Welcome back to The Touched Out Podcast! I'm your host, Carter, and in today’s episode, we dive into an extraordinary story of late diagnosis and innovation. Joining me is Jo, a remarkable individual who discovered she had autism and ADHD at the age of 50. This life-changing realization led her on a transformative journey, culminating in the creation of Kaiko Fidgets—a business that’s making a significant impact on the lives of neurodiverse individuals.
Jo’s Diagnosis and the Birth of Kaiko Fidgets
Jo’s journey began with a revelation—being diagnosed with autism and ADHD later in life. This diagnosis not only brought clarity to many of the challenges she had faced but also ignited a passion to create something meaningful. Kaiko Fidgets was born out of necessity, inspired by Jo's desire to find effective sensory solutions for her sons, Kai and Kobe, who also struggle with dyslexia and autism. When traditional sensory tools fell short, Jo took matters into her own hands, developing products that have since become essential for many dealing with mental health challenges and self-harm.
Understanding the Complex Dance of ADHD and Autism
In our conversation, Jo opens up about the intricate relationship between ADHD and autism. She discusses the clash between executive function and creativity, the constant struggle with overcommitment, and the painful experience of rejection-sensitive dysphoria. Jo’s candidness about these challenges offers a window into the daily realities of living with both conditions and highlights the importance of self-compassion and understanding.
The Power of Self-Compassion and Shared Experiences
Jo’s story is a powerful reminder that self-compassion and shared experiences can bring comfort and clarity. We talk about how mimicking admired traits and quoting movies can sometimes blur self-identity, making it difficult to understand who we truly are. Jo’s personal anecdotes shed light on these struggles and emphasize the importance of taking time for self-care in a world that often doesn’t understand the neurodiverse experience.
Intersection of Neurodiversity and Socio-Economic Factors
We also explore how neurodiversity intersects with socio-economic factors, particularly how conditions like ADHD can increase vulnerability when combined with poverty. Jo speaks openly about her battles with alcohol addiction and the strategies that have helped her maintain sobriety. This part of the episode delves into the broader implications of neurodiversity, touching on the therapeutic aspects of body modifications and the creation of sensory tools that provide safe alternatives for self-harm.
Innovating for Mental Health: The Evolution of Kaiko Fidgets
Kaiko Fidgets started as a personal endeavor to support Jo’s sons but quickly grew into something much bigger. The shift from event-based sales to an online platform during COVID-19 allowed Kaiko Fidgets to reach a wider audience, meeting the urgent needs of their neurodiverse clientele with same-day shipping. Jo's dedication to her mission is evident in every aspect of her work, from developing new products to creating a supportive community for those who rely on sensory tools for mental health.
Implementing Life Skills Education in Schools
During our conversation, Jo and I discuss the importance of implementing life skills education in schools—things like taxes, cooking, and emotional intelligence. These skills are crucial for neurodiverse individuals, who often find traditional educational paths inadequate. Jo emphasizes that her business, while initially focused on supporting her son Kai, has evolved into a platform for broader change, advocating for the inclusion of these essential life skills in education.
Strategies for Overcoming Addiction and the Importance of Support
Jo also shares personal strategies for overcoming alcohol addiction, highlighting the importance of changing routines and keeping busy to avoid triggers. She talks about the emotional crutch alcohol provided and the challenge of facing the unknown without it. This part of the episode offers practical advice for those dealing with similar struggles and underscores the importance of having a supportive network.
Innovative Solutions for Self-Harm and Mental Health
One of the most powerful segments of our conversation revolves around the creation of sensory tools that help manage self-harm. Jo shares the story of her son Kai’s journey with autism and mental health challenges, including his struggle with self-harm. The development of "wrist spikies," a tool that provides necessary pain relief without breaking the skin, is a testament to the family’s commitment to finding safe and effective solutions. We also explore how these tools are used in broader demographics, including subcultures like body modification and fetish communities.
Jo’s Dedication to Making a Difference
Jo’s journey is not just about creating products; it’s about making a genuine difference in people’s lives. Her dedication to offering helpful information and tools out of a genuine desire to assist others shines through in every interaction. The episode concludes with a mutual sense of gratitude and inspiration, emphasizing the importance of striving to make meaningful changes in our lives.
Key Takeaways
Self-Compassion and Understanding: Jo’s story highlights the importance of self-compassion and understanding in managing ADHD and autism.
Innovation from Necessity: The creation of Kaiko Fidgets underscores how personal challenges can inspire innovative solutions that help many others.
Support Systems Matter: Jo’s journey through addiction and mental health challenges illustrates the critical role of support systems in overcoming adversity.
Advocacy for Life Skills: The need for life skills education in schools is crucial for supporting neurodiverse individuals in navigating the world.
Quotes to Remember
"It’s not just about managing symptoms; it’s about finding ways to thrive and live authentically."
"Our experiences shape us, but they don’t have to define us."
Connect with Jo
If Jo’s story has resonated with you, be sure to check out Kaiko Fidgets and explore the incredible range of sensory tools they offer. Follow Jo’s journey and connect with her on social media to stay updated on new products and initiatives. Visit Kaiko Fidgets
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Conclusion
Jo’s journey from late diagnosis to life-changing innovation is a beacon of hope for anyone navigating the complexities of neurodiversity. Her story is a testament to the power of resilience, self-discovery, and the impact of supportive tools in creating a sense of belonging and well-being. Thank you for joining us on this inspiring episode of The Touched Out Podcast. Let’s continue this journey together.