Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast Neurotypicals Don't Juggle Chainsaws

Some shows are more than just telly.

They’re our background noise, our wind-down routine, or our way of shutting the world out when it’s all a bit much. In this episode, Nic and Kate chat about comfort shows, why they matter, what counts as one, and how they serve a bigger purpose than people often realise.
Think you’ve got a ‘weird’ comfort show? You’re in good company.

Are you an HSP? 

Highly Sensitive People (HSPs) get a mixed reception in online neurodivergent spaces. 

 Some say it’s just unspoken autism. Others say it’s a valid identity in its own right. 

In this episode, Kate and Nic dig into what being an HSP actually means, whether it's its own neurodivergence, why some HSPs feel in-between and why the "quiet person with a book" isn't always autistic. 

There’s nuance. There’s self-identification. There’s trauma-informed thought, and a healthy dose of “You know yourself better than anyone else. 

What is potential anyway? 

Is it four A grades and an S-Level in English? 
Is it memorising 15 poems, even if you’re a poet who wouldn’t answer a single exam question on your own work? 
Is it going to Oxford? (Or deliberately not going to Oxford?) 

This week’s episode of Neurotypicals Don’t Juggle Chainsaws is about education, potential, class, memory tests, teenage poetry, and why we don’t all peak in Year 11. 

Hands up if you’ve ever apologised for your tone in a three-line email. 
Or assumed a stranger’s silence meant they hate you. 
Or spiralled for hours over a “no.” 

Yep, us too. 

In this episode of Neurotypicals Don’t Juggle Chainsaws, Kate and Nic dig into rejection sensitivity: the life experiences that wire us for it, why it shows up so strongly in neurodivergent folks and what helps. 

If you’ve ever thought “it’s not about you”… but still felt like it was: this one’s for you. 

Is it resilience, or is it just surviving a broken system? 

In this episode of Neurotypicals Don’t Juggle Chainsaws, Kate and Nic are joined by special guest Anna Knight, a former speech therapist turned coach for world-changers (and dungaree-lovers). 

They explore why 'resilience' gets weaponised (especially in schools), what true resilience actually looks like and the liberating power of and. 

There’s also chat about value pie charts, custard mishaps, and the joy of being bluntly honest in neurodivergent relationships. 

Find more from Anna at www.theaudaciousand.com

Can what you wear change how you feel? 

In this episode of Neurotypicals Don’t Juggle Chainsaws, Kate and Nic get into the joy of dopamine dressing, from rainbow trousers and sunflower dungarees to sequins, shiny shoes, and novelty ties. 

There’s talk of goths, grief, rainbows, resistance, and a fair bit about pockets. 

Whether you’re fully sequinned or just testing out a colourful earring, you’re invited. 

This one’s for the animal lovers and the animal needers.

Kate and Nic explore how animals can calm, support, and connect us, especially if you're neurodivergent. From alpaca walks to ex-therapy pets, dog reading, and fox neighbours (yes, really), it’s a warm, funny episode about the very real emotional support that animals can bring.

Includes: cats with opinions, therapy owls, and a red panda with boundaries.

It's time for episode 42.

This one’s about AI...again. But can you blame us? From helping with legal letters and holiday hot tub instructions, to identifying flowers mid-walk and giving specific, heartfelt compliments on funeral outfits, AI’s proving oddly perfect for neurodivergent brains. 

We talk friendship, therapy, ethics, awkward Roman queens, and what happens when AI gets philosophical about the meaning of life (spoiler: it’s still 42). 

In this episode, Kate and Nic talk about death - how we process it (or don’t), how society expects us to react, and why it can feel particularly complex for neurodivergent people.

They cover everything from scripts that don’t land, to overwhelming grief etiquette, to why “I’m sorry for your loss” sometimes just doesn’t cut it.

It’s honest, thoughtful, awkward in places, and quietly funny in others - just like real conversations about death often are.

In Episode 40 of Neurotypicals: Don’t Juggle Chainsaws, we explore the idea that things like truth, justice, and mercy aren’t just abstract ideals, they’re deeply felt emotions for many neurodivergent people.

Kate and Nic reflect on the strong sense of right and wrong that so often shapes autistic identity, activism, and everyday life. From personal ethics to social expectations, this episode gets right into what drives us and why it matters.

In this week’s Neurotypicals Don’t Juggle Chainsaws, Nic and Kate take on the nonsense so you don’t have to. From the latest nonsense to paracetamol panic and vaccine conspiracies, they call out the wildest (and most persistent) myths about the cause of autism.

Expect proper facts, sharp wit, and the kind of laughter you need when the world keeps asking the wrong questions.

🧬 Spoiler alert: it’s genetic.

This week on Neurotypicals Don’t Juggle Chainsaws, Kate and Nic take on the tricky topic of friendship.

What does it mean to be a good friend as a neurodivergent adult? Why is it so hard to make new ones? And is it OK to just want low-maintenance WhatsApp friendships and heated car seats?

Expect honest chat, gentle humour, and some very relatable reflections on energy, expectations, and why being “undemanding” might just be the dream.

In the second part of our special episode with Fergus Murray and Sonny Hallett, we focus on the practical aspects of living as a neurodivergent individual, including the challenges and strategies related to neurodivergent privilege, identity construction, and community support. 

Fergus and Sonny share their insights on creating supportive environments through counselling, advocacy, and mutual aid, which facilitate better understanding and acceptance of neurodivergent identities.

This week, we’re talking memory—and how it can affect relationships, expectations, appointments, and everything in between when you’re neurodivergent.

Kate and Nic explore forgetfulness that’s not personal, missed calendar dates, and why reminders aren’t about assuming incompetence, they’re about care.

We get into prompting culture, inconsistent systems, and how many of us are walking around with brains too full to remember it’s Thursday.

In the final part of our conversation with the brilliant Kieran Rose, we continue exploring the deep stuff—trauma, safety, diagnosis, and the stories that shape how autistic people are seen, treated, and understood. 

We talk about the real impact of unsupported neurodivergence across a lifetime, what’s missing in many professional approaches, and why pushing for understanding isn’t just about “awareness”—it’s about challenging systems. 

Expect compassion, realism, and a healthy dose of challenge to the status quo. Because, as Kieran puts it, you can’t separate autism from the world it exists in—and the stories we tell matter. 

Pain can be hard to describe, hard to measure—and even harder to manage when you’re neurodivergent. 

This week, Kate and Nic dive into the realities of pain, fatigue, and how it shows up (or doesn’t) for autistic people. 

From hot water bottles for your soul to boiling showers, we’re sharing the warmth, the honesty, and a few laugh-out-loud moments along the way.

In the second part of our special with Dr. Amy Pearson, we’re focusing on the practical challenges and societal expectations faced by autistic individuals, particularly autistic women and mothers. 

Dr. Pearson elaborates on the concept of 'masking' and its profound effects on personal and professional life, emphasising the intense pressures and unrealistic standards imposed on autistic mothers. 

This episode sheds light on the need for greater understanding and support for the autistic community, discussing how societal norms and gender roles significantly impact the mental health and well-being of autistic individuals. 

This week on Neurotypicals Don’t Juggle Chainsaws, Kate and Nic take on one of the most persistent—and frankly exhausting—narratives in the world of autism representation: the “superpower” myth.

Is it flattering?

Is it helpful?

Or is it actually just another way of misunderstanding autistic experiences?

From shiny capes and hyperlexia to real-life differences in how we think, learn, and process the world, this episode dives into what gets lost when autism is painted as magical, mysterious, or superhuman.

In this special episode, Nic King is thrilled to welcome Dr. Amy Pearson, an assistant professor at Durham University, who shares her insights into autistic identity, masking, and victimisation among autistic individuals.

Dr. Pearson, a late-diagnosed autistic woman, dives deep into her research and discusses her co-authored book on autistic masking.  

This discussion not only highlights the complexities of autistic experiences but also explores the impact of stigma on identity management within the autistic community. 

LIVE Part 2: The Future Awaits… 

We’re back with the second half of our first-ever live show at Gosforth Civic Theatre!  

This time, we’re looking ahead – to the future of neurodivergent life, support, and understanding.  

What needs to change? What gives us hope? And what do we absolutely not want to see happening? 

Expect deep thoughts and big laughs, plus, some real-time audience reactions and slightly too much honesty, as always. 

This week on Neurotypicals Don’t Juggle Chainsaws, Kate Fox and Nic King wade into a slightly controversial topic—one that’s been on the list for a while but needed just the right moment. That moment is now. 

Yes, you can be autistic and be an a******. 

Just like any other group, we have our fair share of people who display manipulative, toxic, or outright abusive behaviours. And it’s time we talked about it. 

From spotting red flags to understanding why autistic and ADHD people can be more vulnerable to manipulation, this episode tackles the complex dynamics of trust, abuse, and community accountability.  

And, crucially, while every community has one (or several), the vast majority of autistic people are kind, justice-driven, and deeply caring. 

In this episode of Neurotypicals Don’t Juggle Chainsaws, Kate Fox and Nic King finally tackle a topic they’ve been meaning to dive into for ages—autistic-coded characters. And what better way to do it than through Patience, Channel 4’s new show featuring an explicitly autistic protagonist played by autistic actor Ella Maisy Purvis? 

Kate and Nic break down what Patience gets right, where it stumbles, and how it compares to the long history of autistic-coded but never explicitly autistic characters. 

They also dig into the ongoing issue of autistic representation in media. 

LIVE from Gosforth Civic Theatre!

For the first time ever, we took Neurotypicals Don’t Juggle Chainsaws to the stage – and now, you get to hear it too! 

This special episode is all about schools – the good, the bad, and the ‘why is this still happening?!’ From rigid rules to neurodivergent survival tactics, we dive into what works, what doesn’t, and how things could be better.

Expect the usual mix of insight, laughter, and slightly too much honesty – plus, a real-life audience reacting in real-time. Just us, a microphone, and a room full of lovely people.

🎧 Tune in now and relive the chaos!

In this episode of Neurotypicals Don’t Juggle Chainsaws, Kate Fox and Nic King talk about the world of Artificial Intelligence—how it thinks, how it learns, and why Kate feels a surprising kinship with it. 

As monotropic flow takes over, Kate loses all track of time, leading to the inevitable conclusion: this might need a Part 2. 

Tune in and let your pattern-spotting brain process this one! 

Purhcase tickets to see Nic and Kate live at Gosforth Civic Theatre tonight!

https://bit.ly/42QScrq

How do you feel about silence?  

In this episode of Neurotypicals Don’t Juggle Chainsaws, Kate Fox and Nic King dive into the topic of silence, co-regulation, and the very different ways neurodivergent people experience them. 

They explore the role of silence in relationships, whether quiet togetherness can be a form of co-regulation, and why some neurodivergent people find peace in silence while others find it unbearable. 

Plus, if you’d like to experience some live, non-silent co-regulation with Kate and Nic, don’t forget to grab your tickets for their live podcast recording at Gosforth Civic Theatre on March 6th! 

Purchase tickets here:

https://bit.ly/42QScrq

No enforced silence required. 

Join us for Part 2 of the captivating two-part special of Neurotypicals Don't Juggle Chainsaws, where hosts Nic King and Kate Fox continue their enlightening conversation with Jac and Amy from Autism Level UP! 

This episode dives deeper into the concepts of atypical burnout and the unique sensory challenges faced by neurodivergent individuals.  

Our guests share personal insights and professional expertise on navigating sensory environments and advocating for more inclusive practices.  

Don't miss these vital discussions that aim to empower and inform our community and beyond. 

Purhcase tickets to see Nic and Kate live at Gosforth Civic Theatre on the 6th march.

https://bit.ly/42QScrq

Love is in the air—or is it? In this special Valentine's episode of Neurotypicals Don’t Juggle Chainsaws, Kate Fox and Nic King dive into the highs, lows, and neurodivergent realities of Valentine’s Day. 

From love languages and communication styles to the social expectations surrounding romance, they unpack what works (and what doesn’t) for neurodivergent relationships. 

They also challenge the traditional Valentine’s narrative—because love isn’t just about being in perfect alignment, it’s about communication, trust, and understanding each other’s needs (with or without a glittery M&S chocolate bubble bath). 

And if you’re still stuck for Valentine’s date ideas, why not take your loved one to see Kate and Nic LIVE at Gosforth Civic Theatre on March 6th? Nothing says romance like a live neurodivergent podcast recording. 

Purchase tickets here: https://bit.ly/42QScrq

Happy Valentine’s Day—however you choose to spend it! 

Join us for Part 1 of an engaging two-part special of Neurotypicals Don't Juggle Chainsaws, where hosts Nic King and Kate Fox welcome Jac and Amy from Autism Level UP! 

This episode delves into the nuanced world of sensory experiences and empathy within the neurodivergent community.  

Our guests discuss the importance of sensory joy and how different stimuli can be soothing for some and overwhelming for others.  

This conversation not only explores individual sensory needs but also promotes a deeper understanding of how neurodivergent individuals navigate their environments.  

www.neurotypicalsdontjugglechainsaws.co.uk 

www.autismlevelup.com 

In this episode of Neurotypicals Don’t Juggle Chainsaws, Kate Fox and Nic King discuss the complexities of behaviour as communication. 

Building on insights from previous episodes, they unpack how neurodivergent behaviours are often misinterpreted through neurotypical lenses and how ingrained behaviourist views can lead to oversimplified assumptions. 

With a mix of personal anecdotes and sharp observations, this episode highlights the importance of challenging conventional narratives and advocating for deeper, more empathetic approaches to understanding neurodivergent experiences.

www.neurotypicalsdontjugglechainsaws.co.uk 

Welcome back to the second half of our special guest episode of Neurotypicals Don’t Juggle Chainsaws!  

We continue our deep dive into monotropism with our incredible guests, Tanya Adkin and David Gray-Hammond. 

In this part, Tanya and David share powerful personal stories and insights about how lived experiences have shaped their understanding of autistic suffering, trauma, and recovery. 

From navigating atypical burnout to overcoming systemic failures in social care and mental health, their journeys illustrate the resilience and resourcefulness required to thrive as neurodivergent individuals in a neurotypical world. 

www.neurotypicalsdontjugglechainsaws.co.uk 

Welcome back to Neurotypicals Don’t Juggle Chainsaws! Kate Fox and Nic King dive into a thought-provoking topic for this episode on how we rank aspects of our identity and where neurodivergence lands on the list. 

Ultimately, this episode underscores the fluidity and context-dependency of identity, while encouraging you to embrace your lists—whatever they may be—and explore what feels most authentic in each moment. 

Your identity list doesn’t need to follow a fixed order, and it’s okay for it to change depending on where you are and who you’re with. 

www.neurotypicalsdontjugglechainsaws.co.uk 

Welcome to this special two-part episode of Neurotypicals Don’t Juggle Chainsaws! Today, Kate Fox and Nic King are joined by two incredible guests: Tanya Adkin of ND Social Care and David Gray-Hammond of Emergent Divergent.  

Together, they dive into the fascinating world of monotropism, exploring concepts like the monotropic split and meerkatting, and how these ideas connect to the lived experiences of autistic people. 

This episode offers a blend of professional insights, lived experiences, and relatable moments as Tanya and David bring their expertise and humanity to the discussion. 

www.neurotypicalsdontjugglechainsaws.co.uk 

Welcome to the first Neurotypicals Don’t Juggle Chainsaws episode of 2025! 🎉 Kate Fox and Nic King and Kate Fox kick off the year by tackling the big, sparkly elephant in the room—New Year’s resolutions. Is the "New Year, New You" mantra really compatible with neurodivergent experiences? 

This episode questions whether resolutions need to be about grand reinventions or whether they can simply be about embracing self-acceptance, rejecting societal expectations, and creating joy on your own terms. 

There is an upcoming live recording at Gosford Civic Theatre on the 6th March —a chance to meet the community and share experiences. 

Happy New Year! Let’s take it one day at a time, neurodivergent style.  

www.neurotypicalsdontjugglechainsaws.co.uk 

In this insightful episode of Neurotypicals Don’t Juggle Chainsaws, Kate Fox and Nic King delve into the concept of glimmers—those small, joyous moments that bring warmth, peace, and a restorative boost to your energy. As the counterpart to triggers, glimmers are key indicators of activities and experiences that replenish your spoons, offering a way to navigate the demands of life. 

This episode is a gentle reminder to embrace the quirky, random joys in life and to honour what works for you. Whether you’re uncovering your niche or enjoying the small moments, this podcast might just be one of those glimmers for you. 

www.neurotypicalsdontjugglechainsaws.co.uk 

In this festive episode of Neurotypicals Don’t Juggle Chainsaws, Kate Fox and Nic King explore the joys, pressures, and sensory overloads of the Christmas season. They discuss how traditions, like making Christmas puddings or decorating with familiar scents, can evoke vivid memories—both comforting and challenging—and how to navigate the associated emotions. Nick shares her journey of letting go of traditions that no longer serve her, while Kate advocates for a "Christmas audit" to create a season that genuinely works for you. 

Wishing you all a joyful and stress-free holiday season. Merry Christmas from Kate and Nic! 

www.neurotypicalsdontjugglechainsaws.co.uk 

Join us for the first part of an insightful two-part special of Neurotypicals Don't Juggle Chainsaws, where hosts Kate Fox and Nic King engage with special guests Fergus Murray and Sonny Hallett.  

This episode dives into the complex world of monotropism, a theory significantly shaped by Fergus's mother, Dinah Murray.  

Fergus and Sonny, both pivotal in the neurodivergent advocacy and research spheres, share their experiences and the expansive reach of their work—from academic research to practical counselling.  

www.neurotypicalsdontjugglechainsaws.co.uk 

In Episode 22 of Neurotypicals Don’t Juggle Chainsaws, Kate Fox and Nic King dive into “spoon theory” and how it applies to neurodivergent and chronically ill individuals. They break down the concept as “energy accounting,” explaining how each activity—no matter how small—requires energy or “spoons” and why managing these resources is vital. 

Don’t forget to leave us a review and get in touch via www.neurotypicalsdontjugglechainsaws.co.uk 

Join Kate and Nic in this insightful episode as they unpack the complexities of using sunflower lanyards to signal hidden disabilities.

The hosts share candid stories about how wearing the lanyards affects their interactions in crowded and stressful environments. They discuss the challenges of relying on these symbols for support, including the potential for both positive assistance and negative misunderstandings. 

Don’t forget to leave us a review and get in touch via www.neurotypicalsdontjugglechainsaws.co.uk 

Welcome to Part 3 of our exciting four-part special with Kieran Rose, the autistic advocate, exploring the history of autism. 

In this episode, Kieran guides us through a more hopeful era, from the 1960s to the 2000s, discussing progressive shifts in understanding autism.

Highlighting key figures who started to change the game by recognising and valuing autistic experiences more humanely, Kieran also reflects on the growing influence of autistic voices in shaping their narratives through early online communities.

Don’t forget to leave us a review and get in touch via www.neurotypicalsdontjugglechainsaws.co.uk 

In Part 2 of this engaging four-part special, Kieran Rose continues his exploration of autism history with hosts Kate Fox and Nic King, focusing on the mid-20th century to the early 2000s. 

This episode delves into the era's dominant narratives, including the problematic views of behaviourism and other theories that viewed autistic individuals in a less-than-human light. 

Don’t forget to leave us a review and get in touch via www.neurotypicalsdontjugglechainsaws.co.uk

Welcome to the first episode of an exciting four-part special on "Neurotypicals Don't Juggle Chainsaws," featuring special guest Kieran Rose, a distinguished figure in the autistic community.

This episode dives deep into the common misunderstandings and societal narratives that shape how autism is perceived. 

Kieran discusses the harmful impacts of these external observations and stereotypes, advocating for a shift towards a more nuanced and empathetic understanding of the autistic experience.

Don’t forget to leave us a review and get in touch via www.neurotypicalsdontjugglechainsaws.co.uk

Join hosts Nic King and Kate Fox for a Halloween special of "Neurotypicals Don't Juggle Chainsaws”, where they delve into the delights and challenges from a neurodivergent perspective. The duo emphasises that whether you choose to fully engage with Halloween festivities or prefer a quieter night in, what matters most is finding joy and comfort in your own way. They also announce the thrilling news that the podcast will now release new episodes weekly, featuring an array of special guests in upcoming shows. Don’t forget to leave us a review and get in touch via www.neurotypicalsdontjugglechainsaws.co.uk

In episode 19 of Neurotypicals Don't Juggle Chainsaws, hosts Nic King and Kate Fox share a light-hearted conversation about their coffee/tea preferences and how many self-medicate with caffeine. They discuss how we may self-medicate in our daily life without realising and the little things that we require to get through our day as neurodivergent individuals. Don’t forget to leave us a review and get in touch via http://www.neurotypicalsdontjugglechainsaws.co.uk

This time, Nic and Kate talk about how identifying as neurodivergent can profoundly affect one's relationships.

Nic and Kate share their personal experiences and the broader implications of such identifications, discussing the potential for both disruption and enhancement of relationships.

The episode provides a thoughtful look at how neurodivergent individuals can navigate the complexities of relationships.

Don’t forget to leave us a review and get in touch via www.neurotypicalsdontjugglechainsaws.co.uk

It’s time for episode 17 of Neurotypicals Don’t Juggle Chainsaws with Nic King and Kate Fox! In this episode, Nic and Kate discuss the metaphorical kryptonite that can undermine a sense of safety for neurodivergent individuals.

They talk about personal experiences, exploring how the feeling of safety, or lack thereof, deeply affects neurodivergent people and the unique challenges they face in being understood and supported.

The conversation highlights the importance of aligning with others who understand and respect one's needs, and the difficulties that arise when this alignment is missing.

They also touch on the broader implications of safeguarding within the community, emphasising the difference between genuine support and mere surveillance.

This episode offers insightful perspectives on the delicate balance of vulnerability and self-protection in personal and professional settings.

Head to www.neurotypicalsdontjugglechainsaws.co.uk to hear the full episode.

It’s time for episode 16 of Neurotypicals Don’t Juggle Chainsaws with Nic King and Kate Fox!

In this episode, Nic and Kate explore the complexities of perception and the emotional labour involved in 'masking'—concealing one's true self to fit societal norms.

They talk about the revealing process of unmasking and share personal anecdotes about the intersection of identities.

The episode features poignant discussions on the impacts of how others perceive us, opening up broader reflections on authenticity and vulnerability in everyday life.

Head to www.neurotypicalsdontjugglechainsaws.co.uk to hear the full episode.

Nic King and Kate Fox discuss what it's like for people who think differently to be in large crowds. They talk about how different settings, like a small café or a big event, can feel overwhelming and share their own stories about dealing with crowds.

The episode aims to help listeners understand why crowded places can be tough for some and what can be done to make these spaces more comfortable for everyone. Don’t forget to leave us a review and get in touch via www.neurotypicalsdontjugglechainsaws.co.uk

In episode 14 of Neurotypicals Don't Juggle Chainsaws, hosts Nic King and Kate Fox explore the quirky origins of chainsaw juggling and the broader theme of stepping out of your comfort zone.

The conversation evolves into discussing how engaging in unique and unusual activities can bring joy and stretch personal boundaries.

They also touch on the importance of creating safe and accepting spaces for neurodivergent individuals, like circus schools or forest schools, and how these environments support personal growth.

The episode emphasises the value of pursuing passions that might seem unconventional to others but are deeply fulfilling to the individual.

Don’t forget to leave us a review and get in touch via www.neurotypicalsdontjugglechainsaws.co.uk

In episode 13 of Neurotypicals Don't Juggle Chainsaws, hosts Nic King and Kate Fox explore the challenges of asking for special accommodations when you're neurodivergent.

 They discuss how hard it can be to ask for help, whether due to personal fears or difficulties in actually getting the changes you need.

Kate shares her own story about needing a quick adjustment for comfort during a tough day, calling it a "stealth accommodation."

The hosts also talk about the wider issues and misunderstandings that can happen when neurodivergent people try to navigate systems that aren’t always supportive or understanding.

This episode provides a candid look at the real-world struggles and the subtle ways people manage their needs.

Don’t forget to leave us a review and get in touch via www.neurotypicalsdontjugglechainsaws.co.uk

In this episode of Neurotypicals Don't Juggle Chainsaws, hosts Nic King and Kate Fox discuss the challenges of being diagnosed with neurodivergence later in life.

They focus on the common belief that one must be visibly struggling or be struggling in the ‘correct way’ to qualify for a diagnosis or support.

Sharing personal stories and broader societal views, they critique the idea that intense suffering is necessary before one can get help.

The episode emphasises that current medical standards often miss people who don't fit the usual expectations of what struggling looks like, advocating for a broader, more inclusive approach to understanding neurodivergence.

Don’t forget to leave us a review and get in touch via www.neurotypicalsdontjugglechainsaws.co.uk