This episode explores the role of special interests in the lives of many neurodivergent people and why they can be so much more than hobbies. From deep comfort and regulation to connection, and joy, Dave and Kate look at how passionate interests can shape wellbeing in everyday life.

They also unpack a common misunderstanding: special interests are often judged by how “useful” they seem to other people, but that misses the point. For many neurodivergent people, these interests offer calm, focus, and a place to rest from the complexity of daily life.

If you’d like to support the podcast as it heads toward season three, please visit faithfulgod.net

Wolfberg, P., & Buron, K. D. (Eds.). (2024). Learners on the autism spectrum : preparing educators and related practitioners (Third edition.). Routledge. Pp. 300-303

Bross, L. A., Huffman, J. M., & Hagiwara, M. (2022). Examining the special interest areas of autistic adults with a focus on their employment and mental health outcomes. Journal of Vocational Rehabilitation, 57(3), 289–305. https://doi.org/10.3233/JVR-221218

Grove, R., Hoekstra, R.A., Wierda, M. and Begeer, S. (2018), Special interests and subjective wellbeing in autistic adults. Autism Research, 11: 766-775. https://doi.org/10.1002/aur.1931

Hospitality can feel complicated in families with neurodivergent members, especially when routines, sensory needs, exhaustion, or unexpected changes make “normal” hosting difficult. This conversation explores how Christian hospitality can still be meaningful, flexible, and life-giving without copying what works for someone else.

Neurodiversity In The Family Of God Webinar - https://faithfulgod.net/webinar

Joel Moroney, a neurodivergent Christian man with over 20 years of ministry experience, shares his unique perspective on faith and neurodiversity. Joel is currently working for Jesus Club, which is a Christian group for adults with intellectual disabilities. He is also an advocate for Christian neurodivergent people. In this wide ranging discussion, we discuss the value of diagnosis, strategies for doing church well, and advocating for neurodivergent young people on camps.

Discover more about Jesus Club and how you could start a Jesus Club at your church at jesusclub.org.au.

To find out more about our upcoming webinar and to book tickets, head to faithfulgod.net/webinar

To financially support this podcast, please donate at our GoFundMe page here.

To read helpful articles from Kate, head to her Substack page, An Extraordinary Normal

Dave's Bible story podcasts are called Stories of a Faithful God and Stories of a Faithful God for Kids and can be found wherever you get your podcasts.

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Neurodiversity and the Family of God Webinar

To find out more about the webinar and book tickets, head to faithfulgod.net/webinar