In this episode of a different brilliant, Dr James Best reflects on his journey as both a father of an Autistic son and a GP, sharing the challenges and insights he’s gained along the way. He offers practical advice on staying connected, balancing family life and the important role fathers play in raising Autistic children.

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In this episode of a different brilliant, host Madeleine Jane Lobsey is joined by Jennifer Lowe, autism researcher and PhD candidate at La Trobe University’s Olga Tennison Autism Research Centre, to explore a subject often avoided but deeply human: grief.

Jennifer shares her lived experience alongside insights from her research into how Autistic people process grief and bereavement. Together, they discuss how grief extends beyond the death of a loved one, pet, or friend. For many Autistic people, the loss of routines, meaningful objects, or everyday familiarity can also evoke feelings of grief.

Topics include:

• Defining grief in an Autistic context
• Autistic experiences of bereavement
• Anticipatory grief and first experiences of loss
• Objects, routines, and the meaning of everyday losses
• Supporting autistic people through grief
• Strategies for families, educators and professionals
• Reflections on wider cultural approaches to death

Whether you’re an Autistic adult, a parent or carer, or a professional supporting neurodivergent people, this episode offers both practical insights and moving lived experience.

Please note: This episode discusses sensitive themes. If you experience distress, please seek support through Lifeline on 13 11 14 or the services below.

Additional resources:

Aspect’s self-compassion program: https://www.aspect.org.au/our-research/evidence-informed-guides-programs/aspaa

Beyond Blue: https://www.beyondblue.org.au/

Headspace: https://headspace.org.au/

Black Dog Institute: https://www.blackdoginstitute.org.au/resources-support/

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In the latest episode of A Different Brilliant, host Madeleine Jane Lobsey is joined by Michael Theo and therapist and author Jodi Rodgers to explore relationships, dating, intimacy and consent.

Together, they unpack common myths, including the idea that people on the autism connection don’t want romantic or physical connection, and highlight the diversity of neurodivergent experience when it comes to love, communication and sensuality.

Topics include:

• Navigating dating as an Autistic person

• How to build healthy relationships and self-worth

• Understanding consent through an Autistic lens

• Supporting young people and adults with inclusive sex and relationships education

• The power of trial-and-error, resilience and authentic connection

Whether you’re an Autistic adult, a parent or carer, or a professional supporting neurodivergent people, this episode offers both practical insights and moving lived experience.

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