Navigating Friendships and Dating On The Spectrum

In this episode, Cliff dives into one of the most emotional topics for teens on the spectrum - friendships, dating and how to connect with others in a world that can feel confusing, overwhelming or even isolating. He is joined by Jeff Carroll, author, Comic Book Creator and dating coach, who brings humour, empathy and some seriously powerful advice for building confidence and communication skills. Eva is also back on the mic, sharing her own challenges and experiences navigating social life as a young autistic girl. Whether your child is already asking questions about relationships or they're still trying to figure out how to make that first friend. This conversation is full of ideas, laughs and real-life tools to help them take the next step. EPISODE REVEALS Bear in mind that all teens experience peer pressure and anxiety about fitting in, making friends and dating. You are not alone in your struggle. Dating, like any other life skill, takes practice. Face to face clubs are great places to hone the skills you need for dating. After school, church led, art, creative and gaming clubs are particularly good places to go. Be brave, volunteer or get a job that means you have to talk to people. Know what you want from someone you are going to date, make a contract with yourself, so you don´t end up dating people who are wrong for you. Understand the potential dangers and pitfalls of dating so you can spot red flags early and safely exit the relationship. Set boundaries and stick to them. BEST MOMENTS "Anything you can do to get you to talk to people is a step forward." "You might not like anybody in the club, but you're not there to like them. You're there to get your skills up on how to talk to people." "You don’t want peer pressure to guide you either. You want to naturally find somebody." ABOUT THE GUESTS JEFF CARROLL For one-on-one dating advice and coaching, contact Jeff via - coachyojeff@gmail.com https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_22asKR-3-Y https://www.facebook.com/CoachYoJeff The Hip Hop Dating Guide — available on https://a.co/d/gwDdKTH Fangernails (comic series) — available direct from Jeff The Last Harlemite (comic series) — available via Amazon and comic bookstores EVA KILMISTER Eva´s YT channel Inspire With Us - https://www.youtube.com/@InspireWithUsYT Eva Kilmister - Art Sketch Book - Blank Pages Sketch Pad - https://amzn.eu/d/i8v4VkA RESOURCES Cliff´s book “What To Do When Your Child Shuts Down” - ⁠⁠https://amzn.eu/d/3trk6pw Cliff Kilmister - The Mandela Effect - https://amzn.eu/d/0jWpc2H CONTACT ME Instagram: @cliff_kilmister08 Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/cliff.kilmister/⁠ X - @KilmisterCliff YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@ParentingAutismandADHD HOST BIO Cliff Kilmister is a dedicated parent, advocate, and cat whisperer with firsthand experience raising a child with autism, ADHD, and Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD). Having navigated the challenges of school refusal, meltdowns, and sensory sensitivities, Cliff brings an empathetic, real-world perspective to the podcast. When he's not helping his child thrive, he’s dodging the evil stares of his three cats, who are plotting to take over the world (fortunately, they still haven’t figured out how to use the tin opener). Cliff offers practical advice, expert insights, and personal stories to help families facing similar struggles. Cliff is focused on connecting with professionals and networks to raise awareness about the growing need for the education system to adapt to the increasing neurodiverse population. Join the community on Patreon to share experiences, access exclusive content, and work together for change!