Join hosts Simeon Thompson and Dr Sophia Christophi as they welcome Jill Corbyn, founder and director of the neurodivergent-led community interest company, Neurodiverse Connection.

In this insightful episode, Jill shares her journey of being late-discovered autistic, a realization that slowly emerged after working alongside phenomenal autistic colleagues and experiencing a severe period of burnout. The conversation explores how hearing the authentic, insider experiences of autistic people completely shifted her understanding of autism away from traditional, deficit-based medical models.

The hosts and Jill dive deep into the vital importance of lived experience leadership and neurodivergent-led training. They discuss the common assumptions professionals must unlearn, the power of using identity-first language, and the phenomenon of autistic people intuitively recognizing one another. Jill explains why we desperately need to move toward a model of needs-led care, rather than gatekeeping vital support behind years-long diagnostic waiting lists.

The discussion also tackles systemic advocacy and the challenges of being a lived-experience professional navigating complex systems like the NHS. Jill sheds light on her organization's role in the Culture of Care program, working to improve the sensory environments and support systems within mental health inpatient wards. Alongside this, the trio touches on the Double Empathy Problem, the Autistic Space Framework, dealing with the "scarcity mindset" during difficult times, and the regulating joy of special interests - including Jill’s beloved working cocker spaniel, Bat (Wombat).

This episode offers a deeply validating look at the power of community, self-understanding, and authentic connection. Jill’s passion for neurodivergent advocacy and transforming systemic care provides a hopeful roadmap for the future. Whether you are questioning your neurotype, looking for community support, or working in a professional care setting, this conversation is an essential listen.

Jill's Recommended Resources & Mentions:

Neurodiverse Connection: Jill's organization, offering neurodivergent-led training, resources, and community meetups (including groups for autistic men, Black autistic people, and late-discovered individuals). Visit at: https://ndconnection.co.uk/

The Double Empathy Reader edited by Damian Milton: The book discussed in the episode exploring the Double Empathy Problem. Jill and her colleague Kay contributed a chapter on embodied double empathy.

The Autistic SPACE Framework: Created by Autistic Doctors International, a framework for understanding and meeting autistic needs in healthcare and beyond.

The Man Who Mistook His Wife for a Hat by Oliver Sacks: Sophia's book recommendation from the episode.

Our links:

The Autism Podcast instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_autism_podcast/

Simeon Thompson's instagram: https://www.instagram.com/Siimthompson

Dr Sophia Christophi's instagram: https://www.instagram.com/autistically.sophia

Please like, follow and subscribe to our social media channels to support us! It makes a big difference to our small but wonderful Charity.

Please also leave us a review (hopefully positive ;) ) on Apple Podcasts - this is a huge help for us.

And please consider donating to the London Autism Group Charity if you are enjoying this podcast that we produce and able to (simply go to https://donorbox.org/london-autism-group-charity-donations - thank you!)

Wider Charity links:

London Autism Group Charity website: londonautismgroupcharity.org

Facebook page: facebook.com/londonautismgroupcharity

London Autism Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/272747662886046/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/london-autism-group-charity

Twitter: https://twitter.com/lagcharity

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lagcharity

The Autism Podcast is produced by the London Autism Group Charity.
Editorial leads - Dr Chris Papadopoulos, Mr James Gordon, Simeon Thompson and Dr Sophia Christophi

Join hosts Simeon Thompson and Dr Sophia Christophi as they welcome Ellen Cole, founder of Little Seed Group, public speaker, and hedgehog rescuer :) In this candid and revealing episode, Ellen shares her complex journey of navigating life with multiple neurodivergences, including Autism, ADHD, Dyslexia, and Irlen Syndrome (Scotopic Sensitivity Syndrome).

Ellen recounts her initial resistance to the idea of being autistic- attempting to prove a friend wrong- only to discover a diagnosis that eventually helped her understand her life experiences. She provides a fascinating insight into how these co-existing conditions interact, describing how her autism often acts as a regulator for her ADHD, and the specific sensory challenges caused by Irlen Syndrome.

A significant portion of the conversation focuses on the intersection of neurodivergence and pregnancy. Ellen opens up about the difficulties she faced within the healthcare system, where professionals frequently mistook her neurodivergent traits for mental health issues. She discusses the sensory nightmare of hospital wards, the lack of support for breastfeeding, and the fight to advocate for her needs during a vulnerable time.

The discussion also tackles the harsh realities of the workplace. Ellen shares the grief and financial stress of losing the majority of her freelance clients after announcing her pregnancy, highlighting the precarious nature of employment for neurodivergent parents.

However, the episode is also filled with hope and practical strategies. Ellen shares the unique strengths of autistic parenting, from using hyper-focus to plan enriching activities for her daughter to creating sensory-friendly environments at home. She discusses the tools she uses to manage daily life, including the ‘Finch’ self-care app, using sunglasses to regulate melatonin, and how special interests like astrology and dressmaking provide essential dopamine hits.

This is a must-listen for anyone interested in the realities of neurodivergent parenthood, the impact of multiple diagnoses, and the power of self-advocacy.

Ellen’s Recommended Resources:

Little Seed Group: https://littleseedgroup.co.uk/

The Autism Discussion Page on Stress, Anxiety, Shutdowns and Meltdowns by Bill Nason: The book discussed in the episode that helped Ellen understand the female autistic experience.

Finch Care: A self-care widget app mentioned by Ellen for managing tasks and routines.

NABS: A charity offering support and therapy for those in the advertising and media industry: https://nabs.org.uk/

Our links:

The Autism Podcast instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_autism_podcast/
Simeon Thompson's instagram: https://www.instagram.com/Siimthompson
Dr Sophia Christophi's instagram: https://www.instagram.com/autistically.sophia

Please like, follow and subscribe to our social media channels to support us! It makes a big difference to our small but wonderful Charity.

Please also leave us a review (hopefully positive ;) ) on Apple Podcasts - this is a huge help for us.

And please consider donating to the London Autism Group Charity if you are enjoying this podcast that we produce and able to (simply go to https://donorbox.org/london-autism-group-charity-donations - thank you!)

Wider Charity links:

London Autism Group Charity website: londonautismgroupcharity.org

Facebook page: facebook.com/londonautismgroupcharity

London Autism Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/272747662886046/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/london-autism-group-charity

Twitter: https://twitter.com/lagcharity

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lagcharity

The Autism Podcast is produced by the London Autism Group Charity.

Editorial leads - Dr Chris Papadopoulos, Mr James Gordon, Simeon Thompson and Dr Sophia Christophi

Join hosts Simeon Thompson and Dr Sophia Christophi as they welcome Nic King, founder of Pandas Online and creator of the NeuroBears courses for autistic children and young people.

In this thoughtful and wide-ranging episode, Nic shares their journey of being autistic, ADHD, and dyslexic, and reflects on growing up in a family environment that was intuitively neuro-affirming long before the language of neurodiversity was widely used. The conversation explores how early acceptance, structure, and understanding can shape identity, reduce shame, and change how autistic people experience the world as they grow up.

Nic discusses the origins of Pandas Online and the development of NeuroBears, explaining why there is such a gap in child-focused, autistic-led resources that help young people understand their neurology in a neutral, non-deficit way. Nic also shares the thinking behind the much-loved bear analogies, used to explain autism, observation, and difference in ways that are accessible without being patronising.

Simeon, Sophia, and Nic delve into autistic friendships, loneliness, and connection, including the pressures of school environments, forced socialisation, and why shared interests often form the strongest foundations for meaningful relationships. The discussion touches on masking, the double empathy problem, and what genuine inclusion might look like if systems were designed around neurodivergent needs rather than compliance.

This episode offers a grounded and hopeful look at how understanding autism early, supporting autistic parents, and building community can make a real difference across generations.

Nic’s resources:

Our links:

The Autism Podcast instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_autism_podcast/
Simeon Thompson's instagram: https://www.instagram.com/Siimthompson
Dr Sophia Christophi's instagram: https://www.instagram.com/autistically.sophia
Please like, follow and subscribe to our social media channels to support us! It makes a big difference to our small but wonderful Charity.

Please also leave us a review (hopefully positive ;) ) on Apple Podcasts - this is a huge help for us.

And please consider donating to the London Autism Group Charity if you are enjoying this podcast that we produce and able to (simply go to https://donorbox.org/london-autism-group-charity-donations - thank you!)

Wider Charity links:

London Autism Group Charity website: londonautismgroupcharity.org

Facebook page: facebook.com/londonautismgroupcharity

London Autism Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/272747662886046/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/london-autism-group-charity

Twitter: https://twitter.com/lagcharity

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lagcharity

The Autism Podcast is produced by the London Autism Group Charity.

Editorial leads - Dr Chris Papadopoulos, Mr James Gordon, Simeon Thompson and Dr Sophia Christophi

Join hosts Simeon Thompson and Dr Sophia Christophi as they welcome Katie Munday, a community researcher, advocate, and the self-proclaimed "permanently exhausted" creator of 'Autistic and Living the Dream'. In this episode, Katie discusses their experiences of navigating the crucial intersections of being trans and autistic, and breaking down the systemic barriers they face in healthcare and academia.

Katie shares their journey to a late "two-for-one" diagnosis of autism and OCD, an awakening sparked by their work with neurodivergent youth. This experience serves as a launchpad for a deep dive into core concepts like ableism and cisgenderism, and how these oppressive systems combine to create a "cisgenderism-ableism nexus" that marginalises trans and autistic people. The conversation unpacks the frustrating reality of healthcare inequity, powerfully illustrated by the concept of "trans broken arm syndrome," where every health issue is wrongly attributed to a person's trans identity.

The episode also shines a light on powerful, community-led activism. Katie gives an insider's account of the successful Boycott Spectrum 10K campaign, a grassroots movement that challenged a major genetic research project. This leads to a profound and radical critique of academia itself, as Katie questions whether true liberation can be achieved within systems that were not built for neurodivergent or marginalised people, asking the vital question: "What happens when the roof falls in?"

This is an essential listen for anyone interested in the intersections of neurodivergence, gender identity, and disability rights. Katie’s powerful voice, extensive knowledge, and unwavering commitment to their community provide a deeply validating perspective that challenges assumptions and inspires action. It’s a conversation that is as joyful as it is critical, offering a vital roadmap for building a more inclusive and just world.

Recommended resources from this episode:

- Autistic and Living the Dream: Katie’s website, blog, and central hub for their research, training, and consultancy work. Visit at: https://www.autisticltd.co.uk/

- The Double Empathy Reader edited by Damian Milton: The book discussed in the episode which explores the theory of the Double Empathy Problem. Katie contributed a chapter on the healthcare experiences of trans autistic people.

- Predictors of Depression and Anxiety Among Self-Medicating Autistic Adults - Chris Papadopoulos, Tanya Adkin, Katie Munday, David Gray-Hammond, 2025

- Improving Substance-Use Services for Autistic Adults: Insights and Recommendations from Autistic Adults | Autism in Adulthood

Exploring the Experiences of Autistic Transgender and Non-Binary Adults in Seeking Gender Identity Health Care: https://www.liebertpub.com/doi/10.1089/aut.2023.0003

Exploring Autistic Sexualities, Relationality, and Genders Living Under a Double Rainbow: https://www.routledge.com/Exploring-Autistic-Sexualities-Relationality-and-Genders-Living-Under-a-Double-Rainbow/Rosqvist-Day-Krazinski/p/book/9781032576114

The Palgrave Handbook of Research Methods and Ethics in Neurodiversity Studies: https://link.springer.com/book/10.1007/978-3-031-66127-3

Our links:

The Autism Podcast instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_autism_podcast/
Simeon Thompson's instagram: https://www.instagram.com/Siimthompson
Dr Sophia Christophi's instagram: https://www.instagram.com/autistically.sophia
Please like, follow and subscribe to our social media channels to support us! It makes a big difference to our small but wonderful Charity.

Please also leave us a review (hopefully positive ;) ) on Apple Podcasts - this is a huge help for us.

And please consider donating to the London Autism Group Charity if you are enjoying this podcast that we produce and able to (simply go to https://donorbox.org/london-autism-group-charity-donations - thank you!)

Wider Charity links:

London Autism Group Charity website: londonautismgroupcharity.org

Facebook page: facebook.com/londonautismgroupcharity

London Autism Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/272747662886046/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/lagcharity

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lagcharity

The Autism Podcast is produced by the London Autism Group Charity.

Editorial leads - Dr Chris Papadopoulos, Mr James Gordon, Simeon Thompson and Dr Sophia Christophi

Join hosts Simeon Thompson and Dr Sophia Christophi as they welcome Helen Edgar, the creator behind the invaluable online resource, Autistic Realms. In this episode, Helen shares her journey of late AuDHD identification and takes us on a deep dive into the theory of Monotropism, a concept central to her work and a powerful lens for understanding the autistic experience. The conversation explores everything from the mechanics of autistic burnout to the radical act of reclaiming rest.

Helen breaks down the theory of Monotropism, explaining how the autistic mind tends to be pulled strongly towards a few interests at a time, creating deep 'attention tunnels'. She discusses how this cognitive style can make task-switching and navigating a multi-channel neurotypical world exhausting, leading directly to autistic burnout. Drawing from the work of autistic researchers, Helen walks through the core principles of a monotropic mind, offering listeners a framework that can bring clarity to their own experiences with hyperfocus, inertia, and executive functioning.

The episode also introduces the powerful concept of 'reclaiming rest'. Helen challenges the conventional, often neurotypical, ideas of what it means to recharge. The hosts and Helen discuss why activities that energise some can be draining for others, and how deep-diving into special interests can be a profoundly restorative act of self-care, not a sign of avoidance. The conversation also touches on the pressures of masking, the evolution of the online autistic community, and the importance of creating spaces where autistic people can truly be themselves.

This is an essential listen for anyone looking to move beyond deficit-based models of autism. Helen’s passion and extensive knowledge provide a validating and empowering perspective, offering practical insights and a profound sense of being understood. Whether you're new to the concept of Monotropism or have been living it your whole life, this episode is a treasure trove of knowledge that will reshape how you think about the autistic mind.

Helen's Recommended Resources:

Autistic Realms: Helen's website, filled with blogs, infographics, and ebooks covering Monotropism, burnout, education, and more. Visit at: https://autisticrealms.com/

Monotropism.org: A central resource for learning about the theory of Monotropism, created by and for the autistic community. Visit at: https://monotropism.org/

Stimpunks: An organisation providing neurodivergent-led training and resources, including "The Map of Monotropic Experiences" created with Helen. Visit at: https://stimpunks.org/

The Nap Ministry: An organization that examines the liberating power of rest and naps, founded by Tricia Hersey. Visit at: https://thenapministry.com/

Our links:

Please like, follow and subscribe to our social media channels to support us! It makes a big difference to our small but wonderful Charity.

Please also leave us a review (hopefully positive ;) ) on Apple Podcasts - this is a huge help for us.

And please consider donating to the London Autism Group Charity if you are enjoying this podcast that we produce and able to (simply go to https://donorbox.org/london-autism-group-charity-donations - thank you!)

Wider Charity links:

London Autism Group Charity website: londonautismgroupcharity.org

Facebook page: facebook.com/londonautismgroupcharity

London Autism Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/272747662886046/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/lagcharity

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lagcharity

The Autism Podcast is produced by the London Autism Group Charity.

Editorial leads - Dr Chris Papadopoulos, Mr James Gordon, Simeon Thompson and Dr Sophia Christophi

All Rights Reserved

Join hosts Simeon Thompson and Dr Sophia Christophi as they welcome Jenny Loughran, the CEO and Editor in Chief of Autistic Revolution magazine. In this powerful and deeply moving episode, Jenny shares her unflinching story of self-identification, the concept of systemic trauma, and her fierce advocacy for a world that truly embraces neurodiversity.

Jenny opens up about her personal journey, which began not by questioning her own identity, but by fighting for her two neurodivergent children within a broken system. She reflects on how navigating their diagnoses triggered her own 'neurodivergent awakening,' leading her to reframe a lifetime of masking and mental health struggles. In a raw and honest account, she discusses being told she was 'too eloquent' for a diagnosis and the profound process of reclaiming her identity from the pathology paradigm.

The conversation reframes trauma not as a single event, but as the relentless, daily experience of being autistic in a world not designed for you. Through the powerful story of her son Joseph, Jenny illustrates the devastating impact of the education system, the pain of social isolation, and how behaviours labelled as 'disruptive' are often cries of dysregulation and unmet needs.

The episode also explores Jenny's work with Autistic Revolution magazine - a platform created to showcase autistic creativity and empower the autistic voice. This leads to a passionate call to dismantle the systems that harm neurodivergent children and to replace them with a neurodivergent-affirming culture. It’s an urgent plea for a society that provides safety, celebrates authentic self-expression, and allows autistic role models to thrive.

This is an essential and emotionally resonant listen for parents, advocates, and anyone seeking to understand the true cost of non-acceptance. Jenny’s story is a testament to the strength of the autistic spirit and the urgent need for a more compassionate and informed approach to neurodiversity.

Book recommendation from this episode:

Neuroqueer Heresies by Nick Walker

Jenny Loughran's links:

Autistic Revolution Magazine: https://www.autistic-revolution.com/

Jenny's LinkedIn: : https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenny-loughran-4224b5242/?originalSubdomain=uk

Our links:

The Autism Podcast instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_autism_podcast/

Simeon Thompson's instagram: https://www.instagram.com/Siimthompson

Dr Sophia Christophi's instagram: https://www.instagram.com/autistically.sophia

Please like, follow and subscribe to our social media channels to support us! It makes a big difference to our small but wonderful Charity.

Please also leave us a review (hopefully positive ;) ) on Apple Podcasts - this is a huge help for us.

And please consider donating to the London Autism Group Charity if you are enjoying this podcast that we produce and able to (simply go to https://donorbox.org/london-autism-group-charity-donations - thank you!)

Wider Charity links:

London Autism Group Charity website: londonautismgroupcharity.org

Facebook page: facebook.com/londonautismgroupcharity

London Autism Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/272747662886046/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/lagcharity

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lagcharity

The Autism Podcast is produced by the London Autism Group Charity.

Editorial leads - Dr Chris Papadopoulos, Mr James Gordon, Simeon Thompson and Dr Sophia Christophi

All Rights Reserved

Join hosts Simeon Thompson and Dr Sophia Christophi as they welcome David Devine, a lead Oliver McGowan trainer at DynamicTraining.org.uk. In this powerful and thought-provoking episode, David shares his journey to a late autism diagnosis and dives deep into the core concepts of autistic culture, communication, and the Double Empathy Problem.

David opens up about his personal history, from being diagnosed with dyslexia as a child to the pivotal, and somewhat unusual, moment years later when he received his autism diagnosis. He explores the profound process of rebuilding his identity and self-understanding post-diagnosis, reflecting on the journey from confusion to clarity.

The conversation centres on Damian Milton's Double Empathy Problem, reframing communication challenges as a two-way street rather than a one-sided deficit. The hosts and David share powerful personal anecdotes that illustrate the differences between autistic and neurotypical interaction styles. They explore why expressions of empathy can be so easily misunderstood across neurotypes and challenge long-held assumptions about autistic social skills.

The episode also delves into the exciting concept of an "autistic culture" -a way of being with its own unique norms and social structures. This leads to an inspiring discussion on the importance of self-understanding, the power of a collective autistic voice, and the need to shift the focus from assimilation to mutual respect. It’s a call for acceptance on our own terms, moving beyond the pressure to conform.

This is an essential listen for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of autistic communication and identity. David’s insights offer a compelling case for why the world needs to meet autistic people halfway, enabling a more inclusive and empathetic society for everyone.

David's Special Interests:

Autism (his main special interest, which he has turned into his career)

Chess (which he plays a lot of, but insists he plays badly!)

Simeon Thompson's instagram: https://www.instagram.com/Siimthompson

Dr Sophia Christophi's instagram: https://www.instagram.com/autistically.sophia

Please like, follow and subscribe to our social media channels to support us! It makes a big difference to our small but wonderful Charity.

Please also leave us a review (hopefully positive ;) ) on Apple Podcasts - this is a huge help for us.

And please consider donating to the London Autism Group Charity if you are enjoying this podcast that we produce and able to (simply go to https://donorbox.org/london-autism-group-charity-donations - thank you!)

Our links:

London Autism Group Charity website: londonautismgroupcharity.org
Facebook page: facebook.com/londonautismgroupcharity
London Autism Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/272747662886046/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/lagcharity
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lagcharity

The Autism Podcast is produced by the London Autism Group Charity.

Editorial leads - Dr Chris Papadopoulos, Mr James Gordon, Simeon Thompson and Dr Sophia Christophi

All Rights Reserved

Join hosts Simeon Thompson and Dr Sophia Christophi as they welcome Kirsty Lavender-Newns, a dedicated volunteer and lead befriender for the London Autism Group Charity, and a trainee therapist. In this deeply personal and insightful episode, Kirsty shares her journey of late diagnosis, the complexities of self-acceptance, and the power of finding your community.

Kirsty opens up about the experiences that led her to seek an autism diagnosis in her early twenties, a process that began after facing significant challenges at university. She explores the feelings of self-doubt and the struggle with internalised ableism that many late-diagnosed autistics face, and discusses how connecting with the London Autism Group Charity became a vital part of reshaping her own narrative and finding a sense of belonging.

The conversation takes a deep dive into the nuanced topic of masking. Simeon and Sophia contribute their own perspectives, discussing how cultural backgrounds and gender norms can shape the pressure to mask, leading to a fascinating discussion on trying to navigate a world without a clear 'social cue handbook'.

The episode also explores why Kirsty decided to train as a therapist. She explains the immense value of autistic-led therapy, the obstacles of training within systems designed for neurotypicals, and the importance of having a therapist who truly understands. Kirsty shares what her training journey has taught her about herself and about creating truly safe, empathetic spaces for others.

This episode is a moving and honest exploration of what it means to build a life on your own terms. Kirsty's story is a testament to the power of understanding yourself, the relief of letting go of neurotypical expectations, and the incredible strength found in community.

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Kirsty's Book Recommendations:

- Papadopoulos, Chris. Voices of Neurodiversity: An Inclusive Encyclopaedia (Routledge, 2025)

- Bargiela, Sarah. Camouflage. Jessica Kingsley Publishers, 2019.

- Belcher, Hannah Louise. Taking Off the Mask. Jessica Kingsley Publishers, 2022.

- Ekins, Erin. Queerly Autistic. Jessica Kingsley Publishers, 2021.

- Garcia, Eric. We’re Not Broken. Harvest, 2021.

- Hendrickx, Sarah, and Jess Hendrickx. Women and Girls on the Autism Spectrum, Second Edition. Jessica Kingsley Publishers, 2024.

- Jones, Steph. The Autistic Survival Guide to Therapy. Jessica Kingsley Publishers, 2024.

- On Being An Autistic Therapist. Pccs Books.

- Pang, Camilla. Explaining Humans: Winner of the Royal Society Science Book Prize 2020. Penguin.

- Rogers, Carl R. A Way of Being. Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, 1995.

- The Routledge International Handbook of Critical Autism Studies (Routledge International Handbooks). Routledge.

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Simeon Thompson's instagram: https://www.instagram.com/Siimthompson

Dr Sophia Christophi's instagram: https://www.instagram.com/autistically.sophia

Please like, follow and subscribe to our social media channels to support us! It makes a big difference to our small but wonderful Charity.

Please also leave us a review (hopefully positive ;) ) on Apple Podcasts - this is a huge help for us.

And please consider donating to the London Autism Group Charity if you are enjoying this podcast that we produce and able to (simply go to https://donorbox.org/london-autism-group-charity-donations - thank you!)

Our links:

London Autism Group Charity website: londonautismgroupcharity.org
Facebook page: facebook.com/londonautismgroupcharity
London Autism Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/272747662886046/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/lagcharity
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lagcharity

The Autism Podcast is produced by the London Autism Group Charity.

Editorial leads - Dr Chris Papadopoulos and Mr James Gordon

All Rights Reserved

Join our host Simeon Thompson as he welcomes Barry Davies, Police Community Support Officer, and Sergeant John Nelson, both from the British Transport Police. Barry brings a personal perspective as a parent of an autistic son and draws on his previous experience working for TFL London Underground in ticket offices, while John shares his journey as an autistic police officer and founder of the National Police Autism Association (NPAA).

Barry opens up about his transition from TFL ticket offices to becoming a PCSO when the Oyster card system led to ticket office closures, and how his personal experience with autism through his son has shaped his approach to community policing. He shares real examples of supporting autistic people on the transport network, highlighting how understanding and empathy can transform situations that others might misinterpret as aggressive behavior when the person is actually frightened or overwhelmed.

John delves into his career change from IT to policing after volunteering with St. John Ambulance sparked his interest in emergency services. He discusses receiving his autism diagnosis several years into his police career, the challenges of fitting into police culture, and his determination to create support for neurodivergent colleagues. He shares the founding and remarkable growth of the NPAA, which now supports nearly 3,000 members across 48 UK forces, and the evolution of autism acceptance within policing from complete ignorance to growing understanding and acceptance.

The conversation explores the importance of proper autism training for officers, the value of resources like police guides, meltdown response materials, and the Met Police's stop and search guide for autistic people. Both guests emphasise how taking time to talk with autistic individuals rather than making assumptions can completely change outcomes, and the crucial difference between viewing autism through a medical lens versus understanding it as neurological diversity.

--

National Police Autism Association website: National Police Autism Association (NPAA)

John Nelson's email: [email protected]

Simeon Thompson's instagram: https://www.instagram.com/Siimthompson

Dr Sophia Christophi's instagram: https://www.instagram.com/autistically.sophia

Please like, follow and subscribe to our social media channels to support us! It makes a big difference to our small but wonderful Charity.

Please also leave us a review (hopefully positive ;) ) on Apple Podcasts - this is a huge help for us.

And please consider donating to the London Autism Group Charity if you are enjoying this podcast that we produce and able to (simply go to https://donorbox.org/london-autism-group-charity-donations - thank you!)

Our links:

London Autism Group Charity website: londonautismgroupcharity.org

The Autism Podcast is produced by the London Autism Group Charity.

Editorial leads - Dr Chris Papadopoulos and Mr James Gordon

All Rights Reserved

Join our hosts Simeon Thompson and Dr Sophia Christophi as they welcome Brendan Tighe, an autistic college language professor and autism advocate currently living in Mexico after spending most of his life in the US. Brendan shares his personal journey, including receiving an autism diagnosis at age four but only truly understanding its impact much later in life. He delves into the incredible and challenging legal battle his family undertook against the school system to secure his educational rights, highlighting the crucial support from his trailblazing uncle.

Brendan opens up about the complexities of masking, feeling different, and navigating a world where autism was often misunderstood or treated like a "dirty word." He discusses his path from those early struggles to becoming an advocate, finding his own way to learn and thrive – including teaching himself languages – and the importance of self-acceptance, independence, and challenging societal underestimations to achieve his potential.

Brendan has also shared his journey in more detail in his recently published Medium.com article, "Breaking the Silence: 33 Years of Autism, Advocacy, and Acceptance.' Links to this article are: 

https://medium.com/@bdtighe/breaking-the-silence-33-years-of-autism-advocacy-and-acceptance-85134df6ad77

https://substack.com/inbox/post/159523582 

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Brendan's contact info:

Brendan's email address: [email protected]

Brendan's instagram: Brendan Tighe (@brendigio) • Instagram photos and videos

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Simeon Thompson's instagram: https://www.instagram.com/Siimthompson

Dr Sophia Christophi's instagram: https://www.instagram.com/autistically.sophia

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Please like, follow and subscribe to our social media channels to support us! It makes a big difference to our small but wonderful Charity.

Please also leave us a review (hopefully positive ;) ) on Apple Podcasts - this is a huge help for us.

And please consider donating to the London Autism Group Charity if you are enjoying this podcast that we produce and able to (simply go to https://donorbox.org/london-autism-group-charity-donations - thank you!)

Our links:

London Autism Group Charity website: londonautismgroupcharity.org

The Autism Podcast is produced by the London Autism Group Charity.

Editorial leads - Dr Chris Papadopoulos and Mr James Gordon

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