Hoots Who

Jessica Aviles is Chief Clinical Officer at Positive Support Group, specialising in behaviour science and positive behaviour support. She works to improve quality of life for neurodivergent individuals by helping families and professionals understand behaviour through a compassionate, evidence-based approach. In this episode, Jessica Aviles and Nicola explore how behaviour is shaped by context, co...

Conall is a suicide prevention specialist focusing on autistic individuals. He delivers training to healthcare professionals, parents and carers, and works on improving awareness of risk factors, warning signs and support for autistic people experiencing suicidal thoughts. In this important episode, Conall discusses the alarming link between autism and suicide. He explains why autistic people face...

Jessie Hewitson is an award-winning journalist, ADHDer, parent to two neurodivergent children and author of two books on parenting autistic and ADHD children. Drawing on personal and professional experience, she champions positive, practical strategies to support neurodivergent young people. In this episode, Jessie discusses her journey as a parent and writer in the neurodivergent space. She share...

Charlotte Forsyth is Chief Commercial Officer at the Owl Centre.  She champions accessible pathways to autism and ADHD assessment, helping families and individuals understand their rights and options. In this episode, Charlotte Forsyth explains the NHS “Right to Choose” process and how it applies to autism and ADHD assessments. She breaks down what the pathway involves, who is eligible, and the pr...

Claire Murphy, founder of Beyond Neuro Equity, is an autism and ADHD advocate, trainer, and coach. Diagnosed in 2018, she helps create neuro-inclusive workplaces and supports adults in navigating life with neurodivergent conditions. In this episode, Claire Murphy shares her journey to an autism and ADHD diagnosis and the profound impact it had on her life. She discusses burnout, workplace challeng...

James Stanbury is Commercial Director at Wellbeing Solutions , with a growing personal insight into ADHD. He champions neurodiversity in the workplace and is pursuing an adult ADHD assessment to better understand his cognitive processes and leadership style. In this episode, James Stanbury shares his personal and professional reflections on neurodiversity, including his decision to pursue an ADHD...

Ian Golden is a communications manager and data specialist diagnosed with autism at 51. He shares his personal story to help others understand late-diagnosed autism and its impact. In this episode, Ian Golden reflects on his late autism diagnosis and how it transformed his self-understanding. He discusses the challenges he faced growing up undiagnosed, the emotions around his assessment, and the c...

Reanne Stanton is a paediatric speech and language therapist working in schools. She supports children with communication needs, including developmental language disorder (DLD), and helps create inclusive, neurodivergent-friendly environments through therapy, training and collaboration. In this episode, Reanne shares insights into her work supporting children in schools. From identifying speech an...

Dr Squee is a podcaster, advocate, and recent ADHD diagnosee. Passionate about celebrating neurodiversity, he’s the creator of Squeefest 5: Think Different, a 24-hour charity livestream supporting neurodivergent communities worldwide. In this lively episode, Dr Squee shares his late ADHD diagnosis journey, his passion for neurodiversity, and how it inspired the creation of Squeefest 5 - a 24-hour...

Tabitha Moynagh is a sleep specialist from Hunrosa, an organisation working with the NHS and beyond to support people—especially neurodivergent children and teens, with sleep difficulties using evidence-based behavioural methods. In this enlightening episode, she's here to unpack the science and challenges of sleep, particularly for neurodivergent individuals. From the role of melatonin and sensor...

Dr Helen Williams, academic and founder of the Breaking Binaries lab at Swansea University, specialises in researching marginalised identities at work, with a focus on neurodivergence and inclusive sport governance. In this inspiring episode, Dr Helen Williams shares her journey from struggling schoolgirl to academic leader. She discusses her ground breaking research into neurodivergence, workplac...

Ben Sims is a physiotherapist with over 15 years’ experience, specialising in chronic pain and its complex relationship with the nervous system and neurodivergence. In this insightful episode, physiotherapist Ben Sims explores the multifaceted nature of chronic pain, its connections to trauma, neurodivergence, and emotional health. From hand pain linked to grief to chronic conditions worsened by s...

Sarah Dole is a mother of two autistic boys, one of whom presents with violent and challenging behaviour. During this chat with Nicola, Sarah opens up about the daily challenges of managing aggressive behaviour at home. She discusses navigating support services, strategies for de-escalation, and the emotional toll on family life.   THE OWL CENTRE The Owl Centre is on a mission to provide the best...

Tim March, a former professional BMXer shares his story of a late diagnosis of autism and ADHD, reflecting on his journey of self-discovery and adaptation. One of the superstars of 80's BMX scene, Tim currently makes custom made high performance BMX bicycles and accessories under his brand MRDBMX . Tim discusses what led to him having an assessment, and the impact the diagnosis has had on his life...

Lloyd Ashley, Personal and Professional Development Manager at the Welsh Rugby Players Association, supports rugby players in their careers, mental well-being, and learning styles, with a focus on neurodiversity. During this chat, Lloyd discusses how neurodivergent traits impact learning, communication, and performance in professional rugby. He shares how the Ospreys and other teams are adapting c...

Andrew Ryder, Head of Neurodiversity at the Owl Centre, is a speech and language therapist passionate about supporting neurodivergent individuals and their families through assessments and tailored guidance. During this chat, Andrew and Nicola walk through the autism and ADHD assessment process, offering practical advice for families navigating neurodivergence. They share insights on the importanc...

In this episode, Bethany Lunney, a 15-year-old author, poet, and competitive swimmer, shares her experiences growing up with autism and her passion for writing and advocacy. Bethany discusses her life as a neurodivergent teenager, her love for swimming, and how writing helps her channel emotions and advocate for others. She introduces her books and shares insights for teens navigating autism, emph...

In this episode, Louisa Harrison introduces PACT (Paediatric Autism Communication Therapy) and its transformative approach to fostering communication and connection. She shares her personal journey as a parent and professional, highlights the evidence-based benefits of PACT therapy, and explains how it empowers families to build meaningful interactions with their autistic children. To find out mor...

Jo, a dedicated dyslexia assessor at the Owl Centre, helps individuals uncover their learning strengths and challenges through assessments and tailored recommendations. In this episode, Jo explains what dyslexia is, how it affects learning and daily life, and the benefits of an assessment. She shares her own journey with dyslexia and offers practical advice for parents, individuals, and educators...

In this episode, Bridget Snasdell discusses her role as a SENCO, the importance of tailored education plans, and navigating the complexities of the SEN and EHCP processes. She offers valuable advice for families and professionals alike, highlighting strategies to foster success for young people with additional needs in education. THE OWL CENTRE The Owl Centre is on a mission to provide the best in...

In this episode, Nicola is joined by her brother, Stevo. Stevo is the reason Nicola became a speech therapist, and later started The Owl Centre. In this episode, Nicola talks to her brother about his journey from childhood challenges to finding his confidence and joy in life. He shares stories of his work, wildlife adventures, and love for family, offering a touching insight into the importance of...

This first episode of Hoot's Who explores the inspiring journey of Nicola Lathey, the founder of the Owl Therapy Centre. Andrew Ryder is the Owl Centre's Head of Neurodiversity, and during this episode he chats with Nic about how her younger brother with Down's syndrome shaped her career as a speech and language therapist, and the evolution of the Owl Therapy Centre from a small private practice t...

Welcome to Hoot ’s Who , the Owl Centre’s Neurodiversity Podcast.   Join us as we explore heartfelt stories, insightful anecdotes, and practical tips from the remarkable people who make up our neurodiversity team. From our dedicated staff members to the inspirational colleagues we collaborate with, each episode brings you closer to the world of neurodiversity, celebrating the unique perspectives a...