Autism Central Podcast

By Autism Central
  • 5.0 (1)
  • Mental Health

Real stories and honest conversations, we bring together autistic people and the people who love, support, and care for autistic people of all ages and backgrounds to explore every aspect of life. Autism Central is the national peer education programme for families and support networks of autistic people in England, the programme is delivered by Anna Freud and commissioned by the NHS. Through education, coaching, and connection, we offer resources, webinars, one-to-one peer support, and community events that centre lived experience and build real understanding www.autismcentral.org.uk

  1. Love needs no words: Autism and fatherhood

    1d ago

    Love needs no words: Autism and fatherhood

    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: hellocatherineasta@gmail.com Website I Instagram I Art  Books: Rediscovered and Still Living

    58 min
  2. Autism and relationship breakdown: The legal basics

    Jun 8

    Autism and relationship breakdown: The legal basics

    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: hellocatherineasta@gmail.com Website Instagram  Books: Rediscovered and Still Living Art

    1h 4m
  3. Dyspraxia and Autism

    May 22

    Dyspraxia and Autism

    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

    51 min
  4. The power of peer support 

    May 8

    The power of peer support 

    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

    52 min
  5. Demystifying adult autism assessments with psychiatrist Dr Alison Lennox

    Apr 24

    Demystifying adult autism assessments with psychiatrist Dr Alison Lennox

    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

    50 min
  6. Hyperfocused on health with Dr Helen Lawal

    Apr 10

    Hyperfocused on health with Dr Helen Lawal

    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

    49 min
  7. When the wheels fall off: Menopause and autism / ADHD

    Mar 27

    When the wheels fall off: Menopause and autism / ADHD

    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

    47 min
  8. When Dad is neurodivergent

    Mar 13

    When Dad is neurodivergent

    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

    50 min
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About

Real stories and honest conversations, we bring together autistic people and the people who love, support, and care for autistic people of all ages and backgrounds to explore every aspect of life. Autism Central is the national peer education programme for families and support networks of autistic people in England, the programme is delivered by Anna Freud and commissioned by the NHS. Through education, coaching, and connection, we offer resources, webinars, one-to-one peer support, and community events that centre lived experience and build real understanding www.autismcentral.org.uk

Information

  • Creator
    By Autism Central
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    40
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © By Autism Central
  • Show Website
    Autism Central Podcast

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