Chris Packham on Neurodiversity, Safe Spaces & Finding Solace in Nature

Описание: Broadcaster, naturalist, and conservationist Chris Packham has helped millions connect with the wonders of wildlife through shows like BBC’s Springwatch. But behind the camera, his story is one of finding refuge, both in the natural world and within himself.

In this deeply personal conversation, Chris opens up about his childhood in Southampton, his autism diagnosis in his forties, and the unique ways he has designed his home to manage sensory sensitivities, including furniture and artwork that are intentionally uncomfortable.

He reflects on the balance between solitude and loneliness, and how nature offers safety, structure, and healing when life feels overwhelming.

This episode explores comfort in discomfort, refuge and resilience, and what it truly means to feel at home in the world.

Recorded in person at Chris Packham’s home in the New Forest.

To hear more from us:
Instagram: @homingwithmatt
TikTok: @homing.with.matt
Contact: Email us at [email protected]

For more content and exclusive walking tours:
Patreon:   / homingwithmatt  

Matt Gibberd’s book, A Modern Way to Live, is available here: https://www.penguin.co.uk/books/32017...

Music by @simeonwalkermusic
Identity & design by @lena.winkler.creative.office
Produced by @podshoponline

Timestamps:
00:00:00 Introduction to Chris Packham and Autism
00:00:33 Podcast Setup & Episode Overview
00:01:47 Chris’s Early Childhood & Family Home
00:04:02 Bedroom as Refuge
00:07:20 Early Fascination with Wildlife
00:09:39 The Kestrel Story & Impact of Loss
00:14:13 Safe Spaces & Emotional Security
00:17:31 Advice for Parents of Neurodiverse Children
00:21:03 Chris’s Parents & Upbringing
00:24:50 Inherited Trauma & Family Dynamics
00:28:19 Sibling Success & Parental Expectations
00:32:18 Recognition & Motivation
00:34:04 School Experience & Social Challenges
00:34:50 University Life & Coping Mechanisms
00:39:55 Self-Perception & Punk Rock Influence
00:43:08 Managing Autism as an Adult
00:44:50 Mental Health Struggles & Therapy
00:47:18 Television Career Beginnings
00:50:24 Approach to Art & Deep Focus
00:53:23 Living in the New Forest
00:54:47 Relationship with Charlotte & Space
00:57:33 Challenging Art & Home Environment
01:02:59 Sensory Triggers & Environmental Anxiety
01:06:28 Autism Diagnosis & Workplace Adaptations
01:11:24 Comparing Neurodiverse Experiences
01:18:21 Routines, Comfort, and Dogs
01:22:09 Coping with Loss of Pets
01:25:19 Activism & the Gate Explosion
01:27:37 Defining Home & Final Reflections
01:30:51 Outro & Goodbye

To hear more from us:

YouTube: Subscribe to our channel Homing with Matt Gibberd, to watch the video version
Instagram: @homingwithmatt
TikTok: @homing.with.matt
Contact: Email us at [email protected]

For more content and exclusive walking tours:
Patreon:   / homingwithmatt  

Matt Gibberd’s book, A Modern Way to Live, is available here: https://www.penguin.co.uk/books/32017...