Explore every episode of the podcast The Untypical Parent™ Podcast
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| When The Typical 9-5 Employment Doesn't Fit Your Family | 29 Apr 2025 | 00:57:05 | |
Enjoyed the episode, got a suggestion or a question send me a text What happens when your perfectly planned approach to parenting collides with the unpredictable reality and it doesn't end up fitting the job description! Helen Buzdugan knows this territory intimately. As a late-diagnosed ADHDer, careers advisor, and founder of True To You Careers, Helen shares her raw, emotional journey from parenting, discovering not only hers but her children's neurotype, from juggling work and parenting, to burnout and then recovery. Helen brings a unique perspective to the workforce challenges facing parents and carers in neurodivergent households, highlighting the valuable transferable skills parents develop through advocacy, from research abilities to negotiation tactics honed in countless school meetings. Her practical advice includes understanding workplace rights like emergency leave for dependents, separating immediate crisis management from long-term career planning, and building essential support systems. You can find Helen on: Facebook, LinkedIn and her links page I'm Liz, The Untypical OT. I work with parents and carers in additional needs and neurodivergent families to support them with burnout, mental health and well-being. When we support parents, everyone benefits. To connect with me you'll find all my links on Linktree: If you would like to contact me about the podcast please email me at: contact@untypicalparentpodcast.com I'm Liz, The Untypical OT. I support parents and carers in additional needs and neurodivergent families to protect against burnout and go from overwhelmed to more moments of ease. 🔗 To connect with me, you can find all my details on Linktree: | |||
| Parenting, Work, Pressure & Pushing Through: Why Boundaries Are Your Burnout Buffer | 22 Apr 2025 | 00:13:45 | |
Enjoyed the episode, got a suggestion or a question send me a text Welcome to The Untypical OT Talks to Herself—the mini podcast for typically untypical parents! Bite-sized episodes packed with real talk about parenting in additional needs families. No fluff, no judgment—just honest conversations about the stuff that truly matters. 🔗 To connect with Liz, find all the details on her Linktree:https://linktr.ee/the_untypical_ot ☕ If you'd like to support the podcast, you can buy me a coffee here:https://buymeacoffee.com/the.untypical.ot Topics: If you have a request for a particular topic when it comes to parenting in additional needs families, please just drop the podcast an email at contact@untypicalparentpodcast.com I'm Liz, The Untypical OT. I support parents and carers in additional needs and neurodivergent families to protect against burnout and go from overwhelmed to more moments of ease. 🔗 To connect with me, you can find all my details on Linktree: | |||
| The Untypical OT Talks to Herself - Where did it all begin? | 07 Jan 2025 | 00:25:45 | |
Enjoyed the episode, got a suggestion or a question send me a text The Untypical OT Talks to Herself - Where did it all begin? Episode 1 Join Liz, a dyslexic parent and occupational therapist, as she shares her experience of parenting in a neurodiverse family, navigating personal and professional challenges, and supporting parents and carers of children with additional needs. These solo episodes are part of the The Untypical OT Podcast which include inspiring guest interviews, where Liz talks about topics like parental burnout, navigating systems, embracing neurodivergence, and rethinking behaviour. This podcast isn’t about perfection—it’s about real conversations, and practical strategies to help parents feel less alone and more confident in doing things differently. This episode is all about where did The Untypical start. You can find Liz on all the socials check out her Linktree account for all the links here. I'm Liz, The Untypical OT. I support parents and carers in additional needs and neurodivergent families to protect against burnout and go from overwhelmed to more moments of ease. 🔗 To connect with me, you can find all my details on Linktree: | |||
| Don't Judge Me | 31 Dec 2024 | 00:46:05 | |
Enjoyed the episode, got a suggestion or a question send me a text Podcast Series 1: Are You the Perfect Parent? Episode 2: Cheryl Warren from Aperion Training In this episode, we’re excited to welcome Cheryl Warren from Aperion Training. Cheryl brings a wealth of personal and professional insight as she shares her experiences of parenting in a neurodivergent household. She opens up about the challenges and joys of her parenting journey and provides valuable perspectives on how early years settings can build strong partnerships with parents of neurodivergent children. This conversation is filled with heartfelt reflections and practical advice that will resonate with educators, parents, and anyone passionate about creating inclusive spaces. Connect with Cheryl and Aperion Training on social media: Cheryl's Linktree: https://linktr.ee/aperiontraining I'm Liz, The Untypical OT. I support parents and carers in additional needs and neurodivergent families to protect against burnout and go from overwhelmed to more moments of ease. 🔗 To connect with me, you can find all my details on Linktree: | |||
| "It's all about progress not perfection." | 17 Dec 2024 | 00:47:49 | |
Enjoyed the episode, got a suggestion or a question send me a text Podcast Series 1: Are You the Perfect Parent? Episode 1: Badger Education In this episode, we’re joined by Charlotte from Badger Education, who shares her journey of parenting in a neurodivergent household. Charlotte dives into her personal experiences, reflecting on how her parenting has influenced her teaching methods and how her role as an educator has shaped her approach to parenting. Join us as Charlotte offers insights, practical advice, and heartfelt stories that resonate with parents navigating similar paths. Connect with Charlotte and Badger Education on social media: Facebook: Badger Education - Inclusive Support Instagram: @badger.education Charlotte also has two fantastic free resources to support parents and educators: https://badger-education.co.uk/5-Achievable-Adaptations https://badger-education.co.uk/calminthechaosofchristmas I'm Liz, The Untypical OT. I support parents and carers in additional needs and neurodivergent families to protect against burnout and go from overwhelmed to more moments of ease. 🔗 To connect with me, you can find all my details on Linktree: | |||
| Welcome to the The Untypical OT Talks | 03 Dec 2024 | 00:01:08 | |
Enjoyed the episode, got a suggestion or a question send me a text Just a quick welcome and explanation. Series 1 - Are you the perfect parent I'm Liz, The Untypical OT. I support parents and carers in additional needs and neurodivergent families to protect against burnout and go from overwhelmed to more moments of ease. 🔗 To connect with me, you can find all my details on Linktree: | |||
| Escaping the Box Society Built for Our Kids | 15 Apr 2025 | 01:01:27 | |
Enjoyed the episode, got a suggestion or a question send me a text What happens when we stop trying to fit neurodivergent children into a neurotypical world? In this eye-opening conversation, Helen Daniel—author, late-diagnosed neurodivergent, and sensory expert, —challenges everything we've been taught about "perfect parenting" and reveals how societal expectations create unnecessary struggles for neurodivergent families. She dives into the everyday struggles neurodivergent kids face in schools, where traditional methods often don’t work for different sensory styles. Whether a child focuses deeply on one sense or takes in everything at once, both can feel out of place in typical classrooms. This conversation is full of practical insights for parents, teachers, and professionals alike. By understanding sensory needs, we can create better learning environments, support self-advocacy, and build a world that embraces neurodivergence instead of trying to "fix" it. Helen's book Neurosensory Divergence: Autistic Languages: A Roadmap To An Equitable Life For Autistic Children, is available to buy. You can find Helen on her social media platforms: Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn I'm Liz, The Untypical OT. I work with parents and carers in additional needs and neurodivergent families to support them with burnout, mental health and well-being. When we support parents, everyone benefits. To connect with me you'll find all my links on Linktree: If you would like to contact me about the podcast please email me at: Helllo@the-untypical-ot.co.uk I'm Liz, The Untypical OT. I support parents and carers in additional needs and neurodivergent families to protect against burnout and go from overwhelmed to more moments of ease. 🔗 To connect with me, you can find all my details on Linktree: | |||
| Learning To Take A Pause - The Untypical OT Talks To Herself | 08 Apr 2025 | 00:13:13 | |
Enjoyed the episode, got a suggestion or a question send me a text Welcome to The Untypical OT Talks to Herself—the mini podcast for typically untypical parents! Bite-sized episodes packed with real talk about parenting in additional needs families. No fluff, no judgment—just honest conversations about the stuff that truly matters. I'm Liz, The Untypical OT. I support parents and carers in additional needs and neurodivergent families to protect against burnout and go from overwhelmed to more moments of ease. 🔗 To connect with me, you can find all my details on Linktree: | |||
| I Thought I'd Be the Perfect Parent—Reality Had Other Plans! | 25 Mar 2025 | 01:01:34 | |
Enjoyed the episode, got a suggestion or a question send me a text The Untypical OT Talks with Carla Berlin from Carla’s Classroom In this episode, I sit down with the insightful and passionate Carla Berlin, the founder of Carla’s Classroom. We cover so much in our conversation—cultural influences on parenting, the role of step-parents, recognising neurodivergence in children when they are older, and Carla’s own personal experiences of being parented. Carla brings her deep understanding and lived experience to the table, sharing valuable perspectives on how cultural background shapes parenting styles and expectations. We also explore the unique challenges and joys of blended families, diving into the complexities of step-parenting. Expect real talk, powerful insights, and plenty of relatable moments as we navigate these important topics together. 🔗 Connect with Carla on: I’m Liz, The Untypical OT. I work with parents and carers in additional needs and neurodivergent families to support them with burnout, mental health, and well-being. When we support parents, everyone benefits. Don't miss my free video and handout called "Worn Out or Burnt Out"—a guide to help spot the signs of parental burnout. 🔗 To connect with me, you find all my details on Linktree: ☕ If you’d like to support the podcast, you can buy me a coffee here: And if you'd like to contact me about the podcast please email at: hello@the-untypical-ot.co.uk I'm Liz, The Untypical OT. I support parents and carers in additional needs and neurodivergent families to protect against burnout and go from overwhelmed to more moments of ease. 🔗 To connect with me, you can find all my details on Linktree: | |||
| "Outnumbered? Just a bit!" | 11 Mar 2025 | 00:58:10 | |
Enjoyed the episode, got a suggestion or a question send me a text The Untypical OT Talks with Teo from SendWise HubIn this episode, I sit down with the no-nonsense, straight-talking Teo from SendWise Hub to dive into the messy, beautiful, and often chaotic reality of parenting. Teo shares candid moments—when she got it right, when she got it wrong, and why the idea of a "perfect parent" is pure fiction. We talk about the highs, the lows, and everything in between, with plenty of laughs and hard-hitting truths along the way. Expect honesty, wisdom, and a reminder that doing your best is enough.🔗 Connect with Teo on:Facebook: SendWise Hub Instagram: @sendwisehubMy is Liz and I am The Untypical OT. I work with parents and carers in additional needs and neurodivergent families to support them with burnout, mental health and wellbeing. When we support parents everyone benefits. Don't miss my free video and handout called "Worn Out of Burnt Out". A guide to help spot the signs of parental burnout. https://the-untypical-ot.co.uk/worn-out-or-burnt-out🔗 To connect with Liz, find all the details on her Linktree:https://linktr.ee/the_untypical_ot☕ If you'd like to support the podcast, you can buy me a coffee here:https://buymeacoffee.com/the.untypical.ot I'm Liz, The Untypical OT. I support parents and carers in additional needs and neurodivergent families to protect against burnout and go from overwhelmed to more moments of ease. 🔗 To connect with me, you can find all my details on Linktree: | |||
| Even the Strongest Voices Have Their Moments | 25 Feb 2025 | 01:09:51 | |
Enjoyed the episode, got a suggestion or a question send me a text The Untypical OT Talks with Heidi Mavir In this episode, I sit down with the brilliant and unfiltered Heidi Mavir to talk all things parenting, self-trust, and surviving the education system with our sanity (mostly) intact. We tackle the stigma around disability, the emotional toll of advocacy, and why setting boundaries is an act of self-care. Expect real talk, hard-won wisdom, and a reminder that youare the expert on your child. You can connect with Heidi on: Facebook:Education Otherwise Than At School - EOTAS Matters supporting SEN Families Instragram:@heidimavir Website:heidimavir.com 🔗To connect with Liz please find all the details on her linktree: https://linktr.ee/the_untypical_ot If you'd like to buy me a coffee to help the podcast continue please use this link:buymeacoffee.com/the.untypical.ot I'm Liz, The Untypical OT. I support parents and carers in additional needs and neurodivergent families to protect against burnout and go from overwhelmed to more moments of ease. 🔗 To connect with me, you can find all my details on Linktree: | |||
| Motorbikes, Mental Health and Parenting | 11 Feb 2025 | 00:54:37 | |
Enjoyed the episode, got a suggestion or a question send me a text Podcast Series 1: Are You The Perfect Parent? Episode 5: Bracky from Supergood Bikers for Autism 🎙 The Untypical OT Talks with Bracky from Supergood Bikers for Autism In this episode, Liz sits down with Paul Brackstone, affectionately known as Bracky, the passionate founder of Supergood Bikers for Autism. Together, they explore the unique challenges and rewards of parenting neurodivergent children, with a special focus on reaching dads who might not always feel included in the conversation. Bracky opens up about his journey as a dad raising an autistic child, sharing raw and honest insights into the highs, the lows, and the moments in between. From navigating a diagnosis to finding his voice as a parent and advocate. How motorbikes became a lifeline for processing his son's diagnosis and building a supportive community for parents like him. From organizing charity ride-outs to designing a specially-built sidecar for individuals with mobility needs, Bracky is on a mission to make a difference. This episode isn’t just for dads and bikers—it’s for anyone any parent looking for support. Whether you’re a dad yourself or a mum listening in, this is an episode to share with your partner or grab your partner and listen together. You can connect with Bracky and Supergood Bikers on: Facebook Supergood Bikers - for Autism Instagram supergood_bikers_for_autismWebsite: https://www.supergoodbikersforautism.com/whyweride Apologies for the delay in the connection at the end of the podcast. Two boys gaming and the time of day - my internet was struggling! 🔗To connect with Liz please find all the details on her linktree: https://linktr.ee/the_untypical_ot If you'd like to buy me a coffee to help the podcast continue please use this link: buymeacoffee.com/the.untypical.ot I'm Liz, The Untypical OT. I support parents and carers in additional needs and neurodivergent families to protect against burnout and go from overwhelmed to more moments of ease. 🔗 To connect with me, you can find all my details on Linktree: | |||
| "Perfection is a fallacy." The Queen Bee | 28 Jan 2025 | 00:38:43 | |
Enjoyed the episode, got a suggestion or a question send me a text Podcast Series 1: Are you the perfect Parent Episode 4: Dani Wallace While you might know Dani for her inspiring work as a public speaking coach and entrepreneur, this conversation takes a different turn. Dani talks about the realities of neurodivergence, parenting, and navigating life’s challenges with resilience and grace. Dani is raw, open and honest in this chat and is a must listen for any parent. This episode isn’t just for parents of neurodivergent kids; it’s for anyone navigating the complexities of parenting, self-care, and growth. You can find Dani on the socials: Facebook: I Am The Queen Bee Hive IATQB Instagram: The Queen Bee Dani To connect with Liz please find all the details on her linktree This episode is sponsored by: Something Profound Please use capital letters for the code, it's case sensitive I'm Liz, The Untypical OT. I support parents and carers in additional needs and neurodivergent families to protect against burnout and go from overwhelmed to more moments of ease. 🔗 To connect with me, you can find all my details on Linktree: | |||
| PDA and Parenting | 14 Jan 2025 | 00:44:10 | |
Enjoyed the episode, got a suggestion or a question send me a text Podcast Series 1: Are You The Perfect Parent? Episode 3: Nicola Reekie from the PDA Space In this episode, we're joined by Nicola Reekie from The PDA Space, where Nicola's discusses with Liz the concept of the 'perfect parent', the importance of self-understanding and compassion and reflects on parenting of the past and the present. Nicola talks about parenting children with a PDA (pathological demand avoidance) profile and the overwhelm in the early days. Make sure to listen to Nicola's story and hear things she has learnt over time that might make a difference to your family. Connect with Nicola on social media: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ThePDAspace Insta: https://www.instagram.com/the_pdaspace/ Linktree: https://linktr.ee/nicolareekie To connect with Liz please find all the details on her linktree: https://linktr.ee/the_untypical_ot I'm Liz, The Untypical OT. I support parents and carers in additional needs and neurodivergent families to protect against burnout and go from overwhelmed to more moments of ease. 🔗 To connect with me, you can find all my details on Linktree: | |||
| Beyond Attendance: Parenting Through EBSA & Neurodivergence | 13 May 2025 | 01:16:10 | |
Enjoyed the episode, got a suggestion or a question send me a text In this episode I talk with Clare Baker from Restlessminds UK. I'm Liz, The Untypical OT. I support parents and carers in additional needs and neurodivergent families to protect against burnout and go from overwhelmed to more moments of ease. 🔗 To connect with me, you can find all my details on Linktree: | |||
| It's Not That No One Is Helping.....Maybe We're Not Letting Them | 06 May 2025 | 00:25:20 | |
Enjoyed the episode, got a suggestion or a question send me a text The Untypical Parent Talks to Herself Why we often say "no" even when we desperately need support? The link for this month's parenting pause moment: The Sensory Side to Parenting: Unlock the Sensory Secret to Smoother Parenting and More Peaceful Moments
☕ If you'd like to support the podcast, you can buy me a coffee here:https://buymeacoffee.com/the.untypical.ot Topics: If you have a request for a particular topic when it comes to parenting in additional needs families, please just drop the podcast an email at contact@untypicalparentpodcast.com I'm Liz, The Untypical OT. I support parents and carers in additional needs and neurodivergent families to protect against burnout and go from overwhelmed to more moments of ease. 🔗 To connect with me, you can find all my details on Linktree: | |||
| F1 & Sparkles: How Racing Cars Connected Us | 12 Aug 2025 | 00:31:08 | |
Enjoyed the episode, got a suggestion or a question send me a text The summer holidays bring a unique rhythm to neurodivergent families with a "sweet spot" emerging between the transition from school and the anxiety of returning. This episode explores finding connection through our children's special interests during these periods. I'm Liz, The Untypical OT. I support parents and carers in additional needs and neurodivergent families to protect against burnout and go from overwhelmed to more moments of ease. 🔗 To connect with me, you can find all my details on Linktree: | |||
| Parenting with Chronic Illness: Finding Your Path | 05 Aug 2025 | 00:50:14 | |
Enjoyed the episode, got a suggestion or a question send me a text Chronic illness doesn't come with a parenting manual. That's why this conversation with Rebecca (the Chronically Resilient OT) feels like a breath of fresh air for anyone trying to raise children while managing their own health challenges. You can find Rebecca on: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thechronicallyresilientot Website: https://www.chronicresilienceot.com/ I'm Liz, The Untypical OT. I support parents and carers in additional needs and neurodivergent families to protect against burnout and go from overwhelmed to more moments of ease. 🔗 To connect with me, you can find all my details on Linktree: | |||
| "The Lone Neurotypical Crouton in a Spicy Neurodivergent Soup" | 03 Jun 2025 | 00:56:22 | |
Enjoyed the episode, got a suggestion or a question send me a text Ever felt like you're the only parent struggling while everyone else seems to have it all figured out? Then this raw, honest conversation with Mark is exactly what you need. You can find Mark on:
I'm Liz, The Untypical OT. I support parents and carers in additional needs and neurodivergent families to protect against burnout and go from overwhelmed to more moments of ease. 🔗 To connect with me, you can find all my details on Linktree: | |||
| Safety In Plan! - You what?!? Why parents need plans. | 20 May 2025 | 00:24:21 | |
Enjoyed the episode, got a suggestion or a question send me a text Plans can provide safety, reduce anxiety, and create a sense of control for parents in additional needs families when everything feels chaotic. They help reduce cognitive load and mental demand, giving us space to be more present with our children. https://buymeacoffee.com/the.untypical.ot I'm Liz, The Untypical OT. I work with parents and carers in additional needs and neurodivergent families to support them with burnout, mental health and well-being. When we support parents, everyone benefits. Take care Liz I'm Liz, The Untypical OT. I support parents and carers in additional needs and neurodivergent families to protect against burnout and go from overwhelmed to more moments of ease. 🔗 To connect with me, you can find all my details on Linktree: | |||
| Parenting On High Alert: Living with Childhood Epilepsy | 29 Jul 2025 | 00:38:14 | |
Enjoyed the episode, got a suggestion or a question send me a text What happens when your child's first seizure changes everything? Nicole Bateman, host of "Conversations with a Send Mum" podcast, takes us beyond the stereotypical understanding of epilepsy into a world most people never see. You can find Nicole: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thefriendlysendadvisor Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefriendlysendadvisor/ And Nicole mentions Young Epilepsy as a great support: https://www.youngepilepsy.org.uk/ I'm Liz, The Untypical OT. I support parents and carers in additional needs and neurodivergent families to protect against burnout and go from overwhelmed to more moments of ease. 🔗 To connect with me, you can find all my details on Linktree: | |||
| Finding Your Neurodivergent Family's Holiday Sweet Spot | 23 Jul 2025 | 00:18:44 | |
Enjoyed the episode, got a suggestion or a question send me a text PLEASE NOTE THERE HAS BEEN A CHANGE OF NAME FOR THE VIDEO AND TOP TIPS DOWNLOAD. IT IS NOW CALLED THE NEURODIVERGENT FAMILY HOLIDAY GUIDE - it does what is says on the tin. Ever felt like your family is the only one struggling through what should be a blissful vacation experience? You're definitely not alone. The gap between holiday expectations and reality can be enormous, especially for families navigating additional needs. https://info.the-untypical-ot.co.uk/neurodivergent-family-holiday-guide I'm Liz, The Untypical OT. I support parents and carers in additional needs and neurodivergent families to protect against burnout and go from overwhelmed to more moments of ease. 🔗 To connect with me, you can find all my details on Linktree: | |||
| ADHD, Hormones & Parenting: What no one tells you about | 15 Jul 2025 | 00:54:57 | |
Enjoyed the episode, got a suggestion or a question send me a text Sarah West shares her journey as a late-diagnosed ADHD woman navigating the challenges of perimenopause while parenting two neurodivergent daughters. She explains how declining estrogen levels during perimenopause can significantly worsen ADHD symptoms by further reducing dopamine production. https://www.sarahwest-adhd.com/ We also speak about PMDD, which is an acronym for Premenstrual Dysphoria Disorder, a severe form of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) characterised by intense emotional and physical symptoms that significantly disrupt daily life, impacting mood, behaviour, and physical well-being. You can find Sarah on: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61573657439110 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sarahwest_adhd/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarah-west-adhd/ I'm Liz, The Untypical OT. I support parents and carers in additional needs and neurodivergent families to protect against burnout and go from overwhelmed to more moments of ease. 🔗 To connect with me, you can find all my details on Linktree: | |||
| Finding Each Other in the Hardest Moments of Neurodivergent Parenting | 08 Jul 2025 | 00:22:22 | |
Enjoyed the episode, got a suggestion or a question send me a text Have you ever felt completely alone while managing your child's meltdown in public? That moment when all eyes seem to be on you, judging your parenting skills, and you just wish someone would silently acknowledge they understand what you're going through? You can get yours here: https://www.something-profound.co.uk/collections/liz-evans-the-untypical-ot-collaboration I'm Liz, The Untypical OT. I support parents and carers in additional needs and neurodivergent families to protect against burnout and go from overwhelmed to more moments of ease. 🔗 To connect with me, you can find all my details on Linktree: | |||
| Is A Good Enough Parent, Good Enough? | 01 Jul 2025 | 00:54:48 | |
Enjoyed the episode, got a suggestion or a question send me a text Have you ever felt overwhelmed by the pressure to be the perfect parent? Take a deep breath – you're not alone, and this conversation might be exactly what you need to hear. Speech and language therapist Ruth Jones talks with me about the concept of being a "good enough" parent, when I ask her if she is the perfect parent. We talk about: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RuthJonesSLT Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ruth_jones_slt/ I'm Liz, The Untypical OT. I support parents and carers in additional needs and neurodivergent families to protect against burnout and go from overwhelmed to more moments of ease. 🔗 To connect with me, you can find all my details on Linktree: | |||
| Dyslexic Parenting (part 2): My Brain Uses a Postage Stamp When Others Have A4 Pages | 24 Jun 2025 | 00:22:40 | |
Enjoyed the episode, got a suggestion or a question send me a text Part 2 Ever wondered what it's like navigating complex systems with dyslexia while trying to advocate for your children's needs? The mental gymnastics can be exhausting, yet this challenge remains largely invisible in discussions about parenting. I'm Liz, The Untypical OT. I support parents and carers in additional needs and neurodivergent families to protect against burnout and go from overwhelmed to more moments of ease. 🔗 To connect with me, you can find all my details on Linktree: | |||
| The Consent Compass: Navigating Parenting Beyond "Because I Said So" | 17 Jun 2025 | 00:56:46 | |
Enjoyed the episode, got a suggestion or a question send me a text What happens when we throw away the parenting rulebook and embrace our authentic, imperfect selves? In this fascinating conversation with Jen Wilson (aka Irregular Jen), we explore the radical idea that perfect parenting is not only impossible—it's not even desirable. You can find Jenn on social media; Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/IrregularJennPage Instagram; https://www.instagram.com/irregularjenn/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@irregularjenn Jenn also has a new membership launching 'The Irregular Membership', you can find more information here: https://bemore.irregular.org.uk/membership I'm Liz, The Untypical OT. I support parents and carers in additional needs and neurodivergent families to protect against burnout and go from overwhelmed to more moments of ease. 🔗 To connect with me, you can find all my details on Linktree: | |||
| Dyslexic Parenting part 1: When Your Kids Outspell You | 10 Jun 2025 | 00:22:23 | |
Enjoyed the episode, got a suggestion or a question send me a text Parenting while dyslexic introduces unique challenges—especially when kids outstrip you in literacy. In this opening instalment of a two-part series, I share my personal journey navigating dyslexia in a family where words don’t always come easily. We’ll cover: • The emotional impact of having children who read faster or more fluently than you do • Why everyday logistics and planning can feel overwhelming when dyslexia is in the mix • How teamwork and honesty build a strengths-based family culture • Letting go of shame and discovering pride in your differences This episode is for dyslexic parents—or parents of dyslexic kids—who want to nurture openness and confidence in their families. I'm Liz, The Untypical OT. I support parents and carers in additional needs and neurodivergent families to protect against burnout and go from overwhelmed to more moments of ease. 🔗 To connect with me, you can find all my details on Linktree: | |||
| Demand Avoidance Decoded | 23 Sep 2025 | 00:48:13 | |
Enjoyed the episode, got a suggestion or a question send me a text What actually is PDA? Speech and language therapist Libby Hill cuts through the confusion with clarity and compassion, drawing on decades of clinical experience and her work with leading PDA researchers. People and support that were discussed in the episode: Sally Cat: https://www.facebook.com/SallyCatPDA PDA Society website: https://www.pdasociety.org.uk/ and helpline: https://www.pdasociety.org.uk/support-and-training/ Libby mentions the PDA practice guidelines which you can find here: https://www.pdasociety.org.uk/research-professional-practice/identification-and-diagnosis-process/ You can find Libby here: And her new book "Born Naughty" I'm Liz, The Untypical OT. I support parents and carers in additional needs and neurodivergent families to protect against burnout and go from overwhelmed to more moments of ease. 🔗 To connect with me, you can find all my details on Linktree: | |||
| Why Neurodivergent Parents Are Epic | 09 Sep 2025 | 00:55:15 | |
Enjoyed the episode, got a suggestion or a question send me a text In this episode, Jodie talks about her journey from unconsciously trying to be the “perfect yummy mummy” to showing up as her real, neurodivergent self in parenting. A big turning point was her eldest daughter’s autism diagnosis, which set her on a path of self-discovery and completely shifted how she saw both herself and her role as a parent. She shares openly about the tough stuff too — battling the education system, being on the receiving end of parent blame, and going through gruelling tribunal hearings to fight for her kids’ needs. But what really comes through is Jodie’s belief in the strengths neurodivergent parents bring. As she puts it, “We are epic parents to our kids because we get it... We’ve got that hyper empathy on a deeper level because we feel everything so deeply.” It’s a powerful reminder that our differences can actually be our strengths. If you’re parenting neurodivergent kids, exploring your own identity, or just looking for a more honest take on parenting outside the box, you’ll get a lot from this conversation. You can follow Jodie’s work through her books and social channels to keep learning from her lived experience. Jodie's books that we spoke about are:
I'm Liz, The Untypical OT. I support parents and carers in additional needs and neurodivergent families to protect against burnout and go from overwhelmed to more moments of ease. 🔗 To connect with me, you can find all my details on Linktree: | |||
| Navigating the September Back-to-School / Learning Shifts in Rhythms for Neurodivergent Families | 02 Sep 2025 | 00:22:44 | |
Enjoyed the episode, got a suggestion or a question send me a text Ever noticed how we pour endless energy into helping our kids through back-to-school transitions, but we completely forget about ourselves? Welcome back to the Untypical Parent podcast for Season Three, where we're diving straight into what can be one of the most challenging times of year for neurodivergent families. I'm Liz, The Untypical OT. I support parents and carers in additional needs and neurodivergent families to protect against burnout and go from overwhelmed to more moments of ease. 🔗 To connect with me, you can find all my details on Linktree: | |||
| BDD: What is it? Early Signs, Misdiagnosis, and How Parents Can Help | 21 Oct 2025 | 00:49:40 | |
Enjoyed the episode, got a suggestion or a question send me a text I sit down with Sam Milburn to unpack body dysmorphic disorder (BDD), what it is, why it hides in plain sight, and how parents can spot early signs. We share practical next steps, from navigating CAMHS to using scripts that break reassurance loops without breaking trust. We cover: You can find information about BDD and the support Sam offers here: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beyond_bdd/ And Sam's Facebook group Body Dysmorphic Disorder Support for Parents and Carers: https://www.facebook.com/groups/bddcarersupport/ I'm Liz, The Untypical OT. I support parents and carers in additional needs and neurodivergent families to protect against burnout and go from overwhelmed to more moments of ease. 🔗 To connect with me, you can find all my details on Linktree: | |||
| Autistic Girls, Women and Non Binary People with Cathy from The Autistic Girls Network | 07 Oct 2025 | 00:45:29 | |
Enjoyed the episode, got a suggestion or a question send me a text Kathy Wassell, CEO and founder of the Autistic Girls Network Charity, talks with me about her journey creating supportive spaces for neurodivergent individuals, particularly women and girls who are often missed in traditional diagnostic pathways.
Cathy's book: Nurturing Your Autistic Young Person: A Parent’s Handbook to Supporting Newly Diagnosed Teens and Pre-TeensI'm Liz, The Untypical OT. I support parents and carers in additional needs and neurodivergent families to protect against burnout and go from overwhelmed to more moments of ease. 🔗 To connect with me, you can find all my details on Linktree: | |||