Episode 107 (Season 2): Curating Connection: Neurodivergent Communities Online and In-Person

Finding real connection and community as a neurodivergent person can be both beautiful and complicated. We often long for community that gets us, but knowing where to look or how to show up as ourselves can feel uncertain. Having spaces where we feel seen, supported, and not too much isn’t just affirming — it’s important for our well-being.

In this episode, Patrick Casale and Dr. Megan Anna Neff, two AuDHD mental health professionals, discuss the complexities of finding, building, and sustaining community and connection as neurodivergent people. They candidly share personal experiences of seeking meaningful relationships, discuss the unique benefits and pitfalls of digital communities, explore the emotional nuances of online versus in-person connection, and offer practical ideas and resources for those looking to cultivate neurodivergent-positive spaces.

Top 3 reasons to listen to the entire episode:

1. Explore practical ways to find neurodivergent community—whether you're looking for free or paid spaces, online or in-person—and hear ideas for navigating the relational dynamics that help support connection and belonging.
2. Hear honest reflections from Patrick and Megan Anna as they share their own experiences with online engagement, friendship, demand avoidance, and the realities of community burnout. It's a conversation that feels real, relatable, and encouraging.
3. Learn why community matters not just for connection, but for identity, advocacy, and healing. In a world that can be overwhelming and isolating, shared spaces offer protection, meaning, and a way to grow forward together.

If you’ve ever felt worn out but still longed for connection with a community that truly gets you, this episode offers both honest reflection and tangible support. We talk about what it means to find—or help create—spaces of real belonging.

Resources

• THE NOOK: neurodivergentinsights.com/membership
• Autastic: autastic.com/resources-for-bipoc-communities
• NEUROKINDNESS COMMUNITY Waitlist: docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSefQlLquFvaMB7ZY7dkSumrKhtP7WBGQLHAb0Rkfzzy_UN6Gg/viewform
• DIVERGENT CONVERSATIONS UNDERGROUND: divergentconversations.substack.com

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