Why MasterChef Was the Perfect Storm for My Autism & ADHD | Vanessa D’Souza

Why MasterChef Was the Perfect Storm for My Autism & ADHD | Vanessa D’Souza

July 7, 2026 · 24 min · Season 1 · Episode 154

About this episode

Dr. Jolene Brighten discusses the intersection of autism, ADHD, and women's health with MasterChef UK contestant Vanessa D'Souza.

High-masking autism in women often goes unnoticed because success can hide disability. In this episode, Dr. Jolene Brighten sits down with MasterChef UK contestant Vanessa D'Souza to discuss autism, ADHD, sensory processing, masking, autistic burnout, and why so many women aren't diagnosed until adulthood. 📖 For show notes, resources, and links mentioned in this episode, visit: https://drbrighten.com/podcasts/autism-and-adhd/ Pre-order your copy of ADHD and Women and unlock exclusive bonuses—including my PMDD Solution Workshop, bonus trainings, downloadable resources, and more before they're gone! 👉 Pre-Order Here: http://drbrighten.com/adhdandwomen You'll Learn Why MasterChef became the perfect storm for autistic burnout Why autism in women is still so frequently overlooked The hidden cost of high masking and why success doesn't mean someone isn't struggling How sensory processing affects food, cooking, and everyday life Why so many women don't receive an autism diagnosis until adulthood What autistic burnout actually feels like—and why recovery can take months The accommodations that can make an enormous difference for autistic adults Why asking for support isn't…

People in this episode

Host: Dr. Jolene Brighten

Guest: Vanessa D'Souza

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Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: MasterChef UK

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