Hoots Who
Welcome to Hoots 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 and strengths that make us who we are.
Episodes

Friday May 23, 2025
Friday May 23, 2025
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, workplace exclusion, and how sport can be made more inclusive. Helen highlights how structural change, better understanding, and truly listening can create spaces where everyone thrives.
Connect with Dr Helen Williams: https://www.linkedin.com/in/helen-williams-55a807265/
THE OWL CENTRE
The Owl Centre is on a mission to provide the best independent Autism Assessment, ADHD Assessment and Therapy Services possible.
Learn more about us at The Owl Centre.

Friday May 09, 2025
The Links Between Chronic Pain and Neurodivergence : Ben Sims
Friday May 09, 2025
Friday May 09, 2025
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 stress, Ben shares powerful stories and a fresh perspective on healing. A must-listen for anyone supporting neurodivergent individuals.
THE OWL CENTRE
The Owl Centre is on a mission to provide the best independent Autism Assessment, ADHD Assessment and Therapy Services possible.
Learn more about us at The Owl Centre.

Friday Apr 18, 2025
Teen to Parent Aggression : Sarah Dowle
Friday Apr 18, 2025
Friday Apr 18, 2025
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 independent Autism Assessment, ADHD Assessment and Therapy Services possible.
Learn more about us at The Owl Centre.

Friday Apr 04, 2025
Late Diagnosis: Tim March’s Journey with Autism and ADHD
Friday Apr 04, 2025
Friday Apr 04, 2025
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, both professionally and personally.
THE OWL CENTRE
The Owl Centre is on a mission to provide the best independent Autism Assessment, ADHD Assessment and Therapy Services possible.
Learn more about us at The Owl Centre.

Friday Mar 28, 2025
Friday Mar 28, 2025
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 coaching methods to support players with autism, ADHD, and dyslexia. This episode highlights the importance of individual learning styles, mental health, and career transitions in sport.
THE OWL CENTRE
The Owl Centre is on a mission to provide the best independent Autism Assessment, ADHD Assessment and Therapy Services possible.
Learn more about us at The Owl Centre.

Friday Mar 07, 2025
The Autism & ADHD Assesment Process - Andrew (Head of Neurodiversity)
Friday Mar 07, 2025
Friday Mar 07, 2025
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 importance of early support, how diagnosis can validate experiences, and the unique strengths of neurodivergent individuals.
THE OWL CENTRE
The Owl Centre is on a mission to provide the best independent Autism Assessment, ADHD Assessment and Therapy Services possible.
Learn more about us at The Owl Centre.

Tuesday Feb 25, 2025
Stigma, Creativity and Acceptance: Bethany’s story as a neurodivergent teenager
Tuesday Feb 25, 2025
Tuesday Feb 25, 2025
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, emphasising self-acceptance, hope, and creativity.
THE OWL CENTRE
The Owl Centre is on a mission to provide the best independent Autism Assessment, ADHD Assessment and Therapy Services possible.
Learn more about us at The Owl Centre.

Friday Feb 07, 2025
Enhancing relationships with autistic children : Louisa on PACT Therapy
Friday Feb 07, 2025
Friday Feb 07, 2025
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 more about PACT sessions at The Owl Centre please visit: https://www.theowl.org/pact-therapy/
THE OWL CENTRE
The Owl Centre is on a mission to provide the best independent Autism Assessment, ADHD Assessment and Therapy Services possible.
Learn more about us at The Owl Centre.

Friday Jan 24, 2025
Assessing and Understanding Dyslexia
Friday Jan 24, 2025
Friday Jan 24, 2025
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 to better support those with dyslexic tendencies.
THE OWL CENTRE
The Owl Centre is on a mission to provide the best independent Autism Assessment, ADHD Assessment and Therapy Services possible.
Learn more about us at The Owl Centre.

Friday Jan 10, 2025
Supporting Every Step: Insights from a SENCO with Bridget Snasdell
Friday Jan 10, 2025
Friday Jan 10, 2025
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 independent Autism Assessment, ADHD Assessment and Therapy Services possible.
Learn more about us at The Owl Centre.