Ever wondered how to find friends who truly get you—the unfiltered, unapologetic you? If you’re neurodivergent, you know how hard it can be to build authentic friendships without masking or over-explaining.
In this episode of ND Outloud, Danielle Ralston, Tara Neighbors and Shaye Woodward dive into the real challenges and incredible benefits of making neurodivergent besties.
From chaotic conversations and radical acceptance to accountability and life-changing retreats, we’re breaking down what makes ND friendships so powerful—and why they might be the missing piece in your life. Get ready to laugh, relate, and maybe even text your ND bestie after this episode.
Finding friends as an adult is hard—but for neurodivergent adults, it can feel nearly impossible. In this episode of ND Outloud, hosts Danielle Ralston, Shaye Woodward and Tara Neighbors unpack the struggles and wins of building neurodivergent friendships that truly work.
Discover:
✔ Why ND friendships feel different—and why that’s a good thing
✔ How to stop apologizing for being yourself
✔ The power of systems, tools, and body doubling with ND friends
✔ Why in-person connection matters (and how retreats change everything)
✔ The role of ND Hive in creating safe, supportive spaces for ADHD and autistic adults
Whether you’ve been searching for your neurodivergent tribe or want to strengthen the friendships you already have, this episode is packed with insights, laughs, and strategies you’ll love.
Episode Recap:
Building ND friendships isn’t just about finding people like you—it’s about creating safe, judgment-free spaces where you can thrive. Danielle, Tara and Shaye share their personal experiences, practical tools, and lessons from ND Hive retreats that have helped hundreds of adults unmask, connect, and build lifelong friendships.
Key Takeaways:
✔ ND friendships mean zero masking and zero apologies
✔ Systems and reminders help strengthen accountability and support
✔ Virtual and in-person ND communities can transform your mental health
✔ Investing in friendships is investing in your well-being
✔ Creating intentional spaces—like ND Hive—helps ND adults find their people
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