Beyond the Spectrum - Conversations with Parents on Autism and Beyond

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 🙏

In this episode of Beyond the Spectrum – Conversations with Parents on Autism and Beyond, we take an unexpected journey from fishing in Oman to discussing autism and alternative treatments.
Meet Claire, a boat captain in Oman, whose son Leo is autistic. When mainstream approaches didn’t give the results she was hoping for, she explored the controversial but intriguing path of stem cell therapy. In this candid and thought-provoking chat, Claire shares her family’s experience, the challenges they faced, and what led her to give this treatment a go.
This story is a little different from our usual episodes, but definitely worth a listen. Could stem cell therapy open up new possibilities for autism intervention? Tune in, keep an open mind, and let us know your thoughts.
If you'd like to get in touch with Claire, let us know and we’ll pass on her details. And if you ever find yourself in Oman, make sure to book a fishing trip with her - it’s an adventure you won’t forget!
Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe to help us grow and support more families on the autism journey.
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 🙏

Episode 4: Raising Neurodivergent Kids While Navigating Her Own Diagnosis: Katie's Story

In this episode of Beyond the Spectrum Podcast, Katie shares her journey as a neurodivergent parent with two neurodivergent children. Katie works as a dance teacher at her children's school and manages their therapy and educational needs. 

She has an 11-year-old son and a 10-year-old daughter, both diagnosed with autism and ADHD. Katie received her own autism diagnosis in December 2021. 

She emphasizes the importance of being open about neurodivergence with her children and discusses the challenges of social isolation, friendship dynamics, and managing behavioral issues. 

Katie provides valuable insights on early intervention, the importance of having support systems, and maintaining an adaptable approach to parenting neurodivergent children.
We hope you get a lot out of listening and we would appreciate your feedback, so please reach out via comments, emailing us etc. We'd love to hear from you.
Clint
Autism & Beyond Australia

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 🙏