The Autism Podcast

Join hosts Simeon Thompson and Dr Sophia Christophi as they welcome Rachel Filmer, a parent of autistic twins, SEND rights campaigner, contributor to Special Needs Jungle and founder of SEND Rights Alliance. In this episode, Rachel shares how her family’s experience of navigating the special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) system led her into advocacy. She describes learning SEND law and representing her children at tribunal to secure a suitable school placement, and the difference that the right education and access to skilled staff and therapists have made to their communication, learning and independence. The conversation challenges the assumption that children who do not speak cannot understand or learn, and asks why families so often have to fight for support. The discussion centres on the Government’s proposed SEND reforms in England and Rachel’s concerns about what they could mean for children and young people. She explains why individually assessed needs, Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCPs), enforceable provision and meaningful routes of appeal matter to families. Simeon, Sophia and Rachel explore the distinction between promises of support and the ability to challenge decisions when that support is unsuitable or unavailable. The trio also consider what meaningful inclusion should look like, from everyday reasonable adjustments in mainstream schools to specialist settings that meet a child’s individual needs. Rachel discusses the pressures on teachers, the importance of early support and long-term investment, and why a single model cannot work for every autistic learner. Alongside this, she reflects on the barriers facing families who are already marginalised, the impact of misleading narratives about SEND, and the emotional demands of trying to change a system while caring for children. Through her work with the Save Our Children’s Rights campaign, Rachel makes the case for families, professionals and the wider community to speak up together. She shares practical ways to engage with MPs, explains why personal stories matter, and reflects on finding supportive communities while dealing with online hostility. Whether you are a parent or carer, an educator, an autistic advocate or someone wanting to understand the SEND debate, this conversation offers a personal perspective on why children’s needs and rights must remain at the heart of reform. Recorded on 12th September 2026. The discussion reflects the proposals and campaign activity at the time of recording. For the latest developments and ways to get involved, visit the campaign websites below. Recommended Resources & Mentions: Save Our Children’s Rights: Campaign updates, information about proposed reforms and ways to get involved. Write to your MP: The campaign’s guidance, IPSEA template and online letter-writing tool discussed in the episode. Protect legal right to support for children with SEND: The petition discussed in the recording. It closed on 14th October 2026; the petition and Government response remain available to read. Rachel Filmer on LinkedIn SEND Rights Alliance: The alliance founded by Rachel, bringing together parents, educators and other supporters of SEND rights. Special Needs Jungle: SEND news, resources and informed commentary, including Rachel’s contributions. The Unacceptable Truth: 20 SEND legal rights at risk from the Government’s SEND reforms: Special Needs Jungle’s explainer on the concerns discussed in the episode. Voices of Neurodiversity: An Inclusive Encyclopaedia by Chris Papadopoulos: The book mentioned in the introduction, exploring neurodivergent terminology and lived experience. 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 Guided Neurons, Simeon’s personal YouTube channel dedicated to self-understanding and autistic insights: https://www.youtube.com/@GuidedNeurons 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 on Apple Podcasts. This is a huge help for us. And if you are enjoying this podcast and are able to, please consider donating to the London Autism Group Charity. 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 return from a brief hiatus to welcome Ryan Parker, a wildlife conservationist, animal behaviourist, safari guide, and the founder of the foundation, Save the Animals, Save the World. In this episode, Ryan shares his lifelong, innate connection to the natural world. Describing his early years mimicking animal movements and sounds, he explains how he intuitively "reads" ecosystems and feels a profound, almost electric connection to wildlife. The conversation explores how humans, despite our modern societal structures, remain a part of the natural order with deeply ingrained - though often ignored - survival instincts. Much of the discussion focuses on the harsh realities of animal rescue and the exotic pet trade. Ryan unpacks the frustrating "Disneyfication" of wildlife, where people expect animals to act like cartoon characters and often treat exotic pets as status symbols rather than living beings. He shares incredible stories from his career, ranging from a close encounter with a 15-foot Nile crocodile and a curious sand tiger shark named Betty, to rescuing a baby herring gull from a shop roof. The hosts and Ryan also dive into his wonderful work bringing rescued exotic animals - like snakes, tarantulas, and his Dalmatian, Bellatrix - to the London Autism Group Charity’s community cafes. Ryan reveals why neurodivergent individuals often form much stronger, more genuine connections with animals compared to neurotypical crowds. They discuss how the absence of complex human social rules and the pure, non-judgmental nature of animals create a safe space for autistic individuals to drop their guard. Finally, the trio emphasises the vital importance of "grounding" and stepping away from technology to be truly present in the imperfect beauty of the natural world. This episode offers a profoundly unique perspective on our place within the ecosystem. Ryan’s passion, raw honesty, and unyielding respect for all life - from leopards to snails - provide a powerful reminder to disconnect from our screens and reconnect with our roots. Whether you are an animal lover, seeking ways to feel more present, or looking for a space free of human judgment, this conversation is an essential listen. Recommended Resources & Mentions: Save the Animals, Save the World: Ryan Parker's wildlife conservation and rescue foundation. Voices of Neurodiversity: An Inclusive Encyclopedia by Chris Papadopoulos: A great read for autistic individuals and parents wanting to understand neurodivergent terminology. London Autism Group Charity Community Cafes: The drop-in hubs mentioned in the episode where neurodivergent people can be themselves, and where Ryan frequently brings his rescued animals. Find out more at: londonautismgroupcharity.org 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 Guided Neurons: Simeon's personal YouTube channel dedicated to self-understanding and autistic insights: https://www.youtube.com/@GuidedNeurons 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 Vijay Panchal, a Watford-based neurodivergent artist, workshop facilitator, and public speaker who specializes in character design and visualizing emotions. In this engaging episode, Vijay opens up about his journey to an adult diagnosis of AuDHD (Autism and ADHD). He candidly shares the challenges of enduring multi-year waiting lists, untangling co-occurring "grey area" health conditions like Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS) and Dysautonomia, and the profound closure that came from finally understanding his own neurology and unmasking his authentic self. The conversation deeply explores the intersection of neurodivergence and culture. As a British Indian whose native tongue is Gujarati, Vijay highlights the complexities of navigating a culture that lacks a specific word for autism (often defaulting to words like "Mansik," meaning sickness of the mind). He discusses the impact of generational trauma, stigma, and the vital necessity of cross-cultural education and forging new, neuro-affirming language to break down these barriers. Simeon, Sophia, and Vijay also delve into the powerful relationship between autism, visual thinking, and trauma. Vijay explains how art became his primary language and a vital tool for self-regulation, eventually leading him to facilitate art well-being workshops for others. The trio touches upon masking, overcoming the "negative inner critic," the concept of "flow state," and the importance of implementing holistic health practices - like mindfulness, somatics, and boundary setting - to combat autistic burnout. Whether you are navigating your own complex diagnostic journey, looking for ways to embrace your unique potential, or interested in the healing power of art, Vijay’s perspective offers an incredibly hopeful and validating listen. Vijay’s Recommended Resources & Mentions: Vijay Panchal's Art & Workshops: To see Vijay’s portfolio, character designs, and learn more about his art well-being workshops, click here: VIJAY PANCHAL - FINE ARTIST - Workshops + Exhibitions Problem Shared: The Right to Choose neurodevelopmental assessment service that assisted Vijay with his diagnosis: https://www.problemshared.net/ David Gray-Hammond (Emergent Divergence): An advocate, mentor, and LAGC associate mentioned by Vijay who does brilliant work in the fields of mental health, addiction, and neurodiversity: https://neurohubcommunity.org/ Genius Within / The Genius Finder: Founded by Dr. Nancy Doyle, a resource Vijay used for identifying neurodivergent needs and strengths in terms of advocacy and employment- https://geniuswithin.org/ Hatch Enterprise: The organization where Vijay completed the Launchpad program to develop his art well-being workshops: https://hatchenterprise.org/ Parallel Windsor: The inclusive festival where Vijay has facilitated his workshops: https://www.parallellifestyle.com/windsor 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 Guided Neurons: Simeon's personal YouTube channel dedicated to self-understanding and autistic insights: https://www.youtube.com/@GuidedNeurons 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://cafdonate.cafonline.org/30442 - 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 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 Guided Neurons: Simeon's personal YouTube channel dedicated to self-understanding and autistic insights: https://www.youtube.com/@GuidedNeurons 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/ Ellen Cole's instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ellenjcole/ Our links: The Autism Podcast instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_autism_podcast/Simeon Thompson's instagram: https://www.instagram.com/SiimthompsonDr 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: Pandas Online: https://www.pandasonline.org NeuroBears courses: information available via the Pandas Online website Our links: The Autism Podcast instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_autism_podcast/Simeon Thompson's instagram: https://www.instagram.com/SiimthompsonDr Sophia Christophi's instagram: https://www.instagram.com/autistically.sophiaPlease 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 - Autistic Substance Use Network – A home for research into Autistic substance use 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/SiimthompsonDr Sophia Christophi's instagram: https://www.instagram.com/autistically.sophiaPlease 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: 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 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.orgFacebook page: facebook.com/londonautismgroupcharityLondon Autism Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/272747662886046/Twitter: https://twitter.com/lagcharityInstagram: 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