The Unfinished Idea | Autism Spectrum, ADHD, AUDHD, Neurodiverse parent

What’s it really like parenting a child with ADHD and autism? How can parents, teachers, and communities better support neurodivergent children? How do autistic and ADHD individuals experience the world? Each week, we explore these questions with practical strategies, emotional insight, and real stories. I’m Greer — a mum of two boys (and two dogs!) raising a child with special educational needs (SEN) alongside my husband. Our daily life looks different from the norm, but it’s full of love, advocacy, and growth. I started this podcast to create a space for parents of neurodivergent kids, educators, and allies to learn, connect, and build understanding together. You’ll hear parenting tips, advocacy guidance, sensory strategies, and personal reflections that shine a light on both the joys and challenges of neurodivergent parenting. Through heartfelt solo episodes and guest interviews, we’ll talk about EHCP or IEP processes, school support, emotional regulation, and the big feelings that come with raising ND kids. Whether you’re here as a parent of an autistic or ADHD child, a late-diagnosed adult, a teacher seeking insight, or someone wanting to understand the neurodivergent world, this podcast is your space to grow, connect, and know you’re not alone. Welcome to The Unfinished Idea — a podcast all about parenting, autism, ADHD, and life in a neurodivergent family. Here, we open up honest conversations about neurodiversity, raising neurodivergent children, and navigating the everyday realities of SEN parenting.

  1. ADHD in Women, Masking & Late Diagnosis: Dr. Janina Maschke’s Story + Practical Strategies

    3天前

    ADHD in Women, Masking & Late Diagnosis: Dr. Janina Maschke’s Story + Practical Strategies

    What happens when the professional helping others with ADHD realizes… she has it too? After years of supporting ADHDers as a psychologist, Dr. Janina Maschke experienced her own “aha” moment — a late ADHD diagnosis that changed everything. In this powerful and eye-opening episode, Greer sits down with Dr. Janina Maschke — psychologist, ADHD coach, researcher, and author of A Feminist Guide to ADHD. Together, they unpack how ADHD often looks different in women, the role of hormones and masking, and why so many women don’t get diagnosed until adulthood. Blending clinical insight with lived experience, Dr. Maschke shares practical tools for managing overwhelm, setting boundaries, and reframing ADHD as a different way of thinking — not a broken one. In this episode, you’ll learn: How ADHD presents differently in women Why masking and hormones delay diagnosis Real-life strategies for preventing burnout and emotional overload How to set boundaries and respond with intention Why reframing ADHD can transform how you see yourself and others Whether you’re newly diagnosed or supporting someone who is, this episode offers compassion, validation, and practical next steps for thriving with ADHD. LINKS: Join the Unfinished Community WhatsApp. Where you can share your everyday joys, struggles, and differences! Click here to join. Sign up to our newsletter where we continue the conversation along with sharing helpful resources and techniques tried out by parents and professionals in the neurodiverse world. You can know get the episodes on YouTube! Click here to subscribe. Follow the show on all the socials @theunfinishedidea - look for the brain! Instagram Facebook LinkedIn TikTok Website Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    25 分钟
  2. Gut Health, Biomedical Interventions & Autism Parenting: A Real Conversation with Greer McGuinness

    10月30日

    Gut Health, Biomedical Interventions & Autism Parenting: A Real Conversation with Greer McGuinness

    What happens when two Greers sit down to talk about autism, parenting, and the truth about gut health? Between misinformation online and the pressure parents face to “do it all,” this conversation brings clarity, compassion, and science back into focus. n this honest and empowering episode, Greer Jones is joined by Greer McGuinness, a registered dietitian, autism mom, and researcher dedicated to helping families understand the real connection between gut health and autism. Together, they explore what evidence-based biomedical interventions look like in everyday life — and how parents can make meaningful changes without burnout or guilt. In this episode, you’ll learn: What current research says about gut health and autism How to start small with realistic dietary and environmental changes Common nutrition myths and what actually helps Ways to support yourself while parenting through overwhelm Why compassion and community matter as much as science This episode is a breath of fresh air for parents feeling overwhelmed by “all the things.” You don’t need perfection — just progress, understanding, and a supportive community. LINKS: Join the Unfinished Community WhatsApp. Where you can share your everyday joys, struggles, and differences! Click here to join. Sign up to our newsletter where we continue the conversation along with sharing helpful resources and techniques tried out by parents and professionals in the neurodiverse world. You can know get the episodes on YouTube! Click here to subscribe. Follow the show on all the socials @theunfinishedidea - look for the brain! Instagram Facebook LinkedIn TikTok Website Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    28 分钟
  3. Real Talk with Seasoned Autism Moms: Parenting, Advocacy & Pivoting with Brittney & Tash

    10月25日

    Real Talk with Seasoned Autism Moms: Parenting, Advocacy & Pivoting with Brittney & Tash

    What happens when two seasoned autism moms sit down and share everything — the meltdowns, the victories, and the toothbrush hunts that never seem to end? This conversation is raw, real, and filled with laughter — a masterclass in resilience, advocacy, and finding joy in the chaos of parenting neurodivergent kids. In this powerful episode, Greer is joined by Brittney and Tash from the Mom’s Talk Autism podcast — two brilliant, hilarious, and experienced moms who have navigated every stage of the autism parenting journey. Together, they talk honestly about what they’ve learned through years of advocacy, growth, and grace. In this episode, you’ll hear: The difference between early diagnosis years and seasoned parenting How schools, systems, and culture shape advocacy The emotional load of raising neurodivergent children Why flexibility and humour are survival tools How community and shared stories help parents feel less alone Whether you’re just starting out or deep in the parenting trenches, this episode is a reminder that we learn, grow, and adapt best when we do it together. LINKS: Listen to Moms talk Autism Pod Join the Unfinished Community WhatsApp. Where you can share your everyday joys, struggles, and differences! Click here to join. Sign up to our newsletter where we continue the conversation along with sharing helpful resources and techniques tried out by parents and professionals in the neurodiverse world. You can know get the episodes on YouTube! Click here to subscribe. Follow the show on all the socials @theunfinishedidea - look for the brain! Instagram Facebook LinkedIn TikTok Website Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    39 分钟
  4. Through a Sibling’s Eyes: Growing Up with a Brother on the Spectrum

    10月23日

    Through a Sibling’s Eyes: Growing Up with a Brother on the Spectrum

    CHECK OUT THE UNFINISHED RESOURCES- pick up play guide, meltdown guide, and more! What’s it really like to grow up as the sibling of a neurodivergent child? While the world often focuses on parents and diagnoses, siblings live a story that’s rarely told — one of deep love, quiet resilience, and unspoken understanding. In this heartfelt conversation, Greer sits down with Ruby, a young woman whose life has been beautifully shaped by her brother Ewan, who is autistic. From childhood to adulthood, Ruby has learned empathy, adaptability, and the power of advocacy — lessons she now shares online to support other families walking a similar path. In this episode, you’ll hear: What it’s really like growing up with an autistic sibling How Ruby balanced her own needs with her family’s The importance of including and supporting siblings How social media became a space for awareness and connection Why kindness and understanding can change how we view neurodiversity This conversation shines a light on the often-overlooked sibling perspective — reminding us that love, compassion, and inclusion begin at home. LINKSFollow Ruby’s sibling journey Join the Unfinished Community WhatsApp. Where you can share your everyday joys, struggles, and differences! Click here to join. Sign up to our newsletter where we continue the conversation along with sharing helpful resources and techniques tried out by parents and professionals in the neurodiverse world. You can know get the episodes on YouTube! Click here to subscribe. Follow the show on all the socials @theunfinishedidea - look for the brain! Instagram Facebook LinkedIn TikTok Website Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    33 分钟
  5. Making Myrtle Beach Autism-Friendly: Chef Jamie Daskalis on Inclusive Restaurants & Community Change

    10月21日

    Making Myrtle Beach Autism-Friendly: Chef Jamie Daskalis on Inclusive Restaurants & Community Change

    What if dining out with your autistic child didn’t feel stressful — but safe, supported, and even joyful? In Myrtle Beach, that dream is already a reality. Thanks to one mom’s advocacy, this coastal city has become a national model for autism-friendly dining and travel. n this heartfelt episode, Greer talks with Jamie Daskalis — award-winning chef, restaurant owner, autism advocate, and mom to James — about how her son’s diagnosis inspired her to create spaces where every family feels welcome. Together, they unpack how Myrtle Beach became an autism-certified travel destination and what every community can learn from it. In this episode, you’ll hear: Jamie’s journey as a mom navigating autism and early intervention How small changes make restaurants and businesses more autism-friendly The story behind the Champion Autism Network and Myrtle Beach’s inclusion movement Simple, practical ways to build empathy and accessibility in your community Whether you’re a parent, business owner, or advocate, this episode is a reminder that inclusion starts with understanding — and one person’s voice can spark city-wide change. LINKS: Follow Chef Jamie Learn more about Jonny D's Join the Unfinished Community WhatsApp. Where you can share your everyday joys, struggles, and differences! Click here to join. Sign up to our newsletter where we continue the conversation along with sharing helpful resources and techniques tried out by parents and professionals in the neurodiverse world. You can know get the episodes on YouTube! Click here to subscribe. Follow the show on all the socials @theunfinishedidea - look for the brain! Instagram Facebook LinkedIn TikTok Website Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    37 分钟
  6. The Emotional Reality of Raising Neurodivergent Kids: Guilt, Grief & Resilience in Autism Parenting with Leona Smith

    10月19日

    The Emotional Reality of Raising Neurodivergent Kids: Guilt, Grief & Resilience in Autism Parenting with Leona Smith

    What happens when parenting looks completely different from what you imagined? From unexpected autism diagnoses to “everyday grief” and learning to let go of old expectations, raising neurodivergent children is a journey filled with both heartbreak and deep joy. If you’ve ever felt torn between parenting neurodivergent and neurotypical children, this conversation will feel like a warm hug and a deep exhale. In this heartfelt episode, Greer sits down with Leona, a mum raising a non-verbal autistic son with a learning disability and a neurotypical daughter. Together, they unpack the emotional reality of raising neurodivergent kids—the guilt, the grief, the resilience, and the surprising moments of joy that surface along the way. Leona shares her story with raw honesty, offering encouragement and practical wisdom for parents in the early stages of diagnosis and beyond. This episode is for every parent navigating the complex emotions that come with autism parenting and neurodivergent family life. In This Episode, We Talk About: Navigating two very different parenting experiences (neurodivergent + neurotypical siblings) The emotional waves of grief, guilt, and letting go of expectations Advocating in public spaces during meltdowns Building resilience over time and finding your community The power of small moments of solidarity between parents Topics Discussed: Autism parenting and diagnosis journeys Non-verbal autism and learning disabilities “Everyday grief” for parents of neurodivergent children Parenting neurodivergent and neurotypical siblings Emotional resilience for SEN parents Public meltdowns and advocacy phrases Potty training and developmental differences Finding community and letting go of “the norm” Key Takeaways: Grief doesn’t end at diagnosis — it appears in small, everyday moments. Acknowledging it without letting it consume you is key. Your child’s experience isn’t always your grief. They can thrive on their own terms. Parenting neurodivergent children means redefining family experiences, and that’s okay. Advocating in public gets easier with time. Pre-prepared phrases help you respond calmly in stressful moments. You’re not alone. A kind nod, shared glance, or moment of solidarity between parents can make a world of difference. LINKS: Follow Leona Join the Unfinished Community WhatsApp. Where you can share your everyday joys, struggles, and differences! Click here to join.Sign up to our newsletter where we continue the conversation along with sharing helpful resources and techniques tried out by parents and professionals in the neurodiverse world. You can know get the episodes on YouTube! Click here to subscribe. Follow the show on all the socials @theunfinishedidea - look for the brain! Instagram Facebook LinkedIn TikTok Website Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    29 分钟
  7. One Year of The Unfinished Idea: Reflections, Lessons & What I Want the World to Know

    10月16日

    One Year of The Unfinished Idea: Reflections, Lessons & What I Want the World to Know

    What a year it’s been! From late-night recordings and community building to tears, laughter, and so much learning — The Unfinished Idea just turned ONE!  This episode is a celebration — of growth, courage, connection, and the beautiful chaos that comes with being a neurodivergent family. Whether you’ve been here since episode one or are just joining, this is a moment to pause, reflect, and remember why this journey matters. Host Greer Jones is celebrating the first anniversary of The Unfinished Idea — a podcast that grew from a simple desire to find connection in the neurodiverse world into a thriving community of understanding and hope. In this milestone episode, Greer is joined by her husband Chris, who shares what he’s learned from being part of the journey behind the scenes. Together, they look back at the lessons, surprises, and moments that shaped the past year — and dream about what’s to come. In this episode: Greer reflects on the courage it takes to start something new and keep showing up. Chris shares what he’s learned about inclusion, patience, and thriving as a neurodivergent family. Greer reveals what she wants the world to know about neurodivergent people — and it’s something you won’t forget. Plus, you’ll hear the voices of listeners and guests sharing their own answers to that same question. TAKEWAYS “No” isn’t the worst thing that can happen — sometimes, the biggest growth comes from just asking. Neurodivergent families can and do thrive — sometimes it just takes a few tweaks, consistency, and community. The world tells us we’re a burden, but in truth, neurodivergent people make life easier — through innovation, love, and resilience. Love and connection don’t always need words; they’re often found in small gestures and moments of understanding. Every episode, every story, every shared experience reminds us: you’re not alone in this journey. Join the Unfinished Community WhatsApp. Where you can share your everyday joys, struggles, and differences! Click here to join.Sign up to our newsletter where we continue the conversation along with sharing helpful resources and techniques tried out by parents and professionals in the neurodiverse world. You can know get the episodes on YouTube! Click here to subscribe. Follow the show on all the socials @theunfinishedidea - look for the brain! Instagram Facebook LinkedIn TikTok Website Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    1 小时 36 分钟
  8. Beyond the Classroom: Rethinking Education for Neurodiverse Kids with Kim

    10月9日

    Beyond the Classroom: Rethinking Education for Neurodiverse Kids with Kim

    Is mainstream school the only path—or just the default? For many neurodiverse children, traditional classrooms create more harm than growth. Kim shows us what education can look like when we step outside the box. Meet Kim, an educator and advocate who supports families choosing alternative education outside the mainstream system. As a parent herself, Kim has navigated the realities of EHCPs, home education, and creating learning environments where her neurodiverse child thrives. She offers practical wisdom, encouragement, and a fresh perspective on what education can (and should) be. TOPICS DISCUSSEDWhy school isn’t right for every childAlternative learning options in the UKThe role of EHCPs in accessing supportNeurodiverse learners and engagementLife skills as education (finance, citizenship, etc.)Redefining success outside mainstream systemsSupporting parents navigating decisionsThe power of listening and non-judgment TAKEAWAYS FROM THIS EPISODEEducation isn’t “one size fits all”—alternative paths are valid.Mental health and happiness must come before academics.Gaming, hobbies, and nontraditional activities can be true learning.Parents know their children best—trust your instincts.Support from family and friends looks like listening, not judging.Changing the environment—not the child—opens the door to thriving. Join the Unfinished Community WhatsApp. Where you can share your everyday joys, struggles, and differences! Click here to join.Sign up to our newsletter where we continue the conversation along with sharing helpful resources and techniques tried out by parents and professionals in the neurodiverse world. You can know get the episodes on YouTube! Click here to subscribe. Follow the show on all the socials @theunfinishedidea - look for the brain! Instagram Facebook LinkedIn TikTok Website Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    35 分钟
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关于

What’s it really like parenting a child with ADHD and autism? How can parents, teachers, and communities better support neurodivergent children? How do autistic and ADHD individuals experience the world? Each week, we explore these questions with practical strategies, emotional insight, and real stories. I’m Greer — a mum of two boys (and two dogs!) raising a child with special educational needs (SEN) alongside my husband. Our daily life looks different from the norm, but it’s full of love, advocacy, and growth. I started this podcast to create a space for parents of neurodivergent kids, educators, and allies to learn, connect, and build understanding together. You’ll hear parenting tips, advocacy guidance, sensory strategies, and personal reflections that shine a light on both the joys and challenges of neurodivergent parenting. Through heartfelt solo episodes and guest interviews, we’ll talk about EHCP or IEP processes, school support, emotional regulation, and the big feelings that come with raising ND kids. Whether you’re here as a parent of an autistic or ADHD child, a late-diagnosed adult, a teacher seeking insight, or someone wanting to understand the neurodivergent world, this podcast is your space to grow, connect, and know you’re not alone. Welcome to The Unfinished Idea — a podcast all about parenting, autism, ADHD, and life in a neurodivergent family. Here, we open up honest conversations about neurodiversity, raising neurodivergent children, and navigating the everyday realities of SEN parenting.

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