Unapologetically Sensitive

Patricia Young

  • 29 minutes 45 seconds
    271 Keeping it Real During the Holidays: p.s. I Love the Grinch!

    Keeping it Real During the Holidays: p.s. I Love the Grinch!

    Patricia (she/her) dives into the emotional and sensory whirlwind of navigating change as an AuDHDer during the holiday season. She unpacks the exhaustion that comes from shifting family dynamics, unpredictable routines, kitten chaos, people coming and going, and the desire to show up with more capacity than she actually has. Patricia speaks candidly about shutdowns, resentment, communication misfires and boundary-setting. This episode invites listeners to honor their own wiring, acknowledge their limits, and give themselves permission to navigate change on their own terms—especially when the world is loud, messy, and demanding far too much.

    WHAT YOU'LL HEAR IN THIS EPISODE

    · The emotional weight of constant change during the holidays

    · Why autistic and AuDHD nervous systems struggle with unpredictability

    · How people coming and going can destabilize daily rhythms

    · Sensory overwhelm from decorations, noise, and social expectations

    · The shutdown mode that follows too much "peopling"

    · Resentment that canform when needs aren't communicated directly

    · That awkward dance between wanting to show up and feeling over capacity

    · Kitten chaos as both joy and sensory overload

    · Feeling responsible for everyone's experience (hello, people-pleasing!)

    · The grief of not feeling safe to voice your values or boundaries

    · Family conflict and the ripple effects on your emotional regulation

    · Why inconsistency can be draining for some neurodivergent brains

    · The need for predictability, routines, and familiar sensory anchors

    · Internalized pressure to be "easygoing," especially around holidays

    · The truth-telling wisdom of the body when burnout hits

    · "Harvest feast" (aka Thanksgiving) recovery mode

    · Observing subtle family dynamics that others overlook

    · Using pacing and gentle self-compassion to navigate the season

    · How even positive changes can be dysregulating

    · The reminder that honoring your limits is an act of self-love

    SOUND BITES

    · "Change really affects me. I overdid it, and now my body is telling the truth."

    · "Even things that you enjoy can be dysregulating and overwhelming."

    · "If someone could respond differently, they would—we're not choosing to have difficulty with change."

    · "Inconsistency is very difficult for me; it's not about the tree, it's about the mismatch."

    · "I think what I call depression is really resentment for not being direct."

    SENSITIVITY IS NOTHING TO APOLOGIZE FOR; IT'S HOW YOUR BRAIN IS WIRED

    You are not broken. You were shaped by systems that weren't built for you. You deserve rest, joy, and support exactly as you are.

    PODCAST HOST

    Patricia Young (she/her) was a Licensed Clinical Social Worker for over 17 years, but she is now exclusively providing coaching. She knows what it's like to feel like an outcast, misfit, and truthteller. Learning about the trait of being a Highly Sensitive Person (HSP), then learning she is AuDHD with a PDA profile, OCD and RSD, helped Patricia rewrite her history with a deeper understanding, appreciation, and a sense of self-compassion. She created the podcasts Unapologetically Sensitive and Unapologetically AuDHD to help other neurodivergent folks know that they aren't alone, and that having a brain that is wired differently comes with amazing gifts, and some challenges. Patricia works online globally working individually with people, and she teaches Online Courses for neurodivergent folks that focus on understanding what it means to be a sensitive neurodivergent. Topics covered include: self-care, self-compassion, boundaries, perfectionism, mindfulness, communication, and creating a lifestyle that honors you

    Patricia's website, podcast episodes and more: www.unapologeticallysensitive.com

    LINKS

    To write a review in itunes:

    1. click on this link https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/unapologetically-sensitive/id1440433481?mt=2
    2. select "listen on Apple Podcasts"
    3. chose "open in itunes"
    4. choose "ratings and reviews"
    5. click to rate the number of starts
    6. click "write a review"

    Website--www.unapologeticallysensitive.com

    Facebook-- https://www.facebook.com/Unapologetically-Sensitive-2296688923985657/

    Closed/Private Facebook group Unapologetically Sensitive-- https://www.facebook.com/groups/2099705880047619/

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

    Youtube-- https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCOE6fodj7RBdO3Iw0NrAllg/videos?view_as=subscriber

    Tik Tok--https://www.tiktok.com/@unapologeticallysensitiv

    Unapologetically AuDHD Podcast-- https://unapologeticallysensitive.com/unapologeticallyaudhd/

    e-mail-- [email protected]

    Show hashtag--#unapologeticallysensitive

    Music-- Gravel Dance by Andy Robinson www.andyrobinson.com

    9 December 2025, 7:00 pm
  • 27 minutes 5 seconds
    270 Boring Means Stable: Learning to Love Ordinary Days

    Boring Means Stable: Learning to Love Ordinary Days

    In this honest, meandering, and heart-centered solo episode, Patricia Young (she/her) opens up about feeling "not enough," while navigating overwhelm, managing PDA (Pervasive Drive for Autonomy. From decluttering and kayaking to the quiet comfort of boring days and the challenges of social invitations, Patricia invites listeners into the gentle, nonlinear process of living authentically as an AuDHDer. With humor and tenderness, she explores aging, family connection, holidays, and what it means to find peace amid imperfection.

    WHAT YOU'LL HEAR IN THIS EPISODE

    · · Warm check-in and reflection on recording after a long pause.

    · Questioning whether to focus on educational autism content vs. personal lived experiences.

    · Feeling conflicted about being "self-centered" but recognizing that stories are teaching.

    · Update on absence of neighborhood drama and emotional regulation progress.

    · Learning to accept being perceived and misunderstood without spiraling into shame.

    · The liberating philosophy of the "We Do Not Care Club" — embracing authenticity and dropping people-pleasing.

    · Honest reflections on living in a chronic state of "not enoughness."

    · Managing overwhelm, task initiation struggles, and executive dysfunction.

    · The surprising victory of small tasks — like finally writing and depositing a check.

    · Adjusting OCD medication and rediscovering emotional depth and aliveness.

    · The tension between stability, boredom, and gratitude.

    · Recognizing that neurotypical spaces often feel flat or alienating, while "your people" bring out your voice.

    · The resistance around novelty and social invitations, even for enjoyable experiences.

    · The humor and vulnerability of sharing internal dialogue with accepting friends.

    · ADHD-fueled hobby cycles, clutter, and the emotional complexity of decluttering as an ND person.

    · Reflections on attachment to objects, trauma, and "don't touch my stuff" energy.

    · Navigating change, potential regret, and the push-pull between freedom and familiarity.

    · Anticipating the kids moving in—balancing excitement, companionship, and uncertainty.

    · Thoughts on the holidays, overstimulation, and why Thanksgiving feels grounding and joyful.

    · PDA flare-ups, avoidance of even beneficial demands, and compassion for executive fatigue.

    SOUND BITES

    · "I've really been in this era of not enough. Whatever I do just doesn't feel like enough."

    · "People are going to have their own thoughts and judgments about us — and we can't control that."

    · "I'm just trying to appreciate boring days, because boring means stable."

    · "Even when it's something that will help me, if it feels like a demand, my brain just says no."

    · "You are not for everybody, and everyone is not for you."

    SENSITIVITY IS NOTHING TO APOLOGIZE FOR; IT'S HOW YOUR BRAIN IS WIRED

    You are not broken. You were shaped by systems that weren't built for you. You deserve rest, joy, and support exactly as you are.

    TOPICS COVERED (please adjust for addition of introduction)

    00:00 Navigating Personal Updates and Autism Awareness

    PODCAST HOST

    Patricia Young (she/her) was a Licensed Clinical Social Worker for over 17 years, but she is now exclusively providing coaching. She knows what it's like to feel like an outcast, misfit, and truthteller. Learning about the trait of being a Highly Sensitive Person (HSP), then learning she is AuDHD with a PDA profile, OCD and RSD, helped Patricia rewrite her history with a deeper understanding, appreciation, and a sense of self-compassion. She created the podcasts Unapologetically Sensitive and Unapologetically AuDHD to help other neurodivergent folks know that they aren't alone, and that having a brain that is wired differently comes with amazing gifts, and some challenges. Patricia works online globally working individually with people, and she teaches Online Courses for neurodivergent folks that focus on understanding what it means to be a sensitive neurodivergent. Topics covered include: self-care, self-compassion, boundaries, perfectionism, mindfulness, communication, and creating a lifestyle that honors you

    Patricia's website, podcast episodes and more: www.unapologeticallysensitive.com

    LINKS

    We Do Not Care Club

    IG-justbeingmelani

    www.wedonotcareclub.com

    To write a review in itunes:

    1. click on this link https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/unapologetically-sensitive/id1440433481?mt=2
    2. select "listen on Apple Podcasts"
    3. chose "open in itunes"
    4. choose "ratings and reviews"
    5. click to rate the number of starts
    6. click "write a review"

    Website--www.unapologeticallysensitive.com

    Facebook-- https://www.facebook.com/Unapologetically-Sensitive-2296688923985657/

    Closed/Private Facebook group Unapologetically Sensitive-- https://www.facebook.com/groups/2099705880047619/

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

    Youtube-- https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCOE6fodj7RBdO3Iw0NrAllg/videos?view_as=subscriber

    Tik Tok--https://www.tiktok.com/@unapologeticallysensitiv

    Unapologetically AuDHD Podcast-- https://unapologeticallysensitive.com/unapologeticallyaudhd/

    e-mail-- [email protected]

    Show hashtag--#unapologeticallysensitive

    Music-- Gravel Dance by Andy Robinson www.andyrobinson.com

    25 November 2025, 10:34 pm
  • 28 minutes 25 seconds
    269 No Room for In-Between: Literal Thinking and Communication Ruptures

    No Room for In-Between: Literal Thinking and Communication Ruptures

    In this raw and honest episode, Patricia (she/her) shares her ongoing challenges with neurodivergent miscommunication, community rupture, and the emotional toll of being misunderstood. From neighborhood conflicts to horse training lessons, from cancel culture to navigating friendships and travel as an autistic person, Patricia opens up about the messy, contradictory realities of life, belonging, and growth. Listeners will walk away feeling less alone in their struggles with relationships, self-advocacy, and embracing both discomfort and joy.

    WHAT YOU'LL HEAR IN THIS EPISODE

    · Why Patricia didn't want to record this episode—and why she did anyway

    · The ongoing story of neighborhood rupture and the painful dynamics of miscommunication

    · How neurodivergent communication differences play into misunderstanding and conflict

    · The discomfort of being misunderstood as an autistic person who values precision and exactness

    · The struggle of wanting repair but receiving ongoing hurtful communication instead

    · Recognizing when "these are not our people" and finding peace in letting go

    · Cancel culture: when it's useful, when it's harmful, and Patricia's lived perspective

    · How language change matters—and conversations with her husband about accountability in speech

    · The empowerment that comes from horse training and facing fear with big draft horses

    · Lessons from working with animals: calm presence, assertiveness, and learning new leadership skills

    · Navigating differences in friendships around money, dining, and travel

    · The autistic push-pull between craving sameness and being invited into novelty

    · Strategies for managing overwhelm when faced with too many choices or new experiences

    · How safe friendships allow for authenticity and unmasking

    · The sadness and privilege of having barriers to change, novelty, and travel—and finding supportive companions

    · Building resilience through small trial runs and intentional fun

    · The importance of bumping up against resistance to live a fuller, lighter life

    · Patricia's reflections on aging, matching tattoos with her kids, and wanting to add more joy

    SOUND BITES

    · There are times when we need to speak up, and there are times when we need to let people misunderstand us and sit with the discomfort."

    · "If you're autistic, precision and exactness are high values—being misunderstood can feel unbearable."

    · "This isn't personal. This is about neurodivergent miscommunication. And that gave me relief—at least for a little while."

    · "I'm more than two-thirds through my life, and I want to whip it up a little bit. If you're going to do some fun stuff, you better do it soon."

    · "Sensitivity is nothing to apologize for. You are perfect exactly as you are in a world not made for us."

    SENSITIVITY IS NOTHING TO APOLOGIZE FOR; IT'S HOW YOUR BRAIN IS WIRED

    You are not broken. You were shaped by systems that weren't built for you. You deserve rest, joy, and support exactly as you are.

    TOPICS COVERED (please adjust for addition of introduction)

    00:00 Navigating Neurodivergent Communication Challenges

    09:40 The Impact of Cancel Culture on Relationships

    19:11 Finding Community and Connection

    25:07 Embracing Change and Personal Growth

    PODCAST HOST

    Patricia Young (she/her) was a Licensed Clinical Social Worker for over 17 years, but she is now exclusively providing coaching. She knows what it's like to feel like an outcast, misfit, and truthteller. Learning about the trait of being a Highly Sensitive Person (HSP), then learning she is AuDHD with a PDA profile, OCD and RSD, helped Patricia rewrite her history with a deeper understanding, appreciation, and a sense of self-compassion. She created the podcasts Unapologetically Sensitive and Unapologetically AuDHD to help other neurodivergent folks know that they aren't alone, and that having a brain that is wired differently comes with amazing gifts, and some challenges. Patricia works online globally working individually with people, and she teaches Online Courses for neurodivergent folks that focus on understanding what it means to be a sensitive neurodivergent. Topics covered include: self-care, self-compassion, boundaries, perfectionism, mindfulness, communication, and creating a lifestyle that honors you

    Patricia's website, podcast episodes and more: www.unapologeticallysensitive.com

    LINKS

    To write a review in itunes:

    1. click on this link https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/unapologetically-sensitive/id1440433481?mt=2
    2. select "listen on Apple Podcasts"
    3. chose "open in itunes"
    4. choose "ratings and reviews"
    5. click to rate the number of starts
    6. click "write a review"

    Website--www.unapologeticallysensitive.com

    Facebook-- https://www.facebook.com/Unapologetically-Sensitive-2296688923985657/

    Closed/Private Facebook group Unapologetically Sensitive-- https://www.facebook.com/groups/2099705880047619/

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

    Youtube-- https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCOE6fodj7RBdO3Iw0NrAllg/videos?view_as=subscriber

    Tik Tok--https://www.tiktok.com/@unapologeticallysensitiv

    Unapologetically AuDHD Podcast-- https://unapologeticallysensitive.com/unapologeticallyaudhd/

    e-mail-- [email protected]

    Show hashtag--#unapologeticallysensitive

    Music-- Gravel Dance by Andy Robinson www.andyrobinson.com

    11 November 2025, 6:00 pm
  • 43 minutes 42 seconds
    268 The Push-Pull of ADHD and Autism: Stretching Without Breaking

    The Push-Pull of ADHD and Autism: Stretching Without Breaking

    In this candid conversation, Patricia Young (she/her) and B Lourenco (she/her) dive deep into the realities of living with ADHD, autism, and other forms of neurodivergence. They explore the push-pull between self-accommodation and stretching ourselves, how shame and internalized ableism impact daily life, and what it means to create realistic support systems at home, in relationships, and in the workplace. Expect raw honesty, relatable stories, and practical insights for navigating neurodivergent life.

    WHAT YOU'LL HEAR IN THIS EPISODE

    · The ongoing "driver's seat battle" between ADHD and autism.

    · The push-pull between making accommodations and stretching ourselves beyond comfort.

    · Parenting a neurodivergent young adult while balancing when to push and when to allow rest.

    · Task initiation struggles — from making banana bread to cooking meals.

    · Body doubling as a powerful tool to reduce shame and spark motivation.

    · The "crisper/rotter" effect — guilt over wasted food and executive dysfunction.

    · Financial and practical impacts of task initiation challenges.

    · How privilege plays into having options like prepared or frozen meals when cooking feels impossible.

    · The cost of pushing through fatigue and flares with conditions like POTS and MCAS.

    · "Future me" thinking — and the difficulties neurodivergent folks have with impermanence.

    · Shame as the "ice cream scoop" on top of disability struggles.

    · Why diagnosis matters: language helps reduce shame and prevent repeating harmful patterns.

    · How powerlessness, and an attempt to gain autonomy can show up in small, reactive choices (like leaving a Facebook group).

    · Sensory sensitivities in family systems — how lack of accommodations can lead to dysfunction.

    · Practical accommodations for noise-sensitive parents and their kids.

    · Workplace challenges: 40-hour weeks, return-to-office pressures, and capitalism's rigidity.

    · Creative problem-solving in disabled and neurodivergent communities.

    · The deep fear of being uncared for and alone if we can't keep up.

    · Hyper-independence and isolation in the ADHD/autistic community.

    · Internalized ableism and the "shoulds" that drive shame and burnout.

    · Neurodivergence as a dynamic disability — what's possible one day isn't always possible the next.

    · Radical acceptance as a path toward reducing judgment and finding relief.

    SOUND BITES

    · "It begs the question of, okay, is that okay? Can we just say that's how it is?" – B Lourenco

    · "Instead of putting our energy into addressing the gap, folks will take the great divide and then put a scoop of shame on top of it." – B Lourenco

    · "All the terrible things that we tell ourselves… if I didn't have that awareness, I'd just keep repeating these patterns." – Patricia Young

    · "In order to truly accommodate ourselves, we have to acknowledge that it's as hard as it is and that we're as disabled as we are." – B Lourenco

    · "Sometimes I have to ask myself, what if what you're going through is exactly where you need to be?" – Patricia Young

    SENSITIVITY IS NOTHING TO APOLOGIZE FOR; IT'S HOW YOUR BRAIN IS WIRED

    You are not broken. You were shaped by systems that weren't built for you. You deserve rest, joy, and support exactly as you are.

    TOPICS COVERED (please adjust for addition of introduction)

    00:00 Navigating Neurodivergence: A Personal Journey

    02:59 Understanding Accommodations: Balancing Needs and Expectations

    05:48 The Push-Pull of Task Initiation and Self-Care

    08:33 Shame and Support: The Role of Community

    11:35 The Impact of Environment on Neurodivergent Individuals

    14:26 Workplace Challenges: The Struggle for Accommodations

    17:16 Building Bridges: Community and Creative Solutions

    20:00 Radical Acceptance: Embracing Our Reality

    22:48 The Journey of Self-Discovery and Identity

    25:42 The Dynamic Nature of Neurodivergence

    29:02 Finding Joy in the Present Moment

    31:47 The Bigger Picture: Building a Better Future

    34:47 Conclusion: Resources and Future Endeavors

    PODCAST HOST

    Patricia Young (she/her) was a Licensed Clinical Social Worker for over 17 years, but she is now exclusively providing coaching. She knows what it's like to feel like an outcast, misfit, and truthteller. Learning about the trait of being a Highly Sensitive Person (HSP), then learning she is AuDHD with a PDA profile, OCD and RSD, helped Patricia rewrite her history with a deeper understanding, appreciation, and a sense of self-compassion. She created the podcasts Unapologetically Sensitive and Unapologetically AuDHD to help other neurodivergent folks know that they aren't alone, and that having a brain that is wired differently comes with amazing gifts, and some challenges. Patricia works online globally working individually with people, and she teaches Online Courses for neurodivergent folks that focus on understanding what it means to be a sensitive neurodivergent. Topics covered include: self-care, self-compassion, boundaries, perfectionism, mindfulness, communication, and creating a lifestyle that honors you

    Patricia's website, podcast episodes and more: www.unapologeticallysensitive.com

    PODCAST GUEST

    B Lourenco, MA, LMHC (she/her) is a licensed mental health counselor, educator, advocate, and activist. B has been working in community support for nearly 20 years and is committed to social change on all system levels. Seeing mental health advocacy as a way to serve the community, she earned a Master of Arts degree in Clinical Psychology, with a Systems Emphasis, in 2015 and began her private practice, B Lourenco Therapy in 2017.

    B has also worked in the public school system, providing support to students with behavioral issues that made attending school challenging for them. Highly trained in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), B became a district-wide expert in supporting neurodivergent students. It was during this work that she began to be critical of the medical models of support for neurodivergence, including ABA. Making the shift from the medical to the Neurodiversity-affirming model has allowed her to finally identify her own neurodivergence, including Autism and ADHD.

    Combining her lived experience of neurodivergence, along with years of anti-oppression work, B is passionate about helping others untangle themselves from harmful practices and align themselves with those that instead support marginalized communities. In addition to CE events for healthcare providers, she has also been a speaker on panels and podcasts, and also facilitates community based workshops. https://www.blourencotherapy.com

    LINKS

    Cascadia Training: https://cascadia-training.com

    Imani Barbarin—crutches_and_spice IG https://www.instagram.com/crutches_and_spice/

    To write a review in itunes:

    1. click on this link https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/unapologetically-sensitive/id1440433481?mt=2
    2. select "listen on Apple Podcasts"
    3. chose "open in itunes"
    4. choose "ratings and reviews"
    5. click to rate the number of starts
    6. click "write a review"

    Website--www.unapologeticallysensitive.com

    Facebook-- https://www.facebook.com/Unapologetically-Sensitive-2296688923985657/

    Closed/Private Facebook group Unapologetically Sensitive-- https://www.facebook.com/groups/2099705880047619/

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

    Youtube-- https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCOE6fodj7RBdO3Iw0NrAllg/videos?view_as=subscriber

    Tik Tok--https://www.tiktok.com/@unapologeticallysensitiv

    Unapologetically AuDHD Podcast-- https://unapologeticallysensitive.com/unapologeticallyaudhd/

    e-mail-- [email protected]

    Show hashtag--#unapologeticallysensitive

    Music-- Gravel Dance by Andy Robinson www.andyrobinson.com

    28 October 2025, 7:00 am
  • 32 minutes 41 seconds
    267 Rupture without Repair, and the Discomfort of Being Misunderstood

    Rupture without Repair, and the Discomfort of Being Misunderstood

    In this deeply personal episode, Patricia (she/her) unpacks the fallout from a neighborhood rupture and the painful loss of community connection. Through the lens of being autistic and AuDHD, she explores rejection sensitivity, communication breakdowns, friendship trauma, and why repair isn't always possible. She also shares how co-regulation, body doubling, Costco runs, and fierce family love provide grounding. This conversation is raw, tender, and validating for anyone who has struggled with being misunderstood as a neurodivergent person.

    WHAT YOU'LL HEAR IN THIS EPISODE

    · The neighborhood rupture and how a joke led to exclusion from a community group

    · What happens when rupture and repair aren't possible in friendships

    · The autistic need for clarity, communication, and closure

    · Rejection Sensitivity Dysphoria (RSD) and how silence feels like rejection

    · The PDA (persistent drive for autonomy) response to being left out

    · The pain of friendship trauma and feeling misunderstood

    · How autistic people process and loop on unresolved conflict

    · The role of community in belonging and nervous system regulation

    · Why body doubling and co-regulation help autistic/ADHD brains stay grounded

    · Finding comfort in Costco runs, small joys, and simple routines

    · Permission to need rest, wear earplugs, or retreat from sensory overwhelm

    · Generational differences in friendship and communication between neurodivergent people

    · Practicing adaptability through change (like moving workspaces at home)

    · The bittersweet truth: not all friendships are meant to last

    · Gratitude reframed through an autistic lens—how to find appreciation without bypassing pain

    SOUND BITES

    "For us, it felt like there was no space for human mistakes, no place for rupture and repair."

    "This activated friendship trauma in me, and I've noticed my protective armor is up."

    "Intellectually, I know this is fine. Emotionally, feeling misunderstood and powerless is really hard."

    "You have a right to speak up."

    "Not all friendships last forever."

    "Life is messy. Friendships are messy."

    "Body doubling is such a beautiful way to borrow someone else's nervous system to regulate."

    "Sensitivity is nothing to apologize for. It's how you're wired. You have the right to take up space."

    SENSITIVITY IS NOTHING TO APOLOGIZE FOR; IT'S HOW YOUR BRAIN IS WIRED

    You are not broken. You were shaped by systems that weren't built for you. You deserve rest, joy, and support exactly as you are.

    TOPICS COVERED (please adjust for addition of introduction)

    00:00 Navigating Community Dynamics

    08:42 The Impact of Silence and Rejection

    17:06 Rupture, Repair, and the Complexity of Relationships

    23:52 Finding Joy in Everyday Moments

    29:13 Gratitude and Perspective on Life

    PODCAST HOST

    Patricia Young (she/her) was a Licensed Clinical Social Worker for over 17 years, but she is now exclusively providing coaching. She knows what it's like to feel like an outcast, misfit, and truthteller. Learning about the trait of being a Highly Sensitive Person (HSP), then learning she is AuDHD with a PDA profile, OCD and RSD, helped Patricia rewrite her history with a deeper understanding, appreciation, and a sense of self-compassion. She created the podcasts Unapologetically Sensitive and Unapologetically AuDHD to help other neurodivergent folks know that they aren't alone, and that having a brain that is wired differently comes with amazing gifts, and some challenges. Patricia works online globally working individually with people, and she teaches Online Courses for neurodivergent folks that focus on understanding what it means to be a sensitive neurodivergent. Topics covered include: self-care, self-compassion, boundaries, perfectionism, mindfulness, communication, and creating a lifestyle that honors you

    Patricia's website, podcast episodes and more: www.unapologeticallysensitive.com

    LINKS

    To write a review in itunes:

    1. click on this link https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/unapologetically-sensitive/id1440433481?mt=2
    2. select "listen on Apple Podcasts"
    3. chose "open in itunes"
    4. choose "ratings and reviews"
    5. click to rate the number of starts
    6. click "write a review"

    Website--www.unapologeticallysensitive.com

    Facebook-- https://www.facebook.com/Unapologetically-Sensitive-2296688923985657/

    Closed/Private Facebook group Unapologetically Sensitive-- https://www.facebook.com/groups/2099705880047619/

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

    Youtube-- https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCOE6fodj7RBdO3Iw0NrAllg/videos?view_as=subscriber

    Tik Tok--https://www.tiktok.com/@unapologeticallysensitiv

    Unapologetically AuDHD Podcast-- https://unapologeticallysensitive.com/unapologeticallyaudhd/

    e-mail-- [email protected]

    Show hashtag--#unapologeticallysensitive

    Music-- Gravel Dance by Andy Robinson www.andyrobinson.com

    14 October 2025, 7:00 am
  • 23 minutes 28 seconds
    266 When ADHD Wants Adventure and Autism Just Wants a Nap

    When ADHD Wants Adventure and Autism Just Wants a Nap

    Patricia (she/her) explores what it means to show up authentically as a neurodivergent person—especially when navigating the tension between wanting novelty (hello ADHD/AuDHD brains!) and craving sameness (thank you autism). She shares candid stories about celebrating her anniversary, managing low energy, social interactions, and dealing with conflict. Patricia also opens up about balancing autistic traits, ADHD novelty-seeking, PDA (persistent drive for autonomy), and honoring her sensitivity. If you're autistic, ADHD, AuDHD, or otherwise neurodivergent, this episode offers relatable honesty, self-compassion, and a reminder that sensitivity is nothing to apologize for.

    WHAT YOU'LL HEAR IN THIS EPISODE

    · Why showing up authentically—even when low energy or struggling—creates safety and deeper connection.

    · The push-pull between ADHD's love of novelty and autism's need for sameness.

    · A vulnerable look at performance pressure, PDA (persistent drive for autonomy), and the tension of "supposed to" versus authentic presence.

    · Reflections on navigating conflict, rejection, and the looping thoughts that come with OCD and sensitivity.

    · Stories of how small moments of authenticity (complimenting a server, connecting with strangers, sharing vulnerability) can bring ease and humor.

    · The joys of volunteering with puppies, finding novelty in animals, and noticing the small things that bring comfort.

    · Honest sharing about energy struggles, self-judgment, and learning to honor your body's signals.

    KEY TAKEAWAYS

    · You don't have to perform or mask to be worthy of connection.

    · Novelty and sameness can co-exist—it's about experimenting and noticing what feels supportive.

    · Authenticity often comes in small, ordinary moments that bring relief and connection.

    · Conflict and rejection are painful, but self-trust and curiosity can soften the edges.

    · Sensitivity is not something to apologize for—it's a way of being in the world.

    SOUND BITES

    "Show up as you are."

    "I felt very inadequate."

    "I really resist it."

    SENSITIVITY IS NOTHING TO APOLOGIZE FOR; IT'S HOW YOUR BRAIN IS WIRED

    You are not broken. You were shaped by systems that weren't built for you. You deserve rest, joy, and support exactly as you are.

    TOPICS COVERED (please adjust for addition of introduction)

    00:00 Embracing Authenticity

    09:12 Navigating Social Expectations

    17:54 Finding Balance in Emotions

    PODCAST HOST

    Patricia Young (she/her) was a Licensed Clinical Social Worker for over 17 years, but she is now exclusively providing coaching. She knows what it's like to feel like an outcast, misfit, and truthteller. Learning about the trait of being a Highly Sensitive Person (HSP), then learning she is AuDHD with a PDA profile, OCD and RSD, helped Patricia rewrite her history with a deeper understanding, appreciation, and a sense of self-compassion. She created the podcasts Unapologetically Sensitive and Unapologetically AuDHD to help other neurodivergent folks know that they aren't alone, and that having a brain that is wired differently comes with amazing gifts, and some challenges. Patricia works online globally working individually with people, and she teaches Online Courses for neurodivergent folks that focus on understanding what it means to be a sensitive neurodivergent. Topics covered include: self-care, self-compassion, boundaries, perfectionism, mindfulness, communication, and creating a lifestyle that honors you

    Patricia's website, podcast episodes and more: www.unapologeticallysensitive.com

    LINKS

    To write a review in itunes:

    1. click on this link https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/unapologetically-sensitive/id1440433481?mt=2
    2. select "listen on Apple Podcasts"
    3. chose "open in itunes"
    4. choose "ratings and reviews"
    5. click to rate the number of starts
    6. click "write a review"

    Website--www.unapologeticallysensitive.com

    Facebook-- https://www.facebook.com/Unapologetically-Sensitive-2296688923985657/

    Closed/Private Facebook group Unapologetically Sensitive-- https://www.facebook.com/groups/2099705880047619/

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

    Youtube-- https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCOE6fodj7RBdO3Iw0NrAllg/videos?view_as=subscriber

    Tik Tok--https://www.tiktok.com/@unapologeticallysensitiv

    Unapologetically AuDHD Podcast-- https://unapologeticallysensitive.com/unapologeticallyaudhd/

    e-mail-- [email protected]

    Show hashtag--#unapologeticallysensitive

    Music-- Gravel Dance by Andy Robinson www.andyrobinson.com

    30 September 2025, 6:00 pm
  • 28 minutes 32 seconds
    265 When the Dogs Stop Saying Hi: The Human Need for Connection and Belonging

    When the Dogs Stop Saying Hi: The Human Need for Connection and Belonging

    Patricia (she/her) explores the complexities of community, being perceived, and the challenges of navigating relationships amidst misunderstandings and cancel culture. She shares personal experiences of rupture and repair within her community, reflecting on the emotional impact of feeling excluded and the importance of acknowledging one's behavior in relationships. Patricia also highlights the simultaneous beauty of connections and celebrations, even amidst challenges, emphasizing the need for self-acceptance and understanding in the face of adversity.

    KEY TAKEAWAYS

    · The emotional toll of being perceived in a way that doesn't match how we see ourselves

    · Owning mistakes and navigating the possibility of repair (even when others might not be open)

    · The pain of being excluded from community events and how rejection sensitivity & OCD can flare

    · Mixed emotions around her birthday — feeling both unseen by some and deeply loved by others

    · The balance between taking accountability and resisting self-abandonment

    · Practices of self-compassion when reassurance doesn't come from others

    · What happens when justice, fragility, and nuance collide in relationships

    · Her growing love of animals, volunteering with horses, and a longing to return to simple joys

    · A behind-the-scenes peek into the Unapologetically AuDHD podcast launch

    · The challenges of time agnosia in friendships and how ND folks can navigate it compassionately

    · Updates on kayaking, paddleboarding, and listening to her nervous system

    · A gentle invitation to ask yourself: Would I want to be in community with people who won't repair?

    HIGHLIGHTS

    · The challenge of being perceived differently than how we see ourselves.

    · Rupture and repair are essential components of relationships.

    · Community can provide both support and feelings of exclusion.

    · Setting boundaries is a right everyone has.

    · Cancel culture can complicate personal relationships.

    · Acknowledging one's behavior is crucial for repair.

    · It's important to celebrate connections amidst challenges.

    · Sensitivity is a unique trait that should be embraced.

    · Self-acceptance is key to navigating emotional turmoil.

    · Finding joy in small moments can help during difficult times.

    SOUND BITES

    "Rupture and repair is part of being human. And sometimes repair doesn't happen — but that doesn't mean we stop showing up with integrity."

    "My OCD wants reassurance. And sometimes, I just have to sit with that and give it to myself."

    "We all have a primal need for belonging. And when that's taken away, it's a wound that goes deep."

    "I want to spend time with animals."

    "It's okay to not be social."

    "It's okay to feel connected."

    SENSITIVITY IS NOTHING TO APOLOGIZE FOR; IT'S HOW YOUR BRAIN IS WIRED

    You are not broken. You were shaped by systems that weren't built for you. You deserve rest, joy, and support exactly as you are.

    TOPICS COVERED (please adjust for addition of introduction)

    00:00 Navigating Community and Perception 11:44 Rupture and Repair in Relationships 19:20 Celebrating Connections Amidst Challenges 25:44 Embracing Sensitivity and Self-Acceptance

    PODCAST HOST

    Patricia Young (she/her) was a Licensed Clinical Social Worker for over 17 years, but she is now exclusively providing coaching. She knows what it's like to feel like an outcast, misfit, and truthteller. Learning about the trait of being a Highly Sensitive Person (HSP), then learning she is AuDHD with a PDA profile, OCD and RSD, helped Patricia rewrite her history with a deeper understanding, appreciation, and a sense of self-compassion. She created the podcasts Unapologetically Sensitive and Unapologetically AuDHD to help other neurodivergent folks know that they aren't alone, and that having a brain that is wired differently comes with amazing gifts, and some challenges. Patricia works online globally working individually with people, and she teaches Online Courses for neurodivergent folks that focus on understanding what it means to be a sensitive neurodivergent. Topics covered include: self-care, self-compassion, boundaries, perfectionism, mindfulness, communication, and creating a lifestyle that honors you

    Patricia's website, podcast episodes and more: www.unapologeticallysensitive.com

    LINKS

    To write a review in itunes:

    1. click on this link https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/unapologetically-sensitive/id1440433481?mt=2
    2. select "listen on Apple Podcasts"
    3. chose "open in itunes"
    4. choose "ratings and reviews"
    5. click to rate the number of starts
    6. click "write a review"

    Website--www.unapologeticallysensitive.com

    Facebook-- https://www.facebook.com/Unapologetically-Sensitive-2296688923985657/

    Closed/Private Facebook group Unapologetically Sensitive-- https://www.facebook.com/groups/2099705880047619/

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

    Youtube-- https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCOE6fodj7RBdO3Iw0NrAllg/videos?view_as=subscriber

    Tik Tok--https://www.tiktok.com/@unapologeticallysensitiv

    Unapologetically AuDHD Podcast-- https://unapologeticallysensitive.com/unapologeticallyaudhd/

    e-mail-- [email protected]

    Show hashtag--#unapologeticallysensitive

    Music-- Gravel Dance by Andy Robinson www.andyrobinson.com

    16 September 2025, 7:00 am
  • 28 minutes 47 seconds
    264 Disempowered to Empowered: Meltdowns, Boundaries & Donuts

    Disempowered to Empowered: Meltdowns, Boundaries & Donuts

    In this heartfelt episode, Patricia (she/her) shares three powerful personal stories that highlight the challenges—and wins—that come with being a sensitive, creative, neurodivergent human. From navigating family dynamics around living arrangements, to reclaiming power after a disempowering volunteer experience, and even exploring the emotional depth behind a simple craving for an apple fritter, Patricia offers an intimate and validating glimpse into what it's like to be an AuDHDer who feels things deeply—and still chooses to show up.

    KEY TAKEAWAYS

    · You don't need to justify your needs. "They don't have to understand why I need two months. I just do."

    · High masking + high empathy often = emotional invisibility. You're not alone if you feel overlooked or undervalued.

    · Internalizers often seem fine while falling apart inside—naming your pain out loud is a radical act of self-love.

    · Disempowerment doesn't mean you're weak. It often comes from past trauma, sensory overload, or lack of support.

    · Communication isn't always immediate. It's okay if clarity or assertiveness comes a day (or three) later.

    · There's no such thing as "too sensitive"—just systems that weren't built for your needs.

    HIGHLIGHTS

    · Patricia emphasizes the importance of asserting one's needs without feeling apologetic.

    · She shares her experience of feeling disempowered in family dynamics and how she navigated that.

    · The conversation highlights the challenges of communication in relationships, especially for neurodivergent individuals.

    · Patricia discusses the significance of volunteering and how it contributes to her sense of empowerment.

    · She reflects on the internal struggles (and unrealistic desire) of wanting others to understand her needs without explicit communication.

    · The importance of processing emotions and taking time to understand one's feelings is emphasized.

    · Patricia shares her journey of finding strength in her volunteering experience with horses.

    · She discusses the impact of trauma on her ability to communicate effectively.

    · The conversation touches on the theme of sensitivity being a unique aspect of one's identity, not something to apologize for.

    · Patricia encourages listeners to embrace their sensitivity and understand its value.

    SOUND BITES

    "I need to have a meltdown."

    "It's my responsibility."

    "I felt seen and I felt heard."

    "I think we've learned to just detach from our feelings, to dissociate, and go along to get along—but it just doesn't work for us anymore."

    SENSITIVITY IS NOTHING TO APOLOGIZE FOR; IT'S HOW YOUR BRAIN IS WIRED

    You are not broken. You were shaped by systems that weren't built for you. You deserve rest, joy, and support exactly as you are.

    TOPICS COVERED

    · Autistic meltdowns & internal regulation: How Patricia recognized an impending meltdown and advocated for space and support.

    · Family boundaries & accommodation: The emotional toll of giving up a beloved workspace, and the grief that often goes unseen.

    · Losing & reclaiming joy: When creative hobbies fade and space feels scarce, how do you reconnect with yourself?

    · Assertiveness without apology: Speaking up about needs, even when it's hard, awkward, or overdue.

    · Feeling invisible in groups: Disempowerment during horse volunteer training and the journey to feeling confident and capable again.

    · Processing delays & trauma: Why it sometimes takes days to realize something didn't feel okay—and that's valid.

    · The donut story (yes, it matters): What a pastry can teach us about needs, unmet expectations, and healthy communication.

    · Relational repair & emotional safety: The delicate dance of vulnerability, misunderstanding, and being met with care.

    · The problem with people-pleasing: When masking and fawning keep you from honoring your own feelings.

    · What sensitivity really means: Reframing neurodivergent traits as strengths, not flaws.

    PODCAST HOST

    Patricia (she/her) was a Licensed Clinical Social Worker for over 17 years, but she is now exclusively providing coaching. She knows what it's like to feel like an outcast, misfit, and truthteller. Learning about the trait of being a Highly Sensitive Person (HSP), then learning she is AuDHD with a PDA profile, OCD and RSD, helped Patricia rewrite her history with a deeper understanding, appreciation, and a sense of self-compassion. She created the podcasts Unapologetically Sensitive and Unapologetically AuDHD to help other neurodivergent folks know that they aren't alone, and that having a brain that is wired differently comes with amazing gifts, and some challenges. Patricia works online globally working individually with people, and she teaches Online Courses for neurodivergent folks that focus on understanding what it means to be a sensitive neurodivergent. Topics covered include: self-care, self-compassion, boundaries, perfectionism, mindfulness, communication, and creating a lifestyle that honors you

    Patricia's website, podcast episodes and more: twww.unapologeticallysensitive.com

    LINKS

    To write a review in itunes:

    1. click on this link https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/unapologetically-sensitive/id1440433481?mt=2
    2. select "listen on Apple Podcasts"
    3. chose "open in itunes"
    4. choose "ratings and reviews"
    5. click to rate the number of starts
    6. click "write a review"Website--www.unapologeticallysensitive.com

    Facebook-- https://www.facebook.com/Unapologetically-Sensitive-2296688923985657/

    Closed/Private Facebook group Unapologetically Sensitive-- https://www.facebook.com/groups/2099705880047619/

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

    Youtube-- https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCOE6fodj7RBdO3Iw0NrAllg/videos?view_as=subscriber

    Tik Tok--https://www.tiktok.com/@unapologeticallysensitiv

    Podcast UnapologeticallyAuDHD-- https://unapologeticallysensitive.com/unapologeticallyaudhd/

    e-mail-- [email protected]

    Show hashtag--#unapologeticallysensitive

    Music-- Gravel Dance by Andy Robinson www.andyrobinson.com

    2 September 2025, 7:00 am
  • 25 minutes 27 seconds
    263 Friendship, Boundaries, and Other Olympic Sports for Autistic Brains

    Friendship, Boundaries, and Other Olympic Sports for Autistic Brains

    Patricia gets real about friendship challenges, navigating communication mismatches, and how OCD and autistic wiring can shape our relationship expectations. She shares a behind-the-scenes peek into her new podcast project, the insecurities that surfaced while collaborating with her co-host, and how unexpected moments of validation reminded her that what she brings to the table is more than enough.

    HIGHLIGHTS

    · Patricia plans to release the podcast bi-monthly to avoid burnout.

    · Insecurities can arise when starting new projects, but validation helps.

    · Everyone has unique strengths, even when they feel insecure about them.

    · Communication in friendships can be challenging, especially for neurodivergent individuals.

    · It's important to recognize that others' actions are not always about us.

    · Self-reflection is can be helpful in understanding relationships.

    · Sharing experiences can have a profound impact on listeners.

    · Validation from others can remind one of the importance of one's work.

    · It's okay to change and evolve over time, both personally and professionally.

    · Setting boundaries is essential for maintaining comfort and well-being.

    SOUND BITES

    · "It's not about me."

    · "It's okay for things to change."

    · "What I have to share is enough."

    · "You're not for everybody and everyone's not for you."

    · "Reliability, plans, and clear communication are high values of mine and they calm my nervous system."

    · "We can't know what we don't know."

    SENSITIVITY IS NOTHING TO APOLOGIZE FOR; IT'S HOW YOUR BRAIN IS WIRED

    You are not broken. You were shaped by systems that weren't built for you. You deserve rest, joy, and support exactly as you are.

    CHAPTERS (please add time for addition of introduction)

    00:00 Introduction and Podcast Changes

    01:30 Navigating Insecurities and Trusting Strengths

    05:30 Friendship Dynamics and Communication

    09:14 Self-Reflection and Personal Growth

    14:23 Validation and Impact of Sharing Experiences

    21:17 Recognizing and Embracing Strengths

    PODCAST HOST

    Patricia Young (she/her) was a Licensed Clinical Social Worker for over 17 years, but she is now exclusively providing coaching. She knows what it's like to feel like an outcast, misfit, and truthteller. Learning about the trait of being a Highly Sensitive Person (HSP), then learning she is AuDHD with a PDA profile, OCD and RSD, helped Patricia rewrite her history with a deeper understanding, appreciation, and a sense of self-compassion. She created the podcasts Unapologetically Sensitive and Unapologetically AuDHD to help other neurodivergent folks know that they aren't alone, and that having a brain that is wired differently comes with amazing gifts, and some challenges. Patricia works online globally working individually with people.

    LINKS

    To write a review in itunes:

    1. click on this link https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/unapologetically-sensitive/id1440433481?mt=2
    2. select "listen on Apple Podcasts"
    3. chose "open in itunes"
    4. choose "ratings and reviews"
    5. click to rate the number of starts
    6. click "write a review"

    Website--www.unapologeticallysensitive.com

    Facebook-- https://www.facebook.com/Unapologetically-Sensitive-2296688923985657/

    Closed/Private Facebook group Unapologetically Sensitive-- https://www.facebook.com/groups/2099705880047619/

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

    Youtube-- https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCOE6fodj7RBdO3Iw0NrAllg/videos?view_as=subscriber

    Tik Tok--https://www.tiktok.com/@unapologeticallysensitiv

    e-mail-- [email protected]

    Show hashtag--#unapologeticallysensitive

    Music-- Gravel Dance by Andy Robinson www.andyrobinson.com

    19 August 2025, 7:00 am
  • 32 minutes 56 seconds
    262 Breaking Down Internalized Ableism

    Breaking Down Internalized Ableism

    Summary

    In this conversation, Patricia explores the concept of internalized ableism, particularly among neurodivergent individuals. She discusses how societal stigma and expectations can lead to negative self-perceptions and feelings of inadequacy. Patricia shares personal experiences and insights on how internalized ableism manifests in various aspects of life, including relationships, self-acceptance, and the pressure to conform to neurotypical standards. She emphasizes the importance of unlearning these hurtful beliefs and embracing one's neurodivergent identity with compassion and understanding.

    HIGHLIGHTS

    · Internalized ableism is the unconscious adoption of negative beliefs about oneself due to societal stigma.

    · Neurodivergent individuals often feel pressure to conform to neurotypical standards, which can lead to trauma.

    · Resting is a valid need and should not be seen as a failure.

    · Asking for accommodations is essential for well-being and should not induce guilt.

    · The concept of 'high functioning' can be harmful and does not reflect true capabilities.

    · Time agnosia is a common experience for neurodivergent individuals.

    · Self-compassion is crucial in overcoming internalized ableism.

    · Relationships can be affected by the fear of being a burden.

    · Unlearning internalized ableism involves recognizing and challenging societal expectations.

    · Embracing neurodivergence includes acknowledging strengths and practicing self-acceptance.

    115 SPECIFIC POINTS DISCUSSED

    1. How internalized ableism shows up in everyday life

    o Masking, pushing through burnout, or feeling "lazy" when you're resting.

    2. Messages we absorbed growing up

    o From school, parents, peers, or media about being "too much," "distracted," "weird," or "wrong."

    3. Perfectionism and people-pleasing as survival

    o How needing to be "better" or "easy to manage" is often rooted in internalized shame.

    4. The trap of "not disabled enough" or "faking it"

    o How we invalidate our own struggles because we don't "look" stereotypically disabled.

    5. ADHD, autism, OCD & "high-functioning" narratives

    o The myth of being "high functioning" and how it reinforces ableist expectations.

    6. Feeling guilt for needing accommodations or rest

    o That voice that says "you're being difficult" when you ask for what you actually need.

    7. Shame around executive dysfunction

    o Struggling to start tasks, follow through, or manage time — and blaming yourself.

    8. Rejecting your own needs to fit in

    o Forcing eye contact, avoiding stimming, hiding rituals, not using noise-canceling headphones in public, etc.

    9. The pressure to be "independent" all the time

    o How internalized capitalism + ableism equates needing support with being a failure.

    10. Comparing yourself to neurotypical peers

    · Especially in productivity, relationships, or emotional regulation.

    11. "If I can do it sometimes, I should always be able to" myth

    · Inconsistent ability = inconsistent worth? Nope. Talk about spoon theory and fluctuating capacity.

    12. How OCD-specific traits are misunderstood or mocked

    · And how that seeps into how you see yourself (e.g., feeling "crazy," "irrational," or "a burden").

    13. Internalized ableism in dating & relationships

    · Fear of being too much, too emotional, or too rigid — and minimizing yourself as a result.

    14. How healing looks like reclaiming your needs unapologetically

    · Self-accommodation, boundaries, rest, and neurodivergent joy as rebellion.

    15. Relearning self-compassion and identity pride

    · Ending with hope: unmasking, connecting with community, and defining success on your own terms.

    SOUND BITES

    · "Rest is resistance."

    · "You are not broken."

    · "You deserve rest, joy, and support."

    SENSITIVITY IS NOTHING TO APOLOGIZE FOR; IT'S HOW YOUR BRAIN IS WIRED

    You are not broken. You were shaped by systems that weren't built for you. You deserve rest, joy, and support exactly as you are.

    CHAPTERS (please add time for addition of introduction)

    00:00 Understanding Internalized Ableism

    02:40 The Impact of Societal Expectations

    05:31 Navigating Personal Experiences with Internalized Ableism

    08:18 The Struggle for Accommodations

    10:55 Executive Dysfunction and Inconsistent Abilities

    14:01 The Pressure of Productivity

    16:53 Feeling 'Not Enough' in Neurodivergence

    19:43 Unlearning Internalized Ableism

    22:27 Building Self-Compassion and Acceptance

    PODCAST HOST

    Patricia was a Licensed Clinical Social Worker for over 17 years, but she is now exclusively providing coaching. She knows what it's like to feel like an outcast, misfit, and truthteller. Learning about the trait of being a Highly Sensitive Person (HSP), then learning she is AuDHD with a PDA profile, OCD and RSD, helped Patricia rewrite her history with a deeper understanding, appreciation, and a sense of self-compassion. She created the podcast Unapologetically Sensitive to help other neurodivergent folks know that they aren't alone, and that having a brain that is wired differently comes with amazing gifts, and some challenges. Patricia works online globally working individually with people, and she teaches Online Courses for neurodivergent folks that focus on understanding what it means to be a sensitive neurodivergent. Topics covered include: self-care, self-compassion, boundaries, perfectionism, mindfulness, communication, and creating a lifestyle that honors you

    LINKS

    Rest Is Resistance: Free yourself from grind culture and reclaim your life by Tricia Hersey.

    Neurodivergent Online Course-- https://unapologeticallysensitive.com/neurodivergent-online-courses/

    Receive the top 10 most downloaded episodes of the podcast-- https://www.subscribepage.com/e6z6e6

    To write a review in itunes:

    1. click on this link https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/unapologetically-sensitive/id1440433481?mt=2
    2. select "listen on Apple Podcasts"
    3. chose "open in itunes"
    4. choose "ratings and reviews"
    5. click to rate the number of starts
    6. click "write a review"

    Website--www.unapologeticallysensitive.com

    Facebook-- https://www.facebook.com/Unapologetically-Sensitive-2296688923985657/

    Closed/Private Facebook group Unapologetically Sensitive-- https://www.facebook.com/groups/2099705880047619/

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

    Youtube-- https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCOE6fodj7RBdO3Iw0NrAllg/videos?view_as=subscriber

    Tik Tok--https://www.tiktok.com/@unapologeticallysensitiv

    e-mail-- [email protected]

    Show hashtag--#unapologeticallysensitive

    Music-- Gravel Dance by Andy Robinson www.andyrobinson.com

    5 August 2025, 7:00 am
  • 21 minutes 31 seconds
    261 Some Challenges in Neurodivergent Communication

    Some Challenges in Neurodivergent Communication

    Summary

    In this episode, Patricia discusses the challenges faced by AuDHDers and other neurodivergent individuals in communication, particularly regarding lack of responding to messages. She explores the concept of internalized ableism and how it affects self-perception and interactions. Patricia shares personal experiences and insights on the importance of flexibility in relationships and the need for authenticity in communication. The conversation emphasizes the struggles of neurodivergent individuals, including executive functioning challenges, and the significance of self-acceptance and understanding in navigating social situations.

    HIGHLIGHTS

    It's not uncommon for neurodivergent individuals to struggle with responding to messages.

    · Internalized ableism can affect how we perceive our struggles.

    · Flexibility in relationships is helpful for understanding each other's challenges.

    · People often have their own timeframes for communication.

    · It's important to give ourselves permission to not always follow plans.

    · Authenticity in communication can foster better relationships.

    · Neurodivergent individuals often attract other neurodivergent friends and partners with similar experiences.

    · Comparison can lead to feelings of inadequacy among neurodivergent individuals.

    · Being open about our struggles can help others feel validated.

    · Sensitivity is a natural part of being neurodivergent and should be embraced.

    SOUND BITES

    "I have so much room for that."

    "We have a hard time taking breaks."

    "It's hard for me to not compare."

    SENSITIVITY IS NOTHING TO APOLOGIZE FOR; IT'S HOW YOUR BRAIN IS WIRED

    · You have a right to be joyful, forgetful, ableist, non-ableist, stimmy, non-stimmy.

    · You're not for everyone. Everyone's not for you.

    · It's okay to push through.

    · It's okay to rest.

    It's okay to compare.

    · It's okay to trust that how you show up in the world is fine and all you have to do is be you and who is meant to be in your life will be there and the people that aren't, will drop away.

    CHAPTERS

    00:00 Navigating Communication Challenges

    06:35 Understanding Internalized Ableism

    11:39 The Struggles of Neurodivergence

    17:24 The Importance of Authenticity in Relationships

    PODCAST HOST

    Patricia Young, she/her was a Licensed Clinical Social Worker for over 17 years, but she is now exclusively providing coaching. She knows what it's like to feel like an outcast, misfit, and truthteller. Learning about the trait of being a Highly Sensitive Person (HSP), then learning she is AuDHD with a PDA profile, OCD and RSD, helped Patricia rewrite her history with a deeper understanding, appreciation, and a sense of self-compassion. She created the podcast Unapologetically Sensitive, and Unapologetically AuDHD to help other neurodivergent folks know that they aren't alone, and that having a brain that is wired differently comes with amazing gifts, and some challenges. Patricia works online globally working individually with people, and she teaches Online Courses for neurodivergent folks that focus on understanding what it means to be a sensitive neurodivergent. Topics covered include: self-care, self-compassion, boundaries, perfectionism, mindfulness, communication, and creating a lifestyle that honors you

    LINKS

    Neurodivergent Online Course-- https://unapologeticallysensitive.com/neurodivergent-online-courses/

    Receive the top 10 most downloaded episodes of the podcast-- https://www.subscribepage.com/e6z6e6

    Sign up for the Newsletter-- https://www.subscribepage.com/y0l7d4

    To write a review in itunes:

    1. click on this link https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/unapologetically-sensitive/id1440433481?mt=2
    2. select "listen on Apple Podcasts"
    3. chose "open in itunes"
    4. choose "ratings and reviews"
    5. click to rate the number of starts
    6. click "write a review"

    Website--www.unapologeticallysensitive.com

    Facebook-- https://www.facebook.com/Unapologetically-Sensitive-2296688923985657/

    Closed/Private Facebook group Unapologetically Sensitive-- https://www.facebook.com/groups/2099705880047619/

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

    Youtube-- https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCOE6fodj7RBdO3Iw0NrAllg/videos?view_as=subscriber

    Tik Tok--https://www.tiktok.com/@unapologeticallysensitiv

    e-mail-- [email protected]

    Show hashtag--#unapologeticallysensitive

    Music-- Gravel Dance by Andy Robinson www.andyrobinson.com

    29 July 2025, 7:00 am
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