Learning to Love Autism, with Jo Long

Rough mornings, emotional outbursts, and bedtime struggles can feel even more overwhelming when you're parenting a neurodivergent child.In this compassionate and practical conversation with Jo, we discuss how to handle emotional outbursts, support smoother transitions to school and create calmer mornings and bedtimes tailored to your child’s needs. We also explore how working with a parent coach can be a game changer: giving you the support, strategies, and validation you deserve. Most importantly, we talk about shifting the focus from 'managing behaviour' to truly recognising and celebrating your child’s strengths and brilliance. If you’re navigating parenting through a neurodivergent lens, this episode will help you feel seen, supported, and more confident in your journey.Thank you for listening,Stay wild xCopyright 2026 Lucy ColganI’d love to hear from you! You can find us on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube - be sure to subscribe here so you never miss an episode - and check out our FREE Substack newsletter!Enjoying the show? You can rate and review the podcast here - your feedback helps more listeners discover the show, builds our community, and keeps the episodes coming! About the Host:Lucy Colgan is a seasoned creative leader, educator and podcast host with nearly two decades of experience in the arts and education. She holds a PGCE in Drama & Performing Arts and a Professional Diploma in Dance from Trinity Laban, and has worked as a freelance artist, project manager, and director across the creative sector.She launched The Wilderness of Creativity in 2024 and invites listeners to explore what it really means to 'take the road less travelled', combining vulnerability, practical insight and inspirational storytelling.Want to learn more about today’s guest? Check out their full bio and links below!Jo Long is a Parenting Coach for mums of Autistic/ADHD kids up to age 11, diagnosed or not. She combines lived experience with practical tools to help you move out of survival mode — fast. Her son is bright, autistic with ADHD. She knows the heartbreak of watching your child struggle, the self-doubt of wondering “Is it me?”, and the pressure to keep everything together when you’re crumbling inside. But she also knows there’s a better way. Jo's WebsiteMentioned in this episode:Like this show?