Best Journeys With PDA Podcasts (2025)

1
Season 3 Episode 30 - Special Guest: Sarah Martin, RDN 1:22:59

15d ago1:22:59

1:22:59

Send us a text In this episode, Heather and Kerissa chat with Sarah Martin, RDN Sarah Martin, RDN is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist dedicated to educating and empowering neurodivergent individuals and families to nourish their relationships with food and eating. A late-diagnosed AuDHD PDAer and parent of 3 neurodivergent children, Sarah is in …

1
Julia Daunt’s Journey navigating life with ADHD and PDA 44:52

20d ago44:52

44:52

“I reduce demands before an activity so that my anxiety reduces.” In this episode of Your Voice Matters, Asma Jacob chats with Julia Daunt, a passionate advocate for the neurodivergent community. Julia shares her lived experience with Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) and ADHD, offering insights into how she overcame the challenges she faced from…

1
15- We're On Instagram! 30:42

2d ago30:42

30:42

In this weeks episode we chat a lot about different theories and how they have influenced our lives for the better with more positive thinking, which is always needed. We play a game of agree or disagree and also a little dating school update! We have a new Instagram page - @asexualsanonymouspodcast so please give that a follow if you haven't alrea…

1
Why does the Assess, Plan, Do, Review cycle matter? with Sara Alston 1:11:26

5d ago1:11:26

1:11:26

Since the 2015 SEN Code of Practice SEN support has been based on a graduate response that includes an Assess, Plan, Do, Review (APDR) cycle. Unfortunately, this cycle is becoming fragmented, with each component operating in isolation. Assessments are not being linked to children’s needs or plans to support them. Plans are made but not implemented …

1
14-Tour De Asexual 28:45

9d ago28:45

28:45

In this episode we have a lovely catch up after our week off, dive into the lovely emails from you lovely listeners, and talk about needing to educate ourselves on the aromantic spectrum. If you would like to message us with any questions, stories, or advice, please do! You're more than welcome to stay anonymous is you'd prefer, we understand not e…

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Informal SEND Provision in Mainstream Primary: The Positives and The Pitfalls with Kate Browning 1:00:47

12d ago1:00:47

1:00:47

In this episode of the SENDcast, Dale discusses informal SEND provision in mainstream primary schools with Kate Browning, an experienced SEND consultant. They explore the increasing demand for inclusive education amid a rise in children with complex needs and the challenges schools face in effectively supporting these students. Kate highlights what…

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Universal Approaches to Support in Education with Clare Ward & James Galpin 1:07:52

19d ago1:07:52

1:07:52

I just finished listening to this thought-provoking podcast episode featuring Dr Jamie Galpin and Clare Ward! They join Dale to discuss ‘Universal Approaches to Support in Education’, at a time when we're seeing rising levels of emotion-based school avoidance, teachers struggling with mental health challenges or leaving the profession altogether, a…

1
13- I Like My Labels 21:40

22d ago21:40

21:40

A short but sweet one this week. In this episode we have another amazing email to reflect on. Bringing up conversations on the value of labels, femininity within males and the thought of taking the podcast across the pond...?? If you would like to message us with any questions, stories, or advice, please do! You're more than welcome to stay anonymo…

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How Dealing with Mental Images and ‘re-wiring’ the Brain Can Create Breakthroughs for Dyslexia with Lou Barnes 51:44

26d ago51:44

51:44

In our latest episode, we dive into the challenges faced by children struggling with reading and writing. It's crucial for us as educators to recognise the signs that indicate a child's brain may not be processing text in a way that allows for easy reading and spelling. Dale is joined in our new studio by Lou Barnes, a trainer and founder of Unlock…

1
nasen awards - Clare Brun Teacher of the Year 28:00

28d ago28:00

28:00

In this final special episode of our nasen award winner series, Clare Brun shares her experiences and insights as the Teacher of the Year, highlighting her work at Holyrood Academy and the transformative impact of their enhanced learning provision. Throughout the discussion, Clare emphasises the importance of support, collaboration, and strong rela…

1
Special Episode Autism Europe International Congress 2025 24:26

28d ago24:26

24:26

We are delighted to welcome the team behind Autism Congress on the SENDcast. In this special episode of the SENDcast, Dale Pickles discusses the upcoming Autism Europe International Congress 11-13th September in Dublin. The event team join Dale including Adam Harris, Peter Vermeulen and Zsuzsanna Szilvasy. They highlight that the Congress aims to c…

1
Lets Talk Travelling 39:46

29d ago39:46

39:46

#1 Summary An episode for those of you who live the same life as we do i.e. with neurodivergent and SEN children, to resonate with, feel validated by, laugh at and know you are not alone when it comes to travelling. And for others listening to know our struggles, become aware and help us change attitudes. Encompassing all things travel related from…

1
12-Why Are We Obsessed With Sex 36:17

1M ago36:17

36:17

In this episode we talk about why the world and as individuals we are 'obsessed' and fascinated with sex. From school life into adult life, sex is everywhere but we are never actually educated about it properly. Does this lead to an obsession, and want, to find out more? If you would like to message us with any questions, stories, or advice, please…

1
Awesome Archie's Journey from Mainstream to Specialist Education with Archie Clapcott 35:14

1M ago35:14

35:14

I'm excited to share our latest podcast episode featuring our youngest guest, 16-year-old Archie Clapcott. Archie travelled to our studio to discuss his journey from mainstream education to a specialist setting. As an autistic individual with ADHD and Tourette’s Syndrome, he offers a unique perspective that we can all learn from. I was really taken…

1
My experience as a parent of an autistic child with Folashade Dan-Oketola 49:49

1M ago49:49

49:49

“If we don’t take breaks, we burn out. Accept help where you can.” In this episode of Your Voice Matters, Asma Jacob speaks with Folashade Dan-Oketola, a parent, caregiver, and advocate for the neurodivergent and SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities) community. Folashade shares her journey of parenting an autistic child, highlighting th…

1
11-Love Is Love 28:55

1M ago28:55

28:55

In this episode we read more emails from you listeners! We discuss the phrase 'Love Is Love' and talk about if it is exclusive to parts of our community or not. We also talk about whether being aromatic is under the asexual umbrella. As we state a lot in these episode, we are not experts, we just give our opinions on topics like these, which are op…

1
nasen awards - Jane Fearnley & Faye Ebbs, Alternative Provision of the Year 36:39

1M ago36:39

36:39

Jane Fearnley and Faye Ebbs from the LEAF Centre, discuss their work and recent recognition as winners of the nasen Alternative Provision of the Year award. The Leaf Centre, located within Willow Tree Academy, focuses on providing therapeutic intervention support to improve student attendance, reduce exclusions, and foster early intervention, leadi…

1
Relationship Dynamics with Children with PDA with Beth Elkins & Ian Thorsteinsson 1:09:55

1M ago1:09:55

1:09:55

I am delighted to share the latest episode of our podcast, where Beth Elkins and Ian Thorsteinsson from Gretton School join Dale to explore the relationship dynamics with children who have Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA). Beth is a parent to a young man with PDA and brings a unique perspective that combines both personal and professional insigh…

1
nasen awards - St Andrews International School, International Provision of the Year 33:04

1M ago33:04

33:04

In this special episode, Catherine McCluskey, Paul Schofield, and Roo Stenning from St Andrews International School in Bangkok discuss their recognition as the International Provision of the Year at the nasen Awards. They highlight the school's commitment to inclusivity, emphasising that every child's potential is valued and supported. Catherine no…

1
10- I'm About As Deep As A Shot Glass 27:35

2M ago27:35

27:35

In this weeks episode, we set up Amie's hinge profile and talk about dating apps and how we feel about maybe not 100% knowing our identity or the kind of person we are looking for in a relationship. We also talk about reinventing ourselves when out and meeting people in bars by having fake jobs.. which always led to an entertaining night out. A mas…

1
‘Improve not Prove’: Self-Evaluation for Continuous Improvement in Inclusion 56:27

2M ago56:27

56:27

Inclusion continues to be a hot topic in education, and while schools have made tremendous strides in fostering inclusivity, several barriers remain, particularly league tables and Ofsted defining school intent. In our latest episode of the SENDcast, Dale speaks with Maria Dawes, CEO of the Schools Alliance for Excellence. Maria shares valuable ins…

1
Clip "Community in Venice, Italy" from Episode 9 9:30

2M ago9:30

9:30

This clip is from Episode 9: "Venice Through the Eyes of a Local - Avoid Getting Pickpocketed, Identify Tourist Traps, and Learn the Origins of Ciao, Spritz, and Fascinating Historical Anecdotes about Italy" Find the full episode here: Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube In the full episode, Federico Blumer reveals a lot of uncommonly told insights abou…

1
Kareena’s journey and capacity as an autistic adult 1:02:12

2M ago1:02:12

1:02:12

"As an autistic individual, as somebody that's neurodiverse, the ability to organise information and filter out what's important, all those kinds of things, they don't come naturally to us.” In this episode of Your Voice Matters, host Asma Jacob speaks with Kareena Kai, an autistic adult and the founder of Busy Bees Inc Club CIC. Kareena shares her…

1
nasen awards - Alison Eason, Changemaker of the Year 35:30

2M ago35:30

35:30

Alison Eason discusses her recognition as the Changemaker of the Year at the nasen Awards for her innovative work in using technology to support students with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). She emphasises how her computing strategies help students with dyslexia, dyspraxia, autism, and ADHD, promoting independence and reducing re…

1
Season 3 Episode 29 - Special Guest: Steph Curtis 58:32

2M ago58:32

58:32

Send us a text In this episode, Heather and Kerissa chat with Steph Curtis, author of "PDA in the Family: Life After the Lightbulb Moment," and the blog Steph's Two Girls. You can find more information about Steph Curtis at www.stephstwogirls.co.uk Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/stephstwogirls Join Heather & Kerissa as they share from an authen…

1
9- The World Is Changing.. We Don't Even Have X-Factor Anymore 25:00

2M ago25:00

25:00

This week we have our anonymous friend back with us and we discuss more of your lovely messages. We talk about figuring out your sexualities at different ages, finding other asexuals and how you pronounce Aroace. We also talk about how we thought and saw life at 16 and how it has not panned out as we may have once thought. Please leave comments, li…

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Why We Need More Support For Neurodivergent Teachers with Catrina Lowri 1:08:33

2M ago1:08:33

1:08:33

We typically discuss how to support neurodivergent children, but what about teachers? Today, Dale and Catrina Lowri, founder of Neuroteachers, discuss the need for increased support for neurodivergent teachers and support staff. Catrina shares her personal journey as a neurodivergent educator with a diagnosis of bipolar disorder, dyslexia and ADHD.…

1
Clip "How Growing up in Italy as a Black Woman Shaped her Identity" from Episode 8 7:40

2M ago7:40

7:40

This clip is from Episode 8: "Growing Up Black in Italy - Stefania Okereke's Journey from Childhood in Cremona to Producing a Show with Amazon Prime that Taught her the Italian Food Fun Facts she Shares" Find the full episode here: Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube In the full episode, Stefania Okereke gets deep about her experience as a Black woman t…

1
nasen awards - Michelle Madziak, Teacher of the Year 25:46

2M ago25:46

25:46

In this special episode, Michelle Madziak discusses her recognition as a joint winner of the Teacher of the Year award at the nasen Awards. She emphasises her passion for empowering students and the transformative impact of her work in a special needs setting. Michelle highlights her innovative use of communication tools like tactile signing and iP…

1
8- We're Proud But We Shouldn't Have To Be 1:01:16

2M ago1:01:16

1:01:16

This week we have our first guest! Dr Sam Walkden who is a chartered psychologist and openly queer academic. We talk about navigating the dating world and being proud but should we have to be..? Sam is so articulate when she speaks it is hard not to listen to her! It was such an interesting conversation, and we are so grateful she gave up her time …

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The Importance of Literacy Education for ALL learners with Chantal Bryan & Sarah Giles 49:49

2M ago49:49

49:49

In today’s episode, ‘The Importance of Literacy Education for ALL Learners’, Chantal Bryan and Sarah Giles from the charity Teach Us Too join Dale for an engaging discussion. The conversation centres around Chantal’s son, Jonathan, who faces significant challenges due to his complex physical disabilities. I was inspired by his incredible journey to…

1
Clip "Italian Words That Mean Something Different in the U.S. and Italy" from Episode 7 3:52

2M ago3:52

3:52

This clip is from Episode 7: "Tips for Learning Italian - Make Friends and Find a Job in Italy, Avoid Apartment Hunting Nightmares, and Embrace the Italian Culture" Find the full episode here: Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube In the full episode, Roberto Cittadini, an Italian teacher for 30 years, explains why learning the language is the key to unlo…

1
Autism, ADHD, and the Importance of Diagnosis with Jen Slaton 1:01:25

2M ago1:01:25

1:01:25

"The diagnosis is not a label, it's a key. It's a key to understanding." In this episode of Your Voice Matters, host Asma Jacob speaks with psychotherapist and coach Jen Slaton, who has extensive experience working with the neurodivergent community. Jen shares her personal and professional journey, highlighting the impact of late diagnosis on menta…

1
nasen awards - Chapman Shum, Young Advocate of the Year 40:18

2M ago40:18

40:18

The podcast features Chapman Shum, the nasen Young Advocate of the Year 2024 winner, discussing his journey as a visually impaired musician. Chapman, who was born blind and has learning difficulties, shares how music has been a powerful tool for connection and expression. He emphasises that challenges can be overcome and aims to inspire others faci…

1
7- Glamourising Asexuality 22:02

2M ago22:02

22:02

This week we dive into the DM's (Emails) and read what some of you lovely listeners have sent in. Some lovely messages and great conversation starters; from how invalidate the negative connotations of the term 'asexual' to making asexuality a bit more glamorous. A massive thank you to everyone who has already got in touch, we really appreciate it! …

1
S2C Lesson Writing with Guest Helen Adderley 1:01:57

2M ago1:01:57

1:01:57

#1 Summary An hour long episode with guest Helen Adderley who is so charming and intelligent and joy to chat with. Helen talks us through her own personal journey with her son Phil, becoming a Spell2Communicate Practitioner and most importantly about her book of lessons for non speaking, minimally and unreliably speaking individuals learning to spe…

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Structured Teaching, Pre-empting Barriers and Developing Curriculum Pathways with Tanya Lefort 1:32:32

2M ago1:32:32

1:32:32

As the number of children with SEND in mainstream schools continues to rise, coupled with limited spaces in specialist settings, the demand for effective and inclusive support is huge. More children are entering classrooms with complex needs, placing pressure on mainstream schools to meet those needs. But how can schools do this? This week, Tanya L…

1
nasen awards - Dale Pickles, Resource for SEND 36:31

2M ago36:31

36:31

In this podcast episode, Dale Pickles takes a step back from hosting duties where his colleague Jon asks the questions. They discuss the success of the SENDcast podcast, which won the Resource for SEND at the nasen awards 2024. Dale reflects on the podcast’s journey over four years, highlighting its reach of over 350,000 listens and contributions f…

1
Season 3 Episode 28 - Special Guest: JD Barker- New York Times and International Best Selling Author 51:17

2M ago51:17

51:17

Send us a text In this episode, Heather & Kerissa chat with New York Times and International Best Selling Author JD Barker about late diagnosis and being an autistic author. You can find more information about JD Barker at: https://jdbarker.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/therealjdbarker Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jdbarker_author?…

1
6- Intimacy, PDA & Drew Barrymore 23:12

2M ago23:12

23:12

In this Episode we discuss Intimacy and different ways people feel intimate with others especially with us identifying as asexual. We talk about how PDA makes us feel and our love languages. We also bring Drew Barrymore, Ariana Grande & Cynthia Erivo into conversation. Please leave comments, like, rate, subscribe, download.. all the bits to help us…

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Foundations of Early Literacy – What Are the Building Blocks? with Dr Sarah Moseley & Ginny Bootman 1:00:40

2M ago1:00:40

1:00:40

This week Dale is joined by Dr Sarah Moseley, Educational Consultant, and SENCO of four schools, Ginny Bootman to discuss ‘Foundations of early literacy – what are the building blocks?’ This is the first episode in a series exploring the foundational components of early literacy, which aims to bridge the gap between theory and classroom practice. T…

1
Clip ""90% of Meat in Europe is Produced in Intensive Farms"" from Episode 6 3:19

3M ago3:19

3:19

This clip is from Episode 6: "The Truth Behind Italy's Food Culture - What You Might Not Know About Italian Food and Secrets of the Meat Industry Revealed by the Director of Food For Profit" Find the full episode here: Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube In the full episode, Pablo D’Ambrosi, Director of Food For Profit, exposes the meat industry in a wa…

1
Masking (The Pressure of Fitting In: Understanding Neurodivergent Masking with Carly Considine) 50:26

3M ago50:26

50:26

"Masking is a form of trying to fit into social norms—pretending to be someone you're not. It comes at a cost: burnout, anxiety, and mental health challenges." In this episode of Your Voice Matters, host Asma Jacob welcomes back advocate Carly Considine for another insightful conversation about masking within the neurodivergent community. Carly sha…

1
nasen awards - Karen McGuigan, Highly commended Resource for SEND 44:21

3M ago44:21

44:21

In this special podcast episode, Karen McGuigan discusses her work with the ‘Maths for Life’ program, which was highly commended in the resource for SEND category by nasen. Karen explains that ‘Maths for Life’ is designed to help students build foundational mathematical skills, particularly for those who struggle with the national curriculum. Karen…

1
5- TikTok Comments & Having A Full Cup First 30:18

3M ago30:18

30:18

In episode 5 we take a deep dive into the TikTok comments of some of the viral videos on Amie's Profile. We also talk about not needing a partner to make you a whole person and making sure you have a full cup first before bringing a romantic someone into your life. This episode contains a lot of laughter and of course a couple tangents. Please LIKE…

1
Supporting Colour Blindness with Marie Difolco 1:10:09

3M ago1:10:09

1:10:09

Did you know that 300 million people worldwide live with colour blindness, including 3 million in the UK and around 450,000 of those are children? Unfortunately, many of these children are being let down by the education system, as colour blindness often goes unrecognised - meaning there’s likely one child in every classroom facing this challenge. …

1
nasen awards - Maxine O'Neill, Specialist provision of the year 38:13

3M ago38:13

38:13

Maxine O'Neill discusses Hope School, which won the Specialist Provision of the Year award. She highlights the school's commitment to a trauma-informed approach, serving 68 students and working with 32 schools across Liverpool through their HEARTS program. This program emphasises holistic thinking, empowerment, trust, and safety within the school c…

1
Season 3 Episode 27 - Neurodivergent Accommodations, Adjustments & Supports 1:13:13

3M ago1:13:13

1:13:13

Send us a text In our Season 3 Kick-Off, Heather & Kerissa chat about accommodations. Join Heather & Kerissa as they share from an authentic & real-life perspective with in-depth conversations around neurodiversity, PDA autism profile, and the autistic experience. This, on occasion, includes sensitive and difficult topics. (Topics include but are n…

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4- Do you Not Date Because You're Asexual? 25:17

3M ago25:17

25:17

In this episode we begin by letting you behind the curtain a little. We talk about starting to date again and reasons why we might not have gone on dates in the last few years as much. We also discuss how we feel about being asexual fluctuates from day to day, Please get in touch with any questions, stories, or advice. You're more than welcome to s…

1
Life's Ups and Downs of Having or Not Having a Special Needs Assessment with Dr Susie Nyman 1:14:31

3M ago1:14:31

1:14:31

In recent years, we have seen increasing requests for diagnoses related to autism, dyslexia, and other neurodiverse conditions. Often parents may feel that having a diagnosis is a golden ticket to access support, but this is merely a step in a long journey of understanding and support. Dr Susie Nyman joins Dale in the studio to discuss ‘Life's ups …

Podcasts Worth a Listen

Journeys With PDA Podcasts

Podcasts Worth a Listen