The Hidden 20%

Leading Autism Expert on Hidden Talents, Late Diagnosis & Burnout

The Hidden 20%

Show Notes

In this episode, Ben sits down with Professor Francesca Happé - one of the most distinguished and respected voices in autism research. With over 30 years at the forefront of the field, Francesca has reshaped how we understand autism, from exploring social cognition to uncovering the hidden experiences of autistic women, the elderly, and under-researched groups.

In this chat with Ben, they unpack hidden autistic talents like perfect pitch and detailed memory, why late diagnosis fuels burnout, how emotional care differs from cognitive mind‑reading, and why research on sensory processing and inclusion is needed more than ever.

This is part two of a two-part episode. To catch all the groundbreaking discoveries, be sure to check out last week's episode!

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On "The Hidden 20%," host Ben Branson chats with neurodivergent [ADHD, Autism, Dyscalculia, Dyslexia, Dyspraxia, Tourette's etc.] creatives, entrepreneurs, and experts to see how great minds.. think differently.

Host: Ben Branson Head of Production: Bella Neale Assistant Producer: Phoebe De Leiburné Video Editor: James Scriven Social Media Manager: Charlie Young Music: Jackson Greenberg

Brought to you by charity The Hidden 20% #1203348 ______________

Follow & subscribe…

Website: www.hidden20.org Instagram / TikTok / Youtube / X: @Hidden20charity Ben Branson @seedlip_ben Francesca Happé @happelab

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More from The Hidden 20%

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Jun 24, 2026

For two years, Ben Branson has sat in the green interviewer chair - asking the hard questions, holding the space, and speaking on behalf of The Hidden 20% community.

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Jun 10, 2026

Writer, podcast host and mental health advocate Gemma Styles joins Ben for a deeply honest conversation about ADHD, anxiety, depression and the emotional weight of going through life feeling constantly overwhelmed without understanding why.

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See all episodes →