Somewhere I Belong w/ Johnathan Rochford

Somewhere I Belong w/ Johnathan Rochford

From Neuro FM by Jeremy Rochford

February 25, 2026 · 23 min · Season 1 · Episode 93

About this episode

Jeremy Rochford and Johnathan Rochford discuss the nuances of belonging and inclusion through the lens of a hockey tournament experience.

In this episode, Jeremy Rochford and Johnathan reflect on a weekend hockey tournament that quietly revealed how belonging is built—or broken—in everyday moments. The rink becomes the backdrop for a bigger conversation about inclusion: who feels welcomed into a space, who has to work harder to fit in, and how subtle social rules can make people feel either safe or on the outside. Through small, ordinary interactions with parents, kids, and staff, they unpack how belonging isn’t about being invited into the room—it’s about being able to show up as yourself once you’re there. The conversation moves beyond sports to explore what inclusion actually looks like for neurodivergent families in public spaces: the unspoken pressures to “blend in,” the exhaustion of masking, and the relief that comes when someone slows down enough to notice what another person needs. Jeremy and Johnathan share practical insights for creating environments where people don’t have to perform to be accepted—whether that’s in a rink, a workplace, a church lobby, or your own home. It’s a grounded reminder that belonging isn’t created by policies alone, but by the everyday choices we make to see, include, and make…

People in this episode

Host: Jeremy Rochford

Guest: Johnathan Rochford

Topics covered

  • belonging
  • inclusion
  • neurodiversity
  • social interactions
  • community
  • hockey

Keywords

  • belonging
  • inclusion
  • neurodivergent
  • social rules
  • community spaces
  • masking
  • everyday interactions

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: NeuroFam, EleventySeven

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