Episodes

  • In response to several requests from listeners, this episode is all about the complexities of giving medication to our neurodivergent kids.

    Mark speaks to the tremendous Danielle Jata-Hall, who is an author, award-winning blogger and a disability campaigner. She has three children (13, 11 and 8 - all diagnosed Autistic with a PDA profile, as well as a blend of ADHD, Anxiety and potential bipolar disorder).

    Mark and Danielle discuss the medication journeys they've been on with their own kids, from overcoming their initial misgivings and dealing with the judgement of others, to the administrative nightmare of trying to get medication prescribed by medical professionals.

    They compare different prescription pathways and share their experiences of the difficult process of titration - not to mention the rigamarole of actually getting their kids to take the medication we've fought so hard to get for them.

    LINKS TO STUFF WE MENTION IN THIS EPISODE:

    "The Journey Into S.E.N.D Fatherhood" book - https://amzn.eu/d/0qwN0il

    Danielle Jata-Hall blog - https://pdaparenting.com/

    Newbold Hope - https://www.newboldhope.com/

    FII (Fabricated or Induced Illness) - https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/conditions/fabricated-or-induced-illness/overview/

    "The Parent's Guide to ADHD Medicines" book - https://amzn.eu/d/i2e73JM

    Shared Care - https://www.england.nhs.uk/medicines-2/regional-medicines-optimisation-committees-advice/shared-care-protocols/

    "I'm Not Upside Down, I'm Downside Up" book - https://amzn.eu/d/avsMxy2

    "Black Rainbow" book - https://amzn.eu/d/he1Nd8K

    "Steph's Two Girls" blog with tips on getting your child to take medication - https://www.stephstwogirls.co.uk/2020/01/top-tips-when-your-child-wont-take.html

    "A boy less ordinary" blog - https://aboylessordinary.com/

    CONTACT US

    If you have any feedback about the show, ideas for topics or suggestions for neurodiversity champions you'd like us to give a shout out to, you can email: [email protected] US

    Instagram: www.instagram.com/neuroshambles

    TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@neuroshamblespod

    Facebook: www.facebook.com/Neuroshambles

    Threads: www.threads.net/@neuroshamblesCREDITS

    The Neuroshambles theme tune was created by Skilsel on Pixabay: https://pixabay.com/

  • What was it like to raise an autistic child 30 years ago? Mark has a fascinating chat with Stephanie - his wonderful neighbour from over the road, who has a 31 year old son (diagnosed autistic with moderate learning difficulties, OCD and anxiety).

    They discuss how parents of autistic children were able to navigate the process of understanding how best to raise their kids, without access to the internet, social media or the breadth of information we have available now?

    This is an enlightening and surprisingly uplifting episode, which shines a light on just how far society has come in a relatively short space of time, when it comes to understanding, supporting and championing our neurodivergent kids.

    LINKS TO STUFF WE MENTION IN THIS EPISODE:

    Disneyland, Paris - https://www.disneylandparis.com/en-gb/

    Echolalia - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Echolalia

    The Very Hungry Caterpillar, Eric Carle - https://amzn.eu/d/boDv6wN

    Rain Man - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rain_Man

    The Essential Different, Simon Baron Cohen - https://amzn.eu/d/3Y5xgWv

    Gentle Parenting - https://www.psychologytoday.com/gb/blog/on-babies/202405/gentle-parenting-doesnt-mean-permissive-parenting

    Leonardo Da Vinci - https://www.independent.co.uk/news/health/leonardo-da-vinci-adhd-health-mona-lisa-a8927641.html

    Social Stories - https://www.autism.org.uk/advice-and-guidance/topics/communication/communication-tools/social-stories-and-comic-strip-coversations

    Supported Employment - https://www.base-uk.org/about/members/brighton-hove-city-council

    Fare Share - https://fareshare.org.uk/

    Oxfam - https://jobs.oxfam.org.uk/jobs/home/

    Leonardslee Gardens - www.leonardsleegardens.co.uk/

    CONTACT US

    If you have any feedback about the show, ideas for topics or suggestions for neurodiversity champions you'd like us to give a shout out to, you can email: [email protected] US

    Instagram: www.instagram.com/neuroshambles

    TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@neuroshamblespod

    Facebook: www.facebook.com/Neuroshambles

    Threads: www.threads.net/@neuroshamblesCREDITS

    The Neuroshambles theme tune was created by Skilsel on Pixabay: https://pixabay.com/

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  • Mark welcomes back former guest "Belle", as they discuss the perils of transport. "Belle" has two neurodivergent children - a 9-year old girl (diagnosed autistic with sensory processing disorder and a PDA profile), and a 7-year old boy (diagnosed autistic with Tourette Syndrome and suspected ADHD). Alongside Mark's three neurodivergent kids (with a giddy blend of autism, ADHD, anxiety and PDA), they have a trove of transport-related horror stories to tell.

    As well as discussing tales of travelling on buses, planes, trains, boats and cars, there are also more Neurodiversity Champions, Tiny Epic Wins and What The Flip moments, as well a particularly insightful proposal to create a demand-avoidant sat nav.

    LINKS TO STUFF WE MENTION IN THIS EPISODE:

    Gatwick Airport Special Assistance - https://www.gatwickairport.com/passenger-guides/special-assistance.html

    Ferry cabins (DFDS) - https://www.dfds.com/en-gb/passenger-ferries/onboard/newhaven-dieppe/sleeping

    Jen Marillat, Dramatherapist - https://jenmarillat.com/

    Health and Care Professions Council - https://www.hcpc-uk.org/

    The British Association of Dramatherapists - https://www.badth.org.uk/

    EMDR Therapy - https://www.bacp.co.uk/about-therapy/types-of-therapy/eye-movement-desensitisation-and-reprocessing-emdr

    Riding For the Disabled Association (RDA) - https://rda.org.uk/

    Aspens, East Sussex - https://www.aspens.org.uk/

    CONTACT US

    If you have any feedback about the show, ideas for topics or suggestions for neurodiversity champions you'd like us to give a shout out to, you can email: [email protected] US

    Instagram: www.instagram.com/neuroshambles

    TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@neuroshamblespod

    Facebook: www.facebook.com/Neuroshambles

    Threads: www.threads.net/@neuroshamblesCREDITS

    The Neuroshambles theme tune was created by Skilsel on Pixabay: https://pixabay.com/

  • Mark chats to the magnificent Lisa Lloyd about the judgement they regularly receive from outsiders as parents of neurodivergent kids. Lisa has two children - an 11-year old boy (diagnosed autistic) and a 7-year old girl (diagnosed autistic, with a PDA profile) and, as a prominent content creator on social media (@asd_with_a_g_and_t), she is no stranger to being judged by people who don't have a neurodivergent child, much less a clue about how to raise one.

    Mark and Lisa swap tales about comments they receive from people judging their children ("He's not autistic, he's just naughty"), judging their parenting ("He wouldn't act like that if he was my son") and judging the entire concept of neurodivergency ("It's just a label"). They discuss the misconceptions that cause people to act this way, as well as the appropriate responses you can give them in return.

    This is a great one to listen to if you've ever been told that "He doesn't look autistic" or "Everyone's a bit on the spectrum".

    LINKS TO STUFF WE MENTION IN THIS EPISODE:

    Raising the Sen-Betweeners, Lisa Lloyd - https://amzn.eu/d/4hm6Sb0

    SEND Reform England - https://www.sendreformengland.com/

    Lisa Lloyd Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/asd_with_a_g_and_t/

    Lisa Lloyd TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@asd.with.a.g.and.t

    Lisa Lloyd Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/ASDwithGandT

    CONTACT US

    If you have any feedback about the show, ideas for topics or suggestions for neurodiversity champions you'd like us to give a shout out to, you can email: [email protected] US

    Instagram: www.instagram.com/neuroshambles

    TikTok:https: www.tiktok.com/@neuroshamblespod

    Facebook: www.facebook.com/Neuroshambles

    Threads: www.threads.net/@neuroshamblesCREDITS

    The Neuroshambles theme tune was created by Skilsel on Pixabay: https://pixabay.com/

  • Mark discusses the innate human desire to "keep up with the Joneses" with returning guest Samuel Wilson, who is an author and parent of two children: an 8-year old daughter (on the autism pathway, with Cerebral Palsy, Cerebral Visual Impairment and Sensory Processing Disorder) and a 5-year old son (suspected neurotypical).

    They discuss how unhelpful that can be in the early days of your diagnosis journey and how liberating it is when you finally let go of the expectations of being "normal" and embrace your family in all of their neuroshambolic glory.

    LINKS TO STUFF WE MENTION IN THIS EPISODE:

    Simpsons clip - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=784seqWxsMk&t=469s

    Dad La Soul - https://www.dadlasoul.com/

    BBC Woman’s Hour - https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/m0022ss7

    India Croc replacement saga - https://www.instagram.com/p/C9hLMewpBH6/

    "Lend a Hand", Samuel Wilson's book - www.littlestepspublishing.co.uk/books/lend-a-hand

    CONTACT US

    If you have any feedback about the show, ideas for topics or suggestions for neurodiversity champions you'd like us to give a shout out to, you can email: [email protected] US

    Instagram: www.instagram.com/neuroshambles

    Facebook: www.facebook.com/Neuroshambles

    Threads: www.threads.net/@neuroshamblesCREDITS

    The Neuroshambles theme tune was created by Skilsel on Pixabay: https://pixabay.com/

  • A potentially controversial episode, this one, where Mark chats to an old friend, Kate Ebbutt (Mum to 11 year-old neurotypical and 9-year old diagnosed ADHD/suspected autistic humans). They talk candidly about something they've both found themselves worrying about in their darker moments - am I raising an arsehole? They dissect the behaviours that qualify someone as being "an arsehole" and discuss to what extent they can be fairly applied to our neurodivergent kids.

    They also discuss to what extent the gentle parenting approach could be contributing to this behaviour, as well as recounting experiences of times where they've had to explain their parenting choices to neurotypicals who struggle to understand their approach.

    Please note, if you are offended by the word arsehole, it is sprinkled liberally throughout the episode, so this one might not be for you.

    LINKS TO STUFF WE MENTION IN THIS EPISODE:

    "The Explosive Child" book - https://drrossgreene.com/the-explosive-child.htm

    Gentle Parenting - https://www.parents.com/parenting/better-parenting/style/what-is-gentle-parenting/

    National Trust - https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/

    RAM (Random Access Memory) - https://www.ign.com/articles/what-is-ram

    Sheffield Queer Parents - https://sites.google.com/view/sheffield-queer-parents

    Angling 4 Education - https://www.angling4education.com/

    CONTACT US

    If you have any feedback about the show, ideas for topics or suggestions for neurodiversity champions you'd like us to give a shout out to, you can email: [email protected] US

    Instagram: www.instagram.com/neuroshambles

    Facebook: www.facebook.com/Neuroshambles

    Threads: www.threads.net/@neuroshamblesCREDITS

    The Neuroshambles theme tune was created by Skilsel on Pixabay: https://pixabay.com/

  • Mark chats to the inspirational Kieran Rose. As well as being autistic/ADHD himself, Kieran has three autistic/ADHD children (11, 14 and 15) as well as an autistic wife.

    Kieran is an author, academic, trainer, consultant and all round font of knowledge on autism, so this episode contains some fascinating insights into the different communication styles between neurodivergents and neurotypicals when having a conversation.

    As well as topics such as situational mutism, hyperverbalism and monotropism, Mark and Kieran swap tales about the fact they're never able to finish a conversation without being interrupted and discuss the perils of group conversation and their very different takes on the ridiculous neurotypical habit of engaging in small talk.

    LINKS TO STUFF WE MENTION IN THIS EPISODE:

    Neurodive Podcast - https://soundcloud.com/neurodivepod/kieranrose

    Kieran's website - https://theautisticadvocate.com/

    Maori word for autism - https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/blogs-news-from-elsewhere-40493398

    KIERAN'S RECOMMENDATIONS FOR FURTHER READING:

    A short (and very inexhaustive) list of Autistic advocates and allies no longer with us, who have made a phenomenally constructive difference to the narratives around Autistic and Neurodivergent people, but who never get the recognition of lauded non-Autistic people: Jim SinclairDon't mourn for us - Jim Sinclair wrote one of the pivotal texts in the reframing of Autistic experience (opens as a PDF):https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&source=web&rct=j&opi=89978449&url=https://philosophy.ucsc.edu/SinclairDontMournForUs.pdf&ved=2ahUKEwik86zq-smIAxWCWUEAHQ2NH5UQFnoECCQQAQ&usg=AOvVaw3WfDEINrbr2olYTgiO6ZKlA book about Jim:https://amzn.eu/d/3qalj4l Donna WilliamsConceptualised a model of advocacy based on an inside-out approach - that observation based on your own or a normative experience can only take you so far.https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Donna_WilliamsShe produced a massive number of books:https://uk.jkp.com/collections/author-donna-williams-pid-199891 Mel Baggs:https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mel_BaggsAn old (quality is indicative of its age, so please bear with it) video on two parts that off a deep challenge to normative assumptions around communication and experience:https://youtu.be/JnylM1hI2jc?si=IaPhwkiYn1vRmmlp Dinah Murrayhttps://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dinah_MurrayCo-creator of the theory of monotropism:https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/1362361305051398A basic introduction:https://youtu.be/qUFDAevkd3E?si=SMiSDEoiNcDtV2eg Steve Silbermanhttps://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Steve_SilbermanThe author of Neurotribes, a game changing book that brought a model of different, not less into the mainstream:https://amzn.eu/d/clw0AD8

    CONTACT US

    If you have any feedback about the show, ideas for topics or suggestions for neurodiversity champions you'd like us to give a shout out to, you can email: [email protected] US

    Instagram: www.instagram.com/neuroshambles

    Facebook: www.facebook.com/Neuroshambles

    Threads: www.threads.net/@neuroshamblesCREDITS

    The Neuroshambles theme tune was created by Skilsel on Pixabay: https://pixabay.com/

  • Kicking off season 2 of Neuroshambles, Mark chats to the wonderful Dee McMahon who also has three neurodivergent children: a 16-year old boy, (diagnosed Autistic/ADHD with anxiety disorder) a 13-year old girl (diagnosed ADHD with Dyslexia/Dyscalculia) and a 9-year old boy (diagnosed Autistic with ARFID).

    Mark and Dee take a deep dive into the soul crushing nightmare of trying to feed their neurodifferent kids something remotely resembling a balanced diet. From the trauma of putting together meal plans and shopping lists, to the sense of nervous trepidation when trying to introduce their kids to new foods and the wounded pride they experience when food they've slaved away at is dismissed without even being tried.

    They also take an in-depth look at the more serious side of food issues, when they discuss Dee's personal account of her boy's recent diagnosis of ARFID (Avoidant Restrictive Food Intake Disorder).

    LINKS TO STUFF WE MENTION IN THIS EPISODE:

    ARFID - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Avoidant/restrictive_food_intake_disorder

    ARFID Community Facebook Group - www.facebook.com/groups/arfid/

    mASCot website: https://www.asc-mascot.com/

    mASCot Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/221337174595596/

    To make a donation to mASCot, so they can continue their amazing work: https://www.givey.com/mascot

    Evelina Clinic, London - www.evelinalondon.nhs.uk

    Sainsbury's pasta stars - https://www.sainsburys.co.uk/gol-ui/product/sainsburys-stars-500g?

    Spruce tips - www.foragerchef.com/spruce-tips/

    CONTACT US

    If you have any feedback about the show, ideas for topics or suggestions for neurodiversity champions you'd like us to give a shout out to, you can email: [email protected] US

    Instagram: www.instagram.com/neuroshambles

    Facebook: www.facebook.com/Neuroshambles

    Threads: www.threads.net/@neuroshamblesCREDITS

    The Neuroshambles theme tune was created by Skilsel on Pixabay: https://pixabay.com/

  • In the final episode of this season, Mark chats with Claire Quigley Ward, who is an ADHD Coach and host of the All Aboard ADHD podcast. As well as being diagnosed ADHD herself, Claire has two neurodivergent children - a 13-year old boy (diagnosed ADHD) and an 8-year old girl (suspected ADHD with PDA traits). They discuss the absolute nightmare of trying to take a "normal" photo of our kids - from the challenges of getting them to stay still and not be distracted, to their inability to pose for the camera and the inevitable dread of seeing how they stand out for all the wrong reasons in the annual school photo.

    LINKS TO STUFF WE MENTION IN THIS EPISODE:

    All Aboard ADHD podcast - https://www.allaboardadhd.com/podcast

    All Aboard ADHD coaching - https://www.allaboardadhd.com/coaching

    Apple Live Photo feature - https://support.apple.com/en-gb/104966

    Google Best Take feature - https://blog.google/products/photos/how-google-photos-best-take-works/

    SenLife App - https://mysenlife.com/

    Kate Peers - https://www.independent.co.uk/voices/adhd-children-diagnosis-special-needs-school-funding-a9163761.html

    CONTACT US

    If you have any feedback about the show, ideas for topics or suggestions for neurodiversity champions you'd like us to give a shout out to, you can email: [email protected] US

    Instagram: www.instagram.com/neuroshambles

    Facebook: www.facebook.com/Neuroshambles

    Threads: www.threads.net/@neuroshamblesCREDITS

    The Neuroshambles theme tune was created by Skilsel on Pixabay: https://pixabay.com/

  • Mark speaks to the wonderful Jess Cain - a prolific advocate for neurodivergent families and the driving force of Send Family Instincts. She is an autistic/ADHD/PDA lone parent of five children: a 15-year old boy (self-diagnosed autistic/PDA), another 15-year old boy (fostered, with SEMH needs), a 12-year old girl (self-diagnosed autistic) and twin 9-year old boys (one diagnosed autistic/ADHD/PDA and one allegedly neurotypical). In short, there is no-one better to explore this week's topic with, which is how on earth parents of neurodivergent kids juggle the competing needs of siblings.Mark and Jess share anecdotes about the difficulties they face when trying to balance the wildly different needs of all of their children, whilst somehow trying to remain positive and upbeat. From avoiding conflict, the importance of discussing everyone's needs openly, and learning how to prioritise their own needs in the midst of the mayhem.

    LINKS TO STUFF WE MENTION IN THIS EPISODE:

    Send Family Instincts Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/sendfamilyinstincts/

    Send Family Instincts Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/SendFamilyInstincts/

    Send Family Instincts website - https://sendfamilymagic.mykajabi.com/

    Eliza Fricker - https://www.instagram.com/elizafricker_missingthemark/

    Charlie Gray (My Neurodivergent Adventure) - https://myneurodivergentadventure.co.uk/

    Laura Kerbey (P-AST) - https://p-ast.co.uk/

    Brighton Fringe (Neurodiverse Performer Award) - https://www.brightonfringe.org/brighton-fringe-awards-ceremony/

    Sara Jane Harvey (Agony Autie) - https://www.instagram.com/agonyautie/CONTACT US

    If you have any feedback about the show, ideas for topics or suggestions for neurodiversity champions you'd like us to give a shout out to, you can email: [email protected] US

    Instagram: www.instagram.com/neuroshambles

    Facebook: www.facebook.com/Neuroshambles

    Threads: www.threads.net/@neuroshamblesCREDITS

    The Neuroshambles theme tune was created by Skilsel on Pixabay: https://pixabay.com/

  • Mark speaks to the magnificent Lisa Galley, who is an autism consultant and mother of three grown-up neurodivergent children - one 29-year old boy (diagnosed Autistic with a PDA profile), a 25-year old girl (suspected autistic) and a 20-year old boy (diagnosed autistic).In this fun, candid and thought-provoking episode, they discuss the challenges of helping our neurodivergent kids acquire the life skills they need to be able to live independently. As they cover the diverse range of topics under the umbrella of life skills, Lisa offers some valuable (and occasionally comforting) insights into how her kids have acquired skills, such as getting a job, navigating self care, managing money, learning to drive and, ultimately living away from home.LINKS TO STUFF WE MENTION IN THIS EPISODE:

    Lisa Galley Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/school_run_mum_autism/

    Roblox "Find The Markers" - https://www.roblox.com/games/7896264844/Find-The-Markers-237

    Metro Bank - https://www.metrobankonline.co.uk/about-us/kids-zone/

    Toren Wolf on Learning to Drive - https://www.instagram.com/reel/C6PndheP02Z/

    Danielle Jata-Hall (PDA Parenting) - https://www.instagram.com/pdaparenting/

    Sara Jane Harvey (Agony Autie) - https://www.instagram.com/agonyautie/

    Lisa Galley's Website: https://www.lisagalley.com/CONTACT US

    If you have any feedback about the show, ideas for topics or suggestions for neurodiversity champions you'd like us to give a shout out to, you can email: [email protected] US

    Instagram: www.instagram.com/neuroshambles

    Facebook: www.facebook.com/Neuroshambles

    Threads: www.threads.net/@neuroshamblesCREDITS

    The Neuroshambles theme tune was created by Skilsel on Pixabay: https://pixabay.com/

  • Mark chats with the inspirational Dan Clark, of MindJam. Dan is dad to two neurodifferent kids - one 17-year old girl (diagnosed Autistic) and a 14-year old boy (diagnosed autistic/ADHD with a PDA profile). They discuss the minefield that is playing family games with neurodivergent kids, from their desperate search to find a board game that doesn't end in full scale meltdowns and the strategies they employ to keep the peace.

    They also discuss the hugely beneficial role that both video games and Dungeons & Dragons can play in teaching our kids some of the skills they need to develop, in order to navigate a world teeming with neurotypicals.

    LINKS TO STUFF WE MENTION IN THIS EPISODE:

    MindJam - https://mindjam.org.uk/

    Monopoly - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Monopoly_(game)

    Fast Show Competitive Dad - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h2x_DI7tzNQ

    Mario Kart - https://store.nintendo.co.uk/en/mario-kart

    Beat the Parents - https://amzn.eu/d/3xTCOg8

    Cranium - https://amzn.eu/d/cVedUTu

    Scrabble - https://amzn.eu/d/f4ngyJW

    Dungeon Mayhem - https://amzn.eu/d/3Z0NFr8

    Throw Throw Burrito - https://amzn.eu/d/3Z0NFr8

    Ocean Bingo - https://www.laurenceking.com/products/ocean-bingo

    Exploding Kittens - https://amzn.eu/d/933z2FH

    Unstable Unicorns - https://amzn.eu/d/cDnUP80

    Risk - https://amzn.eu/d/dc7h30w

    The Dice Saloon, Brighton - https://www.dicesaloon.com/

    Chase The Ace - https://www.classicgamesandpuzzles.com/Chase-the-Ace.html

    Zelda: Breath of the Wild - https://www.ign.com/games/the-legend-of-zelda-breath-of-the-wild

    Boy beats Tetris - https://www.bbc.co.uk/newsround/67902380

    Fortnite - https://www.ign.com/games/fortnite

    Candy Crush - https://www.ign.com/games/candy-crush-saga

    Dungeons & Dragons - https://dnd.wizards.com/

    MindJam Adventure Guild - https://mindjam.org.uk/services/adventure-guild/

    BAFTA Young Game Designers - https://ygd.bafta.org/

    It Takes Two - https://www.ea.com/en-gb/games/it-takes-two/about

    Brighton Festival Children's Parade - https://samesky.co.uk/events/childrens-parade-3/

    Jump Inc Trampoline Park - https://www.jump-inc.uk/locations/lincoln/

    Kellie Bright EHCP Film (BBC One Show) - https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m001z8w5

    CONTACT US

    If you have any feedback about the show, ideas for topics or suggestions for neurodiversity champions you'd like us to give a shout out to, you can email: [email protected]

    FOLLOW US

    Instagram: www.instagram.com/neuroshambles

    Facebook: www.facebook.com/Neuroshambles

    Threads: www.threads.net/@neuroshambles

    CREDITS

    The Neuroshambles theme tune was created by Skilsel on Pixabay: https://pixabay.com/

  • Mark speaks to Lauren, neurodivergent mother of three boys (One 11-year old diagnosed Autistic/ADHD with a PDA profile), a 9-year old (suspected autistic/ADHD) and a 5-month old (too soon to tell). They delve into the topic of noise sensitivity - from extreme reactions to loud noises and meltdowns when confronted with contrasting noises, to the fascinating topic of misophonia. They swap tales of hand dryers, bonfire night, cat scarers and an unexpected cavalcade of motorcycling Santas.

    This episode is best listened to with in a quiet place, with noise cancelling headphones!

    LINKS TO STUFF WE MENTION IN THIS EPISODE:

    Ear defenders - https://amzn.eu/d/fIIDess

    Misophonia - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Misophonia

    Cat scarer - https://amzn.eu/d/0U0SYMw

    Santas on a bike - https://www.facebook.com/groups/santasonabike/

    Loop earplugs - https://amzn.eu/d/iNWzyws

    Lauren's noise cancelling headphones - https://groceries.asda.com/product/on-ear-headphones/asda-tech-bluetooth-noise-cancelling-headphones-black/1000370064193

    Jay's noise cancelling headphones - https://amzn.eu/d/8hs4ToC

    White noise - https://open.spotify.com/album/7KbmHEKwEhKyeZT9xuYVco?si=L5-cYE1HSIiYsaqWs83F-A

    Brown noise - https://open.spotify.com/album/0onzJRO1vDBXmXqYy60qsR?si=xgwQCc0OSC-QfID0YOlycw

    Pink noise - https://open.spotify.com/album/5w3fCjBpzyGA6tW9mSfQmr?si=bqH-u1ySQzSYkHVPNjXG1w

    UK Misophonia Support Group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/ShutUpWorld/?mibextid=K35XfP

    The Assembly - https://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episodes/m001xyj5/the-assembly

    Bloke Barbers, Allestree, Derbyshire (Sara) - https://www.blokebarber.co.uk/#our-prices

    Comfa Clothing Fidget-T - https://www.comfa.co.uk/product/fidget-t/

    CONTACT US

    If you have any feedback about the show, ideas for topics or suggestions for neurodiversity champions you'd like us to give a shout out to, you can email: [email protected]

    FOLLOW US

    Instagram: www.instagram.com/neuroshambles

    Facebook: www.facebook.com/Neuroshambles

    Reddit: www.reddit.com/r/Neuroshambles

    Threads: www.threads.net/@neuroshambles

    CREDITS

    The Neuroshambles theme tune was created by Skilsel on Pixabay: https://pixabay.com/

  • Mark welcomes back guest Liam Mullone, parent of twin 13-year old boys (one diagnosed autistic and one suspected autistic/ADHD), as well as an 8-year old girl (suspected neurotypical).

    In this episode, they discuss the topic of mealtimes in their respective households - from the faff of getting them all to the dinner table in the first place, to the unmitigated disaster of their attempts to encourage their kids to sit down, use cutlery and exercise some form of table manners.

    LINKS TO STUFF WE MENTION IN THIS EPISODE:

    Torbay General Hospital paediatric ward - https://www.torbayandsouthdevon.nhs.uk/services/child-health/

    McDonalds - https://www.mcdonalds.com/gb/en-gb.html

    Wetherspoons - https://www.jdwetherspoon.com/

    CONTACT US

    If you have any feedback about the show, ideas for topics or suggestions for neurodiversity champions you'd like us to give a shout out to, you can email: [email protected]

    FOLLOW US

    Instagram: www.instagram.com/neuroshambles

    Facebook: www.facebook.com/Neuroshambles

    Reddit: www.reddit.com/r/Neuroshambles

    Threads: www.threads.net/@neuroshambles

    CREDITS

    The Neuroshambles theme tune was created by Skilsel on Pixabay: https://pixabay.com/

  • This episode explores how we navigate the maelstrom of emotions in families with a mix of different neurotypes. Mark speaks to Grace Lockrobin, philosopher and fellow parent of neurodivergent boys (one 8-year old, diagnosed autistic, and a 5-year old with suspected ADHD), as they look at how members of their own households handle the contrasting ways that each of them understands, expresses and responds to emotions - both in themselves and in others.

    Mark and Grace also discuss how they deal with their own emotions as parents - from having to keep a firm lid on anger, to the often taboo subject of acknowledging the sadness in their own lives.

    LINKS TO STUFF WE MENTION IN THIS EPISODE:

    The Apprentice - https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b0071b63

    Emotion cards - https://amzn.eu/d/1uT2Pru

    Alexithymia - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alexithymia

    Aquila Magazine - https://www.aquila.co.uk/

    "The Explosive Child" book - https://drrossgreene.com/the-explosive-child.htm

    Beavers - https://www.scouts.org.uk/beavers/

    Villa Real School - https://www.villarealschool.co.uk/

    "All The Ways to Be Smart" book - https://amzn.eu/d/4Ssd6qF

    BBC Sport Article on Greg Halford - https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/68617366

    Nick Ransom, Journalist - https://www.nickransom.co.uk/

    Sapere - https://www.sapere.org.uk/

    CONTACT US

    If you have any feedback about the show, ideas for topics or suggestions for neurodiversity champions you'd like us to give a shout out to, you can email: [email protected]

    FOLLOW US

    Instagram: www.instagram.com/neuroshambles

    Facebook: www.facebook.com/Neuroshambles

    Reddit: www.reddit.com/r/Neuroshambles

    Threads: www.threads.net/@neuroshambles

    CREDITS

    The Neuroshambles theme tune was created by Skilsel on Pixabay: https://pixabay.com/

  • This episode is all about the relentless faff involved in trying to get our neurodivergent kids out of the house.

    Mark talks to comedian Hatty Ashdown, who is a parent of two children (one diagnosed autistic with suspected ADHD and one suspected neurotypical). They compare war stories from their daily attempts to wrangle their kids out of the house, navigating distractions, dysregulation, refusal and all round chaos along the way.

    LINKS TO STUFF WE MENTION IN THIS EPISODE:

    Gorilla Gym - https://amzn.eu/d/22yMHaK

    Purple Parenting - https://www.purpleparenting.co.uk/about/

    Natural History Museum "Dawnosaurs" sessions - https://www.nhm.ac.uk/events/dawnosaurs.html

    Hatty Ashdown's website - https://hattyashdown.com/

    CONTACT US

    If you have any feedback about the show, ideas for topics or suggestions for neurodiversity champions you'd like us to give a shout out to, you can email: [email protected]

    FOLLOW US

    Instagram: www.instagram.com/neuroshambles

    Facebook: www.facebook.com/Neuroshambles

    Reddit: www.reddit.com/r/Neuroshambles

    Threads: www.threads.net/@neuroshambles

    CREDITS

    The Neuroshambles theme tune was created by Skilsel on Pixabay: https://pixabay.com/

  • This episode focuses on the daily struggle to find clothing that our neurodifferent children will tolerate wearing.

    Mark talks to Steph Curtis, author and parent of two neurodivergent children (both teenagers, diagnosed autistic - one with a strong PDA profile). They swap tales of regular battles with labels and seams, the nightmare of school clothes and their children's preference for being naked - even in the most inappropriate moments.

    LINKS TO STUFF WE MENTION IN THIS EPISODE:

    “PDA in the family” by Steph Curtis - https://amzn.eu/d/1j8KsYi

    Stephstwogirls on Instagram -www.instagram.com/stephstwogirls

    Steph Curtis’ blog - www.stephstwogirls.co.uk

    Bamboo socks - www.sockshop.co.uk/featured/kids-bamboo

    Crocs - www.crocs.co.uk/c/kids/footwear

    "Neuroshambles giveaway" shoes (size 3) - www.skechers.co.uk/foamies-guzman-steps---aqua-surge/91995L_BLK.html

    Skechers - www.skechers.co.uk/kids

    ASDA sensory school uniform - https://direct.asda.com/george/collections/easy-on-easy-wear-school/D28M110G1C3,default,sc.html

    Marks & Spencers sensory clothing - www.marksandspencer.com/l/kids/easy-dressing

    Sensory Smart Clothing - www.sensorysmart.co.uk

    Fidget-T - www.comfa.co.uk/product/fidget-t

    CONTACT US

    If you have any feedback about the show, ideas for topics or suggestions for neurodiversity champions you'd like us to give a shout out to, you can email: [email protected]

    FOLLOW US

    Instagram: www.instagram.com/neuroshambles

    Facebook: www.facebook.com/Neuroshambles

    Reddit: www.reddit.com/r/Neuroshambles

    Threads: www.threads.net/@neuroshambles

    CREDITS

    The Neuroshambles theme tune was created by Skilsel on Pixabay: https://pixabay.com/music/beats-energetic-hip-hop-8303/

  • This episode discusses the lighter side of parents of SEND kids being treated as outcasts from polite society.

    Mark speaks to Samuel Wilson, author and parent of two children: an 8-year old daughter (on the autism pathway, with Cerebral Palsy, Cerebral Visual Impairment and Sensory Processing Disorder) and a 4-year old son (undiagnosed neurotypical).

    Mark and Sam shine a humorous light on being ostracised by the other parents at school, alienated from WhatsApp groups and treated as a social pariah at parties, before discussing how this social isolation can sometimes be used to our benefit.

    I know, I know, it all sounds a bit gloomy, but trust me, this is a surprisingly fun episode. And what better time to listen to it than when no-one else is around?

    LINKS TO STUFF WE MENTION IN THIS EPISODE:

    Albion in the Community, Brighton - www.bhafcfoundation.org.uk/timetable/Jumpin Fun - www.jumpinfun.co.uk/burgess-hillGladiators - www.gladiatorstv.com/gladiators/bbc/"Lend a Hand", Samuel Wilson's book - www.littlestepspublishing.co.uk/books/lend-a-handAmaze, Sussex - www.amazesussex.org.ukWhoopsadaisy, Brighton - www.whoopsadaisy.org

    CONTACT US

    If you have any feedback about the show, ideas for topics or suggestions for neurodiversity champions you'd like us to give a shout out to, you can email: [email protected]

    FOLLOW US

    Instagram: www.instagram.com/neuroshambles

    Facebook: www.facebook.com/Neuroshambles

    Reddit: www.reddit.com/r/Neuroshambles

    Threads: www.threads.net/@neuroshambles

    CREDITS

    The Neuroshambles theme tune was created by Skilsel on Pixabay: https://pixabay.com/music/beats-energetic-hip-hop-8303/

  • Mark speaks to Angie Belcher - Comedian in Residence at University of Bristol and the proud owner of a neurodiverse 5-year old boy (diagnosed autistic, with suspected ADHD). In this episode, they discuss how something as seemingly straightforward as walking from A to B, can be an entirely different experience with neurodivergent children.

    LINKS TO STUFF WE MENTION IN THIS EPISODE:

    Incredible Kids, Bristol - www.incrediblekids.org.ukBristol Autism Project - www.facecharity.org.uk/our-work/bristol-autism-projectBristol Autism Support - www.bristolautismsupport.orgMurmuration, Bristol - www.murmurationcommunitytherapy.comFlora, Bristol - www.bristolparentcarers.org.uk/2021/05/24/flora-bristols-send-local-offerNational Trust Essential Companions - www.nationaltrust.org.uk/who-we-are/about-us/access-for-everyone"Walking With Toddlers" radio play - www.soundcloud.com/walking-and-re-creation/walking-with-toddlers?si=ca26f00080ee4a908347d0d3962b043c

    CONTACT US

    If you have any feedback about the show, ideas for topics or suggestions for neurodiversity champions you'd like us to give a shout out to, you can email: [email protected]

    FOLLOW US

    Instagram: www.instagram.com/neuroshambles

    Facebook: www.facebook.com/Neuroshambles

    Reddit: www.reddit.com/r/Neuroshambles

    Threads: www.threads.net/@neuroshambles

    CREDITS

    The Neuroshambles theme tune was created by Skilsel on Pixabay: https://pixabay.com/music/beats-energetic-hip-hop-8303/

  • Mark welcomes back the wonderful Jo Matthews - a fellow parent with a neurodivergent setup (a 16-year old autistic daughter, with sensory processing disorder, and a 20 year old autistic son with ADHD). In this episode, they untangle the knotty concept of social etiquette in relation to neurodifferent kids and see how their own families fare, when faced with the 10 golden rules of social etiquette. Warning - this episode contains socially unacceptable behaviour.

    LINKS TO STUFF WE MENTION IN THIS EPISODE:

    Temple Grandin: https://www.templegrandin.com/

    Odeon Cinema autism friendly screenings: https://www.odeon.co.uk/accessibility/autism-friendly/

    Theatre Royal, Brighton: http://theatreroyalbrighton.com/

    Jo's group for mASCot: https://www.asc-mascot.com/teen-and-inbetweeners-club

    To make a donation to mASCot, so they can continue their amazing work: www.givey.com/mascot

    CONTACT US

    If you have any feedback about the show, ideas for topics or suggestions for neurodiversity champions you'd like us to give a shout out to, you can email: [email protected]

    FOLLOW US

    Instagram: www.instagram.com/neuroshambles/

    Facebook: www.facebook.com/Neuroshambles

    Reddit: www.reddit.com/r/Neuroshambles/

    Threads: www.threads.net/@neuroshambles

    CREDITS

    The Neuroshambles theme tune was created by Skilsel on Pixabay: https://pixabay.com/music/beats-energetic-hip-hop-8303/