New year, new name, same heart. On this New Year’s Day episode, it’s just Greer and Chris having a real, relaxed chat about what’s coming in 2026 for their neurodivergent family and the community they’re building. If you’re craving more calm, more support, and more “oh, it’s not just me” moments, this one is for you. You’ll hear from Greer Jones, podcast host and neuro-affirming coach, alongside Chris (Greer’s husband and co-builder behind the scenes) as they talk through what’s next for the podcast and the bigger mission: helping neurodivergent families feel less alone in the everyday. In this episode, we talk about: The podcast rename to Neurodivergent Conversations and why it helps more neurodivergent parents find this space The vision for 2026: more time as a family, more momentum, and more community-led growth A 3-day virtual summit planned for May (dates coming soon) with experts on the real-life topics neurodivergent families face The launch of the Exhausted to Empowered Collective, including the course, weekly calls, and an app-based community Why tiny, realistic changes matter, and how to actually apply what you learn to your own life Greer’s upcoming book for parents who feel like typical parenting advice just does not fit If you’ve ever thought, “Why does motherhood feel so hard for me?” or “I just want a plan that works for our family,” you’re in the right place. GET THE LINKS Check out the refreshed website Learn about the Exhausted to Empowered Collective Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Have you ever stared at a simple decision and suddenly it feels weirdly massive? Like your brain is running every possible outcome at full volume, and now you are frozen. In this episode, we talk about why ADHD decision making can feel so heavy, how decision fatigue builds faster, and what to do when you hit that stuck loop. Greer is joined by Brooke Schnittman (ADHD coach and creator in the ADHD space) for a real, relatable conversation about decision paralysis, dopamine, and the day to day overwhelm that so many neurodivergent parents and adults carry. In this conversation, you will hear: Why ADHD can make every option feel equally urgent, especially with inattentive ADHD, and why even “small” choices can feel high stakes A simple way to sort “big vs small” decisions by anchoring back to your goals, plus why accountability matters when your brain forgets the goal exists (hello, object permanence) What Brooke calls the ADHD disruption spiral, and why you cannot logic your way out when you are emotionally dysregulated Brooke’s AIR reset (Acknowledge, Interrupt, Redirect) for getting out of freeze mode with a tiny next step that actually feels doable Decision fatigue explained in plain language: how hundreds of daily choices drain fuel faster, why it is not laziness, and how routines can reduce the load over time If you have ever felt shame about how long it takes you to decide, or you rely on “systems” just to stay afloat, this one will make you feel seen and give you something practical to try today. Find Brooke on instagram or her websiteSign up to our newsletter where we continue the conversation along with sharing helpful resources and techniques tried out by parents and professionals in the neurodiverse world. You can know get the episodes on YouTube! Click here to subscribe. Follow the show on all the socials @theunfinishedidea - look for the brain! Instagram Facebook LinkedIn TikTok Website Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Motherhood changes everything — your routines, your energy, and especially your friendships. As life gets busier and capacity feels smaller, many moms wonder: how do I stay connected when I barely have time for myself? In this heartfelt and practical episode, Greer sits down with Stephanie May Wilson — author, speaker, and trusted friendship mentor — to talk about how friendships evolve during motherhood and why authentic community matters now more than ever. A mom of twin girls, Stephanie shares her real-life experiences of navigating the early, overwhelming days of motherhood, offering honest encouragement and simple, doable ways to nurture connection even when life feels full. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why friendship is essential for moms’ mental and emotional health How to stay connected when energy and time are limited Creative ways to blend motherhood and friendship Why “small moments” can sustain meaningful relationships How modelling healthy friendships benefits your children This episode is for every mom craving connection and reassurance that you’re not alone — real community is still possible, even in the busiest season of motherhood. LINKS Follow Stephanie May Listen to Girls Night Join the Unfinished Community WhatsApp. Where you can share your everyday joys, struggles, and differences! Click here to join. Sign up to our newsletter where we continue the conversation along with sharing helpful resources and techniques tried out by parents and professionals in the neurodiverse world. You can know get the episodes on YouTube! Click here to subscribe. Follow the show on all the socials @theunfinishedidea - look for the brain! Instagram Facebook LinkedIn TikTok Website Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What if one small moment of compassion could change an entire day for a neurodivergent child—or their parent? So many ND families live with daily overwhelm, meltdowns in public, invisible disabilities, and the feeling of not being understood. In today’s episode, we ask: What does it really look like to “see” neurodivergent families in a world that often doesn’t? I’m joined by Carlos Whittaker—author, speaker, storyteller, and champion of walking with people instead of standing on issues. Carlos shares how choosing compassion over judgement builds bridges and creates true community, especially for neurodivergent families. Together, we talk about: The power of being seen and why ND families need it most How to support a parent during a public meltdown (what to do + what NOT to say) What small actions look like when you want to “walk with people” Parenting differently, shrinking social circles, and finding your village Hope, healing, and why we don’t need to be “fixed” to move forward Simple ways anyone can make the world more inclusive for ND kids and parents Connect with Carlos Whittaker on Instagram: @loswhit Check out Carlos’s books, courses & community CTA: Please donate today at MercyShips.org/podcast Visit OmahaSteaks.com for 50% off sitewide during their Sizzle All the Way Sale. And for an extra $35 off, usepromo code FUN at checkout. Join the Unfinished Community WhatsApp. Where you can share your everyday joys, struggles, and differences! Click here to join.Sign up to our newsletter where we continue the conversation along with sharing helpful resources and techniques tried out by parents and professionals in the neurodiverse world. You can know get the episodes on YouTube! Click here to subscribe. Follow the show on all the socials @theunfinishedidea - look for the brain! Instagram Facebook LinkedIn TikTok Website Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What happens when the people around you don’t have honest conversations about your child’s needs — and what happens when they do? In this fun, real, and deeply relatable episode, Greer is joined by Natalie and Victoria, hosts of The Autism Mums Podcast, for a conversation packed with humour, lived experience, and practical wisdom. Both raising autistic children with unique needs, Natalie and Victoria share their perspectives on navigating school systems, managing family dynamics, and celebrating the special interests that bring their children joy. From school struggles and support gaps to honest conversations with educators and family members, this episode will resonate with every parent navigating autism parenting in a world that isn’t always built for their children. In This Episode, We Talk About: Navigating school challenges — routines, support gaps, and trust issues Joys of seeing children thrive through special interests and routine Meeting “your people” and finding community Honest conversations with schools and family members Hacks for family gatherings that actually work Embracing differences and recognizing autistic strengths LINKS: Listen to the Autism Mum Podcast Join the Unfinished Community WhatsApp. Where you can share your everyday joys, struggles, and differences! Click here to join.Sign up to our newsletter where we continue the conversation along with sharing helpful resources and techniques tried out by parents and professionals in the neurodiverse world. You can know get the episodes on YouTube! Click here to subscribe. Follow the show on all the socials @theunfinishedidea - look for the brain! Instagram Facebook LinkedIn TikTok Website Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What happens when the school supports disappear after graduation? For many autistic adults, the transition to adulthood brings new challenges — independence, employment, and identity — often without the same guidance schools once provided. But it doesn’t have to be that way. In this inspiring and practical episode, Greer sits down with Sandra Worth, mom of an autistic adult and leader at My Autism Connection (MAC) in Florida. Sandra shares how her organization empowers autistic adults through skill-building programs, community partnerships, and innovative initiatives that bridge the gap between school and real life. In this episode, you’ll learn: How MAC supports autistic adults through community and connection Real-world programs that teach driving, job, and life skills How partnerships with law enforcement are creating safer interactions The impact of autism ID cards and statewide officer training What late-diagnosed adults can gain from peer support networks Whether you’re a parent, professional, or autistic adult yourself, this episode offers hope, direction, and practical examples of what true inclusion looks like beyond the school years. LINKS: Check out MAC Join the Unfinished Community WhatsApp. Where you can share your everyday joys, struggles, and differences! Click here to join. Sign up to our newsletter where we continue the conversation along with sharing helpful resources and techniques tried out by parents and professionals in the neurodiverse world. You can know get the episodes on YouTube! Click here to subscribe. Follow the show on all the socials @theunfinishedidea - look for the brain! Instagram Facebook LinkedIn TikTok Website Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What happens when two people love each other deeply — but speak completely different communication languages? For many neurodivergent couples, especially those navigating ADHD and Autism dynamics, communication can be both a struggle and a source of deep connection. In this honest and practical episode, Greer sits down with Avy — a communication coach and neurodivergent advocate who helps neurodivergent and mixed ND–NT couples build authentic, sustainable ways of connecting. Together, they unpack real-life communication strategies, mindset shifts, and honest moments that help couples bridge differences, reduce misunderstandings, and create emotional safety — even on the hard days. In this episode, you’ll learn: How ADHD and Autism shape communication styles in relationships What spoon theory teaches us about energy and conflict Why specificity is key when asking for help or support How “reflecting tone” can transform emotional understanding How curiosity and authenticity foster lasting connection Whether you’re in a neurodivergent relationship or simply want to communicate with more empathy, this episode is full of actionable tools and hope-filled insight. LINKS: Join the Unfinished Community WhatsApp. Where you can share your everyday joys, struggles, and differences! Click here to join. Sign up to our newsletter where we continue the conversation along with sharing helpful resources and techniques tried out by parents and professionals in the neurodiverse world. You can know get the episodes on YouTube! Click here to subscribe. Follow the show on all the socials @theunfinishedidea - look for the brain! Instagram Facebook LinkedIn TikTok Website Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What happens when the professional helping others with ADHD realizes… she has it too? After years of supporting ADHDers as a psychologist, Dr. Janina Maschke experienced her own “aha” moment — a late ADHD diagnosis that changed everything. In this powerful and eye-opening episode, Greer sits down with Dr. Janina Maschke — psychologist, ADHD coach, researcher, and author of A Feminist Guide to ADHD. Together, they unpack how ADHD often looks different in women, the role of hormones and masking, and why so many women don’t get diagnosed until adulthood. Blending clinical insight with lived experience, Dr. Maschke shares practical tools for managing overwhelm, setting boundaries, and reframing ADHD as a different way of thinking — not a broken one. In this episode, you’ll learn: How ADHD presents differently in women Why masking and hormones delay diagnosis Real-life strategies for preventing burnout and emotional overload How to set boundaries and respond with intention Why reframing ADHD can transform how you see yourself and others Whether you’re newly diagnosed or supporting someone who is, this episode offers compassion, validation, and practical next steps for thriving with ADHD. LINKS: Join the Unfinished Community WhatsApp. Where you can share your everyday joys, struggles, and differences! Click here to join. Sign up to our newsletter where we continue the conversation along with sharing helpful resources and techniques tried out by parents and professionals in the neurodiverse world. You can know get the episodes on YouTube! Click here to subscribe. Follow the show on all the socials @theunfinishedidea - look for the brain! Instagram Facebook LinkedIn TikTok Website Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What happens when two Greers sit down to talk about autism, parenting, and the truth about gut health? Between misinformation online and the pressure parents face to “do it all,” this conversation brings clarity, compassion, and science back into focus. n this honest and empowering episode, Greer Jones is joined by Greer McGuinness, a registered dietitian, autism mom, and researcher dedicated to helping families understand the real connection between gut health and autism. Together, they explore what evidence-based biomedical interventions look like in everyday life — and how parents can make meaningful changes without burnout or guilt. In this episode, you’ll learn: What current research says about gut health and autism How to start small with realistic dietary and environmental changes Common nutrition myths and what actually helps Ways to support yourself while parenting through overwhelm Why compassion and community matter as much as science This episode is a breath of fresh air for parents feeling overwhelmed by “all the things.” You don’t need perfection — just progress, understanding, and a supportive community. LINKS: Join the Unfinished Community WhatsApp. Where you can share your everyday joys, struggles, and differences! Click here to join. Sign up to our newsletter where we continue the conversation along with sharing helpful resources and techniques tried out by parents and professionals in the neurodiverse world. You can know get the episodes on YouTube! Click here to subscribe. Follow the show on all the socials @theunfinishedidea - look for the brain! Instagram Facebook LinkedIn TikTok Website Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What happens when two seasoned autism moms sit down and share everything — the meltdowns, the victories, and the toothbrush hunts that never seem to end? This conversation is raw, real, and filled with laughter — a masterclass in resilience, advocacy, and finding joy in the chaos of parenting neurodivergent kids. In this powerful episode, Greer is joined by Brittney and Tash from the Mom’s Talk Autism podcast — two brilliant, hilarious, and experienced moms who have navigated every stage of the autism parenting journey. Together, they talk honestly about what they’ve learned through years of advocacy, growth, and grace. In this episode, you’ll hear: The difference between early diagnosis years and seasoned parenting How schools, systems, and culture shape advocacy The emotional load of raising neurodivergent children Why flexibility and humour are survival tools How community and shared stories help parents feel less alone Whether you’re just starting out or deep in the parenting trenches, this episode is a reminder that we learn, grow, and adapt best when we do it together. LINKS: Listen to Moms talk Autism Pod Join the Unfinished Community WhatsApp. Where you can share your everyday joys, struggles, and differences! Click here to join. Sign up to our newsletter where we continue the conversation along with sharing helpful resources and techniques tried out by parents and professionals in the neurodiverse world. You can know get the episodes on YouTube! Click here to subscribe. Follow the show on all the socials @theunfinishedidea - look for the brain! Instagram Facebook LinkedIn TikTok Website Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

CHECK OUT THE UNFINISHED RESOURCES- pick up play guide, meltdown guide, and more! What’s it really like to grow up as the sibling of a neurodivergent child? While the world often focuses on parents and diagnoses, siblings live a story that’s rarely told — one of deep love, quiet resilience, and unspoken understanding. In this heartfelt conversation, Greer sits down with Ruby, a young woman whose life has been beautifully shaped by her brother Ewan, who is autistic. From childhood to adulthood, Ruby has learned empathy, adaptability, and the power of advocacy — lessons she now shares online to support other families walking a similar path. In this episode, you’ll hear: What it’s really like growing up with an autistic sibling How Ruby balanced her own needs with her family’s The importance of including and supporting siblings How social media became a space for awareness and connection Why kindness and understanding can change how we view neurodiversity This conversation shines a light on the often-overlooked sibling perspective — reminding us that love, compassion, and inclusion begin at home. LINKSFollow Ruby’s sibling journey Join the Unfinished Community WhatsApp. Where you can share your everyday joys, struggles, and differences! Click here to join. Sign up to our newsletter where we continue the conversation along with sharing helpful resources and techniques tried out by parents and professionals in the neurodiverse world. You can know get the episodes on YouTube! Click here to subscribe. Follow the show on all the socials @theunfinishedidea - look for the brain! Instagram Facebook LinkedIn TikTok Website Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What if dining out with your autistic child didn’t feel stressful — but safe, supported, and even joyful? In Myrtle Beach, that dream is already a reality. Thanks to one mom’s advocacy, this coastal city has become a national model for autism-friendly dining and travel. n this heartfelt episode, Greer talks with Jamie Daskalis — award-winning chef, restaurant owner, autism advocate, and mom to James — about how her son’s diagnosis inspired her to create spaces where every family feels welcome. Together, they unpack how Myrtle Beach became an autism-certified travel destination and what every community can learn from it. In this episode, you’ll hear: Jamie’s journey as a mom navigating autism and early intervention How small changes make restaurants and businesses more autism-friendly The story behind the Champion Autism Network and Myrtle Beach’s inclusion movement Simple, practical ways to build empathy and accessibility in your community Whether you’re a parent, business owner, or advocate, this episode is a reminder that inclusion starts with understanding — and one person’s voice can spark city-wide change. LINKS: Follow Chef Jamie Learn more about Jonny D's Join the Unfinished Community WhatsApp. Where you can share your everyday joys, struggles, and differences! Click here to join. Sign up to our newsletter where we continue the conversation along with sharing helpful resources and techniques tried out by parents and professionals in the neurodiverse world. You can know get the episodes on YouTube! Click here to subscribe. Follow the show on all the socials @theunfinishedidea - look for the brain! Instagram Facebook LinkedIn TikTok Website Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What happens when parenting looks completely different from what you imagined? From unexpected autism diagnoses to “everyday grief” and learning to let go of old expectations, raising neurodivergent children is a journey filled with both heartbreak and deep joy. If you’ve ever felt torn between parenting neurodivergent and neurotypical children, this conversation will feel like a warm hug and a deep exhale. In this heartfelt episode, Greer sits down with Leona, a mum raising a non-verbal autistic son with a learning disability and a neurotypical daughter. Together, they unpack the emotional reality of raising neurodivergent kids—the guilt, the grief, the resilience, and the surprising moments of joy that surface along the way. Leona shares her story with raw honesty, offering encouragement and practical wisdom for parents in the early stages of diagnosis and beyond. This episode is for every parent navigating the complex emotions that come with autism parenting and neurodivergent family life. In This Episode, We Talk About: Navigating two very different parenting experiences (neurodivergent + neurotypical siblings) The emotional waves of grief, guilt, and letting go of expectations Advocating in public spaces during meltdowns Building resilience over time and finding your community The power of small moments of solidarity between parents Topics Discussed: Autism parenting and diagnosis journeys Non-verbal autism and learning disabilities “Everyday grief” for parents of neurodivergent children Parenting neurodivergent and neurotypical siblings Emotional resilience for SEN parents Public meltdowns and advocacy phrases Potty training and developmental differences Finding community and letting go of “the norm” Key Takeaways: Grief doesn’t end at diagnosis — it appears in small, everyday moments. Acknowledging it without letting it consume you is key. Your child’s experience isn’t always your grief. They can thrive on their own terms. Parenting neurodivergent children means redefining family experiences, and that’s okay. Advocating in public gets easier with time. Pre-prepared phrases help you respond calmly in stressful moments. You’re not alone. A kind nod, shared glance, or moment of solidarity between parents can make a world of difference. LINKS: Follow Leona Join the Unfinished Community WhatsApp. Where you can share your everyday joys, struggles, and differences! Click here to join.Sign up to our newsletter where we continue the conversation along with sharing helpful resources and techniques tried out by parents and professionals in the neurodiverse world. You can know get the episodes on YouTube! Click here to subscribe. Follow the show on all the socials @theunfinishedidea - look for the brain! Instagram Facebook LinkedIn TikTok Website Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What a year it’s been! From late-night recordings and community building to tears, laughter, and so much learning — The Unfinished Idea just turned ONE!  This episode is a celebration — of growth, courage, connection, and the beautiful chaos that comes with being a neurodivergent family. Whether you’ve been here since episode one or are just joining, this is a moment to pause, reflect, and remember why this journey matters. Host Greer Jones is celebrating the first anniversary of The Unfinished Idea — a podcast that grew from a simple desire to find connection in the neurodiverse world into a thriving community of understanding and hope. In this milestone episode, Greer is joined by her husband Chris, who shares what he’s learned from being part of the journey behind the scenes. Together, they look back at the lessons, surprises, and moments that shaped the past year — and dream about what’s to come. In this episode: Greer reflects on the courage it takes to start something new and keep showing up. Chris shares what he’s learned about inclusion, patience, and thriving as a neurodivergent family. Greer reveals what she wants the world to know about neurodivergent people — and it’s something you won’t forget. Plus, you’ll hear the voices of listeners and guests sharing their own answers to that same question. TAKEWAYS “No” isn’t the worst thing that can happen — sometimes, the biggest growth comes from just asking. Neurodivergent families can and do thrive — sometimes it just takes a few tweaks, consistency, and community. The world tells us we’re a burden, but in truth, neurodivergent people make life easier — through innovation, love, and resilience. Love and connection don’t always need words; they’re often found in small gestures and moments of understanding. Every episode, every story, every shared experience reminds us: you’re not alone in this journey. Join the Unfinished Community WhatsApp. Where you can share your everyday joys, struggles, and differences! Click here to join.Sign up to our newsletter where we continue the conversation along with sharing helpful resources and techniques tried out by parents and professionals in the neurodiverse world. You can know get the episodes on YouTube! Click here to subscribe. Follow the show on all the socials @theunfinishedidea - look for the brain! Instagram Facebook LinkedIn TikTok Website Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Is mainstream school the only path—or just the default? For many neurodiverse children, traditional classrooms create more harm than growth. Kim shows us what education can look like when we step outside the box. Meet Kim, an educator and advocate who supports families choosing alternative education outside the mainstream system. As a parent herself, Kim has navigated the realities of EHCPs, home education, and creating learning environments where her neurodiverse child thrives. She offers practical wisdom, encouragement, and a fresh perspective on what education can (and should) be. TOPICS DISCUSSEDWhy school isn’t right for every childAlternative learning options in the UKThe role of EHCPs in accessing supportNeurodiverse learners and engagementLife skills as education (finance, citizenship, etc.)Redefining success outside mainstream systemsSupporting parents navigating decisionsThe power of listening and non-judgment TAKEAWAYS FROM THIS EPISODEEducation isn’t “one size fits all”—alternative paths are valid.Mental health and happiness must come before academics.Gaming, hobbies, and nontraditional activities can be true learning.Parents know their children best—trust your instincts.Support from family and friends looks like listening, not judging.Changing the environment—not the child—opens the door to thriving. Join the Unfinished Community WhatsApp. Where you can share your everyday joys, struggles, and differences! Click here to join.Sign up to our newsletter where we continue the conversation along with sharing helpful resources and techniques tried out by parents and professionals in the neurodiverse world. You can know get the episodes on YouTube! Click here to subscribe. Follow the show on all the socials @theunfinishedidea - look for the brain! Instagram Facebook LinkedIn TikTok Website Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Is ADHD just chaos—or could it actually be a different kind of order? For many families, ADHD looks like never-ending energy, constant ideas, and a pace of life others can’t imagine. But what if we stopped calling it chaos and started calling it engagement? Meet Dr. Kelly Cagle, an educator, researcher, mom, and late-diagnosed ADHD adult. With a PhD in Education and lived experience in a neurodiverse household, Kelly bridges research and real life. She shares not just professional insights but practical tools, faith-filled encouragement, and hope for families who feel “too much.”TOPICS DISCUSSEDADHD in both parenting and personal lifeMasking and coping strategiesChaos vs. engagement in neurodiverse familiesMovement and brain activation for focusParenting neurodivergent children with ADHDFaith and identity in navigating ADHDListening as a tool for clarityBuilding supportive communitiesTAKEAWAYS FROM THIS EPISODEADHD brains pay attention—just differently. Movement keeps focus alive.What looks like “chaos” is often deep engagement and imagination.Masking starts as early as age 3, shaping how girls especially present.Listening is key—at home, in friendships, and in advocacy.Families can (and should) redefine “normal” to fit their needs.ADHD is not brokenness; it’s another way of being fearfully and wonderfully made.LINKSConnect with Dr. Kelly Cagle Join the Unfinished Community WhatsApp. Where you can share your everyday joys, struggles, and differences! Click here to join.Sign up to our newsletter where we continue the conversation along with sharing helpful resources and techniques tried out by parents and professionals in the neurodiverse world. You can know get the episodes on YouTube! Click here to subscribe. Follow the show on all the socials @theunfinishedidea - look for the brain! Instagram Facebook LinkedIn TikTok Website Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

CHECK OUT THE UNFINISHED RESOURCES Did you know that nearly 20% of the world is neurodivergent—and that many don’t discover it until adulthood? For those of us navigating a late autism or ADHD diagnosis, the journey often feels like piecing together a puzzle we’ve been carrying all our lives. In this episode, we dive into what it really means to unmask, rebuild trust in yourself, and parent neurodivergent children with both compassion and clarity.Today’s guest, Michele Collier, is an autistic and ADHD mom raising two autistic children. Diagnosed later in life, Michele has walked the path of confusion, self-discovery, grief, and healing—and now she shares her wisdom openly to help others feel less alone.Together, we talk about:-What life looked like before Michele’s diagnosis-How parenting revealed even more about her neurodivergence-The difference between people-pleasing and masking-Practical tools for emotional regulation and self-trustTAKEAWAYS FROM THIS EPISODEDiscover why so many autistic and ADHD women go undiagnosed until adulthood—and how that shapes identity.Learn how parenting neurodivergent children can bring clarity, validation, and even healing to your own diagnosis journey.Understand the difference between people-pleasing and masking—and why it matters for self-trust.Explore Michele’s concept of the “sphere of comfort” and how expanding it slowly can help you thrive without burnout.Be reminded that awareness and acceptance are not the same—and that true acceptance has to come from others, not just us.Follow Michele Collier on Instagram Join the Unfinished Community WhatsApp. Where you can share your everyday joys, struggles, and differences! Click here to join.Sign up to our newsletter where we continue the conversation along with sharing helpful resources and techniques tried out by parents and professionals in the neurodiverse world. You can know get the episodes on YouTube! Click here to subscribe. Follow the show on all the socials @theunfinishedidea - look for the brain! Instagram Facebook LinkedIn TikTok Website Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this bonus episode of The Unfinished Idea, I’m diving into recent comments made by President Trump about autism and medications during pregnancy. His remarks suggest a link between autism and what a mother takes while pregnant — but research has not shown this to be true. It’s important to talk about why statements like this are harmful: they place unnecessary blame on mothers, fuel stigma, and create fear instead of hope and support. If you’re a mama who has ever questioned yourself or carried guilt, hear this: autism is not your fault. In this episode, I unpack: Why President Trump’s comments about autism and pregnancy are misleading and harmful The truth about autism and what research actually tells us How these narratives increase guilt and shame for moms Why it’s critical to move the conversation away from blame and toward support, dignity, and acceptance A reminder that you are not alone — whether you’re raising a neurodivergent child, loving a neurodivergent spouse, or navigating life yourself as a neurodivergent person At the end of the day, autism isn’t about fault or blame. It’s about people — our kids, our friends, our spouses, our families. They are valuable, capable, and deeply loved. If you’ve ever felt isolated or weighed down by guilt, I want this episode to remind you: you are not alone, and it’s not your fault. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

CHECK OUT UNFINISHED RESOURCES & MERCH! What if even the simplest request—like “put on your shoes”—triggered a fight-or-flight response? For families raising a child with Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA), this is everyday reality. Misunderstood, under-researched, and often dismissed, PDA presents unique challenges for both children and parents navigating a system that doesn’t always recognize it. Meet Jessie Townz, a mom raising a 7-year-old son with PDA. Jessie openly shares her journey of learning, adapting, and shifting her entire parenting mindset to meet her child’s needs. With lived experience and years of trial, error, and breakthroughs, Jessie brings both practical wisdom and encouragement to other parents navigating PDA.TOPICS DISCUSSEDWhat PDA (Pathological Demand Avoidance) really meansWhy PDA is not included in the DSM-5Common misunderstandings about PDA behaviorParenting strategies to reduce demands and calm dysregulationThe role of language and reframing requestsFamily dynamics and sibling impactsSupporting families with PDA childrenCultural and generational challenges in understanding PDATAKEAWAYS FROM THIS EPISODEPDA is a nervous system disability—children aren’t choosing not to comply, they often can’t.Language matters: shifting from “You must” to supportive phrasing helps reduce anxiety.Dysregulation can take 90 minutes or more for a child to recover from, making prevention key.Parents often face judgment from others who don’t understand PDA—education and communication are vital.The mindset shift of “not won’t, but can’t” is life-changing for families.Supporting siblings and extended family education helps create a calmer home environment. LINKS:Follow Jessie’s journey Join the Unfinished Community WhatsApp. Where you can share your everyday joys, struggles, and differences! Click here to join.Sign up to our newsletter where we continue the conversation along with sharing helpful resources and techniques tried out by parents and professionals in the neurodiverse world. You can know get the episodes on YouTube! Click here to subscribe. Follow the show on all the socials @theunfinishedidea - look for the brain! Instagram Facebook LinkedIn TikTok Website Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What if everything you thought was “just your personality” turned out to be ADHD? For many late-diagnosed adults, that lightbulb moment brings both relief and grief. Laurie’s story shines a light on what it means to navigate identity, unmasking, and daily life with ADHD in a world that often misunderstands neurodivergence. Meet Laurie Faulkner, a content creator and advocate who was diagnosed with ADHD at 23 after years of feeling “different.” Her journey—from drama school to impulsively moving countries, working for Disney as a princess, and now openly sharing her ADHD story online—offers a relatable and refreshing perspective. Laurie speaks candidly about masking, overstimulation, impulsivity, and the hacks that help her thrive. She brings authenticity, humor, and honesty to the conversation, making her a powerful voice for the late-diagnosed neurodivergent community.TOPICS DISCUSSEDLate ADHD diagnosis in adulthoodMasking and unmaskingOverstimulation and sensory sensitivitiesImpulsivity and decision-making with ADHDHacks for managing focus and routinesSupporting neurodivergent friends and adultsNeurodiversity as a spectrumStrengths and struggles of ADHD brainsTAKEAWAYS FROM THIS EPISODEADHD often goes unnoticed until adulthood, leaving many to feel “different” without knowing why.Masking can be exhausting—and unmasking is a process of rediscovering your true self.Impulsivity isn’t always a negative—sometimes it leads to incredible adventures and opportunities.Practical ADHD hacks include: doing tasks immediately, sticking to routines, and using tools like Google Calendar.Support for neurodivergent people looks like acceptance, honest communication, and accountability from those closest to them.Neurodivergence is a spectrum—every person’s experience is unique, and that diversity is a strength. Join the Unfinished Community WhatsApp. Where you can share your everyday joys, struggles, and differences! Click here to join.Sign up to our newsletter where we continue the conversation along with sharing helpful resources and techniques tried out by parents and professionals in the neurodiverse world. You can know get the episodes on YouTube! Click here to subscribe. Follow the show on all the socials @theunfinishedidea - look for the brain! Instagram Facebook LinkedIn TikTok Website Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices