Shows
Finding Your Identity in Your Autism JourneyEp. 17: Why Special Needs Families Need a Financial PlanIn this episode, Ruth Cassell and Tim Reynolds discuss the complexities of financial planning for families with special needs children. They explore various topics including health insurance options, the importance of trusts, the impact of caregiving on family stability, and the role of life insurance. The conversation emphasizes the need for proactive planning and the importance of understanding available resources and tools to secure a better future for families navigating the autism journey.TakeawaysThis is your space to find community.Everybody needs help.Autism and special needs is...2025-05-2353 min
Finding Your Identity in Your Autism JourneyEp. 16: Building a Community – The Vision of Isaiah VillageSummary:In this conversation, Ruth Cassell and Lavina Ward discuss the mission and vision behind Isaiah Village, a community initiative aimed at providing a safe and inclusive environment for individuals with special needs. They explore the challenges of securing funding, the importance of community support, and the impact of donations on families. The discussion emphasizes the need for collaboration and advocacy to create a sustainable future for individuals with developmental disabilities.Takeaways:Isaiah Village aims to create a safe and inclusive community for individuals with special needs.The inspiration...2025-05-2331 min
Finding Your Identity in Your Autism JourneyEp. 15: Rest Quest Author Interview Linda Santana ArroyoSummaryIn this enlightening conversation, Ruth Cassell and Linda Santana Arroyo delve into the critical importance of rest and renewal for caregivers. They explore personal experiences, practical strategies, and the necessity of building a supportive community. The discussion emphasizes that rest is not a luxury but a vital component of caregiving, mental health, and overall well-being. Linda shares insights from her book, 'Rest Quest', highlighting the need for daily renewal and the significance of self-honor in the caregiving journey.TakeawaysRest is essential for caregivers to maintain strength.Guilt...2025-05-2348 min
Finding Your Identity in Your Autism JourneyEpisode 13: Part 2 C-Sections & Autism – What’s the Connection?SummaryIn this conversation, Ruth Cassell shares her personal journey of childbirth, focusing on the potential links between C-sections and autism. She discusses her traumatic birth experience, the complications she faced, and the implications for her child's development. The conversation emphasizes the importance of understanding the multifaceted nature of autism, advocating for early intervention, and supporting maternal health.TakeawaysC-sections may contribute to autism rates due to various factors.The birth experience can significantly shape a child's developmental journey.Autism is influenced by a multitude of factors...2025-05-2329 min
Finding Your Identity in Your Autism JourneyEp. 14 Adaptive Swim & Water Safety with Coach Joy CarnahanSummary: In this episode, Ruth is joined by Coach Joy to discuss the urgent topic of water safety for autistic children. They explore how adaptive swim lessons meet the unique needs of neurodivergent kids, share real success stories, and offer practical tips for parents to keep their children safe in and around water.Key Takeaways:Drowning is a leading cause of death for autistic individualsAdaptive swim lessons offer a sensory-friendly, trust-based approachEvery child is different—presume competence and build communicationParents should advocate for personalized water safety strategiesExposure and consistency help overcome fear and build skillsSo...2025-05-2359 min
Finding Your Identity in Your Autism JourneyEp. 12 Off the Cuff – Real Talk from Two ASD MomsSummary: In this unfiltered conversation, Ruth and Kanika open up about the realities of raising autistic children—from the early diagnosis phase to navigating insurance, funding therapies, food challenges, and AAC. They share personal stories, practical insights, and the emotional highs and lows of autism parenting. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed or alone, this episode reminds you: you’re not.Key Takeaways:Autism journeys are deeply personal—no one-size-fits-allEarly intervention and insurance access vary by stateGrants and scholarships can help fill funding gapsFood therapy and AAC tools can make a big differenceCommunity and support are essentia...2025-05-2243 min
Finding Your Identity in Your Autism JourneyEp. 11 Pregnancy, Delivery & Autism – The Meconium ConnectionSummary: In this episode, Ruth dives into the potential link between meconium exposure at birth and autism, blending personal birth stories with current research. She highlights the importance of early intervention, birth trauma awareness, and parental advocacy—especially for families who’ve never heard of Meconium-Stained Amniotic Fluid (MSAF) or Meconium Aspiration Syndrome (MAS).Key Takeaways:Meconium is a baby’s first stool—if inhaled, it may affect breathing and developmentSome studies show increased autism rates linked to meconium exposureOxygen deprivation and inflammation may play a role in neurodevelopmentBirth stories can hold valuable clues for early supportP...2025-05-2219 min
Finding Your Identity in Your Autism JourneyEp. 10 Emergency Preparedness for Special Needs FamiliesSummaryIn this episode of 'Finding Your Identity in Your Autism Journey', Ruth Cassell discusses the importance of emergency preparedness for families with special needs. She emphasizes the need for a solid plan, tools, and resources to ensure safety during emergencies. The conversation covers practical strategies, public safety measures, and proactive steps to take in order to mitigate risks and enhance communication in stressful situations. Ruth also provides a free emergency preparedness checklist to help families tailor their plans to their specific needs.TakeawaysEmergency preparedness is crucial for special needs...2025-05-2217 min
Finding Your Identity in Your Autism JourneyEp. 9 Unlocking Communication: Lessons from Our AAC JourneySummaryIn this episode of 'Finding Your Identity in Your Autism Journey', Ruth Cassell shares her family's experience with Augmented and Alternative Communication (AAC) devices. She discusses the challenges and triumphs of implementing AAC, the importance of communication in the autism journey, and the emotional growth that comes with it. Ruth provides practical insights, tools, and resources for families navigating similar paths, emphasizing the significance of patience and belief in a child's potential.TakeawaysYour story matters. Your voice matters.Unlocking communication is crucial in the autism journey.2025-05-2238 min
Finding Your Identity in Your Autism JourneyEp. 8 (Bonus) Our Autism Journey: Meet Your Hosts Ruth and Kanika SummaryIn this episode of 'Finding Your Identity in Your Autism Journey', hosts Ruth and Kanika explore their personal experiences with autism, including navigating diagnosis, therapy, and the challenges of motherhood. They discuss the importance of finding identity within the autism journey, the impact of relocation on their lives, and the significance of advocacy and financial planning for families with children on the spectrum. The conversation emphasizes the need for community support and understanding as they share their stories and insights.TakeawaysFinding identity in autism is a lifelong journey.2025-05-2234 min
Finding Your Identity in Your Autism JourneyEp. 7. Nonverbal vs. Minimally Verbal: Understanding Communication on the Autism SpectrumSummaryIn this episode of 'Finding Your Identity in Your Autism Journey', Ruth Cassell explores the complexities of communication challenges faced by individuals with autism, particularly focusing on apraxia and alternative communication methods. The discussion emphasizes the importance of understanding these challenges, the role of various communication tools, and the need for advocacy and self-care among caregivers.TakeawaysUnderstanding the difference between non-verbal and minimally verbal communication is essential.Apraxia is a motor planning issue, not a cognitive delay.Alternative communication methods can empower individuals with autism.2025-05-2219 min
Finding Your Identity in Your Autism JourneyEp. 6: Understanding Autism Level 3 and Dual LevelsSummary: In this episode, Ruth explores the realities of Level 3 Autism—marked by high support needs and complex communication challenges. Through real-life stories and faith-filled insight, she shares practical strategies for communication, sensory support, routine, emergency planning, and collaboration with therapists. Whether you’re just starting or deep in the journey, this episode reminds you: you are not alone.Key Takeaways:Level 3 autism looks different for every individualAAC can open powerful communicationRoutines bring peace; sensory supports bring reliefBe ready with emergency plansAdvocacy requires teamwork and preparationPatience, prayer, and persistence matterReal-Life Examples:Daniel: Nonverbal, Leve...2025-05-2227 min
Finding Your Identity in Your Autism JourneyEp. 5: Understanding Autism Level 2 and Dual LevelsSummaryIn this episode of 'Finding Your Identity in Your Autism,' Ruth Cassell explores the complexities of Level 2 Autism, including its characteristics, the concept of dual level diagnosis, and actionable strategies for support. The discussion emphasizes the importance of understanding individual needs and collaborating with professionals to create effective support plans. Resources and tools for families navigating Level 2 Autism are also highlighted, providing valuable insights for caregivers and educators.TakeawaysLevel 2 Autism requires substantial support in communication and behavior.Dual level diagnosis highlights the complexity of autism.2025-05-2216 min
Finding Your Identity in Your Autism JourneyEp 4: Understanding Autism Level 1 and Dual LevelsSummaryIn this episode, Ruth Cassell explores the complexities of autism, focusing on the Autism Spectrum and the concept of dual levels. She discusses the importance of understanding individual needs and the various support strategies available for those on the spectrum. The episode also highlights valuable resources for families and concludes with key takeaways about the nature of autism and the importance of tailored support.TakeawaysYour story matters. Your voice matters.Autism is a spectrum and dual levels highlight diversity.Level one does not mean the...2025-05-2216 min
Finding Your Identity in Your Autism JourneyEp. 3. Balancing Life as a Parent and Advocate: Finding Your HarmonyIn this episode of Finding Your Identity in Your Autism Journey, we dive into one of the biggest challenges for parents of children with autism: balancing the roles of parent and advocate while maintaining your personal life. It’s a delicate dance that requires strategy, resilience, and self-compassion.We’ll explore:Practical tips for organizing your time and energy when juggling advocacy and parenting.Questions to ask therapists, doctors, and educators to ensure your child gets the best support.Strategies for navigating IEP meetings and ensuring your child’s needs are met in...2025-05-2219 min
Finding Your Identity in Your Autism JourneyEp.2 Self-Care for Parents of Children on the Spectrum: Filling Your Cup FirstParenting a child on the autism spectrum is a journey filled with love, challenges, and dedication. But how can you care for your child if you’re running on empty? In this episode of Finding Your Identity in Your Autism Journey, host Ruth Cassell dives deep into the importance of self-care for parents of children on the spectrum. Learn why self-care isn’t selfish but essential, and explore actionable strategies to recharge emotionally, physically, and spiritually.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:The Importance of Self-Care: Why prioritizing your h...2025-05-2218 min
Finding Your Identity in Your Autism JourneyEp. 1. Why 'Finding Your Identity in Your Autism Journey' ExistsWelcome to the very first episode of Finding Your Identity in Your Autism Journey! In this heartfelt debut, your host, Ruth Cassell, shares her personal “why” behind launching this podcast. As a parent of a nonverbal autistic child, Ruth dives into her lived experiences, the challenges, and the triumphs that shaped her journey.This episode is more than an introduction — it’s a mission statement. Ruth explains how Finding Your Identity in Your Autism Journey was created to be a safe space for parents, caregivers, siblings, educators, and professionals to explore the multifaceted world of autism...2025-05-2213 min
ADHDAFThe Most ADHD Things of 2023Recorded on New Years Eve in a hotel room in London. My husband 'Big' and I might not be anywhere near as funny as we think we are but we hope you find this very special episode mildly amusing at least! :) After an entire day hyperfocussing with no logic whatsoever on finding my favourite Most ADHD Thing entries of the year, my glamorous, gargantuan assistant 'the fluttering heart' of ADHDAF 'helps' me read them. The ultimate Shame Eradicator, 'The Most ADHD Thing' serves to raise ADHD Awareness with humour, allowing us to laugh at the ridiculous situations...2023-12-3150 min
ADHDAFF***k Christmas! With Mrs AuDHDHelping me close Season 2 with a bang is Sam Brown of the ADHD Adults Podcast & charity ADHDadultuk, AKA Mrs ADHD!I wonder if Sam will change her name to Mrs AuDHD?I'm so grateful to The ADHD Adults for their support of ADHDAF & all of the amazing work Sam, her husband James & Alex do!Can't wait to see Sam at the Birmingham event & her & James at the London show & all of you coming to ALL XMAS EVENTS Sam shares insights into being both Autistic & ADHD,& a very different take on self love.This legendary lady gives Christmas the finger...2023-12-031h 11
ADHDAFRiyadh Khalaf: ADHD, Meds Shortage Support & Digital DetoxI'm made up to share this impromptu and chaotic blether with my new BFF! ;) I was introduced to the wonderful work of Celebrity Masterchef winner, Author and BBC Morning Live Superstar Riyadh Khalaf when @ADHDFatherUK tagged me in his amazing support video for those of us struggling to access ADHD Medication. I was immediately enamoured, and slid into his DMs to try and get him on... just a couple of hours later we recorded this chinwag filled with 'humanity, heart & humour'. Anyone else with me on the overfamiliarity thing? Perhaps we actually are besties an...2023-11-281h 07
ADHDAFADHD Curious with Lu in Lu Land'OH HI MOTHERF*&%ERS!' Sorry,couldn't resist using Lu's catchphrase! :) All aboard 'Susie',the leopard print bus for Lou Featherstone's SELF LOVE REVOLUTION!@luinluland,52 is an accidental middle aged influencer dedicated to empowering women to find their confidence.The perfect 1st guest as I find my way solo whilst drowning in RSD (Really Shit Daydreams!) A lady so legendary,it's hard to imagine she once stole from her employer & husband to fund a shopping addiction which contributed to divorce & debt!Having met performing at Flackstock, our ADHDAF Bingo sparked Lu's ADHD Curiosity;leading to life finally making...2023-11-141h 13
ADHDAFI am ADHD AF but WTF do I do now?!The title of the 1st ever episode of ADHDAF is 'We are ADHDAF but who TF are we?' This new chapter of me (Laura) flying solo is a homage,& probably even worse sound quality and editing!Ironically,in trying to raise RSD Awareness,I've suffered the worst RSD of my life & nearly didn't release this!This is a transitional episode;I'm not quite there yet...next week's will have a guest & structure,I'll have a mic & hopefully an editor!But this is imperfect action for ADHD Awareness & authenticity.I've never edited a podcast & am hearing impaired,so strap...2023-11-101h 07
ADHDAFI am ADHD AF but WTF do I do now?!The title of the 1st ep of ADHDAF is 'We are ADHDAF but who TF are we?' This new chapter of me (Laura) flying solo is a homage & probably even worse sound quality/editing!Ironically,in raising RSD Awareness,I've suffered the worst RSD of my life & nearly didn't release this!This is a transitional episode;I'm not quite there yet...next week's will have a guest/structure/a mic/editor (hopefully!)But this is imperfect action-ADHD Awareness & authenticity.I've never edited a podcast & am hearing impaired,so strap yourselves in!:)This impromptu chaos is 'The Most ADHD...2023-11-061h 07
ADHDAFS2.Ep9: B2B - Kate Moryoussef Collaboration & ADHDAF Day SpecialFor our penultimate episode of ADHD Awareness Month & as Co-hosts; we talk #ADHDAFDay - which saw the launch of our Make it Count Campaign and we collaborate in back to back podswap interviews with Kate Moreyoussef; who will be sharing her interview of us on her amazing ADHD Women’s Wellbeing Podcast on Thursday 26th Oct.ADHD lifestyle & wellbeing coach & EFT practitioner, mum of four, and fellow ADHDer Kate is passionate about harnessing our wellbeing to work alongside our brains and enhance our lives as women with ADHD. Kate shares her ADHD Safari & pearls with us in th...2023-10-241h 10
ADHDAFS2.Ep8: Davinia Taylor - ADHD, Bravery & BiohackingThe most ADHD thing we've done: release this episode unfinished!We did tell you we have ADHD!:) What's even funnier...Davinia Taylor!No words for how much we LOVE this absolute powerhouse!We're so grateful to the 2X Sunday Times besteller for sharing her ADHD Safari,owning her too-muchness with us,& welcoming us to the world of Hormone Hacking.She's generously gifted our listeners 10% off her magic white powder!;)TAP HERE for her incredible Willpowder products with an ADHDAF discount. At a time of global ADHD medication shortage,this is the perfect blether to find alternatives to support your...2023-10-171h 28
ADHDAFS2.Ep7: ADHD Hacks with 'Life Actuator' Eric WhittingtonDespite a catastrophic week;dedicated to making this ADHD Awareness Month Count,we do our best to share important information to help the ADHD Community.Including:inside info from an NHS professional on the national medication shortage,details of the MAKE IT COUNT Campaign & ADHDAF Day,before a blether with 1 of the biggest & best ADHD Content Creators:Eric @lifeactuator!What happens in Vegas doesn't stay in Vegas!LEGENDARY Eric records insightful ADHD videos from his home in 'Sin City' to raise awareness & share hacks,culminating a gargantuan following the world over in just 1 year!We are so grateful...2023-10-101h 30
ADHDAFS2.Ep6: Amy Polly - ADHD Awareness Month, Motherhood & MindfulnessIt's ADHD Awareness Month & there's a LOT that needs to be said!With a medication shortage,the Access Denied ND & our own MAKE IT COUNT Campaigns & important awareness to raise in our own community. Thank goodness for:Mindfulness Teacher/MentalHealth Speaker/Neurodiversity Advocate Amy Polly, teaching us to 'GRAB LIFE BY THE TITS!' & we've some EXCITING ANNOUNCEMENTS!Alongside sharing her ADHD Safari,struggles with Motherhood & Mental Health, Amy educates us about Mindfulness.This inspirational LEGEND implores us to:BE CURIOUS, BE PLAYFUL, BE YOU!Thank you so much Amy,can't wait to see you IRL very s...2023-10-031h 31
ADHDAFS2.Ep6: Amy Polly - ADHD Awareness Month, Motherhood & MindfulnessIt's ADHD Awareness Month & there's a LOT that needs to be said!With a medication shortage,the Access Denied ND & our own MAKE IT COUNT Campaigns & important awareness to raise in our own community. Thank goodness for:Mindfulness Teacher/MentalHealth Speaker/Neurodiversity Advocate Amy Polly, teaching us to 'GRAB LIFE BY THE TITS!' & we've some EXCITING ANNOUNCEMENTS!Alongside sharing her ADHD Safari,struggles with Motherhood & Mental Health, Amy educates us about Mindfulness.This inspirational LEGEND implores us to:BE CURIOUS, BE PLAYFUL, BE YOU!Thank you so much Amy,can't wait to see you IRL very s...2023-10-031h 40
ADHDAFS2.Ep5: Self-Diagnosed AuDHD at 70 - Kit WaringHaving been immediately enamoured by an email from legendary listener Kit, we felt desperate to share her story of discovering ADHD & Autism at 69. Now Self-Diagnosed at 70 years old - almost twice the age that we were both ‘late’ diagnosed.At Kit’s stage of life,the greater possibility of ADHD being mistaken for Dementia is a further barrier to receiving answers & support.At this time Kit is not seeking medical diagnosis. One more time for the people in the back…SELF-DIAGNOSIS IS VALID. Kit has developed the coping strategy of People Avoidance due to debilitating Rejectio...2023-09-2656 min
ADHDAFS2.Ep4:Rach Idowu - ADHD,Intersectionality,Work & CommunicationSO excited to be joined by Rach Idowu for this very special episode!Featured in NY Times,BBC,Stylist & more;late diagnosed ADHD LEGEND works tirelessly to raise ADHD Awareness with her informative content.She created ADHD Flashcards to help identify the symptoms.Rach gave us so many pearls in this blether!Including:ADHD and Intersectionality-People from working class backgrounds and ethnic minorities are left out of a lot of the conversation and research on ADHD. Impacts can be even more detrimental to those who may not have the financial support and support f...2023-09-191h 06
ADHDAFS2.Ep3:ADHD Love, Self-Harm & Addiction Recovery with Rox & RichThanks to ADHD LOVE Couple Rox & Rich for this insightful & inspirational Blether.With 2 legendary guests,this episode is longer than usual as it would’ve been a disservice to listeners to cut any out!The couple are on a shame eradication mission,discussing the hard stuff to help others on their safari!TW: Contains swearing, mentions of sexual abuse, alcoholism, drug use, self harm, binge eating, sex addiction, gambling, family estrangement, ableism, ADHD deniers, emotional abuse. If you are struggling with any of the topics covered, you are not alone.There is help out there so please reach ou...2023-09-121h 45
ADHDAFS2.Ep2:Cate Osborn (Catieosaurus) - AuDHD, Sex Dungeons & DragonsNo, that's not a grammatical error in the title, the LEGENDARY Catieosaurus 'works in both kinds of Dungeons!' :) This VERY special blether features possibly the best 'Most ADHD Thing' of ALL TIME! Our favourite Pirate Wench Cate Osborn is a certified Sex Educator with late diagnosed ADHD, who is also currently seeking a diagnosis for Autism. A mental health advocate, full-time Content Creator, Co-host of Infinite Quest Podcast, Professional Streamer and TTRPG Influencer. Alongside sharing her struggles with conflicting sides to her brain, 'inside her there are two wolves!'; she focusses on ADHD Ad...2023-09-051h 17
ADHDAFS2.Ep1:Dr Nighat Arif - ADHD, Hormones & PerimenopauseWE'RE BACK!Kicking of Season 2 with a VERY special Guest:Women's Health Expert & Resident Dr of BBC Breakfast & ITV's This Morning: Dr Nighat Arif . MASSIVE THANK YOU to this legendary lady for explaining the relationship between Hormones & ADHD & educating us about Perimenopause, Menopause & Endometriosis. She also shares her experience as a Dyslexic GP, & sheds light on the ADHD Diagnosis Crisis & the misogyny in medicine she works tirelessly to eradicate. Dr Nighat Arif's knowledge has been comprised into an INCREDIBLE book, appropriately named THE KNOWLEDGE: Your guide to female health – from menstruation to the menopause. 'A life-saving book for...2023-08-291h 16