As series five comes to a close, I'm taking a moment to reflect on what I've shared this year and how my experience as an autistic person has shaped my work and direction. It hasn't been easy — navigating and recovering from autistic burnout, dealing with financial pressures, and managing mental health challenges — but I'm so grateful you've been here along the way. Series six returns in the new year, where we'll explore the theme "Stepping into Our Power"— what power can mean for different people and how to embrace it in a no bullshit way that's meaningful for you.

In this episode:

· Reflections on 2025: the highs and lows of a challenging year, exploring what it means to grow through difficult times and find renewed purpose.

· Season six preview: "Stepping into Our Power," - how it will inspire conversations about strength, authenticity, and meaningful change.

· Looking ahead to 2026: more about the Happier Life Live event, membership opportunities, and how you can get involved in supporting the podcast community.

This episode is supporting my live event Happier Life Live 2026 . Thursday 23rd and Friday 24th April 2026. Got your ticket yet? You don't want to miss it! Book NOW!

Sponsor an episode of this podcast - https://happier-life.co.uk/podcast-sponsorship

Join Helen in The Happier Life Hub – Your sanctuary for authentic living in a chaotic world.

https://happier-life.co.uk/hub

If this podcast episode resonated with you and you'd like to support me to make more podcast content, please buy me a coffee here - https://ko-fi.com/happierlifecoach - your support is hugely appreciated.

You can also connect with me over on Instagram @happierlifecoach

Remember to hit subscribe or follow to be alerted when new episodes go live!

Season 5 of this podcast is sponsored by Stephanie Ward of The Spicy Brain Collective. We thank Stephanie hugely for her ongoing support.

https://www.thespicybraincollective.com

https://www.instagram.com/thespicybraincollective

https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephanie-ward-sbc

Welcome to episode 111. Today I share my own journey through first-time parenthood - the vulnerable postnatal period before my autism diagnosis, when sensory overload, exhaustion, and unmet needs made everything feel completely overwhelming. This is an honest exploration of how the demands of parenting can intensify existing mental health challenges, and how navigating the experience with honesty, warmth and compassion can help us to live happier, more fulfilled lives. Let's dive in!

In this episode:

· Why self-compassion and honest conversations with children are vital for resilience and connection.

· How to set boundaries and seek support that honour neurodivergent needs.

· Why repairing mistakes is more powerful than avoiding them—and how this models growth for children.

This episode is sponsored by autism education consultant Charlotte Mountford and her business, Badger Education.

Facebook group https://www.facebook.com/groups/485133250591895/

Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/Badger.Education.Inclusive.Supports

Follow on on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/badger.education/

Join Helen in The Happier Life Hub – Your sanctuary for authentic living in a chaotic world.

https://happier-life.co.uk/hub

If this podcast episode resonated with you and you'd like to support me to make more podcast content, please buy me a coffee here - https://ko-fi.com/happierlifecoach - your support is hugely appreciated.

You can also connect with me over on Instagram @happierlifecoach

Remember to hit subscribe or follow to be alerted when new episodes go live!

Season 5 of this podcast is sponsored by Stephanie Ward of The Spicy Brain Collective. We thank Stephanie hugely for her ongoing support.

https://www.thespicybraincollective.com

https://www.instagram.com/thespicybraincollective

https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephanie-ward-sbc

Welcome to episode 110. Today I'm sharing practical, energy-sensitive strategies that help neurodivergent business owners simplify their marketing. From embracing short marketing bursts to focusing on genuine human connection, I want to offer realistic ways to work with your brain rather than against it. Let's challenge the pressure of perfection and consistency and reframe marketing as a straightforward process: telling people what you do, how it helps, and how they can buy it. Let's dive in!

In this episode:

• What makes marketing simple: Focus on what you do, how it helps, and how people can buy it - no fancy funnels or perfection required.
• Why neurodivergent-friendly strategies matter: Advice and approaches that suit your brain, energy, and way of working are far more effective.
• Why authentic connection wins: Personal outreach and small, useful freebies outperform rigid schedules or generic content.

This episode is sponsored by Intersectional Activism/Inclusion & Producer Lindsay McGlone

Instagram: @rollinwithlindsay_

https://allmylinks.com/lindsay-mglone

SPECIAL LISTENER OFFER! Until 31st October 2025 join the Happier Life Hub for just £1. Easy to cancel after the first month, or £20pm thereafter if you'd like to continue.

Get the offer HERE.

Click here for all the details on the Happier Life Hub.

If this podcast episode resonated with you and you'd like to support me to make more podcast content, please buy me a coffee here - https://ko-fi.com/happierlifecoach - your support is hugely appreciated.

You can also connect with me over on Instagram @happierlifecoach

Remember to hit subscribe or follow to be alerted when new episodes go live!

Season 5 of this podcast is sponsored by Stephanie Ward of The Spicy Brain Collective. We thank Stephanie hugely for her ongoing support.

https://www.thespicybraincollective.com

https://www.instagram.com/thespicybraincollective

https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephanie-ward-sbc

Welcome to episode 109. In this episode, we explore how networking can be empowering and inclusive when approached in ways that work for you. We discuss the importance of finding a tribe that truly supports you, and giving yourself permission to leave environments that don't. We also dive into how meaningful connections grow over time and how creative approaches - like online networking, "net-walking," or even hosting your own events - can open doors while keeping self-kindness at the heart of the process. Let's dive in!

In this episode:

• Networking can be empowering and inclusive when approached in ways that suit your needs as a neurodivergent entrepreneur.
• Why finding your tribe and creating supportive spaces can help make connections more meaningful and less stressful.
• Feeling out of place doesn't mean you're doing anything wrong—it just means the space isn't right for you.

This episode is sponsored by The Network! Inclusive business networking.

Visit https://theconfidencehealer.com/networking-events for an event near you.

Or check out https://products.theconfidencehealer.com/theNETwork-manchester for Manchester's events hosted by me, Helen Calvert.

SPECIAL LISTENER OFFER! Until 31st October 2025 join the Happier Life Hub for just £1. Easy to cancel after the first month, or £20pm thereafter if you'd like to continue.

Get the offer HERE.

Click here for all the details on the Happier Life Hub.

If this podcast episode resonated with you and you'd like to support me to make more podcast content, please buy me a coffee here - https://ko-fi.com/happierlifecoach - your support is hugely appreciated.

You can also connect with me over on Instagram @happierlifecoach

Remember to hit subscribe or follow to be alerted when new episodes go live!

Season 5 of this podcast is sponsored by Stephanie Ward of The Spicy Brain Collective. We thank Stephanie hugely for her ongoing support.

https://www.thespicybraincollective.com

https://www.instagram.com/thespicybraincollective

https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephanie-ward-sbc

Welcome to episode 108. If you've ever felt like the 9–5 world just isn't for you, you're not alone. This episode shines a light on why traditional jobs can feel overwhelming for those who are neurodivergent - think unclear expectations, social pressures, and sensory overload - and the opportunities that present themselves in self-employment. Starting your own business can bring freedom, fulfilment and confidence to be authentically you. Listen in for practical tips on avoiding burnout, outsourcing, and finding the confidence to build a work environment in which you can thrive. Let's dive in!

· Redefining the "rules" of work – Being your own boss and the freedom to design a work environment that supports your individual needs.

· Finding your people - Why connecting with supportive communities builds understanding, encouragement, and a sense of belonging that traditional workplaces often lack.

· Still an employee? There's good news - you don't need a formal diagnosis to ask for adjustments in the workplace.

This episode is sponsored by Georgia Cambridge, Pet Loss Counsellor

Connect with Georgia here on Facebook.

SPECIAL LISTENER OFFER! Until 31st October 2025 join the Happier Life Hub for just £1. Easy to cancel after the first month, or £20pm thereafter if you'd like to continue.

Get the offer HERE.

Click here for all the details on the Happier Life Hub.

If this podcast episode resonated with you and you'd like to support me to make more podcast content, please buy me a coffee here - https://ko-fi.com/happierlifecoach - your support is hugely appreciated.

You can also connect with me over on Instagram @happierlifecoach

Remember to hit subscribe or follow to be alerted when new episodes go live!

Season 5 of this podcast is sponsored by Stephanie Ward of The Spicy Brain Collective. We thank Stephanie hugely for her ongoing support.

https://www.thespicybraincollective.com

https://www.instagram.com/thespicybraincollective

https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephanie-ward-sbc

Bonus episode! Today I'm reaching out to you - whether you've been here from the start or just found the podcast - to celebrate and grow our amazing community. Where are you listening from? If you're in the UK and up for connecting in person, drop me a message and let's make it happen!

If virtual is more your style, I've got a treat: The Happier Life Hub is open for just £1 until the end of October.

I'm also sharing a peek at what's next - new sponsorship opportunities and simple ways you can support the podcast so I can keep bringing you the content you love. All the details are below!

SPECIAL LISTENER OFFER! Until 31st October 2025 join the Happier Life Hub for just £1. Easy to cancel after the first month, or £20pm thereafter if you'd like to continue.

Get the offer HERE.

Click here for all the details on the Happier Life Hub.

If this podcast episode resonated with you and you'd like to support me to make more podcast content, please buy me a coffee here - https://ko-fi.com/happierlifecoach - your support is hugely appreciated.

You can also connect with me over on Instagram @happierlifecoach

Remember to hit subscribe or follow to be alerted when new episodes go live!

Season 5 of this podcast is sponsored by Stephanie Ward of The Spicy Brain Collective. We thank Stephanie hugely for her ongoing support.

https://www.thespicybraincollective.com

https://www.instagram.com/thespicybraincollective

https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephanie-ward-sbc

Welcome to episode 106. In this episode, we explore the connection between trauma and neurodivergence, looking at why neurodivergent people are often more vulnerable—even to experiences others might not view as traumatic. Living in a world that isn't designed for our brains can add to that sense of overwhelm, so this episode is a gentle reminder of the power of self-forgiveness, self-kindness, and how seeking trauma-informed support - no matter your background or experiences – can lead to healing and a happier life. Let's dive in.

In this episode:

• The definition of trauma, and how everyday overwhelm puts neurodivergent people at greater risk.
• The impact of trauma on body and mind – How it can manifest as chronic pain, illness, or anxiety – not just emotional pain.
• The power of self-forgiveness – How releasing self-blame creates space for healing, self-advocacy, and accessing trauma-informed support.

This episode is sponsored by Katya Willems of Katya's Microadventures

Connect with Katya here: @katyas_microadventures

Join my incredible community The Happier Life Hub for just £20 per month https://happier-life.co.uk/hub

If this podcast episode resonated with you and you'd like to support me to make more podcast content, please buy me a coffee here - https://ko-fi.com/happierlifecoach - your support is hugely appreciated.

You can also connect with me over on Instagram @happierlifecoach

Remember to hit subscribe or follow to be alerted when new episodes go live!

Season 5 of this podcast is sponsored by Stephanie Ward of The Spicy Brain Collective. We thank Stephanie hugely for her ongoing support.

https://www.thespicybraincollective.com

https://www.instagram.com/thespicybraincollective

https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephanie-ward-sbc

Welcome to episode 105. Have you ever felt like the traditional idea of friendship doesn't fit well for you? In this episode, I share my personal take on friendship as a neurodivergent person and why I've moved away from the usual "friends" label. Instead, I focus on finding "safe people"—those who truly accept me and let me be myself. I talk about the confusion and pressure tied to friendship, and how clear communication and redefining relationships have helped me build more authentic connections. Kee to know more? Let's dive in.

In this episode:

• Friendship can be redefined – How shifting from "friends" to "safe people" made my relationships feel less overwhelming.
• Expectations aren't universal – How differing social norms around friendship can create confusion, especially for neurodivergent individuals.
• Honesty builds connection – How talking openly about your needs and boundaries helps build stronger, more supportive connections.

The Happier Life Hub is now OPEN!! Access The Hub for just £20 per month!

https://happier-life.co.uk/hub

Season 5 of this podcast is sponsored by Stephanie Ward of The Spicy Brain Collective. We thank Stephanie hugely for her ongoing support.

https://www.thespicybraincollective.com

https://www.instagram.com/thespicybraincollective

https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephanie-ward-sbc

Remember to hit SUBSCRIBE or FOLLOW so you don't miss any new episodes; subscribe to my mailing list

Connect with me over on Instagram @happierlifecoach

If you would like to know more about how coaching works or to work with me 1-2-1, please visit https://happier-life.co.uk/

Have you got a copy of the The No Bullsh*t Guide to a Happier Life book? Follow this link to purchase yours now!

Welcome to episode 104. Today I explore the pros and cons of labelling, particularly when it comes to autism and neurodivergence. Is a diagnosis empowering or limiting? I share how understanding my own and my children's neurotype has brought clarity, self-compassion, and real-life support. Labels can feel restricting to some—but for me it has allowed a deeper level of self-acceptance. We talk identity, advocacy, and why embracing difference can be transformative for both children and adults seeking to understand themselves more deeply. Let's dive in.

In this episode:

• Labels can empower – How the right diagnosis can bring relief and self-understanding, replacing harmful misconceptions with clarity.
• Compassion comes with visibility – Why being seen as different, not difficult, often invites more kindness and patience from others.
• Diagnosis is personal – Whether formal or self-diagnosed, what matters is how your diagnosis helps you to live your best, authentic life..

The Happier Life Hub is now OPEN!! Access The Hub for just £20 per month!

https://happier-life.co.uk/hub

Season 5 of this podcast is sponsored by Stephanie Ward of The Spicy Brain Collective. We thank Stephanie hugely for her ongoing support.

https://www.thespicybraincollective.com

https://www.instagram.com/thespicybraincollective

https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephanie-ward-sbc

Remember to hit SUBSCRIBE or FOLLOW so you don't miss any new episodes; subscribe to my mailing list and connect with me over on Instagram @happierlifecoach

If you would like to know more about how coaching works or to work with me 1-2-1, please visit https://happier-life.co.uk/

For more tips and to be part of the community, sign up to The No Bullshit Guide To A Happier Life Facebook Group now!

Have you got a copy of the The No Bullsh*t Guide to a Happier Life book? Follow this link to purchase yours now!

Welcome to episode 103. In this episode, I'm exploring why for neurodivergent people - especially those who are autistic - the simple question "How are you?" can feel overwhelmingly complicated. We'll look at what actually goes on in our brains during moments like this, and why even well-meaning questions can lead to overwhelm or shutdown. I also talk about ways I prefer to be checked in with—and why sharing our communication preferences can help us connect more honestly and kindly.

Whether this is your experience or you're just curious, I hope this episode gives you helpful insight into more supportive ways to communicate. Let's dive in.

In this episode:

• The complexity of the question "How are you?"– Why for many autistic people, this common question can cause anxiety or shutdown (especially during burnout).
• The fear of rejection or abandonment – how avoiding social questions can trigger deep fears of being judged, pitied or abandoned.
• Alternative ways to show care – suggestions for more accessible check-in questions, and the importance of asking what's best.

The Happier Life Hub is now OPEN!! Access The Hub for just £20 per month!

https://happier-life.co.uk/hub

Season 5 of this podcast is sponsored by Stephanie Ward of The Spicy Brain Collective. We thank Stephanie hugely for her ongoing support.

https://www.thespicybraincollective.com

https://www.instagram.com/thespicybraincollective

https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephanie-ward-sbc

Remember to hit SUBSCRIBE or FOLLOW so you don't miss any new episodes; subscribe to my mailing list and connect with me over on Instagram @happierlifecoach

If you would like to know more about how coaching works or to work with me 1-2-1, please visit https://happier-life.co.uk/

For more tips and to be part of the community, sign up to The No Bullshit Guide To A Happier Life Facebook Group now!

Have you got a copy of the The No Bullsh*t Guide to a Happier Life book? Follow this link to purchase yours now!