Episode 231: Neurodivergent Friendships and Social Struggles [featuring Caroline Maguire]

In this episode, Patrick Casale talks with Caroline Maguire, ACCG, PCC, M.Ed. Caroline is an award-winning author and coach whose work inspires crucial conversations around social skills, friendship, and belonging—especially for neurodivergent adults. Patrick and Caroline discuss everything from unmasking and authentic connection to the real-life struggles and victories of forming meaningful relationships as adults who think differently.

Here are 3 key takeaways:

1. Go with Your Gut: Whether you’re writing, working, or building friendships, trust your instincts. Embracing confidence in your own voice—even when it means not pleasing everyone—is essential for authenticity and fulfillment.
2. Friendship Isn’t One-Size-Fits-All: Forget “traditional” networking advice. For neurodivergent adults, it’s about finding high-interest, safe spaces and understanding your own sensory needs. Deep connection can happen outside the typical social settings—there’s no single path to friendship.
3. Honor Your Energy and Needs: Setting boundaries and being honest about what drains or energizes you is vital. The friends who respect your limits (whether it’s choosing not to be in social situations, preferring smaller gatherings, or picking shade over sun) are your people.

More about Caroline:

Caroline Maguire, ACCG, PCC, M.Ed., is an award-winning author, coach, teacher, and keynote speaker whose work has inspired important conversations about social skills, friendship, and belonging. Caroline has been a rock for thousands of people who struggle to make friends. Her book “Why Will No One Play With Me?” has won several awards, including the Best Book Award from American Book Fest, Mom’s Choice Award for Honoring Excellence, and Book Authority’s award for Best ADHD Books of All Time. Caroline’s next book for adults, Friendship Skills for the Neurodivergent: A Guide for the Quirky, Anxious, and Easily Distracted, will release in April 2026.

1. Website: carolinemaguireauthor.com
2. Facebook: facebook.com/AuthorCarolineM
3. Instagram: instagram.com/authorcarolinem
4. YouTube: youtube.com/channel/UCnDmu0c8kr0co2ppXo3EC8A
5. Twitter: twitter.com/AuthorCarolineM
6. LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/authorcarolinecm
7. TikTok: tiktok.com/@authorcarolinem
8. Pinterest: