The Secret Loneliness of Sensitive and Neurodivergent Gen Z with Lara Rodwell
In this deeply heartfelt and validating episode, guest host Carol Roesler welcomes Lara Rodwell, founder of The Lonely Club and journalist, for an empowering conversation about autism, sensitivity, loneliness, and self-discovery.
Lara shares her personal journey through misdiagnosis, the loneliness that often follows, and how self-identifying as a sensitive autistic neurotype became a turning point toward self-acceptance. Together, Carol and Lara explore the challenges women face when they don’t fit the outdated models of autism diagnosis, and how finding accurate understanding can feel like a “homecoming.”
Links mentioned:
Lara Rodwell is a mental health writer, journalist, and neurodiversity advocate passionate about addressing the loneliness epidemic among young people. She’s the founder of The Lonely Club - an online and offline community for those who struggle to find connection in conventional social settings.
Follow her work:
Website & Blog: https://lararodwell.journoportfolio.com/myportfolio/
Lara's Blog Article: Why Misdiagnosis Keeps Sensitive Autistic Women Lonely — and How Self-Discovery Changes Everything
Takeaways
The origins and mission of The Lonely Club—creating safe spaces for young neurodivergent people.
Lara’s experience with misdiagnosis through the NHS and her later validation through Julie Bjelland’s autism assessment.
The loneliness many sensitive and autistic women experience when their traits are misunderstood.
The concept of the sensitive autistic neurotype as defined by Julie Bjelland.
Turning perceived “weaknesses” (like sensitivity or introversion) into strengths and creative power.
The generational struggle of being told “you’re too sensitive.”
How external diagnostic criteria often overlook women and non-male expressions of autism.
Advocacy for sensitive autistic university students and young adults navigating social challenges.
Reframing “lazy” or “avoidant” behaviors as signs of burnout, masking, or perfectionism—not lack of motivation.
The importance of self-compassion and self-advocacy in the neurodivergent journey.
About Your Hosts
Carol Roesler is co-author of the new children’s book series, The Adventures of Niko, the Highly Sensitive Dog and co-hosts “Intuitive Parenting” events inside the Sensitive Empowerment Community to support caregivers of sensitive little ones. As a volunteer Children's Librarian leading pre-K through 5th-grade reading groups, she often wished for books with characters that reflected the unique traits of bright, sensitive children. An introverted child, Carol’s favorite books were her best friends, inspiring the character Buttercup. Buttercup’s passion for research was inspired by Carol’s daughter, whose literary explorations discovered the unique, joyful dance of the blue-footed booby. This inspired the wonderfully extroverted character Blueberry. Carol is thrilled to collaborate with Julie in creating characters that celebrate being their authentic, unique selves! You can reach her at ambassador@sensitive-empowerment.com. Get the book at juliebjelland.com/childrens-books
Julie Bjelland, LMFT
Julie is a psychotherapist, author, and founder of Sensitive Empowerment. She specializes in high sensitivity and the Sensitive Autistic Neurotype, offering compassionate support through consultations, adult autism assessments, self-paced courses, and a global community. Her work includes a top-ranked podcast reaching listeners in 191 countries and a globally followed blog. Learn more at JulieBjelland.com
Being sensitive or autistic is not a flaw. Julie Bjelland, LMFT, celebrates global podcast statistics, explores sensory overload, and explains why many highly sensitive adults are discovering they are autistic. Learn how self-understanding brings relief, reduces shame, and helps you care for your nervous system with compassion.