Autism, ADHD and Us Three

Jenny Lucas
  • 5.0 (3)
  • KIDS & FAMILY
  • UPDATED MONTHLY

A late diagnosed mum’s guide to keeping calm through the chaos (or trying to!). Hello I'm Jenny. I'm a late diagnosed, AuDHD, elder millennial mum trying to figure out who I am post diagnosis and how I can best support my two AuDHD daughters. Come along with us for some relatable adventures, useful strategies and to help me create a safe and comfortable space for us all to grow together. Hit that subscribe button below for more info and to join the clan

  1. MAR 1

    S3 E7: The Post Diagnosis Crash No One Warns You About

    If you thought finally getting your autism or ADHD diagnosis would feel like pure relief… and instead you feel exhausted, foggy, emotional or completely flattened… this one’s for you. In this solo episode of Autism, ADHD and Us Three, Jenny breaks down something nobody really warns you about. The post-diagnosis crash. She explains why so many late-diagnosed neurodivergent adults experience burnout after finally getting answers, and why this isn’t weakness, regression or you not coping well enough. It is physiology. Jenny explores what happens inside the nervous system after decades of masking, hypervigilance and pushing through environments that were never built for your brain. She talks about the relief that comes with diagnosis, and why that relief can actually trigger shutdown, exhaustion and emotional fallout. Inside this episode: Why diagnosis can act like a circuit breaker for your nervous systemHow ADHD hyperfocus and autistic deep processing can accelerate burnoutThe physical signs of nervous system recalibrationWhy you cannot “optimise” your way out of this phasePractical ways to stabilise when everything feels too muchWhat real recovery actually looks likeThis episode is a permission slip to slow down. To stop turning yourself into a project. To let your body land after years of survival mode. If you are in that shaky “who am I now?” space… you are not alone. 🎧 Chapters 00:00 Introduction and episode overview01:05 Relief and the unexpected crash01:34 Why burnout happens after diagnosis02:30 What is happening inside the body and brain03:34 Masking, hypervigilance and chronic stress05:48 The nervous system under long-term pressure07:42 Diagnosis as a circuit breaker08:36 Physical signs of recalibration09:29 Identity shifts and psychological changes10:54 Grief after diagnosis12:13 The post-diagnosis crash explained12:53 ADHD hyperfocus and autistic deep processing13:44 Medication and increased sensory awareness15:09 Nervous system regulation and perceived regression17:02 Acceptance and self-compassion20:42 What to actually do during burnout21:34 Myths about strength and recovery22:55 Practical regulation and self-care23:50 Small steps that help24:46 Community and support28:00 Final encouragement 💛 Work With Me & Next Steps Join my free 5 day live experience Unlearning the Bullshithttps://welcome.audhdistically.me/unlearning-bs-registration New here? Start here:https://welcome.audhdistically.me/start-here Sign up for The Positivity Pause newsletter:https://www.audhdistically.me Connect with me on Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/audhdistically.me

    30 min

  2. FEB 1

    S3 E6: Understanding Autism and ADHD Assessments for Children and Families

    In this episode, Jenny Lucas speaks with Leanne Tran, a registered psychologist specializing in assessments for autism, ADHD, and specific learning disorders. They discuss the importance of early diagnosis and support for neurodiverse children, the impact of parental neurodiversity, and the assessment process. Leanne shares insights on navigating the challenges of accessing support in rural areas and the significance of individualized support in schools. The conversation emphasizes the need for understanding self-identity in neurodiverse children and innovative approaches to parental support.Contact Leanne Tran: https://learn.leannetran.com.au/ https://www.instagram.com/leannetranpsychology/ Contact Jenny Lucashttps://welcome.audhdistically.me/start-here https://www.facebook.com/Audhdistically.me https://www.instagram.com/audhdistically.me/ https://www.tiktok.com/@audhdistically.me Keywords neurodiversity, autism, ADHD, assessments, parental support, self-identity, rural access, school support, psychological assessments, early diagnosis Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Neurodiversity and Early Support 02:48 Understanding Parental Neurodiversity 05:16 The Importance of Self-Identity in Assessments 08:00 Navigating the Assessment Process 10:35 Challenges in Accessing Assessments 13:15 Working with Schools for Support 16:02 The Role of Online Resources 18:45 Innovative Support Strategies for Parents 21:22 Conclusion and Resources for Families

    32 min

  3. JAN 4

    S3 E5: Beyond Diagnosis: The 7 Steps That Helped My Child Speak Again with Taiba Bajar

    In this powerful and deeply validating episode of Autism, ADHD and Us Three, Jenny is joined by TEDx speaker and bestselling author Taiba Bajar, whose personal and professional work has supported thousands of families navigating autism regression, burnout, and neurodivergent parenting. Taiba shares her own son’s story of autistic regression which included a sudden loss of speech, connection, and developmental milestones, and the heart breaking gaslighting many parents face when they try to speak up about it. Together, she and Jenny explore the emotional toll of being dismissed, the grief of watching your child change before your eyes, and the quiet strength it takes to keep fighting for answers. Taiba also breaks down her 7-Step Autism Action Plan, as featured in her book Unlock Autism: A Parent’s Guide to Help Your Child Recover Skills and Reduce Symptoms. From gut healing and oxytocin support to functional blood testing and nervous system care, she outlines practical, parent-led strategies that aim to reduce symptom severity without erasing identity. This is not about fixing children. It’s about giving them the physiological safety and support to thrive and helping parents feel empowered instead of exhausted. Keywords Autism regression Autistic burnout in adults Neurodivergent parenting Late autism diagnosis Gut-brain connection Unlock Autism book Functional autism support Symptom relief vs acceptance Trauma-informed parenting ADHD and sensory issues ---------------------------Website: www.autismbrainempowerment.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/autismbrainempowerment/LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/taibabajar

    49 min

  4. 12/07/2025

    S3 E4 Navigating PDA: A Journey of Understanding and Support

    If you’ve ever found yourself whisper-screaming “Why won’t they just DO it?” in the hallway while your child refuses to put socks on for the tenth time… this one’s for you. In this episode of Autism, ADHD and Us Three, Jenny sits down with Emma McDonnell, a neurodivergent mother navigating life, education, and holidays with children who have Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) which is a profile of autism that turns traditional parenting advice completely on its head. Emma shares her real, raw journey from career woman to full-time carer, unpacking the WTF is happening?! moments that come with raising PDAers, and the mindset shifts that helped her move from panic to presence. Together, they explore:– Why compliance isn’t the goal– How self-compassion might actually be your best parenting strategy– The emotional landmines of holiday expectations– And why “well-being” doesn’t have to mean spa days or 5am journaling This episode is a permission slip for anyone parenting neurodivergent children through systems that don’t understand them and doing it while running on fumes. Keywords PDA parentingAutism and demand avoidanceNeurodivergent motherhoodHoliday stress & family dynamicsMental health and well-beingEducation & unmet needsTrauma-informed parentingSelf-compassion for mumsAutistic children and schoolEmotional regulation in ND families ----------------------------- Email: emma@emma-mcdonnell.comWebsite: emma-mcdonnell.comInstagram: @theemmamcdonnell

    56 min

  5. 11/02/2025

    S3 E3: Autism, ADHD and Me: Your No B******t Guide to Life After Late Diagnosis

    In this episode, Jenny Lucas discusses her newly launched book, 'Autism ADHD and Me: You're No B******t Guide to Life After Late Diagnosis.' Buy your copy here: https://amzn.to/4o58FQf She shares her personal journey of writing the book, the challenges she faced during her late diagnosis of ADHD and autism, and the importance of self-love and acceptance. The conversation delves into the themes of internalised ableism, navigating relationships, and the significance of community support. Jenny emphasises the need for resources that resonate with neurodivergent individuals and the transformative power of understanding oneself post-diagnosis.------------------------------- 👉 ⁠Take the Free Confidence Quiz⁠ 👉 ⁠Sign up for the Positivity Pause Newsletter⁠ 👉 Follow me on TikTok, Instagram, Facebook & LinkedIn @audhdistically.me Email Jenny @ audhdistically.me -------------------------------- Keywords Autism, ADHD, neurodivergence, late diagnosis, self-love, internalized ableism, book launch, personal journey, relationships, community support Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Book Launch 05:42 The Purpose Behind the Book 11:23 Chapter Insights: Key Themes 16:44 The Importance of Self-Love 22:18 The Role of Community and Feedback

    32 min

  6. 10/05/2025

    S3 E2: Primitive reflexes 101: what they are and why they can matter for neurodivergent brains.

    Welcome back! Before we dive in, if you’re enjoying the podcast, I’d love you to leave a quick review. It really helps more neurodivergent women like us find these conversations. In this episode, I’m joined by the brilliant Niki McGlynn, a neurodevelopmental therapist and trainer, who brings her personal story of late diagnosis and her deep expertise in primitive reflexes. We dig into what primitive reflexes actually are, why they matter for autistic and ADHD brains, and how retained reflexes can shape everything from emotional regulation to sensory processing and even people pleasing. Niki shares practical insights into reflex integration therapy, a movement-based approach that helps the nervous system let go of unintegrated reflexes. We talk about why movement is so powerful for brain development, how small exercises can make a big difference at home, and why advocacy in schools and clinical settings is essential. This episode is full of lightbulb moments, especially if you’ve ever wondered why you (or your child) struggle with focus, anxiety, or overwhelm, despite working so hard. Niki’s approach doesn’t “cure” neurodivergence (and why would we want it to?) but it does offer hope for reducing the struggles while keeping all the brilliance. 🌐 Find Niki here: Organised Mind📱 Instagram: @_organisedmind ✨ Ready to go deeper? Join my world here: Sign up to my newsletter for weekly insights Join the Facebook community to connect with other late-diagnosed women Join the book waitlist for Autism, ADHD and Me — launching 28 October 2025! Keywords: neurodivergence, ADHD, autism, primitive reflexes, emotional regulation, reflex integration therapy, sensory processing, late diagnosis, parenting, advocacy Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Neurodivergence and Personal Journeys03:22 Understanding Primitive Reflexes and Their Impact06:10 The Connection Between Reflexes and Neurodivergence08:58 Reflex Integration Therapy: How It Works11:25 Benefits of Reflex Integration Therapy14:13 Addressing Sensory Processing and Emotional Regulation17:01 The Role of Movement in Brain Development19:45 Navigating Adult Life with Retained Reflexes22:18 Advocacy for Neurodivergent Individuals25:21 Practical Tips for Parents and Individuals27:48 Conclusion and Resources

    34 min

  7. 09/07/2025

    S3 E1: Navigating friendships as a late diagnosed AuDHDer

    ✨ Show Notes: Autism, ADHD and Us Three Friendship can be one of the most complicated parts of life and when you add autism or ADHD into the mix, it often feels even more confusing. In this episode, I share my own experiences as a late-diagnosed woman navigating friendships: the longing for people who really “get” you, the heartbreak when connections fade without explanation, and the messy reality of figuring out who feels safe to be your unmasked self around. I talk about my own childhood memories of feeling different, how that shaped me as an adult, and what I notice now in my children’s friendships too. We’ll explore why making and keeping friends can feel so hard, why closure is often missing, and the universal desire to be truly known and loved anyway. Whether you’re reflecting on friendships that slipped away, searching for more authentic connections, or just wanting reassurance that you’re not alone in these struggles this episode will meet you right where you are. What you’ll hear in this episode: Why friendships can feel so different when you’re late-diagnosed ADHD or autistic The challenges children (and adults) face with social dynamics How masking impacts connection and belonging Why friendships evolve over time — and why that’s both hard and normal The universal desire to be seen, accepted, and loved for who you are 🎧 Listen now and know you’re not alone. If this episode resonates, make sure you’re on the waitlist for my upcoming book launching in October 2025. You’ll get early updates and even the chance to win a signed copy. 👉 Join the Book Waitlist👉 Take the Free Confidence Quiz👉 Sign up for the Positivity Pause Newsletter 👉 Follow me on TikTok, Instagram, Facebook & LinkedIn @audhdistically.me Email Jenny @ audhdistically.me Keywords: ADHD, autism, AuDHD, friendships, late diagnosis, parenting, social dynamics, relationships, connection, community

    21 min

  8. 07/06/2025

    S2 E11 (Season finale) Unmasking the Lies: You were never broken, just unseen

    Season 2 Finale. If this resonated with you, share with someone who needs it, get in touch with me or leave a review so others can find our community and get support too. Summary In this episode, Jenny Lucas reflects on the internalized lies that neurodivergent individuals often carry, particularly those diagnosed with autism or ADHD later in life. She discusses the impact of these lies on self-perception, emotional responses, and social interactions. The conversation emphasizes the importance of unmasking these beliefs to foster self-acceptance and understanding. Jenny also shares insights from her personal journey, highlighting the complexities of navigating life as a neurodivergent individual and the significance of self-compassion and communication in relationships. 💌 Want a weekly boost of positive psychology self-compassion and gratitude direct to your inbox. Sign up for The Positivity Pause: ⁠https://www.audhdistically.me/get-my-newsletter⁠ 📖 I’m writing a book for late-diagnosed autistic ADHD women. Join the waitlist to be the first to hear updates: ⁠https://www.audhdistically.me/book-waitlist⁠ 📅 Want to explore working together? Book a free 15-minute discovery call: ⁠https://tidycal.com/audhdisticallyme/15min20240410095342⁠ Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Season Wrap-Up 09:43 Understanding Sensitivity and Emotional Responses 17:30 Disorganization and Executive Functioning 27:39 Conclusion and Encouragement Keywords neurodivergence, unmasking, internalised lies, autism, ADHD, emotional responses, social interactions, self-perception, people-pleasing, masking, AuDHD

    31 min
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About

A late diagnosed mum’s guide to keeping calm through the chaos (or trying to!). Hello I'm Jenny. I'm a late diagnosed, AuDHD, elder millennial mum trying to figure out who I am post diagnosis and how I can best support my two AuDHD daughters. Come along with us for some relatable adventures, useful strategies and to help me create a safe and comfortable space for us all to grow together. Hit that subscribe button below for more info and to join the clan

Information

  • Creator
    Jenny Lucas
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    28
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Jenny Lucas
  • Show Website
    Autism, ADHD and Us Three

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