Unapologetically Whole
Unapologetically Whole is the podcast for anyone who’s ever felt invisible while holding everyone else together. Hosted by attorney, advocate, and lifelong caregiver Lola Dada-Olley, this show is a raw, honest invitation to reclaim your story and rebuild your sense of self without abandoning your responsibilities or values. Through deeply personal storytelling and candid conversations, Lola explores the layers we carry: as caregivers, professionals, parents, partners, and cycle-breakers navigating cultural stigma, trauma, and the pursuit of wholeness in a world that often asks us to disappear.
Each episode offers a practical, three-part framework for transformation: Recognize the lane you’re in, Redefine success beyond external validation, and Reimagine what it means to truly thrive. You’ll hear real lessons from lived experience—how to hold the tension between vigilance and joy, how to honor incremental progress, and how to shine your light in a world that can feel dark. Whether you’re a caregiver, a leader, or simply someone searching for permission to exist beyond your roles, Unapologetically Whole bridges the gap between personal healing and professional reinvention, creating space for authentic community and honest growth.
This podcast is the companion to Lola’s forthcoming memoir, Unapologetically Whole: A Memoir About Autism, Caregiving, and Owning Your Story, coming June 2026. If these conversations resonate with you, help us extend the reach—subscribe, share with a friend, and leave a rating or review. Your voice helps others find the hope, healing, and wholeness they deserve.
Episodes
Owning Your Story: A Short Reflection with Lola
The Non-Linear Journey to Healing: A Talk with Author and Self Advocate Lisa Hurley
Goodbye Not Your Mama's Autism ... Hello Unapologetically Whole
The Power of Self-Awareness and Self-Acceptance: A Talk with Author and Self-Advocate Lisa Hurley
On The Road To Wholeness, A Family Episode
Navigating Transitions in Family Life
Sensory Overload: A Talk with The Filmmakers of the Hulu Documentary
Better Understanding Challenging Behavior: A Talk with Larissa Heise, BCBA
Creating Cultures of Neuroinclusion: A Talk with Dr. Theresa Haskins
Serving Families in Crisis: A Conversation with Breanna Kelly-Higgs LCSW, BCBA
Access to Reproductive Health Care: Autism and Intellectual Disability Edition
Advocacy in Action: A Talk with Ms. Texas 2024 Annette Addo-Yobo
Navigating the High School Transition: A Talk With My Son
Workplace Neuroinclusion Strategy: Some Lessons Learned
Reintegrating Our Daughter Into School Life
Back To School: Embracing Technology and Student-Centered Learning
Addressing Daily Life Challenges with Revolutionary Tools: A Talk With Nadia Hamilton
Healthcare in America: New Year; New(ish) Expenses
2023: Our Longest, Yet Shortest, Year To Date
Redefining Success For Yourself After Trauma : A Talk With Addis Gonte
"Tweendom", Puberty and Autism: An Interesting Cocktail
Autism, Self-Advocacy, Therapy and Everything in Between: A Talk With Janelle Johnson
A Candid Conversation with Psychologist and Parent Advocate, Dr. Tade Akere
Healthcare Delivery, Parenting, Advocacy and a Little Forgiveness Along the Way
A Later in Life Diagnosis: A Talk with Attorney and Self-Advocate LaNasha Houze