Reflection on decades of quiet adaptation leads to practical action for self and family. J.M. Shaw, Canadian fantasy author, recounts how an autism and ADHD diagnosis in her late 30s turned lifelong confusion into understandable difference, and how writing served as both research and emotional regulation from puberty onward.

She covers transferring hard-won strategies to her sons, the persistent shortage of adult neurodivergent supports, and the simple truth that you can learn what does not come naturally. Evergreen insights for anyone still mapping their own operating system.

Timestamps:

06:17 - Why the books began

12:19 - Reading for insight, writing for self

21:25 - Late 30s diagnosis timeframe

31:05 - Neurotypical vs neurodivergent

43:35 - Youth vs adult resource imbalance

52:40 - Encourag ...