Neuroshambles

Social Etiquette | Jo Matthews

How do you teach social etiquette to children who see the world differently? In this thought-provoking episode, Mark is joined once again by Jo Matthews to dig into the complexities of raising neurodivergent kids in a world obsessed with social norms.
From the minefield of “please” and “thank you” to eye contact, turn-taking and queuing, they explore how expectations clash with neurodivergent needs. Jo shares candid stories about her kids’ encounters with misunderstood rules, while Mark reflects on his own parenting blind spots.
It’s a funny, reflective, and emotionally honest conversation for any parent who’s felt judged in public - or struggled to explain why their child isn’t “being rude” - they're just being authentic.
An essential listen for fans of PDA parenting podcasts and autism parenting support - especially if you’ve ever been side-eyed at soft play.
 
LINKS TO STUFF WE MENTION IN THIS EPISODE:
Temple Grandin: https://www.templegrandin.com/
Odeon Cinema autism friendly screenings: https://www.odeon.co.uk/accessibility/autism-friendly/
Theatre Royal, Brighton: http://theatreroyalbrighton.com/
Jo's group for mASCot: https://www.asc-mascot.com/teen-and-inbetweeners-club
To make a donation to mASCot, so they can continue their amazing work: www.givey.com/mascot
 
CONTACT US
If you have any feedback about the show, ideas for topics or suggestions for neurodiversity champions you'd like us to give a shout out to, you can email: hello@neuroshambles.com
 
FOLLOW US
Instagram: www.instagram.com/neuroshambles/
Facebook: www.facebook.com/Neuroshambles
Reddit: www.reddit.com/r/Neuroshambles/
Threads: www.threads.net/@neuroshambles
 
CREDITS
The Neuroshambles theme tune was created by Skilsel on Pixabay: https://pixabay.com/music/beats-energetic-hip-hop-8303/

So much f*cking admin | Jess Meredith

SEND parenting isn’t just emotional - it’s bureaucratic. Endless forms, EHCPs, waiting lists, and chasing services become a full-time job. In this cathartic episode, Mark is joined by Jess Meredith to vent about the admin avalanche that comes with parenting neurodivergent children.
They talk about burnout, system failures, and the sheer absurdity of how hard it is to access the help your child needs. Jess brings warmth, wit and insight to a topic that’s rarely discussed but widely felt.
If you’ve ever cried over a DLA form or screamed into a void about CAMHS, this one’s for you. It’s a PDA and autism parenting podcast episode that says what you’re thinking - with humour and solidarity.
And yes, there is swearing. You’ve been warned.
Links to stuff we mention in this episodeDiffering Minds - https://www.differingminds.co.uk/"The Explosive Child" by Dr Ross Greene - https://drrossgreene.com/the-explosive-child.htmSEND Family Instincts - https://www.sendfamilyinstincts.com/Hibi app - https://hibi.health/Contact usIf you have any feedback about the show, ideas for topics or suggestions for neurodiversity champions you'd like us to give a shout out to, you can email: hello@neuroshambles.comFollow usInstagram: www.instagram.com/neuroshambles/Facebook: www.facebook.com/neuroshamblesReddit: www.reddit.com/r/neuroshambles/Threads: www.threads.net/@neuroshamblesCreditsThe Neuroshambles theme tune was created by Skilsel on Pixabay: https://pixabay.com/music/beats-energetic-hip-hop-8303/

Honesty | Heidi Mavir

How can we help our neurodivergent kids strike a balance between honesty and oversharing? In this conversation, Mark is joined by author and advocate Heidi Mavir to talk about why the truth is so important to our autistic children and why they sometimes find it difficult to understand the difference between honesty and brutal honesty.
They dive into the emotional labour of neurodivergent parenting, the fine line between honesty and fear, and why some conversations feel impossibly hard. Heidi shares her approach to talking openly with her son and the power of truth in building connection.
This episode will resonate with parents navigating difficult topics - from school struggles and diagnoses to grief and overwhelm - and wondering how much to share. It’s real, funny and deeply affirming.
For anyone seeking a neurodivergent parenting podcast that handles the messy bits with care and courage, this is for you.
Links to stuff we mention in this episode"Your Child is Not Broken", by Heidi Mavir: https://www.heidimavir.com/i-wrote-a-bookEOTAS Matters resources: https://eotasmatters.kartra.com/portals/EVERYTHINGHeidi Mavir's website: https://www.heidimavir.com/MindJam: https://mindjam.org.uk/Sock Shop bamboo socks: https://www.sockshop.co.uk/featured/bambooThe Barbican, London: https://www.barbican.org.uk/"My Neighbour Totoro" stage show: https://totoroshow.com/Contact usIf you have any feedback about the show, ideas for topics or suggestions for neurodiversity champions you'd like us to give a shout out to, you can email: hello@neuroshambles.comFollow usInstagram: www.instagram.com/neuroshambles/Facebook: www.facebook.com/neuroshamblesReddit: www.reddit.com/r/neuroshambles/Threads: www.threads.net/@neuroshamblesCreditsThe Neuroshambles theme tune was created by Skilsel on Pixabay: https://pixabay.com/music/beats-energetic-hip-hop-8303/

Christmas | Belle

For many neurodivergent families, Christmas isn’t the most wonderful time of the year - it’s the most overwhelming. In this episode, Mark and Belle unpack the chaos, anxiety and sensory overload that come with Christmas traditions and expectations.
From unpredictable routines to social obligations and flashing lights, they reflect on what makes the festive season so tough for autistic, ADHD and PDA kids - and what parents can do to survive it.
Belle shares practical ideas and honest moments from her own family’s experience, while Mark reveals the emotional toll of trying to make Christmas magical when it feels like everything is working against you.
Whether you’re looking for an autism parenting podcast that acknowledges the reality of holidays or a PDA parenting podcast that speaks to your December dread, this one’s for you.
Links to stuff we mention in this episodePolar Express: https://ukfamilytravel.com/polar-express-train-ride-locations-in-the-uk/Preston Manor Father Christmas: https://brightonmuseums.org.uk/event/father-christmas/Amazing Maids: https://www.amazingmaidssussex.com/Wakehurst "Glow Wild" event: https://www.kew.org/wakehurst/whats-on/glow-wild-2023Cheese knife: https://www.robertwelch.com/products/radford-bright-cheese-knifeContact usIf you have any feedback about the show, ideas for topics or suggestions for neurodiversity champions you'd like us to give a shout out to, you can email: hello@neuroshambles.comFollow usInstagram: www.instagram.com/neuroshambles/Facebook: www.facebook.com/neuroshamblesReddit: www.reddit.com/r/neuroshambles/Threads: www.threads.net/@neuroshamblesCreditsThe Neuroshambles theme tune was created by Skilsel on Pixabay: https://pixabay.com/music/beats-energetic-hip-hop-8303/

Friendships | Kate

What does friendship look like for neurodivergent kids - and how can parents help? In this episode, Mark is joined by Kate to discuss the complex world of childhood friendships when your child is autistic, has ADHD, PDA, or other neurodivergent needs
They explore the social rules that don’t come naturally, the heartbreak of being left out, and the relief that comes with finding your people. It’s a deeply personal episode filled with reflections, laughter and a few emotional gut-punches along the way.
Kate shares her experience as a parent navigating her child’s social life, while Mark reflects on his own expectations and the reality of neurodivergent connection
This is a must-listen for any parent looking for an autism parenting podcast that understands the messy, human side of helping kids form friendships - and values emotional honesty above all else.
Links to stuff we mention in this episodeAppeer: https://www.appeer.org.uk/Overworld: https://overworld-amp.uk/Contact usIf you have any feedback about the show, ideas for topics or suggestions for neurodiversity champions you'd like us to give a shout out to, you can email: hello@neuroshambles.comFollow usInstagram: www.instagram.com/neuroshambles/Facebook: www.facebook.com/neuroshamblesReddit: www.reddit.com/r/neuroshambles/Threads: www.threads.net/@neuroshamblesCreditsThe Neuroshambles theme tune was created by Skilsel on Pixabay: https://pixabay.com/music/beats-energetic-hip-hop-8303/

Special Interests | Liam Mullone

Ever found yourself deep-diving into a topic your child loves so much they could write a PhD on it? In this episode, Liam Mullone joins Mark to explore the beauty, brilliance and occasional bafflement of special interests in neurodivergent children.
They unpick everything from trains and gaming to unexpected hyperfixations, and how these passions can be both a source of joy and tension at home. Liam shares funny and moving stories about his son, while Mark reflects on how special interests can build connection - or cause conflict.
This episode is ideal for parents trying to understand what drives their neurodivergent children, and how to support (or survive) their latest obsession. It’s a brilliant listen for anyone after an ADHD parenting podcast with honesty and humour.
If you’re parenting autistic, PDA or ADHD children, you’ll find validation and laughs in equal measure here.
Links to stuff we mention in this episodeCrealy Family Theme Park: https://www.crealy.co.uk/Murder Drones: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLHovnlOusNLiJz3sm0d5i2Evwa2LDLdrgSimply Great Media: https://simplygreatmedia.co.uk/Devon JDM (Liam’s Japanese Imported Car company): https://www.devonjdm.com/Contact usIf you have any feedback about the show, ideas for topics or suggestions for neurodiversity champions you'd like us to give a shout out to, you can email: hello@neuroshambles.comFollow usInstagram: www.instagram.com/neuroshambles/Facebook: www.facebook.com/neuroshamblesReddit: www.reddit.com/r/neuroshambles/Threads: www.threads.net/@neuroshamblesCreditsThe Neuroshambles theme tune was created by Skilsel on Pixabay: https://pixabay.com/music/beats-energetic-hip-hop-8303/

Holidays | Dr Hildi Mitchell

Planning a holiday as a neurodivergent parenting family can feel like preparing for battle. In this autism and ADHD parenting podcast episode, Dr Hildi Mitchell joins Mark to talk about why travel - however exciting - can cause massive stress for children with sensory differences, anxiety, or demand avoidance.
They discuss airport meltdowns, hotel disasters, and the myth of the “relaxing family getaway”.
Hildi shares how she prepares her children for change and manages the emotional aftermath when things don’t go to plan. Mark talks about his own holiday nightmares - and the surprising moments of joy that come when you least expect them.
A must-listen if you’ve ever returned from holiday feeling like you need another one.
Links to stuff we mention in this episodeGatwick special assistance: https://www.gatwickairport.com/at-the-airport/flying-out/special-assistance/EasyJet Special Assistance: https://www.easyjet.com/en/help/boarding-and-flying/special-assistanceClub la Santa, Lanzarote: https://www.clublasanta.co.uk/Lego: https://www.lego.com/en-gbContact usIf you have any feedback about the show, ideas for topics or suggestions for neurodiversity champions you'd like us to give a shout out to, you can email: hello@neuroshambles.comFollow usInstagram: www.instagram.com/neuroshambles/Facebook: www.facebook.com/neuroshamblesReddit: www.reddit.com/r/neuroshambles/Threads: www.threads.net/@neuroshamblesCreditsThe Neuroshambles theme tune was created by Skilsel on Pixabay: https://pixabay.com/music/beats-energetic-hip-hop-8303/

Birthday Parties | Belle

Why are birthday parties such a minefield for neurodivergent kids? In this episode, Mark is joined by Belle to explore how autism, ADHD, and PDA can make birthdays overwhelming, unpredictable, and downright stressful. From sensory overload to unexpected social rules, this is a brutally honest look at celebrations that often feel anything but celebratory.
Belle, a parent of neurodivergent children, shares her experience navigating birthday meltdowns, party exclusions and the emotional toll of trying to make things special - and safe - for her kids. Mark opens up about his own family’s struggles with party expectations and the pressure to conform.
This episode offers comfort and solidarity for anyone who’s ever questioned whether to skip the party altogether. It’s a great listen if you’re looking for a PDA parenting podcast that doesn’t shy away from difficult topics, or an autism parenting podcast that reflects real-life family dynamics.
Perfect for parents looking to understand the deeper reasons behind their child’s resistance to parties - and to feel less alone in the process.
Links to stuff we mention in this episodeGatwick special assistance: https://www.gatwickairport.com/at-the-airport/flying-out/special-assistance/Freaky sorting hat: Harry Potter Talking Sorting HatDeluxe crocs: Fleece-lined, fancy crocs!Contact usIf you have any feedback about the show, ideas for topics or suggestions for neurodiversity champions you'd like us to give a shout out to, you can email: hello@neuroshambles.comFollow usInstagram: www.instagram.com/neuroshambles/Facebook: www.facebook.com/neuroshamblesReddit: www.reddit.com/r/neuroshambles/Threads: www.threads.net/@neuroshamblesCreditsThe Neuroshambles theme tune was created by Skilsel on Pixabay: https://pixabay.com/music/beats-energetic-hip-hop-8303/

Camping | Jo Matthews

If you’re raising an autistic, ADHD, or PDA child and you’ve ever tried to go camping as a “fun family activity”… this one’s for you.
Neuroshambles kicks off with an honest, hilarious and painfully relatable chat between host Mark Allen and guest Jo Matthews, as they swap stories about camping catastrophes, sensory meltdowns, and the moments that make you wonder what on earth you were thinking.
Jo is parenting two autistic children with additional diagnoses, and together they reflect on the joys and chaos of trying to enjoy the outdoors while parenting neurodivergent kids. It’s a brilliant entry point for anyone looking for a neurodivergent parenting podcast with warmth, humour and no filter.
This first episode sets the tone for the Neuroshambles podcast: no neat solutions, no preachy advice - just honest conversations about the challenges and absurdities of SEND parenting, from two people living it.If you’re looking for an autism parenting podcast that feels like a conversation with friends, or a PDA parenting podcast that doesn’t sugar-coat things, start here.
 
LINKS TO STUFF WE MENTION IN THIS EPISODE:
Science museum autism-friendly events: https://www.sciencemuseum.org.uk/see-and-do/early-birds
Aspies for freedom: http://www.aspiesforfreedom.com/
mASCot website: https://www.asc-mascot.com/
mASCot Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/221337174595596/
To make a donation to mASCot, so they can continue their amazing work: www.givey.com/mascot
 
CONTACT US
If you have any feedback about the show, ideas for topics or suggestions for neurodiversity champions you'd like us to give a shout out to, you can email: hello@neuroshambles.com
 
FOLLOW US
Instagram: www.instagram.com/neuroshambles/
Facebook: www.facebook.com/Neuroshambles
Reddit: www.reddit.com/r/Neuroshambles/
Threads: www.threads.net/@neuroshambles
 
CREDITS
The Neuroshambles theme tune was created by Skilsel on Pixabay: https://pixabay.com/music/beats-energetic-hip-hop-8303/4d040e205510acfc12e6be469a489fe8f8c43034

Trailer

A trailer previewing Neuroshambles - a fortnightly podcast about the ludicrous realities of parenting neurodivergent kids. If you want to hear a bunch of frazzled parents gleefully swapping tales from the trenches of parenting neurodiverse children and having a laugh at some of the nonsense we have to navigate, this is the podcast for you.Lapsed comedian Mark Allen has three kids - two diagnosed autistic with ADHD and one suspected neurotypical. Each episode, he speaks to other parents of neurodivergent children to find out how they deal with seemingly simple events, such as birthday parties, holidays, food, sleep, and leaving the house.If you’re a parent of a child with ASC, ADHD, PDA, ODD or any of those other acronyms that mean your child’s brain is wired differently, this podcast is for you. We also wholeheartedly encourage parents of neurotypical kids to listen in and hear what life is like in our secret world of chaos. It may open your eyes to some of the myriad challenges we face and, at the very least, it will give you an insight into what not to say when you see one of our kids having a meltdown in the supermarket!