AlphaBites

Autism, ADHD and the Myths We Need to Retire, with Cathy Wassell

This week we're joined by Cathy Wassell, founder and CEO of Autistic Girls Network and The Haven, and author of the best-selling book Nurturing Your Autistic Young Person.

Cathy's own journey started when her daughter was diagnosed autistic at 13, during a mental health crisis, after years of nobody suggesting it. That experience led her to build one of the UK's leading communities supporting autistic girls and their families, and more recently, an online school for young people who've fallen out of mainstream education entirely.

In this episode we talk about:

• Why girls are diagnosed on average six years later than boys, and what "internalising" vs "externalising" autism actually means
• Masking (and why it's rarely a conscious choice, especially in kids)
• How to spot the signs at home when your child holds it together all day at school
• Why autism and ADHD so often show up together, and what that "tug of war" in the brain can look like day to day
• The myth of autistic people lacking empathy, and why Cathy wants it retired for good.
• Why autonomy is one of the most important things you can offer a neurodivergent child, even when it's hard to hand over control
• What The Haven is doing differently for young people who've been out of school for months or years

A few of Cathy's key lines:

• Masking is a survival technique, not a deliberate act
• Behaviour that looks "sudden" almost never is, you just didn't see the build-up
• If you accept your child's autonomy, you have to accept they get to say no sometimes too
• Some autistic people, especially autistic girls, have hyper-empathy, not none at all

Resources mentioned:

• Autistic Girls Network's white paper, Autism, Girls and Keeping It All Inside (includes their symptom checklist)
• The Haven, Autistic Girls Network's online school
• Books recommended by Cathy's trustee Emily, and by Pete Wharmby

Find Cathy and Autistic Girls Network:

• Website: autisticgirlsnetwork.org
• The Haven: thehavenonline.school
• Facebook, Instagram, YouTube and LinkedIn: Autistic Girls Network

In this conversation, Kate and Lucy speak with Becky Congreve, a teacher, phase leader, and founder of Cash Academy — and someone who knows first-hand what happens when money is never talked about at home.

Becky grew up in a household where money was firmly behind closed doors. The most she got was "we can't afford it" — no explanation, no conversation, just move on. It wasn't until she lost her mum at 16 that the full picture emerged: loans on top of loans, funding a lifestyle that looked fine from the outside. That moment became the catalyst for everything she does now.

Because here's the thing — that silence didn't end with our parents' generation. In 2026, a third of parents still don't talk openly to their children about money. Not because they don't want to, but because it still feels uncomfortable, or they don't feel confident enough themselves. Sound familiar?

Becky is on a mission to change that. The discussion digs into why financial literacy in schools barely scratches the surface — coins in maths, a bit of PSHE, and not much else — and why that gap matters more than ever in a world of tap-to-pay, Roblox dollars, and influencers being paid to flog products your kids are convinced they need. She challenges the idea that money is an adult topic, and makes a genuinely compelling case for weaving these conversations into everyday family life — the supermarket, the holiday budget, the moment your child asks for the third activity this term.

Becky shares how her own seven-year-old has already saved £300 towards horse riding lessons, simply because she was given the knowledge and the agency to make that choice herself. No tears, no tantrums — just questions. That's what happens when you swap "we can't afford it" for "let me show you why."

We also go inside the Cash Academy pop-up money town — a hands-on, immersive workshop that travels into schools and lets children act as taxpayers, government officials, and consumers. It links to maths, PSHE, and oracy without adding to teachers' plates, and every single school Becky has visited (bar two) has seen children put the NHS at the top of their government spending list. Make of that what you will.

This episode is a call to be the generation that actually breaks the cycle — that raises children who are curious about money, not scared of it. It starts at home. It starts now.

Everything that goes with this episode is on our Substack. Tips, prompts, the full community. Come find us 👇 AlphaBites Substack

In this conversation, Kate and Lucy speak with Matt Bawler, an early years education specialist passionate about transforming how we support children's mental health and development from the very beginning. Drawing on his childhood in Kenya and his career in education, Matt explores how early experiences shape lifelong wellbeing, and why the foundational years are critical in building resilience, agency, and emotional literacy.

The discussion challenges traditional education models that prioritise knowledge transmission over human development, and instead advocates for a shift toward nurturing confidence, self-esteem, and character. Matt shares practical insights on how storytelling, play, and safe risk-taking can help children thrive, and highlights the importance of collaboration between parents, educators, and children. Ultimately, this episode reframes resilience—not as toughness, but as the ability to seek support—and calls for a more proactive, preventative approach to mental health.

In this conversation, Kate and Lucy interview Jas, co-founder of the Luna app, which aims to provide a safe and supportive platform for teens to learn about health, wellness, and emotional well-being. They discuss the evolution of information sources for teens, the importance of addressing their concerns, and how Luna is designed to be a trusted resource for both teens and their parents. The conversation highlights the app's development journey, the incorporation of teen feedback, and the future direction of Luna in supporting both teens and their families. Takeaways

• Luna app is designed to support teens with health and wellness information.
• The way teens access information has shifted from magazines to online platforms.
• Luna provides expert-reviewed content tailored for young people.
• The app encourages open communication between teens and parents.
• Luna has nearly 200,000 members and is expanding internationally.
• Feedback from teens is crucial in shaping the app's features.
• Periods and mental health are primary concerns for teens today.
• Luna aims to educate both teens and their parents about health issues.
• The app uses AI to provide timely responses to teen inquiries.
• Luna is committed to maintaining safety and trust as it grows.

Titles

• Empowering Teens with the Luna App
• Navigating Teen Health in the Digital Age

Sound Bites

• "Luna is the app we all needed."
• "Luna is for them, by them."
• "Trust is our company identity."

Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Luna App and Its Purpose 02:27 The Evolution of Teen Information Sources 05:29 The Role of Luna in Supporting Teens 07:37 Journey and Growth of the Luna App 10:16 Inception of the Idea for Luna 12:03 Teen Involvement in App Development 14:25 Understanding Teen Concerns and Trends 17:45 The Importance of Normalization and Community 18:52 Evolving with Technology and Parental Support 22:27 Key Messages for Parents and Teens Links

Find Luna app here

Connect with Jas Schrembi - Stothart on LinkedIn

Join the conversation with Lucy and Kate on Instagram and find out more about Learn Happy.

If you're interested in joining the Game Changers Collective Community, head here.

This episode is supported by WUKA his episode is proudly supported by WUKA - the UK's leading period wear brand creating reusable, leak-proof underwear designed to replace disposable pads and tampons.

Founded in 2017, WUKA (which stands for "Wake Up Kick Ass") is on a mission to make periods more comfortable, sustainable and stigma-free, with innovative absorbent fabrics that keep you dry, secure and confident all day long. Their products are not only better for your body, but also better for the planet with each pair helping to reduce the hundreds of single-use products that would otherwise end up in landfill. WUKA is helping girls and women rethink their periods with comfort, confidence and sustainability at the core.

WUKA believeS period care can be more than just functional - it can be freeing. Here's what guides them:

Fearless expression: Say it straight. Wear it proud. Stand tall in who you are.

Breaking the mould: We don't follow rules. We rewrite them.

Shared wisdom: All flows are valid. All stories are powerful.

True compassion: Real talk. Real care. Real products that work.

WUKA are proudly female-led, BCorp certified, and built on the belief that period care should be inclusive, sustainable, and stigma-free - always.

In this powerful episode, Kate and Lucy speak with Ruby Raut - entrepreneur and founder of WUKA - about transforming the way we talk about periods, bodies, and confidence.

Ruby shares her journey from growing up in Nepal to building one of the UK's most recognised period-wear brands. She reflects on her childhood as a brave, curious child and the cultural taboos surrounding menstruation that shaped her early experiences. From being excluded during her period to witnessing the stigma faced by women in her community, Ruby explains how these experiences fuelled her determination to create change.

What began as a passion for sustainability quickly turned into an entrepreneurial journey. Ruby takes us behind the scenes of building WUKA - from early prototypes and market research to launching on Kickstarter and eventually securing partnerships with major retailers including Tesco, Boots and Decathlon.

The conversation also explores the wider mission behind the brand: breaking stigma, improving menstrual education, and helping young people feel confident and informed about their bodies. Ruby shares how initiatives like school education packs and WUKA Talks are helping bridge knowledge gaps for children, parents, and teachers.

From innovative period swimwear for young athletes to tackling the reality that children are entering puberty earlier than ever, Ruby's work is helping reshape the conversation around menstrual health - making it more inclusive, sustainable, and empowering for the next generation.

Takeaways

• Cultural taboos around menstruation still impact girls around the world

• Education is key to reducing shame and stigma around periods

• Sustainable menstrual products can transform confidence and environmental impact

• Entrepreneurship often starts with solving a personal problem

• Children are entering puberty earlier, making early education essential

• Inclusive products help young people participate fully in sport and daily life

• Media and storytelling can accelerate awareness and social change

• Resilience and perseverance are essential in building a business

Sound Bites

"Periods should never hold anyone back."

"Education removes shame."

"Sometimes the best businesses start with a personal problem."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Ruby Raut 00:23 Growing up in Nepal and cultural attitudes to periods 00:45 Early experiences with menstruation and stigma 01:19 The emotional and social impact of period taboos 02:14 Challenges girls face without support or facilities 03:03 Ruby's journey into entrepreneurship 04:08 Developing the first WUKA prototypes 05:28 Launching on Kickstarter 07:22 Media attention and retail partnerships 10:46 Education initiatives and WUKA Talks 12:18 Period swimwear for children and athletes 15:05 Early puberty and the importance of education 18:16 Resilience and building a business 22:36 Cultural background shaping Ruby's mission 30:23 The future of WUKA

Links

Find WUKA here

Connect with Ruby Raut on LinkedIn

Join the conversation with Lucy and Kate on Instagram and find out more about Learn Happy.

If you're interested in joining the Game Changers Collective Community, head here.

This episode is supported by WUKA his episode is proudly supported by WUKA - the UK's leading period wear brand creating reusable, leak-proof underwear designed to replace disposable pads and tampons.

Founded in 2017, WUKA (which stands for "Wake Up Kick Ass") is on a mission to make periods more comfortable, sustainable and stigma-free, with innovative absorbent fabrics that keep you dry, secure and confident all day long. Their products are not only better for your body, but also better for the planet with each pair helping to reduce the hundreds of single-use products that would otherwise end up in landfill. WUKA is helping girls and women rethink their periods with comfort, confidence and sustainability at the core.

WUKA believeS period care can be more than just functional - it can be freeing. Here's what guides them:

Fearless expression: Say it straight. Wear it proud. Stand tall in who you are.

Breaking the mould: We don't follow rules. We rewrite them.

Shared wisdom: All flows are valid. All stories are powerful.

True compassion: Real talk. Real care. Real products that work.

WUKA are proudly female-led, BCorp certified, and built on the belief that period care should be inclusive, sustainable, and stigma-free - always.

In this amazing episode, Kate and Lucy speak to Emma Lewry, former primary headteacher and creator of the COOL Curriculum, about the transformative power of play-based learning. Emma shares how her own childhood, filled with outdoor adventures and imaginative play, shaped her passion for education and ultimately led her to develop a curriculum that champions limitless learning through play.

She walks us through the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) in England, explaining its vital role in early development and how learning often becomes more formal as children move into Key Stage 1. Emma advocates for a more balanced approach — one that values academic progress alongside the rich learning that happens through play.

We explore the COOL Curriculum and how it integrates play-based learning into everyday classroom practice, giving children ownership, choice, and a voice in their learning journey. Emma also highlights the challenges parents face in navigating the education system and why schools must embrace play as an essential part of child development.

This conversation is packed with practical insights for educators and parents alike — and is a powerful reminder that when children are engaged, motivated, and allowed to learn through play, they truly thrive.

Takeaways

Children learn through play — and play is complex and meaningful. Learning isn't either formal teaching or play; it's about balance. Play should be valued both in school and at home. Children thrive when they have ownership over their learning. Boredom can spark creativity and exploration. Play-based learning supports deeper understanding and retention. Parents should ask schools how play is embedded in learning. Engagement and motivation drive effective learning. Everyday moments can be turned into playful learning opportunities. Children's ideas often lead to the most powerful learning experiences.

Titles

Unlocking Limitless Learning: The Power of Play-Based Education From Play to Progress: Emma Lewry on Early Childhood Learning Why Play Matters in Education Redefining Learning Through the COOL Curriculum Creating Engaged Learners Through Play

Sound Bites

"Children learn through play — and play is powerful." "It's not either or; it's about balance." "Recognising the value of play is crucial."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Emma Lewry and Her Background 02:05 The Importance of Outdoor Play and Imagination 04:17 Understanding EYFS and Play-Based Learning 08:47 The Spectrum of Play: Free Play vs Play-Based Learning 16:36 Introducing the COOL Curriculum 21:23 The Impact of Play on Learning and Engagement 27:03 Incorporating Play at Home 33:31 Key Takeaways and Final Thoughts

Find Emma on Instagram here

Find the COOL Curriculum here

Join the conversation with Lucy and Kate on Instagram here and to find out more about Learn Happy, head here

If you're interested in joining the Game Changers Collective Community, head here

During our discussion with Kimberley Oliff-Cooper, founder of Thrive Now, we explored the role of education in shaping young minds, the importance of meeting children where they are, and how schools can move towards a more holistic, future-ready approach. In this inspiring and deeply human conversation, we dive into Kimberley's powerful vision for a more inclusive, progressive system that truly puts children's emotional wellbeing first. Kimberley reflects on her upbringing, shaped by loving and supportive parents, her father's work in the music industry alongside his commitment to community service, and her mother's gentle yet influential nature.

She opens up about the personal challenges her family faced, how these experiences built resilience, and why empathy, integrity, and connection are at the heart of everything she does today.

We were so grateful to have Kimberley on the podcast — a truly uplifting and thought-provoking conversation that highlights the power of love-led education.

Takeaways

Love and empathy are essential for personal growth and learning. Integrity plays a key role in achieving meaningful goals. Supportive parents can profoundly shape a child's future. Education should be inclusive and responsive to individual needs. Community service strengthens connection and development. Personal challenges can build resilience and strength. Gentleness can be a powerful leadership quality. Positive role models are vital for young people. Schools should adapt to each child, not the other way around. Strong support networks make all the difference.

Titles

Empathy and Integrity: Kimberley Oliff-Cooper's Journey in Education Redefining Education with Kimberley Oliff-Cooper The Power of Love in Learning Building Inclusive Education for the Future From Community to Classroom: Kimberley's Vision Progressive Education Through Empathy Creating a More Human Education System

Sound Bites

"Love and empathy are crucial for growth." "Integrity is at the heart of everything we do." "Supportive parents really shape futures." "Education should be inclusive and adaptable." "Community service changes lives."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Kimberley's Journey 00:17 Family Influence and Core Values 00:26 Overcoming Challenges and Building Resilience 00:59 The Role of Community Service and Role Models 01:54 Kimberley's Vision for Progressive Education

Find Kimberley on Instagram here

Find Thrive Now here

Join the conversation with Lucy and Kate on Instagram and to find out more about Learn Happy, head here

If you're interested in joining the Game Changers Collective Community, head here

In this one of a kind, enlightening conversation we speak to Cindy Gallop, founder of Make Love Not Porn and discuss the critical need for open dialogue about sex education. She shares her personal journey and the inception of her platform, which aims to destigmatise sexuality and promote healthy sexual attitudes. Our discussion emphasises the importance of age-appropriate sex education, the challenges parents face in discussing these topics, and the impact of technology on youth. Cindy advocates for early conversations about sex and porn, highlighting the need for comprehensive resources to support parents and educators. The conversation culminates in the launch of 'Make Love Not Porn Academy', a platform designed to provide accessible sex education resources for all ages. We were delighted to have Cindy on the podcast - an absolute must listen.

Takeaways

• Make Love Not Porn aims to destigmatise sexuality.
• Open conversations about sex are crucial for healthy attitudes.
• Age-appropriate sex education should start as early as possible.
• Parents often feel shame and embarrassment discussing sex.
• Sextortion is a growing issue affecting teens.
• Technology has outpaced sex education in schools.
• Cindy's personal experiences shaped her views on sex education.
• The importance of love in discussions about sex.
• Make Love Not Porn Academy will provide comprehensive resources.
• Parents should encourage open dialogue about sexual feelings.

Titles

• Revolutionizing Sex Education with Cindy Gallop
• Make Love Not Porn: A New Approach to Sexuality

Sound Bites

• "We are building the Google of sex education."
• "Talk about the pleasure of sex."
• "Open up a channel of communication around sex."

Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Make Love Not Porn 01:10 Cindy's Journey and the Birth of Make Love Not Porn 04:01 The Importance of Real Sex Education 05:23 Age-Appropriate Sex Education 11:08 Barriers to Open Conversations About Sex 14:39 The Impact of Technology on Sexual Education 20:46 Launching Make Love Not Porn Academy 22:06 Building the Make Love Not Porn Academy 27:05 The Importance of Early Sex Education 30:07 Personal Experiences and Cultural Influences 33:15 Healing Through Education and Normalization 37:22 Encouraging Open Conversations About Love and Sex

Find Cindy on Instagram here

Find Cindy's platform Make Love Not Porn Academy here

Join the conversation with Lucy and Kate on Instagram and to find out more about Learn Happy, head here

If you are interested in joining the Game Changers Collective Community, head here

In this insightful podcast episode, Dr. Beth Lane and Narinder Gill discuss their innovative work in AI education. They share their backgrounds, the importance of AI literacy, and their vision for the Institute of AI Education.

The conversation covers the challenges and opportunities in integrating AI into schools, emphasising critical thinking and problem-solving. They also highlight the need for collaboration with industry and the importance of making AI education accessible to all.

Takeaways

• AI is a tool created by humans, not inherently intelligent.

• AI literacy is crucial for effective tool usage.

• AI education should focus on critical thinking and problem-solving.

• Collaboration with industry is essential for funding AI education.

• AI education must be accessible to all, not just privileged schools.

• The Institute of AI Education aims to cut through the noise around AI.

• AI integration should enhance, not replace, existing curriculum.

• AI education requires a community effort involving parents and teachers.

• AI literacy is not optional; it's a necessity for future generations.

• The Institute seeks to create sustainable, high-quality educational resources.

Sound Bites

• AI is a tool.

• AI literacy is crucial.

• Focus on critical thinking.

• Collaboration is essential.

• Accessibility for all schools.

• Cutting through AI noise.

• Enhance, don't replace curriculum.

• Community effort in education.

• AI literacy is a necessity.

• This isn't about using more screens - it's a mindshift towards problem solving and critical thinking

Chapters

• 00:00:00 Introduction and Backgrounds

• 00:03:00 Defining AI and Its Importance

• 00:06:00 Challenges in AI Education

• 00:09:00 Vision for the Institute of AI Education

• 00:12:00 Collaboration and Accessibility

• 00:15:00 Conclusion and Future Outlook

Find Kate's website here.

www.learnhappyclub.com

Find Kate on Instagram here.

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Join the conversation: Email us at [email protected]

Follow Us on Instagram: This is Alpha Bites

Learn More About Us:

• Kate: @‌learnhappy_co

• Lucy: @‌builddyslexia_co

Podcast Sponsor: Learn Happy Club

In this engaging conversation, Shilpa shares her diverse childhood experiences and how they shaped her understanding of emotional intelligence and creativity.

She discusses the importance of teaching children about self-knowledge and emotional resilience, especially in an increasingly AI-driven world.

Shilpa also highlights her initiative, Mindset, Mimi and Me, which aims to provide children with the tools to navigate their emotions and thoughts.

The discussion emphasizes the shared journey of growth between parents and children, advocating for a culture of self-discovery and understanding.

Takeaways

• Shilpa's childhood was shaped by diverse experiences and relationships.

• Education was a significant focus in Shilpa's upbringing.

• Shilpa discovered coaching in her early 30s, which transformed her confidence.

• Mindset, Mimi and Me was born out of a desire to teach children emotional intelligence.

• Shilpa combines creativity with self-development in her work.

• The importance of self-knowledge is heightened in an AI-driven world.

• Parents and children grow together in their emotional journeys.

• Shilpa emphasizes the need for honesty in parenting.

• Creating a culture of self-knowledge can lead to a better world.

• Shilpa's upcoming book focuses on self-worth and not comparing oneself.

Sound Bites

• "What makes us human?"

• "It's about having those anchors."

Chapters

00:00 Diverse Beginnings: Shilpa's Childhood Experiences

04:59 The Journey to Mindset, Mimi and Me

11:24 Bringing Emotional Understanding to Children

14:14 Navigating the AI-Driven World

17:54 Supporting Parents and Children Together

20:01 Creating a Paradigm Shift in Education

21:43 Upcoming Book: Pebble Finds Its Pace

22:46 Lessons for Parents: What to Stop Doing

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Join the conversation: Email us at [email protected]

Follow Us on Instagram: This is Alpha Bites

Learn More About Us:

• Kate: @‌learnhappy_co

• Lucy: @‌builddyslexia_co

Podcast Sponsor: Learn Happy Club