In this episode we discuss the concept of Autistic Demand Avoidance. 

Siana differentiates ADA from PDA and speaks from her own experience of how it shows up across a range of areas in her life.

We also check in on Leo's ADHD clinical diagnosis journey. We notice how classic traits of hyperactivity and inattention feature in our lives. 

We then discuss some aspects of privilege and class related to lifestyle and "choice".  We also introduce a few considerations which seem pertinent to therapeutic relationships. 

We do, of course, distract and delight in words and meanings along the way ... which quite possibly says as much about what we are talking about as what we actually say  💛🧡

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This episode is a fairly run-of-the-mill chit chat from a random Thursday in the middle of September.

Themes include doing things for the first time, seasonal rhythms, breathing, special interests and the significance of "perspective".

We showcase Leo's new drone and Siana would like to apologise for "droning" on a bit about her cough.

Bonus SPIN-ny energy at the end 🧡💛

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One of Leo's drone videos

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Leo is currently on the NHS pathway towards trying out ADHD medication.  We discuss his experience of the assessment process so far. We then explore Siana's experience as a parent navigating the system.

We speak about common obstacles and concerns within the process. We also reflect on whether medication might have changed outcomes for each of us in education and / or the workplace. 

We attempt to navigate elements of privilege sensitively and acknowledge that this is an initial conversation which was hope will spark further discussion and reflection. 

We would love to hear your thoughts! 🧡💛

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This episode is an excerpt from a follow up conversation we had regarding the gap between season 1 and 2.

We reflect on a health situation Leo had to navigate over the summer. We discuss aspects of communication within the health care system and also between us. We also notice our tendency as autistic people to deal with what is in front of us and then to appear to “forget” about it until there is an unconscious reminder.  

The good news is that Leo is fine and recovered. Thank-you for listening and for all your support.

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This episode contains our reflections around beginning a new podcast season.  

We discuss the gap in recording and wonder about some aspects of this. We explore the concepts of autistic burnout and energy cycles. We also speak about inherent neurodivergence as opposed to the signs of neurodivergent distress or trauma.

It will be no surprise that we digress lots. We conclude that we will continue to record for another “season”.

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Welcome to Season 2 💛 🧡

This episode was recorded just after Leo returned from Autscape.

We explore his experience and broaden this out to discuss the hallmarks of wider autistic culture.  

We then reflect on some of the perils and pitfalls inherent in making the transition "back" and between autistic land and neurotypical society.

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Autscape

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This episode opens with a discussion of the "Hamilton" theatre production. Leo delights in the complexity of the rapid lyrical genius, enjoying being caught up in the current and looking forward to revisiting it again and again. Siana's experience, in contrast, is one of overwhelm and withdrawal.

This is an example of polarities often seen within the autistic community and the significance of context when looking at our capacities and challenges.

Siana reflects further on wearing Loop™ earplugs to manage overstimulation - at the theatre, on the tube and recently when out in a social context. We compare this with other ways in which we and others use all sorts of "accommodations" to manage our external and internal relationships and interactions.

We then switch to speaking about communication within a therapeutic context, including aspects such as body language, eye contact and silence.

Thank you for listening to us. If you have any comments or feedback, positive or negative, we are open and would love to hear from you.

Loop earplugs

Radiolab - Stravinsky's Rite of Spring

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In this episode we discuss Leo's recent experience of attending a training course.  

We track many details of this, from the planning to sensory challenges and considerations, to social interactions and disclosure.

We notice distinctive aspects of this which we experience differently as autistic people, many of which might not be predictable or discernible to our non autistic peers and training facilitators. 

Again for this episode we have cut most of the tangential chunks in order to maintain focus for the finished edit, however we may combine all the tangents for a future release!

Thank you for all your support and, as ever, please get in touch with us at [email protected] if you have any comments or reflections you would like to share.

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Deb Dana & Polyvagal Theory

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This episode chronicles some of Siana’s travel experiences on a recent trip to London with her daughter. We speak about navigating public transport systems, accommodation and orientation.

We highlight things which we find helpful and comforting as autistic people, such as familiar places and foods and building time buffers into our plans. We also focus on the significance of asking for help – both when that goes well and when it doesn’t. We note the anxiety and vulnerability we can experience with cumulative challenges and unpredictable situations.

We have cut out many of the tangents to keep the episode focused on travel aspects but there were many enjoyable and fun times. 😊

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This episode is an exploration of some aspects of empathic communication and connection which may be distinctive for us as autistic people.  We notice the significance of this within the contexts of friendship and therapy.

This dialogue also demonstrates some elements of a repair process and how - within a safe relational space - interpersonal dynamics can be discussed without defensiveness.

As ever, we value any feedback you may have - you can reach us at [email protected]

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