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In this episode, Catherine talks to Dr Aimee Grant, Associate Professor and Wellcome Trust Career Development Fellow at Swansea University, who leads the "Autism from Menstruation to Menopause" study. Together, Catherine and Dr Grant discuss why periods can be especially challenging for some autistic people, including sensory experiences, pain, emotional changes, interoception, unpredictability, and the practical difficulties of managing periods at school, work or in healthcare settings. They explore why autistic young people may need clear, detailed and timely information before their first period, and why support should not stop once periods begin. Catherine and Dr Grant also discuss how parents and carers can support period tracking and preparation, including helping young people understand what to expect, plan ahead, and feel more in control. The conversation also covers managing periods at school, including bathroom access, changing products, and the importance of reasonable adjustments. They discuss how missing activities, taking breaks or resting more during a period can be a valid form of self-care, rather than something to feel guilty about. Catherine and Dr Grant also talk about regulation strategies during menstruation, including stimming, using screens, comfort objects, quiet time and other approaches that may help reduce distress or overwhelm. They consider the importance of finding period products that work for the individual, including pads, tampons and period pants, while recognising that sensory preferences and practical needs will vary from person to person. They also discuss how period pain, heavy bleeding, fatigue or changes in mood and sensory sensitivity can sometimes be misunderstood, dismissed or treated as something autistic people simply have to ‘put up with’. Instead, Dr Grant encourages listeners to take symptoms seriously, seek medical advice when something does not feel right, and approach periods with self-compassion and autism-affirming support. What’s on at Autism Central? Explore the ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Autism Central website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for FREE NHS-funded 1:1coaching sessions, events and resources for families of autistic people in England and their support networks. Subscribe to our ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠FREE newsletter⁠⁠ Connect with Dr Aimee Grant Website:  https://www.draimeegrant.com/ Autism and puberty blog for Autism Central: https://www.autismcentral.nhs.uk/news/blog-talking-about-puberty-your-child Autism from Menstruation to Menopause study website: https://www.autismmenstruationtomenopause.com/ Connect with Catherine  Email: [email protected] Website I Instagram I Art  Books: Rediscovered and Still Living

In this episode, Catherine talks to Dr Jessica Eccles, a consultant neurodevelopmental psychiatrist, researcher and public communicator whose work explores the connections between the brain and body. Dr Eccles co-leads the world’s first neurodivergent brain–body clinic and is a leading voice in understanding the overlap between autism, hypermobility, Ehlers-Danlos syndromes, dysautonomia, pain and fatigue. Together, Catherine and Dr Eccles discuss why many autistic people may also experience physical health differences such as flexible joints, chronic pain, dizziness, fainting, gut problems, allergies, fatigue and difficulties with temperature or standing for long periods. Dr Eccles explains hypermobility using the image of connective tissue as the body’s ‘cling film’ - something found everywhere in the body, not just in the joints. When connective tissue is different, it can affect the joints, blood vessels, gut, skin and nervous system, which may help explain why some autistic and neurodivergent people experience a cluster of physical and emotional symptoms. They also talk about the importance of not dismissing pain, fatigue or dizziness as ‘just anxiety’ or ‘just sensory sensitivity’. Instead, Dr Eccles encourages listeners to think about how the brain and body work together - and how better understanding can lead to better support, better self-advocacy and better care. Key themes Catherine and Dr Eccles discuss: - What hypermobility is and how it can show up   - What Ehlers-Danlos syndromes, or EDS, are   - Why all people with EDS are hypermobile, but not all hypermobile people have EDS   - The emerging research linking autism, ADHD, hypermobility and brain-body health   - Why autistic people may be more likely to experience chronic pain and fatigue   - How dizziness, fainting and feeling strange when standing may relate to autonomic dysfunction   - What POTS and orthostatic intolerance are   - Why symptoms can be mistaken for anxiety   - The role of interoception, alexithymia, sensory processing and masking   - Why some autistic people may mask physical pain and illness   - How schools and health professionals can better understand children who struggle with standing, walking, pain or fatigue   - Practical supports such as hydration, electrolytes, cooling strategies, compression garments and pacing   - How autistic and hypermobile people can begin to advocate for themselves in healthcare settings   - Why systemic change is needed in how services understand the overlap between neurodivergence and physical health What’s on at Autism Central? Explore the ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Autism Central website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for FREE NHS-funded 1:1 coaching sessions, events and resources for families of autistic people in England and their support networks. Subscribe to our ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠FREE newsletter⁠⁠ Connect with Dr Jessica Eccles  Youtube / Instagram / LinkTree For further information on the topics discussed in this episode, listeners may want to explore resources from SEDSConnective, POTS UK, the EDS GP Toolkit, StopFainting.com and the Hypermobility Syndromes Association.  Connect with Catherine  Email: [email protected] Website I Instagram I Art  Books: Rediscovered and Still Living

In this episode Catherine Asta is joined by autistic psychotherapist and registered dietitian Camilla Ferraro to explore autism, ARFID and our relationship with food. Drawing on her professional expertise, alongside her own lived experience, Camilla explores why autistic eating differences are so often misunderstood and why what can look like "picky eating" from the outside can be something much more complex. Together they explore ARFID (Avoidant Restrictive Food Intake Disorder) and the differences between food preferences, sensory-based eating differences and eating difficulties that can have a significant impact on someone’s health, wellbeing and everyday life. They discuss the role of sensory processing, distress, executive functioning and the eating environment, as well as the shame and judgement many autistic people experience around what, when and how they eat. The conversation also looks at how parents, carers and professionals can better support autistic people around food by moving away from pressure, forcing and rigid expectations and towards curiosity, choice and agency. And they explore why feeling safe is so important when it comes to eating, the value of understanding individual sensory preferences and why sometimes seemingly small adjustments to mealtimes can make a meaningful difference. Camilla reminds us that when we remove judgement and become curious about what someone’s eating differences are communicating, we can begin to build a safer and more positive relationship with food. What’s on at Autism Central? Explore the ⁠⁠⁠⁠Autism Central website⁠⁠⁠⁠ for FREE NHS-funded 1:1 coaching sessions, events and resources for families of autistic people in England and their support networks. Subscribe to our ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠FREE newsletter⁠⁠ Connect with Camilla  ⁠Website⁠ ⁠Instagram⁠ Connect with Catherine  Email: [email protected] Website I Instagram I Art | The Late Discovered Club | Books: Rediscovered and Still Living

Autism, Culture and Breaking the Silence In this episode Catherine Asta is joined by AuDHD advocate, mother, researcher and founder of Chinese Autism, Hazel Lim, to explore autism, culture and the experiences of families navigating neurodivergence within the Chinese community. Drawing on her own lived experience as an AuDHD mother of three neurodivergent children, Hazel reflects on how her journey led her to create spaces where families can talk openly, find understanding and feel less alone. Together they explore the cultural stigma and silence that can surround autism within Chinese communities and the additional barriers faced by families from minority and migrant communities. Along with the importance of why language support needs to be combined with cultural understanding and neuroaffirming practice to build genuine trust between families and services. This is a powerful conversation about intersectionality, advocacy and the courage it takes to break silence. Hazel reminds us how with greater understanding, culturally informed support and communities willing to listen, families can move away from shame and towards acceptance, confidence and the freedom to embrace difference. What’s on at Autism Central? Explore the ⁠⁠⁠⁠Autism Central website⁠⁠⁠⁠ for FREE NHS-funded 1:1 coaching sessions, events and resources for families of autistic people in England and their support networks. Subscribe to our ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠FREE newsletter⁠⁠ Connect with Hazel https://chineseautism.org.uk Connect with Catherine  Email: [email protected] Website I Instagram I Art  Books: Rediscovered and Still Living

In this episode Catherine Asta is joined by writer, birthkeeper and filmmaker Lucy Baena to explore the often-overlooked intersection of autism and epilepsy. Drawing on her lived experience as an autistic and epileptic woman, Lucy shares a deeply personal account of growing up with epilepsy, receiving a late autism diagnosis at 38, and how understanding both has transformed the way she understands herself.  Together they discuss the hidden realities of living with epilepsy beyond seizures, including stigma, disclosure, trauma and the emotional impact of navigating a world that often misunderstands invisible disabilities. Lucy reflects on the challenges of being dismissed by professionals, the overlap between epilepsy and autistic experiences such as shutdowns, meltdowns and burnout, and why listening to lived experience is essential to providing person-centred care.  The conversation also explores practical ways families, friends and professionals can offer meaningful support and Lucy reflects on how self-compassion has become life-changing, why disability does not diminish the possibility of a joyful and meaningful life. What’s on at Autism Central? Explore the ⁠⁠⁠Autism Central website⁠⁠⁠ for FREE NHS-funded 1:1 coaching sessions, events and resources for families of autistic people in England and their support networks. Subscribe to our ⁠⁠⁠⁠FREE newsletter⁠⁠ Connect with Lucy ⁠Instagram ⁠ Connect with Catherine  Email: [email protected] Website I Instagram I Art  Books: Rediscovered and Still Living

In this episode of the Autism Central Podcast, Catherine Asta is joined by AuDHD coach, researcher and positive psychology practitioner Dr Rebecca Jackson to explore practical strategies and everyday tools for daily living. Drawing on both her lived experience and her work supporting neurodivergent adults, she shares why understanding yourself is the foundation for finding tools and approaches that genuinely work.  Together they explore the power of taking a strengths-based approach to neurodivergence, discussing why recognising what comes naturally can improve wellbeing, reduce burnout and help people build lives that feel more aligned with who they really are.  The conversation also explores practical tools and technology that can support daily living, from productivity systems and AI to sensory support, energy management and simple planning strategies. They discuss why there is no one-size-fits-all solution, how to experiment with different approaches without judgement, and why the most effective support is the one that works with your brain rather than against it.  Whether you're autistic, ADHD, AuDHD or supporting someone who is, this episode offers practical ideas emphasizing self-awareness, realistic strategies and the importance of permission and self-compassion. What’s on at Autism Central? Explore the ⁠⁠Autism Central website⁠⁠ for FREE NHS-funded 1:1 coaching sessions, events and resources for families of autistic people in England and their support networks. Subscribe to our ⁠⁠⁠FREE newsletter⁠⁠ Connect with Dr Rebecca Jackson LinkedIn Website Instagram Connect with Catherine  Email: [email protected] Website I Instagram I Art  Books: Rediscovered and Still Living

In this episode Catherine Asta is joined by AuDHD psychotherapist, author and researcher Alexis Quinn to explore what pregnancy, birth and early parenthood can look like for autistic people. Drawing on both her lived experience and the research behind her book Autistic and Expecting, Alexis reflects on how understanding her own neurodivergence transformed her experience of becoming a parent and why autism cannot be separated from the journey into parenthood.  Together they discuss the unique challenges autistic people can face throughout pregnancy, from sensory changes and communication differences to navigating healthcare appointments, uncertainty and the emotional impact of becoming a parent. Alexis shares why understanding your own sensory and communication needs before birth can make a significant difference and explains how planning ahead can help create a more positive and empowering experience.  The conversation explores what autism-inclusive maternity care really looks like, including reasonable adjustments, birth rights, continuity of care and the importance of being listened to without judgement. Catherine and Alexis also discuss practical tools such as maternity passports, preparing for different birth scenarios and building supportive relationships with healthcare professionals and family members throughout pregnancy and beyond.  This is a much needed conversation about informed choice and creating birth experiences where autistic parents feel seen, understood and supported. Alexis reminds us that while pregnancy and birth can feel overwhelming and unpredictable, with the right adjustments, knowledge and support, autistic people can have positive, transformative experiences of becoming parents. What’s on at Autism Central? Explore the ⁠Autism Central website⁠ for FREE NHS-funded 1:1 coaching sessions, events and resources. Subscribe to our ⁠⁠FREE newsletter⁠⁠ Episode Reference Links: ⁠Birth Rights⁠ ⁠Autistic Parents⁠ Connect with Alexis: https://alexisquinn.co.uk/ Books: UNbroken Autistic and Expecting Connect with Catherine  Email: [email protected] Website I Instagram I Art  Books: Rediscovered and Still Living

In this episode Catherine Asta is joined by award-winning autism advocate, author and founder of "Stories About Autism", James Hunt, for a heartfelt conversation about raising autistic children as they move from childhood into adulthood. Drawing on nearly two decades of lived experience parenting his two non-speaking autistic sons, James reflects on how his understanding of autism, communication and fatherhood has evolved over time.  Together they explore the hopes and uncertainties that many families face as autistic young people transition into adulthood. James shares the realities of preparing for life beyond school, balancing hope with understandable fears about future support, independence and long-term care, while explaining why staying present has become one of the most valuable lessons he has learned as a parent.  The conversation shines a light on communication beyond spoken language, from body language and AAC as well as the realities of family life, including sleep deprivation, isolation, building community and the emotional impact of caring. They reflect on why finding other families who truly understand can make such a difference, and how peer support helps parents navigate both the challenges and the joy of raising autistic children.  This is a hopeful conversation about finding acceptance, embracing a different path, celebrating the "inchstones" alongside the milestones and discovering that a meaningful life is often found in the moments you never expected. James reminds us that while the future feels scary and uncertain, there is also joy, connection and hope to be found here in the present. What’s on at Autism Central? Subscribe to our FREE newsletter Explore the Autism Central website for FREE NHS-funded 1:1 coaching sessions, events and resources. Connect with James ⁠Instagram⁠ Jame’s Book: ⁠Love Needs No Words⁠ Connect with Catherine  Email: [email protected] Website I Instagram I Art  Books: Rediscovered and Still Living

In this episode of the Autism Central Podcast, Catherine Asta is joined by family law solicitor and neuroinclusion advocate Hannah Saxe to explore the complex realities of relationship breakdown, divorce and co-parenting through an autistic and neurodivergent lens. Drawing on both her professional expertise and lived experience as a late-diagnosed AuDHD woman and parent of two neurodivergent children, Hannah shares practical guidance for autistic people, parents and carers navigating separation and family law.  Together they discuss the legal basics of divorce, finances, child arrangements and co-parenting, while demystifying a family justice system that can often feel overwhelming and inaccessible. Hannah explains the differences between married and unmarried couples, the growing role of mediation and other out-of-court options, and why seeking the right advice early can make a significant difference.  The conversation also explores the heightened challenges many autistic and neurodivergent people face during relationship breakdown, including burnout, decision fatigue, financial worries and the increased risk of experiencing coercive control or domestic abuse. Hannah shares practical strategies for building a support network, accessing advice and creating boundaries that protect both parents and children during difficult transitions.  Catherine and Hannah discuss the importance of supporting autistic and neurodivergent children through separation, highlighting the value of structure, predictability, communication and consistent approaches across households. They also examine what neuroaffirming support looks like within the family justice system and how new guidance is helping professionals better understand and accommodate neurodivergent needs.  Hannah offers reassurance that, even in the most challenging circumstances, there are pathways forward and growing recognition that neurodivergent people deserve systems that work with them, not against them. What’s on at Autism Central? Subscribe to our FREE newsletter Explore our FREE support - 1:1 sessions, blogs, events  Connect with Hannah brabners.com Connect with Catherine  Email: [email protected] Website Instagram  Books: Rediscovered and Still Living Art

In this first episode of S5, Catherine Asta is joined by award winning advocate Tumi Sotire, a British-born Nigerian with dyspraxia and founder of The Black Dyspraxic, a platform dedicated to championing intersectionality within neurodiversity. Together they unpack common misconceptions about dyspraxia, why it is often misunderstood as ‘just clumsiness’ and how it can affect everything from movement and coordination to organisation, memory, processing and confidence. Tumi shares his own experience of growing up as a Black dyspraxic child, reflecting on diagnosis, bullying, education and the importance of understanding neurodivergence through an intersectional lens. The conversation also explores the hidden emotional and financial costs of dyspraxia, along with the barriers many families face in accessing support. Catherine and Tumi discuss the overlap between dyspraxia and autism, including the reality that dyspraxia is a common co-occurring condition for autistic people. They also explore practical supports and adjustments, from occupational therapy and assistive technology to breaking tasks down into manageable steps and recognising individual strengths. This is a hopeful conversation about self-understanding, advocacy and creating environments where neurodivergent people feel supported to thrive. Tumi reflects on the importance of recognising strengths alongside struggles and why helping children believe in what is possible can make a lifelong difference. What’s on at Autism Central? Subscribe to our FREE newsletter⁠⁠ Explore our FREE support, funded by NHS England - 1:1 coaching, online events and resources Connect with Tumi www.theblackdyspraxic.com Instagram Connect with Catherine  Website Instagram  Books: Rediscovered and Still Living

In this final episode of Season Four of the Autism Central Podcast, Catherine Asta is joined by Emma Kluibenschadl, a passionate advocate, experienced professional and National Group Learning Facilitator Associate with Anna Freud who shares how Autism Central is creating a revolutionary space where families find community, understanding and practical support to help them thrive.  Emma shares a behind the scenes look at what Autism Central offers autistic people, parents, carers and families - from live educational webinars and reflective sessions to one-to-one peer support designed to help people feel less alone. Together, Catherine and Emma explore the emotional realities of parenting and supporting neurodivergent children and young people, including the isolation many families experience, the grief and uncertainty that can come with diagnosis journeys, and the pressure parents often feel to ‘get it right’ in systems that are not built for autistic people. The conversation focuses on the importance of neuroaffirming support, self-care through a neurodivergent lens and creating safe spaces where parents feel heard without judgement - as well as how small shifts in understanding can transform family life. Emma also talks about her son Stefan - who she sadly lost to suicide in March 2022 - and the legacy she and her husband Tristan continue through their work supporting neurodivergent young people and families.  Together, they discuss the power of lived experience, compassionate connection and peer support and why being seen, heard and understood can make such a profound difference to autistic people and the people who love and support them. What’s on at Autism Central? Subscribe to our ⁠FREE newsletter⁠ Explore our ⁠FREE support⁠ - 1:1 sessions, blogs, events  Connect with Catherine  ⁠Website⁠ ⁠Instagram ⁠ Books: ⁠Rediscovered⁠ and ⁠Still Living⁠

In this episode, Catherine Asta is joined by Dr Alison Lennox, a Consultant Neurodevelopmental Psychiatrist to demystify the adult autism assessment process and explore what a good assessment should really offer. Together they unpack common misconceptions about diagnosis along with the fear and uncertainty many people carry into the process. As one of only a few UK psychiatrists working exclusively in adult autism, Alison shares her perspective on what a comprehensive assessment can involve. She reflects on how assessments can be shaped around the individual, why there is no single “gold standard” pathway and how safety, trust and curiosity are central to helping people feel seen and understood. The conversation also explores the realities of masking, invalidation and the emotional weight of seeking an assessment after years of misunderstanding or self-doubt. Catherine and Alison discuss the impact of family dynamics, the challenges of asking others to contribute to the process and the importance of creating space for people to bring their own notes and evidence in whatever form feels right to them. This episode is an honest and compassionate discussion about what an autism assessment can mean, not as an endpoint, but as the beginning of making sense of yourself with greater clarity and self-compassion. Alison also reflects on what happens after assessment, the limits of post-diagnostic support, the need for thoughtful, individualised reports and why understanding autism alongside trauma and mental health requires care, nuance and humanity. What’s on at Autism Central? Subscribe to our FREE newsletter Explore our FREE support - 1:1 sessions, blogs, events  Connect with Dr Alison Lennox https://www.dralisonlennox.com/ Connect with Catherine  Website Instagram  Books: Rediscovered and Still Living

In this episode, Catherine Asta is joined by Dr Helen Lawal to explore the realities of work, identity and wellbeing as a neurodivergent woman navigating a demanding career. Together they reflect on Helen’s journey through medicine, from her early inspiration to become a doctor to the barriers she faced before understanding her ADHD and autism, and how that self-knowledge transformed the way she works and lives. Late-discovered ADHD and autistic, she shares how years of masking, pushing through and internalising struggle led to burnout, low self-esteem and physical and mental health challenges, and how diagnosis helped her reframe those experiences with compassion rather than shame. The conversation explores the practical realities of working life, including sensory overwhelm, information processing, travel, long shifts, memory demands and the importance of reasonable adjustments. Catherine and Helen also discuss the power of understanding strengths, recognising what support is needed and letting go of career expectations that no longer fit.  At the heart of this episode is a hopeful and honest discussion about what helps when life feels overwhelming. Helen shares the practices that support her most, from movement and breath to time in nature, rest and nourishing food, and reflects on how parents and carers can begin to think ahead about supporting young neurodivergent people into adulthood, education and work. What’s on at Autism Central? Subscribe to our FREE newsletter Explore our FREE support - 1:1 sessions, blogs, events  Connect with Dr Helen  www.drhelenlawal.com Connect with Catherine  Website Instagram  Books - Rediscovered and Still Living

In this episode, Catherine Asta is joined by Sophie Cartledge to explore the powerful intersection of perimenopause and late-discovered autism and ADHD. Together they discuss why many autistic and ADHD women describe perimenopause as the point where ‘the wheels fell off’ and how hormonal shifts can amplify sensory sensitivities, emotional regulation challenges and burnout. Late-discovered autistic and ADHD at 44, Sophie speaks openly about how this collision is one of the most misunderstood and unsupported phases of a woman’s life, often leading to burnout, misdiagnosis and workplace exclusion. They reflect on the profound identity shift that can happen when decades of masking are no longer sustainable and how perimenopause can act as a catalyst for unmasking, self-advocacy and redefining what safety and wellbeing look like. The conversation also highlights gaps in healthcare and workplace understanding, the importance of tracking symptoms and the role of peer support in reducing isolation. At the heart of this episode is a compassionate discussion about rebuilding self-trust, reframing needs as preferences and finding practical ways to navigate this often misunderstood stage of life. Sophie shares the mindset shifts and small accommodations that have helped her move towards a more sustainable, authentic way of living. This episode is for you if: - You’re navigating perimenopause/menopause and noticing changes in your sensory sensitivities, emotions and/or capacity. - You’re late-discovered autistic or ADHD and experiencing unmasking or a shift in identity. - You’re feeling dismissed, misunderstood or unsure how to advocate for yourself in healthcare or work. - You’re looking for validation, practical strategies and reassurance that you’re not alone in this experience. What’s on at Autism Central? Subscribe to our FREE newsletter Explore our FREE support - 1:1 sessions, blogs, events  Connect with Sophie www.hormonesontheblink.com Connect with Catherine  Website Instagram  Book

In this episode, Mike and Phil, both mental health nurses and late-diagnosed autistic and ADHD, join Catherine Asta to explore their experiences of fatherhood. They speak about feeling unseen in schools and workplaces, confronting internalised rejection and navigating the expectations placed on fathers about how they ‘should’ show up. Through their own personal reflections, they share the journey of self-discovery that followed their diagnoses alongside their children, and the importance of finding community along the way. At the heart of this conversation is the creation of NADS (Neuroaffirming Dads and Dudes) a local peer support space created by Mike designed specifically for neurodivergent fathers. Mike and Phil discuss how spaces like these allow men to show up as their authentic selves, build connection and transform shame and isolation into strength and solidarity. In this episode we explore: - The challenges they have both faced in parenting, workplaces, and the SEND space. - How societal expectations and stigma can impact fathers navigating autism and ADHD. - The unique strengths neurodivergence brings to their parenting. - Why peer support spaces can be life-changing for fathers. - Tips for dads who want to get more involved in the SEND space. - Practical ways schools, services, and workplaces can better support neurodivergent dads and families. Listener Care: The views shared are personal perspectives from the guests based on their lived experiences. Their reflections highlight some of the barriers they have faced when engaging with schools and support spaces. Along with practical things that dads can do to become more involved in the SEND space, while also recognising the important role many mums and carers already play in advocating for their children. We recognise that many families and professionals are working hard to support children with SEND and that experiences may vary widely. We invite listeners to approach this conversation with curiosity and care. What’s on at Autism Central? Subscribe to our FREE newsletter Explore our FREE support - 1:1 sessions, blogs, events  Connect with Catherine  Website Instagram  Book