EP74. Exploring Daddy Autism:

Описание: In this episode of The Hurt Locker Podcast, Yinka sits down with comedian and writer Joe Wells for an open and honest conversation on a range of mental health experiences that have shaped his comedy and outlook on life as a new dad.

🔓This episode explores:

-The frustrations and challenges Joe faced within school as an autistic learner with OCD, and how therapy and diagnosis have impacted his mental health.

-How Joe's pursuit and involvement in writing and comedy gave him a sense of belonging and an outlet to express himself.

🔓Chapters & Highlights:

00:00 – Intro: The Hurt Locker & welcoming Joe Wells
01:03 – Joe Wells: comedy, writing & autism
03:04 – Becoming a new father & early parenthood
05:35 – Growing up: family, upbringing & school life
06:36 – Political comedy, anger & the state of the world
11:51 – “What’s in your Hurt Locker?” – kindness, cruelty & culture
16:14 – Fatherhood, priorities & redefining success
19:21 – Family reactions & navigating creative success
23:43 – Autism diagnosis: childhood vs adult understanding
27:18 – Finding his tribe: comedy, neurodivergence & belonging
29:48 – School struggles, teachers & early trauma
36:07 – Creativity, art teachers & self-expression
37:39 – Why stand-up comedy matters
40:41 – Tough gigs, bombing & learning from failure
46:31 – Writing career: books, stand-up & creative outlets
48:04 – Publishing a book at 16 & confidence
50:32 – Living with OCD & CBT therapy
53:22 – Mental health awareness then vs now
55:53 – Neurodivergent Moments podcast explained
58:16 – Autism diagnosis debates & overdiagnosis fears
01:00:16 – Most important people in Joe’s life
01:02:01 – Advice to his 9-year-old self
01:03:49 – Closing thoughts & farewell

🔓Mental Health Support

If you are experiencing mental health issues, please do reach out for help - phone 999 for an emergency, or if you would like to speak to someone, call The Samaritans on 116 123.

Please also check out The Hub of Hope to find mental health support in your local area in the UK.

Mental Health Support Network provided by Chasing the Stigma | Hub of Hope
https://hubofhope.co.uk/

🔓Guest information

To find out more about the brilliant Joe Wells, please check out the links below:

Instagram:
  / joewellscomedian  
Website:
https://www.joewells.org.uk/
Facebook:
  / joewellscomic  
YouTube:
‪@joewellscomic‬
Neurodivergent Moments Podcast
https://shows.acast.com/neurodivergen...

The Hurt Locker Podcast-
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🔓 Real stories. Hard truths. Healing starts here.
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Hosted by Yinka Yesufu
Produced by Tim Roe. Courageous Productions

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