Your Voice Matters

Welcome to Your Voice Matters, a podcast amplifying the voices of the SEND and neurodivergent community. Hosted by Asma Jacob, a dedicated SEND Therapist with 20+ years of experience, we create a safe space to share stories, build connections and inspire understanding. In each episode, we explore powerful stories and perspectives from neurodivergent individuals, their families, and professionals dedicated to supporting the SEND community. Together, we address key topics like advocacy, mental health, navigating education, and building inclusive communities. Your Voice Matters is a place where every voice is valued—because real change happens when we listen, learn, and embrace the diversity of human experience. Whether you’re part of the neurodivergent community or an ally, this podcast will leave you inspired, informed, and ready to make an impact. Subscribe today and join the conversation—because your voice matters.

Living with Chronic Illness with Carolyne Shallop 06/04/2025

Living with Chronic Illness with Carolyne Shallop Trigger warning: This episode includes discussions of chronic illness, physical pain, medical trauma, and the emotional impact of living with invisible conditions. Listener discretion is advised. “The more experience you have with something, the less hard it gets. The more knowledge, the more wisdom you have about it. It's freeing your mind.” — Carolyne Shallop In this episode, host Asma Jacob speaks with her niece, Carolyne Shallop, about life with two autoimmune conditions: rheumatoid arthritis and vasculitis. Carolyne opens up about her journey from diagnosis to acceptance, the emotional toll of chronic illness, and how her support network helped her find strength and purpose. This conversation highlights the power of shared experience and the importance of being seen and understood. Whether you're living with an invisible condition or supporting someone who is, this episode offers hope, honesty, and connection. Key Takeaways: It’s okay to do what works best for you, even if it looks different from others. Leaning on trusted people can bring comfort, clarity, and strength. Find supportive healthcare professionals who truly listen and advocate for you. Connecting with others who have similar experiences can help ease feelings of isolation. About Carolyne Shallop: Carolyne Shallop was born in Sierra Leone to Lebanese parents. She moved to England aged 12, with her mum and siblings. For the past 13 and a half years, Carolyne has been living with 2 Autoimmune Disorders. In December of 2008, at the age of 21, she was diagnosed with Rheumatoid Arthritis, after about 9 months of symptoms the majority of which was joint pain. In January of 2014, Carolyne was diagnosed with Vasculitis, after a major flare-up, and in April of 2014, she was told the type of Vasculitis she has is Microscopic Polyangiitis. Learn more about _ Follow Your Voice Matters and connect with Asma on , , and _ Remember to subscribe to Your Voice Matters wherever you listen to podcasts! Share this episode with someone who could benefit from hearing the voice of the SEND and neurodivergent community. /episode/index/show/9b1a5716-4379-4406-a9e1-827e0f699c54/id/36818055

Understanding and Accepting Neurodiversity with Karen Brennan 05/21/2025

Understanding and Accepting Neurodiversity with Karen Brennan Trigger Warning: This episode includes discussions of stigma, isolation, and parental guilt, which may be sensitive for some listeners. In this episode of Your Voice Matters, host Asma Jacob speaks with Karen Brennan, a family practitioner, advocate, and mother, about her journey supporting neurodivergent children and families. Karen shares her personal and professional insights into recognising the signs of a neurodivergent child, navigating diagnoses, and understanding how to best support a neurotypical child. Together, they explore the power of understanding neurodivergence in children, learning to accept, and holding a safe space for parents within the SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities) community. Karen also highlights her work supporting children with additional support needs and their families, emphasing the value of community, education, and self-care for parents. “Parents are not failing and it's not their fault because it's about having the resources, the tools, the energy.” Key Takeaways from the episode: Community and connection can help parents feel seen and supported. Recognising and accepting the signs of neurodivergence in children fosters understanding. It’s important to hold a non-judgmental space for parents of neurodivergent and neurotypical children. Parents of children with additional support need and deserve time for self-care to sustain their wellbeing. About Karen: Karen Brennan is a dedicated parenting practitioner and mother of two, including a child recently diagnosed as autistic. Karen is the founder of Cariad ASD & PDA Hub (formerly Pandarama Parent Support Group North Wales) and works as a self-employed trainer with the PDA Society. Through her advocacy, blogging, and online forums, Karen empowers parents and carers navigating neurodivergence with compassion and practical guidance. Resources: Learn more about Follow Your Voice Matters and Connect with Asma on , , , and . Don’t forget to subscribe to Your Voice Matters wherever you listen to podcasts! Share this episode with someone who could benefit from hearing Asma’s story. /episode/index/show/9b1a5716-4379-4406-a9e1-827e0f699c54/id/36409900

Julia Daunt’s Journey navigating life with ADHD and PDA 04/16/2025

Julia Daunt’s Journey navigating life with ADHD and PDA “I reduce demands before an activity so that my anxiety reduces.” In this episode of Your Voice Matters, Asma Jacob chats with Julia Daunt, a passionate advocate for the neurodivergent community. Julia shares her lived experience with Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) and ADHD, offering insights into how she overcame the challenges she faced from childhood and adulthood. She discusses the lack of early support, the impact of PDA on daily life, and the strategies she has developed to help her succeed. Through her work as an author, blogger, and speaker, Julia raises awareness about PDA and empowers others with practical tools for self-acceptance and support. Key Takeaways: Finding a supportive neurodivergent community can be validating and life-changing. ADHD medication helped Julia process her PDA traits and navigate daily challenges. Letting go of societal expectations allows for more ease in completing daily tasks. “I reduce demands before an activity so that my anxiety reduces. When I'm doing whatever it is what I'm doing, my anxiety obviously will increase, but because it was low to start with, it doesn't go above what I can handle, so I don't get to the point of meltdown. And then after, I'll have a period of recovery, so that it goes down again.” About Julia Daunt: Julia Daunt is an advocate, author, and public speaker dedicated to raising awareness about PDA and ADHD. As a neurodivergent individual, she shares her experiences to promote understanding, acceptance, and better support systems for others. Through her writing, consulting, and public talks, Julia works to empower individuals and families navigating PDA and neurodivergence. Learn more about Follow Your Voice Matters and Connect with Asma on , , and . Don’t forget to subscribe to Your Voice Matters wherever you listen to podcasts! Share this episode with someone who could benefit from hearing Asma’s story. /episode/index/show/9b1a5716-4379-4406-a9e1-827e0f699c54/id/35729940

My experience as a parent of an autistic child with Folashade Dan-Oketola 04/02/2025

Kareena’s journey and capacity as an autistic adult 03/19/2025

Kareena’s journey and capacity as an autistic adult "As an autistic individual, as somebody that's neurodiverse, the ability to organise information and filter out what's important, all those kinds of things, they don't come naturally to us.” In this episode of Your Voice Matters, host Asma Jacob speaks with Kareena Kai, an autistic adult and the founder of Busy Bees Inc Club CIC. Kareena shares her personal journey of navigating the challenges and stigmas associated with being neurodivergent, from self-identification and masking to the struggle of communicating in conventional ways. Together, they explore the transformative power of accepting neurodiversity, the significance of self-advocacy, and the role of supportive communities in helping neurodivergent individuals thrive. Kareena also discusses the importance of resources, awareness, and individualised approaches in managing daily challenges. Key Takeaways: Understanding and embracing neurodiversity can be life-changing. Self-advocacy is crucial for navigating challenges and accessing the right support. Diagnosis and awareness can foster personal growth and self-acceptance. Medication and strategies play different roles in managing symptoms - it’s about what works for the individual. "We all process the world differently and having the right support makes all the difference." About Kareena: Kareena Kai is an autistic adult and the founder of Busy Bees Inc Club CIC, an initiative dedicated to creating inclusive spaces for neurodivergent individuals. She is passionate about raising awareness, challenging stigmas, and advocating for the importance of understanding different communication styles. Through her work, she empowers others to embrace their identities and access the support they need. Learn more about _ Follow Your Voice Matters and connect with Asma on , , and _ Remember to subscribe to Your Voice Matters wherever you listen to podcasts! Share this episode with someone who could benefit from hearing the voice of the SEND and neurodivergent community. /episode/index/show/9b1a5716-4379-4406-a9e1-827e0f699c54/id/35272580

Autism, ADHD, and the Importance of Diagnosis with Jen Slaton 03/05/2025

Masking (The Pressure of Fitting In: Understanding Neurodivergent Masking with Carly Considine) 02/19/2025

Masking (The Pressure of Fitting In: Understanding Neurodivergent Masking with Carly Considine) "Masking is a form of trying to fit into social norms—pretending to be someone you're not. It comes at a cost: burnout, anxiety, and mental health challenges." In this episode of Your Voice Matters, host Asma Jacob welcomes back advocate Carly Considine for another insightful conversation about masking within the neurodivergent community. Carly shares her experiences as an autistic adult and mother of two autistic daughters, offering a candid perspective on how masking can lead to burnout, anxiety, and mental health challenges. Together, they discuss where masking is most prevalent, why some individuals find it helpful, and the importance of creating safe spaces where people feel empowered to be their authentic selves. Carly also shares her thoughts on navigating social expectations and highlights the value of listening to neurodivergent voices when fostering inclusion and acceptance. Key Takeaways: Teach children about inclusion from an early age. Listen to the neurodivergent community and act inclusively. Some individuals may find masking helpful—it’s a personal choice. Recognise that masking can lead to burnout due to the pressure to conform. "We should be allowed to be our authentic selves without feeling the need to fit in to meet societal expectations." About Carly: Carly Considine is an autistic adult from England, diagnosed in 2015, and a mother to two autistic daughters diagnosed in 2019. Carly previously volunteered for the National Autistic Society, co-running the South Wiltshire Branch. She now advocates online, sharing her insights on female autism traits and comorbid conditions like ADHD. Carly is currently pursuing qualifications to further her advocacy work and support the neurodivergent community. Learn more about _ Follow Your Voice Matters and connect with Asma on , , and _ Remember to subscribe to Your Voice Matters wherever you listen to podcasts! Share this episode with someone who could benefit from hearing the voice of the SEND and neurodivergent community. /episode/index/show/9b1a5716-4379-4406-a9e1-827e0f699c54/id/34969520

Antonio's Journey 02/05/2025

Antonio's Journey "We all should be thoughtful of each other. Whether we see something or don't see something, we should all be treated with respect, politeness, and a willingness to learn and grow from whomever we’re interacting with." In this episode of Your Voice Matters, host Asma Jacob speaks with Antonio Myers, a dedicated disability advocate and host of the TonioTimeDaily podcast. Antonio shares his inspiring journey as an autistic adult, highlighting his academic success, his passion for advocacy, and his commitment to fostering respect and positivity. The conversation covers the importance of self-love, understanding different learning styles, and navigating challenges with confidence. Antonio also discusses the impacts of COVID-19 on the neurodivergent community and emphasises the power of empathy and education in debunking myths and changing narratives around neurodiversity. Key Takeaways: Research autism-friendly networks and support systems. Use positive affirmations to build self-confidence. Educate those around you calmly and with empathy. "Choose to refer to yourself with positive affirmations—it sets the tone for how you approach the world." About Antonio: Antonio Myers is a passionate disability advocate and host of the TonioTimeDaily podcast. Overcoming early life challenges due to Pervasive Developmental Disorder, Antonio excelled academically, becoming a valedictorian and earning a degree in Human Services. His advocacy includes work with the DC State Rehabilitation Council and The Brewer Foundation. Antonio’s podcast shares insights on societal issues and promotes human values, available on major platforms like Spotify. Learn more about _ Follow Your Voice Matters and connect with Asma on , , and _ Remember to subscribe to Your Voice Matters wherever you listen to podcasts! Share this episode with someone who could benefit from hearing the voice of the SEND and neurodivergent community. /episode/index/show/9b1a5716-4379-4406-a9e1-827e0f699c54/id/34969435

Finding Strength in Individuality: Empowering Lives with Asma Jacob 01/15/2025

Autism, Identity & Community with Carly Considine 01/15/2025

Autism, Identity & Community with Carly Considine “Surround yourself with people who understand, and you do find your tribe.” In this episode of Your Voice Matters, Asma Jacob chats with Carly Considine, an autistic adult and advocate for the neurodivergent community. Carly shares how her diagnosis brought clarity and improved her mental health, while also opening up about raising three autistic children. She explores the diverse experiences of neurodivergent individuals, the importance of understanding autism in girls and women, and the value of finding a supportive community. Carly’s story offers inspiration, practical advice, and encouragement for anyone navigating similar journeys. Key Takeaways: A diagnosis can bring clarity and support mental health for individuals and families. Every neurodivergent individual’s experience is different and should be treated as such. Autism in girls and women can present differently, requiring greater awareness and understanding. Building a supportive community is essential—online groups can be a great place to start. “Facebook support groups are incredible. You find like-minded friends, like-minded parents, and even autistic adults. You become a community.” About Carly: Carly Considine is an autistic adult diagnosed in 2015, with two autistic daughters diagnosed in 2019. She is a passionate advocate for the neurodivergent community, with a special focus on female autism and comorbidities like ADHD. Carly has volunteered with the National Autistic Society and continues her advocacy work online, sharing her experiences to support others. Learn more about _ Follow Your Voice Matters and connect with Asma on , , and _ Remember to subscribe to Your Voice Matters wherever you listen to podcasts! Share this episode with someone who could benefit from hearing the voice of the SEND and neurodivergent community. /episode/index/show/9b1a5716-4379-4406-a9e1-827e0f699c54/id/34469040

Understanding Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) with Melanie Phipps 01/15/2025

Understanding Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) with Melanie Phipps “Strategies are a really important thing with PDA, but we tend not to call them strategies. We refer to them as helpful approaches because there’s no one-size-fits-all.” In this episode of Your Voice Matters, Asma Jacob talks with Melanie Phipps, a PDA Parenting Mentor and Coach, and a mother of three boys, including one with a PDA profile on the autism spectrum. Melanie shares her personal journey navigating the challenges of PDA and discusses the importance of empowering neurodivergent individuals through flexible, supportive approaches rather than conforming to societal norms. Together, they explore what PDA is, how it manifests, and practical methods to create accommodating environments. Melanie also shares insights on the role of masking and the need for understanding in both home and community settings. Key Takeaways: PDA is characterised by anxiety-driven avoidance of everyday demands, requiring thoughtful, individualised approaches. Flexible strategies, or “helpful approaches,” can support children with PDA while reducing stress and fostering growth. The importance of recognising and respecting masking behaviours, while creating spaces where individuals feel safe to “unmask.” Empowering neurodivergent individuals means adapting to their needs, not forcing conformity to societal expectations. “There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to PDA. What works one day might not work the next, but having a toolbox of approaches makes all the difference.” About Melanie:Melanie Phipps is a PDA Parenting Mentor and Coach and a mother of three boys. Her personal journey includes navigating the complexities of PDA and autism diagnoses for her sons, a 17-year-old with a dual ASD/PDA diagnosis and a 10-year-old with an ASD diagnosis. Through her experiences, Melanie advocates for a greater understanding of PDA and supports families on their own journeys. Melanie’s Linktree: Melanie’s website: PDA Society Website: Learn more about _ Follow Your Voice Matters and connect with Asma on , , and _ Remember to subscribe to Your Voice Matters wherever you listen to podcasts! Share this episode with someone who could benefit from hearing the voice of the SEND and neurodivergent community. /episode/index/show/9b1a5716-4379-4406-a9e1-827e0f699c54/id/34469205

Isolation and Inclusion in the Neurodivergent Community with Carly Considine 01/15/2025

Isolation and Inclusion in the Neurodivergent Community with Carly Considine “Listen to autistic voices because you will not get the same advice in a book that you would from people who live it every day.” In this episode of Your Voice Matters, host Asma Jacob speaks with Carly Considine, an autistic adult and mother of three, about the challenges of isolation and the importance of inclusion within the neurodivergent community. Carly shares her personal experiences with raising two autistic daughters and a son awaiting an ADHD assessment, offering insights into how empathy, awareness, and education can help combat isolation and foster understanding. Together, they explore shifting the narrative around neurodivergence, building supportive communities, and creating an inclusive world where every individual is valued for who they are. Key Takeaways · Shifting away from functioning labels to recognising individual neurodivergent experiences. · The power of community in reducing isolation and offering support. · How schools and parents can help build empathy and understanding in children. · Listening to neurodivergent voices as a key to learning and building inclusion. “We have a voice, and neurotypicals can learn so much from us because we are living experiences. A textbook is not going to explain every single individual.” About Carly: Carly Considine is an autistic adult and mother of three. Diagnosed in 2015, Carly has been an advocate for the neurodivergent community, including volunteering for the National Autistic Society. She now shares her experiences online to support others, focusing on topics like female autism traits, ADHD comorbidities, and building awareness for inclusion. Facebook: Learn more about _ Follow Your Voice Matters and connect with Asma on , , and _ Remember to subscribe to Your Voice Matters wherever you listen to podcasts! Share this episode with someone who could benefit from hearing the voice of the SEND and neurodivergent community. /episode/index/show/9b1a5716-4379-4406-a9e1-827e0f699c54/id/34469465

Your Voice Matters Trailer 12/11/2024

Your Voice Matters

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