S3 EP1 - Neurodivergent Perseverance: I Need a Hero

S3 EP1 - Neurodivergent Perseverance: I Need a Hero

From The Middle School Mary Poppins Podcast by Suzanne M. Swain, EDS LMSW

February 12, 2026 · 15 min

About this episode

Suzanne M. Swain explores the true nature of heroism, emphasizing persistence, joy, and empathy, particularly for neurodivergent learners.

Heroes aren’t always loud—and they don’t always wear capes.In this episode of Middle School Mary Poppins, Suzanne M. Swain explores what heroism really looks like in the real world: persistence, joy, empathy, and showing up as yourself—even when it’s hard.Inspired by the Winter Olympics, beloved pop-culture heroes, a surprising animal rescue, and the power of team culture, Suzanne reframes heroism for kids, parents, and educators—especially those supporting neurodivergent learners.This episode is a love letter to: quiet bravery kids who feel different teams that thrive on joy and belonging and the truth that you fall down nine times, but you get up ten You’ll hear why joy is your greatest advantage to performance, why nothing is harder to stop than a team having a blast, and how everyday acts of courage can change classrooms, families, and lives.Whether you’re a parent, teacher, therapist, or a kid who’s still figuring it out—this one’s for you. Free, accessible, and made with care—always. Stay clever, little foxes. 🦊🤓🥰 Contact Suzanne Swain: Email: [email protected] Website: msmarypoppins.com Produced By: StellaMix Podcast Productio ns Special thanks to our producer…

People in this episode

Host: Suzanne M. Swain

Topics covered

  • heroism
  • neurodivergent learners
  • empathy
  • team culture
  • persistence
  • joy

Keywords

  • heroism
  • neurodivergent
  • Winter Olympics
  • empathy
  • team culture
  • persistence
  • joy

Mentioned in this episode

Books & works: Middle School Mary Poppins

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