Lighting The Blue Touch Paper Of Understanding

Matt Gupwell joins Joanne Lockwood to unpack what he means by “lighting the blue touch paper of understanding”: giving people enough grounded knowledge about neurodiversity to start better conversations, rather than trying to turn a one-hour session into instant expertise.

Matt shares his own late-diagnosis journey, including living for decades without a formal explanation for how his brain worked, the impact of ADHD, and the later recognition of autism and dyslexia. He speaks candidly about depression and suicidal ideation, the barriers to assessment and support, and how a private diagnosis and medication changed his day-to-day reality.

The conversation also turns to workplaces: why employers shouldn’t try to “spot” neurodivergence, what awareness training and employee support pathways can do, and how small, often low-cost adjustments can improve working life for everyone.

Finally, Matt challenges popular narratives he believes can be harmful, including the “superhero” framing and the way “masking” is discussed, arguing instead for clearer, more honest self-advocacy and practical communication about needs, strengths and struggles.