Episode Summary:In this illuminating episode of The Joy of Neurodiversity, host Joy Buckner welcomes therapist and nervous system educator Jill Baumgartner to explore the subtle yet powerful signals our bodies send long before we realize we’re stressed, anxious, or emotionally overloaded. Through the lens of neurodiversity, Jill breaks down the science behind emotional dysregulation, the nervous system, and the emotional toll of masking.
This conversation is a compassionate and practical guide to reconnecting with your body, recognizing the early signs of stress, and embracing self-regulation as a tool for healing. Whether you're neurodivergent yourself or supporting someone who is, this episode is a beautiful reminder that your body’s wisdom is always communicating.
What to Expect:
✅ A clear understanding of what dysregulation looks like in everyday life
✅ How anxiety and nervous system imbalance often fuel one another
✅ The hidden emotional cost of masking and “pushing through”
✅ How cortisol and chronic stress impact physical and mental health
✅ Why walking is one of the most underrated tools for emotional regulation
✅ Practical self-regulation strategies grounded in nervous system science
✅ A celebration of neurodiversity and honoring your unique emotional process
⏱️ Episode Chapters:
00:00 – Introduction to Neurodiversity and Emotional Dysregulation
01:17 – Understanding Dysregulation and Anxiety 🧠
05:55 – Recognizing Signs of Dysregulation
09:13 – The Connection Between Dysregulation and Anxiety🔄
11:54 – The Impact of Masking on Emotional Health 🎭
15:42 – Aha Moments: Realizing Anxiety's Presence 💡
20:00 – Exploring Nervous System States 🌡️
22:32 – Navigating Anxiety and Energy States
25:01 – Understanding the Green Energy State 🌱
29:43 – Neurodivergence and Energy Regulation ⚡
34:02 – Cortisol and Chronic Stress ⏳
39:37 – Strategies for Mental Overactivity 🌀
41:35 – Practical Steps for Self-Regulation 🧘🏾♀️
44:20 – The Importance of Walking for Emotional Regulation 🚶🏽♀️
47:43 – Key Reflections on Neurodivergence and Self-Awareness 🔍
49:24 – Finding Joy in Neurodiversity ✨
51:42 – Celebrating Neurodiversity and Embracing Brilliance
👀 Want to see the conversation unfold and put faces to the voices? Watch the full episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheJoyofNeurodiversity
📬 Connect with Jill Baumgartner:
🌐 Website: https://jillbaumgartnerlcsw.com/
⚖️ Legal Disclaimer:
The views and experiences shared in this podcast are personal and for informational and entertainment purposes only. They do not constitute professional advice. Always seek guidance from a qualified expert for your specific needs.
The Joy of Neurodiversity is a space for open dialogue and shared stories. Take what resonates and explore further with care.
📣 Join the Conversation:If this episode speaks to your journey, share it with someone you love 💌Tag us using #JoyOfNeurodiversity so we can celebrate your brilliance, too. Let’s keep honoring our bodies, our stories, and the wisdom we’ve had all along 💫