Nourishing Neurodivergence Podcast

In this episode, host Sam sits down with Jackie Silver, RD, founder of Jackie Silver Nutrition, to discuss neurodiversity-affirming nutrition care for people with ADHD, autism, and other neurodivergent identities. Jackie shares her journey from working with Special Olympics athletes to building a specialized practice supporting neurodivergent clients across the lifespan. This conversation is packed with practical strategies, compassionate approaches, and real talk about making eating easier and less overwhelming.Key Topics CoveredJackie's journey from Special Olympics nutrition to specializing in neurodivergent careCommon challenges: executive functioning barriers, sensory aversions, hunger/fullness recognition, digestive issues, and night eating patternsNeurodiversity-affirming approach: respecting safe foods, no forced eating, weight-inclusive carePractical meal planning strategies: the "list of five" method, paradox of choice, batch cooking, one-pot mealsEmbracing convenience foods without shame and understanding how they can be a powerful tool for nourishment (including being nutrient dense!)Gentle ways to add variety The benefits of moving away from diet cultureHow and why it is important to neutralize the language you use around foodQuick yet nourishing meal ideasResources MentionedBlog: Free resources on neurodivergent nutrition topicsFree Download: Neurodivergent Grab and Go Food List (includes simple meal and snack ideas organized by food category)Connect with Jackie SilverWebsite: jackiesilvernutrition.comInstagram: @accessible.wellnessConnect with SamWebsite: www.unmasked-nutrition.comInstagram: @sammib.nutritionDisclaimer: This episode is for educational purposes only. This episode is not a replacement for individualized medical care from a registered dietitian or any other medical professional.

Join us for an eye-opening conversation with Angela Griffith, "The Christian Sexpert," as we explore the intersection of sex, intimacy, and neurodivergence. Angela shares practical strategies for navigating neurodivergence in the bedroom, challenges harmful sexual scripts society has normalized, and explains why communication is the foundation of satisfying intimate relationships. Whether you're neurodivergent or neurotypical, this episode offers valuable insights for creating a more fulfilling sex life. Key Topics CoveredThe 13 types of intimacy (sex is only one!)Managing ADHD symptoms during sexPractical sensory accommodations in the bedroomSexual scripts we need to unlearnConflict as a form of intimacy and the difference between fighting and healthy disagreementHow to start conversations about sex when it feels awkwardReceiving neutral feedback without taking it personallyConnect with AngelaWebsite: TheChristianSexpert.comSocial Media: @TheChristianSexpert (all platforms)Connect with SamWebsite: www.unmasked-nutrition.comInstagram: @sammib.nutritionDisclaimer: This podcast episode is for educational purposes only. This is not a replacement for nutrition counseling, medical nutrition therapy or any form of medical care from a licensed medical professional.

In today's episode, Sam sits down with Sam Mitchell who shares his journey from people-pleasing teenager to successful podcast host and nonprofit leader. We dive deep into the misconceptions surrounding autism, the employment crisis facing the autistic community, and why representation matters. Sam opens up about his decision at age 16 that changed everything, the challenges of entrepreneurship as a neurodivergent person, and what he wishes people understood about the autism spectrum.Key Topics DiscussedThe turning point at 16: How Sam stopped people-pleasing and found his authentic selfAutism Rocks and Rolls: Building a podcast and nonprofit from the ground upEmployment discrimination: Why 85% of autistic adults are unemployed and the rise of neurodivergent entrepreneurshipLanguage matters: The shift from "non-verbal" to "non-speaking" and why it's importantMedia representation: What the new autism Barbie gets wrong (and what's missing from mainstream portrayals)The spectrum reality: Breaking down the harmful stereotype that all autistic people are "mentally 3 years old"Entrepreneurship challenges: Wearing all the hats, building a board, and maintaining structure as a neurodivergent business ownerConnect with Sam MitchellPodcast: Autism Rocks and Rolls (available on all major podcast platforms)Search tip: Look for "Autism Rocks and Rolls" (not just "Sam Mitchell" - there's a basketball player with the same name!)Connect with Sam (RD and Pod Host)Want to work with Sam or a dietitian on her team? Click hereWebsite: www.unmasked-nutrition.comInstagram: @sammib.nutritionDisclaimer: this episode is for educational purposes only. This episode is not a replacement for medical nutrition therapy provided by a registered dietitian or medical care provided by a licensed medical provider.

In this episode, Sam sits down with former attorney and mom of three Laura Schiller who shares her unexpected journey from a mental hospital to writing a memoir. She discusses living with bipolar disorder and ADHD, breaking free from perfectionism, and why she's choosing to be "loud and proud" about mental health.Topics CoveredUnexpected mental health crisis and the difficult process of accepting a bipolar disorder diagnosisWhat it looks like to be living a stable life with bipolar disorder (4 years and counting) Busting myths about bipolar disorderHow her ADHD diagnosis changed everythingBreaking the comparison trap and social media perfectionismWriting "Finding Flos" while managing ADHDWhy everyone has their hard, and why finding community and sharing mattersConnect with Laura: Facebook: Laura Greenberg SchillerInstagram: @findingflawsomeBook release: Spring 2026Connect with Sam:Website: www.unmasked-nutrition.comInstagram: @sammib.nutritionDisclaimer: This episode is for educational purposes only. This episode is not a replacement for nutrition counseling/medical nutrition therapy provided by a registered dietitian or any medical care provided by any other medical professional.

In this episode, Sam sits down with occupational therapist Stephanie Ford to explore how understanding our unique processing styles can transform the way we navigate daily life. Stephanie breaks down the intricate connections between sensory processing, emotional awareness, and nervous system responses, and why behavior is never just one thing.Key Topics Covered:How occupational therapy's whole-person approach reveals the "why" behind behaviorsThe critical connection between sensory processing and emotional regulationUnderstanding all four nervous system responses: fight, flight, freeze, AND fawnWhy the fawn response is particularly common in people who mask (especially women with ADHD/autism)How our tolerance levels shift based on sleep, nutrition, stress, and daily experiencesPractical regulation strategies that actually work in real-world situationsThe power of habit stacking and external prompts for remembering coping toolsWhy asking "why?" with compassion changes everythingConnect with Stephanie Ford: Website: Action ForwardFacebook: @stephanieford.actionforwardInstagram: @stephanieford_actionforwardConnect with Sam: Work with a neuro-affirming dietitian on the Unmasked Nutrition team!Website: www.unmasked-nutrition.comInstagram: @sammib.nutritionDisclaimer: This episode is for educational purposes only. This episode is not a replacement for nutrition counseling/medical nutrition therapy provided by a registered dietitian or any other medical services provided by any other medical provider.

In this episode, Sam welcomes James McCambridge, founder of Rewire Neurodynamics, to discuss the intersection of neurodivergence, movement, and the nervous system. With over 22 years of experience working with high performers in gymnastics, circus, film, and theater, as well as individuals managing pain and chronic conditions, James shares his journey from aspiring rockstar to expert in brain-based movement.Key Topics Covered:James’s personal story: from music dreams to gymnastics coaching and discovering the power of the nervous system.Why the brain and nervous system are central to movement and overall health.The importance of “nowness” and immediate feedback in neurodivergent experiences with movement.How traditional fitness advice often overlooks neurodivergent needs and why “one-size-fits-all” doesn’t work.The role of sensory processing, executive function, and body signals in shaping our relationship with exercise.Why small, sustainable changes can be more effective than overwhelming routines.The science (and limitations) of research on movement, and why self-experimentation is crucial.The value of hand-based movement and activities for brain health.How to start moving again if you feel disconnected, overwhelmed, or avoidant of exercise.The importance of tuning into your own body and testing what works for you.Connect with James McCambridge:Instagram: @rewire_ndWebsite & Email List: rewirend.com (Sign up for weekly tips, videos, and book recommendations)Connect with Sam: Website: www.unmasked-nutrition.comInstagram: @sammib.nutritionDisclaimer: This episode is for educational purposes only. This episode is not a replacement for nutrition counseling, medical nutrition therapy, or any other medical care from a medical professional.

In this powerful and candid episode, Sam sits down with Taylor Malajati, a proud, neurodivergent, queer woman of color and passionate advocate for body liberation and accessibility. Taylor shares her lived experiences navigating the world in a larger body, living with ADHD and an eating disorder, and the impact of diet culture and weight stigma on her journey to self-acceptance.Key Topics Discussed:Taylor’s personal story and what led her to body liberation advocacyThe nuances of “small fat,” “large fat,” and privilege within the fat communityThe intersection of eating disorders, weight stigma, and medical biasThe impact of GLP-1 medications and the complexities of health narrativesAccessibility challenges in everyday life, from clothing to public spacesThe importance of fat community, support groups, and finding belongingReframing health as a moral value and rejecting the “good fat” narrativePractical ways to support fat friends and create more inclusive spacesResources & Ways to Connect with Taylor: Connect with Taylor and the AVL Fatties community: @avlfattiesTaylor’s Instagram: @malajabodyBook mentioned: “What We Don’t Talk About When We Talk About Fat” by Aubrey GordonConnect with Sam: Unmasked NutritionSam's IG: @sammib.nutritionDisclaimer: This episode is for educational purposes only. This episode is not a replacement for medical nutrition therapy from a registered dietitian or any other medical care rendered by a medical provider.

In this episode, Sam sits down with Haleigh Culverhouse to explore the Enneagram, an ancient personality system that goes far beyond typical personality tests. They dive deep into all nine types, debunk common misconceptions, and discuss how understanding your Enneagram type can transform your relationships, work, and personal growth.Key Topics Discussed: What is the enneagram? Plus an overview of all nine types that make it upCommon misconceptions about each type How the enneagram can help you manage stress, grow and better understand yourselfHow the enneagram can hold a mirror up to better understand your blind spots and unique wiringsHow the enneagram is helpful for navigating personal and professional relationshipsWhere to start if you are interested in learning more!Resources Mentioned:Assessment Tool: iEQ9Books:The Road Back to You by Ian KronThe Complete Enneagram: 27 Paths to Greater Self-Knowledge by Beatrice ChestnutPodcast: The Enneagram 2.0 with Beatrice ChestnutConnect with HaleighHaleigh's Practice: Human to the FullestInstagram: @human.to.the.fullestTikTok: @HaleighColeEmail: [email protected] with SamReady to work with a neuro-affirming dietitian? Click hereInstagram: @sammib.nutritionDeclaimer: This episode is for educational purposes only. This episode is not a replacement for individual medical nutrition therapy provided by a registered dietitian or any other medical services provided by a medical professional.

In this episode, Sam sits down with Melissa Berger CPCC, ACC, founder of the Thriving With Autism program, to discuss the realities of parenting an autistic child, navigating a late autism diagnosis, and building a supportive community for neurodivergent families.Key Topics Covered:Melissa’s personal journey: From her daughter’s late autism diagnosis at 16 to building a thriving support systemUnderstanding masking, meltdowns, and the emotional rollercoaster of parenting through an autism diagnosisPractical coping strategies for parents and teens, including creative solutions like car rides for regulationThe importance of self-care for parents of autistic children (and why it’s more than just bubble baths!)How to find reliable autism resources and avoid information overloadBuilding your autism parenting village: coaching, community, and supportDebunking common autism misconceptions and embracing neurodiversityEmpowering autistic kids: focusing on progress, not comparisonConnect with Melissa:Download Melissa’s free Meltdown Workbook: meltdownworkbook.comLearn more about Melissa’s coaching and support programs: melissakberger.comConnect with Sam:Learn more about working with Sam or a dietitian on her team: www.unmasked-nutrition.comConnect on IG: @sammib.nutritionDisclaimer: This episode is for educational purposes only. This episode is not a replacement for individualized nutrition counseling provided by a registered dietitian or any other medical care rendered by a medical provider.

In this episode, Sam welcomes Ashley Sterkin, fractional COO and founder of Hive Ambition, for a heartfelt conversation about the power of community. Ashley shares her journey from scaling tech startups to building a supportive space for ambitious women who want to grow their businesses, without sacrificing their wellbeing.What You’ll Hear in This Episode:Ashley’s story: from tech COO to community builder and why motherhood changed her priorities + the inspiration behind Hive AmbitionWhy community is the most underrated tool and how it can transform your entrepreneurial journeyThe challenges of “doing it all” and redefining what it means to be an independent womenThe importance of boundaries, vulnerability, and support for sustainable business and personal growthReal talk on social media, comparison, and the value of in-person connectionAshley’s advice for anyone feeling isolated or overwhelmedConnect with Ashley & Hive Ambition:Website: hiveambition.comInstagram: @hiveambitionEmail: [email protected] with SamReady to work with a dietitian that understands your neuro-type? Visit our website: www.unmasked-nutrition.comClaim your 14 day free trial to Unmasked Meal Prep Connect on IG: @sammib.nutritionEnjoyed this episode?Please subscribe, rate, and review, this will help us reach more people just like you! Share with a friend who needs to hear this episode:)For more episodes and resources, visit www.unmasked-nutrition.comDisclaimer: This episode is for educational purposes only. This episode is not a replacement for nutrition counseling, medical nutrition therapy or other medical care provided by a registered dietitian or other medical professional.