Episode

ADHD Media Narratives & Misinformation: What's Really Happening?

Podcast
The Hidden 20%
Published
Mar 18, 2026
Duration seconds
3873
Processing state
not_requested
Canonical source
https://shows.acast.com/hidden-20/episodes/adhd-autism-today-the-changing-neurodiversity-landscape-expl
Audio
https://sphinx.acast.com/p/open/s/657b32c48f98e20016664592/e/69b93dd99246d31db4195f29/media.mp3
JSON
/v1/public/podcasts/the-hidden-20-6751677/episodes/adhd-media-narratives-misinformation-what-s-really-happening
Markdown
/podcast/the-hidden-20-6751677/adhd-media-narratives-misinformation-what-s-really-happening.md

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Summary

In this episode, Ben is joined by Dr Tony Lloyd, former CEO of the ADHD Foundation, for a conversation that steps back and looks at the bigger picture of neurodiversity at a moment when the landscape is rapidly changing. Now retired, Tony reflects on decades at the forefront of ADHD and neurodiversity advocacy, and why we’re still asking the wrong questions. They explore why more people are recognising themselves than ever before, and the tension between medical models and the idea of thinking differently. From SEND systems and long waiting lists to public narratives and stigma, Tony shares what he believes still isn’t working and where real progress is happening. This is a conversation about where we are now, what needs to change, and why the future of neurodiversity may look very different to its past. Join us at  hidden20.org/donate . ________ Host: Ben Branson Production Manager: Phoebe De Leiburné Video Editor: James Scriven Social Media Manager: Charlie Young Music: Jackson Greenberg Head of Marketing: Kristen Fuller 00:00 Introduction 1:03 The Current Neurodiversity Landscape: ADHD, Autism & Society 3:50 The Global Neurodiversity Identity Crisis Explained 5:50 “We Are Everywhere”: The Rise of Neurodivergent Voices 9:44 The Future of Neurodiversity: Why People Are No Longer Hiding 20:02 Medical Model vs Neurodiversity: Disorder or Difference? 27:00 SEND System & ADHD/Autism Reports: What’s Broken? 32:10 Why Neurodiversity Should Be Seen as Opportunity, Not Deficit 42:03 De-stigmatising ADHD & Autism: What Gives Tony Hope 48:06 ADHD & Autism Waitlists: Advice for Those Still Waiting 50:18 The Role of Neurodivergent Public Figures & Advocacy 55:16 Regressive Narratives vs Being Yourself: Courage & Kindness 1:02:22 Dr Tony Lloyd’s Green…