Let's Talk Neurodivergent Kids with Izzy Judd

As Let's Talk Neurodivergent Kids wraps up its first season, Izzy is joined by her husband, Harry Judd, to reflect on the lessons, moving moments, and helpful advice shared across the series. Plus, Izzy reads out messages from listeners whose lives the podcast has touched. Chapters: 01:00 - Series Reflections & Favourite Insights 04:00 - Eliza Fricker on PDA & The Power of Play 07:30 - Low Demand Parenting with Naomi Fisher 10:00 - Mental Health & Misdiagnosis: Ben Branson’s Story 14:30 - Parental Burnout & The ‘Fk It Bucket’** 17:45 - Magnesium Baths & Everyday Strategies with Lucinda Miller 20:00 - Listener Letters: Stories from the Inbox 35:00 - Learning Environments & The Power of Play 50:00 - Thank You & Season One Wrap-Up Lets Talk Neurodivergent Kids is a Viral Tribe Entertainment Production Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this episode, Izzy looks at the reality of living with Tourette Syndrome, far beyond the stereotypes. Izzy's joined by her brother Magnus, whose daughter was diagnosed at age 7, and Katie Skinner from Tourette’s Action. Together, they discuss stigma, self-discovery, intrusive thoughts, ADHD, school support, and how we can build a more compassionate world for neurodivergent children. NHS – Where to Get Help for Self-Harm The NHS provides guidance on seeking help for self-harm, including advice on speaking to a GP and accessing support services - link here Chapters: 02:32 – The dream: Acceptance and inclusion for those with Tourette’s 04:03 – Alma’s early symptoms and family response 07:21 – What Tourette Syndrome actually is (Katie explains) 11:29 – Misconceptions: Tourette’s is more than swearing 16:54 – Why suppressing tics can be harmful 19:56 – The social toll: Being forced to advocate 22:07 – Acceptance, trauma and breaking cycles 25:00 – Pain, isolation and the complexity beneath the tics 27:29 – School struggles: Inclusion, ignorance and the “What If” board 35:00 – Music, exercise and finding peace 40:00 – How Tourette’s Action can help families today 42:29 – Magnus's ADHD discovery and mental health journey 52:15 – The care gap: Lack of NHS services and support Lets Talk Neurodivergent Kids is a Viral Tribe Entertainment Production Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Are we expecting too much too soon from our youngest children, and what does School readiness really mean? In this episode, Izzy Judd is joined by Ruth Lue-Quee, also known online as My Mummy Teacher. Ruth is an Educational Consultant and the founder of MMT Play, an award-winning education & play resources brand based in the UK. As a highly qualified Educational Consultant and award-winning former Deputy Headteacher, Ruth brings extensive experience in both mainstream and Special Educational Needs education, with a particular focus on Early Years and Key Stage One. Learn more about Ruth's work - https://mmtplay.com/ Sign the Petition - https://petition.parliament.uk/petitions/729440 00:00 – What Are We Expecting From Our Kids? 02:00 – Ruth’s Story: From Teacher to Play Advocate 05:30 – Growing Up Loving Teaching 08:00 – The Big Jump Between Reception and Year 1 13:45 – The Controversial Comment About Four-Year-Olds 16:00 – What Being “Ready for School” Really Means 25:00 – Why Sitting Still Isn’t the Goal 34:30 – If Adults Can Move, Why Can’t Kids? 41:30 – Ruth’s Petition: Making Play Part of the Curriculum 49:00 – Final Thoughts: Let’s Do What’s Right for Children Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

What if the education system is failing the very kids who could change the world? In this episode Izzy Judd is joined by Kate Griggs, mum and founder of Made By Dyslexia, a charity that has been shifting the narrative on dyslexia and educating people on its strengths. This conversation is filled with practical insight, hope, and a strong message: difference is brilliant. More on Kate Griggs https://www.madebydyslexia.org/our-founder/ (00:11) – What dyslexia really means and why it's misunderstood (02:21) – Kate’s personal story: growing up in a dyslexic family (04:45) – The typical challenges and strengths of dyslexic children (06:50) – Why schools should change how they teach all kids (08:30) – How and when dyslexia can be diagnosed in children (10:15) – What to look for if you think your child is dyslexic (13:40) – Why many dyslexic children think they’re stupid (14:30) – Why so many entrepreneurs are dyslexic (15:55) – Dyslexic people working in British intelligence (GCHQ) (18:00) – Dyslexia in acting, music, and the arts (21:00) – How technology and AI help dyslexic learners (23:15) – Why standardised tests don’t work for dyslexic student (26:35) – The emotional toll of school on dyslexic children (29:00) – The dyslexic sperm bank stunt that went viral (46:30) – Kate’s message for the future of neurodivergent children Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

What if your child’s refusal to get dressed… meant they finally felt safe? In this episode Izzy Judd chats to clinical psychologist and bestselling author Dr Naomi Fisher about low demand parenting, why traditional discipline often backfires, how to parent when your child is in survival mode, and the critical importance of listening to a child’s “no.” 🔗 More on Dr Naomi Fisher: naomifisher.co.uk Chapters 01:47 – Naomi’s story: from psychologist to parenting trailblazer03:54 – Why parents feel so guilty—and why they shouldn’t06:48 – What is low demand parenting?08:31 – Pressure-sensitive children and why punishments fail10:46 – Trust, boundaries, and non-negotiables13:34 – How to handle getting dressed, shoes, and transitions15:37 – Why pressure-sensitive kids become powerful adults17:22 – “Kids weren’t like this in my day…” — Naomi’s take19:43 – Why school might actually be causing the anxiety26:56 – School anxiety vs general anxiety: understanding the difference31:49 – Why kids can't always explain what’s wrong33:46 – Emotional regulation and why teachers can’t do it alone35:32 – The post-school “regression” panic—and what it really means38:09 – Is there any kind of school that works? Naomi’s answer40:36 – The image mantra that helps parents stay grounded Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

How do you really support a neurodivergent child through the chaos of everyday life? In this episode, Izzy Judd chats to neurodivergent family coach and education consultant Kate Steer about her essential toolkit for parents, from meltdown mantras to school advocacy and sensory survival tips. 👉 Follow Kate on Instagram: @nurturedneurokids 👉 More resources: www.nurturedneurokids.com Chapters 00:00 Understanding Neurodivergent Families 02:45 The Meltdown Mantra: Navigating Emotional Overwhelm 05:52 The Importance of Environment in Meltdowns 08:33 Managing Meltdowns: Strategies for Parents 11:56 Proactive Parenting: Preparing for Challenges 14:45 Self-Regulation: Tools for Parents 17:48 Advocating for Your Child in School 24:29 Understanding Transitions: Supporting Change 38:19 Final Thoughts: Empowering Parents and Understanding Kids 👉 Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/letstalkndkids 👉 Email: hello@letstalkndkids.com Lets Talk Neurodivergent Kids is a Viral Tribe Entertainment Production Executive Producer: James Carpenter Production Coordinator: Vic Amott Video Editor & Social Media: Oliver Francis Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Play expert, author and educator Sophie David joins Izzy Judd to explore the rising tide of childhood anxiety, how the classroom is failing neurodivergent kids, and why play is essential for learning. With insights from her own parenting journey, Sophie shares simple, powerful ways to support children through anxiety, dysregulation, and rigid school systems. Follow Sophie on Instagram Chapters 00:00 Understanding Anxiety in Children 03:05 The Importance of Play in Learning 05:47 Navigating Neurodiversity and Parenting 08:57 The Role of Advocacy in Education 11:55 Innovative Teaching Methods 15:13 Creating Engaging Learning Environments 17:54 Flexibility in Education Systems 21:09 Addressing Masking in Neurodivergent Children 26:22 Understanding Masking in Children 30:11 The Importance of Open Communication with Teachers 33:36 Navigating Homework and Stress 37:17 The Impact of Anxiety on Children 41:43 Labeling Emotions and Open Conversations 46:18 Promoting Playful Learning 48:25 Deciding on Education Paths for Children 50:33 Future Aspirations for Neurodivergent Kids Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/letstalkndkids Email: hello@letstalkndkids.com Lets Talk Neurodivergent Kids is a Viral Tribe Entertainment Production Executive Producer: James Carpenter Production Coordinator: Vic Amott Video Editor & Social Media: Oliver Francis Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Why are so many neurodivergent girls slipping through the cracks, and what can we do to change that? In this episode, Izzy Judd is joined by best-selling author, ADHD coach and advocate, Leanne Maskell. They explore the emotional cost of late diagnoses, the difference in how boys and girls mask, how to support your child through hormonal changes, and why parenting neurodivergent kids requires rethinking everything we thought we knew. Content warning: This episode contains open discussions of childhood trauma, mental health struggles, suicidal thoughts, and sexual vulnerability. Please take care while listening, and pause or step away if anything feels too difficult. If you’ve been affected by any of the topics discussed, support is available. You can contact: Samaritans (UK): 116 123 or samaritans.org YoungMinds Parent Helpline: 0808 802 5544 NSPCC Childline (for under 19s): 0800 1111 or childline.org.uk Follow Leanne, here: https://www.instagram.com/leannemaskell/?hl=en Chapters: 1:10 Meet Leanne Maskell: Diagnoses That Changed Everything 4:25 What Childhood Felt Like When You’re ‘Too Much’ 9:44 Girls vs Boys: Masking, Makeup & Being ‘Good’ 14:50 Anger, Alcohol & Vulnerability 20:18 Periods, Hygiene & Sensory Struggles 25:31 Opening Presents ‘Wrong’ – And the Weight of Misunderstanding 29:12 How Acceptance Can Save Lives 32:07 Hormones, PMDD & the ADHD Cycle 40:23 When and How to Talk About Suicide 41:41 School Trauma & Primary to Secondary Struggles 47:20 Grooming, Dating & Why Critical Thinking is Key 51:21 Let’s Talk Screens: Tools or Threats? 56:47 Friendship, Boundaries & Teaching Agency 1:02:52 What Parents Can Model – And Why it Matters 1:07:59 Leanne’s Hopes for Neurodivergent Kids Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/letstalkndkids Email: hello@letstalkndkids.com Lets Talk Neurodivergent Kids is a Viral Tribe Entertainment Production Executive Producers: James Carpenter & Jon O’Donnell Production Coordinator: Vic Amott Video Editor: Alistair Nolan Social Media: Oliver Francis Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Feeding your child should be simple — but for some families, it’s a source of fear, judgment, and overwhelming anxiety. In this episode, Izzy Judd is joined by mum Michelle Jacques and occupational therapist Teresa Foley to discuss ARFID (Avoidant Restrictive Food Intake Disorder) — a misunderstood eating disorder often mistaken for picky eating. You can follow Teresa's work on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_feeding_therapist_/ 01:42 – Michelle’s Story: From Weaning to Yogurt-Only Diets11:47 – What is ARFID? Expert Explains the Diagnosis16:30 – When is it More Than Picky Eating?21:15 – Why Early Intervention Matters23:08 – How to Support Without Pressure27:44 – The Power of Acceptance and Quiet Progress32:05 – Getting Help: A Broken System and a Turning Point 37:07 – Impact on Siblings & Family Life 38:59 – Schools & Safe Eating Environments 43:38 – Working With Teens: Finding Their Motivation Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Izzy is joined by autism consultant, former speech therapist, and mum of three autistic adult children, Lisa Galley. Together, they chat about the often-overlooked emotional and physical toll of parental burnout, particularly when raising neurodivergent children. Lisa shares her personal journey through two burnout collapses, the moment she hit rock bottom, and how she rebuilt her life around micro moments of calm, the 'F-It bucket' and bedtime rituals. Find out more Lisa and her work: https://lisagalley.com/ Chapters 0:00 – Introduction to Parental Burnout2:04 – Meet Lisa Galley - Autism, Family & 30 Years of Insight6:45 – Burnout - Meltdowns, Exhaustion & Intuition15:00 – Mirroring, Trauma, and the Fight to Stay Regulated16:24 – Micro Moments: Building Capacity Through Tiny Acts21:01 – Letting Grief & Resentment Be Valid Emotions23:22 – The F** It Bucket: Letting Go of the Unimportant38:20 – Misunderstood Parenting: Judgement, Masking & Survival43:26 – Coping Tools That Help45:00 – What Burned-Out Parents Need to Hear Most46:36 – Guided Grounding: A Moment to Breathe Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/letstalkndkids Email: hello@letstalkndkids.com Lets Talk Neurodivergent Kids is a Viral Tribe Entertainment Production Executive Producers: James Carpenter & Jon O’Donnell Production Coordinator: Vic Amott Video Editor: Alistair Nolan Social Media: Oliver Francis Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

What happens when you finally get a name for your brain after 40 years of not knowing? This week, Izzy’s joined by Ben Branson - entrepreneur, dad, and founder of The Hidden 20% who shares his powerful story of being diagnosed with autism and ADHD in adulthood. Hear how that moment changed everything, from how he sees himself to how he parents his neurodivergent daughter. Find out why so many people are still missed by the system, how masking can hide the signs, and why Ben’s on a mission to close the gap for millions of others. This podcast contains discussions of adult themes, which some listeners may find distressing. Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/letstalkndkids Follow Ben on Instragram and find out more about his work: https://www.instagram.com/seedlip_ben Email: hello@letstalkndkids.com Lets Talk Neurodivergent Kids is a Viral Tribe Entertainment Production Executive Producers: James Carpenter & Jon O’Donnell Producer: Connor Gani Production Coordinator: Vic Amott Video Editor: Alistair Nolan Social Media: Oliver Francis Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Izzy is joined by Dr. Donia Fahim — a leading expert in speech and language therapy and behaviour analysis. Together, they explore the power of communication and share practical, compassionate ways to create inclusive environments at home and in schools. Topics include: when to discuss diagnosis with your child, techniques for communicating with non-speaking children, and how to empower and encourage self advocacy. You can find Dr Donia Fahim's book, here: https://doniafahim.com/book/ Chapters: 10:11 - The Role of Speech and Language Therapy 13:36 - Compassionate Communication & Listening 22:24 - Non-Speaking Children 27:08 - Supporting Siblings 35:34 - Encouraging Self-Advocacy 41:04 - How Schools Can Improve Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/letstalkndkids Email: hello@letstalkndkids.com Lets Talk Neurodivergent Kids is a Viral Tribe Entertainment Production Executive Producers: James Carpenter & Jon O’Donnell Producer: Connor Gani Production Coordinator: Vic Amott Video Editor: Alistair Nolan Social Media: Oliver Francis Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

What happens when your child begins to fall between the cracks? This week, fun-loving author and co-founder of SEND Reform England Lisa Lloyd joins Izzy for a candid conversation sharing her story of raising two neurodivergent children. You'll come away with an understanding of how the education system can better support your child. Plus, find out why even in the most challenging of times, resilience and vulnerability can be the light at the end of the tunnel. Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/letstalkndkids Email: hello@letstalkndkids.com Lets Talk Neurodivergent Kids is a Viral Tribe Entertainment Production Executive Producers: James Carpenter & Jon O’Donnell Producer: Connor Gani Production Coordinator: Vic Amott Video Editor: Alistair Nolan Social Media: Oliver Francis Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

How do certain foods affect the brain? And what should your child be eating more of? Izzy’s joined by nutrition guru Lucinda Miller, who’s spent over 25 years helping neurodivergent kids feel their best—starting with what’s on their plate. Find out just how important Zinc is and how to get it, why breakfast should take the crown, and how eggs could become your ultimate secret ingredient Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/letstalkndkids Email: hello@letstalkndkids.com Lets Talk Neurodivergent Kids is a Viral Tribe Entertainment Production Executive Producers: James Carpenter & Jon O’Donnell Producer: Connor Gani Production Coordinator: Vic Amott Video Editor: Alistair Nolan Social Media: Oliver Francis Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

What exactly is Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA), and how should you support a child with this profile? Izzy sits down with bestselling author, illustrator and advocate Eliza Fricker who has spent years working as a consultant for PDA, Autism and Learning. Discover how to adjust your child’s routines to allow for better decompression, why traditional rules don’t work in many neurodivergent households, and how humour can be a game-changer for empowering your child. Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/letstalkndkids Email: hello@letstalkndkids.com Lets Talk Neurodivergent Kids is a Viral Tribe Entertainment Production Executive Producers: James Carpenter & Jon O’Donnell Producer: Connor Gani Production Coordinator: Vic Amott Video Editor: Alistair Nolan Social Media: Oliver Francis Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Before we dive into the series, Izzy shares the reasons behind creating this podcast. She opens up about what inspired her, what she hopes you'll take away, and why these conversations matter so much to parents, carers and anyone wanting to better understand the world of raising a neurodivergent child. Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/letstalkndkids Email: hello@letstalkndkids.com Lets Talk Neurodivergent Kids is a Viral Tribe Entertainment Production Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Let’s Talk Neurodivergent Kids with Izzy Judd is a new weekly podcast for parents and carers who are raising neurodivergent children. After the success of Let’s Talk Fertility, Izzy is back… this time, opening up honest, relatable conversations about family life, support, and understanding. Each week, Izzy chats with brilliant experts, passionate advocates, and fellow parents to share real stories, helpful advice, and those “me too” moments we all need. This podcast is here to make you feel less alone and more confident, with solid gold tips you can actually use in everyday life. Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/letstalkndkids/reels/ Email: hello@letstalkndkids.com  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

To celebrate World Wellness Week Izzy talks to Acupuncture Master and Fertility Expert, Gerad Kite. Gerad's hollistic approach challenges us to question if we are functioning in an balanced way, living in the best way we possibly can.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In the final episode of this series, Izzy is joined by author, arts producer and adventure activist, Jessica Hepburn. Having been diagnosed with unexplained infertility and undergone eleven rounds of IVF, Jessica talks openly about how it feels to struggle to create the family you long for, and explains why she is dedicating this decade of her life to raising awareness of the subject. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this week’s episode Izzy is joined by Elle magazine’s beauty director and Times columnist, Sophie Beresiner. Sophie shares her own experience of infertility following cancer treatment and gives an open and heartfelt insight into her ongoing surrogacy journey. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices