In this episode of the NDV Podcast, Nicole Wareing sharesher personal and professional journey with dyslexia, discussing the challenges she faced in education, the importance of support systems, and her passion formental health advocacy. She highlights the need for understanding and accommodations for neurodivergent individuals, the resilience she developedthrough adversity, and her aspirations to make a difference in the lives of families navigating similar experiences. Nicole emphasizes the significance of emotional intelligence, creative learning strategies, and the power of connection in fostering well-being and growth.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Nicole's Journey

07:24 Understanding Dyslexia and Its Challenges

12:29 Navigating Misunderstandings in Education

16:03 Building Resilience Through Adversity

21:27 Support Systems and Accommodations

30:11 Career Path and Passion for Mental Health

37:26 Making a Difference in Families' Lives

44:33 Redesigning Support for Neurodivergent Individuals

47:54 Personal Strategies for Well-Being

Links:CAMHS (Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services)OXPCF – Oxfordshire Parent Carer ForumAccess to Work (UK Government)NHS Mental Health & Neurodevelopmental ServicesDyslexia Information - British Dyslexia Association Ambiguous Loss explained

Mario Kart

Spider Man

Tom Holland

Linkin Park - One More Light

In this powerful and deeply human conversation, we’re joined by Kay Louise Aldred, Development Lead at Neurodiverse Connection, who shares her journey of late diagnosis, self-understanding, and holistic healing.

Diagnosed as autistic at 47 and meeting the criteria for ADHD, Kay reflects on how her children’s diagnoses led her to seek her own — validating years of challenges and finally helping her depathologise her identity. Through grief, discovery, and growth, Kay found belonging and empowerment in community and embodiment.

We explore:
The experience of late diagnosis and the rollercoaster of emotions that follow;
The connection between trauma, chronic burnout, and unmet neurodivergent needs;
The body–mind relationship, menopause, and how typical medical advice often fails neurodivergent women;
Kay’s Neurodivergent Wellbeing Approach, grounded in compassion, sensory awareness, and nervous system regulation;
Why “less is more” when it comes to healing and why slowing down creates safety and self-acceptance.

Kay shares practical wisdom — from grounding in nature and rest to cultivating an internal voice of kindness. We also unpack the harms of behavioural modification methods like PBS and ABA, and why it’s time to replace them with curiosity and self-compassion.

This episode is a reminder that being different isn’t something to fix — it’s something to embrace.

Links:

Kay Louise Aldred

Kay’s books

Neurodiverse Connection

PBS & ABA research —campaign edition

Embodied education

Alanis Morissette - Ironic

Simon & Garfunkel - Sound of Silence

In this episode, I’m joined by John Clark — afilmmaker, scriptwriter, director, and advocate with lived experience of autism. Diagnosed with Asperger’s at just four years old, John’s journey has been one of self-discovery, resilience, and creative expression.

John shares how, as a child, he struggled with socialinteraction and masking, often feeling “weird” or isolated until open conversations with his mum helped him begin to understand himself. In his twenties, the constant fatigue from masking became overwhelming, but letting goof it brought him a sense of liberation.

We dive into how his lived experience has directly inspiredhis filmmaking. From Aspergers and What of It?—a finalist in the National Autistic Society’s Autism Uncut competition—to Snapshot, which highlighted the barriers autistic people face in employment, John has used film to challenge misconceptions, depict the realities of stress andanxiety, and spotlight the importance of reasonable adjustments in the workplace.

John also talks about his latest project, Idøle,inspired by research with neurodivergent and disabled communities as well as his wife’s experiences with fibromyalgia. The film addresses microaggressions,stigma around disability benefits, and the devastating impact of diagnostic overshadowing in the medical system. With crowdfunding plans in the works, Johnhopes to bring this important story to life.

Beyond filmmaking, John delivers the Oliver McGowanTraining, advocates for better understanding of hidden disabilities, and reflects on his unexpected but rewarding journey into fatherhood. We also discuss the challenges autistic people face in recruitment, the dilemma ofdisclosing neurodivergence to employers, and recent government changes to PIP.

This is a powerful conversation about creativity, advocacy,and the reality of living — and thriving — as an autistic adult in a world full of barriers.

Links:

National Autistic Society - John Clark

National Autistic Society

I have Asperger’s – And What of it? SnapshotSia film - Music Iambic 9 Poetry - Squarepusher

Oliver McGowan training

In this episode of the NDV Podcast, I sit down with MandyRichardson, who shares her journey as the mum of Alex, a neurodivergentyoung man and past guest of the podcast.

Mandy reflects on what it was like raising Alex more than 20years ago, when there was little understanding of autism and very limited information available. She talks about the challenges of navigating sensory issues, advocating for support in schools, and the loneliness she often felt atthe beginning of the journey. Through it all, Mandy became Alex’s strongest voice—celebrating every milestone, standing up for his needs, and never losing hope.

She also highlights the amazing teachers, tutors,therapists, family, and friends who played such an important role in Alex’s growth, from helping him manage sensory triggers to encouraging him to thrive in radio, filmmaking, and public speaking. Today, Alex inspires Mandy dailywith his joy, fearlessness, and independence.

Mandy now works in education, helping families withDisability Living Allowance (DLA) applications and advocating for better awareness and support. Her advice to parents is simple but powerful: celebrate every achievement, be your child’s voice, and never give up.

This conversation is about resilience, advocacy, andlove—and a reminder, through the “Welcome to Holland” poem, that even when life takes us on an unexpected path, it can be just as beautiful.

 Links:

Welcome to Holland By Emily Perl Kingsley

National Autistic Society

Alex Richardson

Alex Richardson on the NDV Podcast

When her son Mike was diagnosed as autistic, KasiaMcGavigan’s world shifted overnight. Overwhelmed and determined to help, she poured herself into therapies—until burnout made her rethink everything. Inthis heartfelt conversation, Kasia shares how letting go of constant demands and allowing Mike to grow at his own pace transformed both their lives.

Inspired by Mike’s sensory needs and the challenges offinding clothing that kept him comfortable and safe, Kasia founded Blue Bee Mike, a unique clothing brand designed for autistic children and those with physical disabilities. She tells the story behind the brand’s name, the life-changing impact it’s had for families, and the powerful support networkthat keeps her going.

We explore the balance between therapy and simply being aparent, the importance of mental health, and why it’s okay not to be okay. Kasia’s journey is a testament to turning personal challenges into solutions that bring joy, dignity, and comfort—not just to her own child, but to manyothers.

Links:

Blue Bee Mike

In this episode, I had the privilege of speaking with KimAshwin, a neurodivergent leader, parent, and advocate who’s making real changethrough her work as CEO of Autism Oxford UK. We recorded this conversationright from the heart of Autism Oxford, and it’s one that really stayed with me.

Kim shared her powerful story — from being a teen mum tofounding an organisation that listens, validates, and supports neurodivergentindividuals and families. She was diagnosed with dyslexia at university, afteryears of struggling with reading and feeling like she just wasn’t trying hardenough. That diagnosis shifted everything for her. She told me how dyslexia isnow her leadership superpower, and how, without it, she wouldn’t be where sheis today.

She opened up about her parenting journey with her autisticand PDA daughter and how stepping back and “unparenting” became a complete gamechanger. Despite working within the NHS, Kim still faced judgment around herparenting — an experience many of us will sadly relate to. Her decision toleave the NHS was driven by her desire to support families in a way the systemwouldn’t let her, and that’s how Autism Oxford was born.

We spoke about the battle scars so many of us parents carryfrom having to fight for support, and the power of simply being listened to andbelieved. Kim talked about how services like SENDIASS helped her build theconfidence to advocate and how navigating these systems often means knowingmore than the system itself.

She also told me about her upcoming book, “From Teen Mumto CEO”, which she hopes will inspire others to believe in their potential,even when the odds feel stacked against them. And we talked about George theSensory Bus — a travelling, inclusive play space inspired by her dyslexic brainthat will soon be bringing joy to communities across the county.

Finally, we discussed the government’s recent plans to scrapEHCPs and what that could mean for families like ours.

Kim’s story is one of grit, transformation, and rewritingthe narrative. I left this conversation feeling deeply inspired, and I know youwill too.

Links:

Autism Oxford UK

Kim Ashwin

From Teen Mum to CEO

In this episode, I sit down with Craig Henderson,also known as The Neurodivergent Barber, to hear the inspiring storybehind Craig’s Barbershop—a sensory-friendly, inclusive space that’sbeen featured in The Sunday Times, BBC North West Tonight, TheMirror, and Bolton News.

Craig shares how his own experiences shaped the way hesupports neurodivergent clients, especially those with sensory processingdifferences or who find traditional barbershops overwhelming. We talk about thetools and strategies he uses to make haircuts more comfortable, the importanceof understanding individual needs, and how he works closely with local schoolsto support neurodivergent children and young people.

We also discuss men’s mental health—something Craig isdeeply passionate about. After losing a client to suicide, he began encouragingother barbers to take mental health training, helping to create safer spaceswhere men can open up and feel supported.

Craig opens up about the feedback he’s received fromfamilies, his vision for the future of the hair industry, and the people who’vesupported him along the way. He also answers some of my favourite reflectivequestions, like what his heart would say if it had a voice, which song captureshis journey, and what message he’d give to his younger self.

This conversation is full of heart, purpose, and real-lifeimpact. I left it feeling hopeful—and I think you will too.

Links:Craig Barber Shop The Neurodivergent BarberBloodstream - Tokio Myers

In this episode of the NDV Podcast: Neurodiverse Voices, I had the pleasure of speaking with Susan Liverman – a late diagnosed autistic and ADHD woman, parent to neurodivergent children, and founder of The Kindful, a Community Interest Company focused on wellbeing and mindful support.

We recorded this conversation at the Phoenix Picturehouse, and it was a deeply reflective and honest discussion. Susan opened up about the struggles she faced in her twenties that went unsupported, and how discovering she was neurodivergent later in life felt like a new beginning. It gave her the language and insight to better understand her needs and how to meet them.

With a Masters in Cognitive-Based Therapy and in Mindfulness, Susan spoke about her early interest in self-discovery and positive psychology, long before terms like "autism" or "ADHD" were part of her vocabulary. We explored what mindfulness really is – not about relaxation, but about bringing awareness and compassion to the present moment.

In our conversation, we talked about:

• The emotional impact of a late autism and ADHD diagnosis

• Parenting neurodivergent children while discovering her own neurodivergence

• Using mindfulness as a tool for emotional awareness and navigating overwhelm

• Her ongoing campaign against SEND-related attendance fines and working with MPs

• The importance of peer support and finding community

• How The Kindful came to life – and why the name is so meaningful

• The power of rest, sensory experiences, and self-compassion for overwhelmed parents

Susan shared her views on emotions as important signals rather than things to fear, and reminded us that we don’t have to do it all alone. She’s inspired by those in the community who create initiatives to help others – and she’s one of them.

This episode is full of warmth, wisdom, and a strong message: be kind to yourself.

Please note that we had some technical difficulties with the video, therefore there are few seconds with freezing images or no images.

Links:

The KindfulThe Kindful on LinkedIn

Jon Kabat-Zinn

Mark WilliamsWillem Kuyken

Headspace

Kworky

The Phoenix Picturehouse, Oxford

In this special episode of the NDV Podcast: Neurodiverse Voices, I return to KatieFest, held this year at Witney RFC, for the second consecutive time. This heartfelt event honours the memory of Katie Peel, whose legacy inspired the creation of the SEND Friendly Rugby Sessions—a community initiative close to many hearts, especially her father, a dedicated rugby coach.

I was honoured to be invited back to KatieFest to capture the joy, energy, and progress since my 2024 visit. This year’s episode features inspiring conversations with those making a real difference in inclusive sport and community engagement:

• Leandra Hamblin, volunteer at the SEND Friendly Rugby Sessions

• Derek Burrows, representing the Wooden Spoon Charity

• Rachel Rea, rugby coach and volunteer with Gosford All Blacks

• Cllr Nigel Simpson, Oxfordshire County Council representative for Kidlington

• Ruth Newton, volunteer at the SEND Friendly Rugby Sessions

• Darren Rea, coach at Gosford All Blacks and Lead of the SEND Friendly Rugby Sessions

From the power of community to the importance of accessible, inclusive sport, this episode radiates the positive spirit that defined the day. With laughter, teamwork, and determination on full display, KatieFest 2025 was an unforgettable celebration of legacy, inclusion, and love.

I'm already looking ahead with excitement to KatieFest 2026 at Wallingford Wolves!

Links:

KatieFest 2025 Facebook Group

SENtipede

TAG Fest 2025

Witney Wolves

SEND Friendly Rugby Sessions - Gosford All Blacks

Wallingford Wolves

Wooden Spoon Charity

Oxfordshire Freemasons

Kidlinks

Cllr Nigel Simpson

Active Oxfordshire

In this powerful and heartfelt episode of the NDVPodcast: Neurodiverse Voices, I sit down with Jack Newton, founder and host of Auticast, for an open and honest conversation about self-acceptance,advocacy, and what it means to finally feel seen. Jack, who was diagnosed as autistic later in life, shared how that moment of clarity helped him make senseof years of feeling different and disconnected, particularly in relationships and employment.

We spoke about the challenges that not everyone sees, theisolation that comes from being misunderstood, and how receiving a diagnosis gave Jack the ability to set clearer boundaries and decide what he can and can’t tolerate. Jack talked about the transition from his first podcast, Out of the Ordinary, which was created during a darker period, to launching Auticast, a project that now comes from a place of light and inspiration, shaped by the powerful stories of his guests.

We also explored the ongoing mental health crisis, especiallyamong men, and the lack of both self-compassion and wider societal compassion. Jack shared his view of autism as a disability, not because of stigma, but because of the real limitations and barriers he faces, particularly in a worldthat often isn’t designed for neurodivergent people.

A key part of our conversation focused on the lack ofunderstanding and education among healthcare professionals, particularly GPs. Jack reflected on how autistic people are frequently dismissed or not taken seriously in medical settings, which only adds to the challenges they face. We also discussed the role of the media in fuelling the narrative that autism and ADHD are suddenly “trendy”, and how this can trivialise genuine lived experiences.

Jack is deeply curious about others, driven by a strongdesire to understand people fully and help them feel better about themselves and the world around them. I left our chat feeling incredibly moved, and I think you will too.

Links:

Auticast on Spotify

Auticast on Apple Podcasts

Auticast on Instagram