Autism Central Podcast

By Autism Central

Real stories and honest conversations, we bring together autistic people and the people who love, support, and care for autistic people of all ages and backgrounds to explore every aspect of life. Autism Central is the national peer education programme for families and support networks of autistic people in England, the programme is delivered by Anna Freud and commissioned by the NHS. Through education, coaching, and connection, we offer resources, webinars, one-to-one peer support, and community events that centre lived experience and build real understanding www.autismcentral.nhs.uk

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Friday · 52 min
Eating differently: Autism, ARFID and food
In this episode Catherine Asta is joined by autistic psychotherapist and registered dietitian Camilla Ferraro to explore autism, ARFID and our relationship with food. Drawing on her professional expertise, alongside her own lived experience, Camilla explores why autistic eating differences are so often misunderstood and why what can look like "picky eating" from the outside can be something much more complex. Together they explore ARFID (Avoidant Restrictive Food Intake Disorder) and the differences between food preferences, sensory-based eating differences and eating difficulties that can have a significant impact on someone’s health, wellbeing and everyday life. They discuss the role of sensory processing, distress, executive functioning and the eating environment, as well as the shame and judgement many autistic people experience around what, when and how they eat. The conversation also looks at how parents, carers and professionals can better support autistic people around food by moving away from pressure, forcing and rigid expectations and towards curiosity, choice and agency. And they explore why feeling safe is so important when it comes to eating, the value of understanding individual sensory preferences and why sometimes seemingly small adjustments to mealtimes can make a meaningful difference. Camilla reminds us that when we remove judgement and become curious about what someone’s eating differences are communicating, we can begin to build a safer and more positive relationship with food. What’s on at Autism Central? Explore the ⁠⁠⁠⁠Autism Central website⁠⁠⁠⁠ for FREE NHS-funded 1:1 coaching sessions, events and resources for families of autistic people in England and their support networks. Subscribe to our ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠FREE newsletter⁠⁠ Connect with Camilla ⁠Website⁠ ⁠Instagram⁠ Connect with Catherine Email: hellocatherineasta@gmail.com Website I Instagram I Art | The Late Discovered Club | Books: Rediscovered and Still Living
August 13 · 47 min
Autism, culture and breaking the silence
Autism, Culture and Breaking the Silence In this episode Catherine Asta is joined by AuDHD advocate, mother, researcher and founder of Chinese Autism, Hazel Lim, to explore autism, culture and the experiences of families navigating neurodivergence within the Chinese community. Drawing on her own lived experience as an AuDHD mother of three neurodivergent children, Hazel reflects on how her journey led her to create spaces where families can talk openly, find understanding and feel less alone. Together they explore the cultural stigma and silence that can surround autism within Chinese communities and the additional barriers faced by families from minority and migrant communities. Along with the importance of why language support needs to be combined with cultural understanding and neuroaffirming practice to build genuine trust between families and services. This is a powerful conversation about intersectionality, advocacy and the courage it takes to break silence. Hazel reminds us how with greater understanding, culturally informed support and communities willing to listen, families can move away from shame and towards acceptance, confidence and the freedom to embrace difference. What’s on at Autism Central? Explore the ⁠⁠⁠⁠Autism Central website⁠⁠⁠⁠ for FREE NHS-funded 1:1 coaching sessions, events and resources for families of autistic people in England and their support networks. Subscribe to our ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠FREE newsletter⁠⁠ Connect with Hazel https://chineseautism.org.uk Connect with Catherine Email: hellocatherineasta@gmail.com Website I Instagram I Art Books: Rediscovered and Still Living
July 31 · 46 min
The intersection of autism and epilepsy
In this episode Catherine Asta is joined by writer, birthkeeper and filmmaker Lucy Baena to explore the often-overlooked intersection of autism and epilepsy. Drawing on her lived experience as an autistic and epileptic woman, Lucy shares a deeply personal account of growing up with epilepsy, receiving a late autism diagnosis at 38, and how understanding both has transformed the way she understands herself. Together they discuss the hidden realities of living with epilepsy beyond seizures, including stigma, disclosure, trauma and the emotional impact of navigating a world that often misunderstands invisible disabilities. Lucy reflects on the challenges of being dismissed by professionals, the overlap between epilepsy and autistic experiences such as shutdowns, meltdowns and burnout, and why listening to lived experience is essential to providing person-centred care. The conversation also explores practical ways families, friends and professionals can offer meaningful support and Lucy reflects on how self-compassion has become life-changing, why disability does not diminish the possibility of a joyful and meaningful life. What’s on at Autism Central? Explore the ⁠⁠⁠Autism Central website⁠⁠⁠ for FREE NHS-funded 1:1 coaching sessions, events and resources for families of autistic people in England and their support networks. Subscribe to our ⁠⁠⁠⁠FREE newsletter⁠⁠ Connect with Lucy ⁠Instagram ⁠ Connect with Catherine Email: hellocatherineasta@gmail.com Website I Instagram I Art Books: Rediscovered and Still Living
July 17 · 51 min
Autism, strengths-based approaches and everyday tools for life
In this episode of the Autism Central Podcast, Catherine Asta is joined by AuDHD coach, researcher and positive psychology practitioner Dr Rebecca Jackson to explore practical strategies and everyday tools for daily living. Drawing on both her lived experience and her work supporting neurodivergent adults, she shares why understanding yourself is the foundation for finding tools and approaches that genuinely work. Together they explore the power of taking a strengths-based approach to neurodivergence, discussing why recognising what comes naturally can improve wellbeing, reduce burnout and help people build lives that feel more aligned with who they really are. The conversation also explores practical tools and technology that can support daily living, from productivity systems and AI to sensory support, energy management and simple planning strategies. They discuss why there is no one-size-fits-all solution, how to experiment with different approaches without judgement, and why the most effective support is the one that works with your brain rather than against it. Whether you're autistic, ADHD, AuDHD or supporting someone who is, this episode offers practical ideas emphasizing self-awareness, realistic strategies and the importance of permission and self-compassion. What’s on at Autism Central? Explore the ⁠⁠Autism Central website⁠⁠ for FREE NHS-funded 1:1 coaching sessions, events and resources for families of autistic people in England and their support networks. Subscribe to our ⁠⁠⁠FREE newsletter⁠⁠ Connect with Dr Rebecca Jackson LinkedIn Website Instagram Connect with Catherine Email: hellocatherineasta@gmail.com Website I Instagram I Art Books: Rediscovered and Still Living
July 3 · 41 min
Autistic and expecting: Pregnancy, birth and becoming a parent
In this episode Catherine Asta is joined by AuDHD psychotherapist, author and researcher Alexis Quinn to explore what pregnancy, birth and early parenthood can look like for autistic people. Drawing on both her lived experience and the research behind her book Autistic and Expecting, Alexis reflects on how understanding her own neurodivergence transformed her experience of becoming a parent and why autism cannot be separated from the journey into parenthood. Together they discuss the unique challenges autistic people can face throughout pregnancy, from sensory changes and communication differences to navigating healthcare appointments, uncertainty and the emotional impact of becoming a parent. Alexis shares why understanding your own sensory and communication needs before birth can make a significant difference and explains how planning ahead can help create a more positive and empowering experience. The conversation explores what autism-inclusive maternity care really looks like, including reasonable adjustments, birth rights, continuity of care and the importance of being listened to without judgement. Catherine and Alexis also discuss practical tools such as maternity passports, preparing for different birth scenarios and building supportive relationships with healthcare professionals and family members throughout pregnancy and beyond. This is a much needed conversation about informed choice and creating birth experiences where autistic parents feel seen, understood and supported. Alexis reminds us that while pregnancy and birth can feel overwhelming and unpredictable, with the right adjustments, knowledge and support, autistic people can have positive, transformative experiences of becoming parents. What’s on at Autism Central? Explore the ⁠Autism Central website⁠ for FREE NHS-funded 1:1 coaching sessions, events and resources. Subscribe to our ⁠⁠FREE newsletter⁠⁠ Episode Reference Links: ⁠Birth Rights⁠ ⁠Autistic Parents⁠ Connect with Alexis: https://alexisquinn.co.uk/ Books: UNbroken Autistic and Expecting Connect with Catherine Email: hellocatherineasta@gmail.com Website I Instagram I Art Books: Rediscovered and Still Living
June 19 · 58 min
Love needs no words: Autism and fatherhood
In this episode Catherine Asta is joined by award-winning autism advocate, author and founder of "Stories About Autism", James Hunt, for a heartfelt conversation about raising autistic children as they move from childhood into adulthood. Drawing on nearly two decades of lived experience parenting his two non-speaking autistic sons, James reflects on how his understanding of autism, communication and fatherhood has evolved over time. Together they explore the hopes and uncertainties that many families face as autistic young people transition into adulthood. James shares the realities of preparing for life beyond school, balancing hope with understandable fears about future support, independence and long-term care, while explaining why staying present has become one of the most valuable lessons he has learned as a parent. The conversation shines a light on communication beyond spoken language, from body language and AAC as well as the realities of family life, including sleep deprivation, isolation, building community and the emotional impact of caring. They reflect on why finding other families who truly understand can make such a difference, and how peer support helps parents navigate both the challenges and the joy of raising autistic children. This is a hopeful conversation about finding acceptance, embracing a different path, celebrating the "inchstones" alongside the milestones and discovering that a meaningful life is often found in the moments you never expected. James reminds us that while the future feels scary and uncertain, there is also joy, connection and hope to be found here in the present. What’s on at Autism Central? Subscribe to our FREE newsletter Explore the Autism Central website for FREE NHS-funded 1:1 coaching sessions, events and resources. Connect with James ⁠Instagram⁠ Jame’s Book: ⁠Love Needs No Words⁠ Connect with Catherine Email: hellocatherineasta@gmail.com Website I Instagram I Art Books: Rediscovered and Still Living
June 8 · 1 hr 3 min
Autism and relationship breakdown: The legal basics
In this episode of the Autism Central Podcast, Catherine Asta is joined by family law solicitor and neuroinclusion advocate Hannah Saxe to explore the complex realities of relationship breakdown, divorce and co-parenting through an autistic and neurodivergent lens. Drawing on both her professional expertise and lived experience as a late-diagnosed AuDHD woman and parent of two neurodivergent children, Hannah shares practical guidance for autistic people, parents and carers navigating separation and family law. Together they discuss the legal basics of divorce, finances, child arrangements and co-parenting, while demystifying a family justice system that can often feel overwhelming and inaccessible. Hannah explains the differences between married and unmarried couples, the growing role of mediation and other out-of-court options, and why seeking the right advice early can make a significant difference. The conversation also explores the heightened challenges many autistic and neurodivergent people face during relationship breakdown, including burnout, decision fatigue, financial worries and the increased risk of experiencing coercive control or domestic abuse. Hannah shares practical strategies for building a support network, accessing advice and creating boundaries that protect both parents and children during difficult transitions. Catherine and Hannah discuss the importance of supporting autistic and neurodivergent children through separation, highlighting the value of structure, predictability, communication and consistent approaches across households. They also examine what neuroaffirming support looks like within the family justice system and how new guidance is helping professionals better understand and accommodate neurodivergent needs. Hannah offers reassurance that, even in the most challenging circumstances, there are pathways forward and growing recognition that neurodivergent people deserve systems that work with them, not against them. What’s on at Autism Central? Subscribe to our FREE newsletter Explore our FREE support - 1:1 sessions, blogs, events Connect with Hannah brabners.com Connect with Catherine Email: hellocatherineasta@gmail.com Website Instagram Books: Rediscovered and Still Living Art
May 22 · 50 min
Dyspraxia and Autism
In this first episode of S5, Catherine Asta is joined by award winning advocate Tumi Sotire, a British-born Nigerian with dyspraxia and founder of The Black Dyspraxic, a platform dedicated to championing intersectionality within neurodiversity. Together they unpack common misconceptions about dyspraxia, why it is often misunderstood as ‘just clumsiness’ and how it can affect everything from movement and coordination to organisation, memory, processing and confidence. Tumi shares his own experience of growing up as a Black dyspraxic child, reflecting on diagnosis, bullying, education and the importance of understanding neurodivergence through an intersectional lens. The conversation also explores the hidden emotional and financial costs of dyspraxia, along with the barriers many families face in accessing support. Catherine and Tumi discuss the overlap between dyspraxia and autism, including the reality that dyspraxia is a common co-occurring condition for autistic people. They also explore practical supports and adjustments, from occupational therapy and assistive technology to breaking tasks down into manageable steps and recognising individual strengths. This is a hopeful conversation about self-understanding, advocacy and creating environments where neurodivergent people feel supported to thrive. Tumi reflects on the importance of recognising strengths alongside struggles and why helping children believe in what is possible can make a lifelong difference. What’s on at Autism Central? Subscribe to our FREE newsletter⁠⁠ Explore our FREE support, funded by NHS England - 1:1 coaching, online events and resources Connect with Tumi www.theblackdyspraxic.com Instagram Connect with Catherine Website Instagram Books: Rediscovered and Still Living
S4 · E10
May 8 · 51 min
The power of peer support
In this final episode of Season Four of the Autism Central Podcast, Catherine Asta is joined by Emma Kluibenschadl, a passionate advocate, experienced professional and National Group Learning Facilitator Associate with Anna Freud who shares how Autism Central is creating a revolutionary space where families find community, understanding and practical support to help them thrive. Emma shares a behind the scenes look at what Autism Central offers autistic people, parents, carers and families - from live educational webinars and reflective sessions to one-to-one peer support designed to help people feel less alone. Together, Catherine and Emma explore the emotional realities of parenting and supporting neurodivergent children and young people, including the isolation many families experience, the grief and uncertainty that can come with diagnosis journeys, and the pressure parents often feel to ‘get it right’ in systems that are not built for autistic people. The conversation focuses on the importance of neuroaffirming support, self-care through a neurodivergent lens and creating safe spaces where parents feel heard without judgement - as well as how small shifts in understanding can transform family life. Emma also talks about her son Stefan - who she sadly lost to suicide in March 2022 - and the legacy she and her husband Tristan continue through their work supporting neurodivergent young people and families. Together, they discuss the power of lived experience, compassionate connection and peer support and why being seen, heard and understood can make such a profound difference to autistic people and the people who love and support them. What’s on at Autism Central? Subscribe to our ⁠FREE newsletter⁠ Explore our ⁠FREE support⁠ - 1:1 sessions, blogs, events Connect with Catherine ⁠Website⁠ ⁠Instagram ⁠ Books: ⁠Rediscovered⁠ and ⁠Still Living⁠
April 24 · 49 min
Demystifying adult autism assessments with psychiatrist Dr Alison Lennox
In this episode, Catherine Asta is joined by Dr Alison Lennox, a Consultant Neurodevelopmental Psychiatrist to demystify the adult autism assessment process and explore what a good assessment should really offer. Together they unpack common misconceptions about diagnosis along with the fear and uncertainty many people carry into the process. As one of only a few UK psychiatrists working exclusively in adult autism, Alison shares her perspective on what a comprehensive assessment can involve. She reflects on how assessments can be shaped around the individual, why there is no single “gold standard” pathway and how safety, trust and curiosity are central to helping people feel seen and understood. The conversation also explores the realities of masking, invalidation and the emotional weight of seeking an assessment after years of misunderstanding or self-doubt. Catherine and Alison discuss the impact of family dynamics, the challenges of asking others to contribute to the process and the importance of creating space for people to bring their own notes and evidence in whatever form feels right to them. This episode is an honest and compassionate discussion about what an autism assessment can mean, not as an endpoint, but as the beginning of making sense of yourself with greater clarity and self-compassion. Alison also reflects on what happens after assessment, the limits of post-diagnostic support, the need for thoughtful, individualised reports and why understanding autism alongside trauma and mental health requires care, nuance and humanity. What’s on at Autism Central? Subscribe to our FREE newsletter Explore our FREE support - 1:1 sessions, blogs, events Connect with Dr Alison Lennox https://www.dralisonlennox.com/ Connect with Catherine Website Instagram Books: Rediscovered and Still Living
April 10 · 49 min
Hyperfocused on health with Dr Helen Lawal
In this episode, Catherine Asta is joined by Dr Helen Lawal to explore the realities of work, identity and wellbeing as a neurodivergent woman navigating a demanding career. Together they reflect on Helen’s journey through medicine, from her early inspiration to become a doctor to the barriers she faced before understanding her ADHD and autism, and how that self-knowledge transformed the way she works and lives. Late-discovered ADHD and autistic, she shares how years of masking, pushing through and internalising struggle led to burnout, low self-esteem and physical and mental health challenges, and how diagnosis helped her reframe those experiences with compassion rather than shame. The conversation explores the practical realities of working life, including sensory overwhelm, information processing, travel, long shifts, memory demands and the importance of reasonable adjustments. Catherine and Helen also discuss the power of understanding strengths, recognising what support is needed and letting go of career expectations that no longer fit. At the heart of this episode is a hopeful and honest discussion about what helps when life feels overwhelming. Helen shares the practices that support her most, from movement and breath to time in nature, rest and nourishing food, and reflects on how parents and carers can begin to think ahead about supporting young neurodivergent people into adulthood, education and work. What’s on at Autism Central? Subscribe to our FREE newsletter Explore our FREE support - 1:1 sessions, blogs, events Connect with Dr Helen www.drhelenlawal.com Connect with Catherine Website Instagram Books - Rediscovered and Still Living
March 27 · 47 min
When the wheels fall off: Menopause and autism / ADHD
In this episode, Catherine Asta is joined by Sophie Cartledge to explore the powerful intersection of perimenopause and late-discovered autism and ADHD. Together they discuss why many autistic and ADHD women describe perimenopause as the point where ‘the wheels fell off’ and how hormonal shifts can amplify sensory sensitivities, emotional regulation challenges and burnout. Late-discovered autistic and ADHD at 44, Sophie speaks openly about how this collision is one of the most misunderstood and unsupported phases of a woman’s life, often leading to burnout, misdiagnosis and workplace exclusion. They reflect on the profound identity shift that can happen when decades of masking are no longer sustainable and how perimenopause can act as a catalyst for unmasking, self-advocacy and redefining what safety and wellbeing look like. The conversation also highlights gaps in healthcare and workplace understanding, the importance of tracking symptoms and the role of peer support in reducing isolation. At the heart of this episode is a compassionate discussion about rebuilding self-trust, reframing needs as preferences and finding practical ways to navigate this often misunderstood stage of life. Sophie shares the mindset shifts and small accommodations that have helped her move towards a more sustainable, authentic way of living. This episode is for you if: - You’re navigating perimenopause/menopause and noticing changes in your sensory sensitivities, emotions and/or capacity. - You’re late-discovered autistic or ADHD and experiencing unmasking or a shift in identity. - You’re feeling dismissed, misunderstood or unsure how to advocate for yourself in healthcare or work. - You’re looking for validation, practical strategies and reassurance that you’re not alone in this experience. What’s on at Autism Central? Subscribe to our FREE newsletter Explore our FREE support - 1:1 sessions, blogs, events Connect with Sophie www.hormonesontheblink.com Connect with Catherine Website Instagram Book
March 13 · 49 min
When Dad is neurodivergent
In this episode, Mike and Phil, both mental health nurses and late-diagnosed autistic and ADHD, join Catherine Asta to explore their experiences of fatherhood. They speak about feeling unseen in schools and workplaces, confronting internalised rejection and navigating the expectations placed on fathers about how they ‘should’ show up. Through their own personal reflections, they share the journey of self-discovery that followed their diagnoses alongside their children, and the importance of finding community along the way. At the heart of this conversation is the creation of NADS (Neuroaffirming Dads and Dudes) a local peer support space created by Mike designed specifically for neurodivergent fathers. Mike and Phil discuss how spaces like these allow men to show up as their authentic selves, build connection and transform shame and isolation into strength and solidarity. In this episode we explore: - The challenges they have both faced in parenting, workplaces, and the SEND space. - How societal expectations and stigma can impact fathers navigating autism and ADHD. - The unique strengths neurodivergence brings to their parenting. - Why peer support spaces can be life-changing for fathers. - Tips for dads who want to get more involved in the SEND space. - Practical ways schools, services, and workplaces can better support neurodivergent dads and families. Listener Care: The views shared are personal perspectives from the guests based on their lived experiences. Their reflections highlight some of the barriers they have faced when engaging with schools and support spaces. Along with practical things that dads can do to become more involved in the SEND space, while also recognising the important role many mums and carers already play in advocating for their children. We recognise that many families and professionals are working hard to support children with SEND and that experiences may vary widely. We invite listeners to approach this conversation with curiosity and care. What’s on at Autism Central? Subscribe to our FREE newsletter Explore our FREE support - 1:1 sessions, blogs, events Connect with Catherine Website Instagram Book
February 27 · 52 min
The Power of Self-Advocacy
In this episode, Catherine Asta is joined by Heidi and Theo, a single mother and her only son from Wakefield in West Yorkshire, for a powerful and hopeful conversation about autistic burnout, rebuilding confidence, and the power of self-advocacy. When Theo was 15, he crashed out of school in what was later understood as significant autistic burnout. What followed were five years of navigating complex systems, challenging decisions, and fighting for his right to an education that truly met his needs. During that time, both Heidi and Theo were diagnosed as autistic and ADHD; a pivotal shift that reframed their past and reshaped their future. Now studying zoo management at university, Theo shares how he chose where to go based not on course appeal or location, but on the level of support available. Supported by Disabled Students’ Allowance and his assistance dog, Bertie, whom they describe as life-changing and life-saving, Theo reflects on building self-knowledge, independence, and the confidence to advocate for what he needs. Theo speaks openly about learning to understand his nervous system, recognising his limits, and communicating them clearly, skills that have become foundational to both his wellbeing and his success. Heidi speaks candidly about the emotional complexity of sending your neurodivergent child to a university that isn’t close to home, and why trust, safety, and the right support structures matter. Together, they explore transition, sensory worlds, and the importance of asking the right questions when navigating education systems. Heidi also shares practical strategies for parents and carers; how to challenge decisions constructively, how to prioritise safety, and how modelling honesty and resilience helps young people develop their own voice. This episode offers practical insight for families supporting neurodivergent young people, alongside an honest reflection on resilience, overcoming barriers and hope. It’s a conversation about the emotional and practical considerations of transitioning to university, about building self-advocacy skills early, and about choosing the right support over the “right” course, and what can happen when someone is finally given the space and understanding to come back to themselves. What’s on at Autism Central? Subscribe to our FREE newsletter Explore our FREE support - 1:1 sessions, blogs, events Connect with Catherine Website Instagram Book
S4 · E4
February 13 · 46 min
Behind the mask
Listener note: We want to let listeners know that this episode includes discussion of trauma, suicidal ideation, and mental health crisis. Please listen in a way that feels supportive for you. In this episode, Catherine Asta is joined by Brian Haines for a deeply reflective conversation about the often-unseen mental health crises faced by late-diagnosed autistic adults, accumulated trauma, and the life-changing power of creativity - offering hope for anyone feeling unheard or misunderstood. Diagnosed as autistic at 61, Brian shares how his NHS diagnosis brought clarity to a lifetime of feeling “peculiar,” marginalised, and out of step with the social world. What followed was not relief, but a period of profound unravelling - burnout, mental health crisis, and standing, as he describes it, at the edge of the abyss. From that darkness, poetry emerged. Brian speaks openly about how writing became his emotional scaffolding when formal therapeutic support fell short - a way to structure overwhelming thoughts, process rage and loneliness, and give voice to what had long been hidden behind the mask. For someone who struggles with the spontaneity of social communication, poetry offers rhythm, certainty, and a space where his words can finally be heard, at his pace. Together they explore masking, marginalisation, suicidal ideation, autistic burnout, and the vulnerability of sharing creative work in a world that has not always felt safe. Brian reflects on isolation and the “crevasse” of autistic loneliness, and how creative expression - through poems such as Behind the Mask - has slowly built belonging, connection, and community. Brian also shares practical, gentle steps on how to begin your own creative journey, or support someone you care for, and why simply creating for yourself is enough to start. It’s a powerful episode about voice, survival, and the courage to step out from behind the mask - a reminder that creativity can become both scaffold and bridge to belonging. Autism Central Subscribe to our FREE newsletter Explore our FREE support - 1:1 sessions, group coaching, online events and resources Connect with Brian Instagram: @autistically61 YouTube: ⁠https://m.youtube.com/@brianhaines7922⁠ Connect with Catherine Website Instagram Book
January 30 · 46 min
Waves of Compassion
Listener note: We want to let listeners know that this episode includes discussion of grief and the loss of a child. Please listen in a way that feels supportive for you. In this episode, Catherine Asta is joined by Sue Lansbury for a deeply moving and compassionate conversation about late autism discovery, grief, creativity, and aging as an autistic woman in a world that often overlooks older women, especially autistic older women. Diagnosed as autistic at the age of 68, Sue reflects on a lifetime shaped by confusion, overwhelm, masking, and the huge personal cost of pushing through. She shares how receiving her diagnosis brought both relief and the slow, ongoing work of rediscovering herself - reconnecting with her youngest self through art, making, and a lifelong relationship with the natural world. Sue speaks powerfully about burnout, invisibility, and the risks faced by autistic people whose needs remain undiscovered later in life. She also reflects with great tenderness on the death of her son Jay - a gifted, fearless artist - and how art, ritual, and the changing seasons have helped her hold grief, love, and memory together. Throughout the conversation, Sue offers “waves of compassion” - for herself, for parents and carers navigating guilt around late discovery, and for autistic people and families living within systems that still struggle to understand and support them. She introduces the idea of creating a personal “self-portrait” to capture needs, sensitivities, and ways of being, as a way of protecting dignity and wellbeing as we age. Their conversation explores: - Late autism discovery and the emotional cost of masking - Burnout, aging, and the invisibility of older autistic women - Grief, loss, and autistic experiences of profound change - Art as a process for expression and healing when words aren’t enough - Compassion over guilt for families facing late discovery - Advocacy, legacy, and why a more diverse society benefits everyone It’s a wise and hopeful episode about grief and growth, creativity and care, and the importance of meeting ourselves - and each other - with compassion at every stage of life. Autism Central Subscribe to our FREE newsletter Explore our FREE support - 1:1 sessions, blogs, events Connect with Catherine Website Instagram Book
January 16 · 50 min
Changing my world
TRIGGER WARNING: This podcast episode mentions suicidal ideation. In this episode, Catherine is joined by Jo Feaster for an honest and deeply reflective conversation about lived experience, identity, and what it can mean to finally make sense of yourself later in life as an autistic and bipolar woman, along with the small, real life supports and accommodations that help power self-acceptance, build stability and live well, and as Jo says, “help to change my world”. Their conversation explores: - What finally helped Jo feel seen and understood, and the challenges of living with co-occurring conditions alongside being autistic, and the additional stigma associated with them. - The importance of community, belonging, role models and peer support. - The role of writing and advocacy as tools for mental health and challenging societal stigma. - Insights into the dynamics of family support and the impact of personal relationships on mental health. - The transformative power of self-acceptance and the significance of self-care as a parent carer. It’s a compassionate, hopeful and practical episode for anyone navigating late identification, multiple neurodivergence and mental health, and / or supporting a loved one through crisis and recovery. Autism Central Subscribe to our ⁠FREE newsletter⁠ Explore our ⁠FREE support⁠ - 1:1 sessions, group coaching, resources and events Connect with Jo on LinkedIn LinkedIn profile - https://www.linkedin.com/in/joanne-feaster/ LinkedIn Newsletter - Autistic & Bipolar Musings - https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/autistic-bipolar-musings-7239130678460649473/ Connect with Catherine Website: https://www.catherineasta.com Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/catherine.asta Book: https://amzn.eu/d/1MJL4h2 www.catherineasta.com
S4 · E1
Dec 15, 2025 · 38 min
An 8-Year-Old Asks: Autism Conversations with My Mum
Welcome to Season 4 of the Autism Central Podcast, hosted by psychotherapist, podcaster, and author Catherine Asta. To open the season, we’re doing something special. In this episode, Catherine is joined by both of her daughters - Caty and Kristina - for a gentle, insightful mother-daughter conversation that sets the tone for the journey ahead. You’ll first hear from Caty, who not only joins on mic, but also works behind the scenes editing the podcast. Together, they reflect on what it means to create a mother-daughter show, nurturing strengths as a mature student at university, their ‘family eco-system,’ and why this podcast matters to the parents, carers, and supporters who need it most. Then the microphone is handed to Catherine’s youngest daughter, 8-year-old (and three-quarters!) Kristina, stepping into the guest-host role to ask her mum five thoughtful questions about life as an autistic person and parent. Their conversation explores: What it feels like to navigate the world with an autistic and multiply neurodivergent brain Childhood experiences before knowing she was autistic The strengths autism brings The emotional clarity of a late autism discovery What it’s like balancing autistic needs with parenting It’s warm, honest and deeply human - a window into a multiply neurodivergent family committed to kindness, compassion, curiosity, and building a life that works for each of them. This episode offers parents and supporters a rare, real-life insight into autistic experience across generations - and why community, understanding, and the right support matter so much. Connect with Catherine www.catherineasta.com Resources Catherine makes reference to in the episode: Catherine’s book ‘Rediscovered’ and ‘The Late Discovered Club Podcast’ Autism Central Subscribe to our FREE newsletter Explore our FREE support - 1:1 sessions, blogs, events
S3 · E10
Sep 29, 2025 · 50 min
Transitions: Growing Older
Holly chats to autistic researcher Dr. Wenn Lawson aboutgetting older and what this means for autistic people. Find out more about our programme for parents and carers ofautistic people at autismcentral.org.uk Some of our podcast episodes contain specialist terms youmay be unfamiliar with. We’ve put together a glossary toexplain some of the terms mentioned. The Autism Central Podcast is produced by Autism Central andis the copyright of NHS England. All rights reserved. More content can be found on our YouTube channel.
S3 · E9
Sep 29, 2025 · 56 min
Transitions: Becoming a Mother
Holly talks to autistic mothers Lynette Morgan and Sophia Abdel about their experiences in pregnancy and motherhood. Links for this episode: Maternity Autism Research Group Find out more about our programme for parents and carers of autistic people at autismcentral.org.uk Some of our podcast episodes contain specialist terms you may be unfamiliar with. We’ve put together a glossary to explain some of the terms mentioned. The Autism Central Podcast is produced by Autism Central and is the copyright of NHS England. All rights reserved. More content can be found on the Autism Central YouTube channel.

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