NDV Podcast: A project by Neurodiverse Voices

Andreia Costa
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The NDV Podcast is part of the Neurodiverse Voices project and celebrates the beauty of human differences by sharing real stories from the neurodivergent community. Hosted by Andreia Costa, a late-diagnosed ADHDer and mother of an autistic daughter, the podcast brings together parents, professionals, advocates, and researchers for honest, compassionate conversations. Together, they explore lived experiences, challenge systems that exclude, and imagine a world where neurodiversity is truly understood, valued, and embraced.

  1. From Survival Mode to Connection: Understanding Meltdowns, Shame & the PAUSE Method with Laura

    FEB 7

    From Survival Mode to Connection: Understanding Meltdowns, Shame & the PAUSE Method with Laura

    In this deeply honest and compassionate episode of the NDVPodcast, Andreia is joined by Laura Ellis, founder of Sensory Mother, teacher, coach, and parent to neurodivergent children. Laura shares her personal journey through parental burnout,survival mode, and overwhelming shame — and how years of misunderstanding her son’s meltdowns as “behaviour” led her to hit rock bottom. From that place, Laura rebuilt not only her relationship with her child, but her entire career. Together, Andreia and Laura explore: What survival mode really looks and feels like for parentsWhy meltdowns are nervous system responses, not bad behaviourThe hidden impact of school and sensory overloadShame, guilt, and the impossible standards placed on parentsWhy connection must come before correctionLaura introduces her PAUSE Method — five simple, practicalsteps that help parents respond to meltdowns with empathy, clarity, and confidence, without needing a degree in autism or ADHD. This episode is a powerful reminder that: Your child is not giving you a hard time — they arehaving a hard time. And you are not failing as a parent. A must-listen for parents, carers, educators, and anyonesupporting neurodivergent children. Links:The Sensory Mother The PAUSE Method You Gotta Be by Des'ree

    1h 32m
  2. Finding the Words with Harriet: The Power of Diagnosis in Self-Discovery

    JAN 24

    Finding the Words with Harriet: The Power of Diagnosis in Self-Discovery

    In this episode of the NDV Podcast, Andreia Costa is joined by novelist, blogger, and autistic advocate Harriet Bueno de Mesquita for a deeply reflective conversation about identity, creativity, and late autism diagnosis. Harriet shares her journey of being diagnosed autistic at 36, how writing became a vital form of self-expression, and why she is passionate about representing autistic women in fiction. We explore her debut novel The Magical Summer of Evie Adelman, a story about neurodivergence, belonging, and finding your place in the world, as well as her blog Life with a Label: The Diary of an Autistic Girl. Together, we discuss masking, burnout, autism and womanhood, Jewish identity, creativity, and the importance of being seen and understood — both within and beyond the autistic community. This episode is an honest and thoughtful exploration of what it means to live, create, and thrive as a neurodivergent woman. Links: Life with a label - The Diary of an Autistic Girl The Magickal Summer of Evie Edelman Autieharriet Instagram Maya Plisetskaya Miley Cyrus - The Climb Carrie Underwood - I told you so

    1h 9m
  3. Laughing Outside the Box: Matt’s Neurodivergent Journey Through Comedy

    JAN 10

    Laughing Outside the Box: Matt’s Neurodivergent Journey Through Comedy

    In this episode of the Neurodiverse Voices podcast, hostAndreia Costa interviews comedian Matt Richardson, who shares his experiences growing up in a neurodiverse family. Matt discusses his late diagnosis of ADHD, the dynamics of supporting his brother Alex, who is autistic, and how their family navigated these challenges. He reflects on the importance of patience, understanding, and the role of humour in coping with neurodiversity. The conversation also touches on the stigma surrounding ADHD medication, thesignificance of family support, and the impact of neurodivergence on personal and professional life. Matt emphasizes the need for self-awareness and kindnesstowards oneself and others in the neurodivergent community. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Richardson Family 03:37 Understanding Neurodiversity in Family Dynamics 08:48 The Journey to Diagnosis 11:42 Reflections on ADHD and Life Changes 14:26 Balancing Personal Needs and Family Dynamics 17:50 Memories and Strengths from Childhood 21:45 The Role of Comedy in Neurodiversity Awareness 24:31 Navigating Seriousness and Humor in Neurodiversity 24:56 Understanding ADHD and Stigma 27:57 The Role of Medication in Mental Health 30:56 Navigating Life with ADHD 32:10 Advice for Siblings of Neurodivergent Individuals 33:57 The Impact of ADHD on Professional Life 35:49 Support Systems and Family Influence 38:40 Self-Care and Wellbeing 39:38 Inspiration from Family 40:52 Superpowers and Making a Difference 41:45 Musical Resonance and Personal Journey 42:36 Reflections on Childhood 43:34 Heartfelt Messages and Positivity Links: Matt Richardson Alex Richardson Welcome to Holland Gavin Partridge ADHD Clinic Right to Choose Hannah Gadsby Joe Wells Helen & Douglas Comedy Gala 2026 Green Day - Basket Case

    48 min
  4. Navigating Neurodiversity: Ana’s Journey Through ADHD and Parenting

    12/20/2025

    Navigating Neurodiversity: Ana’s Journey Through ADHD and Parenting

    In this episode of the Neurodiverse Voices podcast, hostAndreia Costa speaks with Ana Bonasera, a certified ADHD coach and mother of five neurodivergent children. Ana shares her personal journey navigating ADHD and autism assessments, the challenges of parenting neurodivergent children, and the importance of mental health. The conversation explores the daily dynamics of a busy household, the joys and struggles of raising neurodivergentkids, and the impact of neurodivergence on sibling relationships. Ana emphasizes the need for advocacy and coaching in the neurodiverse community, aswell as the significance of self-care for parents. In this conversation, Ana Bonasera shares her journey as a neurodivergent parent and ADHD coach,discussing the profound impact of coaching on her life and the lives of her children. She emphasizes the importance of accountability, understanding the education system, and navigating the challenges of parenting neurodivergentchildren. Ana also highlights the need for better support and awareness within the education system, the significance of small wins in daily life, and the importance of finding a sense of belonging. The conversation concludes withmessages of hope and the aspiration for a more inclusive future for neurodivergent individuals.Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Neurodiversity and ParentingChallenges 04:32 Navigating ADHD and Autism Assessments 10:34 Reflections on Childhood and Early Signs ofNeurodivergence 15:08 Mental Health Struggles as a Parent Carer 19:44 A Day in the Life of a Neurodivergent Family 25:43 Challenges and Joys of Parenting NeurodivergentChildren 32:21 The Impact of Neurodivergence on Sibling Relationships 39:46 Coaching and Advocacy in the Neurodiverse Community 39:54 The Impact of Coaching on ADHD 44:01 Navigating the Journey of Neurodivergent Parenting 48:31 Understanding the Education System for NeurodivergentFamilies 54:00 Overcoming Misconceptions and Judgments 58:11 Celebrating Small Wins in Neurodivergent Lives 01:01 Future Aspirations and Personal Growth 01:07 Finding Inspiration in Everyday Life 01:10 Messages of Hope and Belonging Links Parent Carer Connect Parent Carer Roadmap Ana Bonasera Instagram Ana Bonasera Facebook

    1h 17m
  5. Building Resilience Through Neurodiversity: Nicole on Dyslexia and Mental Health

    12/06/2025

    Building Resilience Through Neurodiversity: Nicole on Dyslexia and Mental Health

    In this episode of the NDV Podcast, Nicole Wareing sharesher personal and professional journey with dyslexia, discussing the challenges she faced in education, the importance of support systems, and her passion formental health advocacy. She highlights the need for understanding and accommodations for neurodivergent individuals, the resilience she developedthrough adversity, and her aspirations to make a difference in the lives of families navigating similar experiences. Nicole emphasizes the significance of emotional intelligence, creative learning strategies, and the power of connection in fostering well-being and growth. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Nicole's Journey 07:24 Understanding Dyslexia and Its Challenges 12:29 Navigating Misunderstandings in Education 16:03 Building Resilience Through Adversity 21:27 Support Systems and Accommodations 30:11 Career Path and Passion for Mental Health 37:26 Making a Difference in Families' Lives 44:33 Redesigning Support for Neurodivergent Individuals 47:54 Personal Strategies for Well-Being Links:CAMHS (Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services)OXPCF – Oxfordshire Parent Carer ForumAccess to Work (UK Government)NHS Mental Health & Neurodevelopmental ServicesDyslexia Information - British Dyslexia Association Ambiguous Loss explained Mario Kart Spider Man Tom Holland Linkin Park - One More Light

    1h 6m
  6. From Diagnosis to Self-Compassion: Kay’s Story of Healing and Embodiment

    11/01/2025

    From Diagnosis to Self-Compassion: Kay’s Story of Healing and Embodiment

    In this powerful and deeply human conversation, we’re joined by Kay Louise Aldred, Development Lead at Neurodiverse Connection, who shares her journey of late diagnosis, self-understanding, and holistic healing. Diagnosed as autistic at 47 and meeting the criteria for ADHD, Kay reflects on how her children’s diagnoses led her to seek her own — validating years of challenges and finally helping her depathologise her identity. Through grief, discovery, and growth, Kay found belonging and empowerment in community and embodiment. We explore:The experience of late diagnosis and the rollercoaster of emotions that follow;The connection between trauma, chronic burnout, and unmet neurodivergent needs;The body–mind relationship, menopause, and how typical medical advice often fails neurodivergent women;Kay’s Neurodivergent Wellbeing Approach, grounded in compassion, sensory awareness, and nervous system regulation;Why “less is more” when it comes to healing and why slowing down creates safety and self-acceptance. Kay shares practical wisdom — from grounding in nature and rest to cultivating an internal voice of kindness. We also unpack the harms of behavioural modification methods like PBS and ABA, and why it’s time to replace them with curiosity and self-compassion. This episode is a reminder that being different isn’t something to fix — it’s something to embrace. Links: Kay Louise Aldred Kay’s books Neurodiverse Connection PBS & ABA research —campaign edition Embodied education Alanis Morissette - Ironic Simon & Garfunkel - Sound of Silence

    1h 5m
  7. Creating Change Through Film with Autistic Filmmaker John Clark

    10/18/2025

    Creating Change Through Film with Autistic Filmmaker John Clark

    In this episode, I’m joined by John Clark — afilmmaker, scriptwriter, director, and advocate with lived experience of autism. Diagnosed with Asperger’s at just four years old, John’s journey has been one of self-discovery, resilience, and creative expression. John shares how, as a child, he struggled with socialinteraction and masking, often feeling “weird” or isolated until open conversations with his mum helped him begin to understand himself. In his twenties, the constant fatigue from masking became overwhelming, but letting goof it brought him a sense of liberation. We dive into how his lived experience has directly inspiredhis filmmaking. From Aspergers and What of It?—a finalist in the National Autistic Society’s Autism Uncut competition—to Snapshot, which highlighted the barriers autistic people face in employment, John has used film to challenge misconceptions, depict the realities of stress andanxiety, and spotlight the importance of reasonable adjustments in the workplace. John also talks about his latest project, Idøle,inspired by research with neurodivergent and disabled communities as well as his wife’s experiences with fibromyalgia. The film addresses microaggressions,stigma around disability benefits, and the devastating impact of diagnostic overshadowing in the medical system. With crowdfunding plans in the works, Johnhopes to bring this important story to life. Beyond filmmaking, John delivers the Oliver McGowanTraining, advocates for better understanding of hidden disabilities, and reflects on his unexpected but rewarding journey into fatherhood. We also discuss the challenges autistic people face in recruitment, the dilemma ofdisclosing neurodivergence to employers, and recent government changes to PIP. This is a powerful conversation about creativity, advocacy,and the reality of living — and thriving — as an autistic adult in a world full of barriers. Links: National Autistic Society - John Clark National Autistic Society I have Asperger’s – And What of it? SnapshotSia film - Music Iambic 9 Poetry - Squarepusher Oliver McGowan training

    1h 33m
  8. Raising Alex: Mandy Richardson’s Journey with Autism

    10/04/2025

    Raising Alex: Mandy Richardson’s Journey with Autism

    In this episode of the NDV Podcast, I sit down with MandyRichardson, who shares her journey as the mum of Alex, a neurodivergentyoung man and past guest of the podcast. Mandy reflects on what it was like raising Alex more than 20years ago, when there was little understanding of autism and very limited information available. She talks about the challenges of navigating sensory issues, advocating for support in schools, and the loneliness she often felt atthe beginning of the journey. Through it all, Mandy became Alex’s strongest voice—celebrating every milestone, standing up for his needs, and never losing hope. She also highlights the amazing teachers, tutors,therapists, family, and friends who played such an important role in Alex’s growth, from helping him manage sensory triggers to encouraging him to thrive in radio, filmmaking, and public speaking. Today, Alex inspires Mandy dailywith his joy, fearlessness, and independence. Mandy now works in education, helping families withDisability Living Allowance (DLA) applications and advocating for better awareness and support. Her advice to parents is simple but powerful: celebrate every achievement, be your child’s voice, and never give up. This conversation is about resilience, advocacy, andlove—and a reminder, through the “Welcome to Holland” poem, that even when life takes us on an unexpected path, it can be just as beautiful.  Links: Welcome to Holland By Emily Perl Kingsley National Autistic Society Alex Richardson Alex Richardson on the NDV Podcast

    33 min
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About

The NDV Podcast is part of the Neurodiverse Voices project and celebrates the beauty of human differences by sharing real stories from the neurodivergent community. Hosted by Andreia Costa, a late-diagnosed ADHDer and mother of an autistic daughter, the podcast brings together parents, professionals, advocates, and researchers for honest, compassionate conversations. Together, they explore lived experiences, challenge systems that exclude, and imagine a world where neurodiversity is truly understood, valued, and embraced.

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