In the latest episode of A Different Brilliant, host Madeleine Jane Lobsey is joined by Michael Theo and therapist and author Jodi Rodgers to explore relationships, dating, intimacy and consent.

Together, they unpack common myths, including the idea that people on the autism connection don’t want romantic or physical connection, and highlight the diversity of neurodivergent experience when it comes to love, communication and sensuality.

Topics include:

• Navigating dating as an Autistic person

• How to build healthy relationships and self-worth

• Understanding consent through an Autistic lens

• Supporting young people and adults with inclusive sex and relationships education

• The power of trial-and-error, resilience and authentic connection

Whether you’re an Autistic adult, a parent or carer, or a professional supporting neurodivergent people, this episode offers both practical insights and moving lived experience.

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Join host Madeleine Jane Lobsey and Aspect’s Positive Behaviour Support practitioner Anna James as they discuss Pathological Demand Avoidance or PDA and autism strategies and why anxiety, not defiance, drives avoidance.

Also known as Persistent Drive for Autonomy and Pervasive Drive for Autonomy, Anna offers examples and practical tips for parents, educators and employers when working with Autistic children and adults.

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In this episode of a different brilliant, host Madeline Jaine Lobsey is joined by 2021 Australian of the Year, Grace Tame — advocate, author, artist and proud autistic woman — for a powerful conversation about autism and masking.

Together, they unpack the lived experience of masking: the conscious and unconscious effort many Autistic people make to hide or suppress their needs to feel safe, fit in, or survive in a world not designed for them. Grace shares with honesty and insight how masking shaped her life, the cost it can have on physical and mental health, and the profound impact of finding safe spaces and genuine connections.

Whether you're Autistic, a parent, educator, health professional or ally — this deeply human conversation will give you new insights into identity, safety, resilience, and why understanding autism from lived experience matters.

Warning

The following podcast discusses sexual abuse. If this causes you distress, please seek professional help or contact 1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732).