This Is Autism explores the subjects that really matter to autistic people and those who care for them, including masking, sex and relationships, puberty and wellbeing. Hosted by the North East Autism Society , the podcast hears from autistic people about how they experience the world, and offers practical advice along the way. If you are autistic or love someone who is, join us as we tackle the issues that don’t often get talked about.
What is monotropism, and how does it shape the way many autistic and ADHD people experience the world? In this episode of This is Autism , Kerry Highcock, Family Development Manager at the North East Autism Society, is joined by autistic teacher, writer and advocate Helen Edgars, the voice behind Autistic Realms . Together, they explore the theory of monotropism – an autistic-led, neurodiversity-affirming framework that helps explain deep focus, flow states, sensory experiences, transitions and attention. Helen shares how discovering monotropism transformed her understanding of autism, moving away from deficit-based thinking and towards a more positive and authentic perspective. The conversation explores what monotropic thinking can look like in everyday life, why transitions and interruptions can be so challenging, and how embracing flow can support wellbeing and help prevent burnout. Whether you're autistic, ADHD, a parent, educator, professional or simply interested in learning more about neurodiversity, this episode offers practical insights and strategies to better understand and support monotropic thinkers at home, in school and in the workplace. In this episode, you'll learn: What monotropism is and why it matters The difference between monotropic and polytropic attention Why flow states are so important for many autistic people How monotropism influences learning, communication and wellbeing Practical ways to create more neurodiversity-affirming environments Listen now and discover how understanding monotropism can help us move beyond stereotypes and create spaces where autistic and neurodivergent people can truly thrive.
Despite growing awareness of autism, around 70–80% of autistic people remain unemployed or underemployed. Why is this still happening, and what needs to change? In this episode of This Is Autism , host Kerry Heickock is joined by author and autism advocate Charlotte Aldred to discuss the barriers autistic people face when seeking and maintaining employment. Charlotte shares insights from her forthcoming book, Autistic and Unemployed: The Complete Guide to Finding and Keeping a Job , drawing on both extensive research and her personal experience raising a neurodivergent son. Together they explore: • Why traditional recruitment processes often disadvantage autistic candidates • The hidden barriers within job descriptions and interviews • Practical strategies for autistic job seekers • The pros and cons of disclosing an autism diagnosis at work • Workplace adjustments that can make a real difference • What employers can do to create more inclusive workplaces Charlotte also shares her family's journey supporting her son into meaningful employment and explains why recognising autistic strengths is key to closing the autism employment gap. Whether you're autistic, supporting an autistic person, or looking to create a more inclusive workplace, this episode is packed with practical advice and valuable insights. Listen now and join the conversation.
In this episode, for Autism Acceptance Week Kerrie is joined by NEAS CEO John Phillipson, who has led the organisation for more than 20 years. John has played a central role in shaping the charity’s values, expanding its services, and championing the shift from autism awareness to true autism acceptance. Together, Kerrie and John discuss: What autism acceptance means - John reflects on why acceptance is essential and how it influences communities, services, and everyday life for autistic people. Current challenges and barriers - Drawing on decades of experience, John talks about the obstacles that still stand in the way of genuine acceptance. A vision for the future - John shares his hopes for what the world could look like for autistic people and their families in the years ahead. Lessons learned - From societal change to evolving understanding, John looks back on the key insights he has gained throughout his leadership. This thoughtful conversation offers clarity, perspective, and a renewed call to action for anyone committed to building a more inclusive future.
In this episode of This Is Autism , host Kerrie Highcock sits down with experienced occupational therapist and MoodLifter founder Sarah Meharg to explore the world of sensory processing and why it matters for autistic people. For more than 20 years, Sarah has supported individuals with their mental health and wellbeing, helping people understand how their sensory experiences shape the way they move through the world. Her work focuses on empowering people to recognise their sensory needs, build self-awareness, and develop strategies that support comfort, regulation, and confidence. Together, Kerrie and Sarah unpack what sensory processing actually is —in simple, relatable terms and why it can look and feel different for autistic people. The conversation covers: What occupational therapists do and how they support sensory wellbeing A clear, accessible explanation of sensory processing Common sensory differences experienced by autistic people How individuals can better understand their own sensory profiles The value of recognising and honouring sensory needs What stimming is and why it plays an important role in self-regulation The benefits of stimming for emotional and physical wellbeing Sarah also shares a thoughtful final message for listeners about embracing sensory differences with confidence. This episode is a warm, practical, and an insightful guide for anyone wanting to deepen their understanding of sensory processing—whether you’re autistic, supporting someone who is, or simply interested in how our senses shape everyday life. Follow Sarah on social @moodlifterpt and visit her website www.moodlifter.co.uk
Our host Kerry Highcock sits down with Charlie Hamilton, a neuroinclusion specialist and coach supporting late-diagnosed neurodivergent women, to talk openly about the realities of receiving an autism diagnosis later in life. Together, they unpack: Why so many autistic women and girls are missed or misdiagnosed The emotional impact of masking, burnout and years of feeling “different” The grief — and the relief — that can come with late identification The power of self-compassion, community and personal advocacy What society still doesn’t understand about autistic women and girls Whether you’re late-diagnosed yourself, questioning your own journey, supporting someone you love, or working within education or health services — this honest, empowering conversation will leave you feeling seen, validated and motivated to help drive change. This Is Autism is the official podcast from the North East Autism Society, sharing real voices and lived experiences to help us all understand autism a little better. Listen now, and join the movement towards awareness, inclusion and understanding.
This World Menopause Awareness Day, This is Autism explores a topic that’s rarely discussed but deeply important, menopause through an autistic lens . Our host Kerrie Highcock sits down with Rose Matthews , an autistic researcher and advocate, to talk openly about the realities of menopause and perimenopause for autistic women and gender-diverse people. Together, they unpack: Why menopause remains misunderstood — especially in the autistic community The impact of sensory changes, misinformation and stigma The urgent need for more inclusive research and honest conversations Whether you’re autistic, supporting someone who is, or simply curious to learn more — this thoughtful, empowering discussion will leave you better informed and inspired to keep the conversation going. This is Autism is the official podcast from the North East Autism Society , sharing real voices and lived experiences to help us all understand autism a little better. Listen now, and join the movement towards awareness, inclusion and understanding.
In this episode of This Is Autism , we sit down with Bea, a passionate young autistic advocate, to talk about her experiences navigating the education system. From early school years through to sixth form, Bea reflects honestly on the challenges she faced — friendship struggles, masking, anxiety and burnout. Bea shares how a lack of early understanding and support affected her mental health and school attendance, but also how finding the right environment, such as Newcastle Bridges School, helped her rebuild confidence and feel truly supported. She opens up about the pressures of fitting in, internalised ableism, and the emotional toll of constantly having to explain and justify her needs in order to access support. The conversation also covers key themes like autistic burnout, the importance of safe spaces and special interests, and the role families play in supporting young people through education. Bea’s story highlights both the systemic issues within mainstream education and the transformative power of inclusive, compassionate approaches that value autistic voices. Whether you’re a parent, professional, or autistic young person yourself, Bea’s journey offers insights into what needs to change to make education truly inclusive.
In this episode of This is Autism , host Kerrie Highcock , Family Development Manager at the North East Autism Society, sits down with Dr Amy Pearson , a late-identified autistic researcher and assistant professor in psychology at Durham University. Amy’s work focuses on the lived experiences of autistic adults, with a particular emphasis on relationships, masking, and victimisation. Kerrie and Amy explore the findings of Amy’s award-winning research into interpersonal victimisation—specifically the abuse autistic people may face from those closest to them. Amy explains what interpersonal victimisation means, why autistic people may be more vulnerable in relationships, and how societal framing and masking contribute to these risks. The episode also celebrates Amy’s new book, which has already received glowing feedback. It’s an insightful conversation that sheds light on the challenges autistic people face in forming safe, meaningful connections, and what we can do to support. 💬 Listen in to hear: Why autistic people may be more vulnerable in relationships The role of masking and societal expectations What interpersonal victimisation really means How Amy’s research is changing the conversation
In this episode, North East Autism Society’s Family Development Manager, Kerrie Highcock , speaks with Lauren Osbourne — a talented illustrator and author who has been self-employed since graduating with an MA in Design in 2022. Lauren shares her journey as an autistic creative, from illustrating six published books to writing her own, It’s Ok to Be Me . Together, they explore the highs and lows of self-employment, why it can be a meaningful path for autistic individuals, and how Lauren has built a career that works for her. With only 3 in 10 autistic people currently in employment, this conversation shines a light on alternative routes to success — and why creating your own path can be empowering. Whether you're autistic, a parent, educator, or employer, this episode offers valuable insight into how self-employment can support autistic strengths and authenticity.
In this episode, Kerrie Highcock, Family Development Manager at the North East Autism Society, is joined by Nic King—an autistic trainer, consultant, and founder of PANDAS Online . Nic is also a parent to two neurodivergent children and brings both lived and professional experience to today’s conversation. Together, they explore what it means for autistic young people to understand and embrace their identity. From discussing the importance of a positive autistic identity to when—and how—families might share an autism diagnosis, Nic offers thoughtful, compassionate insights rooted in authenticity and empowerment. Topics covered include: · What is a positive autistic identity? · Is there a “right” or “wrong” time to share a diagnosis? · How can families approach these conversations? · The story behind Neurobears —and why pandas? · Why a strengths-based model matters · Agency, autonomy, and future plans
James Henderson, 33, from Sunderland, opens up on our ‘This is Autism’ podcast about life before and after receiving his autism and ADHD diagnosis at 32. Struggling with anxiety, frustration, and mental health challenges, it was a single Instagram post that sparked James’s journey to understanding himself. “It described this rage that starts in your stomach and spreads through your whole body. I wasn’t violent — just so irritated all the time. That’s when I realised, I needed to do something.” James shares how therapy and support led him to his diagnosis, and helped him finally make sense of his experiences and who he is. Around 70–80% of autistic people experience mental health conditions, yet many face misdiagnosis, stigma, and a lack of proper support. In the UK, 70% of people in inpatient mental health hospitals are autistic. Let’s talk about autism, mental health, and why early support matters. Special thanks to host Alex Davies and Brothers of Purpose Podcast for producing this episode. Time codes for this episode: 2:00 Late diagnosis 2:23 The Instagram Moment 3:33 Therapy 6:30 Anxiety 11:00 Childhood 12:45 Diagnosis 18:00 Changes after diagnosis 20:00 Mental health 21:00 ADHD and medication 24:45 Life after diagnosis 28:00 School 33:00 Impact of diagnosis and work 37:30 Sense of justice 40:00 Communication 41:00 Masking 45:00 Perception
Just 1 in 5 autistic people are in employment - the worst rate of any disability group. Ashley Jones, Business Analyst for the North East Autism Society shares his experience of being diagnosed autistic, finding employment, supporting employers and helping others find their dream jobs. Episode breakdown: 1:50 Diagnosis 3.55 What does autism mean to you 7:55 Masking 9.28 Barriers to employment 11:00 Reasonable adjustments in the workplace 13.40 Positive disclosure 14:45 Common misconceptions 16:44 How can we make employment better
Research shows that getting the right support early on can make a big difference to a child’s experiences at school and their mental health further down the line. However, hundreds of thousands of children are currently on the waiting lists for an autism diagnosis, with their families often having to cope by themselves while they wait. In conversation with Kerrie Highcock, Family Development Manager at NEAS, Dr Helen Leonard and Mum, Lyndsey Morgan, explore how the process works, what parents can do, and why early support is so important. Find out more about our Little Stars appeal - www.ne-as.org.uk/little-stars
Katie Toner shares her journey of self-discovery, explaining how, before her diagnosis, she often felt anxious and out of place. After receiving her diagnosis, Katie realised she wasn’t broken, just different, and began to understand how to thrive in her unique way. Using her personal experiences, Katie now helps neurodivergent children and young people embrace their individuality and learn to communicate their needs. She founded Dark Sky Sleepovers , a business offering themed events, and The Wild Bunch , which provides training in sensory regulation. In this episode Katie talks to Kerrie Highcock, family development manager at NEAS about the diagnostic process and how it has shaped her life.
In this episode Kerrie Highcock, family development manager at NEAS chats to Amy Burgess, who was diagnosed with ADHD at 15 and as autistic at the age of 20. Amy is a psychology graduate who is passionate about sharing her experiences with others about what it is to be neurodivergent. Amy says she didn’t really understand who she was or how she experienced life until she lived away from home at university. This episode talks about transition from school to adulthood.
The theme for Mental Health Awareness Week is “Moving more for our mental health”. Dr Patrick Jachyra is someone who knows all about this. Patrick is assistant professor in sport and exercise sciences at Durham University and he researches how to support the physical activity and mental health of autistic people. This is all the more important since statistics show neurodivergent people experience more mental health challenges than the general population. Music: Aukestra
Join us for our Autism Acceptance special featuring two of our Autism Activists, Ed and Lucie and NEAS Family Development Manager, Kerrie Highcock. Ed, 18, and Lucie, 15, talk about Autism Acceptance and what it means to them. Music: Aukestra
Anecdotally, we've known for a while that autistic people are more likely to identify as LGBTQIA+ than non-autistic people, and research is now beginning to support this. This episode will explore the intersection between autistic and LGBTQIA+ identities, looking at the issues facing autistic people as they explore their sexuality and gender identity. Erin Ekins talks to our Family Development Manager Kerrie Highcock about her personal journey as a queer autistic person, and what professionals and parents can do to support autistic people on their journey. Music: Aukestra
This Christmas we're focusing on what the festive season means to autistic people and their families, and how to make the big day more inclusive. So, welcome to a Christmas takeover by pupils and teachers at our Mackenzie Thorpe Centre school in South Bank, Middlesbrough, as they explain what Christmas means to them .. from sinister Santa to stress-free nativity shows. Music: Aukestra
Sex and relationship coach Ness Cooper - herself autistic - talks about sex education for autistic adolescents and how parents can broach the topic with young people. She also dispels the myths around sex and autistic people in her discussion with our Family Development Kerrie Highcock. Music: Aukestra Editing: Niall Hegarty
Producer's note
Steal the structure. Not the show.
Keep the useful structure, then change the audience, point of view, and voice until the idea is unmistakably yours.
