In this episode, Jeremy Rochford sits down with Robin Tate for a candid, insider conversation about executive function—what it actually is, what it isn’t, and why so many later-in-life diagnosed autistics feel blindsided by it. Drawing from their own lived experience on the spectrum, they cut through the vague labels and clinical fog to explain executive function in plain language: the invisible skills that help you start, stop, plan, shift gears, regulate emotions, and follow through. They name the common traps—confusing executive function challenges with laziness, lack of care, or character flaws—and show how that misunderstanding quietly fuels shame, burnout, and relational friction for adults who spent years trying to “power through” without the right framework.

The conversation moves beyond insight into practical clarity. Jeremy and Robin unpack how executive function challenges often show up differently after diagnosis—when you finally have language for your wiring, but real life still expects performance on demand. They explore why awareness alone doesn’t fix the bottlenecks, how sensory load, stress, and emotional flooding can hijack follow-through, and what supportive systems actually look like for neurodivergent adults trying to build sustainable rhythms. The result is a grounded, validating roadmap for late-diagnosed autistics—and the people who love them—to replace self-blame with tools, compassion, and strategies that make everyday life feel more doable.

To learn more about Robin Tate, please check out https://www.robintatellc.com/

To learn more about NeuroFam, please check out https://www.ourneurofam.com/  

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Music for the show’s intro is provided (with permission) by Matt Langston & EleventySeven. You can check out their awesome stuff here - https://www.eleventysevenisalive.com/
 
Music for the show’s outro is provided (with permission) by Sean Rogers & Shineunder. The band doesn’t exist anymore, but Sean is still doing great work and can be found here - https://heyworldcreative.com/