Healing Through Writing

In this special crossover episode, we’re sharing Episode 3 of cosmic cheer squad—our new podcast from the Positive Disintegration Network. Chris and Bee are joined by a very special guest: Emma Nicholson, co-host of Positive Disintegration, for an in-person, around-the-table conversation recorded in Madison, Wisconsin.Together, they reflect on:* How they became friends and collaborators through the theory of positive disintegration* The idea of cosmic pockets as a way to hold intense feelings until it’s safe to process them* Inner critics, intrusive thoughts, and how to rewrite old narratives* Parenting yourself while raising others* Emotional trampolines, anti-cults, and resisting illegitimate authority* Why the Gravitron might be the perfect metaphor for developmentPlus: Bee’s legendary toffee, Aussie accent jokes, trench coat metaphors, and the beginnings of a truly cozy counterculture.💫 It’s part reunion, part origin story, and all heart. Come sit with us.Links from this episodeFind Emma online:* Tragic Gift (blog)* Adults with Overexcitabilities (YouTube)* Adults with Overexcitabilities (Facebook group)* Positive Disintegration (Instagram)We referenced:* Cosmic Pocket* Sneaky StimmingPositive Disintegration:* Episode 33: A Personal Journey of Self-Discovery, with David Sweeney* Episode 37: Self-Directed Education with Marni Kammersell This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.positivedisintegration.org/subscribe

In Episode 75, Chris and Emma were joined by Gordon Smith, a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, Coach, and Creative from Gifted and Growing in Asheville, NC. Together, they explore how community, creativity, and authenticity support the journey of positive disintegration.Gordon shares how his rediscovery of giftedness helped him make sense of his life and deepen his work with clients. The conversation dives into the challenges of unmasking in front of others—especially family—and how the safety of group spaces can empower people to become more fully themselves. Gordon introduces his unique group offerings and the powerful “Magnum Opus” exercise that facilitates self-discovery through poetry and flow state.This episode touches on key Dabrowskian themes, including the transformation of internalized shame, the shedding of masks, the role of community in personal growth, and how creative practices support authenticity. We reflect on how our disintegrations have unfolded and offer heartfelt encouragement for listeners on their journeys.Topics Include:* Gordon’s journey back to giftedness and the theory of positive disintegration* The importance of self-knowing and depathologizing difference* Creating safe spaces for unmasking and self-expression* Using creativity and community to support growth* Reflections on grief, parenting, and nervous system healing* How discovering language for our experiences can be transformativeResources from this episode* Visit Gordon’s website: Giftedandgrowing.org* Gordon Smith, LPC (Facebook)* More about Yunasa Connect with us* Positive Disintegration on Substack* Visit the Dabrowski Center website* Facebook* Instagram* The Positive Disintegration YouTube Channel* Adults with Overexcitabilities group on Facebook* The Tragic Gift blog by Emma* Email us at [email protected]* Please consider donating to the Dabrowski Center, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit.* Find Positive Disintegration MerchIf you enjoyed this episode on Apple or Spotify, please remember to click on the stars and leave a rating or write a review. Thank you! This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.positivedisintegration.org/subscribe

Episode 74 includes Part 2 of our very first in-person podcast special. After years of collaborating across continents, Chris and Emma finally sat down together face-to-face in Madison, Wisconsin. In this spontaneous, laughter-filled continuation, we’re joined by Bee Mayhew and Pam Ryan for a warm and off-the-cuff conversation about friendship, imagination, healing, and what it really means to be ourselves.In this episode:* The power of community and co-regulation for people who’ve long felt “too much”* What happens when deep thinkers stop masking and start mirroring each other* A kitchen full of neurodivergent magic and mirroring* Finding safety, resonance, and spiritual alignment in community* From shared values to shaping new realities—how our friendships have become frameworksWe reflect on how much we’ve grown, how much we’ve healed, and how profoundly we’ve changed by allowing ourselves to show up as our true selves, together.Big news: Chris and Bee have launched a brand new podcast together—✨ cosmic cheer squad ✨ Visit cosmic cheer squad on SubstackFollow @cosmiccheersquad on InstagramIt’s a show blending resistance, storytelling, transformation, and soul-friend energy.Links from this episodeBee’s Substack:* Pragmagination Pam’s groups on Facebook:* Rogue Valley Brainery & Ludoteca* Voodoodleydooers Connect with us* Positive Disintegration on Substack* Visit the Dabrowski Center website* Facebook* Instagram* The Positive Disintegration YouTube Channel* Adults with Overexcitabilities group on Facebook* The Tragic Gift blog by Emma* Email us at [email protected]* Please consider donating to the Dabrowski Center, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit.* Find Positive Disintegration MerchIf you enjoyed this episode on Apple or Spotify, please remember to click on the stars and leave a rating or write a review. Thank you! This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.positivedisintegration.org/subscribe

Welcome to a very special episode of Positive Disintegration! For the first time ever, Chris and Emma sat down together in person to record—not virtually, not over Zoom or SquadCast, but face to face in the heart of Madison, Wisconsin. In this warm and unscripted special, we reflect on our friendship, the podcast’s evolution, and the joy (and awkwardness!) of finally being in the same room after three years of collaboration.In this episode:* Behind-the-scenes stories from Emma’s trip to the U.S.* Meeting Michael Piechowski and getting hosted with tea and cookies* Visiting the Henry Vilas Zoo, hanging out with James, Jason, and Jack—and, of course, the infamous hound dog, Champ* Reflections on growth, healing, and laying new paths* Creating the Positive Disintegration Network and dreaming forward into 2025* How their work and friendship have evolved over years of podcasting together* Early glimpses of new projects: cosmic cheer squad and PDA: Resistance and Resilience✨ This is part one of a two-part special to our listeners—an intimate conversation full of laughter, reflection, and visioning for what’s next.Links from this episodeTragic GiftAdults with OverexcitabilitiesUpcoming podcasts Chris mentioned:The cosmic cheer squad podcast is coming soon with Bee Mayhew from pragmaginationPDA: Resistance & Resilience is coming later this spring with Marni Kammersell from Wandering BrightlyConnect with us* Positive Disintegration on Substack* Visit the Dabrowski Center website* Facebook* Instagram* The Positive Disintegration YouTube Channel* Adults with Overexcitabilities group on Facebook* The Tragic Gift blog by Emma* Email us at [email protected]* Please consider donating to the Dabrowski Center, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit.* Find Positive Disintegration MerchIf you enjoyed this episode on Apple or Spotify, please remember to click on the stars and leave a rating or write a review. Thank you! This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.positivedisintegration.org/subscribe

In episode 72, Chris and Emma talked with Dr. Lil Jedynak—a memoir writing coach, multi-potential creative, and gifted adult—who helps people tell their life stories through the lens of autoethnography.Lil shares her journey of self-discovery, from uncovering her giftedness at 60 to finding new frameworks for understanding her life, such as Dąbrowski’s Theory of Positive Disintegration. We explore how writing became a tool for her healing, integration, and personal growth and how she now guides others on their own storytelling paths.We dive into:* How early experiences of invisibility, perfectionism, and cultural expectations shaped Lil’s understanding of her giftedness.* The role of autoethnography in making sense of one’s life story and deepening self-awareness.* The interplay between tall poppy syndrome, perfectionism, and the fear of failure.* The power of embracing past struggles as part of personal development.* How creativity, intuition, and personal reflection help gifted individuals integrate their complex identities.* Alternative ways to process and express self-discovery beyond writing.This conversation is full of insight into the lived experience of positive disintegration and how we can turn our personal narratives into sources of strength. Whether you love to write or prefer other forms of self-expression, there are many ways to make meaning of your story. Join us for an inspiring discussion that celebrates authenticity, creativity, and the art of storytelling.Resources from this episode* Website: drlilconsults.com* Substack: Lil’s Substack* Lil’s session from DC2024 on YouTube: Fame and FragilityJoin us at the 2025 International Symposium on Autoethnography and NarrativePeople mentioned:Lotte van Lith — A Lot of Complexity & Episode 9 Jennifer Harvey Sallin — InterGifted & Episode 23Sheldon Gay — I Must Be BUG'N Pod & Episode 63Books mentioned:* Living with Intensity – Susan Daniels & Michael M. Piechowski* Personality Shaping Through Positive Disintegration – Kazimierz Dabrowski* Bright Adults: Uniqueness & Belonging Across the Lifespan – Ellen Fiedler* Writing as a Way of Healing – Louise DeSalvoConnect with us* Positive Disintegration on Substack* Visit the Dabrowski Center website* Facebook* Instagram* The Positive Disintegration YouTube Channel* Adults with Overexcitabilities group on Facebook* The Tragic Gift blog by Emma* Email us at [email protected]* Please consider donating to the Dabrowski Center, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit.* Find Positive Disintegration MerchIf you enjoyed this episode on Apple or Spotify, please remember to click on the stars and leave a rating or write a review. Thank you! This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.positivedisintegration.org/subscribe

*Content Warning: This episode contains a discussion about suicide, which may be distressing to some listeners. Click here for resources.In episode 71, Chris and Emma continue the conversation with Dr. Stacey Freedenthal, a suicidologist, therapist, author, and professor at the University of Denver. In this second installment, we delve deeper into the complexities of suicidality, exploring chronic suicidal thoughts and the stigma surrounding suicide. We talk more about what to say and what not to say to someone who is suicidal and how to support those in emotional pain. Stacey shares valuable insights and practical resources for those navigating these challenging experiences. Chris and Emma reflect on their personal journeys and the power of connection in moments of despair. This candid discussion provides essential perspectives for anyone seeking to better understand suicide, reduce stigma, and foster compassion.Resources from this EpisodeSpeaking of SuicideStaceyFreedenthal.comHelping the Suicidal Person: Tips and Techniques for Professionals (book for professionals)Loving Someone with Suicidal Thoughts: What Family, Friends, and Partners Can Say and Do (book for laypeople)Frank King, A Matter of Laugh or Death (YouTube)r/SuicideWatch (Reddit)ChronicSuicideSupport.comAlternatives to SuicideWarmLineWildflower AllianceLive Through ThisChris’s story on Live Through This (Interview date: February 26, 2015, Denver, CO)Connect with usPositive Disintegration on SubstackVisit the Dabrowski Center websiteFacebookInstagramThe Positive Disintegration YouTube ChannelAdults with Overexcitabilities group on FacebookThe Tragic Gift blog by EmmaEmail us at [email protected] consider supporting the podcast to help fund this work through the Dabrowski Center, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.Find Positive Disintegration MerchIf you enjoyed this episode on Apple or Spotify, please remember to click on the stars and leave a rating or write a review. Thank you! This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.positivedisintegration.org/subscribe

*Content Warning: This episode contains a discussion about suicide, which may be distressing to some listeners. Click here for resources. In episode 70, Chris and Emma talk with Dr. Stacey Freedenthal, a suicidologist, therapist, author, and professor at the University of Denver. We discuss the deeply important but often stigmatized topic of suicide. This is part one of a two-part series that explores the intersection of suicide and Dabrowski’s theory of positive disintegration, offering listeners tools for empathy and connection in the face of despair.Stacey shares her personal journey with suicidality, the experiences that led her to dedicate her career to this work, and the insights she’s gained through her research, teaching, and practice.Together, we explore the stigma surrounding suicidal thoughts, the ways people can hide their pain, and how well-intentioned responses often fall short. Stacey emphasizes the need for what she calls “brave listening”—creating a safe space for honest conversations without judgment or quick fixes. Chris and Emma also reflect on their own experiences and share perspectives on navigating these tough but crucial discussions.Resources from this episodeSpeaking of Suicide StaceyFreedenthal.com Helping the Suicidal Person: Tips and Techniques for Professionals (book for professionals)Loving Someone with Suicidal Thoughts: What Family, Friends, and Partners Can Say and Do (book for laypeople)A Suicide Therapist’s Secret Past (NY Times article mentioned, behind paywall. Click for PDF)Stacey mentioned the following image from her book’s cover.We mentioned Episode 8: Surviving DisintegrationThomas Joiner’s Interpersonal Theory of Suicide (Wikipedia)Connect with usPositive Disintegration on SubstackVisit the Dabrowski Center websiteFacebookInstagramThe Positive Disintegration YouTube ChannelAdults with Overexcitabilities group on FacebookThe Tragic Gift blog by EmmaEmail us at [email protected] consider supporting the podcast to help fund this work through the Dabrowski Center, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.Find Positive Disintegration MerchIf you enjoyed this episode on Apple or Spotify, please remember to click on the stars and leave a rating or write a review. Thank you! This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.positivedisintegration.org/subscribe

In episode 69, Chris and Emma talked with Lian Brook-Tyler, shamanic healer, teacher of unity, podcaster, and co-founder of the Be Mythical podcast. In this rich and wide-ranging conversation, we dive into the intersections of mysticism, neurodivergence, spirituality, transformation, and awakenings—connecting these profound experiences to Dabrowski’s theory of positive disintegration. We explore:* How neurodivergence can shape mystical and spiritual experiences.* The connection between shamanic practices, inner work, and positive disintegration.* The importance of doing the work of inner transformation and embracing the unknown.* The parallels between psychological and spiritual frameworks in understanding human development.Lian’s mythical journey truly began when she was ruptured open to Spirit with the sudden death of her father—which led to her mysteriously recovering from 15 years of chronic pain, panic attacks and anxiety. That inexplicable transformation inspired her to leave a leadership role in the corporate world to immerse herself in discovering what creates pain and struggle, and conversely, how to create a life overflowing with love, magic, beauty and truthLian also shares how her work at Be Mythical, together with co-founder Jonathan Wilkinson, supports old souls and visionaries on initiatory journeys of self-discovery, using myth and ancient wisdom to find purpose and truth. Their work, Be Mythical, is an alchemy of ancient ways for modern days. It weaves together eclectic wisdom teachings and natural traditions such as rewilding, magic and animist spirituality, embodiment, and self-illumination into a soul-led, heart-centred, sovereign path of reclaiming your wildness, actualising your deepest gifts, to live fully and die complete.Here is the Tree of Life image Lian discussed during the episodeLinks from this episodeBe Mythical websiteBe Mythical podcastBe Mythical episodes we mentioned:* “Over-excitability”: A more truthful and constructive perspective on neurodivergence? (episode with Chris)* How to know if you're really "Doing The Work"? Sara J. Sanderson interviews Lian Brook-Tyler Positive Disintegration Episode 29: The Disintegrating DuckCourses: https://www.bemythical.com/godeeperFree fb group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1694264587546957Fb page: https://www.facebook.com/bemythicalYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@BeMythicalInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/be.mythical/Moonly Newsletter: https://www.bemythical.com/moonlyConnect with usPositive Disintegration on SubstackVisit the Dabrowski Center websiteFacebookInstagramThe Positive Disintegration YouTube ChannelAdults with Overexcitabilities group on FacebookThe Tragic Gift blog by EmmaEmail us at [email protected] consider supporting the podcast to help fund this work through the Dabrowski Center, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.Find Positive Disintegration MerchIf you enjoyed this episode on Apple or Spotify, please remember to click on the stars and leave a rating or write a review. Thank you!Tuesday, December 10, 2024, is Colorado Gives Day. Please consider donating to the Dabrowski Center, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, and help support the Dabrowski Congress, other events, and our archive. This year, a generous anonymous donor has pledged to match gifts up to $2,500 USD. Thank you for supporting our work! This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.positivedisintegration.org/subscribe

In episode 68, Chris and Emma debriefed about Chris’s session from NAGC 2023 titled “Overexcitabilities and Dąbrowski’s Theory: Correcting the Course in Gifted Education.” We covered the five common myths or misunderstandings about the theory of positive disintegration that were addressed in the presentation. We’ve been sitting on this episode because we didn’t have time to get it out right after last year's conference. Michael’s episode was the priority following NAGC 2023 since his 90th birthday was approaching. We were also concerned that we had shared so many posts about NAGC in the lead-up to the conference that people might be burned out on the topic—but now, we are ready to share!Highlights00:02:13 Debriefing about the conference00:03:50 Previous sessions from Chris at NAGC00:07:22 Positive impact of the 2022 OE panel session00:10:02 Myth 1: There is little or no empirical evidence for TPD00:14:54 Myth 2: TPD is a theory of giftedness00:24:27 Myth 3: Overexcitability can only be understood within the context of positive disintegration00:28:43 We do still need the theory as a non-pathologizing framework00:35:27 Myth 4: Overexcitability and openness to experience are the same thing, and the five-factor model can replace TPD00:39:45 Myth 5: Overexcitability can be differentiated from ADHD and autism00:44:50 There's no clear line of demarcation for types of neurodivergence and OE. 00:48:08 Best practices for working with overexcitability00:52:58 Main takeaways from the session00:56:49 We care a lotWe hope you’ll enjoy this episode! We’re releasing it ahead of NAGC 2024 in Seattle. Chris submitted no proposals this year and looks forward to attending NAGC without presenting for once. They feel it’s worth repeating this material from last year instead. Links from this episodeClick here for the download Chris shared at NAGC with slides and relevant papers.View the post NAGC 2023: Overexcitabilities and Dąbrowski’s Theory from November 2023.The song “We Care a Lot” by Faith No More (1985), for those who are unfamiliar. It was mentioned during this exchange at the end of the episode.Connect with usPositive Disintegration on SubstackVisit the Dabrowski Center websiteFacebookInstagramThe Positive Disintegration YouTube ChannelAdults with Overexcitabilities group on FacebookThe Tragic Gift blog by EmmaEmail us at [email protected] consider supporting the podcast to help fund this work through the Dabrowski Center, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.Find Positive Disintegration MerchIf you enjoyed this episode on Apple or Spotify, please remember to click on the stars and leave a rating or write a review. Thank you! This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.positivedisintegration.org/subscribe

In episode 67, Chris and Emma were joined by Caitlin Hughes from the Divergent Dialogues podcast. Caitlin is an accredited mental health social worker and founder of Cathartic Collaborations, a neurodivergent-affirming private practice based in Brisbane, Australia.We dive deep into the complexities of multi-exceptional neurodivergent identities, the journey of self-discovery, and the importance of embracing our differences. We discussed the theory of positive disintegration as a liberating framework that offers an alternative to the pathology paradigm. Here are some highlights from our conversation:* The Power of Self-Understanding: Caitlin shares their personal journey of late diagnosis as an AuDHD PDAer, highlighting the profound impact this had on their self-perception. We talked about the importance of understanding ourselves and how this knowledge can lead to a transformative process of healing and self-acceptance. Our identities are multifaceted, and embracing our unique neurotypes can empower us to live authentically.* Depathologizing Difference: One of the core themes of our conversation is the need to depathologize neurodivergent experiences. Caitlin discusses how societal narratives often frame neurodivergent traits as deficits rather than strengths. By embracing neurodivergent identities and advocating for a more inclusive understanding, we can create spaces where individuals feel seen and validated. * The Role of Sensual Giftedness: Caitlin introduces the concept of sensual giftedness and how it plays a significant role in their practice. They explain how processing emotions and experiences through sensory modalities can lead to deeper healing. This perspective is particularly enlightening for those of us who may have felt misunderstood or marginalized due to our sensory sensitivities. Caitlin's insights remind us that our unique ways of experiencing the world can be powerful tools for growth and self-discovery.(Please note that at 23:44, Caitlin said granite when they meant to say “graphite” when referring to diamonds and granite).Caitlin uses their intersectional lived experience to therapeutically support neurocomplex & neuroqueer folks. They utilize somatic therapeutic modalities to support clients to heal systemic trauma and embrace their unique neurotype, strengths, and differences, empowering them to build a self-defined life of meaning and purpose. Caitlin has a Facebook group called "Neurodivergent Affirming Social Workers Collective" where they want to inspire and support other Social Workers to grow in their neurodivergent affirming practice. Caitlin is co-host of "Divergent Dialogues" a neurodivergent affirming podcast and blog on Substack which explores a blend of current research, lived and professional experience. Caitlin is currently completing a PhD with a strong interest in qualitative research in the area of autistic mental health.Links from this EpisodeCathartic CollaborationsDivergent Dialogues on SubstackEpisode 25: Multi-exceptionality, Overexcitabilities and Positive Disintegration with Chris and EmmaSocial media: @cathartic.collaborations (on Facebook and Instagram)Neurodivergent Affirming Social Workers Collective on Facebook2024 Dabrowski Congress videos (available for $15 USD)Head Office, Making Sense of My Mind (Emma’s video)Mellow Out by Michael M. Piechowski is the book Chris recommended about overexcitabilities and personal growthBring Me the Horizon — Mantra (song on YouTube)InterGifted Hearing Voices NetworkExcerpt from Fragments from the Diary of a Madman by CieninMr. Sparkle (fun behind-the-scenes fact: this was in reference to a Mr Sparkle t-shirt Emma was wearing during recording!)Connect with usPositive Disintegration on SubstackVisit the Dabrowski Center websiteFacebookInstagramThe Positive Disintegration YouTube ChannelAdults with Overexcitabilities group on FacebookThe Tragic Gift blog by EmmaEmail us at [email protected] consider supporting the podcast to help fund this work through the Dabrowski Center, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.Find Positive Disintegration MerchIf you enjoyed this episode on Apple or Spotify, please remember to click on the stars and leave a rating or write a review. Thank you! This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.positivedisintegration.org/subscribe