In this episode I chat to the inspirational James Hunt. James is a devoted father and advocate for autism awareness. He shares his experiences raising two autistic sons and building a supportive community through social media and his clothing brand. We explore the nuances of communication, acceptance, and the power of connection in family life with autism. In this episode:

• James shares his motivations behind creating the "Stories About Autism" Instagram account and the impact it has had on his family and others.
• The significance of community, sharing, and catharsis in mental health and advocacy.
• Deep insights into non-speaking versus non-verbal communication and the importance of understanding different ways autistic individuals communicate.
• Celebrating small joys and moments of achievement, especially breakthroughs in communication like texting.
• The story behind James Hunt's clothing brand advocating neurodiversity and its role in fostering acceptance and connection.
• The process of writing a heartfelt book about navigating autism, life's unexpected challenges, and finding hope amid difficulty.
• James's hopes for his sons' future, emphasizing independence, happiness, and experiencing the world fully.
• Practical advice for families, parents, and allies to create inclusive environments and embrace neurodivergence.

Resources & Links:

• Love Needs No Words - James Hunt's Book
• Stories About Autism Instagram
• SAA Clothing Instagram
• James Hunt's Advocate Jumper

• Instagram
• Facebook
• Website

Note: James Hunt’s book "Love Needs No Words" is available now at major bookstores, including Amazon and local independents. The shop in Burnham-on-Crouch in Essex offers community-focused support and merchandise, that encourage acceptance and understanding worldwide.

In this episode, Caroline Thor, a professional organizer and Konmari consultant, shares practical insights specifically tailored to neurodivergent households. We explore personalized strategies for managing clutter, routines, and overwhelm, emphasizing that what works for one family may not work for another. Key topics:

• The importance of personalized and flexible organizing systems for neurodivergent families
• How to approach clutter and tidying when children and parents are neurodivergent
• The impact of environment on neurodivergent wellbeing and calmness
• Practical tips for managing children's bedrooms, toy clutter, and routines
• Strategies for adults to maintain tidiness and reduce overwhelm
• Using gamification, timers, and visual labels to foster independence and consistency
• The significance of knowing what "good enough" looks like for your family
• Handling emotional reactions to clutter and physical space management
• The benefits of systems like "tidy in 15 minutes" and body doubling sessions
• Accepting individual differences and avoiding judgment in household organization

• Living Clutter Free Forever Podcast
• Caroline Thor - Website
• Marie Kondo's The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up by Marie Kondo
• Konmari Method
• Labels and Storage Solutions

• Instagram
• Website

Rethinking Autism and ADHD: An Inclusive & Neuro-Affirming Perspective with Dr. James Winkworth. Discover how recent developments challenge traditional views on autism and ADHD. This episode offers insights into neurodivergent experiences, diagnostic practices, and the importance of affirming identities, especially for girls and women.

Key Topics:

• The evolution of autism diagnosis and understanding
• Why autism and ADHD often go unnoticed in girls and women
• The limitations of traditional assessment tools like ADOS and alternatives
• The role of masking in masking neurodivergent traits
• The importance of neuroaffirming practices and cultural differences in understanding autism
• How societal narratives impact mental health and acceptance
• Practical advice for parents and educators on supporting neurodivergent children
• The concept of "cultural difference" versus "disorder" in neurodiversity
• The significance of positive self-identity and accurate information in diagnostic processes

Resources & Links:

• Cognition Clinical Psychology – Private assessment and neurodiversity support
• Autism Spectrum Disorder Diagnostic Criteria – DSM-5 overview
• Dr. James Winkworth on LinkedIn
• Uta Thrift's Perspective on Autism Spectrum – Recent debates on masking and spectrum understanding
• The Autistic Self Advocacy Network – Resources promoting neuroaffirming practices

• LinkedIn
• Cognition Clinical Psychology Website

Connect with Dr. James Winkworth:This episode promotes a compassionate, evolving view of neurodivergence—emphasizing respect, understanding, and the importance of authentic identities.

You can find James and all his info at https://cognitionclinicalpsychology.co.uk

This episode features Dr. Helen Wall, a GP and menopause specialist, discussing women’s health, hormonal impacts on mental health, and the importance of personalized treatment approaches. We explore PMDD, hormone sensitivity, and how hormonal fluctuations influence mental and emotional well-being, especially in neurodivergent women and during perimenopause.

KEY TOPICS

• ​The significance of body language and empathetic listening in healthcare
• ​The underfunding and slow progress of women's health research
• ​The influence of sex hormones on brain function and emotional regulation
• ​The prevalence and severity of PMDD, especially its link with ADHD
• ​Hormonal fluctuations during perimenopause and their impact on mood
• ​Progesterone sensitivity and responses to synthetic vs. body-identical hormones
• ​The stigmas around antidepressant use and the importance of individualized care
• ​The potential role of HRT and SSRIs in managing PMDD and menopausal symptoms
• ​The need for better education among clinicians about female hormones’ effects
• ​Practical tips for women to advocate for themselves in healthcare settings

Resources:

• ​British Menopause Society
• ​HRT - NICE Guidelines
• ​Understanding PMDD - Scientific Paper

Connect with Dr Helen:

• ​Instagram
• ​Website

Join me for a slightly chaotic conversation with Jon as we explore the nuances of autism, neurodivergence, and how these experiences shape daily life. We cover everything from sensory sensitivities and special interests to social masking and shared coping strategies — a truly heartfelt, insightful and slightly crazy discussion (thanks ADHD!). In this episode:

• Personal stories highlighting sensory sensitivities, including fabric textures and food aversions
• How masking and masking privileges function in different environments
• The role of special interests like Lego, Pokemon, and books in providing comfort and structure
• The importance of routines, routines, and grounding rituals like matching drinks and charity shops
• Unique perspectives on social communication, over-explaining, and interpreting humor
• The impact of neurodivergence on management and work experiences
• Navigating change: moving house, career shifts
• Joy in shared passions and understanding, from TV shows like Bob’s Burgers and Fraggle Rock to collections of memorabilia
• The significance of affirming connection and community among neurodivergent individuals

Resources & Links:

• Autism Spectrum Disorder - Mayo Clinic
• Autism Acceptance and Neurodiversity Resources
• The Autism Research Institute
• Book: NeuroTribes by Steve Silberman
• Bob's Burgers - Official YouTube Channel
• Fraggle Rock Official Site
• Vinted - Buy and Sell Secondhand Clothes

Connect with Jon:

• Jon's Instagram
• AuDHD or just a bit weird podcast

Ever felt the thrill and nerves of meeting someone you've only known online? Today’s the big day! Meeting John for the first time after months of voice notes. Jon and I planned a fun day out in London, diving deep into our shared special interests!

I’m juggling last-minute meal prep for the kids, and honestly? It’s a bit chaotic! But the excitement is real.

Meeting someone in person after connecting online is a whole different ballgame. Will I be my true self or put on a mask? Who knows?

Let’s see how this unfolds!

In this episode I chat to Chrissy and Sarah from ADHD Peri Punks, discussing the intersection of ADHD, perimenopause, and mental health. They share their personal journeys, the challenges they faced, and the importance of community and support. The podcast aims to raise awareness about these issues, particularly for women who may be navigating similar experiences. They emphasize the need for authenticity, self-advocacy, and the importance of educating partners and family members about neurodivergence and women's health.

In this episode I chat to Liz, an ADHD and executive function coach, who has previously worked in health and social care for 30 years. She is a coach through Green Thread ADHD Coaching, and an associate with Foundations Assessments, coaching adults, young people and parents who may be formally diagnosed with ADHD and/or autism or suspect/display traits.

In this conversation, we discuss the intricacies of ADHD coaching, exploring Liz's personal journey into coaching, the importance of understanding executive functioning, and how tailored coaching can help individuals with ADHD and autism. We delve into the significance of recognizing burnout, the need for self-awareness, and the challenges faced by parents of neurodivergent children. Liz emphasizes the importance of creating a supportive environment and the role of coaching in navigating workplace accommodations and personal growth.