Different Is Normal

About Different Is Normal

Hosted by Emily and Dave, this show explores autism, ADHD, learning differences, mental health, parenting, education, work, identity, and everyday life through honest, grounded conversation. No fixing. No performative positivity. No expert jargon. Just real talk about what it actually means to live — or raise a child — in a neurodivergent world. We’re trained education support staff and parents of neurodivergent children. This isn’t theory — it’s lived experience. That means we talk about the wins, the struggles, the misunderstandings, the systems that don’t work, and the moments no one prepares you for — with empathy, humour, and zero judgement. Each episode blends story, reflection, and practical insight. Sometimes light. Sometimes heavy. Always human. Whether you’re neurodivergent, parenting a neurodivergent child, working in education, or trying to better understand someone you love, this podcast is a space where you can breathe, feel seen, and take something useful with you. Different isn’t broken. Different isn’t wrong. Different is normal.

Publisher

Dave & Emily

Category

education · health & fitness

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

7 Feb 2026

Latest episode

12 Oct 2026

Latest episodes

16 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   12 Oct 2026

   S02E04 | The Quiet Grief of Parenting a Neurodivergent Child

   Is it okay to feel grief as the parent of a neurodivergent child? Dave and Emily turn up in their pyjamas, coffee in hand, to talk honestly about the quiet grief that creeps in when you compare your kids' lives to other families'. This isn't grief for our kids. We adore them exactly as they are. It's the micro disappointments: friendships that happen online instead of at the park, the birthday party that went wrong, the safe food cooked upside down, the drop-off that never happens. Then we flip it and share the big little wins that make it all worth it: a first solo shave, a gig with a 15-year-old who wanted Mum there the whole time, and a list in a notes app that got a family through burnout. We finish on the question every parent of a neurodivergent teen carries: will they be okay when we're gone? What's one big little win your family had this week? And if you're a neurodivergent adult, or you love one, what does life look like for you after school? Tell us in the comments. CHAPTERS: 00:00 Why we're in our pyjamas 01:20 Comparing our kids to other families 03:08 "I never had any expectations" 08:22 Grieving the experience, not the child 09:37 Friendships look different now 13:43 Wanting to go, and what it costs 16:18 The Optimus Prime birthday party 18:40 Waiting for the phone call from school 20:44 Footy, Starfish Nippers and finding a fit 26:32 The micro disappointments 30:40 The Father's Day food quest 35:32 The upside-down pizza 38:44 Why would they understand? 39:50 Flipping the script: big little wins 40:34 The camping dinner win 48:53 "Mum, I want you with me" 51:52 Movies with my son 52:47 The shower win 53:58 First solo shave 56:17 Keeping a wins list 57:47 Will he be okay when we're gone? 1:04:04 Dignity, not discipline 1:06:27 Celebrate the person, not the outcome ▶️ Subscribe to Different Is Normal: https://www.youtube.com/@differentisnormal (https://www.youtube.com/@differentisnormal) 🌐 https://differentisnormal.live (https://differentisnormal.live) Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/differentisnormal TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@differentisnormal Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/differentisnormal.podcast Threads: https://www.threads.com/@differentisnormal LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davemharrison/ #DifferentIsNormal #AutismParenting #Neurodivergent #ParentingNeurodivergentKids

2. 

   17 Sept 2026

   What Does an Education Support Worker Actually Do? S02E3

   What does an Education Support Worker actually do? Dave works in a secondary school. Emily works across a primary school. In this episode of Different Is Normal, we take you inside the real day-to-day work of Education Support — and it’s a lot more than simply “helping kids in class”. We talk about academic, social, emotional and medical support, building relationships, school avoidance, modifying learning, reporting, camps, IEPs, understanding individual interests and triggers, and working alongside teachers. Dave shares the story of a student who returned to say goodbye after leaving his school — including a plush penguin and a moment that showed just how much their relationship had meant. We also explore school avoidance and why progress that might seem tiny from the outside can be enormous for a student. Sometimes success isn't completing a worksheet. Sometimes it's getting out of the car. Sometimes it's walking through the school gate. Sometimes it's looking through the classroom window. And sometimes, eventually, it's walking through that classroom door. Emily shares how knowing a student's interests helped her connect with a child returning after three weeks away from school, turning a difficult transition into engagement and participation. Great Education Support isn't about doing everything for a student. It's about understanding the individual, building trust, removing barriers and supporting greater independence. If you're an Education Support Worker, what's one moment that reminded you why you do this job? If you're a teacher, parent or student, what difference has a great Education Support Worker made to you? Tell us in the comments. CHAPTERS: 00:00 What does an Education Support Worker do? 00:10 A day in secondary school ES 01:29 Emily's day in primary school 02:27 Funding and student needs 03:13 The student Dave will never forget 04:01 Why Dave bought him a penguin 05:03 The goodbye that meant everything 06:16 “We lasted because of you” 06:49 The emotional side of ES 08:00 Supporting school avoidance 09:05 Getting through the school gate 10:05 Building trust through interests 11:07 From watching to entering the classroom 13:00 Celebrating the small wins 21:45 Camps and responsibilities 21:49 Reporting and observations 22:49 Modifying curriculum 23:28 Supporting complex medical needs 24:19 Documenting behaviour and progress 26:01 Why student history matters 26:39 Using interests to build engagement 28:11 Celebrating the wins 28:14 Learning from other ES staff 28:43 Why handovers matter 29:26 IEPs, interests and triggers 30:17 Why ES are integral to classrooms 31:34 Tell us about your ES experience 31:57 Something new is coming ▶️ Watch the full episode: https://youtu.be/WqwZXnmIWsA (https://youtu.be/WqwZXnmIWsA) ▶️ Subscribe to Different Is Normal: https://www.youtube.com/@differentisnormal (https://www.youtube.com/@differentisnormal) 🌐 https://differentisnormal.live (https://differentisnormal.live) If conversations about neurodivergence, disability, education and the people supporting our kids matter to you, please consider subscribing. #EducationSupport #TeacherAide #InclusiveEducation #Neurodivergence #DifferentIsNormal

3. 

   26 Aug 2026

   Why Are Disabled Women So Much More Likely to Experience Violence?

   48% of women with disabilities have experienced physical violence. Women with Disabilities Victoria reports this compared with 28% of women without disabilities. It also reports that 33% of women with disabilities have experienced sexual violence. Those numbers are confronting. But this episode of Different Is Normal asks a different question: What do men need to change? Dave and Emily discuss violence against women, particularly neurodivergent and disabled women, and how dependence, communication differences, masking, compliance and unequal power can make abuse harder to recognise, report or escape. We explore abuse that isn’t always recognised: controlling money, withholding medication or transport, exploiting dependence, coercive control, speaking for someone and using a woman’s diagnosis to undermine her credibility. Then we turn the question onto men. What do we laugh at? What do we let slide? What do we do when another man crosses the line? What are boys learning from us? Why are women still being taught how to stay safe instead of men being taught not to make them unsafe? This isn’t a women’s problem to solve. Men need to be part of the change. What is one thing men can do in everyday life that would make women safer? Tell us in the comments. ▶️ Subscribe to Different Is Normal: https://www.youtube.com/@differentisnormal (https://www.youtube.com/@differentisnormal) CHAPTERS: 00:00 The statistic we need to talk about 00:47 “It’s horrifying, but it’s our reality” 01:11 Sexual violence against women with disabilities 03:32 Why disabled women face greater risk 04:27 Why abuse can be harder to recognise 06:40 What responsibility do men have? 07:36 Abuse isn’t always physical or sexual 10:21 When “care” becomes control 11:51 Do women know they’re being abused? 13:55 Gaslighting, power and hidden abuse 16:23 This isn’t a women’s problem to solve 19:26 Most violence comes from someone women know 20:56 When your abuser is also your support person 22:53 Neurodivergence, compliance and late diagnosis 23:43 Stop asking “Why didn’t she leave?” 25:16 Stop putting responsibility on women 25:40 Men need to change 29:16 Sydney Swans and the media response 31:22 What violence isn’t making the news? 33:46 Why aren’t we seeing what’s happening? 36:42 Gender inequality starts young 38:18 What are children learning at home? 39:13 Men need to call sexism out 42:45 Silence contributes to the culture 44:05 Disability used to discredit women 45:08 Why reporting can feel impossible 46:47 Emily’s experience of workplace sexism 50:01 Do women need men to “protect” them? 51:31 Why women choose the bear 53:28 Men need to stop other men 53:39 What men can change tomorrow 55:34 Emily’s challenge to men 59:11 The question every man should ask 59:55 This is a men’s problem to solve 1:00:07 Start with yourself If conversations like this matter to you, please consider subscribing. We’re building a community where we talk openly about neurodivergence, disability and the parts of life that don’t always get discussed. CONTENT NOTE: This episode discusses sexual violence, physical violence, coercive control and abuse. If you or someone you know is experiencing violence or abuse in Australia, contact 1800RESPECT: 1800 737 732 https://www.1800respect.org.au/ (https://www.1800respect.org.au/) If someone is in immediate danger, call 000. #ViolenceAgainstWomen #Disability #Neurodivergence #DifferentIsNormal #GenderBasedViolence #DisabilityRights #MensResponsibility #CoerciveControl

4. 

   19 Aug 2026

   NDIS Cut Their Funding by 56%… But Their Disability Never Changed

   What happens when a person’s disability hasn’t changed… but their NDIS funding is cut by more than half? In the first episode of Season 2 of Different Is Normal, Dave and Emily share a deeply personal story after Emily’s sister-in-law received an NDIS plan with a 56% reduction in funding. This isn’t a discussion about politics. It’s a conversation about people. We explore what these funding cuts actually mean for families, carers and people living with disability. From losing access to occupational therapy and support workers, to the emotional toll placed on unpaid family carers, this episode shines a light on the ripple effects that rarely make the headlines. We also discuss: • What “core funding” actually means • Why people with lifelong disabilities are repeatedly asked to prove their disability • The hidden cost carried by unpaid carers • Why early intervention and therapy are investments, not expenses • What happens when families become the safety net • Why disability support is about dignity, purpose and belonging Whether you’re living with disability, caring for someone who is, working in education, or simply wanting to better understand the challenges many Australian families face, we hope this conversation helps put a human face to the headlines. We’d love to hear from you. Have the recent NDIS changes affected you or someone you care about? What has your experience been? Share your story respectfully in the comments below. Your voice may help someone else realise they’re not alone. 👍 If this conversation resonated with you, please Like, Subscribe and share this episode with someone who needs to hear it. ━━━━━━━━━━━━━━ 🎙 Watch more episodes from Different Is Normal https://www.youtube.com/@differentisnormal (https://www.youtube.com/@differentisnormal) About Different Is Normal Hosted by Dave, an Education Support Worker and parent, alongside Emily, who brings lived neurodivergent experience, Different Is Normal explores what behaviour, disability and neurodivergence really look like beneath the surface. Real conversations. Real experiences. Real understanding. 00:00 Introduction 00:49 A 56% NDIS funding cut 01:39 What core funding actually means 02:58 Why prove a lifelong disability? 06:21 The emotional impact of repeated assessments 08:45 What these funding cuts really mean 10:33 Losing support, work and independence 11:41 What happens when family becomes the support system? 15:37 Why occupational therapy matters 17:19 The hidden cost of disability 20:37 Being expected to do more 22:08 Appealing the NDIS decision 23:58 A message for Australia #DifferentIsNormal #NDIS #Disability #Neurodiversity #Autism #DisabilitySupport #Carers #SupportWorkers #OccupationalTherapy #InvisibleDisability #Australia #NDISFunding #FamilyCarers #InclusiveCommunities #Podcast

5. 

   6 May 2026

   I Thought I Was Fine… Until I Wasn’t | Ep 12 - part 2

   This is the part people don’t always see. Growing up… coping… doing “fine”. Until one day, you realise you weren’t. In this episode of Different Is Normal, Emily shares what it was like growing up without a diagnosis — and what happens when the expectations increase but the support disappears. We talk about: • growing up alongside a sibling with significant needs • being the “capable one” — and what that actually means • why school can feel manageable… until it isn’t • what happens when support fades in high school and adulthood • the pressure to succeed when you’re expected to cope • becoming a parent and seeing things differently • why so many people aren’t diagnosed until later This episode is about something many people recognise: You weren’t “fine”. You just learned how to survive. This isn’t theory. It’s real life. Real reflection. And the moment things start to make sense. ⏱️ CHAPTERS 00:00 Finding a Common Language 00:41 Growing Up Without a Diagnosis 03:00 Living Alongside Complex Needs 06:04 When Support Falls Away 09:32 Becoming a Parent 13:27 Understanding the Brain Differently 16:19 Why This Podcast Exists 18:34 The Power of Community 20:54 Leaving the World Better 🔗 MORE FROM US Watch more episodes here: https://www.youtube.com/@differentisnormal (https://www.youtube.com/@differentisnormal) 💬 JOIN THE CONVERSATION Did you ever feel like you were coping… but something still didn’t fit? #neurodiversity #adhd #autism #parenting #differentisnormal

6. 

   29 Apr 2026

   This Changed Everything for Our Family (And We Didn’t Expect It) | Ep 11 - part 1

   This episode is different. We’re not breaking down behaviour. We’re not talking about strategies. We’re answering a question we’ve been asked a lot: Why does this matter so much to us? In this episode of Different Is Normal, we share the story behind the podcast. From a life-changing accident… to an autism diagnosis… to completely rethinking what matters. This is where everything started. We talk about: • what happened to Dave before his son was born • the moment everything changed • the guilt, confusion, and questions that followed • what an autism diagnosis actually means for a family • how perspective shifts everything • why understanding matters more than labels This isn’t about theory. It’s about real life. Real experiences. And the moments that change how you see everything. ⏱️ CHAPTERS 00:00 The Birth of a Podcast: Our Journey Begins 00:56 Personal Stories: The Impact of Neurodiversity 05:35 Navigating Autism: A Parent’s Perspective 08:13 Life Changes: From Accident to Awakening 17:45 Giving Back: Becoming an Aid in Education 18:06 Perspective Shift: Understanding Neurodiversity 26:52 Living with an Acquired Brain Injury 30:12 Defining Moments: Friends, Family, and Support 🔗 MORE FROM US Watch more episodes here: https://www.youtube.com/@differentisnormal (https://www.youtube.com/@differentisnormal) 💬 JOIN THE CONVERSATION What changed how you see neurodiversity? #️⃣ #neurodiversity #autism #parenting #adhd #differentisnormal

7. 

   22 Apr 2026

   Travelling with Neurodivergent Kids Is Hard — Here’s What Actually Helps | Ep 10

   Travelling with neurodivergent kids can feel overwhelming. Airports. Queues. Noise. Delays. And the pressure of trying to keep everything calm while everything keeps moving. It is hard. But there are things that actually help. In this episode of Different Is Normal, we break down what is really happening during travel and what makes the biggest difference in real situations. No theory. No vague advice. Just practical strategies that work in planes, airports, and everyday travel. We cover: • the sunflower lanyard and how it can reduce stress in public spaces • why preparation matters more than you think • how to reduce overwhelm before it starts • what to bring so things do not fall apart mid trip • how to advocate without feeling like you are causing problems • why flexibility matters more than the perfect plan This is not about perfect travel. It is about making travel possible. ⏱️ CHAPTERS 00:00 Travelling with Neurodivergent Kids 00:32 The Sunflower Lanyard Explained 02:59 Why Preparation Changes Everything 06:06 Making Flights Easier 08:47 Managing Sensory Load 11:28 Why Flexible Plans Work Better 14:46 Advocating for Your Child 17:35 What to Pack 20:13 Safety and Backup Plans 23:16 Final Tips That Actually Help 🔗 LINKS Watch more episodes here: https://www.youtube.com/@differentisnormal (https://www.youtube.com/@differentisnormal) What is the hardest part of travelling for you or your child? #neurodiversity #autism #adhd #parenting #traveltips

8. 

   25 Mar 2026

   Why Are They Laughing? | The Hidden Rules No One Teaches | Ep 9

   You walk into a room. People are laughing. And you don’t know why. No one explains the rules. But everyone notices when you miss them. In this episode, we break down what “reading the room” actually means, why it’s so hard for neurodivergent people, and what we can do instead. We talk about: • Hidden social rules no one teaches • Why humour and timing are hard to read • What it actually feels like in those moments • How small misunderstandings build up • Why we need to make expectations clearer This is not about changing people. It’s about changing how we communicate. ⸻ Chapters 00:00 Understanding Unwritten Social Rules 02:47 Navigating Humor and Social Interactions 05:57 The Complexity of Reading the Room 08:49 The Challenge of Communication 11:35 The Role of Explicit Communication 14:44 Finding Balance in Conversations 17:51 The Importance of Kindness in Communication 20:30 Bridging the Gap Between Neurodiverse and Neurotypical 23:36 Preparing for Independence and Safety 28:39 Navigating School Challenges for Neurodiverse Children 31:07 The Complexity of Reading Social Cues 34:19 The Impact of Diagnosis on Social Interactions 38:34 Understanding Social Situations and Communication 42:29 Teaching Children About Social Dynamics 46:47 Inclusion and Acceptance in Social Settings 53:30 Making Social Cues Visible for Everyone ⸻ Watch more episodes here: https://www.youtube.com/@DiffIsNormal (https://www.youtube.com/@DiffIsNormal)

9. 

   18 Mar 2026

   Why the World Isn’t Built for Neurodiversity | Ep 8

   In this episode of Different Is Normal, Dave and Emily explore a question that sits at the centre of many neurodivergent experiences. Why do we spend so much time teaching neurodivergent people how to navigate the world, but spend so little time teaching the world how to understand them? From classrooms to supermarkets, public spaces to government policy, many everyday environments are built around neurotypical experiences. Sound, lighting, routines, communication styles, and expectations can make ordinary places overwhelming for neurodivergent people. Dave and Emily talk about the gap between these two worlds and why understanding neurodiversity should not only sit with neurodivergent people and their families. They discuss education systems, the training of education support staff, sensory environments in public spaces, and how small changes in design and awareness can benefit everyone. They also reflect on their own experiences as parents and education support workers, and why creating environments that consider neurodiversity often improves life for all people, not just those with a diagnosis. If we want truly inclusive communities, we may need to stop expecting neurodivergent people to constantly adapt and start learning how to meet them where they are. Chapters 00:00 Understanding Neurodiversity in Society 05:54 Education and Training Gaps 11:31 Creating Inclusive Environments 14:30 Bridging the Gap Between Worlds Watch the full Different Is Normal series https://www.youtube.com/@differentisnormal (https://www.youtube.com/@differentisnormal) Episode 1 – Navigating Diagnosis Day https://youtu.be/BN3uU0H44Zs (https://youtu.be/BN3uU0H44Zs) Episode 2 – Normal Isn’t Real https://youtu.be/NUAMr90xumY (https://youtu.be/NUAMr90xumY) Episode 3 – When Everyday Things Are Too Much https://youtu.be/hKjAP-lZJ_4 (https://youtu.be/hKjAP-lZJ_4) Episode 4 – Why Stimming Helps Learning https://youtu.be/MIyn0QlpZ_E (https://youtu.be/MIyn0QlpZ_E) Episode 5 – Every Behaviour Is a Message https://youtu.be/Ip2Gz62thKA (https://youtu.be/Ip2Gz62thKA) #Neurodiversity #Autism #Neurodivergent #InclusiveEducation #DifferentIsNormal

10. 

    11 Mar 2026

    How to Choose the Right School for a Neurodivergent Child | What Parents Should Look For | Ep 7

    Choosing the right school for your child is one of the biggest decisions parents make. But many families choose schools for familiar reasons: • that’s where friends from kinder are going • the school has the best reputation • it’s the closest school The reality is that different schools are better for different children. The best school isn’t necessarily the most popular one or the one with the longest waiting list. The best school is the one where your child can participate, feel safe and grow. In this episode of Different Is Normal, Dave and Emily walk through how parents can make informed school decisions when raising neurodivergent children. They discuss: • the different types of schools in Australia • how school zones and out-of-zone enrolment work • what IQ testing actually means (and when it matters) • what “reasonable adjustments” look like in classrooms • Tier 1, Tier 2 and Tier 3 funding explained • what Student Support Groups (SSGs), IEPs and ILPs are • how schools support regulation and participation • what questions parents should ask during school tours • red flags to watch for when visiting schools • why school fit matters more than reputation This episode is designed to help parents understand the system, advocate for their children, and find the environment where their child can thrive. Because choosing a school isn’t about ranking schools. It’s about finding the place where your child can breathe. Subscribe for more conversations about neurodiversity, education and parenting: https://www.youtube.com/@differentisnormal (https://www.youtube.com/@differentisnormal) Watch this episode: https://youtu.be/bMpOEk_cp8U (https://youtu.be/bMpOEk_cp8U) Chapters 00:00 Why choosing the right school matters 01:28 Touring multiple schools before deciding 02:20 The moment that helped us choose a primary school 04:49 Choosing schools based on philosophy 06:39 Types of schools in Australia explained 08:21 Why school fit matters more than reputation 11:18 Looking beyond NAPLAN and academic rankings 16:27 What IQ testing actually means for schools 17:31 Schools’ legal obligation to support students 18:08 Examples of reasonable adjustments 19:44 Tier 1, Tier 2 and Tier 3 funding explained 25:18 Red flags to watch for during school tours 30:34 Why changing schools is okay 31:20 Student Support Groups (SSGs) explained 33:28 IEPs, ILPs and setting meaningful goals 38:22 Planning school transitions early 45:18 Reducing cognitive load for students 51:53 Fair vs equitable support in schools 56:52 Why documenting everything matters 58:22 Questions parents should ask schools 1:04:07 Out-of-zone enrolment and appeals 1:07:07 Final advice for parents #Neurodiversity #Autism #ADHD #InclusiveEducation #DifferentIsNormal

11. 

    4 Mar 2026

    The Hidden Cost of Masking: Why “Good” Kids Fall Apart at Home | Ep 6

    Why does a child look “fine” at school… then fall apart the second they get home? In this episode of Different Is Normal, Dave and Emily unpack masking (trying to behave like someone you’re not) and the very real cost it can have on a child’s brain and nervous system. Masking often looks like compliance: the quiet kid, the “good” kid, the student who’s sitting still and appearing to listen. But underneath, they may be spending all their energy on: “Am I sitting right? Am I listening right? Am I acting normal?” And when they finally reach their safe place (home) the cup overflows: shutdowns, meltdowns, stimming, exhaustion, or total withdrawal. We talk classroom signs educators often miss, why “coping” and “masking” get confused, how accommodations can make learning possible, and what parents can do when their child needs space after school. Chapters 00:00 Masking and the after-school crash 00:52 Masking can look like compliance 01:20 “Looking like you’re listening” vs actually learning 02:18 What ES staff can do (reduce input, support output) 03:42 When teachers mistake stillness for engagement 04:12 Laptop/music accommodation story (what good support can look like) 07:07 Fairness vs equity in classrooms 08:06 Home as the safe place to unmask 09:28 Adults need decompression too 10:40 Family story: touch, boundaries, and space 12:28 Impact vs intention (hug expectations) 13:38 Cognitive energy: constant self-monitoring 15:26 Masking and health costs (exhaustion, pain, appetite) 17:44 Advocating: “No more questions” 19:15 Social energy, microsignals, and tone 20:34 Why “How are you?” can be a huge question 23:03 Pattern recognition and misunderstanding social cues 23:53 Sarcasm and literal interpretation 26:00 Why society doesn’t learn the other language 27:43 Editing yourself in real time is exhausting 29:01 Prioritising rest over “shoulds” at home 30:53 Connection can be parallel, not always together 31:53 Making home a safe space to be fully yourself 33:36 School vs home: two different versions of the same child 33:52 Camp planning and proactive supports 36:45 Supporting participation (not forced sameness) 40:24 Supporting expert maskers before it’s “too late” 43:52 Building a strong parent-school relationship 46:54 Adjustments that help one child often help everyone 47:53 The real costs: joy, play, creativity, connection 49:41 Unmasked autistic joy (and why it matters) 55:47 Everyone masks sometimes, but the cost isn’t equal 57:59 Shutdown in class: space + safety + time 1:00:48 Hidden burnout signs (special interests disappearing) 1:07:08 Sleep + dysregulation snowball 1:14:36 Executive function collapse (“I can’t”) 1:15:56 “School refusal” vs “school can’t” 1:19:07 A social model approach to education 1:21:02 Where we saw Different Is Normal this week Other episodes Episode 1 – Navigating Diagnosis Day: https://youtu.be/BN3uU0H44Zs (https://youtu.be/BN3uU0H44Zs) Episode 2 – Normal Isn’t Real: https://youtu.be/NUAMr90xumY (https://youtu.be/NUAMr90xumY) Episode 3 – When Everyday Things Are Too Much: https://youtu.be/hKjAP-lZJ_4 (https://youtu.be/hKjAP-lZJ_4) #Autism #Neurodiversity #AutismParenting #AutisticBurnout #Masking #InclusiveEducation #DifferentIsNormal

12. 

    25 Feb 2026

    Every Behaviour Is a Message | Autism, ADHD, Meltdowns and What Kids Are Communicating | Ep 5

    In this episode of Different Is Normal, Dave and Emily unpack a powerful idea: all behaviour is communication. We talk about autism and ADHD behaviours in kids and teens, why meltdowns and “refusal” are often a sign of unmet needs, and how capacity, environment, and curiosity can change the way parents and educators respond. If you’re a parent, teacher, or education support worker supporting neurodivergent young people, this conversation will help you spot patterns, recognise triggers, and respond with empathy instead of punishment. Key moments: 00:23 Welcome and why behaviour gets labelled “bad” 04:52 Behaviour is communication for all humans 08:53 Capacity and why patterns get missed 22:07 Kids do well if they can (CPS, Ross Greene) 23:31 The key question: “What need isn’t being met?” 26:40 The neurodivergent backpack and after-school explosions 33:42 Kids aren’t giving us a hard time, they’re having a hard time 34:54 Fibromyalgia, burnout, and the power of rest Resources mentioned: The Explosive Child (Ross Greene) Collaborative and Proactive Solutions (CPS) NeuroWild: neurodivergent backpack illustration If this helped you feel less alone or more seen, share it with someone who needs it. Over and out.

13. 

    18 Feb 2026

    Why Stimming Helps Learning (And Why We Keep Getting It Wrong) | Ep 4

    Stimming, autism, ADHD, emotional regulation — what if the behaviour we’re trying to stop is actually what helps kids learn? In this episode of Different Is Normal, we unpack what stimming really is, why it matters, and how classrooms often misunderstand it. Stimming is not misbehaviour. It’s not disrespect. It’s not something to eliminate. It’s a nervous system regulating itself. We explore: • What stimming actually means (and why the definition matters) • The difference between neurotypical and neurodivergent stimming • Why “sit still and listen” can work against learning • How movement increases focus and engagement • What happens when stimming is allowed instead of suppressed • The impact of school rules on regulation • Why acceptance changes everything We also share real classroom stories, parenting moments, and practical examples of what happens when teachers choose regulation over compliance. If you’ve ever been told to stop tapping, stop rocking, stop moving — this conversation is for you. Stimming is super normal. We all do it. The difference is how visible it is. 🧠 Key Takeaway When we allow regulation, learning improves. When we normalise difference, kids feel safe. ⏱ Chapters 00:00 What Is Stimming? 02:43 Stimming and Emotional Regulation 05:42 Home vs School Differences 08:03 Does Stimming Help Learning? 13:29 Individual Differences 21:08 Creating Supportive Classrooms 29:05 The Future of Stimming in Education 👇 Join the Conversation What’s a stim you’ve noticed in yourself? Comment below and help us normalise it. 🎙 Podcast: Different Is Normal Real talk about neurodivergent lives. Subscribe for honest conversations about autism, ADHD, sensory processing, education support, parenting, and regulation.

14. 

    10 Feb 2026

    Sensory 101: When Everyday Things Are Too Much | Different Is Normal – Ep 3

    Sensory overload isn’t being “picky”, “defiant”, or “difficult” — it’s a nervous system under pressure. In this episode of Different Is Normal, we unpack what sensory overload actually feels like for neurodivergent kids and adults, and why everyday things like food, clothing, noise, routines, and school environments can become overwhelming. As parents and education support workers, we share real-life experiences of sensory processing differences — from food sensitivities and clothing tags to showers, transitions, and classroom expectations — and how these are often misunderstood as behaviour problems. This is Sensory 101: neuro-affirming, practical, and grounded in lived experience. You’ll hear: What sensory overload actually feels like inside the body Why food preferences and routines are often sensory, not behavioural How sensory needs show up differently at home and at school Why behaviour is communication — not defiance Small, realistic adjustments that make a big difference We also reference the Sensory Processing Wheel by Lindsay Braman, a simple, neuro-affirming visual that explains the full range of sensory systems — including proprioceptive and interoceptive senses — and why regulation looks different for every person. 👉 Learn more about the Sensory Processing Wheel here: https://lindsaybraman.com/sensory-processing-wheel/ (https://lindsaybraman.com/sensory-processing-wheel/) If you’re a parent, education support worker, teacher, or neurodivergent adult, this episode will help you better understand sensory load — and why support starts with curiosity, not control. Different was never the problem. Pressure was. Chapters 00:00 What Sensory Overload Really Is 02:52 Food Sensitivities and Sensory Processing 05:14 Why Daily Routines Can Be Overwhelming 07:56 Clothing, Tags, and Comfort 10:41 Sensory Needs and “Behaviour” 15:54 Masking and Communication 23:14 Sensory Load Across Environments 26:14 Building Rapport and Safety at School 31:34 Parent–School Collaboration 34:09 Small Adjustments, Big Impact 37:39 Choice, Autonomy, and Regulation 49:12 Celebrating Small Wins Keywords sensory overload, sensory processing, neurodiversity, autism, sensory needs, interoception, proprioception, education support, inclusive classrooms, parenting neurodivergent children

15. 

    8 Feb 2026

    Normal isn’t real - it’s just whatever gets rewarded the most. | Ep 2

    In this episode of Different Is Normal, Dave and Emily unpack why “normal” is a social construct — and how it quietly harms neurodivergent kids in schools, families, and friendships. They explore how ideas of normal are shaped by environment, why compliance gets rewarded over wellbeing, and how small accommodations can radically improve learning and engagement for all students — not just neurodivergent ones. This is a real, practical conversation about neurodiversity, education, parenting, and what inclusion actually looks like in classrooms and homes. If you’ve ever wondered why your child thrives at home but crashes after school — or why “fitting in” feels exhausting — this episode is for you. In this episode, we discuss: Why there is no universal definition of “normal” How schools reward sameness (often unintentionally) Why accommodations benefit every learner Parenting neurodivergent children with dignity and understanding Recognition vs rewards in education How friendships are changing in a digital world What inclusive classrooms actually look like in practice Key takeaway Normal isn’t the goal. Understanding, flexibility, and acceptance are. ⏱️ Chapters 00:00 What “Normal” Really Means 02:39 How Environment Shapes Behaviour 05:16 Neurodiversity in Education 08:28 Why Accommodations Matter 10:43 Parenting Neurodivergent Kids 12:55 Rethinking Success in School 15:40 Digital Friendships & Social Change 18:30 Recognising Effort, Not Compliance 20:52 Flexible Learning Environments 23:48 Inclusive Classrooms in Practice 26:31 Recognition vs Rewards 28:56 School Rules That Don’t Work 31:33 Parent–School Communication 34:21 Finding the Right Learning Environment 36:50 Passion-Led Learning 39:23 Adaptability in Teaching 41:54 Behaviour as Communication 44:32 Acceptance as a Process 47:31 Defining a New Normal 49:46 Why Difference Is Normal 📌 About the podcast Different Is Normal is a podcast about neurodivergent lives — not theory, just what actually helps. Hosted by Dave and Emily, parents and education support workers having honest conversations about school, belonging, and wellbeing.

16. 

    7 Feb 2026

    Diagnosis Day: What Changed and What Didn’t | Ep 1

    The conversation delves into the experiences of parents navigating the journey to diagnosis for their neurodivergent children. It explores the emotional impact of diagnosis, the importance of community and support, and the role of advocacy and understanding in the process. Takeaways Diagnosis Day: A Culmination of Experiences The Importance of Community and Support Chapters 00:13 The Journey to Diagnosis Day 03:51 Experiences of Diagnosis Day 08:38 Navigating the Medical System 16:57 Sharing the Diagnosis with Others 19:26 Impact on Social Dynamics 29:06 The Importance of Community Support 34:21 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

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