Tourette's Podcast

Let's crack into a mystery. Scientists began to notice it as the pandemic revised our lives -- young people, almost all of them women, started showing up to the doctor in surprising numbers with what looked like Tourette Syndrome. Out of nowhere. No such prior symptoms. The common denominator? They'd all been watching Tourette content on the social media video-making-and-sharing app TikTok. Is the TS stuff on TikTok somehow bringing out some dormant, previously undocumented tic disorder in its viewers? Are they faking it? What's going on? We bring on a couple scientists -- Drs. Tamara Pringsheim and Davide Martino of the University of Calgary -- to investigate. And, yeah, it gets interesting. Plus: Revisiting a question from a struggling parent. And Tourette Awareness Month continues. Going Viral: Social Media May Be Increasing Cases of New-Onset Tics Work from Drs. Tamara Pringsheim and Davide Martino Tourette's Podcast is made possible by the Tourette Association of America, tourette.org. Support! You can give Tourette's Podcast individual support at https://www.patreon.com/tourettespodcast Tourette's Podcast Discussion Group on Facebook

What better way to celebrate Tourette Awareness Month (May 15-June 15) than to open up about having the disorder? For the first time, ever, we mean (to whom it applies). Just a few days before this episode's conversation took place, our guest, 26-year-old Jhonelle, spoke up for the first time publicly about her life with Tourette Syndrome. To classmates, everyone. Which came with self-questioning. Would people treat her differently? Would they doubt her? Take her seriously? Plus: A parent of a 13-year-old with TS is doubting her ability to help. And a few science facts that Touretters should know. Jhonelle on Instagram Dr. Christine Conelea (TS scientist) on Twitter Tourette's Podcast is made possible by the Tourette Association of America, tourette.org. Support! You can give Tourette's Podcast individual support at https://www.patreon.com/tourettespodcast Tourette's Podcast Discussion Group on Facebook

This is a milestone of sorts; we're talking with the first guest Tourette's Podcast ever had -- Maddie -- to hear how life has been since she opened it up to the world on Season 1, Episode 1. This is one of those roaming, casual-paced conversations that covers so much -- from self-evaluation to relationships to Elon Musk and cyborgs to transition points to openness with one's employer and so much more. Lots of laughing. Hope you enjoyed the Tourette Association of America's virtual conference last weekend. We catch up on it in the episode's intro. Tourette's Podcast is made possible by the Tourette Association of America, tourette.org. Support! You can give Tourette's Podcast individual support at https://www.patreon.com/tourettespodcast Tourette's Podcast Discussion Group on Facebook

Episode 1 of Season 7, "Whispering For Too Long," is one of the best conversations Tourette's Podcast has ever recorded. Our guest is Gogo. She's lived with TS her entire life, but didn't know it as such until much later in adulthood -- and that's a big factor for her. When she finally got the diagnosis, it was like the world turned different colors. One thing to know about Gogo -- she speaks her mind. With that, you get some of the funniest takes ever; but there's a lot of raw stuff here, too (with uncensored language, if you need such notice). Seriously, it doesn't get any more honest than this. Gogo White on Instagram Tourette Association of America 2021 Virtual Conference Tourette's Podcast is made possible by the Tourette Association of America, tourette.org. Support! You can give Tourette's Podcast individual support at https://www.patreon.com/tourettespodcast Tourette's Podcast Discussion Group on Facebook

Popping with Tourette Awareness Month (May 15-June 15), here's your entry to lucky number Season 7 of Tourette's Podcast with, as always, a twofer. Episodes 0 and 1 are out simultaneously. Episode 0 of Season 7, "Launch," captures a super solid conversation between podcast host Ben and two giants in the Tourette advocacy world -- TV presenter and wine/spirits expert Aidy Smith; and advocate, author and YouTuber Britney Wolf. This conversation, recorded live with a big online audience, kicked off the Tourette Association of America's 2021 virtual conference (May 14-16). Funny, sharp, serious, emotional -- we hit all the strings when it comes to life with Tourette and take some great audience questions. Past Tourette's Podcast conversation with Aidy Smith Past Tourette's Podcast conversation with Britney Wolf Aidy Smith on Instagram Britney Wolf on Instagram Tourette Association of America 2021 Virtual Conference Tourette's Podcast is made possible by the Tourette Association of America, tourette.org. Support! You can give Tourette's Podcast individual support at https://www.patreon.com/tourettespodcast Tourette's Podcast Discussion Group on Facebook

Folks! Season 7 is here, and just ahead of Tourette Awareness Month (May 15-June 15), kicked off PROPERLY by 2021 Virtual Conference with the Tourette Association of America. Here we catch up with Meghan Burns from TAA to talk about why this one is so significant. And just drops some cool breaking news on us. Listen! Check in! Lots coming up and we couldn't be more excited. https://www.touretteconference.org/ https://tourette.org/ - https://www.patreon.com/tourettespodcast

On the finale episode of Season 6, we close out an important ticket with a parent who wanted to know how to tell his young son he'd been diagnosed with Tourette Syndrome; we start up a book list; we urge your participation in National Advocacy Day (for U.S. residents); and then we get to the perfect guest to close out the season, Calvin Ramirez. This one feels like it answers a lot about where we've been and why we are the way we are at this point in our lives, and questions how it could be any different -- in a non-cheesy way, we promise. This one's power fun. Ben and Calvin even bring Gossip Girl into it. XOXO - Tourette's Podcast THANKS, EVERYBODY! Apply for scholarships for Tourette Students (thanks to Scholastic Tourette Supporters for supporting Tourette's Podcast!) Virtual National Advocacy Day 2021 (Get on board now!) Tourette's Podcast is made possible by the Tourette Association of America, tourette.org. Support! You can give Tourette's Podcast individual support at https://www.patreon.com/tourettespodcast

On this (great) episode, we have Eli, who works in American politics and campaigning. Lots of "yeah, me too!" talk about anxiety and fear and how it influences our behavior and, often, inaction, even on things we'd love to do. Also: a question -- with lots of answers -- from a parent on how to tell his young son he's been diagnosed with Tourette Syndrome. Plus: correcting the spelling of "scholastic." Apply for scholarships for Tourette Students (thanks to Scholastic Tourette Supporters for supporting Tourette's Podcast!) Virtual National Advocacy Day 2021 (Get on board now!) Tourette's Podcast is made possible by the Tourette Association of America, tourette.org. Support! You can give Tourette's Podcast individual support at https://www.patreon.com/tourettespodcast

Things that Ben and this week's guest, Becky of London, have in common: Both were young rebels. Both had a frustrating school experience. Both are creativity-driven. Both totally immerse themselves in specific interests in short blasts before moving onto the next total immersion. Both are learning how to slow down and take breaks. Becky is a barber. And Ben badly needs a haircut. But it's Becky in the chair on this episode, with a great story of how she arrived at a late Tourette diagnosis and how it applies looking back through earlier life. Ben also shares a ridiculous story from his young schoolboy days involving a number-two pencil. A chance to get a Tourette scholarship. And a listener question about the intersection of colored lighting and emotion. Apply for scholarships for Tourette Students (thanks to Scholastic Tourette Supporters for supporting Tourette's Podcast!) Becky on Instagram Jim Jams Resin Virtual National Advocacy Day 2021 (Get on board now!) Tourette's Podcast is made possible by the Tourette Association of America, tourette.org. Support! You can give Tourette's Podcast individual support at https://www.patreon.com/tourettespodcast

By request, this is the audio of Ben's remarks at the 2021 Virtual Teen Summit, which the Tourette Association of America held Jan. 9, 2021. With full remarks and some Q&A with the many teenagers on hand, the focus here is on self-acceptance and the power ingredient of vulnerability. Tourette's Podcast is made possible by the Tourette Association of America, tourette.org. Support! You can give Tourette's Podcast individual support at https://www.patreon.com/tourettespodcast

She freestyles her life experience. She holds rhythm. She's a self-taught musician. She owns her Tourette. She's 8 years old. Ky'lee Da Kid has so much in her command, but she lives in an area lacking on Tourette awareness, and so her coprolalia and other aspects don't get proper regard. But her mom, Sparkle, has something to say about it. She's the advocate, knows what Ky'lee has to offer, and won't negotiate less. They're both on this episode of Tourette's Podcast, which goes long on the power of creativity and letting people be their best selves. Ky'lee Da Kid Virtual National Advocacy Day 2021 (Get on board now!) Jan. 20, 2021 - Just for Dads: A Discussion on Tourette Syndrome and Parenting Tourette's Podcast is made possible by the Tourette Association of America, tourette.org. Support! You can give Tourette's Podcast individual support at https://www.patreon.com/tourettespodcast

It hasn't been easy for Shikhar, an 18-year-old from India. New to N. America, he's been constantly bullied for his tics in school. "It's not easy for me to tell anybody that I have Tourette's," Shikhar says. To make it worse, the racism he experiences adds all the more painful weight. But he's pushing through to the clearing. He's found the Tourette community, a proclivity for music, a has a career-eyed higher education drive. It's not easy. At all. But he's doing it. Listen to how he lays it all out, with a really strong finish. To everyone listening, never doubt the power of your listening ear and role in the community. Hichki (Indian movie about Tourette referenced in episode) Virtual Teen Summit, Jan. 9 TAA Progress Made in 2020 Virtual National Advocacy Day 2021 (Get on board now!) Jan. 20, 2021 - Just for Dads: A Discussion on Tourette Syndrome and Parenting Tourette's Podcast is made possible by the Tourette Association of America, tourette.org. Support! You can give Tourette's Podcast individual support at https://www.patreon.com/tourettespodcast Fiscal 2020 Annual Report

Self-isolation. Social tension. Fighting sleep because we want to be productive. Being resistant to our own nature. Sounds like heavy stuff, and it is, but why is this episode such a pleasure? Our guest, a 54-year-old woman with Tourette and all the things that come with it, lays it out in such an accessible, nod-your-head way. We get into the compassion of art, the effect of mindblowing sights, and finding that oasis of contentment. And we really get somewhere. Thanks to Christopher Mudie, new to the executive producer team (via support on Patreon.) JEWEL . Z . on Instagram TAA Virtual Teen Summit in January Virtual National Advocacy Day 2021 (Get on board now!) Jan. 20, 2021 - Just for Dads: A Discussion on Tourette Syndrome and Parenting Tourette's Podcast is made possible by the Tourette Association of America, tourette.org. Support! You can give Tourette's Podcast individual support at https://www.patreon.com/tourettespodcast

Hey, parents -- freaking out about your young child's future? Is his or her Tourette diagnosis all you can think about? Understandable, but give yourself a break and listen to TS parent Christina (who also happens to be a school teacher) describe what she found as her son got into his teen years and became someone she didn't have to worry about so much in that regard. But, indeed, she's been there: perceiving suffering, trying to figure it out, what to do to intervene, how to feel about it and whether anyone else out there had the same experience. This is one of those episodes of relief and comfort. Experiences vary of course. But, bottom line, there are lots of parents out there like you. Worry not. TAA Virtual Teen Summit in January Virtual National Advocacy Day 2021 (Get on board now!) Jan. 20, 2021 - Just for Dads: A Discussion on Tourette Syndrome and Parenting Clearing up the questions about strep and Tourette: 1. From the American Academy of Neurology 2. From the National Institutes of Health Tourette's Podcast is made possible by the Tourette Association of America, tourette.org. Support! You can give Tourette's Podcast individual support at https://www.patreon.com/tourettespodcast

Disclosing Tourette for the first time in one's adult life is an experience. You ask yourself a lot of questions, maybe look over your shoulder a bit. But the revelations coming flying. Your host certainly knows. And now so does Ben Gardner, who contacted Tourette's Podcast just before he told the world for the first time that he had Tourette Syndrome. It was actually a pretty awesome unveiling. Gardner hosts his own podcast, called the TOTs Podcast, which he used to deliver the news. On this episode of Tourette's Podcast, he talks about what's happened since, how his friends and family reacted, and how rattlingly good vulnerability can be. The two Bens also reveal a giant goal they're going to pursue together, and you might be able to help. As of this episode, Season 6 is dedicated to a masterful mom named Natalie. We share a message from her. Press play and listen. TAA Virtual Teen Summit in January Virtual National Advocacy Day 2021 (Get on board now!) Ben Gardner's disclosure episode of the TOTs Podcast Join the Tourette's Podcast Discussion Group Tourette's Podcast is made possible by the Tourette Association of America, tourette.org. Support! You can give Tourette's Podcast individual support at https://www.patreon.com/tourettespodcast

Considering he's going for the rare title of first professional boxing champ with Tourette Syndrome, Zack Rice has the perfect ring name: TicNTimebomb. We could pun the description of this episode as a hard-hitting interview, but it's so deep into the realities humanity that ... hard-hitting is probably appropriate, actually. Zack's a boxer, and while it's possible you're not into the sport, it's really just kind of an operative backdrop in this episode -- especially for the second half. Yeah, he answers questions about what got him into pugilism, how he trains and what it means to him, but from there it opens up wide into the philosophies of self acceptance and the personal punishment of being a people pleaser -- focusing on earning the admiration of other people due to insecurity, to the degree where you're subtracting too much from yourself. We talk about the motivation that gets him out of bed everyday with lots of good reminders for living a better life. This one just gets better as it goes. Hang out with us. You'll hear advice we haven't covered before. Sign up for the March 3 Virtual National Advocacy Day 2021 (including March 2 kick-off with Ben) TAA Teen Summit Zack Rice on Twitter On Instagram On YouTube

Riyani Patel, 16, just came out with her second book and it's blowing up Amazon, showing up as the #1 new release in books in the category of disability for young adults. Solid. On this episode, Riyani tells us what led her to write "The 'Terrible' Bullies," what she hopes the public takes from it, and what advocacy -- a likely career value -- means to her. PLUS: Adult ADHD and reading -- your thoughts. Ryani Patel, The "Terrible" Bullies The Boy Battle

Danni's story is amazing. Tough upbringing, a younger brother to protect, a surprise introduction to tics, and finding a way to make total sense of the sometimes elusive thing that is identity through a kind of physical transformation. Danni is wildly smart about, and creative with, the journey through Tourette, even regarding Tourette as a distinct kind of personality -- with a name. Danni Jack on Twitter Ben with Amanda Talty as guests on the TOTS Podcast http://www.totspodcast.com/ Join the Tourette's Podcast Discussion Group Tourette's Podcast is made possible by the Tourette Association of America, tourette.org. Support! You can give Tourette's Podcast individual support at https://www.patreon.com/tourettespodcast.

This conversation with our guest this week, Gianna, from New York, was recorded on the night of Election Day in the U.S., meaning, yeah, it served as a much-needed break from the mud throwing. Gianna, who has a master's degree in psych and works with disabled children, was a lot of fun to talk with and we did so like a regular hangout, the kind we'd probably have if we weren't recording. We talk Tourette analogies, self-accepting, being queer but finding it harder to come out as having TS, how to find relatability, frames of reference, and how to roll it all into real advocacy work. Sounds kind of serious, but it's fun. But, first, a deep, vulnerable word from a listener named Jackson. Scrunchies for Tourette shoptoni.co / https://shoptoni.co/collections/scrunches/products/gianna

First thing -- a THANK YOU to everyone who participated in the 2020 Tourette Association of America Virtual Gala. Lots of great post-gala talk and Tourette's Podcast appreciates all the support before, during and since. On this episode, we hear from MMAJunkie.com writer and martial artist Dan Tom, who brings us a long, steady conversation with lots of vulnerabilities, candidness and analogies best described as Quentin Tarantino inverting Disney. Get ready to go deep. This one's great. Plus: Your responses to the question from last week -- when's it okay to laugh about Tourette Syndrome? Dan Tom on Twitter At MMAjunkie.com Protect Ya Neck Podcast Join the Tourette's Podcast Discussion Group Tourette's Podcast is made possible by the Tourette Association of America, tourette.org.

One of the most requested guests in Tourette's Podcast history is here. Jamie Grace is a two-time Grammy-nominated singer, songwriter and actor who has refreshing angles on Tourette Syndrome, OCD, ADHD, anxiety and the components of each that are, sure enough, a privilege to have. (Hear her out!) She has a new book, called 'Finding Quiet,' a concept everyone in the room can relate to, and do we ever. On this episode we talk about all the brain-compressing things competing for our attention and where to find the elusive pause button. Really, it's been quite a year; this episode is healthy. Notes: The new book by Jamie Grace, 'Finding Quiet' Jamie Grace central, http://jamiegrace.com/ Tourette's Podcast is made possible by the Tourette Association of America, holding its Virtual Gala (emceed by Tourette's Podcast host Ben Brown) on Oct. 29, 2020. Check out https://tourette.org/get-involved/gala/. Join the Tourette's Podcast Discussion Group

Jollyville Radio maker Michael Crosa joins us this week with a Tourette story that's different from the standard model. He remembers his first tic down to the date and time of day. It was that jarring. This is an episode that gets more and more interesting as it goes. He also has a career that's kind of perfect for a Touretter. Can't wait for you to hear this one. And don't forget, I'll be emceeing the Tourette Association's Virtual Gala on Oct. 29. Make sure to check tourette.org/gala for the details. Michael's podcast, Jollyville Radio https://www.jollyvilleproductions.com/

Season 6 picks up right where Season 5 left off, and we'll leave it to Adam Curry to explain the how and why. Yep, that Adam Curry, the former MTV VJ these days known far and wide as the Podfather, a title that's followed him around since one of his inventions -- podcasting -- started to catch on. Not only would Tourette's Podcast not exist without it, but -- wouldn't you know it? -- Tourette Syndrome actually figures into the backstory. Here, Curry opens up like never before in discussing his life with Tourette Syndrome, from his youth, through his early radio and MTV days, and into his work as a hyperconscious tech and internet expert analyzing government legislation. Curry is a host of the popular No Agenda podcast and lives in Austin, Texas. You might've caught him recently on the Joe Rogan Experience; he addresses his tics within the first few minutes of that episode. Oh yeah, and what's a "gidget"? You'll relate. Big thanks to Adam Curry for spending time with us. Relevant links: Curry's main site No Agenda Curry on the Joe Rogan Experience (Sept. 8, 2020) Curry introducing Guns N Roses, MTV, 1988 Tourette's Podcast is made possible by the Tourette Association of America, holding its Virtual Gala (emceed by Tourette's Podcast host Ben Brown) on Oct. 29, 2020. Check out https://tourette.org/get-involved/gala/ Join the Tourette's Podcast Discussion Group

Some catchup, your feedback, a shredded voice, and a request to join me (in virtual fashion) at a big event coming up --https://tourette.org/get-involved/gala -- as we kick off Season 6 of Tourette's Podcast, which opens with a GREAT guest, Adam Curry, the Podfather.

Unbelievable. It's the FINALE of Season 5. But we go out the right way -- raising a glass with a special guest, Aidy Smith, who you know from the great docu-series The Three Drinkers on Amazon Prime. We talk about Aidy's background developing a world-class knowledge of wine and spirits and where Tourette Syndrome fits in. Aidy's opening-up about TS in his life has led to an important media sweep in the UK, where news outlets are sharing a relatable story from a popular presenter. Thanks to everyone who played a role in making Season 5 a highlight. Tourette's Podcast is made possible by the support of the Tourette Association of America. http://aidysmith.com/ https://www.thethreedrinkers.com/ https://www.instagram.com/sypped/ https://twitter.com/sypped HuffPo feat. on Aidy

We know sleep evades the "average" Touretter, but answer this, whoever you are: How do you typically start your day? Do you protest with the ol' "I just wanna keep sleeeeeping" or "I can't do this today"? Or do you do what Ellis Pascal does -- waking up exclaiming and jolting into the day -- ? Ellis is one of the most driven and energetic people we've heard from on this show, and his advice for a good life, balanced, productive life is pretty solid. He's used his own methods to tame his tics and create an environment for himself where he can help other people -- his ultimate goal. Really interesting guest here. This podcast is made possible with support from the Tourette Association of America, online at tourette.org. Ellis Pascal on Instagram Elli$D on Spotify TAA Young Investigator Award

New studio; new guest, and one many of you said you were excited to hear: Brian Lane. He's one of Tourette's best, working as an educator who, partly via TS, ends up being the perfect kind of person to lead a class and relate to what his students go through. He even helped one find a Tourette diagnosis. Brian himself lived a rough and disconnected youth, but found strength as he managed his TS and cultivated his own special skillsets of performing. On this episode we talk about isolation -- the bad and the potential okay-ness of it -- confidence and self-advocacy in a not-always-understanding world. Tourette's Podcast is made possible by the Tourette Association of America, tourette.org.

Attack of the teens continues! This week: Hara, who brings us a maximally convivial and poignant conversation about the funny and not-as-much moments of being a teenager with Tourette Syndrome. But there's a lot more to it -- ethnic backstories, family dynamics, queerness and intersectionality. Really lucky to have Hara walk us through it all, with one of the best family about-face stories we've gotten to hear, a tense moment in the grocery store, and a weird time being yelled at while trying to get a diagnosis. Tourette's Podcast is made possible by the support of the Tourette Association of America, tourette.org. https://tourette.org/about-us/diversity-inclusion/

You asked for it -- more teenage voices on Tourette's Podcast. Shylah, known around the web as Simply Tourettes, represents that voice dang well, and candidly so. She opens up, smartly dissects the struggles of reckoning with a perceived-to-be-weird thing like Tourette Syndrome at her age of 13, and finding ways to build structure around it. Everyone can relate to this one in one way or another. PLUS: Upcoming free webinars, and a notable listener gives Spot the TS Studio Cat a stylish hat. Simply Tourettes on YouTube Simply Tourettes Instagram Shylah on Tourette Talk with Britney Wolf Tourette Association of America upcoming events, webinars

We're nearly to the end of June, and in turn near the end of Pride Month, which has celebrated and boosted awareness for the LGBTQ+ community. Obviously these celebrations (need to) continue beyond a single month, and Tourette's Podcast is always there for it. The Tourette Association of America has been gathering stories from the LGBTQ+ community of Touretters at tourette.org/pride. If you'd like to share your experience, please visit that site. On this episode we have Carter, who TAA recently featured in an Instagram post for Pride Month. Carter, a trans man, was diagnosed with TS later in his adult life but has long known about his tics. We talk about the importance of having people in your life who know your context, so you don't have to spend all kinds of weighty time explaining your situation -- TS in this case. TS is not the only thing Touretters want to talk about, folks. We also discuss the sense of melody and musical talent so familiar to the TS community -- Carter plays drums and ukelele. Tourette's Podcast is made possible by the support of the Tourette Association of America, https://tourette.org.

Rinada is a prime example of a hero parent cutting through the red tape to get her son the world he needs while also giving him the room to live it his own way. As a woman of color, she also underlines the importance of storytelling, because when you don't see yourself in the everyday conversation, the everyday portrayal, the everyday slate of leadership and authority, you can feel isolated, and it's not really made better when the inclusion doesn't capture the heart of the experience. Sharing your experience will help others in your community feel empowered to share their stories, too. PLUS: Answering a question about sleep, a trying not to interrupt Zoom meetings with vocal tics. Webinar on TS and sleep (focusing on youth) with Dr. Emily Ricketts

The interview you're about to hear was recorded before the George Floyd news story and the subsequent demonstrations across the country. But it gets into some of the points that have been brought up with regard to the lack of certain life experiences in politics, or in government, or leadership or authority. Our guest this week, Justin Farmer, is a local elected official who's running for a state legislative seat, and his story of getting into public service involves his experience not only as a young black man but also as someone with Tourette Syndrome, who understands the disability community and being misjudged for outward characteristics. Tourette's Podcast is made possible by the support of the Tourette Association of America, https://tourette.org. https://tourette.org/awareness Justin Farmer

I posted this in the Tourette's Podcast Discussion Group earlier and figured I should here too — It's been a long day here, but I wanted to say something: If there's one thing the Tourette community knows, it's how to be empathetic and appreciate the stories of wrongly treated populations. Clearly the magnitude of protest we're seeing expressed in so many cities in recent days highlights how long the black community and other historically oppressed populations have asked broader society and its elected leaders to truly listen and take the need for meaningful, permanent change seriously, and how it can't wait any longer. Sure, there have been great strides toward a better world over the past few decades, but there's been a lot of comfortable pretending that it's all mission-accomplished; we're obviously not where we should be. There's a horrible passivity in letting the grievances of affected people be downplayed or, if listened to, quickly forgotten as news cycles move on to the next thing. I can't imagine how frustrating and painful it must be for deeply affected populations to see chances for change disintegrate as the world slips back into business as usual. I hope the energy we see right now clears that hurdle so our leaders from the federal to the household level take seriously the threat of racism and hatred, and how we're torn apart until we do. Here's an analogy the Tourette community might be familiar with: the longer we suppress, the bigger or more pronounced the release tends to be. I hope what's happening now makes way for actual relief, and I hope our leaders do a lot better than form some temporary task force or one-off initiative just to say we've done something. In the words of George Carlin, "An initiative is an idea that isn't going anywhere." Change requires more than that. We all need to acknowledge that we don't understand as much as we think we do. We need to listen to difficult stories, and angle our minds toward acceptance and resolution when people have something to say. I'm proud to be part of a community that understands this. I (Ben, podcast host) and Sophia (discussion group admin) stand in solidarity with everyone listening and working to educate against racism, discrimination and willful ignorance. I'm always here to listen to you and I'm grateful for your commitment as well. Love to all of you. #blacklivesmatter #thanksforlistening

Amanda Talty is back! The president and CEO of the Tourette Association of America talks ways to maximize Tourette Awareness Month, what's happening in the world that hopefully leads to an easier time discussing mental health, what happened at the recent TAA Virtual Conference, and what TAA's programming is focusing on. Plus - listeners questions for Ben: What's your most awkward tic? What's kept you busy during the quarantine? Also - masking tics with an actual mask. Oh, and if you musically inclined Touretters (or anyone else) want to submit Tourette's Podcast jingles, that's 100% welcomed. Tourette's Podcast is made possible by the support of the Tourette Association of America, https://tourette.org/. TAA Virtual Conference "The Story of the Human Rubberneck" by Shaharah Gaznabbi

Dr. Christine Conelea is a star in the Tourette research field (and an important support beam for Tourette's Podcast in the process). She has an fun energy for tackling TS research questions, but isn't content letting the results of her work (or anyone else's) sit quietly in the vaults. Instead, she wants the Tourette community to know what questions the scientists are researching, and even question their relevance. How can scientists know what's really important to the people who live with the disorder they're studying? And how can the Tourette community better understand what scientists are doing? Dr. Conelea is all about the creating connections of mutual information to maximize benefits on both ends. Fascinating talk here with Dr. Conelea about Tourette research and how Touretters can help to advance it. Tourette's Podcast is made possible by the support of the Tourette Association of America, https://tourette.org/. @cconelea Tourette scientists directory https://www.treatingtourettetogether.org/ Lele Pons opens up about OCD, Tourette TAA Virtual Conference

When Kyle was growing up, he experienced the very torment so many Touretters can relate to -- being bullied, being punished for tics, a lack of empathy within the family, et cetera -- and in turn vented angrily to the people around him. Once he noticed his young son, Bryson, was clearly displaying tics, Kyle was determined to give him a different outlook. Today, Bryson, 9, is a highly focused taekwondo competitor viewed as advanced for his age, so much that people around him view his Tourette as a strength. Posting videos of his training and words of Tourette positivity, Bryson has built a following on Instagram. Now, his entire town knows his face -- it's on a giant billboard advertising Tourette Awareness Month, which begins now -- May 15 -- and runs through June 15. There is some discussion of CBD and marijuana in a medicinal sense on this episode. Remember, Tourette's Podcast is not a medical advice show; any discussions of medications or forms of treatment you hear on the show are just things we talk about in the course of discussing individuals' experience. We covered the question of marijuana for TS treatment in last week's episode. In other news, the Tourette Association of America's Virtual Conference begins today (May 15). The two-day event has an amazing, stacked menu of sessions you'll benefit from. Virtual Conference May 15 and 16 Bryson Jones on Instagram - @brysonjonests Tourette Association of America (give your support!) TAA position on medical marijuana Virtual Quilt Geeks Rising

A different kind of episode this week. After hearing from Touretters on the Tourette's Podcast Answering Machine, we talk Tourette science and medicine with one of the best -- Dr. John Walkup, Chair of the Pritzker Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Health at the Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital in Chicago, Illinois. We get his backstory, how he wandered into Tourette as a focus, and then we cover the most frequently asked question submitted to Tourette's Podcast -- what's the lowdown on marijuana as a Tourette treatment? Valid? Problematic? Needs work? Let's circle up and learn. In the second half of the episode, we talk anxiety science -- what's going on in our brains when we feel it? What's the use of it? Where can we take it? Hugely thankful to have Dr. Walkup guide us through. Tourette's Podcast is made possible with the support of the Tourette Association of America. Dr. John Walkup Tourette Association of America (give your support!) TAA position on medical marijuana Virtual Conference May 15 and 16 Virtual Quilt Geeks Rising

When Ben was in the hospital (as talked about on Episode 0 of this season), one of the things that got him through was a book called "Twist and Shout: An Awkward Life With Tourettes." The author, Tyler Oberheu, had loaded it with stuff to laugh or nod over. On every page. Snarky angles. Oddities. Trials. Existential silly-string. That "can this be real?" feeling. And some warm, honest takes on what the point of all this might be. On this episode, we hear from the author himself, who immediately conveys that the personality he shows us in the book is sincere. Tyler also discusses his own time in the hospital. Tourette's Podcast is made possible with support from the Tourette Association of America, tourette.org. Twist and Shout: An Awkward Life With Tourettes Tourette Association of America Virtual Conference May 15-16 Geeks Rising

Matt Sawyer AKA noMad is a rapper from St. Paul, Minnesota who hadn't put much thought into writing anything about Tourette Syndrome until his producer told him to. Seems like it would be a challenge to condense a life of experience with TS, associated school-ground ridicule and personal healing into a radio-length song. But he'd spent a lot of time learning himself, and the instincts poured out of him. This conversation captures a lot of what orbited that process and how it's good to evaluate ourselves and whether we're doing what we want or what society wants. The measures of prestige sometimes have nothing to do with our own personal quests, Matt points out. Major takeaways here. Do not miss this episode. Tourette's Podcast is made possible with support from the Tourette Association of America, tourette.org. noMad "Ticcin'" music video Tourette Association of America Virtual Conference, May 15-16 TAA website and COVID-19 resources Geeks Rising

Daisy is a solid mom. She didn't let all the Tourette-flattening forces of the world set the course for her 8-year-old son, Angel, who was diagnosed with TS about a year ago. Even the diagnosis was a migraine, coming with some odd advice about what the world would be like for Angel. Daisy shut it down, did what solid parents do and figured out how to give her child a world he could shape for himself. This is a highlight episode, especially for parents but certainly for everyone. Plus: An update on Treating Tourette Together. A reminder about the Tourette Association of America's Inaugural Virtual Conference, FREE, May 15-16. And your voices on the Tourette's Podcast Answering Machine. Have a message to leave? Record it (you can do it on your phone's voice memo app) and send it to [email protected]. Tourette's Podcast is made possible with support from the Tourette Association of America, tourette.org, and is part of the Geeks Rising podcast network, geeksrising.com. Links: Treating Tourette Together Community Report https://view.publitas.com/tourette-association-of-america/ttt-community-report/page/1 https://www.treatingtourettetogether.org/ https://www.facebook.com/groups/664680327265761/ https://tourette.org/ https://tourette.org/about-tourette/virtual-conference/ https://www.geeksrising.com/ https://www.patreon.com/tourettespodcast

Lewis Rossignol is a widely known and followed artist who makes his entire living off of his work, often on commissions, and has Tourette Syndrome at the core of it. Art was his way. On this episode, Lewis discusses what's behind his work, why Tourette is so connected to it, his decision to make art his career without spoiling what he loves about it, and advice to the younger creatives listening. Lately, he's been selling prints from his sketchbook and giving proceeds to fight hunger during the pandemic. We also hear from listeners (send a voice note to [email protected] to have it played on the show) and update you on the Tourette Association of America's accessible backup plan after having to cancel its annual conference (per COVID-19). @lewisrossignol on Instagram Lewis Rossignol Art Thumbnail: A Visual Arts Podcast touretteconference.org with info on the Virtual Conference tourette.org

Ben starts Season 5 by opening way up about his recent experience in the hospital and how it was the best thing that ever happened to him. (And also check out Episode 1, released the same time as this one). Thanks to the Tourette Association of America for making this podcast possible. https://tourette.org

Unbelievably, we're at the season finale! This episode looks at big takeaways from Season 4 (so much unforgettable stuff) before a close-out conversation with Haley from Alabama, U.S. She didn't receive a Tourette Syndrome diagnosis until she was 18, but all along "I pretty much knew I was different," she said. "It was easy to tell." We cover loads of relatable things -- perfectionism, handling rage, depression, the importance of awesome home support, and much more. Thanks everyone for making this season such a packed highlight.

Giveaway winners! Touretters on "Motherless Brooklyn"! And magic! Really! We're joined this week by professional magician Jason Michaels, who has Tourette Syndrome. And I know what you're wondering: How does one master sleight of hand with body tics? Is anxiety a factor on stage? And how does one get past total embarrassment of Tourette to the point of using it straight-up for relatability? Jason is clearly worth listening to. He's also authored a book about his experiences and is check-out-able at jasonmichaelsmagic.com. Plus: Free webinars! And what's your favorite app for relaxation or sleep? Send suggestions to [email protected]. Links: Jason Michaels Magic https://www.jasonmichaelsmagic.com/ Motherless Brooklyn video spot for TAA https://youtu.be/IZkvThNvfGY Free webinars https://tourette.org/resources/taa-webinars/ Treating Tourette Together info and survey https://www.treatingtourettetogether.org/survey

We're joined by a high-ranking federal official in the States who has LOTS of wisdom on running a diverse and appreciated workplace, and how Tourette Syndrome has given him, if anything, advantages to that end. He's also got a great story about his first awareness of Tourette. PLUS: Giveaway winners! Discussion group stats! Upcoming events! Tourette.org!

Occasionally a listener asks what we've done on tic disorders OTHER than Tourette Syndrome. And the answer is: not much. Until now. Rachel has chronic motor tic disorder and, as you might expect, stories familiar to any Touretter and probably eye-opening to anyone unfamiliar. But she, and many others with non-Tourette tic disorders, raises a good point about the weirdness of finding community when you're sort of an asterisk ("it's not Tourette exactly, but..."). Rachel, it turns out, is a highlight. https://www.treatingtourettetogether.org/ Free TAA webinars and other events https://tourette.org/get-involved/events/ Online Support Groups – Spanish https://tourette.org/online-support-groups-spanish/

1. Yuki is strong, and you'll agree after hearing what has to be the foremost tic story ever told on this podcast. She deals with coprolalia, paralysis tics and other pressures to stay ahead of. Saying it again -- she's strong. Have a listen. 2. It's time for an amazingly cool giveaway! Details in the episode. Links: Treating Tourette Together executive summary TTT survey 12 Days of Giving at TAA

It's #TourettesCop day on the podcast! We've got him, among our most in-demand guests, and it's great. What's it like to be a police officer with Tourette Syndrome? Answers ahead. Also: weighing in on Nick Cannon's "Tourette's" lyric and a followup on the Treating Tourette Together Summit, with a call to action. Links: Treating Tourette Together executive summary https://www.treatingtourettetogether.org/survey TTT survey https://sjsu.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_0UrOSuek1qXvnA9 12 Days of Giving at TAA https://tourette.org/12-days-of-giving/ Everyday Experience podcast https://jonsarge08.podbean.com/

First thing -- we have a winner to our pop-quiz question! And he has a special message. And then we get to Daphne, our guest this week who has a lot to say about creativity as an artist and identity as a trans woman, all of it fitting into the Tourette context with important takeaways for anyone listening. Please spend time absorbing this one. John's donation page https://secure.everyaction.com/P2P/RaHab869RUy_KiuArgcHMw2/MS_PhAJDEeqCiygYeE1taA2 Upcoming Tourette events and webinars https://tourette.org/get-involved/events Double your impact! https://tourette.org/support/

Rejuvenated after a little break, we're back, this time with Jason from Australia. He knows the value of a good break from the grind to sort out one's head, and we get into that (and how difficult it can be, too). Jason, professionally, is a diversity and inclusion specialist in sports and event management -- which can be fast-paced, and certainly in the context of Tourette Syndrome. But he handles it. Listen how. David Begnaud honored at the Tourette Association gala (TAA's YouTube) https://youtu.be/yvcWz3Fnl00 TAA webinar ahead on Dec. 5: Sleep Problems and Management in Youth with Tourette Syndrome https://register.gotowebinar.com/register/8417301772873766157