5⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Interview me, 1:1 Autism Consultancy, public speaking for events & workplace training - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.thomashenley.co.uk⁠⁠⁠⁠

Rachel's Insta - ⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/rachelbarcellonaxo/⁠ // My Links - ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://linktr.ee/thomashenleyUK⁠⁠⁠⁠

Dbud Noise Cancelling Adjustable Ear Buds (15% Off) - ⁠⁠⁠https://dbud.io/thomashenley⁠⁠⁠

Thomas Henley (host) and Rachel Barcellona (guest) start by conversing about the prevalence of Spelling Bees in the USA compared to the UK, but they soon dive into Rachel's backstory with Autism. Professionals diagnosed Rachel Barcellona with Autism at the young age of 3, where she experienced a speech delay until 5; her parents were told that she would never go to college or achieve anything notable in life.

They discuss the issue of manipulation and abuse particularly for autistic women. At her middle school age, Rachel Barcellona spent her time at a Christian school which allegedly manipulated her family into thinking it was the most inclusive place she could be. Unbeknownst to them, the school had an ulterior motive to 'cure' or 'remove' Autism in their students. Rachel was sadly a victim to the principal at the school, where they inappropriately touched her and proceeded to label her as the Devil's Child or Satan's Daughter.

Rachel Barcellona spent many of her school days isolated and bullied due to her differences but decided to post positive notes on her bully's lockers to have a positive impact... which eventually turned into the work she carries out in the modern day. Doesn't sound like the work of the devil to me! Rachel highlights her core value of putting herself and her family first, and how her large extended family supported her throughout the difficult times of her life.

Pivoting to Rachel's pageant, theatre, and singing success, they talk about her work with the neurodiverse theatre company Epic Players and how her failures in middle school had a positive impact on her ability to handle rejection... something commonplace for a budding Broadway prodigy! With her fingers in many pies, she explains her journey through performing arts, from cheerleading to singing, to theatrical performances. Pointing to her autistic gift of perfect pitch, Rachel talks about her love of Opera and how that inspired her to sing the USA National Anthem in Madison Square Gardens.

Thomas enquires about her pageant work, what it entails, and how Rachel became Miss Florida; they go on to have a greater conversation about Rachel's skill with interviews and public speaking, and how Thomas found writing a much more easy method of communication than speaking in his youth. Ending on the impact Rachel wants to have with her work, she highlights a need for tolerance, and small yet impactful adjustments, underlining the importance of action over being performative when addressing diversity and inclusion in society.

Song Of The Day (Listen Here) - ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://open.spotify.com/playlist/5UDIyN5TSYN4zMcRoQPrG8?si=9255ed3480d840b5⁠⁠⁠⁠

Interview me, 1:1 Autism Consultancy, public speaking for events & workplace training - ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.thomashenley.co.uk⁠⁠⁠

Brooke's Links - ⁠⁠⁠https://linktr.ee/coachingwithbrooke⁠ // My Links - ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://linktr.ee/thomashenleyUK⁠⁠⁠⁠

Dbud Noise Cancelling Adjustable Ear Buds (15% Off) - ⁠⁠⁠https://dbud.io/thomashenley⁠⁠⁠

Thomas Henley kicks off the episode by talking to Brooke about language differences between the USA and the UK, the different spheres of the Autism world, her background in managing the top-rated special education public school in the entire USA, and her experience creating the SuccessFULL With ADHD podcast.

One of the most difficult things with neurodivergencies like Autism and ADHD, is separating them from each other for the purposes of identity, support, teaching methods, and possibly the use of medication. In line with the topic, Brooke and Thomas highlight some common similarities between Autism and ADHD from a diagnostic standpoint: Intense fixations and interests, emotional dysregulation, executive functioning issues, stimming behaviours, sensory differences, problems with socialising, burnout, processing differences and a need for routine.

They speak on the interesting dynamics that occur between Autistic and ADHDers in social relationships and communication, whereby Autistic people are usually led into interesting off-shooting topics by the ADHDer, but the ADHDer finds a lot of use in the directness and blunt communication from the Autistic person in focussing on the topic of conversation or achieving mutual clarity.

Teasing apart differences between Autism and ADHD proved to be very difficult due to the large variance in traits of individuals within each group... but talk around hyper vs hypo awareness of indirect communication, Alexithymia, hyperactivity, impulsivity, transition or focus behaviours, verbal vs internal processing and flat affect came up as some solid ways to differentiate between the two.

Due to the present-day stigmas and stereotypes of Autism compared to ADHD, most find themselves diagnosed with ADHD before Autism. For the purposes of practical application, the two propose different traits that an Autistic or ADHDer can look for to know if they should pursue the other diagnosis:

Autistic people looking into ADHD could look for signs of daydreaming, racing thoughts, switching from task to task quickly, getting sidetracked easily and consistently, oversharing, or restless energy.

ADHDers looking into Autism could look for more issues with Autistic inertia, big issues with transitioning, issues with alexithymia, starting conversations, noticing indirect emotional cues, shutdowns/meltdowns, faux regulation and flat affect.

They end on speaking about the USA to the UK, and Autism to ADHD language differences. Thomas speaks on the Autistic community's aversion to the term Aspergers Syndrome, person-first vs identity-first language, functioning labels, and lastly his thoughts on shows like Love On The Spectrum and The Undateables.

Song Of The Day (Listen Here) - ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://open.spotify.com/playlist/5UDIyN5TSYN4zMcRoQPrG8?si=9255ed3480d840b5⁠⁠⁠⁠

Interview me, 1:1 Autism Consultancy, public speaking for events & workplace training - ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.thomashenley.co.uk⁠⁠⁠

Natashia's Insta - ⁠https://www.instagram.com/iwanttotellyoubooks/⁠ // My Links - ⁠⁠https://linktr.ee/thomashenleyUK⁠⁠

Dbud Noise Cancelling Adjustable Ear Buds - ⁠https://dbud.io/thomashenley⁠

Thomas kicks off the episode by thanking his listeners for making the podcast the World's #1 Autism podcast, and a show in the top 2% of all podcasts!

Natashia and Thomas soon get into the differences between her style of content vs some of the overly-personal content from other Autism parents, highlighting the importance of humility and an open mind when entering into the Autistic adult communities online. Natashia sadly conformed to the 'expert advice' from professionals and OTs, seeing negative consequences in her own son... and seeking to shift the perspectives of other Autism parents going through the same experiences.

They start off by addressing the importance of sensory supports and environmental adjustments in home, work, and school environments; the conversation seemed to highlight the importance of sensory adjustments on well-being and productivity for Autistic adults and children. Experts and teachers seem to be highly adverse to accepting sensory accommodations, often touting 'no adjustments in the real world' as a reason not to accommodate... which we all know is entirely possible in adult life.

Everyone has sensory needs, neurotypical or Autistic, and although sensory differences are highly linked to Autism, Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD) can occur in allistic (non-autistic) individuals. The two list a variety of environmental adjustments anyone can use in the home to make their space less overloading, but also highlight a plethora of sensory support items that both Autistic adults and children can use to mitigate uncontrollable sensory inputs in public:

Therapressure brushes, galaxy projectors, fibre optic lights, water features, chewable jewelry, shades, blue light glasses, earbuds/defenders, acupressure rings, compression clothing, joggers/trainers, soft hoodies/hats, weighted blankets, vibrating massagers, soft blankets, fidget spinners, fidget cubes, fans, white noise machines, wobble cushions, lotions, disco lights, colour changing bulbs, and sensory swings... to name a few!

Thomas talks about his experiences with sensory joy with theme park rides, stimming equipment, and spinning... pointing out the euphoria and relaxation this offers him as an Autistic adult. No episode would conclude without highlighting some adjustments that public spaces and workplaces can make spaces more inclusive to those with sensory differences - Thomas encourages the listeners to look at the NDTi 'It's Not Rocket Science' report, a document created by a team of Autistic adults on effective and low-cost adjustments organisations can make to their workplaces: ⁠https://www.ndti.org.uk/resources/publication/its-not-rocket-science⁠

Song Of The Day (Listen Here) - ⁠⁠https://open.spotify.com/playlist/5UDIyN5TSYN4zMcRoQPrG8?si=9255ed3480d840b5⁠⁠

Interview me, 1:1 Autism Consultancy, public speaking for events & workplace training - ⁠⁠https://www.thomashenley.co.uk⁠

N0trixx Links - https://linktr.ee/n0trixx  // My Links - ⁠https://linktr.ee/thomashenleyUK⁠

Thomas starts off the episode by sharing his experience of once believing he had multiple identities, something he later understood as a product of Autistic Alexithymia. N0trixx gives us a brief overview of how Dissociative Identity Disorder can occur, before diving into the more relatable aspect of DID… dissociation. Thomas explains the two types of dissociation which are depersonalisation and derealisation, something very common to the autistic experience of shutdowns and even during moments of alcohol intoxication.

N0trixx takes us through her DID journey, starting at the earliest traumatic event in her teenage hood, and how her emotionally repressed home environment forced her to bury her negative emotions away. Shifts between DID alters were initially a well-oiled machine, but after years of repression of her ‘dark’ alter another traumatic event triggered a full switch. N0trixx was the identity that took control for the first time in a long time.

Originally a pragmatic and conscientious Wall Street investment banker with a well-established social network and family… N0trixx soon found herself deep within another woman’s life. Finding passion and drive in creative writing and music, something contrary to her other alters personality and skills. Leaving her successful job due to lacking the skills/knowledge required, she pursued her creative endeavors and started the N0trixx project to raise awareness of DID.

Throughout numerous attempts by family and friends to remedy her situation and dismiss her diagnosis… specialists and Doctors only confirmed her diagnosis of DID. The two end on speaking about the stigma around DID as a diagnosis, mainstream representation in films like ‘Split’, cases of using DID to avoid criminal charges, and alleged online ‘fakers’.

If you believe people are faking DID online, it’s either likely that they are doing so for their own recovery journey, want to raise awareness, or have a complex diagnosis of Munchausen’s Syndrome. It’s best not to air opinions on the legitimacy of their diagnosis unless you are a licensed professional with an awareness of their psychological records. You could be contributing towards a stigma that already impacts those with DID on daily basis, or be harassing someone with a variety of other complex issues and mental illness.

Whether you believe in DID or not, the two share some eye-opening facts and comparisons that may shift you to the former.

Song Of The Day (Listen Here) - ⁠https://open.spotify.com/playlist/5UDIyN5TSYN4zMcRoQPrG8?si=9255ed3480d840b5⁠

Interview me, 1:1 Autism coaching, public speaking for events, workplace training  - ⁠https://www.thomashenley.co.uk

Nathan’s Website - ⁠https://www.thephysiobox.net/ // My Links - ⁠https://linktr.ee/thomashenleyUK⁠

This podcast episode is filled with useful lessons for Autistic adults who are struggling to move forward with their lives and manage the expectations of the neurotypical world held against them.

Nathan Hall describes his journey to an Autism and ADHD diagnosis in his early 30s, and the two bond over their mutual experiences with the world of martial arts. Nathan started his athletic journey at the young age of 5, quickly finding a special interest in the sport and an attraction to the merit-based social landscape of Taekwondo training and competition. He was a part of the 2nd cohort of professional Taekwondo fighters in the United Kingdom and received numerous decorated medals throughout his life.

The two contemplate the difficulty of understanding your traits as an individual with a dual diagnosis (AuDHD), and how these labels can be used as support from the medical system, but also a source of identity and validation for many people. Thomas raises how the social systems and norms in place can make it difficult to advocate for your needs and succeed in life as an autistic person.

Nathan is a big advocate for self-employment, touting the autistic experience of hyper-focussing on subjects of interest as a useful way to specialise within the working world. The conversation around the importance of knowing yourself and having a clear goal in life provided insight into how a growth mindset allows you to craft a life and an outward persona you feel best represents who you are.

They talk about managing relationships with neurotypical individuals, highlight the common phase of ‘hating neurotypicals’ that many autistic people experience due to negative school experiences… and also how the traps that come with trusting and assuming the best intentions can end badly. Thomas describes shades of grey involved with all aspects of life, and how rigid life outlooks or mottos can be very ineffective for the complex experience of life. 

They end on an inspirational and validating conversation about how socially set milestones, social expectations, and social media can warp your view of what you should be achieving at different ages in life. It can often feel suffocating, demoralising, and pressuring to fit into the molds others prescribe to us… often these can stop us from living life at our own pace and creating the beginning of our own success stories in life.

We see the athletes on the podium, hear the successful speakers/entrepreneurs, and get the impression their life has been perfect, with no lows, no boring/difficult months of training, and with general life success… but that’s not the case and it’s ok not be at your ‘peak’ now. Make small incremental changes over the long term and slowly traverse the mixed box of chocolates that is life.

Song Of The Day (Listen Here) - ⁠https://open.spotify.com/playlist/5UDIyN5TSYN4zMcRoQPrG8?si=9255ed3480d840b5⁠

Interview me, 1:1 Autism coaching, public speaking for events, workplace training  - ⁠https://www.thomashenley.co.uk

Autienelle’s Website - https://laurenmelissaellzey.com/ // My Links - https://linktr.ee/thomashenleyUK

They kick off the episode diving into Autienelles RED Instead livestream event and quickly dive into the world of gaming. Autienelle talks about their new venture into the world of Twitch streaming, focusing on the game Stardew Valley and chatting about everything Autism.

Stimming is a repetitive, self-soothing action that receives a lot of stigma and shame from parents, professionals, autistic adults, and the wider online communities. Its primary use is for regulating emotion, be it positive or negative, and isn’t to be confused with sensory joy. Autienelle takes us through the 8 senses and offers different examples of autistic stimming, as well as combinations through multi-sensory stimming.

Thomas Henley and Lauren Melissa bond over their mutual love for vestibular (balance) and proprioceptive (body awareness) stimming, something that is very common, but not well known about. The two theorise about how autistic hypersensitivities and hyposensitivities may influence which stims people do to regulate, and which ones may provide sensory joy.

Under the surface, sensory systems are even more complex than just visual or just vestibular; each sense has different aspects to them, and different types of nerves for separate functions. The complexity of these systems and the individuality of each autistic person lend to a very different sensory profile but also preferred stimming methods.

Diving into the deep end, Thomas talks about his experience with harmful stimming and self-injury during his adolescence. Autienelle highlights the importance of being aware of or logging different stims that are common to each situation and emotional state. Understanding your stims can be an eye-opener for how autistic people express emotions externally, allowing others to focus on these signs rather than indirect communication like facial expressions, tonality and body language.

They end the podcast talking about the common reservations people have around stimming, whether it’s fear of attention, anxiety, learned suppression, or shame… but stimming can be big or small, and there are many options for stimming which can be used in public or private spaces.

Song Of The Day (Listen Here) - https://open.spotify.com/playlist/5UDIyN5TSYN4zMcRoQPrG8?si=9255ed3480d840b5

Interview me, 1:1 Autism coaching, public speaking for events, workplace training  - https://www.thomashenley.co.uk

Paul’s Links - https://autismfromtheinside.com.au/ // My Links - https://linktr.ee/thomashenleyUK

Thomas starts the episode by diving into Paul’s history, making his mark on YouTube with a charity video where he shaved off his signature dreadlocks. Autism From The Inside explains the strange rise in social invitations, conversations, and connections during his dreadlock phase… the two share a similar experience, with Thomas’ story of improving his fashion sense, grooming, and physique.

Many autistic people believe logic is KING, especially when compared to seemingly illogical emotions. Thomas and Paul share that they tried to think their way into understanding the social/emotional aspects of life through careful observation from the sidelines… realising that many people do things that feel good, just for the sake of feeling good, and not necessarily following contemplation by weighing up the pros and cons!

Emotional needs are difficult to meet as an Autistic person, with Alexithymia, social issues, and a lack of cognitive empathy… it’s easy to see why we tend to focus on logic and ‘blanket approaches’ to dealing with negative emotion. The two agree that socialising is the primary way most humans go about managing complex emotions and events, making it difficult for autistic people to meet those needs independently.

Autism From The Inside explains the concept of Code Switching, whereby complex social interactions with neurotypicals can be navigated through learning about our cognitive/emotional differences and finding ways to relate to and socialise successfully with neurotypicals. Whilst navigating neurotypical communication is useful for daily life, workplaces, and socialising, Thomas highlights that there are a lot of situations where neurotypicals can and should meet us halfway.

Paul talks about the utility of fast emotional VS slow logical thinking, and how many autistic people will run into issues with executive functioning, social anxiety, and overwhelm when they don’t use their emotional brain for smaller tasks.

They end their podcast by speaking about the strange positive of Alexithymia in crisis situations, but also the issues when it comes to placing boundaries, building verbal trust, and navigating the social world.

Song Of The Day (Listen Here) - https://open.spotify.com/playlist/5UDIyN5TSYN4zMcRoQPrG8?si=9255ed3480d840b5

Interview me, 1:1 Autism coaching, public speaking for events, workplace training  - https://www.thomashenley.co.uk

NDC Links - https://linktr.ee/neurodivergentcrew // My Links - https://linktr.ee/thomashenleyUK

Thomas starts off the episode by introducing the guests and diving into their music background: FMA used to perform live metal music on stage, but found that his son 12-Gage had taken a shine to rap music; they started living together and talk about their first father-son duo experience at 12-Gages young age of 15. A previous drummer, Dreadnought was introduced to the group whilst studying media at University, and N0trixx was the final piece in the puzzle. N0trixx contacted the triple over Instagram, instantly finding common ground and providing a production role to bring in the group's talents together.

Diving into their personal history, N0trixx explains the defining moment where her personality split in two through Dissociative Identity Disorder (sometimes incorrectly termed as multiple personalities). She explains how the stigma of the disorder separated her from her family and previous life, but also ignited her passion to share her more pessimistic and dark outlook on life… through music.

FMA talks about his experience with a very late Autism diagnosis, as well as his experience with addiction and rehabilitation through his 20s and 30s. His son 12-Gage, explains the impact that undiagnosed Dyslexia and bullying had on his school experience and his own self-confidence. He was fortunate to have FMA as a father figure, allowing him to dodge the addiction traps his father succumbed to in his youth. Thomas bonds with the two on this due to his history of alcoholism and exercise addiction.

Dreadnought opens up about his experiences with ADHD, stating that it was important to know for his own understanding, and not necessarily therapy. Plunging into deep mental illness and addiction following his friend's passing at University, he remarks on the existential loneliness he experienced at University.

With all the experiences discussed, they finish by talking about the impacts their individual neurodivergencies had on their music career in the present day. This is undoubtedly a big dive into Neurodiversity, as well as all the many strings that connect them together and what the crew to brought them into the music scene… I hope you enjoy it!

Song Of The Day (Listen Here) - https://open.spotify.com/playlist/5UDIyN5TSYN4zMcRoQPrG8?si=9255ed3480d840b5

Interview me, 1:1 Autism coaching, public speaking for events, workplace training  - https://www.thomashenley.co.uk

Liv's Links - https://www.livlabelfree.com/links // My Links - https://linktr.ee/thomashenleyUK

Thomas kicks off the episode with a nod to Valentine's day before a swift transition to Liv's background; Livia opens up about her experiences with Anxiety, Depression, OCD, and Anorexia through her many years in and out of the medical system. She found that Autism was the missing element in her recovery journey, causing her to actively fight back against assumptions of 'Eating Disorder Behaviour' by ignorant Psychologists. 

Labels are a common topic within the Autism space, but Liv claims that labels around eating disorders can be restrictive on growth. Addiction becomes a habit and eventually a part of your identity, and once it's there it can be hard to separate from. Liv explains how her ED label was a source of certain comfort, a part of who she thought she was, and something that required a lot of uncomfortable change to distance herself from it and recover.

They talk about the issues around BMI, BMR, and Somatotypes in the medical and biological realms before moving on Autism and Eating Disorders. It seems that a few factors may be responsible for the high occurrence rates, Interoception, anxiety disorders, vagal nerve function, routine, aversion to change, literal interpretation, and ARFID (Avoidant Restrictive Food Intake Disorder).

Thomas and Liv debate the legitimacy of professionals without an open-minded approach, trust in clients, and input from lived experience. They talk about their own personal journies through healthcare, touching on the important qualities to look for in a good therapist, and leaving on some practical changes they would like to see in the future.

Song Of The Day (Listen Here) - https://open.spotify.com/playlist/5UDIyN5TSYN4zMcRoQPrG8?si=9255ed3480d840b5

Interview me, 1:1 Autism coaching, public speaking for events, workplace training  - https://www.thomashenley.co.uk

Carrin M. Gilmore (@letstalkaboutautism) is an Autism advocate offering Advocacy Accommodations sessions and support for parents and their children in developing IEP (Individual Education Plans). Working closely with Carole Whittington at Mind Your Autistic Brain, Carrin and the team seeks to bring greater inclusivity in the workplace, help neurodivergent couples connect on a deeper level and support neurodivergent individuals in their unmasking journey.

Carrin's Links - https://linktr.ee/CarrinMWAut // My Links - https://linktr.ee/thomashenleyUK

Originally an English teacher, Carrin seeks to bridge the gap between deficit models in the workplace and person-centred models in education. They talk about the various accommodations one can expect in the workplace, one of which is being fired (yes... you read that right, it's actual advice for workplaces!).

Thomas and Carrin paint a picture of the individuals who deal with the hand they are dealt in the workplace, highlighting the daily issues with energy, sanity and time management that could be avoided with accommodations. The system works using a Deficit Model, rather than a Strength-Based Model, providing cookie-cutter, blanket solutions for each and every individual - but needs are a spectrum.

Thomas raises the common charity-based thinking around employing Autistic people, with both offering their takes on the benefits these individuals have for businesses... beyond 'charity'.

Carrin lists some common adjustments: Work coaches, giving adequate processing time, clear and concise language, lists/bullet point instructions and CLEAR lines of communication for certain issues. However, these are NOT mandatory and even if they are met, positive adjustments offered the clearest path for Thomas' long-term employment success.

At the end of the day, the employment rates for autistic people are depressing at least, but there are gems out there who are willing to go the extra mile for their employees who are willing to work with them cooperatively and with the understanding that support is a two-way street.

Song Of The Day (Listen Here) - https://open.spotify.com/playlist/5UDIyN5TSYN4zMcRoQPrG8?si=9255ed3480d840b5

Interview me, 1:1 Autism coaching, public speaking for events, workplace training  - https://www.thomashenley.co.uk

Megan's Links - https://linkin.bio/neurodivergent_insights // My Links - https://linktr.ee/thomashenleyUK

Diagnosed at 37 with Autism and later with ADHD, she felt encouraged to explore her own neurodiversity following the diagnosis of her daughter. Thomas and Megan touch on the overlap between these two neurodiversities, and how individuals can be thought of as ADHD or Autism dominant depending on their presentation. For Megan, ADHD was hard to spot due to her lifestyle being based around her special interests.

Dr Megan Neff starts by giving us a comprehensive list of PTSD criteria and the complex world of c-PTSD... highlighting how autistic individuals often don't meet certain criteria around significant traumatic events, and how the fear response related to PTSD can be amplified by our neurology. Megan describes how c-PTSD can be developed, talking about how existing chronically unsafe environments during childhood could sensitise the fear centre of the brain (amygdala).

Touching on Philosophy and existential crisis, the two theorise about why Autistic people are more prone to these '4th wall break' experiences. Megan goes on to tell us about the disparity between PTSD and Autism statistics, and how this leads to a wide estimate of PTSD occurrence among the autistic population - even in the lowest conservative estimations, autistic individuals are at least 10x more likely to develop some form of PTSD.

Dr Neff points to a few reasons why autistic people are more likely to develop PTSD: Higher rates of victimisation, more reactive nervous systems, higher emotional and sensory sensitivity, as well as stronger and longer cortisol responses (stress hormone).

Thomas inquiries about the treatment options, highlighting the issues around medication and neurotypical-focussed psychotherapy - they talk about possible therapy, medication and alternative treatments like Biofeedback, Vagal Nerve Stimulation, EMDR and Personal Family Systems work.

Song Of The Day (Listen Here) - https://open.spotify.com/playlist/5UDIyN5TSYN4zMcRoQPrG8?si=9255ed3480d840b5

Interview me, 1:1 Autism coaching, public speaking for events, workplace training  - https://www.thomashenley.co.uk

Taylor Heaton (@taylor_heaton_) is the owner of the popular Autism YouTube channel Mom On The Spectrum which is closing on 40k subscribers at the time of recording. Taylor also coordinates peer support groups and does group and 1-2-1 coaching with Autistic clients across the globe.

Taylor's Links - https://linktr.ee/momonthespectrum // My Links - https://linktr.ee/thomashenleyUK

Diagnosed at 31 with Autism, as well as ADHD and Generalised Anxiety Disorder, Taylor goes into the reasons she started her YouTube channel and how being open on the internet helped her accept and explore her own diagnosis.

They kick off the conversation they dive deep into their experiences at high school, being overachievers and subject to bullying in school, they talk about the manipulation and social harassment they experienced from neurotypical women in their schools. Taylor explains the issues around puberty, particularly the emotional, hormonal and physical changes to women's bodies that can really aggravate someone sensory-wise. 

Mom On The Spectrum talks about her experience of social expectations as a woman in Texas, being expected to host, cater and open her house to people in the area - something I think many Autistic people would find overwhelming. She goes on to talk about the tendency of other women to gossip about others, and how uncomfortable it made her feel to be a part of it.

Maintaining friendships and relationships can be a difficult task for many autistic individuals, especially with a neurotypical partner who doesn't understand the ins and outs of Autism. Thomas and Taylor highlight the issue of managing your own social battery with the needs of people in their lives.

Neurodiverse relationships and dating provide a whole host of difficulties... struggling to navigate flirting, reading cues of interest, managing physical touch needs and double empathy. They both agree that all relationships require lots of communication, but neurodiverse relationships may require a lot more work from both sides.

Song Of The Day (Listen Here) - https://open.spotify.com/playlist/5UDIyN5TSYN4zMcRoQPrG8?si=9255ed3480d840b5

Interview me, 1:1 Autism coaching, public speaking for events, workplace training  - https://www.thomashenley.co.uk

Jamil Karriem (@HikiApp) is the owner of an Autism dating app called Hiki, released in July 2019. Featured in a Forbes magazine, Jamil was inspired to create the dating app when his Autistic cousin expressed difficulty in finding friendship and love. Within the episode, we talk all about his creative spin on the co-produced design of this autism dating app and how he's created a dating app for autistic people, designed by autistic people.

Hiki's Links - https://linktr.ee/Hiki // My Links - https://linktr.ee/thomashenleyUK

Kicking off the conversation they talk about their workplace experiences and changes during the pandemic, as well as the importance of interpersonal relationships for autistic individuals. With a background in sociology research, Jamil explains the reality facing many autistic people - loneliness, isolation and significant mental health issues. Self-reported success rates in dating and making friends seems to be highly concerning.

Thomas mentions what his experience of online dating has been like as an autistic man and how apps like Tinder, Bumble and Hinge can be difficult to navigate. Through a lot of community-based service design and a team made up of 80% Autistic adults, Jamil believes Hiki is the solution.

Jamil's role as a neurotypical CEO is to empower his team and community to design and run the Autism dating app, taking a backseat and supporting his co-workers to make change happen. He believes that diversity in an organisation is important for adding to the melting pot of ideas, solutions, and experiences... and he is right, but only when the business is inclusive and supportive of all its employees.

The contrast between 'real life' and online interactions can be very jarring and complex to understand. Men in general tend to struggle due to the volume of male users on these apps, but they can inspire plentiful levels of self-doubt. Autistic people may struggle much more in understanding the complex world of online dating, whether to disclose your autism upfront or pick up on the signs someone is dangerous.

Hiki seeks to be different to mainstream dating apps, providing a safe space for community, friendship and love. Inclusive to all genders, non-binary individuals, LGBTQA+ members and much more... Jamil celebrates each and every success story emailed in. Hiki also seeks to further improve the user experience for autistic people in the future, allowing them to feel comfortable in experiencing all aspects of social life.

Song Of The Day (Listen Here) - https://open.spotify.com/playlist/5UDIyN5TSYN4zMcRoQPrG8?si=9255ed3480d840b5

Interview me, 1:1 Autism coaching, Public Speaking for events, workplace training  - https://www.thomashenley.co.uk

SD's Links - https://linktr.ee/S.D_Flame // My Links - https://linktr.ee/thomashenleyUK

In this episode of the Thoughty Auti Podcast, Thomas Henley talks to SD Flame about the reality of 'making it' in the music industry and how his neurodivergence of Autism & ADHD positively or negatively impact his career as a music artist.

Kicking off they talk about their shared love for rap music before diving deep into the SD Flame's experiences in secondary school; he mentions that rap battles were a large part of how he became renowned in his school. Flame also experienced a harsh family divorce in his adolescence.

SD constructed and paid for his own recording studio with the funds he saved from evening jobs as a dishwasher, this was where he met and befriended other neurodivergent individuals in his area. At 19 he decided to take rap more seriously, freestyling in local bars and networking with other music artists at nightclubs and learning the values of respect and humbleness through personal experience.

They soon transitioned to talking about ADHD and Autism, and how his fast-paced brain, pattern recognition, hyper focus and creativity positively impacted his musical ability. Difficulty with burnout, transitions and inertia became a large focus when talking about the negatives, also explaining the difficulties of mental conditioning (de-tense), managing stress/anxiety and coping with the intense sensory environment of the stage.

Thomas draws comparisons to his experiences as a combat athlete in Taekwondo, and the difficulties of anxiety, panic attacks and meltdowns before fights.

They finish up by talking about the importance of pacing your workload, making adjustments to your environment and mental conditioning.

Song Of The Day (Listen Here) - https://open.spotify.com/playlist/5UDIyN5TSYN4zMcRoQPrG8?si=9255ed3480d840b5

Interview me, 1:1 Autism coaching, Public Speaking for events, workplace training  - https://www.thomashenley.co.uk

PJ Âû (@pj_au_) is a US-based Autism advocate in modeling, acting and singing. Not only a multi-award-winning individual, PJ volunteers her time to support autistic people in her community to locate the support and help that they need. Although not her main focus, asexuality is part of who she is and relishes in the opportunity to provide representation for the ACE community.

PJ's Links - https://linktr.ee/pj_au_ // My Links - https://linktr.ee/thomashenleyUK

In this episode of the Thoughty Auti Podcast, Thomas Henley talks to PJ all about asexuality and its range of subgroups of individuals within the ACE spectrum; they also touch on the link between Autism and asexuality, and bond over the difficulties and realities of dating as a member of the ACE community.

They start the conversation by bonding over their difficulties with Speech Apraxia and 'Selective' Mutism and how this encouraged PJ to focus more on modeling than her acting career. Todd from Bojack Horseman was mentioned multiple times, due to the representation his character gave the community as a male, Hispanic and asexual individual. 

PJ painfully tries to describe to Thomas the different sub-categories of Asexuality and jargon, which sparked up a conversation about the barriers to entry for learning about new topics like Autism. 

Thomas introduces his theories on why Autistic people are more likely to be asexual, such as sensory differences and indirect communication... but they both agreed that everyone's situation and the meaning don't require explanation to be valid, however interesting to delve into. Pj quoted over 50% of Autistic people identifying as on the ACE spectrum, and anywhere north of 70% for landing anywhere within the LGBTQA+ community. 

PJ opens up about her Hollywood'esque experience of meeting her now husband; after talking online and following each other's Cold Play Tumblr accounts for years they took a leap of faith and decided to give their relationship a go. They are a happily married s*x-repulsed Asexual couple.

They end up talking about the common criticisms, stereotypes and comments asexuals have to deal with online and within interpersonal relationships. Agreeing that asexuality is a useful label, NOT something to do with garnering attention or having a libido, and something extremely useful to label yourself as when navigating the tumultuous world of dating!

Song Of The Day (Listen Here) - https://open.spotify.com/playlist/5UDIyN5TSYN4zMcRoQPrG8?si=9255ed3480d840b5

Interview me, 1:1 Autism coaching, Public Speaking for events, workplace training  - https://www.thomashenley.co.uk

Purchase The Autism Friendly Cookbook from JKP - Use code AUTBOOKINSTA20 for 20% off 

Lydia Wilkins (@Journo_Lydia) is a freelance journalist with works published in renowned newspapers like the Metro, Refinery 29 and The Independent. Being a core member of the Conscious Being Magazine team and a contributor to the Conscious Being Podcast, Lydia seeks to shed light on topics around disability and social justice issues.

In this episode of the Thoughty Auti Podcast, Thomas Henley talks to journalist Lydia all about ableism, disability and Autism in the workplace. Lydia tells us about her dealings with the DWP and difficulties with receiving PIP (Personal Independence Payment), which was the ignition for the writing of the 'Autism Friendly Cook Book' - published recently this year, with previous TAP guest @21andSensory contributing her amazing illustrations to the final product!

They start the conversation by bonding over their frustration at the BBC Journalism Apprenticeship scheme, which was abruptly cancelled at the final stage during the COVID pandemic.

Thomas enquiries about Lydia's experiences with workplace ableism, with both highlighting examples of Direct and Indirect Ableism and how they interplay with other workplace issues such as autistic infantilisation, bullying, isolation, misogyny, microaggressions, pigeonholing, tokenisation and abuse.

Both agree that modern organisations focus on DIVERSITY but not INCLUSION - meaning there's lots of action through employment, but a lack of long-term job satisfaction and inclusion practices that bring the most out of those employees. Thomas sheds a light on the clear Deficit Model being used to guide inclusive practices like Reasonable Adjustments, and how pivotal a Strength-Based Model can be for the individual and organisation.

In order to fight ableism, the two suggest ideas on how we can improve the working world for disabled people: Incorporating training with Experts-By-Experience rather than just professionals, strengthening the Equality Act around reasonable adjustments, and shifting the mindset...

Employing Autistic people is NOT a charity effort, it's actually a very sound investment in the future of a business!

Lydia's Links:-

Website - https://lydiawilkins.co.uk/

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/journo_lydia/

Song Of The Day (Listen Here) - https://open.spotify.com/playlist/5UDIyN5TSYN4zMcRoQPrG8?si=9255ed3480d840b5

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Website - https://www.thomashenley.co.uk

♫ THOUGHTY AUTI PODCAST - https://open.spotify.com/show/6vjXgCB7Q3FwtQ2YqPjnEV

FOLLOW ME On Social Media ♥ -

☼ Instagram - @thomashenleyUK

Website - https://vincetheanomaly.com/

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/vincetheanomaly/

Song Of The Day (Listen Here) - https://open.spotify.com/playlist/5UDIyN5TSYN4zMcRoQPrG8?si=9255ed3480d840b5

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Website - https://www.thomashenley.co.uk

♫ THOUGHTY AUTI PODCAST - https://open.spotify.com/show/6vjXgCB7Q3FwtQ2YqPjnEV

FOLLOW ME On Social Media ♥ -

☼ Facebook - Thomas Henley

☼ Twitter - @thomashenleyuk

☼ Instagram - @thomashenleyUK

Website - https://www.scottklumb.com/

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/smkmedia/?hl=en

Song Of The Day (Listen Here) - https://open.spotify.com/playlist/5UDIyN5TSYN4zMcRoQPrG8?si=9255ed3480d840b5

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Website - https://www.thomashenley.co.uk

♫ THOUGHTY AUTI PODCAST - https://open.spotify.com/show/6vjXgCB7Q3FwtQ2YqPjnEV

FOLLOW ME On Social Media ♥ -

☼ Facebook - Thomas Henley

☼ Twitter - @thomashenleyuk

☼ Instagram - @thomashenleyUK

Website - https://www.theaspieworld.com/

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/TheAspieWorld/

YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/c/TheAspieWorld

Song Of The Day (Listen Here) - https://open.spotify.com/playlist/5UDIyN5TSYN4zMcRoQPrG8?si=9255ed3480d840b5

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Website - https://www.thomashenley.co.uk

♫ THOUGHTY AUTI PODCAST - https://open.spotify.com/show/6vjXgCB7Q3FwtQ2YqPjnEV

FOLLOW ME On Social Media ♥ -

☼ Facebook - Thomas Henley

☼ Twitter - @thomashenleyuk

☼ Instagram - @thomashenleyUK

Facebook group mentioned: Ukraine Autism Help

Aaron's Links:-

Donations: Save A Life UA 

Instagram - Personal / Business

YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCrBttdnpf_brCsXb5ErnQlw

Song Of The Day (Listen Here) - https://open.spotify.com/playlist/5UDIyN5TSYN4zMcRoQPrG8?si=9255ed3480d840b5

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Website - https://www.thomashenley.co.uk

♫ THOUGHTY AUTI PODCAST - https://open.spotify.com/show/6vjXgCB7Q3FwtQ2YqPjnEV

FOLLOW ME On Social Media ♥ -

☼ Facebook - Thomas Henley

☼ Twitter - @thomashenleyuk

☼ Instagram - @thomashenleyUK

If you have an exciting or interesting story and want to appear on the next podcast, please contact me at: aspergersgrowth@gmail.com

Amelia's Links:-

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/autisticpositivity/

All Links - https://linktr.ee/autisticpositivity

Autism Suicide Prevention Journal - https://ko-fi.com/s/04f3a8e22c

Song Of The Day (Listen Here) - https://open.spotify.com/playlist/5UDIyN5TSYN4zMcRoQPrG8?si=9255ed3480d840b5

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Website - https://www.thomashenley.co.uk

♫ THOUGHTY AUTI PODCAST - https://open.spotify.com/show/6vjXgCB7Q3FwtQ2YqPjnEV

FOLLOW ME On Social Media ♥ -

☼ Facebook - Thomas Henley

☼ Twitter - @thomashenleyuk

☼ Instagram - @thomashenleyUK

Support via Patreon! - https://www.patreon.com/thomashenleyUK

If you have an exciting or interesting story and want to appear on the next podcast, please contact me at: aspergersgrowth@gmail.com

Masons Links:-

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/autistic_advocate_for_crohns/

Podcast - https://open.spotify.com/show/3Fnn65Z8WlP3xDRfQpBPjt?si=554c0eec8c9f4f48

YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCWCQnjQ4E3SlQrWLm_rQiGA

Song Of The Day (Listen Here) - https://open.spotify.com/playlist/5UDIyN5TSYN4zMcRoQPrG8?si=9255ed3480d840b5

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Website - https://www.thomashenley.co.uk

♫ THOUGHTY AUTI PODCAST - https://open.spotify.com/show/6vjXgCB7Q3FwtQ2YqPjnEV

FOLLOW ME On Social Media ♥ -

☼ Facebook - Thomas Henley

☼ Twitter - @thomashenleyuk

☼ Instagram - @thomashenleyUK

Support via Patreon! - https://www.patreon.com/thomashenleyUK

Website - https://www.purpleella.com/

YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/user/purplemumify

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/purpleellaandcoco/

Song Of The Day (Listen Here) - https://open.spotify.com/playlist/5UDIyN5TSYN4zMcRoQPrG8?si=9255ed3480d840b5

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Website - https://www.thomashenley.co.uk

♫ THOUGHTY AUTI PODCAST Get it on Spotify free here - https://open.spotify.com/show/6vjXgCB7Q3FwtQ2YqPjnEV

FOLLOW ME On Social Media ♥ -

☼ Facebook - Aspergers Growth

☼ Twitter - @aspergersgrowth

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Support via Patreon! - https://www.patreon.com/aspergersgrowth

Books - https://www.templegrandin.com/books.html

Twitter - @DrTempleGrandin

Song Of The Day (Listen Here) - https://open.spotify.com/playlist/5UDIyN5TSYN4zMcRoQPrG8?si=9255ed3480d840b5

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Website - https://www.thomashenley.co.uk

♫ THOUGHTY AUTI PODCAST Get it on Spotify free here - https://open.spotify.com/show/6vjXgCB7Q3FwtQ2YqPjnEV

FOLLOW ME On Social Media ♥ -

☼ Facebook - Aspergers Growth

☼ Twitter - @aspergersgrowth

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Support via Patreon! - https://www.patreon.com/aspergersgrowth

Learn more at - www.autismresearchcentre.com

In this episode of the Thoughty Auti Podcast, Thomas Henley talks to Professor Simon Baron-Cohen - Director of the Cambridge Autism Research Centre and Professor of Developmental Psychopathology. The recent book 'The Pattern Seekers: A New Theory of Human Invention' is one of many published works Baron-Cohen has written on autism. In 1995, he formulated The Theory Of Mind theory of autism, and in 1997 he published the Prenatal Sex Steroid Theory of autism.

Simon and Thomas start off their chat with a dive into the reasons behind the Spectrum 10k, addressing the common fears around genetic research. They also touch on Simon's background and reasons for studying autism, before addressing the two general types of autism research - Causes & Applied research.

Empathy is a hot topic for anyone interested in autism. Simon explains the difference between Cognitive Empathy and Affective Empathy, highlighting the common misconceptions around it. Thomas draws on his teaching experience and his own life to give his personal take on empathy in autistic people.

The Professor describes his concepts of empathising and systemising from his view as an autism-researcher, noting that autistic people tend to fall into 2 main brain-types: Type S or Type Extreme S. Furthermore, the two point to natural selection as a possible source of autism genes... due to the notable strengths in innovation.

The E-S Theory has received heavy criticism due to pointing out the average sex differences in the brain types, described as Neurogendering or discriminatory in nature by some feminist groups. Thomas notes the importance of separating the social from the science, and Simon explains his stance on this criticism.

If you have an exciting or interesting story and want to appear on the next podcast, please contact me at: aspergersgrowth@gmail.com

Simon's Links:-

Twitter - https://twitter.com/sbaroncohen

TEDX Empathy Talk - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nXcU8x_xK18

The Pattern Seekers Talk - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=68mGRb-Mzjc

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Support via Patreon! - https://www.patreon.com/aspergersgrowth

Social Media ♥

☼ Facebook - Aspergers Growth

☼ Twitter/Instagram - @aspergersgrowth

♫ Track: [Chill Music] Ikson - Reverie [No Copyright Music]

Twitter -  https://twitter.com/stevesilberman?s=21

Buy Neurotribes - https://www.amazon.co.uk/NeuroTribes-Legacy-Autism-Smarter-Differently/dp/1760113638

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Website - https://www.thomashenley.co.uk

♫ THOUGHTY AUTI PODCAST Get it on Spotify free here - https://open.spotify.com/show/6vjXgCB7Q3FwtQ2YqPjnEV

FOLLOW ME On Social Media ♥ -

☼ Facebook - Aspergers Growth

☼ Twitter - @aspergersgrowth

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Support via Patreon! - https://www.patreon.com/aspergersgrowth

Francesca's Links:- https://linktr.ee/Aspiefranchfries 

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Website - https://www.thomashenley.co.uk  

♫ THOUGHTY AUTI PODCAST Get it on Spotify free here - https://open.spotify.com/show/6vjXgCB7Q3FwtQ2YqPjnEV  

FOLLOW ME On Social Media ♥ - 

☼ Facebook - Aspergers Growth 

☼ Twitter - @aspergersgrowth

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Support via Patreon! - https://www.patreon.com/aspergersgrowth

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/holisticautistic/

YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/c/HolisticAutistic

Website - https://holisticautistic.weebly.com/#/

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Support via Patreon! - https://www.patreon.com/aspergersgrowth

Social Media ♥

☼ Facebook - Aspergers Growth

☼ Twitter/Instagram - @aspergersgrowth

♫ Track: [Chill Music] Ikson - Reverie [No Copyright Music]

Website - https://planthaya.com/

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/planthaya/

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Support via Patreon! - https://www.patreon.com/aspergersgrowth

Social Media ♥

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♫ Track: [Chill Music] Ikson - Reverie [No Copyright Music]

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TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@reggieherold?lang=en

Website - https://www.reggieherold.com/

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Support via Patreon! - https://www.patreon.com/aspergersgrowth

Social Media ♥

☼ Facebook - Aspergers Growth

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♫ Listen On

Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/6vjXgCB7Q3FwtQ2YqPjnEV

Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/thoughty-auti-the-autism-mental-health-podcast/id1470689079

Music -

♫ Track: [Chill Music] Ikson - Reverie [No Copyright Music]

YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/user/welcome12ization/featured

Website - https://autismisindividual.wordpress.com/

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Support via Patreon! - https://www.patreon.com/aspergersgrowth

Social Media ♥ -

☼ Facebook - Aspergers Growth

☼ Twitter/Instagram - @aspergersgrowth

♫ Listen On -

☼ Spotify

☼ Apple Podcasts

☼ Google Podcasts

Music - ♫ Track: [Chill Music] Ikson - Reverie [No Copyright Music]

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thespectrumgirl/

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Support via Patreon! - https://www.patreon.com/aspergersgrowth 

Social Media ♥ - 

☼ Facebook - Aspergers Growth 

☼ Twitter/Instagram - @aspergersgrowth 

♫ Listen On - 

Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/6vjXgCB7Q3FwtQ2YqPjnEV 

Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/thoughty-auti-the-autism-mental-health-podcast/id1470689079 

Music - ♫ Track: [Chill Music] Ikson - Reverie [No Copyright Music]

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/theautismcafe/

Website - https://theautismcafe.com/

Twitter - https://twitter.com/theautismcafe 

▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬ 

Support via Patreon! - https://www.patreon.com/aspergersgrowth 

Social Media ♥ - 

☼ Facebook - Aspergers Growth

☼ Twitter/Instagram - @aspergersgrowth 

♫ Listen On - 

☼ Spotify

☼ Apple Podcasts

☼ Google Podcasts

Music - ♫ Track: [Chill Music] Ikson - Reverie [No Copyright Music]