Unapologetically Whole

Lola Dada-Olley
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Unapologetically Whole is the podcast for anyone who’s ever felt invisible while holding everyone else together. Hosted by attorney, advocate, and lifelong caregiver Lola Dada-Olley, this show is a raw, honest invitation to reclaim your story and rebuild your sense of self without abandoning your responsibilities or values. Through deeply personal storytelling and candid conversations, Lola explores the layers we carry: as caregivers, professionals, parents, partners, and cycle-breakers navigating cultural stigma, trauma, and the pursuit of wholeness in a world that often asks us to disappear.  Each episode offers a practical, three-part framework for transformation: Recognize the lane you’re in, Redefine success beyond external validation, and Reimagine what it means to truly thrive. You’ll hear real lessons from lived experience—how to hold the tension between vigilance and joy, how to honor incremental progress, and how to shine your light in a world that can feel dark. Whether you’re a caregiver, a leader, or simply someone searching for permission to exist beyond your roles, Unapologetically Whole bridges the gap between personal healing and professional reinvention, creating space for authentic community and honest growth.  This podcast is the companion to Lola’s forthcoming memoir, Unapologetically Whole: A Memoir About Autism, Caregiving, and Owning Your Story, coming June 2026. If these conversations resonate with you, help us extend the reach—subscribe, share with a friend, and leave a rating or review. Your voice helps others find the hope, healing, and wholeness they deserve.

  1. 5D AGO

    Your Body and Soul Remembers: A Short Reflection with Lola

    Send a text In this conversation, Lola Dada-Olley shares her personal journey of navigating the complexities of caregiving, trauma, and the pursuit of wholeness. She reflects on the challenges faced as a caregiver, the impact of trauma on her life, and the importance of embracing vulnerability and compassion. Lola emphasizes that healing is a continuous process and encourages listeners to redefine their understanding of success and leadership in a way that honors their experiences and promotes a sense of safety and connection. Takeaways There is a moment in every caregiver's life when your body tells the truth before your mouth ever does.Trauma doesn't always arrive with sirens; it can show up as irritability or autopilot.Fear can convince you that survival is the same thing as living.Trauma-informed living is for mothers, caregivers, and anyone who has carried more than their fair share.Honor the impact of trauma with compassion, not shame.Redefine success as presence and connection, not perfection.Your children's healing is connected to your own.Trauma-informed leadership is about humanity, not titles.You're allowed to build a life that feels safe in your own body.Wholeness is a daily choice and a quiet revolution. Sound bites "Trauma is sneaky like that." "Fear is a terrible leader." "You're worthy of that revolution." Chapters 00:00 The Weight of Caregiving and Trauma 01:57 Understanding Trauma-Informed Living 04:00 Redefining Success and Leadership 05:37 Embracing Wholeness and Healing Support the show www.loladadaolley.com

    9 min

  2. FEB 12

    Trauma Informed Living: Reclaiming Wholeness

    Send a text In this powerful episode, Lola Dada-Olley speaks with Neresia Osborne, therapist, mother, advocate and lifetime caregiver. This episode only scratches the surface in unlocking the depth of her personal account of navigating birth trauma, systemic racism, and rediscovery. This episode offers clear insights into how one could possibly recognize their own lane, redefine success on their own terms, and build resilience through authentic self-awareness. Because parts of her journey deal with detailed personal recollections of trauma, discretion is advised.  Key topics: The impact of birth trauma and systemic racism on Black women’s health and mental well-beingLearning to recognize and embrace one’s lane amidst societal expectationsThe role of hope multipliers and community support in healing and reimagining lifeHow existentialism illuminates the path to self-awareness and wholenessPractical strategies for boundaries, self-care, and creating sacred spaces for Black familiesThe importance of visibility and authentic storytelling in dismantling systemic barriersTimestamps: 00:00 - Introduction: The importance of understanding systemic barriers and personal wholeness 02:20 - Recognizing your lane: From trauma to self-awareness 04:45 - Birth trauma and systemic neglect: A personal account 08:24 - The role of systemic racism in healthcare experiences 11:18 - The physical and emotional aftermath of traumatic birth 16:32 - Connecting systemic issues with cultural stigma and expectations 19:02 - Recognizing the need for self-care and redefinition of success 24:22 - Building a supportive environment through education and community support 27:30 - The influence of hope multipliers and authentic space-making 33:43 - Reintegrating systemic work and personal healing through therapy and advocacy 42:35 - How existentialism helps to see the fullness of oneself 44:12 - Owning your story: The power of visibility and authenticity 50:02 - The long journey: Deconstruction, deprogramming, and sitting in the process 53:09 - Establishing boundaries as a pathway to reimagining thriving 55:19 - The foundation of a trauma-informed therapy and coaching practice 60:49 - The significance of sacred spaces and working from the 'open heart' 66:35 - Legacy, impact, and the importance of nurturing future generations 66:44 - Final lesson: Believe in your worth and own your truth Resources & Links: Neresia Osborne - LinkedInThe Open Heart Model (concept overview) Support the show www.loladadaolley.com

    57 min

  3. JAN 29

    Owning Your Story: A Short Reflection with Lola

    Send a text In this episode of Unapologetically Whole, Lola Dada-Olley shares her personal journey of self-advocacy and wholeness, exploring themes of identity, caregiving, and resilience. Through intimate reflections and powerful storytelling, she encourages listeners to own their stories and advocate for themselves with intention and courage. Takeaways: Your story matters and deserves to be told.Self-advocacy is a muscle that grows with use.Wholeness is the integration of all parts of your story.Perfection is not the goal; wholeness is.Guilt can be a barrier to healing.Healing begins when you stop negotiating with guilt.Self-advocacy starts with small steps like asking for help.You are worthy of the life you are building.The world needs you whole, not perfect.Embrace the journey of self-discovery and growth.Sound bites: Your story matters.Self-advocacy is a muscle.Wholeness is integration.Perfection was never the assignment.Guilt is a barrier.Healing begins with acceptance.Ask for help.You are worthy.The world needs you whole.Embrace your journey.Chapters: Introduction to Unapologetically Whole The Journey of Self-Advocacy Embracing Wholeness Overcoming Guilt and HealingEmpowerment and Personal GrowthSupport the show www.loladadaolley.com

    9 min
  4. The Non-Linear Journey to Healing: A Talk with Author and Self Advocate Lisa Hurley

    JAN 15

    The Non-Linear Journey to Healing: A Talk with Author and Self Advocate Lisa Hurley

    Send a text Summary In this conversation, Lisa Hurley and Lola Dada-Olley explore the complexities of healing, emphasizing that it is a non-linear journey filled with ups and downs. They discuss the importance of embracing stillness and practicing gratitude as essential components of emotional well-being. Takeaways Healing is definitely not linear.Sometimes healing can feel like it's going up and down.Periods of stillness are important in the healing process.Trusting stillness is crucial to avoid anxiety about the future.Introspection plays a vital role in personal growth.Expressing gratitude can enhance emotional well-being.There is always something to be grateful for, even in tough times.Healing requires patience and self-compassion.The journey of healing is unique for everyone.Embracing the journey can lead to deeper understanding.Unapologetically Whole is a podcast for people who have spent years giving themselves away—to caregiving, culture, or career—and are finally ready to reclaim their voice. Hosted by attorney, author, TEDx speaker, and lifelong caregiver Lola Dada‑Olley, the show explores identity, healing, neurodiversity, cultural stigma, and the quiet work of rebuilding yourself after burnout. Lola draws from her lived experience as an attorney, a mother of two autistic children, the older sister of an autistic, intellectually disabled adult, and the former host of Not Your Mama’s Autism. She also serves as Lead ADA Counsel for a global banking institution and appears with her family in the Vox Media documentary Sensory Overload on Hulu. Each episode blends storytelling, reflection, and honest conversation to help caregivers and other leaders recognize the lane they’re in, redefine success on their own terms, and reimagine what it means to thrive without disappearing. Learn more about Lola’s work and her upcoming memoir at loladadaolley.com, and join the newsletter to stay connected to the movement. Support the show www.loladadaolley.com

    30 min

  5. SEASON 1, EPISODE 1 TRAILER

    Goodbye Not Your Mama's Autism ... Hello Unapologetically Whole

    Send a text Not Your Mama’s Autism had its finale episode in December 2025. Unapologetically Whole is the dawn of a new podcast, guided by the same host, Lola Dada‑Olley, but shaped by a deeper, more expansive mission. After five years of honest conversations about disability, culture, and family, Lola is stepping into a new season, one that honors where she’s been while widening the lens to include every woman who has ever disappeared in service to others. This trailer marks the bridge between two eras: the close of a beloved community built around autism storytelling, and the beginning of a movement centered on identity, healing, and wholeness. Lola brings with her the same lived experience—attorney, author, TEDx speaker, lifelong caregiver, mother of two autistic children, and older sister to an autistic, intellectually disabled adult, but now she’s inviting listeners into a broader conversation about what it means to reclaim yourself after years of giving yourself away. Unapologetically Whole explores the quiet, courageous work of rebuilding your sense of self while still showing up for the people you love. Through storytelling, reflection, and deeply human conversations, Lola offers a space for women navigating caregiving, cultural expectations, career reinvention, and the emotional weight of being everything to everyone. It’s a podcast about choosing yourself without abandoning your responsibilities and learning that devotion does not require disappearance. As this new chapter begins, the heart of Not Your Mama’s Autism lives on, expanded and reimagined. If you’ve ever felt unseen, stretched thin, or unsure where you end and your roles begin, this next season is for you. Welcome to Unapologetically Whole—a home for women ready to reclaim their voice, redefine success, and reimagine what it means to thrive. Support the show www.loladadaolley.com

    2 min

  6. 12/15/2025

    The Power of Self-Awareness and Self-Acceptance: A Talk with Author and Self-Advocate Lisa Hurley

    Send a text Summary This conversation explores the complexities of neurodiversity, particularly autism, within the Caribbean context. Lisa Hurley reflects on her personal experiences growing up in a society that lacks awareness and understanding of neurodivergence. She discusses the cultural perceptions of autism, the challenges faced by individuals who do not fit the stereotypical image of autism, and the need for greater visibility and acceptance. Takeaways Cultural perceptions shape the understanding of autism.There is a lack of awareness about neurodiversity.Expectations of presentation can exclude many individuals.Visibility is crucial for acceptance of neurodiversity.Challenging stereotypes is necessary for broader understanding.Personal experiences highlight systemic issues in society. Sound Bites "I've known from childhood that I was different." "We're not talking about neurodivergence." "People who look like us are not even considered." Where to find Lisa Hurley: The Great Exhale Support the show www.loladadaolley.com

    1 hr

  7. 12/10/2025

    On The Road To Wholeness, A Family Episode

    Send a text In this heartfelt episode, Lola Dada-Olley and Tosan Olley reflect on their journey through autism advocacy, sharing insights from their experiences over the past five years. They discuss the universality of autism, the power of storytelling, and the importance of embracing wholeness while breaking generational cycles. The conversation highlights the intersections of race, disability, and neurodivergence, and sets the stage for their transition to a new podcast identity, 'Unapologetically Whole.' Takeaways The podcast has been a platform for sharing our family's journey with autism.The universality of autism transcends geography and culture.Sharing our story has allowed others to feel seen and understood.The richness of humanity is reflected in the diverse stories shared on the podcast.Embracing wholeness means acknowledging both joy and pain in our lives.Breaking generational cycles is essential for healing and growth.The intersection of race and disability shapes unique experiences.The transition to 'Unapologetically Whole' signifies a new chapter in advocacy.Gratitude for the community that has supported our journey.The evolution of our understanding of success and thriving. Chapters 00:00 Reflecting on a Journey of Autism Advocacy 03:05 The Universality of Autism and Its Impact 06:03 The Power of Sharing Stories 08:56 Embracing Wholeness and Breaking Generational Cycles 11:54 The Intersection of Race, Disability, and Neurodivergence 14:58 Transitioning to Unapologetically Whole 18:00 Gratitude and Looking Forward Support the show www.loladadaolley.com

    35 min
  8. Navigating Transitions in Family Life

    08/27/2025

    Navigating Transitions in Family Life

    Send a text SUMMARY In this episode of Not Your Mama's Autism Podcast, hosts Lola and Tosan Olley discuss the various transitions their family is experiencing, including changes in their children's education, their own career roles, and the impact of policy changes on caregiving. They reflect on the importance of community support, self-care, and the lessons learned from navigating these transitions. The conversation also touches on their shift from audio storytelling to a visual medium, emphasizing the power of sharing their journey to foster understanding and connection. Takeaways Transitions are a recurring theme in family life.Policy changes can significantly impact caregiving responsibilities.Community support is essential during transitions.Self-care is crucial for managing stress and responsibilities.Laughter can be a powerful tool for coping.It's important to give yourself grace during difficult times.Time is finite; prioritize what truly matters.Creative outlets can help reconnect with oneself.Navigating transitions requires flexibility and adaptability.Lessons learned from past experiences can guide future decisions. Support the show www.loladadaolley.com

    38 min
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About

Unapologetically Whole is the podcast for anyone who’s ever felt invisible while holding everyone else together. Hosted by attorney, advocate, and lifelong caregiver Lola Dada-Olley, this show is a raw, honest invitation to reclaim your story and rebuild your sense of self without abandoning your responsibilities or values. Through deeply personal storytelling and candid conversations, Lola explores the layers we carry: as caregivers, professionals, parents, partners, and cycle-breakers navigating cultural stigma, trauma, and the pursuit of wholeness in a world that often asks us to disappear.  Each episode offers a practical, three-part framework for transformation: Recognize the lane you’re in, Redefine success beyond external validation, and Reimagine what it means to truly thrive. You’ll hear real lessons from lived experience—how to hold the tension between vigilance and joy, how to honor incremental progress, and how to shine your light in a world that can feel dark. Whether you’re a caregiver, a leader, or simply someone searching for permission to exist beyond your roles, Unapologetically Whole bridges the gap between personal healing and professional reinvention, creating space for authentic community and honest growth.  This podcast is the companion to Lola’s forthcoming memoir, Unapologetically Whole: A Memoir About Autism, Caregiving, and Owning Your Story, coming June 2026. If these conversations resonate with you, help us extend the reach—subscribe, share with a friend, and leave a rating or review. Your voice helps others find the hope, healing, and wholeness they deserve.

Information

  • Creator
    Lola Dada-Olley
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    80
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 @2026 Unapologetically Whole
  • Show Website
    Unapologetically Whole