This film broke my heart, and opened my eyes

So much of the neurodiversity conversation focuses on autism, ADHD and dyslexia. And yes, they matter. Deeply. But if we stop there, we miss the bigger picture.

We miss the people who don’t see themselves in those conversations.
We miss the opportunity to understand how wide and varied neurodivergence really is.
We miss the whole point.

At Differing Minds, we talk about differences, not just diagnoses. Because when the lens is wider, more people feel seen. And that changes everything.

Quick heads up...

I’m hosting a free masterclass: How to be a neurodiversity champion, without burning out

Last week I watched I Swear, a feature-length film about John Davidson, a Tourette’s advocate from Scotland who’s been educating others for over 30 years. It’s the kind of film that stays with you. Not because it’s dramatic or polished. But because it’s honest. And human. And full of heart.

I Swear shows the reality of living with Tourette’s - the stigma, the exhaustion, the impact on family, and the daily choices John makes to keep going and keep educating.

It’s not a film about tics. It’s a film about a person. About difference. And about what happens when society refuses to listen, and what’s possible when it finally does.

With a short attention span, films aren’t usually my thing. But this one gripped me right from the start. I cried through a lot of it. And it’s stayed with me since.

I genuinely can’t recommend it enough.

There’s one line in it that sums up everything I try to teach people.

“I don’t think Tourette’s is the problem. People not knowing about Tourette’s is the problem.”

Someone I know at Accenture recently organised a cinema trip to watch the film for their employee network. A simple but powerful idea. Unfortunately it’s no longer available to watch at the cinema but you can find it on Amazon Prime, Apple TV and more.

You could organise a watch party at work. It’s such a great way to widen the lens and make space for voices we rarely hear at work.

You won’t be disappointed. But make sure you bring some tissues if you’re anything like me!

After a recent session, we asked participants what stood out. One person said:

This comes up again and again. People don’t always realise just how wide the umbrella is. But once they do, it shifts something. It opens the door to deeper empathy, and more inclusive action.

Want to make sure you’re not leaving anyone out?

Watch: I Swear - The true story of John Davidson and his decades-long mission to challenge the stigma around Tourette’s. It’s emotional, moving and eye-opening. Watch the trailer and maybe organise a screening at work.

Just because a difference is less visible, or less talked about, doesn’t mean it matters less. We all deserve to be part of the story.

Speak soon,
Jess

PS Whenever you’re ready, here are some ways I can help: