Late Autism Diagnosis in Leadership: Why Nature Helps Neurodivergent Brains

Executive Director at the RSPB, Emma Marsh, joins Ben for a conversation that connects leadership, late autism diagnosis, and the often-overlooked role of nature in how we regulate and function.

Diagnosed autistic in 2023, Emma reflects on what it means to navigate senior leadership as an autistic woman, the decision to disclose at work after years of masking, and how that moment reshaped both her identity and the way she leads.

Ben and Emma dive into the power of nature and how fundamental it is for neurodivergent brains. From birdsong and the dawn chorus to simple ways of reconnecting with the natural world, Emma explains why nature can feel like a reset for the nervous system in ways modern environments often can't.

They also explore why so many workplaces still unintentionally exclude neurodivergent people - and what it looks like to move beyond awareness into systems that actually support people and their brains.

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

The Hidden 20% is a charity founded by AuDHD entrepreneur, Ben Branson.

Our mission is simple: To change how the world sees neurodivergence.

No more stigma. No more shame. No more silence.

1 in 5 people are neurodivergent. That’s 1.6 billion of us - yet too many are still excluded, misunderstood, or left without support.

To break the cycle, we amplify voices, challenge myths, and keep showing up. Spotlighting stories, stats and hard truths. Smashing stereotypes through honest voices, creative campaigns and research that can’t be ignored.Every month, over 50,000 people turn to The Hidden 20% to feel safe, seen and to learn about brilliant brains.

With your support, we can reach further, grow louder, and keep fighting for the 1 in 5 who deserve more.

Join us at hidden20.org/donate.

Become a monthly donor.

Be part of our community where great minds think differently.

Brought to you by charity The Hidden 20% #1203348

______________

Follow & subscribe…

Website: www.hidden20.org

Instagram / TikTok / Youtube / X: @Hidden20charity

Ben Branson @seedlip_ben

Emma Marsh RSPB LinkedIn

http://www.rspb.org.uk/

If you'd like to support The Hidden 20%, you can buy a "green dot" badge at https://www.hidden20.org/thegreendot/p/badge. All proceeds go to the charity.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.