エピソード

  • Raising Neurodivergent Teens in a Sexualised World: Conversations About Consent, Porn, and Identity with Cath Hakanson

    Raising Neurodivergent Teens in a Sexualised World: Conversations About Consent, Porn, and Identity with Cath Hakanson
    2026/03/11
    When you’re parenting an autistic or ADHD tween through puberty, sex education can feel like one more overwhelming thing you’re supposed to “get right” - without ever having been shown how. Today, Cliff talks with sexologist and late‑diagnosed autistic mum Cath Hakanson about what real‑world sex ed looks like in neurodivergent families: awkward, imperfect, and built from dozens of tiny, everyday moments. Cath shares how to be approachable, why neuro diverse kids often miss the unspoken rules around dating, consent, and boundaries, and how to use TV shows, music, and video games to gently teach about bodies, relationships, and porn. They explore the push‑pull of wanting to protect your child from hurt while knowing you have to loosen control and why your own uncomfortable history of “the talk” can actually make you a better guide. EPISODE REVEALS Giving your children information about sex is not going to be seen by them as giving them permission to have sex or make them over sexualised. Neurodivergent kids often miss the in‑between social cues, so sex ed must spell out subtext, boundaries, and body signals explicitly. Most teens will roll their eyes and shut you down when you talk about sex -that’s normal. You need to be gently persistent. Lots of everyday chats slowly sink in, so that when it really matters, they know they can come to you. Spending time having fun, enjoying the same shows, music and video games creates more opportunities to talk about, love, sex, and relationships e.g. a relationship in a show. Talking openly about porn and sexualised media, before and after kids see it, reduces shame and helps them make informed choices. Gradually loosening tech controls and life boundaries, rather than suddenly removing them, supports safer independence. BEST MOMENTS "As a parent, we have to be persistent. We've got to keep trying." "You would then think that talking about sex would make kids be more sexualized, but it actually sort of has a reverse effect, if anything, it sort of protects kids ." "Be askable. You're letting kids know, even though they're not responding half the time they still know you are willing and able to talk about this stuff." ABOUT THE GUEST https://sexedrescue.com RESOURCES Cliff´s book What To Do When Your Child Shuts Down - ⁠⁠https://amzn.eu/d/3trk6pw CLIFF´S SERVICES Are you struggling with anxiety and want support from someone who has been there and come out the other side? - Message Cliff here and take advantage of his founding members offer: https://m.me/cliff.kilmister Are you feeling overwhelmed with EHCP paperwork or are you stuck? Cliff, who has personally been through the process offers body-doubling and step-by-step support. You can contact him here - https://m.me/cliff.kilmister CONTACT ME Instagram: @cliff_kilmister08 Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/cliff.kilmister X - @KilmisterCliff YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@ParentingAutismandADHD HOST BIO Cliff Kilmister is a dedicated parent, advocate, and cat whisperer with firsthand experience raising a child with autism, ADHD, and Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD). Having navigated the challenges of school refusal, meltdowns, and sensory sensitivities, Cliff brings an empathetic, real-world perspective to the podcast. When he's not helping his child thrive, he’s dodging the evil stares of his three cats, who are plotting to take over the world (fortunately, they still haven’t figured out how to use the tin opener). Cliff offers practical advice, expert insights, and personal stories to help families facing similar struggles. Cliff is focused on connecting with professionals and networks to raise awareness about the growing need for the education system to adapt to the increasing neurodiverse population. Join the community on Patreon to share experiences, access exclusive content, and work together for change! This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/
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    1 時間 11 分
  • Creating a More Peaceful Home: How to Set The Tone and Gently Calm Things Down

    Creating a More Peaceful Home: How to Set The Tone and Gently Calm Things Down
    2026/03/04
    How do you respond when your child’s behaviour feels like pure chaos—defiance, aggression, shutdowns—and nothing you try seems to work? In this solo episode, Cliff unpacks a powerful reframe of that situation explaining why what you are seeing is not likely to be down to disobedience or bad parenting. Cliff shares practical ways to reduce flashpoints, calm things down and teach your children to improve their ability to regulate their emotions. If you've ever felt disconnected from your neurodivergent child, like everything always turns to chaos and it feels so hard to connect with them, this conversation is for you. EPISODE REVEALS Parents set the tone in the home. If they are calm, it becomes far easier for their children to remain calm and co-operative too. Be patient, wait for your child to calm down rather than trying to discuss issues immediately. This gives their nervous system time to re-regulate which makes it easier for them to listen, understand and be more receptive. Be mindful of how sensitive your child is. Use language that reassures them, this avoids triggering anxiety or defensiveness. Create space for conversation, e.g. device free dinner times when everyone can talk. Learn to understand your child´s nervous system - the load, the capacity, and how to recognise the signs of distress. This makes it easier for you to stop situations from spiralling out of control. BEST MOMENTS "Sometimes what looks like disobedience isn't disobedience, it's dysregulation." "You can't control your child, but what you can control your own emotions. When you become that resonance of calm and peace that eventually seeps in and helps with your connection with your child." "All these connections with your child can be fixed. But it doesn't start with the child. It starts with us." "Give them options. So, it's not a command." EPISODE RESOURCES ADHD and Autism Pre - Assessment Mini Course Pt 1 of 3 with Connor Johnson - https://podcasts.apple.com/es/podcast/adhd-and-autism-pre-assessment-mini-course-pt-1-of/id1810681675?i=1000725797148 – then listen to the next two episodes to complete this short course. RESOURCES Cliff´s book “What to Do When Your Child Shuts Down”- https://amzn.eu/d/00b6M7LQ CLIFF´S SERVICES Are you struggling with anxiety and want support from someone who has been there and come out the other side? - Message Cliff here and take advantage of his founding members offer: https://m.me/cliff.kilmister Are you feeling overwhelmed with EHCP paperwork or are you stuck? Cliff, who has personally been through the process offers body-doubling and step-by-step support. You can contact him here - https://m.me/cliff.kilmister CONTACT ME Instagram: @cliff_kilmister08 Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/cliff.kilmister X - @KilmisterCliff YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@ParentingAutismandADHD HOST BIO Cliff Kilmister is a dedicated parent, advocate, and cat whisperer with firsthand experience raising a child with autism, ADHD, and Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD). Having navigated the challenges of school refusal, meltdowns, and sensory sensitivities, Cliff brings an empathetic, real-world perspective to the podcast. When he's not helping his child thrive, he’s dodging the evil stares of his three cats, who are plotting to take over the world (fortunately, they still haven’t figured out how to use the tin opener). Cliff offers practical advice, expert insights, and personal stories to help families facing similar struggles. Cliff is focused on connecting with professionals and networks to raise awareness about the growing need for the education system to adapt to the increasing neurodiverse population. Join the community on Patreon to share experiences, access exclusive content, and work together for change! This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/
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    52 分
  • Thriving, Not Surviving: RSD, Burnout and Gentle ADHD Workarounds with Helen Valentino

    Thriving, Not Surviving: RSD, Burnout and Gentle ADHD Workarounds with Helen Valentino
    2026/02/25
    Today, I'm delighted to be joined by Helen Valentino, a late, diagnosed ADHD shamanic practitioner, cacao ceremony facilitator, and podcast host. It's such a pleasure to have Helen with me today. If you've experienced ADHD burnout, anxiety or struggled when your child is dysregulated and you want to better understand anxiety and neuro diversity. These conversations are for you, and remember, it always starts with knowing yourself and building the version of you that your child needs most. Let's dive in. EPISODE REVEALS Understanding your own ADHD and nervous system is the foundation. It is also excellent preparation for parenting and supporting neurodivergent children. Late diagnosis can transform a lifetime of shame into self‑acceptance, especially when traits have been weaponised against you. For Helen it was a revelation. Tiny practical tools - alarms, trackers, routines and carefully chosen words—help forgetful, fast brains to feel safer and more in control. Leaning on alcohol or drugs to numb the pain doesn´t work. Replace numbing strategies with therapy, spiritual practice, and supportive community, Self‑talk is medicine: using humour and Helen´s “control‑alt‑delete” method reframes mistakes without triggering more anxiety or shutdown. Words are far more powerful than we realise. Nature, ritual, and meditation can slow a whirlwind ADHD brain just enough to notice patterns and choose kinder responses next time. BEST MOMENTS "Words are really powerful … we use them to hurt people. We use them to make people feel better." "When you say negative things, you're just reinforcing the negative. If you say positive things, you're reinforcing the positive things." "When we go through these challenging times, is when we grow the most." “I can get half an hour's work done in 10 minutes. So, I don't want to lose that. It's becoming aware of where neurodivergence is as helpful or practical.” ABOUT THE GUEST www.inspiredhealing.co.uk WhatsApp 07971 798 462 Thriving not surviving podcast - https://shows.acast.com/thriving-not-surviving RESOURCES The Mandela Effect Book 1 - https://amzn.eu/d/0eiZdh7l Cliff´s book “What To Do When Your Child Shuts Down” - ⁠⁠https://amzn.eu/d/3trk6pw CLIFF´S SERVICES Are you struggling with anxiety and want support from someone who has been there and come out the other side? - Message Cliff here and take advantage of his founding members offer: https://m.me/cliff.kilmister Are you feeling overwhelmed with EHCP paperwork or are you stuck? Cliff, who has personally been through the process offers body-doubling and step-by-step support. You can contact him here - https://m.me/cliff.kilmister CONTACT ME Instagram: @cliff_kilmister08 Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/cliff.kilmister X - @KilmisterCliff YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@ParentingAutismandADHD HOST BIO Cliff Kilmister is a dedicated parent, advocate, and cat whisperer with firsthand experience raising a child with autism, ADHD, and Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD). Having navigated the challenges of school refusal, meltdowns, and sensory sensitivities, Cliff brings an empathetic, real-world perspective to the podcast. When he's not helping his child thrive, he’s dodging the evil stares of his three cats, who are plotting to take over the world (fortunately, they still haven’t figured out how to use the tin opener). Cliff offers practical advice, expert insights, and personal stories to help families facing similar struggles. Cliff is focused on connecting with professionals and networks to raise awareness about the growing need for the education system to adapt to the increasing neurodiverse population. Join the community on Patreon to share experiences, access exclusive content, and work together for change! This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/
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    1 時間 12 分
  • Cultivating The Ability to Be Calm: Managing ADHD Meltdowns, Triggers and Caregiver Overwhelm with Dolly Oksman

    Cultivating The Ability to Be Calm: Managing ADHD Meltdowns, Triggers and Caregiver Overwhelm with Dolly Oksman
    2026/02/18
    Today's episode is about stress, anxiety, the inner critic, and why regulation always starts with us as the adults. I'm delighted to be joined by the founder of Love. Heal.Believe. - Dolly Oksman, a special education teacher with more than a decade of experience supporting children with autism, and someone who is deeply passionate about self-regulation, self-care and helping caregivers stay calm in the middle of chaos. Together, we talk about classroom meltdowns, anticipating triggers, why mistakes are lessons, and how slowing down and working on ourselves can completely transform the way we support our children. If you've ever felt overwhelmed, hard on yourself, or unsure how to stay calm when your child is dysregulated, this conversation is for you. Let's dive in. EPISODE REVEALS Regulation always starts with the adult; our nervous system sets the tone for our children. You can teach calmness and structure life to enhance the ability of you and your child to return quickly to a state of calmness and stay there for longer. The use of structure, visual schedules, routines, breathing, and other relaxation techniques helps children feel safer and become less reactive. Anticipating triggers (noise, crowds, transitions) and planning ahead with headsets, fidgets and social stories reduces meltdowns. Self‑care is non‑negotiable; even 5–10 minutes a day for you protects your capacity to care for your child. Every mistake is feedback. Instead of attacking yourself, ask what you can do differently next time. BEST MOMENTS "Regulation starts with us. Stress and anxiety aren't the enemy, they're messengers, and if we're constantly overwhelmed or running on empty, it becomes very difficult to model calm for our children." "Every day is a learning process … we should not be hard on ourselves." ABOUT THE GUEST https://www.amazon.co.uk/Youve-Got-This-Navigating-Confidence/dp/B0FPBLYLD6 https://www.amazon.co.uk/Finding-Your-Inspirational-Quotes-Ponder/dp/B0CVXCHMHH https://www.lovehealbelieve.com email: dollyoxman@lovehealbelieve.com https://www.youtube.com/@dollytamposoksman CLIFF´S SERVICES AND BOOKS Are you struggling with anxiety and want support from someone who has been there and come out the other side? - Message Cliff here and take advantage of his founding members offer: https://m.me/cliff.kilmister Are you feeling overwhelmed with EHCP paperwork or are you stuck? Cliff, who has personally been through the process offers body-doubling and step-by-step support. You can contact him here - https://m.me/cliff.kilmister Cliff´s books on Amazon : https://www.amazon.co.uk/stores/Mr-Cliff-Kilmister/author/B0DN3XV3WP RESOURCES Cliff´s book “What To Do When Your Child Shuts Down” - ⁠⁠https://amzn.eu/d/3trk6pw CONTACT ME Instagram: @cliff_kilmister08 Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/cliff.kilmister X - @KilmisterCliff YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@ParentingAutismandADHD HOST BIO Cliff Kilmister is a dedicated parent, advocate, and cat whisperer with firsthand experience raising a child with autism, ADHD, and Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD). Having navigated the challenges of school refusal, meltdowns, and sensory sensitivities, Cliff brings an empathetic, real-world perspective to the podcast. When he's not helping his child thrive, he’s dodging the evil stares of his three cats, who are plotting to take over the world (fortunately, they still haven’t figured out how to use the tin opener). Cliff offers practical advice, expert insights, and personal stories to help families facing similar struggles. Cliff is focused on connecting with professionals and networks to raise awareness about the growing need for the education system to adapt to the increasing neurodiverse population. Join the community on Patreon to share experiences, access exclusive content, and work together for change! This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/
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    55 分
  • Children’s Mental Health Week: Helping Autistic Children Manage Overwhelm, Shutdowns and Big Emotions

    Children’s Mental Health Week: Helping Autistic Children Manage Overwhelm, Shutdowns and Big Emotions
    2026/02/11
    Today's episode is for Children's Mental Health Week. I'm delighted to be joined by my daughter Eva, and together, we're talking about belonging, feeling seen and heard, and what actually helps when children are struggling with overwhelm, shutdowns and big emotions. This is a gentle, honest conversation, not from theory, but from lived experience, about what children really need to feel safe, understood and supported. Our recent guests have all been echoing a theme of positive inner self talk, and it's been lovely to hear. It's a reminder that we all need to be kind to ourselves inwardly, especially when we're going through darker times. Sometimes what we need most is space and time to work through that, trusting that we will come out the other side. Neurodivergent children don't always understand the emotions they're feeling or have the words to explain. When we ask, what are you feeling? The honest answer is often, I don't know. That doesn't mean nothing's going on. It means they're still learning how to make sense of it. And today we're going to explore that a little bit together. EPISODE REVEALS Try not to be so hard on yourself. It’s difficult, but being gentler with yourself makes a real difference. You’re not alone. Even when you feel different or isolated, there are others who feel the same way or who can empathise with you. People who truly get you - when you find them you will know. Give yourself space and time to process things. It’s okay not to have the words yet. Understanding what you’re feeling can take time. When your child is melting down, stay kind and give them space. Let them know you’re there, don’t shout, and remember: if they’re already beating themselves up, they don’t need you to add to it. Remember that even on the darkest cloud days, the blue sky is still there behind the clouds. Tough times and feelings pass and change just like the weather—those heavy, bleak feelings will pass. BEST MOMENTS “(Good) mental health starts with feeling seen, heard, and accepted. And when you're in environments that don't understand you, it can be quite difficult.” "Fitting in somewhere, means feeling safe with a group of people or person, and being able to be yourself and fit in well with them." "It's hard to find people that are like me or who are a bit different than everyone else, but when you find them, you'll know." "Remember adults to look after yourselves as well." EVA´S LINKS Eva´s you tube channel is InspireWithUsYT https://www.youtube.com/@InspireWithUsYT RESOURCES Cliff´s book “What To Do When Your Child Shuts Down” - ⁠⁠https://amzn.eu/d/3trk6pw CONTACT ME Instagram: @cliff_kilmister08 Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/cliff.kilmister X - @KilmisterCliff YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@ParentingAutismandADHD HOST BIO Cliff Kilmister is a dedicated parent, advocate, and cat whisperer with firsthand experience raising a child with autism, ADHD, and Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD). Having navigated the challenges of school refusal, meltdowns, and sensory sensitivities, Cliff brings an empathetic, real-world perspective to the podcast. When he's not helping his child thrive, he’s dodging the evil stares of his three cats, who are plotting to take over the world (fortunately, they still haven’t figured out how to use the tin opener). Cliff offers practical advice, expert insights, and personal stories to help families facing similar struggles. Cliff is focused on connecting with professionals and networks to raise awareness about the growing need for the education system to adapt to the increasing neurodiverse population. Join the community on Patreon to share experiences, access exclusive content, and work together for change! This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/
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    20 分
  • Navigating the EHCP Maze: Gathering Effective Evidence and Managing Overwhelm with Helen Foster

    Navigating the EHCP Maze: Gathering Effective Evidence and Managing Overwhelm with Helen Foster
    2026/02/04
    Today, Cliff is joined by Helen Foster who shares her experiences, insights, and hard-earned lessons from navigating EHCP process with her young son. They talk honestly about recognising early signs, gathering evidence, managing overwhelm, using technology to help and what it's really like advocating for a non-verbal child within a system that can often feel confusing and stacked against families. This is a grounded, real-world conversation, not from theory, but from lived experience. And it's relevant for families and adults who want to make sense of their own neuro divergent experiences. EPISODE REVEALS Recognising and keeping a record of any stimming or behaviour that supports a diagnosis will help you later. Especially during the EHCP process. Videos, a well-kept behaviour log, medical reports, assessments, and other paperwork will all support a proper assessment and diagnosis. Really look after yourself. If you don´t you can´t be there to help your child. The earlier you start and get help the better it is for your child. Local authorities worry more about money and resources than what is best for an individual child. For them, good enough is an OK option. To counter this underlying attitude, you will need to continuously advocate for your child. BEST MOMENTS “Take care of yourself, because if you can't take care of yourself, you can't take care of your little one.” “No matter how insignificant you might think it is, note it down. Keep as much evidence as you can possibly collect to either get a formal diagnosis or to initiate an EHCP.” "I'm not just settling for good enough, which is what the local authority are happy to do." EPISODE RESOURCES Instead of piecing together advice from forums and PDFs to get through the EHCP process, use the SEND help App. It provides simple explanations for each step, hands on tips and a way to store and track the documentation you need https://send-help.app/ PREVIOUS RELEVANT EPISODES Dr. Mohita episode - https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/helping-the-brain-through-connecting-instead/id1810681675?i=1000735304072 Lara Barnes episode - https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/nutrition-movement-and-sensory-tools-for/id1810681675?i=1000738445182 CLIFF´S SERVICES Are you struggling with anxiety and want support from someone who has been there and come out the other side? - Message Cliff here and take advantage of his founding members offer: https://m.me/cliff.kilmister Are you feeling overwhelmed with EHCP paperwork or are you stuck? Cliff, who has personally been through the process offers body‑doubling and step‑by‑step support. You can contact him here - https://m.me/cliff.kilmister RESOURCES Cliff´s book “What To Do When Your Child Shuts Down” - ⁠⁠https://amzn.eu/d/3trk6pw CONTACT ME Instagram: @cliff_kilmister08 ⁠https://www.facebook.com/cliff.kilmister X - @KilmisterCliff https://www.youtube.com/@ParentingAutismandADHD HOST BIO Cliff Kilmister is a dedicated parent, advocate, and cat whisperer with firsthand experience raising a child with autism, ADHD, and Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD). Having navigated the challenges of school refusal, meltdowns, and sensory sensitivities, Cliff brings an empathetic, real-world perspective to the podcast. When he's not helping his child thrive, he’s dodging the evil stares of his three cats, who are plotting to take over the world (fortunately, they still haven’t figured out how to use the tin opener). Cliff offers practical advice, expert insights, and personal stories to help families facing similar struggles. Cliff is focused on connecting with professionals and networks to raise awareness about the growing need for the education system to adapt to the increasing neurodiverse population. Join the community on Patreon to share experiences, access exclusive content, and work together for change! This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/
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    1 時間 2 分
  • What Really Helps Neurodivergent People in the Workplace with Andy Ryan

    What Really Helps Neurodivergent People in the Workplace with Andy Ryan
    2026/01/28
    Today. I'm joined by Andy Ryan, a late, diagnosed autistic professional who works with organisations to help them better understand support and value neurodivergent people in the workplace. In this conversation, we talk about masking, burnout, psychological safety, leadership and why so many work environments unintentionally make life harder for neurodivergent people, even when the intention is good. This is an honest, practical discussion about what actually is effective, not expensive fixes, but small mindset shifts that change everything. EPISODE REVEALS Many neurodivergent people are very capable, but they burn out in environments that are built for consistency, control, and predictability, instead of for flexibility, trust, and psychological safety. The practical changes that really help at work are often small and low-cost. They include softer lighting, reduced background noise, clearer written communication, shorter and better-structured meetings, and managers who check in on how you work best rather than assuming. You are likely to have to help your manager and work mates to understand what neurodivergence is and what helps. Start by asking for micro-accommodations rather than huge adjustments. Share your communication preferences e.g. email vs face to face, why you need a quieter desk area, work better from home or some flexibility when it comes to start times and would maybe like access to a buddy or mentor. Highlight your strengths and how you can help your manager and work mates. Show that you are a team player. As well as sharing what can derail you. Try to find work in workplaces that already work in a way that suits you. Smaller organizations are often a good choice. Make things easier for yourself by building a career in a field that you are passionate about. BEST MOMENTS "The most meaningful changes are not expensive; they are not huge." "One of my team, he told me had Asperger's. He was one of my best engineers." "My experience is that organisations are very, very good at taking those good things and not so good accommodating the challenges." "You can't do any of this work unless your decision makers and your managers really know what neuro divergence is." "For young, neurodivergent people the most important thing is finding what you're passionate at and then doggedly finding a career in that." ABOUT THE GUEST www.irregulartraining.co.uk, email - hello@irregulartraining.co.uk linkedin.com/in/andy-ryan-58452719 RESOURCES Cliff´s book “What To Do When Your Child Shuts Down” - ⁠⁠https://amzn.eu/d/3trk6pw CONTACT ME Instagram: @cliff_kilmister08 Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/cliff.kilmister X - @KilmisterCliff YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@ParentingAutismandADHD HOST BIO Cliff Kilmister is a dedicated parent, advocate, and cat whisperer with firsthand experience raising a child with autism, ADHD, and Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD). Having navigated the challenges of school refusal, meltdowns, and sensory sensitivities, Cliff brings an empathetic, real-world perspective to the podcast. When he's not helping his child thrive, he’s dodging the evil stares of his three cats, who are plotting to take over the world (fortunately, they still haven’t figured out how to use the tin opener). Cliff offers practical advice, expert insights, and personal stories to help families facing similar struggles. Cliff is focused on connecting with professionals and networks to raise awareness about the growing need for the education system to adapt to the increasing neurodiverse population. Join the community on Patreon to share experiences, access exclusive content, and work together for change! This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/
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    52 分
  • Nurture Kindness, Confidence and Self-compassion with Kathryn Lovewell of the Booster Way

    Nurture Kindness, Confidence and Self-compassion with Kathryn Lovewell of the Booster Way
    2026/01/21
    This episode is going to be a little different because I co**ed up. I forgot to press record at the start and instead of cutting it out, we've kept it in, because that moment is exactly what today's conversation is about. It's such a pleasure for me to welcome Kathryn Lovewell from kind mind Academy, and we're talking about anxiety, the inner critic and self-compassion. Whether you are an adult or a child, it´s important to think about how we speak to ourselves when things go wrong. So, what you're about to hear isn't polished, it's real, and it perfectly demonstrates what Kathryn teaches. EPISODE REVEALS Booster and Crusher give families a shared language for inner voices: Booster is the warm, encouraging voice that builds confidence; Crusher is the harsh critic that fuels shame and shutdown. You can turn Booster up and turn Crusher down. Parents’ own self-talk and reactions model either Booster or Crusher for their kids, making family-wide self-compassion language a powerful way to build resilience together. Kathryn’s three-step “Booster Break” - name the struggle, remember common humanity, respond with kindness - is a fast, practical tool for calming the nervous system in tough moments. BEST MOMENTS "If we listen to Crusher long enough, which is my invention of my inner critic, it can lead to depression, anxiety and really dark places." "We shouldn't need to justify who we are and how we show up as humans. What we do need to do is make sure that when we go to bed, we like the person in the mirror." ABOUT THE GUESTS Kathryn Lovewell is the founder of Kind Mind Academy, creator of The Booster Way®, and a Senior Certified Mindful Self-Compassion teacher. She specialises in helping children, parents, and educators tame the inner critic and grow self-compassion, through her books The Little Book of Self-Compassion and The Voices in My Head! and her family-focused Booster tools. A former teacher who has worked across schools, prisons, and community settings in the UK, USA, and Australia, Kathryn now offers compassion resilience coaching, runs programmes for families and women, and speaks internationally on emotional wellbeing. www.KindMindAcademy.com www.TheBoosterWay.com TheBoosterWayCommunity.com Curious to know how kind you are to yourself? Take a quick Self Kindness Quiz online and discover for yourself - www.SelfKindnessQuiz.com Connect with Kathryn: linkedin.com/in/kathrynlovewell www.YouTube.com/KindMindAcademy https://www.instagram.com/KathrynLovewell https://www.instagram.com/KindMindAcademy https://www.instagram.com/TheBoosterWay “The voices in my head” book - https://amzn.eu/d/g6laOjP Eva’s channel - https://www.youtube.com/shorts/-sb6ecqBJk4 https://www.youtube.com/@InspireWithUsYT RESOURCES Cliff´s book “What To Do When Your Child Shuts Down” - ⁠⁠https://amzn.eu/d/3trk6pw CONTACT ME Instagram: @cliff_kilmister08 Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/cliff.kilmister X - @KilmisterCliff YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@ParentingAutismandADHD HOST BIO Cliff Kilmister is a dedicated parent, advocate, and cat whisperer with firsthand experience raising a child with autism, ADHD, and Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD). Having navigated the challenges of school refusal, meltdowns, and sensory sensitivities, Cliff brings an empathetic, real-world perspective to the podcast. When he's not helping his child thrive, he’s dodging the evil stares of his three cats, who are plotting to take over the world (fortunately, they still haven’t figured out how to use the tin opener). Cliff offers practical advice, expert insights, and personal stories to help families facing similar struggles. Cliff is focused on connecting with professionals and networks to raise awareness about the growing need for the education system to adapt to the increasing neurodiverse population. Join the community on Patreon to share experiences, access exclusive content, and work together for change!
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    1 時間 10 分