Stories About Autism

This week I get to speak with Wemima (Wemzy), a mum of three autistic children. They live in the North of England, and Wemzy shares stories from their lives on her TikTok and Instagram pages Aqotas. If you spend any time on the autism side of TikTok, then I’m sure you will have come across their page and their wonderful family. There are so many heartwarming, funny videos that she shares, and the bond between them all is lovely to watch. We talk about the early days, getting an autism diagnosis for her eldest, Shaheem, and what she learned along the way. Shaheem, Soufiyan and Sousan have very different personalities and needs, so we talk about the balancing act it takes to try and meet those needs and keep everybody happy. I met Wemzy at the start of the summer at the SEN Reform Protest, so we talked about her family’s experience with the schooling system. Each of her children has different levels of communication and spoken words, we talk about that development, and how important the use of AAC has been in their home. We talk about autism within the African community and some of the stigma and misinformation that has made life more challenging for her family. Wemzy also talks very openly and honestly about how religious abuse is also so prevalent, and the damage it does to so many within the community. Wemzy is hugely passionate about standing up for her beliefs, and for those who need support, something she offers each day through her stories and the relationships she’s built online. I loved getting to know more about her and her story, and I’m sure you will too. To find out more about Wemzy and her family, you can follow her on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aqotas/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@aqotas To follow us and learn more about me and my boys Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/storiesaboutautism/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@stories_about_autism Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/storiesaboutautism This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit storiesaboutautism.substack.com

This week I’m joined by Ashley Blaker. Ashley is a dad of 6, that’s right 6 kids. Two of his children are autistic, and he also has an adopted daughter who has Down Syndrome. As well as being a dad, Ashley is a comedian and writer and has been part of numerous TV and radio shows such as Little Britain, V Graham Norton, and Fantasy Football League, as well as two Off-Broadway shows. Ashley recorded a BBC Radio 4 show with his family, Ashley Blaker 6.5 Children, which is part stand-up, part documentary, where they discuss parenting, adoption, and raising children with special needs. This has led to his new book, Normal Schmormal which he describes as his occasionally helpful guide to parenting kids with special needs. It’s a part memoir, part how-to guide, sharing the challenges as well as the many rewarding and happy moments of parenting children with additional needs. I found the book insightful and funny in equal measure, and well worth a read for any family with SEN in their lives. We get to talk about the journey Ashley and his family have been on and the complicated juggling of such a large family with contrasting needs. From the endless meetings and appointments to the battles with the schooling system. The progress his kids have made, learning to ignore the idiots, and Ashley’s hopes for the future. I loved getting to know more about Ashley and his family, and I’m sure you will too. Let me know what you thought about the episode in the comments. To find out more about Ashley and his work head over to his website This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit storiesaboutautism.substack.com

This week I’m joined by Stephanie Vavron, who tells us her family’s story about autism. Steph lives in Scotland, is a single mum of two, and her youngest, Max, is autistic and also has Cerebral Palsy. I first became aware of Steph last year when one of her TikTok videos about the packed lunches she makes for Max went viral. Whereas many autistic kids will only eat what’s often described as beige food, Max is the complete opposite and loves spicy foods and different textures. Join us as we talk about - Max's diagnosis, and what led Steph to push for one - What autism means for Max - Meltdowns and self-injurious behaviours - Co-parenting, and the juggle of work and meeting Max's needs - The school system and some of the problems facing families across the UK - The importance of community and finding others who you can relate to Follow Steph Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stephanievavron/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@stephanievavron For more from me Substack: https://storiesaboutautism.substack.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/storiesaboutautism/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@stories_about_autism Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/storiesaboutautism Thanks for listening This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit storiesaboutautism.substack.com

On this week’s episode of the Stories About Autism Podcast , I’m joined by TJ from the social media pages Nigh Functioning Autism. TJ is an autistic adult who was diagnosed in her teens, along with diagnoses of epilepsy, OCD, and ADHD. She is a single mum of 3, and two of her children are autistic. I’ve been speaking with TJ online for years, and often picking her brain as she is such a font of knowledge, and always happy to help, as anyone who already follows her will know, especially. This is especially true when it comes to using AAC devices just like my son Tommy does. In this episode, we talk about some really important topics, including * The shock TJ had when received her autism diagnosis * Going through the autism diagnosis process with 2 of her children * TJ’s own communication struggles and the difference AAC has made to her life * Some tips from TJ on how to get started with AAC and implement it at home * The power of social media and the community and how combined with her autism diagnosis, it helped her feel human for the first time in her life. * We discuss some of the divisions within the autism community, and how deep down we all want the same thing * ABA, and some of the differences in the systems in the US and the UK * We touch on some of the difficulties black and brown families face in America, in particular, related to autism and disability. * The police’s lack of understanding when it comes to disability, and the fear families have when it comes to keeping their disabled family members safe You can find out more about TJ and follow her in the places below Instagram: Facebook: TikTok: YouTube: To listen to the episode in your favourite podcast player click here This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit storiesaboutautism.substack.com

This week I talk with Martin, an autistic adult from Denmark. Martin also has diagnoses of ADHD and Tourettes, and shares stories from his life on his Instagram and TikTok pages A Different Spectrum. Join us as we talk about Follow Martin Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/a_different_spectrum TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@a_different_spectrum Follow me: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/storiesaboutautism/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/storiesaboutautism TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@stories_about_autism YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@storiesaboutautism I hope you enjoyed the episode. If you did please leave a review and subscribe to help others find the podcast and ensure you don't miss an episode This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit storiesaboutautism.substack.com

This week I talk with Nicola, a mum of three girls, including Hallie who is autistic. Nicola has been sharing her family's story on Instagram and TikTok for the last 18 months on her page Happy Hands With Hallie. Join us as we talk about Follow Nicola Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/happyhandswith_hallie/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100090140610963 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@happyhandswith_hallie YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@happyhandswith_hallie Follow me: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/storiesaboutautism/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/storiesaboutautism TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@stories_about_autism YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@storiesaboutautism I hope you enjoyed the episode. If you did please leave a review and subscribe to help others find the podcast and ensure you don't miss an episode This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit storiesaboutautism.substack.com

Join me as I chat with Jan and Tabitha from Hunrosa Sleep Consultancy, discussing why so many autistic people struggle with sleep, and what we can do to make sleep better for the whole family. In this episode we talk about You can find out more about Hunrosa, their services, and their app : https://hunrosa.co.uk/ Their free resources: https://hunrosa.co.uk/resources/ instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hunrosa.sleep/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hunrosasleep To book a free consultation: https://calendly.com/sleepmeet/talk-to-a-sleep-consultant?month=2023-07 Follow me: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/storiesaboutautism/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/storiesaboutautism TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@stories_about_autism For exclusive content and monthly zoom call, support the podcast: https://www.facebook.com/storiesaboutautism/support/ I hope you enjoyed this episode. If you did, please leave a review and subscribe to help others find the podcast This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit storiesaboutautism.substack.com

In this episode, me and Heidi discuss Follow Heidi Website:https://www.heidimavir.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/heidimavir/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/heidi.bangtidy TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@heidimavir Her book: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Your-Child-Not-Broken-Neurodivergent/dp/1035030578/ref=sr_1_2_sspa?keywords=heidi+mavir+my+child+is+not+broken&qid=1689718020&sprefix=heidi+ma%2Caps%2C68&sr=8-2-spons&sp_csd=d2lkZ2V0TmFtZT1zcF9hdGY&psc=1 Follow me: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/storiesaboutautism/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@stories_about_autism Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/storiesaboutautism Become a Supporter: https://www.facebook.com/becomesupporter/storiesaboutautism/ (For exclusive content and a monthly zoom meet up) I hope you enjoyed the episode. If you did please subscribe and leave a review to help others find the podcast This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit storiesaboutautism.substack.com

This week I'm mixing it up a bit and telling you more about our story. I'm answering questions from previous podcast guests, and from some of our followers on Instagram. I get to talk about *The early years for Tommy and Jude, and their diagnosis *Therapies that have helped along the way *The greatest challenges we've faced *Worrying about the future *What made me decide to start blogging And much more.... Hopefully you enjoy this episode and I'll do some more in the future USEFUL LINKS Our blog: http://www.storiesaboutautism.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/storiesaboutautism/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/storiesaboutautism/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit storiesaboutautism.substack.com

This week I get to talk to my first international guest, Jill Powell, all the way from South Carolina, USA I've been friends with Jill for a few years now, after getting to know her through her blog Walking With Drake. Jill is the mum of Drake, who is autistic, and it's their story she shares with me. We talk about the early years, what led to Drake's diagnosis, and how things differ in America compared to the UK when it comes to services and therapies. We also talk about ABA therapy, communication devices, and their autism service dog, Koda, and how much she has transformed Drake's life. Jill talks very positively about autism, and is true to her feelings with all that she writes. I'm sure you'll love getting to know more about her and Drake Useful Links: Jill's blog: http://walkingwithdrake.blogspot.com/ Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/Walking-With-Drake-571808809631553/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/walkingwithdrake/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit storiesaboutautism.substack.com

We're back! After a much longer break than intended, we're kicking off season 3 with a very special guest, Carly Jones MBE. I found Carly on twitter last year and have been an avid follower ever since. Carly is a mum of 3 girls, 2 of whom are autistic. It was during their diagnosis process that she too would later be diagnosed as autistic. We talk all about this time in their lives, what autism means to them as a family, and how Carly feels about her diagnosis being missed when she was younger. Carly readily admits that once she discovered she was autistic, she found her true life purpose, to try and help other autistic girls. Ever since then she has been a massive advocate, campaigning, raising awareness, and educating the world on autism in girls. We speak all about her advocacy work, which has gone so well that last year Carly was awarded an MBE Useful Links from our chat Carly's website: http://britishautismadvocate.simpl.com/ Carly's twitter: https://twitter.com/CarlyJonesMBE Epidemic of Knowledge - Carly's film about diagnosis: https://www.reelhouse.org/olley/epidemic-of-knowledge This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit storiesaboutautism.substack.com

This week I'm joined by Miriam Gwynne, mother of autistic twins, Isaac and Naomi. Miriam also who writes the blog Faith Mummy I've been reading Miriam's blog since before I started my own, and have loved following Isaac and Naomi's progress over the years, so was delighted to get the chance to talk with her about their story. Even though they are twins, autism means very different things for Isaac and Naomi, just like it does for Tommy and Jude. We get to talk all about their younger years, when the word autism first entered their lives, and also the many other diagnoses that Isaac would later receive. Then we talk about Isaac's unique way of communicating, through Google Maps, and also about how he absolutely loves lifts (elevators) and how it led to being sent lift videos from around the world, and even from Holly and Phil on This Morning! We discuss Naomi's selective mutism, and the strength of her bond with her brother. When their local park receive a makeover Naomi was able to campaign for them to make further changes and put in a swing that her brother could use. Finally we talk about the journey that Miriam has been on as a mother and full-time carer, the ups and downs, and how she has recently been making a real effort to look after herself too. I loved getting to know Miriam's family's story and I'm sure you will too. To read more about Miriam and the twins go to https://faithmummy.wordpress.com/ Or you can find her on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/Faithmummy1/?ref=br_rs This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit storiesaboutautism.substack.com

This week I'm talking to Caro Greenwood, who is a mum of 4, wife of Rugby World Cup winner Will Greenwood, and runs the blog Spikey Mama Caro's daughter Matilda is autistic, but getting a diagnosis has been far from straightforward. Caro shares all that they went through, the numerous specialists and professionals they saw over the years before finally a diagnosis was given We talk all things autism, what it means for their family, and in particular their experiences with school, and how they've struggled to find one that meets Matilda's needs. Caro's also very honest sharing some of the mistakes she's made over the years as a parent, and just how much she's evolved in the process. Lots of fascinating insight You can follow Caro and her story over on Instagram at her page Spikey Mama https://www.instagram.com/spikey_mama/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit storiesaboutautism.substack.com

A couple of years ago, whilst the world was reflecting on Donald Trump being elected as the new US President, another story went viral and was challenging it for most read. That was the story of today's guest, his autistic son Ben, and a little blue cup! After following that story, I met Marc a few months ago, and knew I had to get him as a guest on the podcast. Marc introduces us to the story of his family, his three autistic children, and what autism means to their lives. We talk about their individual strengths and challenges, and how they all get on under one roof. We discuss the provision that's out there for autistic adults once they leave school (or lack of) and what the government should be doing to put things right. We also speak about mental health, in particular Marc's own story, and that of carers in general. Plus of course we talk about Ben's Little Blue Cup, and how that one story has turned into a charity that helps hundreds of families worldwide. I'm sure this is an episode that you're going to love. To find out more about Marc check out his Grumpy Dad page https://www.facebook.com/OriginalGrumpyDad/ To follow Little Blue Cup click here https://www.facebook.com/LittleBlueCup/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit storiesaboutautism.substack.com

I've been asked by so many listeners if I can interview a teacher who works with autistic children. Well this week I go one better and speak to Victoria Hatton, who's not only a teacher, but also has an autistic daughter too. Victoria shares so much valuable information, tips and ideas, looking at autism as both a teacher and a parent. We get to talk about what inspired her to become a teacher, and the strategies she's developed along the way. We learn about her daughter's diagnosis, and how her special interests really helped her to thrive. Victoria also shares strategies that might help other children, how to go about getting extra support in school or an EHCP, and also what to do if school isn't working. I loved our chat together, and sure you will too. To find out more about Victoria and the work she does go to https://starlightandstories.com/ or to find the groups she mentions and her book go to https://autismconsultancyinternational.com/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit storiesaboutautism.substack.com

Finally we're back! In the first episode of series 2 I talk with Nicole, who writes the blog My Boy Blue, and is mum to Riley, who is autistic. A few months back Nicole convinced me to join the world of Snapchat so that I could take part in her "Through Their Eyes" campaign, to raise autism awareness during Autism Awareness Week. It went incredibly well and also raised thousands of pounds for a local autism charity in Ireland. During this episode we get to talk about Nicole and Riley's whole journey, from what first prompted her to take Riley to see a doctor, to the impact of his diagnosis and life is like today. We chat about the state of autism services in Ireland, and how an autism service dog is changing Riley's life. We also talk about the power of social media and just how much of a difference it is making in her local community. Nicole was a great guest, who was completely honest and open in sharing stories from their lives. You can find out more about Nicole and Riley by following them on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/myboyblue2017/ and also on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/my_boy_blue_2017/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit storiesaboutautism.substack.com

Today I get to talk to Steph from the blog Steph's Two Girls. In case you couldn't guess, Steph is the mum of two daughters, and she shares with me her autism story about her youngest daughter Sasha who is autistic. Sasha's diagnosis is a little bit different as she is diagnosed with a distinct profile of autism called Pathological Demand Avoidance or PDA. I knew nothing about PDA until I found Steph's blog a couple of years ago, so it was great to get to talk to her, learn some more about what PDA is and share it with you all. We talk about how Sasha came to get a PDA diagnosis, what it means for her everyday life, and some of the strategies they use to help Sasha to cope. A really interesting and informative episode, I hope you enjoy it! To find out more about Steph and her story visit her blog http://www.stephstwogirls.co.uk/ and for more information about PDA please see https://www.pdasociety.org.uk/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit storiesaboutautism.substack.com

A few years ago when I stumbled upon the world of autism and social media, one of the first blogs I read by an autistic adult was a blog called Autistic Not Weird written by Chris Bonnello. Since then I've got to know Chris a little bit and was really excited to talk to him on this episode and find out his story about autism. We get to talk about what life was like for Chris in his younger years, knowing he was different but not having a diagnosis. How his life changed once he received his diagnosis as an adult, and what being autistic has meant for him building relationships and having a career. We also talk about some of Chris most popular blog posts, and some of the great advice he has for parents of children with autism. You can find out more about Chris on his blog http://autisticnotweird.com/ which has all of the original articles that he talks about. You should also check out his Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/autisticnotweird/?ref=br_rs Hit the subscribe button so you don't miss any of our episodes, and head over to Instagram to find out what's going on in the daily lives of me and my two boys https://www.instagram.com/storiesaboutautism/ Thanks for listening This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit storiesaboutautism.substack.com

In each episode I get to speak to a parent of a child with autism, an autistic adult, or somebody who works with the autism community, today I get to speak to somebody who ticks all 3 boxes! Ella, of the blog Purple Ella, someone who I met a couple of years ago, shortly after her own diagnosis. We talk about what difference it's made to her life, meltdowns, anxiety, and the strategies she's put in place to help cope. How important routine is for her and her family, and how her autism diagnosis has led to a brand new career. Some great insight that's really useful for family members and autistic individuals alike. You can find out more about Ella on her blog https://www.purpleella.com/ and all over social media by searching for Purple Ella For more about me, Tommy and Jude, head to http://www.storiesaboutautism.com/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit storiesaboutautism.substack.com

Here's a chat with a very good friend of mine, Kevin O'Neill, from the Facebook page, Autism From A Dad's Eye View. Kevin is the dad to 3 children, and 2 of them are autistic. We get to talk about their diagnosis, how autism is so different for them both, schools, their love for their big sister, and regression. We also talk about being non-verbal, pro-Stim, and much much more. To find out more about Kevin visit his Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/AutismFromADadsEyeView/ and to find the two groups he mentions Autism and Food https://www.facebook.com/groups/1962377904002332/ and his dad's group 'Autism Dad's In It Together' https://www.facebook.com/groups/798672493573079/ For more about James, Tommy and Jude visit https://www.storiesaboutautism.com This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit storiesaboutautism.substack.com