Join host Madeleine Jane Lobsey and Aspect’s Positive Behaviour Support practitioner Anna James as they discuss Pathological Demand Avoidance or PDA and autism strategies and why anxiety, not defiance, drives avoidance.

Also known as Persistent Drive for Autonomy and Pervasive Drive for Autonomy, Anna offers examples and practical tips for parents, educators and employers when working with Autistic children and adults.

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In this episode of a different brilliant, host Madeline Jaine Lobsey is joined by 2021 Australian of the Year, Grace Tame — advocate, author, artist and proud autistic woman — for a powerful conversation about autism and masking.

Together, they unpack the lived experience of masking: the conscious and unconscious effort many Autistic people make to hide or suppress their needs to feel safe, fit in, or survive in a world not designed for them. Grace shares with honesty and insight how masking shaped her life, the cost it can have on physical and mental health, and the profound impact of finding safe spaces and genuine connections.

Whether you're Autistic, a parent, educator, health professional or ally — this deeply human conversation will give you new insights into identity, safety, resilience, and why understanding autism from lived experience matters.

Warning

The following podcast discusses sexual abuse. If this causes you distress, please seek professional help or contact 1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732).

Host Madeleine Jaine Lobsey, explores with Dr. Wenn Lawson and Prof. Sandra Thom-Jones why so many older Autistic people have gone undiagnosed, the lasting impact of late recognition and the critical need for autism-friendly accommodations in healthcare and aged care. A conversation that sheds light on an often-overlooked generation and the changes needed to create a more inclusive future.

Dr. Wenn Lawson is an Autistic researcher, author, speaker and poet with expertise in autism across generations. His work focuses on improving autism understanding and support, particularly in areas of mental health and ageing. He is the author of many acclaimed books, including ‘Autism and Being Monotropic: What Medical and Other Practitioners Need to Know’

ProfessorSandra Thom-Jones is an Honorary Professor at the University of Wollongong, an Autistic author, artisan, academic and advocate. She provides consultancy services to education, employment and healthcare providers, and supports for Autistic people, through her consultancy Autistic Professor.

She is the author of 'Growing into Autism' and has dedicated her career to ensuring Autistic voices are central in research and policy discussions.

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