Have you ever felt that the right words at the right time can change everything?
Words can be powerful, especially for those navigating life with neurological conditions like Tourette’s or ADHD.
In our recent podcast episode, we sat down with Kristof Morrow, a US Navy veteran and accomplished writer who shares how words have been a lifeline for him—and how they can be for others as well.
Welcome to ‘The Happy Sensory Corner’ – the podcast where we explore the world of sensory enrichment and environmental enrichment to treat neurological conditions.
Through insightful discussions, interviews with experienced experts in a variety of fields, from nutrition to psychology, and inspiring stories of resilience, we uncover the secrets to success in raising a child with complex needs. Discover practical strategies, sensory enrichment protocols, and evidence-based practices that can transform lives one episode at a time.
Mark Gray is a personal trainer who specializes in helping busy people — including parents — prioritize movement and live pain-free.
Topics that are especially close to his heart, both professionally and personally:
• Gamifying exercise to make it fun for kids with autism and developmental delays
• Why doing short bursts of high-intensity movement helps re-activate brain development
• How to build a consistent habit even when life feels chaotic
He’s had his own health struggles and now helps others avoid long-term consequences by making small, doable changes.
We talk about how to turn 10 minutes of movement into something your child actually wants to do, how to lower their “motivation threshold,” and why it works better when you do it with them. This episode will help you build a realistic habit of exercise at home — one that supports brain health, strengthens your bond, and feels like play instead of pressure.
Episode Highlights
3:03 – Kim introduces the brain-health benefits of exercise: “High-intensity exercise helps activate a hyper-repair mode in the brain… which makes sense, because your whole body is in repair mode.”
6:18 – Mark shares how childhood sports injuries led him to focus on sustainable health and injury prevention: “I wanted to help people not just be fit, but live pain-free and actually enjoy the life they have.”
15:27 – Kim gets animated debunking a theory about concussions in rugby vs. football and links it to brain health: “So maybe that whole theory just flies right out the window.”
18:55 – Kim shares a breakthrough from Claudie: “We came across studies showing that intense exercise triggers the same neuroplasticity window as sensory enrichment… so now we ask parents to go until the child’s flushed and breathless.”
21:44 – Mark offers a playful twist on squats: “Throw a beanbag between reps. Now you’re dodging, squatting to save your life — way more fun than just ‘one more squat.’”
27:00 – Kim reframes an old belief: “I used to think there was only one type of exercise that helped the brain. But now I realize if we’re too rigid, we lose consistency.”
29:49 – Mark shares a practical rule: “Schedule 10–15 minutes like a non-negotiable. If you wait for perfect, you’ll get stuck.”
35:18 – Kim shares his own trick: “I leave gym shorts at the end of my bed. My only goal is to wear them. Then somehow, I end up working out.”
38:00 – Kim speaks directly to the emotional reality of parents: “So many parents feel like they don’t deserve self-care. But if you do it for your child, it’s easier. It fits with how you’re already thinking.”
41:15 – Mark explains his sneaky strategy: “I’d add extra weight to the machine without telling my clients. Because often their mind gives up before their body does.”
49:58 – Kim demos a live ChatGPT prompt: “Give me fun ways to make squats better for kids with autism.” And the results are golden: “Animal squats, treasure hunts, storylines — boom, five ideas in seconds.”
54:36 – Mark: “When you compare exercise with fun, it becomes a winning combo. You don’t want to do this for two weeks — you want it for life.”
The Importance of Patience and Belief
Living with or caring for someone with Tourette’s or similar conditions can be challenging.
Kristof emphasizes the critical role of patience and believing in your loved one’s experience.
He shares,
“Patience—both in oneself and from others—is the foundation of any meaningful relationship when navigating these challenges.”
Research shows that patience is crucial in caregiving for individuals with neurological conditions, as it helps build trust and emotional stability.
Imagine feeling misunderstood or dismissed because your struggles aren’t immediately visible or easily explained.
For people with Tourette’s, being believed is essential.
It’s not just about support; it’s about validation.
Kristof reminds us that what we often take for granted—a few minutes of listening, a moment of empathy—can be life-changing for those who need it most.
When Words Are a Bridge
Kristof introduces the idea of using cards that explain neurological conditions like Tourette’s.
“These simple tools can be incredibly effective in helping others understand behaviors that might seem out of place,”
Kristof explains.
Think about how often we rely on non-verbal cues to explain or justify our actions.
Now imagine not having that luxury, where a sudden movement or sound is met with judgment instead of understanding.
These cards serve as a bridge, connecting the neurodivergent individual’s world with the neurotypical one.
It’s a small step, but one that can lead to greater acceptance and fewer misunderstandings.
Channeling ADHD into Creative Outlets
ADHD is often viewed as a hindrance, but Kristof turns that notion on its head.
He shares,
“I channel my ADHD into productive and creative outlets, transforming what could be seen as a weakness into a powerful strength.”
Whether it’s writing, photography, or journalism, Kristof’s work is a testament to the idea that neurodivergent individuals can not only thrive but excel in their chosen fields.
It’s about finding the right channel for that energy, where the very thing that makes one different becomes the source of their success.
The Power of Storytelling
Kristof’s love for writing and storytelling wasn’t just a hobby—it was a discovery that changed his life.
Reflecting on how he found his voice through writing, Kristof says,
“Creative writing isn’t just about putting words on paper; it’s about expressing thoughts and emotions that might otherwise remain trapped inside.”
For Kristof, storytelling is a tool for connection, not just with others but with oneself.
Reading as a Gateway to Understanding
Claudie Pomares, another guest on the podcast, highlights the importance of reading beautiful, age-appropriate texts to neurodivergent children.
In our fast-paced, screen-filled world, it’s easy to overlook the simple act of reading.
But for children who process the world differently, reading can be a gateway to understanding and emotional growth.
Claudie shares,
“When you read to children, especially neurodivergent ones, you’re not just improving their literacy; you’re nurturing their emotional well-being and sense of belonging.”
This practice goes beyond literacy—it’s about helping children feel more connected and understood.
Words that Heal and Connect
One of the most poignant moments in the episode is when Kristof reads a passage from his book at 32:07.
The passage illustrates the power of acceptance and belonging—two things that can be elusive for neurodivergent individuals.
Kristof’s words remind us that acceptance isn’t just a gift we give to others; it’s something we all crave.
For those living with neurological conditions, feeling accepted can be the difference between isolation and connection, between despair and hope.
Kristof’s words resonate deeply:
“Acceptance and belonging are what we all strive for; words are the bridge that can take us there.”
Words as a Lifeline
Kristof’s journey is a powerful reminder that words are more than just tools for communication—they’re lifelines.
Whether it’s through a well-timed card, a patient conversation, or the pages of a book, words can heal, connect, and transform.
If you or someone you know is navigating life with a neurological condition, remember that the right words can make all the difference.