In this conversation, author, screenwriter and teacher Claire McGowan shares what it’s been like to receive an autism diagnosis at 43 — and how that discovery is reshaping her understanding of her life, identity, and creative work.

In this episode, we discuss:

Claire’s late autism diagnosis and the path that led to it
The mix of grief, anger, relief, and curiosity that followed
Growing up in Northern Ireland in the 80s and why autism wasn’t on the radar
Sensory overwhelm — from public transport to event spaces
Hyperfocus, productivity, and writing 28 books in 14 years
What Claire hopes will change in how society supports autistic adults

Claire also shares about the importance of talking about neurodiversity.

Claire McGowan website https://www.clairemcgowan.co.uk/

Claire’s book The Other Couple https://www.clairemcgowan.co.uk/books

Claire on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/clairemcgowanwriter

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If you are an autistic person who has written a book about autism or if you have a guest suggestion email me at info@theautisticwoman.com.

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June 24-28, 2026 In Rewilding Together

An Autism Diagnosis Rewrites the Story