Description
How Rhythm Can Calm the Nervous System and Support Neurodivergent Brains
What if something as simple as rhythm could help with stress, focus, and regulation in ways many people never expect?
In this episode, I sit down with Dori to talk about how drumming became more than music. What started as a childhood love of tapping on everything grew into a science-based wellness tool she now uses with neurodivergent kids, teens, and adults. Along the way, we talk about the moments that almost pulled her away from music, the surprising reason she came back to it at 47, and what she began noticing in both her own brain and the people she supported.
You’ll hear how rhythm can help calm the body, support attention, and create space for connection. We also get into a bigger conversation about misunderstood neurodivergent learners, hidden strengths, and why so many kids are judged by what they struggle with instead of what they can do.
If you’ve ever felt scattered, overwhelmed, or unsure how to support a neurodivergent person in your life, I think this conversation will stay with you.
About the Guest
Dori Staley is the founder of Next Stage Drumming. She works with children, teens, and adults using drumming-based wellness programs that support focus, stress relief, confidence, and emotional regulation.
Key Timestamps
0:01 - I welcome Dori and we start with her early love of rhythm
0:31 - How childhood tapping turned into a lifelong pull toward music
7:14 - What rhythm felt like to Dori and why it helped her settle
13:04 - Why she auditioned for a band at 47 with no formal drumming background
15:53 - When she realized rhythm was helping neurodivergent brains
20:56 - What drumming can support: focus, stress, regulation, and more
27:53 - What drumming does to the nervous system
47:58 - A simple way to use rhythm even if you don’t have a drum
58:04 - Where to learn more about Dori and her work
Dori's Resource's
Next Stage Drumming - Dori’s main website for her drum therapy and wellness work. It was mentioned as the best place to learn about her programs, sign up for her newsletter, and access a free video. https://nextstagedrumming.com
Listen in if you want a fresh way to think about neurodiversity, regulation, and the power of meeting people where they are.
#Neurodiversity #ADHD #AutismSupport #EmotionalRegulation #DrummingTherapy
Hosted by Reid Miles.
Conversations unfold naturally — no scripts, no rush.
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🌐 More about the show and past episodes: https://podcast.ausha.co/neurodivergantconnection-thecuriousstroyteller
📩 Guest inquiries & media: Reid@AspergersStudio.com
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