The Unfinished Idea
That Sounds Fun Network
Welcome to The Unfinished Idea, a space for you to expand your understanding about the neurodiverse world that is all around us.What is it like raising a child with ADHD and autism? How does a neurodivergent person see and interact with the world? This podcast will share practical help, tips, and insights into the joys, struggles, and differences of everyday experiences of this special world. I'm Greer, mom to two boys & two dogs and, together with my husband, raising a child with Special Educational Needs. Our day-to-day experience isn't being talked about in everyday life and I see a gap i...
Relationships: Mutual Understanding with Ian
Ian and I explore what it’s like when both people in a relationship are neurodivergent. We dive into how that shared understanding can create a unique bond—sometimes, your partner just gets it without you needing to explain. Whether it’s recognising when you’re overwhelmed, understanding sensory needs, or knowing how to support each other during a meltdown, there’s a natural connection that can feel incredibly validating.But it’s not always smooth sailing. Ian opens up about the moments when ove
Relationships: NeuroDiverseLove with Mona
In this episode of The Unfinished Idea, I sit down with Mona, host of NeuroDiverseLove, to dive into everything—and I mean everything—about relationships through a neurodiverse lens. If you’ve ever wondered how neurodivergence can shape love, connection, and communication, this conversation is for you.Mona shares her personal experiences and the lessons she’s learned along the way, offering insights that will resonate whether you’re neurodivergent yourself or in a relationship with someone who i
Relationships: Of All Kinds with Marcy
In this episode I sit down with Marcy Caldwell, @dr.marcycaldwell to dive into the beautiful complexities of relationships when neurodivergence is part of the picture. We explore the unique strengths and challenges that neurodivergent individuals bring to relationships—whether romantic, familial, or friendships. Marcy shares her personal experiences and wisdom on how neurodivergent brains can foster deep connections, creativity, and resilience, while also navigating struggles like communication
Reset: Spicy-Mama Relaxation
In this episode, I have the absolute pleasure of speaking with Catie, @catie,mchardy, a mother of four neurodivergent children, each with their own distinct needs and personalities. Catie’s household is a whirlwind of energy, love, and unique challenges that come with raising a family where every member is on their own neurodivergent journey.Catie shares the story of how, during the process of her daughter’s autism and ADHD diagnosis, she had an epiphany: she, too, was Autistic and ADHD. We disc
Reset: Helping Your Body- ND Style
In this episode, I sit down with Leighanne, @projectyouacademy, a fitness and life coach who brings a unique perspective to wellness by incorporating neurodivergent (ND) focus into her approach. We talk about what it really looks like to take care of our physical bodies—especially for those of us who are neurodivergent.Leighanne shares her insights on the challenges neurodivergent people face when it comes to fitness, health, and overall well-being. She also talks about the toll being neurodiver
Reset: Taking Time for Yourself
In this episode, I sit down with Claire @athenticallyyouspeach to talk about one of the most important—and often overlooked—topics for parents of neurodivergent children: self-care. Claire shares some insightful thoughts on how even small moments of self-care can make a big difference for parents, helping them stay regulated and better equipped to support their children.We dive into what self-care can look like, especially for parents juggling the unique challenges of raising neurodivergent kids
Reset: Autistic Burnout in Children
In this episode, I sit down with Debbie, a mom who shares her powerful and heartfelt journey of supporting her daughter through autistic burnout. For over three years, Debbie has navigated the ups and downs of this experience, and she opens up about the struggles her family has faced.We discuss the challenges her daughter encountered in school, the overwhelming uncertainty of not knowing how to help, and the difficult realities that come with advocating for a child in burnout. Debbie’s story she
Reset: Autistic Burnout in Adults
In this episode, I have a heartfelt conversation with Kelsey about Autistic burnout—a topic that is often overlooked but profoundly affects many in the neurodivergent community. Kelsey shares from her own personal experiences with burnout, shedding light on what it looks like and how it can impact every aspect of life.We also dive into practical strategies for managing burnout, including Kelsey’s innovative product, the Calm Crate—a thoughtfully designed toolkit to help people when they’re feeli
Reset: Being Overwhelmed
In this episode, I sit down with Sass, @emotionallycoaching to talk about the experience of feeling overwhelmed, especially from the perspective of a neurodivergent person. We dive into the unique signs and triggers that can lead to overwhelm, and Sass shares her wisdom on practical strategies for staying calm and grounded during these moments.We also discuss how those around us—friends, family, colleagues—can provide better support when we’re feeling overwhelmed. This conversation was both insi
(Random) Chat with Chris and Greer
Join us for a laid-back and shorter episode as Chris and Greer have a random chat to wrap up the year. In this conversation, we share some personal lessons learned and discuss the unique experience of raising a neurodivergent son. Chris opens up about the role of structure in his life and how it has shaped his journey.It's a casual and slightly fun (beware of the dad jokes!) episode to end the year on a lighthearted note.The Point to Ponder are Neurocards created by Amy Peters at Newglade Counse
Meeting the Community: First year of diagnosis with Laura James
In today’s episode, I have the pleasure of chatting with Laura James, the author of Odd Girl Out, a memoir about her journey to understanding herself as a woman with autism. Laura shares her personal experience of being diagnosed as an adult and the profound impact it had on her life. We dive into what the first year of diagnosis was like for her, and the process of re-learning who she was through a neurodivergent lens.Laura is not only insightful but incredibly funny and down-to-earth. She give
Meeting the Community: Asking different questions & the SenLife App
In this episode, I sit down with Clare, the co-founder of the innovative app SenLife, @senlifeuk. Clare opens up about her journey as a mother raising two neurodivergent sons, who are now teenagers. Together, we explore the complexities of parenting in a neurodiverse family and the questions that often run through Clare’s mind, such as, "Why are we doing this activity, and is it truly helpful for our family?"Clare shares how this reflective approach has transformed her parenting style, allowing
Meet the Community: Changing stigma to life experiences (in the classroom)
In today’s episode, I sit down with Jeannie, the CEO and Founder of ADHD Wise UK, @adhdwiseuk a wonderful organization that is making a real difference in the lives of individuals, families, and schools navigating the complexities of ADHD. Jeannie brings a wealth of knowledge and a deeply personal perspective to the conversation, and I’m so excited to share her insights with you.We dive into her own experiences in school, where she faced the challenges of ADHD firsthand, and discuss how that jou
Meet the Community: Those Sitting Around My Thanksgiving Table
This Thanksgiving, I gathered with friends and family around my table for a heartfelt conversation about supporting children with additional needs. We shared our personal stories and perspectives on what living with ADHD and autism is really like in our home, creating a warm and honest atmosphere.Each guest reflected on their unique experiences, from the little victories to the tough moments. It was a powerful reminder of the importance of community, understanding, and love in navigating the com
Top Tips for traveling & the holiday season with neurodivergence in mind
In this short but sweet 15-minute episode, I’m sharing some of my top tips for traveling as a neurodivergent family. As many of us know, the holiday season and travel can be stressful at the best of times, but when you’re navigating the unique challenges that come with being a neurodivergent family, it can feel even more overwhelming.I talk about a few practical strategies we use to make trips smoother, less stressful, and more enjoyable for everyone involved. From managing sensory needs to esta
Meet the Community: I won't give up
In this deeply personal episode, Greer sits down with a dear friend, Ange, who has been courageously navigating the challenges of the local council and school system in the UK to secure the support her child needs. Together, they delve into the often overwhelming journey of advocacy, sharing both the heart-wrenching struggles and the small victories that make it all worthwhile.Throughout their conversation, they reflect on the emotional toll of fighting for a child's rights and needs, discussin
Meet the Community: ADHD and all that comes with it
In today’s episode, I sit down with Jean, a mom to two boys, one of whom have ADHD—along with herself! We dive deep into what life is really like with ADHD, from the constant fidgeting to the superhuman ability to hyper-focus. Jean shares her personal journey, and we get into some candid, funny, and insightful conversations about the ups and downs of living with ADHD.One of the most eye-opening parts of our chat is when Jean opens up about what it’s like being a woman with ADHD. She shares how i
Meet the Community: Creating Safe Spaces
In this enlightening episode, I have the pleasure of sitting down with Scott, @autisticallyscott, co-author of Creating Safe Spaces for Autistic People. Together, we delve into the essential topic of fostering environments where everyone, especially those with additional needs, can feel secure and understood.Scott shares his wealth of knowledge, offering practical and easy steps to create safe spaces at home, in schools, workplaces, and during various social activities. We cover a range of strat
Meet the Community: NeuroTherapy
I talk with Amy Peters, who is a professional neurodivergent counselor at Newglade Counselling. We talk about the Neurocards she created and we use on the podcast. As well as why it might be helpful for a neurodivergent person or family to have counseling and some of the traumas they might experience. I ask the question how friends can help and support when there is trauma. This conversation really dives deep about ways to heal from trauma and how we can all support each other at different level
Meet the Community: Late Diagnosis
Today, I'm joined by Melissa Booth-Simonsen, who shares her transformative experience of being diagnosed with autism just before turning 50. Prior to this, she had spent decades figuring out her unique needs and masking behaviors to fit into a neurotypical world. Melissa discusses the impact of her diagnosis, navigating sensory needs, and battling autism burnout. My conversation with Melissa on neurodiversity is a vivid reflection of how individuals can navigate and thrive with their unique neur
Meet the Community: My Story as a Mother Raising a Child with Special Educational Needs
Hi friends! I'm Greer and my journey -- filled with both immense joys and significant challenges -- ultimately fuels my resolve to become an advocate, not only for my child but for all neurodivergent individuals.My story begins in a small town in Washington State, but my path soon lead me across the Atlantic to England where I started a family and embarked on an unexpected yet profound journey: raising a child with special educational needs. From navigating a broken educational system to advocat
What is The Unfinished Idea?
Join Greer as she explores the world of neurodiversity, sharing her journey of raising a child with additional needs alongside her husband, two boys, and their dogs. This podcast bridges the gap in conversations about neurodivergence, offering practical tips and insights for parents, friends, teachers, and neighbors. Each week, Greer engages in 30-minute interviews with others in the neurodiverse community, inviting listeners to learn, grow, and feel validated. Subscribe now to receive weekly ep