Spicy Brain

Lara Sullivan
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  • Mental Health
  • Updated weekly

Spicy Brain is the podcast host Lara Sullivan wished existed when she was diagnosed with autism as an adult. Each week, Lara welcomes guests from across the neurodivergent community for thoughtful conversations that challenge stereotypes, celebrate differences, and highlight the humour and joy that only come from shared life experiences. Spicy Brain is for those diagnosed later in life, those still seeking clarity, or allies of neurodivergent children who want to better understand the world around them.

Episodes

  1. 12 hr ago

    Dr Luke Beardon: AUTISM AT WORK | Autistic Understanding, Adjustments, & Courtesy

    Rethinking Autism at Work: Accommodations, Inclusion, and “Autistic Courtesy” In this episode of The Spicy Brain Podcast, host Lara Sullivan welcomes Dr. Luke Beardon, a leading autism expert, for a focused conversation on autistic experiences in education and the workplace, and what meaningful inclusion actually looks like in practice. Lara and Dr. Beardon explore how understanding of autism has evolved in professional settings, moving away from rigid, one-size-fits-all expectations toward more flexible, individualised approaches. They discuss how workplaces can better support autistic employees not through sweeping policies, but through practical, person-centred reasonable adjustments. The episode also explores:🌶️ How definitions and understanding of autism have changed🌶️ Why traditional workplace structures often create unnecessary barriers for autistic people🌶️ Effective reasonable adjustments in real working environments🌶️ Flexible working, sensory environments, and tailored communication🌶️ The challenges around disclosure in professional settings🌶️ Introducing the idea of “autistic courtesy” and mutual understanding Dr. Beardon explains that workplace challenges for autistic people often stem from environment and inflexible systems rather than ability. He provides examples of adjustments—from sensory-friendly workspaces to clear communication—that boost wellbeing and productivity. The episode covers the complexities of diagnosis disclosure and offers guidance for employers, educators, and families. Together, Lara and Dr. Beardon advocate for systemic changes that move beyond tokenism toward genuine inclusion. Tune in to this episode to hear a thoughtful, hopeful conversation about acceptance, inclusion, and how creating flexible work environments allows autistic people not just to cope but to thrive.Contact SpicyBrainThanks for tuning in to Spicy Bain, the podcast Lara Sullivan created after her own late autism diagnosis. Each week, Lara sits down with guests from across the neurodivergent community to challenge stereotypes, celebrate differences, and laugh through the shared realities of life. For more content visit our website or follow us on your favourite social platform to stay connected. Find out more:Email: hello@spicybrainmedia.com Follow us on social media:Instagram: www.instagram.com/spicybrain.podcast/Follow Lara:Website: linktr.ee/SullivanlaraInstagram: www.instagram.com/sullivanlara/ Follow Dr. Luke Beardon:www.autism.org.uk/what-we-do/autism-know-how/conferences/speakers-profiles/dr-luke-beardonhttps://www.amazon.co.uk/stores/author/B072HC7SHS

    1hr 16min

  2. 26 May

    Could You Be AUTISTIC? Navigating Life Before & After a Late Adult Autism Diagnosis at 27

    Late Autism Diagnosis in Women: Identity, Burnout, and Finding Your Voice In this episode of The Spicy Brain Podcast, host Lara Sullivan shares her deeply personal story of being diagnosed with autism at the age of 27, reflecting on the experiences that led her to seek answers and how that diagnosis reshaped her life. Lara begins by exploring her time during the COVID-19 lockdowns, where she found herself unexpectedly thriving in a quieter, more predictable environment. As life returned to normal, however, she struggled with anxiety and depression, prompting her to question why readjustment felt so overwhelming compared to others. Watching Love on the Spectrum prompted Lara to research autism in adult women, leading to online assessments suggesting a diagnosis. With family support, she pursued a formal assessment in Ireland, detailing the process and the resulting complex feelings of relief, validation, and frustration. The episode also covers:🌶️ Why autism is often missed or misdiagnosed in women🌶️ The impact of masking and late diagnosis on mental health🌶️ Post-diagnosis regression and the emotional aftermath of discovery🌶️ Gaps in representation and research for neurodivergent adults🌶️ Reassessing career paths and environments after diagnosis Lara speaks candidly about the emotional toll of feeling misunderstood and the anger from recognising missed signs earlier. Her diagnosis prompted a career reevaluation, leading her to step away from a corporate role and find a new purpose advocating for neurodiversity and underrepresented voices. Tune in for an honest and insightful conversation about late autism diagnosis, identity, and self-acceptance, and how understanding your neurodivergence can open the door to a more aligned and authentic life. Contact SpicyBrain Thanks for tuning in to Spicy Bain, the podcast Lara Sullivan created after her own late autism diagnosis. Each week, Lara sits down with guests from across the neurodivergent community to challenge stereotypes, celebrate differences, and laugh through the shared realities of life. For more content visit our website or follow us on your favourite social platform to stay connected. Find out more:Email: spicybrain.production@gmail.com Follow us on social media:Instagram: www.instagram.com/spicybrain.podcast/Follow Lara:Website: linktr.ee/SullivanlaraInstagram: www.instagram.com/sullivanlara/

    45 min
  • 2 Episodes

About

Spicy Brain is the podcast host Lara Sullivan wished existed when she was diagnosed with autism as an adult. Each week, Lara welcomes guests from across the neurodivergent community for thoughtful conversations that challenge stereotypes, celebrate differences, and highlight the humour and joy that only come from shared life experiences. Spicy Brain is for those diagnosed later in life, those still seeking clarity, or allies of neurodivergent children who want to better understand the world around them.

Information

  • Creator
    Lara Sullivan
  • Years Active
    2k
  • Episodes
    2
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Lara Sullivan

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