Trigger warning: This episode includes discussions around friendship challenges, feelings of isolation, and the emotional impact of not being accepted for who you are. While the conversation is uplifting, some listeners may find these themes emotionally sensitive.

In this episode of Your Voice Matters, host Asma Jacob speaks with MissNatasha Connect, an author, digital educator, and passionate advocate for neurodivergent communities. Together, they explore what real, affirming friendship looks like for neurodivergent people.

“Having someone that really accepts you for you, your whole. The light, the dark, the whole shebang that comes with it and supporting us to be ourselves.”

From embracing boundaries to honouring individuality, this conversation invites listeners to reflect on how friendships can become more inclusive, respectful, and empowering. You'll hear both personal reflections and practical advice that centre authenticity and connection.

Key Takeaways:

• True friendship starts with being accepted just as you are, no masking needed.

• Open, honest conversations help build trust and emotional safety.

• Boundaries are not barriers, they’re bridges to healthier relationships.

• It’s okay to ask for what you need in a friendship. Embrace your unique way of thinking and connecting, there is strength in it.

About MissNatasha Connects:

MissNatasha Connects is an author, digital educator, and speaker who is authentically autistic. Mother of two, Auntie to many. She supports education, employment and family organisations to uplift and value the individuals they serve. Through books; organisational strategising sessions, support groups and speaking engagements.

Connect on Instagram: @natashaconnect or @tashas_tees

Learn more about Achievable Journey

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Trigger Warning: This episode includes discussions of isolation, stigma, and the emotional challenges of coming out. Listener discretion advised.

In this episode of Your Voice Matters, Asma Jacob speaks with Andrea Schiff, a proud trans woman, neurodivergent advocate, and creative spirit. Andrea shares her journey navigating life with ADHD and dyslexia while exploring gender identity in a world that often misunderstands both.

Together, they reflect on the power of supportive communities, the need to challenge harmful narratives, and the importance of being truly seen and accepted. This episode celebrates individuality, resilience, and the voices often left unheard.

Key Takeaways from the episode:

• Everyone learns in different ways, neurodivergent experiences deserve understanding, not judgment.
• ADHD can come with strengths like hyper-focus and creativity and these should be celebrated.
• Supportive spaces can make the difference between isolation and empowerment. Changing the narrative around neurodivergence allows people to feel heard, validated, and included.
• Intersectionality matters. Experiences of identity, neurodivergence, and belonging are complex and deserve recognition.

“We don't want to be fighting the world around us. We don't want to be struggling. We don't want to be pointed out. We don't want to be singled out. We just want to fit in. We just want to be loved and appreciated.”

About Andrea Schiff (she/her):

Trans Woman Lesbian Hippie Veteran Neurodivergent ADHD/Dyslexic Theatre and Music Lover Deadhead (grateful dead fan) French & American Pastafarian Ordained Dudeist Priestess Theatre Technical Director Production Coordinator Manager of Fennario, (Grateful Dead tribute band, New England, for hire!) Eastern Massachusetts Single and searching INTP-a SciFi.

Follow Andrea on Instagram: @andrea_buchbinder

Learn more about Achievable Journey.

Follow Your Voice Matters and connect with Asma on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and X.

Remember to subscribe to Your Voice Matters wherever you listen to podcasts!

Share this episode with someone who could benefit from hearing the voice of the SEND and neurodivergent community.

Trigger Warning: This episode explores themes of identity, including autism, gender, and asexuality. It touches on feelings of isolation, confusion, and the emotional impact of not having the language to describe one’s experience. These topics may be sensitive for some listeners. Please listen with care.

In this episode of Your Voice Matters, Asma Jacob speaks with Riko Ryuki, a neurodivergent parent, advocate, and writer, about their journey through autism, gender, and identity. Riko shares how discovering they are agender and asexual helped them feel more whole, and why language and community are so important in the process of self-discovery.

This conversation offers strength, validation, and practical advice for anyone exploring neurodivergence and queerness. Listeners will leave feeling seen, supported, and inspired to embrace their authentic selves.

Key Takeaways from the episode:

• Having the right words matters as they help explain your experience and connect with others.
• Feelings and actions aren’t always aligned and that’s okay.
• There is power in owning your identity, as being yourself brings clarity and strength.
• Safe spaces are essential, find and build communities where you feel free to be you.

“Now I know who I am, I can be me a lot easier. I have the words to describe my experiences. I can connect with other people. I can stop feeling different from others for not understanding who I am. It can make you feel like you're broken or like you're missing something that everyone else has. It's good when you have the words to explain that.”

About Riko Ryuki (they/them):

Riko Ryuki (they/them) is an autistic and PDA-identified parent, writer, and blogger. They are agender, aromantic, and asexual, and proudly has multiple disabilities. Riko writes about PDA, disability, identity, and parenting. They are passionate about creating inclusive spaces for expression and connection. When they’re not writing, Riko enjoys books, cacti, and going to the gym.

Learn more about Achievable Journey.

Follow Your Voice Matters and connect with Asma on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and X.

Remember to subscribe to Your Voice Matters wherever you listen to podcasts!

Share this episode with someone who could benefit from hearing the voice of the SEND and neurodivergent community.