In this heartfelt episode of Beyond the Spectrum - Conversations with Parents on Autism and Beyond, Clint sits down with Erica, a teacher, mother of two children with Level 3 Autism and ADHD, and soon-to-be published author.

Erica shares her family's journey from the early signs of autism through diagnosis, school challenges, separation anxiety, masking, meltdowns, and the daily realities of raising two neurodivergent children with complex support needs.

The conversation explores:

• Early signs and diagnosis of autism in boys and girls
• The hidden impact of masking
• School refusal and separation anxiety
• Supporting siblings with very different needs
• Why self-care isn't selfish for parents
• Trusting your instincts and advocating for your child
• Finding hope, strength and purpose through adversity

Erica also discusses her upcoming book, The Bonds Between Us: A Mother's Journey Raising Two Neurodivergent Hearts, and why she hopes it helps parents feel less alone on their journey.

Whether you're at the beginning of your autism journey or years into it, this episode is packed with practical insights, honest reflections and a powerful reminder that there is support, hope and community available.

"Your child hasn't changed. You're simply learning to understand them differently."

🎧 Listen now and join the conversation.

If you enjoyed listening and found this content valuable we'd appreciate it if you could provide a positive review and to share this with your network to potentially reach and help more parents and families 🙏

In this episode of Beyond the Spectrum - Conversations with Parents on Autism and Beyond, Clint chats with Lauren and Janine — two mums who migrated to Australia and are raising children with level 2 autism and ADHD.

They unpack:

• The reality of masking in girls and boys - and why it delays diagnosis
• Early supports that moved the needle - ECDP, Bush Kids, OT, speech, small schools
• Advocating in kindy and school - when to push, when to change environments
• Age-appropriate ways to talk to kids about diagnosis and self-advocacy
• The cost - financial strain, sibling dynamics, isolation, and nervous system overload
• Self-care that actually happens - micro-breaks at home, parent coaching, therapy assistants
• Building your ASD village - Facebook groups, local parents, therapists, and honest friendships
  
  

If you’re at the start of the journey or somewhere in the messy middle, this convo is full of practical tips, honest emotions, and the reminder to trust your gut - and find your people.

Listen, share, and tag someone who needs this today.

If you enjoyed listening and found this content valuable we'd appreciate it if you could provide a positive review and to share this with your network to potentially reach and help more parents and families 🙏

In this episode of Beyond the Spectrum – Conversations with Parents on Autism and Beyond, we sit down with Kerri — a teacher-turned-mum who shares her deeply personal journey of parenting her neurodivergent son while discovering her own ADHD along the way.

Kerri talks about:

• Navigating life transitions and multiple moves
• Creating an environment where her son feels safe and understood
• The challenges of getting a diagnosis when your child "masks" well
• Reparenting herself to break cycles of generational discipline
• Building co-regulation skills and fostering emotional awareness
• Choosing alternative education paths, including homeschooling and small schools
• The importance of finding your tribe and connecting with other parents on the same journey

Kerri’s story is a powerful reminder that every child — and every parent — has a unique path. Her honesty and openness shine a light on the often unspoken struggles and triumphs of neurodivergent parenting.

Tune in for heartfelt insights, practical wisdom, and a big dose of hope.

If you enjoyed listening and found this content valuable we'd appreciate it if you could provide a positive review and to share this with your network to potentially reach and help more parents and families 🙏