ADHD Media Narratives & Misinformation: What's Really Happening?
The Hidden 20%
Dropping the 'Disorder' Label
Tony argues against medicalising neurotypes, calling for language change and social models over pathology.
In this episode, Ben is joined by Dr Tony Lloyd, former CEO of the ADHD Foundation, for a conversation that steps back and looks at the bigger picture of neurodiversity at a moment when the landscape is rapidly changing.
Now retired, Tony reflects on decades at the forefront of ADHD and neurodiversity advocacy, and why we’re still asking the wrong questions.
They explore why more people are recognising themselves than ever before, and the tension between medical models and the idea of thinking differently.
From SEND systems and long waiting lists to public narratives and stigma, Tony shares what he believes still isn’t working and where real progress is happening.
This is a conversation about where we are now, what needs to change, and why the future of neurodiversity may look very different to its past.
Join us at hidden20.org/donate.
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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
00:00 Introduction
1:03 The Current Neurodiversity Landscape: ADHD, Autism & Society
3:50 The Global Neurodiversity Identity Crisis Explained
5:50 “We Are Everywhere”: The Rise of Neurodivergent Voices
9:44 The Future of Neurodiversity: Why People Are No Longer Hiding
20:02 Medical Model vs Neurodiversity: Disorder or Difference?
27:00 SEND System & ADHD/Autism Reports: What’s Broken?
32:10 Why Neurodiversity Should Be Seen as Opportunity, Not Deficit
42:03 De-stigmatising ADHD & Autism: What Gives Tony Hope
48:06 ADHD & Autism Waitlists: Advice for Those Still Waiting
50:18 The Role of Neurodivergent Public Figures & Advocacy
55:16 Regressive Narratives vs Being Yourself: Courage & Kindness
1:02:22 Dr Tony Lloyd’s Green Dot Badge
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
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Website: www.hidden20.org
Instagram / TikTok / Youtube / X: @Hidden20charity
Ben Branson @seedlip_ben
Tony Lloyd
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.
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