Épisodes

  • ADHD and Autism Pre - Assessment Mini Course Pt 2 of 3 with Connor Johnson
    Sep 16 2025
    Does your child have shutdowns and meltdowns that feel impossible to manage? Does their anxiety creep in at school, or they mask and bring it all home to you, and nobody believes you in school? If any of this sounds familiar, this is for you. Cliff is once again joined by Connor Johnson, an NHS assistant practitioner supporting families with autism and ADHD. In this, the 2nd episode, they move beyond the foundations and focus on behaviours and anxiety. What's really happening beneath the surface? Why certain types of punishments don´t work, and practical strategies you can use to help your child regulate their emotions and navigate daily challenges. 💡 Disclaimer: This mini course shares professional guidance and strategies, but it’s not a substitute for personalised medical advice. If you have concerns about your child, please consult your GP or healthcare professional. EPISODE REVEALS If your child’s shutdowns and meltdowns feel impossible to manage, you’re not alone. Meltdowns are a sign that your child is overwhelmed and no longer in control, not that they are simply refusing to listen. Learn to spot the early signs and redirect. Most of the time punishments don’t work because they don’t address the root causes of behaviour. What you can do instead is covered, in detail, during the episode. Practical strategies like behaviour ABC logs, positive behaviour support plans, and sensory tools can help identify patterns, reduce anxiety, and support your child’s emotional regulation. Modelling healthy emotional responses and giving children time and space to process feelings really helps. BEST MOMENTS “Their behaviour is not your fault.” “You and the child will both be picking up new skills throughout this journey. Updating the plan regularly is really important for that child.” “If we are consistent in holding up that boundary, then that child knows what to expect from us and will therefore find it easier to process our decisions if we're consistent with it.” “Think, What do I do when I'm stressed? Do I shout and slam things? – If that's how I'm behaving, then obviously that's how the child's going to behave.” “Routine and structure are a big part of that predictability, that consistency from parents and caregivers.” GUEST RESOURCES Connor Johnson - Assistant Practitioner at NHS Snapdragons Centre https://www.medwaycommunityhealthcare.nhs.uk The Children’s Public Health Nursing Team at Snapdragons can give advice on: Eating issues: weight, dietary needs, healthy snacks, faddy eating, etc. Allergies, including anaphylaxis (severe reactions) Asthma Diabetes Epilepsy and other chronic conditions Behaviour Emotional well-being Supporting you and your child as they grow 🎧 Listen to the full series on Parenting Autism and ADHD: 👉 Apple Podcasts Also available on Spotify, YouTube, and all major podcast platforms. RESOURCES Cliff´s book - ⁠⁠https://amzn.eu/d/3trk6pw CONTACT ME Instagram: @cliff_kilmister08 ⁠https://www.facebook.com/cliff.kilmister X - @KilmisterCliff YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ParentingAutismandADHD HOST BIO Cliff Kilmister is a dedicated parent, advocate, and cat whisperer with firsthand experience raising a child with autism, ADHD, and Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD). Having navigated the challenges of school refusal, meltdowns, and sensory sensitivities, Cliff brings an empathetic, real-world perspective to the podcast. Cliff offers practical advice, expert insights, and personal stories to help families facing similar struggles. He to raise awareness about the growing need for the education system to adapt to the increasing neurodiverse population. Join the community on Patreon to share experiences, access exclusive content, and work together for change!
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    50 min
  • ADHD and Autism Pre - Assessment Mini Course Pt 1 of 3 with Connor Johnson
    Sep 9 2025
    Are you struggling with behaviours? Do you feel like a bad parent? Can’t cope? Don´t worry it’s not you. This free mini course will help. In Part One of this special 3-part mini-course, NHS practitioner Connor Johnson joins Cliff to discuss the foundational knowledge every parent needs while awaiting or undergoing assessment for autism and ADHD. They explore the importance of sleep, nutrition, and exercise as the building blocks for supporting your child’s development, as well as providing practical strategies you can use right away. Disclaimer - This mini-course shares professional guidance and strategies for parents, but it's not a substitute for personalised medical advice. If you have any concerns about your child, please speak to your GP or healthcare professional, as each situation is unique. EPISODE REVEALS Working with your child´s circadian rhythm makes improving sleep easier e.g. light exposure. Temporarily moving bedtime routines closer to when your child naturally falls asleep can help. Try eating at the table. It helps your child to see others enjoying different foods. Use some of Connor´s gamifying ideas to help them to try more foods. Sometimes food issues are related to sensory perception e.g. a hard green apple and a soft red apple are very different - some children will eat one but not the other. Let your child decompress before mealtimes. Swimming can be a good form of exercise. When a child acts out, ask yourself, "What is my child trying to communicate?" Regularly check in with your child to keep lines of communication open. BEST MOMENTS "Anxiety can be massively related to behaviour and some of the difficulties we see with sleep." "Stay calm and calmly bring them back to their room. Maybe have a little script in your head of just one or two sentences." “It might not always be clear what is being communicated, but behaviour is communication.” GUEST RESOURCES Connor Johnson is an Assistant Practitioner at NHS Snapdragons Centre https://www.medwaycommunityhealthcare.nhs.uk The Children’s Public Health Nursing Team at Snapdragons can give advice on: Eating issues: weight, dietary needs, healthy snacks, faddy eating, etc. Allergies, including anaphylaxis (severe reactions) Asthma Diabetes Epilepsy and other chronic conditions Behaviour Emotional well-being Supporting you and your child as they grow Listen to the full series on Parenting Autism and ADHD: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/parenting-autism-and-adhd/id1810681675 https://www.youtube.com/@ParentingAutismandADHD It's also available on all major podcast platforms. RESOURCES Cliff´s book - ⁠⁠https://amzn.eu/d/3trk6pw CONTACT ME Instagram: @cliff_kilmister08 ⁠https://www.facebook.com/cliff.kilmister/⁠ X - @KilmisterCliff HOST BIO Cliff Kilmister is a dedicated parent, advocate, and cat whisperer with firsthand experience raising a child with autism, ADHD, and Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD). Having navigated the challenges of school refusal, meltdowns, and sensory sensitivities, Cliff brings an empathetic, real-world perspective to the podcast. Cliff offers practical advice, expert insights, and personal stories to help families facing similar struggles. He to raise awareness about the growing need for the education system to adapt to the increasing neurodiverse population. Join the community on Patreon to share experiences, access exclusive content, and work together for change!
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    49 min
  • Thinking Outside the Box When Raising Neurodiverse Children with Victoria Burmeister
    Sep 2 2025
    Cliff speaks with Victoria Burmeister, a resilient single parent and wheelchair user, who shares her powerful story of raising children diagnosed with ADHD, OCD, and ODD. Victoria opens up about navigating the challenges of parenting with limited support, working through the US school system, advocating for her children’s needs and finding natural remedies that actually made a difference. Disclaimer: The information shared in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only. We are not doctors, medical professionals, or licensed healthcare providers. The views expressed are based on personal experiences and research. Always do your own research and consult with your physician or qualified healthcare provider before making any changes to your health, lifestyle, or treatment plan. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you’ve heard on this podcast. EPISODE REVEALS Victoria´s children were clever about outsmarting her and using the fact she was in a chair to get around the boundaries she set. She shares how becoming more creative about discipline enabled her to solve this issue. As early as possible, teach your children to recognize and communicate their own needs, instead of always relying on adults to advocate for them. This builds independence, confidence and resilience. Be open-minded, try things to find out what works for your family. Victoria had great success with natural remedies, dietary changes, LifeWave patches and other alternative therapies. Use humour and pick your battles. Sometimes, letting your child “win” a small battle can defuse tension and, over time, can reduce power struggles. Friends, caregivers, or online communities can also provide backup and emotional support, especially when you are raising your children as a single parent. BEST MOMENTS "Being validated means a lot… it helps you to know that you're not going batty ." "My kids aren't brain surgeons, but … they help people, they care and they're not a menace to society. They both have good jobs, and my daughter is doing an amazing job raising her kids." "I'm a firm believer in the patches. I would go to those … over taking anything over the counter." Victoria Burmeister: https://www.facebook.com/VAllen5 https://www.tiktok.com/@lady_vick68 Find out more about the LifeWave patches Victoria used here: Affiliate Link - LifeWave.com/victoriaallen Thisisitinfo.com RESOURCES Cliff´s book “What To Do When Your Child Shuts Down” - ⁠⁠https://amzn.eu/d/3trk6pw CONTACT ME Instagram: @cliff_kilmister08 https://www.facebook.com/cliff.kilmister/⁠ X - @KilmisterCliff HOST BIO Cliff Kilmister is a dedicated parent, advocate, and cat whisperer with firsthand experience raising a child with autism, ADHD, and Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD). Having navigated the challenges of school refusal, meltdowns, and sensory sensitivities, Cliff brings an empathetic, real-world perspective to the podcast. When he's not helping his child thrive, he’s dodging the evil stares of his three cats, who are plotting to take over the world (fortunately, they still haven’t figured out how to use the tin opener). Cliff offers practical advice, expert insights, and personal stories to help families facing similar struggles. Cliff is focused on connecting with professionals and networks to raise awareness about the growing need for the education system to adapt to the increasing neurodiverse population. Join the community on Patreon to share experiences, access exclusive content, and work together for change!
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    52 min
  • Building Bridges Between Home and School with Tem Ezimokhai
    Aug 26 2025
    Cliff speaks with Tem Ezimokhai, a teacher who is also the host of the brilliant podcast Helping Teachers Thrive. She helps teachers level up and become the best educators they can be. Tem shares some powerful insights into teachers identifying special needs and how parents and teachers can work together more effectively. They also discuss masking, EHCPs, classroom routines and why, often, it´s the little things that make a difference. Whether your child has a diagnosis or you're still trying to figure this out, this conversation is packed with heartfelt perspectives that can really help you feel more informed, empowered and connected. EPISODE REVEALS • Real collaboration between parents and teachers can be life changing. • Build bridges between home and school. • Children are really good at masking, especially at school. Better than many parents realise. • Teachers in the UK need much better training to help them identify ADHD. • Many teachers have no idea how coping strategies work. If they don´t understand, they don´t always buy in and are less supportive. • Securing the right EHCP is still unbelievably difficult. Cliff shares some tips. • Address breakdowns in communication with specific teachers early on. Once both parties truly understand each other things drastically improve. • With the right training and support teachers can get the best out of every child. BEST MOMENTS “The strength is in numbers, so if we can get more teachers on board, more parents on board, together we can achieve so much." "Influence those leaders and get some positive change.” "A happy student is one that learns better." "Teachers need to be themselves and have fun." “If there's anyone out there that is going through an immediate mediation. Make sure your child attends that meeting. Don't do it on your own.” RESOURCES Cliff´s book “What To Do When Your Child Shuts Down” - ⁠⁠https://amzn.eu/d/3trk6pw EPISODE RESOURCES Tem Ezimokhai Link to podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/helping-teachers-thrive/id1681843058 Email: tem@helpingteachersthrive.com Linktree: https://linktr.ee/temsteachingtips Instagram: instagram.com/temsteachingtips LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/tem-ezimokhai-23306a263 Instagram: @helpingteachersthrive Facebook: Helping Teachers Thrive TikTok: @helpingteachersthrive CONTACT ME Instagram: @cliff_kilmister08 Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/cliff.kilmister/⁠ X - @KilmisterCliff HOST BIO Cliff Kilmister is a dedicated parent, advocate, and cat whisperer with firsthand experience raising a child with autism, ADHD, and Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD). Having navigated the challenges of school refusal, meltdowns, and sensory sensitivities, Cliff brings an empathetic, real-world perspective to the podcast. When he's not helping his child thrive, he’s dodging the evil stares of his three cats, who are plotting to take over the world (fortunately, they still haven’t figured out how to use the tin opener). Cliff offers practical advice, expert insights, and personal stories to help families facing similar struggles. Cliff is focused on connecting with professionals and networks to raise awareness about the growing need for the education system to adapt to the increasing neurodiverse population. Join the community on Patreon to share experiences, access exclusive content, and work together for change!
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    46 min
  • From ‘Superpower’ to Reality: What I Learned from the Late Bloomers Podcast
    Aug 19 2025
    In this episode, Cliff and Eva sit down together to talk about Rejection Sensitivity Dysphoria (RSD). Whether you’re a parent, educator, or young person navigating life, this episode offers valuable insights and practical understanding of RSD’s daily effects. Eva and Cliff share personal stories to help you explore the impact RSD has in social settings, at school, and when forming new relationships, including finding a boyfriend or girlfriend. They also address the most common RSD myths. EPISODE REVEALS · What Rejection Sensitivity Dysphoria (RSD) actually is. · Why RSD is not simply about being “too sensitive” and how RSD differs from the relatively fleeting feelings of rejection most people experience. · People with RSD are not choosing to melt-down, it happens because their brains register rejection as a threat. · Why even small rejection cues, e.g. A look or silence can trigger spiralling into emotional overwhelm. · How to put a light spin on things if someone starts bullying you, even if you have RSD. Eva shares how she does this. · Recognising that you have RSD is the first step to understanding and learning how to manage things to minimise the impact it has on your life. · Being able to talk about your day is important. Tech-free family dinners are a great way to make sure your child or partner can do this. BEST MOMENTS "RSD stands for, rejection, sensitive, dysphoria, and some real-life examples of that would be over reactions, over thinking and emotional spirals." "You're not overreacting on purpose .…People with RSD aren't choosing to melt down. The brain registers the rejection as a threat." "One of the other misconceptions was being dramatic for attention. People with RSD often feel ashamed after episodes. It's not performative, it's painful, often followed by self-criticism." “The other misconception is - everyone feels rejected sometimes, this is no different. But the reality is, while rejection does hurt everyone, RSD causes a disproportionately intense and lasting reaction. Like a burn instead of a bruise.” RESOURCES Cliff´s book “What To Do When Your Child Shuts Down” - ⁠⁠https://amzn.eu/d/3trk6pw Eva's YT channel InspireWithUsYT - https://www.youtube.com/@InspireWithUsYT Eva's Art Sketch Book - https://amzn.eu/d/iClQiFq Late Bloomers episode about RSD - https://open.spotify.com/episode/4IzuuE1MwWCDZcaButNUEC CONTACT ME Instagram: @cliff_kilmister08 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cliff.kilmister X - @KilmisterCliff HOST BIO Cliff Kilmister is a dedicated parent, advocate, and cat whisperer with firsthand experience raising a child with autism, ADHD, and Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD). Having navigated the challenges of school, refusal, meltdowns, and sensory sensitivities, Cliff brings an empathetic, real-world perspective to the podcast. When he's not helping his child thrive, he’s dodging the evil stares of his three cats, who are plotting to take over the world (fortunately, they still haven’t figured out how to use the tin opener). Cliff offers practical advice, expert insights, and personal stories to help families facing similar struggles. Cliff is focused on connecting with professionals and networks to raise awareness about the growing need for the education system to adapt to the increasing neurodiverse population. Join the community on Patreon to share experiences, access exclusive content, and work together for change!
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    39 min
  • Protecting Children from Online Danger – With Harry Houghton - UK Police Digital Forensics Examiner
    Aug 12 2025
    Cliff speaks with Harry Houghton, a digital forensics examiner, as he shares how online predators work and what parents can do about it. They talk about the reality of digital investigations, including why that school uniform photo might be more dangerous than you think and how groomers use apps like Roblox to target kids. Harry explains when to call 999 for online threats, introduces the CEOP website that most parents don't know about and shares why talking openly with your children works better than blocking everything. Whether your child is neurotypical or neurodivergent, this conversation covers practical steps for staying safe online. Episode Reveals • How digital forensics work is evolving rapidly. Police now examine terabytes of data, extracting messages, location data, and web history to build criminal cases and protect victims. • Why open communication beats restrictions. Honest conversations about online dangers are more effective than simply blocking access or imposing limits without explanation. • CEOP is a free National Crime Agency resource that provides age appropriate education materials for all key stages and includes vital online reporting functions for suspected abuse. • Many social media posts reveal dangerous information, creating digital footprints that predators can exploit. • Why Parents shouldn't hesitate to call emergency services if they suspect grooming or inappropriate contact with their child, as immediate action prevents evidence destruction. • Why Neurodivergent children face additional risks. Children with autism may struggle to recognise social cues or manipulative behaviour, making them potentially more vulnerable to predators who exploit misplaced trust. • The future brings new dangers, including AI-generated imagery and encrypted messaging apps, making prevention and education more crucial than ever before. BEST MOMENTS "If you are sharing a photo of your child in their school uniform to Facebook or to Instagram or to TikTok... now the whole internet knows what school Johnny goes to." "It is an emergency, so it do, you can ring 999 for that, that is a valid thing to do. You’re not gonna get penalised for saying, I think someone is abusing my child over the internet." "Communication is the key, the best thing, and it really did make a difference." "You have to just go through, you need to have that transparent conversation and make sure that they're aware of the dangers, but they're aware of how they can handle themselves." RESOURCES linkedin.com/in/harry-hought0n https://www.ceopeducation.co.uk/ Link to my book “What To Do When Your Child Shuts Down” ⁠⁠https://amzn.eu/d/9yYaIM6⁠⁠ CONTACT ME · Instagram: @cliff_kilmister08 · Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/cliff.kilmister/⁠ X - @KilmisterCliff HOST BIO Cliff Kilmister is a dedicated parent, advocate, and cat whisperer with firsthand experience raising a child with autism, ADHD, and Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD). Having navigated the challenges of school refusal, meltdowns, and sensory sensitivities, Cliff brings an empathetic, real-world perspective to the podcast. When he's not helping his child thrive, he’s dodging the evil stares of his three cats, who are plotting to take over the world (fortunately, they still haven’t figured out how to use the tin opener). Cliff offers practical advice, expert insights, and personal stories to help families facing similar struggles. Cliff is focused on connecting with professionals and networks to raise awareness about the growing need for the education system to adapt to the increasing neurodiverse population. Join the community on Patreon to share experiences, access exclusive content, and work together for change!
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    54 min
  • What My Autistic Teen Wishes Teachers Knew
    Aug 5 2025
    Cliff is joined again by his daughter Eva. They discuss teaching methods in school, including why phonics doesn't work for her and how she actually learns to spell. She explains what makes classrooms work better for her needs and why different methods are effective for neurodivergent students. Eva also talks about her imaginary friends who give her advice, support and can help regulate her. Episode Reveals • Why phonics methods can be counterproductive for neurodivergent learners. Teaching sounds versus spelling creates confusion when the two don't match, leading to frustration rather than learning. • Memory techniques using phrases and repetition work better than standard methods for many students. • Why stimming objects and comfort items can enhance focus and learning for many neurodiverse pupils. • How imaginary friends and spirit guides can provide emotional regulation. • Why classroom management through humour can be more effective than harsh discipline. • How sensory processing needs impact learning environments. • How teacher recognition builds confidence and motivation. • Why flexible teaching approaches are needed to accommodate different learning styles. BEST MOMENTS "I do not like phonics at all... it's frustrating because it's confusing because it teaches how to say the words... but I spell it how it sounds." "You can stand back and do nothing and watch him have a go at them, or you can step in and try to calm him down." "I was really chuffed that the teacher liked what I was drawing." "The methods that they use in the curriculum don't suit your learning style." "That's very nice. So they're giving you options as well. So it's not like they're controlling you at all. They're helping you regulate your thoughts." RESOURCES Link to my book “What To Do When Your Child Shuts Down” ⁠⁠https://amzn.eu/d/9yYaIM6⁠⁠ CONTACT ME · Instagram: @cliff_kilmister08 · Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/cliff.kilmister/⁠ X - @KilmisterCliff HOST BIO Link to my book “What To Do When Your Child Shuts Down” ⁠https://amzn.eu/d/9yYaIM6⁠Cliff Kilmister is a dedicated parent, advocate, and cat whisperer with firsthand experience raising a child with autism, ADHD, and Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD). Having navigated the challenges of school refusal, meltdowns, and sensory sensitivities, Cliff brings an empathetic, real-world perspective to the podcast. When he's not helping his child thrive, he’s dodging the evil stares of his three cats, who are plotting to take over the world (fortunately, they still haven’t figured out how to use the tin opener). Cliff offers practical advice, expert insights, and personal stories to help families facing similar struggles. Cliff’s daughter will be a regular guest, sharing her experiences and strategies that work for her. And joining him in this journey is his wife, Annie, who will also contribute to the podcast with her unique perspective and support. Cliff is focused on connecting with professionals and networks to raise awareness about the growing need for the education system to adapt to the increasing neurodiverse population. Join the community on Patreon to share experiences, access exclusive content, and work together for change! This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/
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    23 min
  • Love on the Spectrum vs Reality: 3 Generations of Autism Stories
    Jul 29 2025
    Cliff is joined in this episode by his mum to explore three generations of neurodiversity within their family. From his grandmother's unrecognised traits to his daughter Eva's current struggles with autism, ADHD, and sensory processing disorder, they discuss the hidden patterns that run through families. His mother shares stories about Eva's masking behaviours, the park incident that changed everything and even how food colourings can affect behaviour. They also talk about strategies that can help families, like the "circle of trust" dinnertime rule, why timing warnings are crucial for autistic children and the reality of how schools still fail neurodiverse students. Episode Reveals • How masking is very real and can be deceptive. Children with autism often appear perfectly behaved in public settings, making it difficult for others to recognise their struggles and leading to delayed diagnosis and support. • Artificial food dyes have been linked to hyperactivity, aggression, depression and meltdowns in sensitive children, making dietary monitoring important for behaviour management. • Transitions for neurodiverse children require advance warning. Autistic children particularly need preparation time before changes, using strategies like "five more minutes" warnings rather than abrupt transitions that can trigger meltdowns. • Meal times can create safe spaces for children to share problems and build trust with parents, which is essential for supporting children. • Tools like doodle pads, fidget items, and understanding of sensory overload are essential for learning, not distractions to be eliminated. • Parents don't need school referrals to seek autism assessments; going directly to your GP can prevent years of delays in getting proper support. • Private psychological assessments can provide the detailed evidence needed to win EHCP appeals when local authority assessments fall short. • Neurodiversity is hereditary and often unrecognised. Traits frequently pass through generations, with older family members only recognising their own autism or ADHD after grandchildren are diagnosed. BEST MOMENTS "It was like she wasn't there. It was like she wasn't in control." "I used to like the quiet. I still like it. I don't, I struggle with situations where there's lots of noise." "You are needed. We are all needed. " "It's not labelling, it's identifying that we need some different strategies to support her." RESOURCES Link to my book “What To Do When Your Child Shuts Down” ⁠⁠https://amzn.eu/d/9yYaIM6⁠⁠ CONTACT ME · Instagram: @cliff_kilmister08 · Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/cliff.kilmister/⁠ X - @KilmisterCliff HOST BIO Cliff Kilmister is a dedicated parent, advocate, and cat whisperer with firsthand experience raising a child with autism, ADHD, and Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD). Having navigated the challenges of school refusal, meltdowns, and sensory sensitivities, Cliff brings an empathetic, real-world perspective to the podcast. When he's not helping his child thrive, he’s dodging the evil stares of his three cats, who are plotting to take over the world (fortunately, they still haven’t figured out how to use the tin opener). Cliff offers practical advice, expert insights, and personal stories to help families facing similar struggles. Cliff’s daughter will be a regular guest, sharing her experiences and strategies that work for her. And joining him in this journey is his wife, Annie, who will also contribute to the podcast with her unique perspective and support. Cliff is focused on connecting with professionals and networks to raise awareness about the growing need for the education system to adapt to the increasing neurodiverse population. Join the community on Patreon to share experiences, access exclusive content, and work together for change! This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/
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    59 min