Content warning: Don't listen to this one with the kids in the back seat... and discern whether it's going to be safe for your nervous system to hear Lil and Bri talk about relationships, sex, intimacy and pleasure at this time.

Keywords: ADHD, autism, AuDHD, relationships, intimacy, neurodivergent, sex education, communication, sensory experiences, self-acceptance

Summary: In this engaging conversation, Bri Thomas and Lil explore the themes of authenticity, neurodivergence, and intimacy. Lil shares their personal journey with ADHD and autism, discussing how these experiences shape their understanding of relationships and sexual intimacy. The discussion delves into the importance of communication, the impact of sensory experiences, and the need to challenge societal norms surrounding sex. Lil emphasizes the significance of self-discovery and pleasure, advocating for a more open dialogue about sexuality to reduce shame and foster connection.

Takeaways:

• AuDHDers often have unique experiences in intimacy.
• Communication is essential for understanding needs in relationships.
• Sensory experiences can greatly impact sexual intimacy.
• Breaking societal taboos around sex is necessary.
• Self-discovery is crucial for understanding personal pleasure.
• Shame around sexuality can hinder personal growth and connection.
• Creating supportive systems in relationships can alleviate stress.
• Pleasure is a birthright!

You can find Lil on Instagram at @neurokinnection.

Overview: In this engaging conversation, Jess, a registered psychologist, shares her journey of discovering her autism and ADHD. She discusses her early career experiences, the importance of lived experience in psychology, and the challenges of masking in social situations. Jess emphasises the push-pull dynamic between autism and ADHD, exploring how it affects her daily life and interactions. The conversation highlights the significance of self-advocacy, understanding one's own needs, and the importance of going with the tussle in your own brain.

Takeaways:

• Understanding one's neurodivergent identity can lead to greater self-acceptance.
• Masking is a common coping mechanism for AuDHDers.
• The push-pull dynamic between autism and ADHD can be exhausting.
• Self-advocacy is crucial in navigating social situations.
• Community support enhances well-being for neurodivergent individuals.
• Recognising bodily cues can help manage overwhelm.
• It's important to lean into one's thoughts and feelings.
• Working with the tug of war rather than fighting it leads to better outcomes.

You can find Jess on instagram at @pinkzebra.psychology

Keywords (Please consider this when listening to this podcast; make sure you're in an okay place to hear these topics): Food, AuDHD, eating disorders, ARFID, OCD, trauma, safety, nutrition, sensory processing, mental health.

Overview: In this conversation, Margo White and Bri Thomas explore the intricate relationship between food, AuDHD, and safety. Margo shares her personal journey with eating disorders and how her experiences shape her professional practice as a nutritionist. They discuss the complexities of ARFID, the impact of trauma on eating, and the intersection of OCD and food. The importance of predictability and self-compassion in navigating these challenges is emphasised, along with the need for support and accommodations to foster happier relationships with food.

Takeaways:

• Food is a significant part of our lives and eating is deeply sensory.
• ARFID presents differently in each individual, and there is no "one look".
• Safety and predictability are crucial for AuDHD individuals.
• Trauma can significantly impact one's relationship with food, and is remembered in the body.
• Self-compassion is essential in navigating food challenges.
• Understanding the intersection of OCD and ARFID is important.
• Support and accommodations can help improve eating experiences.

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Margo can be found on Instagram at @margo_wholebodynutrition.