Interview with Ellen Cole (on the topics of neurodivergent pregnancy, autistic parenting strategies, AuDHD & Irlen Syndrome, and much more)

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

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