The Autism Podcast

Join hosts Simeon Thompson and Dr Sophia Christophi as they return from a brief hiatus to welcome Ryan Parker, a wildlife conservationist, animal behaviourist, safari guide, and the founder of the foundation, Save the Animals, Save the World.

In this episode, Ryan shares his lifelong, innate connection to the natural world. Describing his early years mimicking animal movements and sounds, he explains how he intuitively "reads" ecosystems and feels a profound, almost electric connection to wildlife. The conversation explores how humans, despite our modern societal structures, remain a part of the natural order with deeply ingrained - though often ignored - survival instincts.

Much of the discussion focuses on the harsh realities of animal rescue and the exotic pet trade. Ryan unpacks the frustrating "Disneyfication" of wildlife, where people expect animals to act like cartoon characters and often treat exotic pets as status symbols rather than living beings. He shares incredible stories from his career, ranging from a close encounter with a 15-foot Nile crocodile and a curious sand tiger shark named Betty, to rescuing a baby herring gull from a shop roof.

The hosts and Ryan also dive into his wonderful work bringing rescued exotic animals - like snakes, tarantulas, and his Dalmatian, Bellatrix - to the London Autism Group Charity’s community cafes. Ryan reveals why neurodivergent individuals often form much stronger, more genuine connections with animals compared to neurotypical crowds. They discuss how the absence of complex human social rules and the pure, non-judgmental nature of animals create a safe space for autistic individuals to drop their guard. Finally, the trio emphasises the vital importance of "grounding" and stepping away from technology to be truly present in the imperfect beauty of the natural world.

This episode offers a profoundly unique perspective on our place within the ecosystem. Ryan’s passion, raw honesty, and unyielding respect for all life - from leopards to snails - provide a powerful reminder to disconnect from our screens and reconnect with our roots. Whether you are an animal lover, seeking ways to feel more present, or looking for a space free of human judgment, this conversation is an essential listen.

Recommended Resources & Mentions:

Save the Animals, Save the World: Ryan Parker's wildlife conservation and rescue foundation.

Voices of Neurodiversity: An Inclusive Encyclopedia by Chris Papadopoulos: A great read for autistic individuals and parents wanting to understand neurodivergent terminology.

London Autism Group Charity Community Cafes: The drop-in hubs mentioned in the episode where neurodivergent people can be themselves, and where Ryan frequently brings his rescued animals. Find out more at: londonautismgroupcharity.org

Our links:

The Autism Podcast instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_autism_podcast/

Simeon Thompson's instagram: https://www.instagram.com/Siimthompson

Dr Sophia Christophi's instagram: https://www.instagram.com/autistically.sophia

Guided Neurons: Simeon's personal YouTube channel dedicated to self-understanding and autistic insights: https://www.youtube.com/@GuidedNeurons

Please like, follow and subscribe to our social media channels to support us! It makes a big difference to our small but wonderful Charity.

Please also leave us a review (hopefully positive ;) ) on Apple Podcasts - this is a huge help for us.

And please consider donating to the London Autism Group Charity if you are enjoying this podcast that we produce and able to (simply go to https://donorbox.org/london-autism-group-charity-donations - thank you!)

Wider Charity links:

London Autism Group Charity website: londonautismgroupcharity.org

Facebook page: facebook.com/londonautismgroupcharity

London Autism Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/272747662886046/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/london-autism-group-charity

Twitter: https://twitter.com/lagcharity

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lagcharity

The Autism Podcast is produced by the London Autism Group Charity.Editorial leads - Dr Chris Papadopoulos, Mr James Gordon, Simeon Thompson and Dr Sophia Christophi

Join hosts Simeon Thompson and Dr Sophia Christophi as they welcome Vijay Panchal, a Watford-based neurodivergent artist, workshop facilitator, and public speaker who specializes in character design and visualizing emotions.

In this engaging episode, Vijay opens up about his journey to an adult diagnosis of AuDHD (Autism and ADHD). He candidly shares the challenges of enduring multi-year waiting lists, untangling co-occurring "grey area" health conditions like Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS) and Dysautonomia, and the profound closure that came from finally understanding his own neurology and unmasking his authentic self.

The conversation deeply explores the intersection of neurodivergence and culture. As a British Indian whose native tongue is Gujarati, Vijay highlights the complexities of navigating a culture that lacks a specific word for autism (often defaulting to words like "Mansik," meaning sickness of the mind). He discusses the impact of generational trauma, stigma, and the vital necessity of cross-cultural education and forging new, neuro-affirming language to break down these barriers.

Simeon, Sophia, and Vijay also delve into the powerful relationship between autism, visual thinking, and trauma. Vijay explains how art became his primary language and a vital tool for self-regulation, eventually leading him to facilitate art well-being workshops for others. The trio touches upon masking, overcoming the "negative inner critic," the concept of "flow state," and the importance of implementing holistic health practices - like mindfulness, somatics, and boundary setting - to combat autistic burnout.

Whether you are navigating your own complex diagnostic journey, looking for ways to embrace your unique potential, or interested in the healing power of art, Vijay’s perspective offers an incredibly hopeful and validating listen.

Vijay’s Recommended Resources & Mentions:

Vijay Panchal's Art & Workshops: To see Vijay’s portfolio, character designs, and learn more about his art well-being workshops, click here: VIJAY PANCHAL - FINE ARTIST - Workshops + Exhibitions

Problem Shared: The Right to Choose neurodevelopmental assessment service that assisted Vijay with his diagnosis: https://www.problemshared.net/

David Gray-Hammond (Emergent Divergence): An advocate, mentor, and LAGC associate mentioned by Vijay who does brilliant work in the fields of mental health, addiction, and neurodiversity: https://neurohubcommunity.org/

Genius Within / The Genius Finder: Founded by Dr. Nancy Doyle, a resource Vijay used for identifying neurodivergent needs and strengths in terms of advocacy and employment- https://geniuswithin.org/

Hatch Enterprise: The organization where Vijay completed the Launchpad program to develop his art well-being workshops: https://hatchenterprise.org/

Parallel Windsor: The inclusive festival where Vijay has facilitated his workshops: https://www.parallellifestyle.com/windsor

Our links:

The Autism Podcast instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_autism_podcast/

Simeon Thompson's instagram: https://www.instagram.com/Siimthompson

Dr Sophia Christophi's instagram: https://www.instagram.com/autistically.sophia

Guided Neurons: Simeon's personal YouTube channel dedicated to self-understanding and autistic insights: https://www.youtube.com/@GuidedNeurons

Please like, follow and subscribe to our social media channels to support us! It makes a big difference to our small but wonderful Charity.

Please also leave us a review (hopefully positive ;) ) on Apple Podcasts - this is a huge help for us.

And please consider donating to the London Autism Group Charity if you are enjoying this podcast that we produce and able to (simply go to https://cafdonate.cafonline.org/30442 - thank you!)

Wider Charity links:

London Autism Group Charity website: londonautismgroupcharity.org

Facebook page: facebook.com/londonautismgroupcharity

London Autism Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/272747662886046/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/london-autism-group-charity

Twitter: https://twitter.com/lagcharity

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lagcharity

The Autism Podcast is produced by the London Autism Group Charity.Editorial leads - Dr Chris Papadopoulos, Mr James Gordon, Simeon Thompson and Dr Sophia Christophi

Join hosts Simeon Thompson and Dr Sophia Christophi as they welcome Jill Corbyn, founder and director of the neurodivergent-led community interest company, Neurodiverse Connection.

In this insightful episode, Jill shares her journey of being late-discovered autistic, a realization that slowly emerged after working alongside phenomenal autistic colleagues and experiencing a severe period of burnout. The conversation explores how hearing the authentic, insider experiences of autistic people completely shifted her understanding of autism away from traditional, deficit-based medical models.

The hosts and Jill dive deep into the vital importance of lived experience leadership and neurodivergent-led training. They discuss the common assumptions professionals must unlearn, the power of using identity-first language, and the phenomenon of autistic people intuitively recognizing one another. Jill explains why we desperately need to move toward a model of needs-led care, rather than gatekeeping vital support behind years-long diagnostic waiting lists.

The discussion also tackles systemic advocacy and the challenges of being a lived-experience professional navigating complex systems like the NHS. Jill sheds light on her organization's role in the Culture of Care program, working to improve the sensory environments and support systems within mental health inpatient wards. Alongside this, the trio touches on the Double Empathy Problem, the Autistic Space Framework, dealing with the "scarcity mindset" during difficult times, and the regulating joy of special interests - including Jill’s beloved working cocker spaniel, Bat (Wombat).

This episode offers a deeply validating look at the power of community, self-understanding, and authentic connection. Jill’s passion for neurodivergent advocacy and transforming systemic care provides a hopeful roadmap for the future. Whether you are questioning your neurotype, looking for community support, or working in a professional care setting, this conversation is an essential listen.

Jill's Recommended Resources & Mentions:

Neurodiverse Connection: Jill's organization, offering neurodivergent-led training, resources, and community meetups (including groups for autistic men, Black autistic people, and late-discovered individuals). Visit at: https://ndconnection.co.uk/

The Double Empathy Reader edited by Damian Milton: The book discussed in the episode exploring the Double Empathy Problem. Jill and her colleague Kay contributed a chapter on embodied double empathy.

The Autistic SPACE Framework: Created by Autistic Doctors International, a framework for understanding and meeting autistic needs in healthcare and beyond.

The Man Who Mistook His Wife for a Hat by Oliver Sacks: Sophia's book recommendation from the episode.

Our links:

The Autism Podcast instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_autism_podcast/

Simeon Thompson's instagram: https://www.instagram.com/Siimthompson

Dr Sophia Christophi's instagram: https://www.instagram.com/autistically.sophia

Guided Neurons: Simeon's personal YouTube channel dedicated to self-understanding and autistic insights: https://www.youtube.com/@GuidedNeurons

Please like, follow and subscribe to our social media channels to support us! It makes a big difference to our small but wonderful Charity.

Please also leave us a review (hopefully positive ;) ) on Apple Podcasts - this is a huge help for us.

And please consider donating to the London Autism Group Charity if you are enjoying this podcast that we produce and able to (simply go to https://donorbox.org/london-autism-group-charity-donations - thank you!)

Wider Charity links:

London Autism Group Charity website: londonautismgroupcharity.org

Facebook page: facebook.com/londonautismgroupcharity

London Autism Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/272747662886046/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/london-autism-group-charity

Twitter: https://twitter.com/lagcharity

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lagcharity

The Autism Podcast is produced by the London Autism Group Charity.Editorial leads - Dr Chris Papadopoulos, Mr James Gordon, Simeon Thompson and Dr Sophia Christophi

Join hosts Simeon Thompson and Dr Sophia Christophi as they welcome Ellen Cole, founder of Little Seed Group, public speaker, and hedgehog rescuer :) In this candid and revealing episode, Ellen shares her complex journey of navigating life with multiple neurodivergences, including Autism, ADHD, Dyslexia, and Irlen Syndrome (Scotopic Sensitivity Syndrome).

Ellen recounts her initial resistance to the idea of being autistic- attempting to prove a friend wrong- only to discover a diagnosis that eventually helped her understand her life experiences. She provides a fascinating insight into how these co-existing conditions interact, describing how her autism often acts as a regulator for her ADHD, and the specific sensory challenges caused by Irlen Syndrome.

A significant portion of the conversation focuses on the intersection of neurodivergence and pregnancy. Ellen opens up about the difficulties she faced within the healthcare system, where professionals frequently mistook her neurodivergent traits for mental health issues. She discusses the sensory nightmare of hospital wards, the lack of support for breastfeeding, and the fight to advocate for her needs during a vulnerable time.

The discussion also tackles the harsh realities of the workplace. Ellen shares the grief and financial stress of losing the majority of her freelance clients after announcing her pregnancy, highlighting the precarious nature of employment for neurodivergent parents.

However, the episode is also filled with hope and practical strategies. Ellen shares the unique strengths of autistic parenting, from using hyper-focus to plan enriching activities for her daughter to creating sensory-friendly environments at home. She discusses the tools she uses to manage daily life, including the ‘Finch’ self-care app, using sunglasses to regulate melatonin, and how special interests like astrology and dressmaking provide essential dopamine hits.

This is a must-listen for anyone interested in the realities of neurodivergent parenthood, the impact of multiple diagnoses, and the power of self-advocacy.

Ellen’s Recommended Resources:

Little Seed Group: https://littleseedgroup.co.uk/

The Autism Discussion Page on Stress, Anxiety, Shutdowns and Meltdowns by Bill Nason: The book discussed in the episode that helped Ellen understand the female autistic experience.

Finch Care: A self-care widget app mentioned by Ellen for managing tasks and routines.

NABS: A charity offering support and therapy for those in the advertising and media industry: https://nabs.org.uk/

Ellen Cole's instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ellenjcole/

Our links:

The Autism Podcast instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_autism_podcast/Simeon Thompson's instagram: https://www.instagram.com/SiimthompsonDr Sophia Christophi's instagram: https://www.instagram.com/autistically.sophia

Please like, follow and subscribe to our social media channels to support us! It makes a big difference to our small but wonderful Charity.

Please also leave us a review (hopefully positive ;) ) on Apple Podcasts - this is a huge help for us.

And please consider donating to the London Autism Group Charity if you are enjoying this podcast that we produce and able to (simply go to https://donorbox.org/london-autism-group-charity-donations - thank you!)

Wider Charity links:

London Autism Group Charity website: londonautismgroupcharity.org

Facebook page: facebook.com/londonautismgroupcharity

London Autism Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/272747662886046/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/london-autism-group-charity

Twitter: https://twitter.com/lagcharity

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lagcharity

The Autism Podcast is produced by the London Autism Group Charity.

Editorial leads - Dr Chris Papadopoulos, Mr James Gordon, Simeon Thompson and Dr Sophia Christophi

Join hosts Simeon Thompson and Dr Sophia Christophi as they welcome Nic King, founder of Pandas Online and creator of the NeuroBears courses for autistic children and young people.

In this thoughtful and wide-ranging episode, Nic shares their journey of being autistic, ADHD, and dyslexic, and reflects on growing up in a family environment that was intuitively neuro-affirming long before the language of neurodiversity was widely used. The conversation explores how early acceptance, structure, and understanding can shape identity, reduce shame, and change how autistic people experience the world as they grow up.

Nic discusses the origins of Pandas Online and the development of NeuroBears, explaining why there is such a gap in child-focused, autistic-led resources that help young people understand their neurology in a neutral, non-deficit way. Nic also shares the thinking behind the much-loved bear analogies, used to explain autism, observation, and difference in ways that are accessible without being patronising.

Simeon, Sophia, and Nic delve into autistic friendships, loneliness, and connection, including the pressures of school environments, forced socialisation, and why shared interests often form the strongest foundations for meaningful relationships. The discussion touches on masking, the double empathy problem, and what genuine inclusion might look like if systems were designed around neurodivergent needs rather than compliance.

This episode offers a grounded and hopeful look at how understanding autism early, supporting autistic parents, and building community can make a real difference across generations.

Nic’s resources:
Pandas Online: https://www.pandasonline.org
NeuroBears courses: information available via the Pandas Online website

Our links:

The Autism Podcast instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_autism_podcast/Simeon Thompson's instagram: https://www.instagram.com/SiimthompsonDr Sophia Christophi's instagram: https://www.instagram.com/autistically.sophiaPlease like, follow and subscribe to our social media channels to support us! It makes a big difference to our small but wonderful Charity.

Please also leave us a review (hopefully positive ;) ) on Apple Podcasts - this is a huge help for us.

And please consider donating to the London Autism Group Charity if you are enjoying this podcast that we produce and able to (simply go to https://donorbox.org/london-autism-group-charity-donations - thank you!)

Wider Charity links:

London Autism Group Charity website: londonautismgroupcharity.org

Facebook page: facebook.com/londonautismgroupcharity

London Autism Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/272747662886046/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/london-autism-group-charity

Twitter: https://twitter.com/lagcharity

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lagcharity

The Autism Podcast is produced by the London Autism Group Charity.

Editorial leads - Dr Chris Papadopoulos, Mr James Gordon, Simeon Thompson and Dr Sophia Christophi