In this episode of Dysfunctional, Josh sits down with Debra Paynter — business manager, single parent, and advocate — for a raw conversation about raising her son, Teddy, who is autistic and has a learning disability.
They explore:
Why SEND families are so often failed by schools, local authorities, and society
The difference between a tantrum and a meltdown, and what public judgement really feels like
How lockdown became a turning point in Teddy’s development
The exhausting fight to secure the right school place and legal protections
What society could do — right now — to better support SEND parents
The unexpected joy, connection, and resilience Debra has found in her journey
This is a conversation about courage, love, and truth-telling — and it will make you think differently about SEND parenting.
Follow Debra:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/debs.does.asana/
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