Neurodivergent Conversations | Autism, ADHD, AuDHD, PDA, Emotional Regulation, SEND parent, Meltdowns, Special Needs Parent

In this episode, I sit down with good friend Judith to talk about what it looks like to turn compassion into action. Judith, along with her partner in crime, saw a need in their local community—families raising children with additional needs were craving connection, understanding, and a space that truly worked for everyone in the family. And so, Our Space was born.

Our Space is a monthly meet-up designed specifically for families with additional needs. It’s sensory-friendly, welcoming, and built by people who get it. From the moment families walk through the door, there’s no pressure to mask, no need to explain—it’s just a space where you can show up as you are.

In our conversation, Judith shares how the idea came to life, what it’s meant for the families who attend, and why creating inclusive spaces can have such a lasting ripple effect—not just for kids, but for parents, siblings, and the wider community.
We talk about the importance of peer support, the power of showing up consistently, and what it takes to build something that meets people where they’re at.

Whether you're a parent raising a child with additional needs, someone who’s been searching for community, or maybe even thinking about starting something similar in your area—this episode will leave you encouraged and inspired.
There’s so much goodness in this conversation, and I hope it reminds you that even small, simple ideas can grow into something beautiful when they’re rooted in care.

Tune in, take what resonates, and as always—come join the conversation. I’d love to hear what kind of community support you’ve found helpful in your journey, or what you’re still searching for. Connect with me on Instagram or join The Unfinished Community—we’re better when we do this together.

PODCAST SURVEY⁠- Click the link to take a 3 minute survey to help me know how to make the show even better! When completing the survey you will be entered to win some podcast merch (never seen before!) some of my favourite things, and a call with me where I'll any of your questions! Draw happens May 5th.

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In this episode, I chat with Victoria, @nuerdivergentbirth about the unique experiences of being neurodivergent during pregnancy and childbirth. We dive into how sensory sensitivities can show up—not just within your body, but in the environment around you—and how that impacts the entire journey from pregnancy to birth.

Victoria shares insight into the different ways friends, family, doulas, and midwives can offer meaningful support. We also talk about how limiting executive function overload, like simplifying food and meal decisions, can make a huge difference during this time.

This conversation opened my eyes to challenges I hadn’t even considered, and I think it’ll do the same for you. Whether you’re neurodivergent, supporting someone who is, or just curious about how these experiences differ, you’ll find valuable perspectives and practical tips here.

If this episode resonated with you, don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who might need to hear it! Here is the free download we talked about in the show. http://www.ndbirth.com/downloads

PODCAST SURVEY- Click the link to take a 3 minute survey to help me know how to make the show even better! When completing the survey you will be entered to win some podcast merch (never seen before!) some of my favourite things, and a call with me where I'll any of your questions! Draw happens May 5th.

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I’m joined by Claire from All Aboard ADHD, and it’s one of those conversations that feels like sitting down with a friend who just gets it. Claire shares how a simple moment at the school gate—just looking for connection—grew into something much bigger: a community of parents navigating life with ADHD. What started locally has become a powerful space of support, encouragement, and shared understanding.

As we talk, Claire opens up about what it’s like raising a child with ADHD, the unexpected turns of figuring it out as you go, and how that process led her to recognise her own neurodivergence. Her story is honest, deeply relatable, and full of those “oh wow, that’s me” moments. And I’ll be honest—there are a few points where I’m processing her words in real time, and it feels like something is unlocking in my own brain. It’s that powerful.

Claire brings so much passion and heart to the conversation—especially around helping others understand their brains and not feel so alone. Whether you’re just starting to explore ADHD in your family, or you’ve been walking this road for a while, there’s something in this episode that will speak to you.

We cover everything from building community, making sense of your own neurodivergent experience, and finding ways to create connection and support when the world can feel a bit too much.

I hope this episode reminds you that there’s a place for you—that you don’t have to navigate this alone, and that finding your people really does change everything.

PODCAST SURVEY- Click the link to take a 3 minute survey to help me know how to make the show even better! When completing the survey you will be entered to win some podcast merch (never seen before!) some of my favourite things, and a call with me where I'll any of your questions! Draw happens May 5th.

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In this heartfelt joint episode, I’m joined by the incredible Dr. Olivia Kessel as we share openly about the often isolating but deeply meaningful journey of raising neurodivergent children. From personal battles to professional insights, this conversation is real, raw, and rooted in hope.

Dr. Olivia takes us through her emotional and exhausting fight to secure an EHCP (Education, Health and Care Plan) for her daughter—something so many parents and caregivers in the UK know all too well. She shares the mental and emotional toll of trying to get the right school support, while also offering insights into how neurodivergent brains work and how we can better support our children to thrive within systems that weren’t built with them in mind.

I open up about my own journey—especially the deep loneliness and disconnection I felt early on when raising my autistic and ADHD son. It was a season where community felt out of reach, and all I wanted was to know I wasn’t the only one struggling to hold it all together.

Together, we talk through what’s helped us: the little things that have brought more calm into the chaos, how we’ve found (and created) supportive spaces, and why understanding our kids’ brains—and our own—has been a game-changer.

If you’re a parent, grandparent, or caregiver Googling “how to help my autistic child at school,” “EHCP application advice,” or “feeling alone as a special needs parent,”—this episode is for you.

You’re not alone, and you don’t have to do this alone.

🎧 Listen now and then share this episode with someone who needs to hear it.

💬 Come join the conversation in our online community, where we continue these kinds of honest talks every week.

📩 And if today’s episode spoke to you, make sure you’re subscribed to the podcast so you never miss an episode.

PODCAST SURVEY- Click the link to take a 3 minute survey to help me know how to make the show even better! When completing the survey you will be entered to win some podcast merch (never seen before!) some of my favourite things, and a call with me where I'll any of your questions! Draw happens May 5th.

Join the Unfinished Community WhatsApp. Where you can share your everyday joys, struggles, and differences! Click here to join.

Sign up to our newsletter where we continue the conversation along with sharing helpful resources and techniques tried out by parents and professionals in the neurodiverse world.

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Brandy talks about what it’s like parenting a neurodivergent child into adulthood. We reflect on how far the conversation around neurodiversity has come over the past 10-15 years—and how there’s still more work to be done. Brandy generously shares the lessons she’s learned along the way, as well as a few things she might do differently if she could go back.

Her son is now about to graduate from college, and they’re preparing for this next big life transition. We talk about the different transitions neurodivergent kids go through—from school to adulthood—and the things Brandy and her family did (and didn’t) do to support their son along the way. She offers so much wisdom and practical advice, especially on how to help your kids advocate for themselves as they grow older.

This conversation left me feeling hopeful and reassured—like, we’ve got this, and it’s going to be okay. If you’re parenting a neurodivergent child, whether they’re little or on the cusp of adulthood, this episode is full of insights that will make you feel less alone on this journey.

If this episode resonates with you, be sure to follow The Unfinished Idea for more heartfelt conversations like this. And if you’re looking for support, advice, or just a space to connect with other parents navigating similar paths, join The Unfinished Community. We’re in this together.

PODCAST SURVEY- Click the link to take a 3 minute survey to help me know how to make the show even better! When completing the survey you will be entered to win some podcast merch (never seen before!) some of my favourite things, and a call with me where I'll any of your questions! Draw happens May 5th.

Join the Unfinished Community WhatsApp. Where you can share your everyday joys, struggles, and differences! Click here to join.

Sign up to our newsletter where we continue the conversation along with sharing helpful resources and techniques tried out by parents and professionals in the neurodiverse world.

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Carly shares so much wisdom and knowledge about women on the spectrum. She offers insight from her own experiences while also incorporating research, giving us key facts and figures that help paint a clearer picture.

Many women go undiagnosed or misdiagnosed for years, and Carly helps us understand why. She explains how autism presents differently in women, the unique challenges they face, and the impact of masking and social expectations. This conversation is eye-opening and offers a fresh perspective on what it means to be a neurodivergent woman.

We also talk about the importance of self-awareness and self-acceptance, as well as the power of finally understanding yourself after years of feeling different. Whether you’re on the spectrum, raising a neurodivergent daughter, or just want to learn more, this episode is packed with valuable takeaways.

Listen now and be sure to share this conversation with someone who needs to hear it. If you enjoy the episode, leaving a review helps others find this important discussion!

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In this episode, I sit down with Paige to dive into what it’s really like being a mom with ADHD while raising a son who is both Autistic and has ADHD. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed or isolated on your parenting journey, this conversation is for you.

Paige opens up about her personal experiences—the highs, the lows, and everything in between. We talk about the challenges of parenting while managing your own neurodivergence and why finding your community, your village, is so important. You’ll hear honest stories about the ups and downs of parenting as a neurodivergent mom, how Paige balances her ADHD while supporting her son’s unique needs, and why community is key to feeling supported and understood. We also share different ways people can offer support and how you can find the right people to stand by you in your journey.

Whether you're navigating similar paths or just looking for connection, you’re not alone in this.

Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with anyone who might need to hear it.

Join the Unfinished Community WhatsApp. Where you can share your everyday joys, struggles, and differences! Click here to join.

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In this episode I’m sharing some of the practical strategies that help us navigate daily life in a neurodiverse family. From preparing for visitors staying in our home to the magic of The Fun Bag and finding ways to support our kids through meltdowns, these are simple but effective tools that make a big difference.

Meltdowns can be one of the toughest moments for both kids and caregivers, and I talk about some of the ways we’ve learned to respond with more patience, understanding, and preparation. If this is something you’re working through, I also mention my resource Behind the Tears, which takes a deeper look at meltdowns—why they happen, how to support your child, and what to do in the aftermath. You can find more information [insert link or direction to resource].

I also want to take a moment to recognise and thank the people who support neurodivergent individuals and families. Whether you’re a teacher, therapist, friend, or family member, your support is so important—and I see you. We need a village, and I’m so grateful for those who show up, listen, and help make the world a more understanding and inclusive place.

This episode is packed with practical insights that I hope will be helpful for you, whether you’re a neurodivergent individual yourself, a parent, or someone wanting to better support the people in your life. Tune in, take what resonates, and as always, I’d love to hear your thoughts—connect with me on Instagram or join The Unfinished Community to keep the conversation going!

If you would like to grab my meltdown resource click here. This guide will give both the "theory" and practical ways to give calm to the chaos.

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I sit down with Reah, a former SENCO who has worked closely with local authorities and is now a full-time SEN advocate, particularly for minority communities in the UK. Through her company Inspire 321, she is committed to ensuring that neurodivergent individuals and their families receive the support they need.

We dive into the struggles of not only creating a plan but also ensuring that schools actually follow through. It’s not always an easy process—figuring out where to start can feel overwhelming, and even once a plan is in place, holding schools accountable can be its own challenge.

We discuss the first steps parents can take when seeking support, from understanding school accommodations to navigating IEPs and 504 as well as EHCP plans. We also share insights on advocating effectively, working with teachers and administrators, and making sure your child gets the help they need. No matter where you are in the process—whether you're just beginning or already dealing with the frustrations of enforcing a plan—this conversation offers guidance, reassurance, and practical steps to help you move forward.

Beyond school support, we also talk about the extra help that exists for parents. Advocating for your child can feel isolating, but you don’t have to do it alone. There are resources, communities, and professionals who can support you along the way, and we break down some of the best ways to access them.

If you’ve ever felt lost in the system or unsure of what steps to take next, this episode is for you.

If you enjoyed this episode, I’d love for you to subscribe, rate, and leave a review—it helps more people find the show.

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I sit down with Christy to talk about her journey navigating the neurodiverse world and the profound transformation she’s experienced along the way. Christy opens up about how she had to replace the dreams she once had with new and exciting realities, all while facing the challenges of embracing her son’s autism diagnosis.

She shares how she initially feared the word "autism" and the grief and survival mode she went into as she processed this new reality. Christy is refreshingly honest about the mix of emotions she felt—from fear to hope—and how she’s grown throughout this journey. She also reflects on how her faith played a pivotal role in her healing and growth, offering insight and strength through some of her toughest moments.

Christy’s openness not only speaks to the reality that so many parents face but also brings hope and excitement for the future. Her story is one of resilience, faith, and finding joy in the unexpected.

If Christy’s journey resonates with you, this episode is a must-listen. Don’t forget to follow The Unfinished Idea for more stories like this, and if you’re looking for a place to share your own experiences or connect with others who understand, come join The Unfinished Community. You’re not alone in this.

If you enjoyed this episode, I’d love for you to subscribe, rate, and leave a review—it helps more people find the show.

Join the Unfinished Community WhatsApp. Where you can share your everyday joys, struggles, and differences! Click here to join

Sign up to our newsletter where we continue the conversation along with sharing helpful resources and techniques tried out by parents and professionals in the neurodiverse world. 

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