Neurodivergent Mates

Hosted by Will Wheeler

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Nov 2025

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About the show

“Neurodivergent Mates is a podcast delving into Neurodiversity and Mental Health, hosted by neurodivergent professional – Will, the ADHD and Dyslexic host. Will candidly shares his personal experiences, discussing topics like relationships, dating, addiction, trauma, sex, education, careers, parenting, the workplace, and more.”

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November 26, 2025Episode 831 hr 0 min

Universities, Neurodivergence, and the Future of Inclusion - Cas Guerra

Send us Fan Mail In this important episode, Will sits down with Cas Guerra to explore what true inclusion in higher education really looks like for neurodivergent students. Together, they unpack how universities are moving beyond traditional support models and shifting towards more proactive, accessible and neuro-inclusive learning environments. Cas shares real-world insights from their work at Collarts, including the challenges institutions face, the changes that are already making a difference, and what still needs to happen for long-term, meaningful inclusion. This conversation covers: The current state of accessibility and neuro-inclusion in tertiary education How universities can move beyond accommodations towards systemic change The role of educators, leadership, and culture in shaping inclusive campuses What the future of learning could look like when neurodivergent voices are centred A must-listen for educators, students, leaders, and anyone passionate about transforming education for neurodivergent learners. 🎧 Podcast Questions 1. Can you share a bit about your journey as a neurodivergent person, and how that has shaped the role you’re currently doing as the Equitable Learning & Accessibility Coordinator at Collarts? 2. From your perspective, what are some of the biggest barriers neurodivergent students still face in universities and creative institutions today? 3. A lot of universities focus on accommodations — how can institutions shift towards proactive, system-wide neuro-inclusion instead of reactive support? 4. What are some examples of changes Collarts has made (or is working towards) that you’ve seen genuinely impact neurodivergent student experiences? 5. How do educators and academic staff play a role in shaping inclusive environments, and what practical steps can they take tomorrow to be more neuro-inclusive? 6. Looking ahead, what do you think the future of inclusive education could look like if neurodivergent voices are truly centred in design and decision-making? 7. For neurodivergent students who might be listening and struggling to navigate university systems, what advice or reassurance would you want to give them based on your experience? 8. And finally, if people want to connect with you or follow your work, where’s the best place for them to find you? 🔗 Want more episodes like this? If you enjoyed this conversation, make sure to check out more episodes of Neurodivergent Mates at: https://neurodiversityacademy.com/neu... Explore past episodes, guest insights, and resources to support neuro-inclusive education, work and life. Please be sure to subscribe, like and follow all our social media platforms. Click on our Linktree link provided below to access all of our social media platforms: https://linktr.ee/openheartedapp?fbclid=IwAR3Mk3FNMMbC4_EwZaHwzHNgugWNL4Pnm7dANcrcEMKRKXfYFN5SPGgSGcU

November 5, 2025Episode 8258 min

Sparkling Minds: Parenting the Neurodivergent Way - Sarah Hayden

Send us Fan Mail In this heartfelt episode of Neurodivergent Mates, Will Wheeler chats with Sarah Hayden — accredited social worker, equine-assisted psychotherapist, and bestselling author of Parenting Different: How to Raise Your Neurodivergent Kids to Be Their Authentic, Awesome Selves. Sarah shares her incredible journey as a neurodivergent mum of five, including world-renowned actor, author, and advocate Chloé Hayden. With warmth, humour, and honesty, she reflects on life as a parent, foster carer, and advocate — having supported more than 55 foster children, volunteered for refugees and disaster-affected communities, and worked tirelessly to promote inclusion and emotional wellbeing. Together, Will and Sarah dive into the joys and challenges of parenting through a neurodivergent lens — from finding creative family rhythms and embracing imperfection to understanding strengths, struggles, and the unique spark that neurodivergent parents bring to family life. It’s a moving and uplifting conversation that celebrates difference, compassion, and the beauty of parenting the neurodivergent way. Questions asked during the podcast: 1. To start off — can you tell us a bit about yourself and what “Sparkling Minds” means to you? 2. What do you think are some of the biggest strengths that neurodivergent parents bring to their families? 3. Parenting can be unpredictable at the best of times — how do you navigate those moments when ADHD or other neurodivergent traits show up in daily family life? 4. How has being neurodivergent shaped the way you connect with your kids and understand their needs? 5. A lot of parents put pressure on themselves to “get it right.” What helps you let go of that pressure and just enjoy parenting your way? 6. What are some fun or creative routines, hacks, or “sparkling” moments that make your family life work? 7. Finally, what message would you share with other neurodivergent parents who might be struggling or feeling like they’re not doing enough? To checkout other neurodivergent mates podcast, please visit: https://neurodiversityacademy.com/neu... Please be sure to subscribe, like and follow all our social media platforms. Click on our Linktree link provided below to access all of our social media platforms: https://linktr.ee/openheartedapp?fbclid=IwAR3Mk3FNMMbC4_EwZaHwzHNgugWNL4Pnm7dANcrcEMKRKXfYFN5SPGgSGcU

October 20, 2025Episode 811 hr 2 min

Building for Impact: Starting a Neurodiversity Startup - Pratik Bhumkar

Send us Fan Mail In this episode, Will sits down with his business partner and mate, Pratik Bhumkar, to dive deep into the story behind Neurodiversity Academy — how it started, why it matters, and what it really takes to build something that makes a difference. Together, they open up about the highs and lows of creating a social impact organisation, from big wins to unexpected challenges, and why building for purpose often means taking the harder road. This honest and down-to-earth conversation shines a light on the realities of growing a mission-driven business that’s working to create a more neuro-inclusive future — one partnership, one learner, and one organisation at a time. Questions: Pratik, please share with the audience a bit about yourself. What inspired us to create Neurodiversity Academy, and what problem were we trying to solve in the education space? What were some of the biggest challenges in building the platform and turning our vision into something real? How would you describe the difference between building a social impact business versus a traditional startup focused purely on profit? What have been some of the biggest lessons or turning points for us as co-founders working in the neurodiversity and education space? Running a social impact organisation isn’t easy — what’s one challenge we faced that really tested our resilience, and how did we push through it? Let’s talk about the future — what does success look like for Neurodiversity Academy over the next few years? For anyone listening who wants to start their own purpose-driven business, what advice would we give them about building something that truly creates change? Where can people connect with you? Please be sure to subscribe, like and follow all our social media platforms. Click on our Linktree link provided below to access all of our social media platforms: https://linktr.ee/openheartedapp?fbclid=IwAR3Mk3FNMMbC4_EwZaHwzHNgugWNL4Pnm7dANcrcEMKRKXfYFN5SPGgSGcU

October 1, 2025Episode 8059 min

Strength-Based Support: Growing Students and Staff Together - Josh Michel

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of Neurodivergent Mates , I’m joined by Josh Michel , Programs and Pathways Manager at Co-Hive . With a career that spans from the kitchens of Sydney’s top restaurants to leadership roles in education, Josh brings a unique perspective on supporting both students and staff. Josh has spent years developing strength-based strategies to help learners thrive, particularly those from diverse backgrounds including physical, neurological, and intellectual disabilities. He’s passionate about empowering staff to grow alongside their students, creating a ripple effect of support throughout the community. Conversation Questions: 1. Josh, to kick things off, can you introduce yourself and share a bit about your background and the work you do? 2. You mentioned you focus on playing to students’ strengths—what does that look like in practice? 3. Can you share an example of a strategy you’ve used that really helped a student thrive? 4. How do you go about embedding these strength-based approaches across different student groups or learning environments? 5. You’ve also talked about building up the skills of staff. What are some ways you empower staff to better support students? 6. Have you noticed a change in student outcomes when staff feel more confident and equipped in this area? 7. On a personal note, what motivates you to continue this work, and what have you learned from your own journey? 8. Finally, if our listeners want to connect with you or learn more about your work, where’s the best place for them to find you? 🎧 To listen to more episodes of Neurodivergent Mates, visit the link below 👇 https://neurodiversityacademy.com/neurodivergentmates #NeurodivergentMates #StrengthBasedLearning #NeurodiversityInEducation #StudentAndStaffSupport #InclusiveEducation Please be sure to subscribe, like and follow all our social media platforms. Click on our Linktree link provided below to access all of our social media platforms: https://linktr.ee/openheartedapp?fbclid=IwAR3Mk3FNMMbC4_EwZaHwzHNgugWNL4Pnm7dANcrcEMKRKXfYFN5SPGgSGcU

September 17, 2025Episode 791 hr 1 min

Beyond Imagination: Writing with Aphantasia and Autism - Alina Bellchambers

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of Neurodivergent Mates, Will chats with South Australian author Alina Bellchambers, whose fantasy duo-logy The Order of Masks and The Weight of Crowns (Pan Macmillan) is being called a “feminist Game of Thrones.” Diagnosed as autistic at 29 and living with aphantasia, Alina shares how she writes epic worlds without mental imagery, her journey from struggling student to breakout author and actor, and how embracing her neurodivergence has shaped her creativity and success. Questions Alina, to kick things off, could you introduce yourself and share a little about your journey into writing? You grew up surrounded by stories in your family’s Adelaide bookshop — how did that environment shape your love for storytelling? You’ve spoken about writing being a retreat for you during difficult times growing up. Can you tell us what role writing played in your life back then? You were diagnosed as autistic at 29, after years of searching for answers. How did finally receiving that diagnosis change things for you? You also live with aphantasia, which means you can’t visualise images in your mind. How does that affect the way you create such vivid and epic fantasy worlds? Your duology The Order of Masks and The Weight of Crowns has been described as a “feminist Game of Thrones.” What inspired these stories and the strong female protagonists at the heart of them? On top of being an author, you’re also an actor, recently appearing in Bring Her Back. How do writing and acting complement each other for you? Finally, where can our listeners find your books, follow your work, and connect with you online? 🎧 To check out more episodes, visit Neurodivergent Mates Please be sure to subscribe, like and follow all our social media platforms. Click on our Linktree link provided below to access all of our social media platforms: https://linktr.ee/openheartedapp?fbclid=IwAR3Mk3FNMMbC4_EwZaHwzHNgugWNL4Pnm7dANcrcEMKRKXfYFN5SPGgSGcU

August 28, 2025Episode 781 hr 1 min

Parenting, Resilience and Neurodiversity: A Conversation with My Mum

Send us Fan Mail In this very special episode of Neurodivergent Mates, I’m joined by my mum, Marilyn Wheeler, to have an open and honest conversation about what it was like raising neurodivergent children. From the early challenges of navigating school systems and limited support, to the strategies that helped (and the ones that didn’t), Marilyn shares her experiences across different stages of parenting — from childhood to teenage years and into adulthood. Together, we explore what has changed, what still needs to change, and the advice she would give to parents who are just beginning their journey. This episode is a heartfelt reflection on resilience, family, and the power of understanding. Podcast Questions To kick things off, can you share a little bit about yourself and our family? Thinking back to when I was little, what were some of the biggest challenges you faced as a parent of neurodivergent children? When you first realised I was neurodivergent, what kind of support — or maybe lack of support — did you get from schools, professionals, or even the community? Over the years, what approaches or strategies did you find the most helpful in supporting me and [siblings, if relevant] as we grew up? Were there things you tried along the way that didn’t really work, or things you wish you’d done differently? How did things shift as I grew into a teenager and then an adult? What new challenges or opportunities came up during those stages? From your perspective, what do you think still needs to change in schools, communities, or workplaces to better support both neurodivergent kids and their families? And finally, what advice would you give to parents today who are just beginning their journey raising a neurodivergent child? 👉 To check out more episodes, visit neurodiversityacademy.com/neurodivergentmates #NeurodivergentParenting #NeurodiversityJourney #ParentingNeurodivergentKids #NeurodiversityMatters #FamilyAndNeurodiversity Please be sure to subscribe, like and follow all our social media platforms. Click on our Linktree link provided below to access all of our social media platforms: https://linktr.ee/openheartedapp?fbclid=IwAR3Mk3FNMMbC4_EwZaHwzHNgugWNL4Pnm7dANcrcEMKRKXfYFN5SPGgSGcU

August 5, 2025Episode 771 hr 0 min

Rethinking ADHD Support in Tertiary Education - Dr Natasha Arthars

Send us Fan Mail 🎙️ Neurodivergent Mates — Episode Title: Rethinking ADHD Support in Tertiary Education - Dr Natasha Arthars Guest: Dr Natasha Arthars , Postdoctoral Research Fellow, QUT In this episode, we’re joined by the insightful Dr Natasha Arthars — an award-winning researcher, educator, and systems thinker with a passion for creating meaningful, student-centred learning experiences. With a deep background in VET, educational research, and a personal drive to tackle “wicked problems” in learning design, Natasha brings a powerful lens to a conversation that matters. Together, we explore: 🧠 How ADHD impacts executive functioning — and what this means for learning, focus, planning, and emotional regulation. 🎓 The hidden challenges ADHD students face when transitioning to tertiary education, like TAFE or university. ⏳ Why "extra time" isn't the golden solution — and what research says about its limited impact. ✅ What actually works — evidence-based accommodations and inclusive practices that help ADHD students thrive. 🧩 How educators can redesign learning environments that don’t just tick boxes but create real engagement. Interview Questions — Neurodivergent Mates with Dr Natasha Arthars 1. To start us off, can you share a bit about yourself and your background? 2. How does brain development in young people with ADHD—particularly in the prefrontal cortex—affect executive functioning? 3. What are some of the key challenges students with ADHD face when transitioning into tertiary education, like TAFE or university? 4. What supports and accommodations are typically made available to students with ADHD in tertiary settings? 5. There’s research suggesting that additional time on exams and assignments—while common—might not always be effective. What does the evidence say about this approach? 6. What evidence-based strategies should institutions consider offering instead of—or in addition to—extra time? 7. In terms of learning access, what are some ways educators can make lectures or classes more ADHD-friendly? 8. Finally, where can people connect with you if they’d like to learn more about your work or research? Whether you're an educator looking to better support your students or someone navigating ADHD firsthand, this episode offers practical insights and important takeaways for building more inclusive tertiary education systems. Please check out the research paper Dr Natasha Arthars mentioned in the podcast - Exploring the Perspectives of Australian Neurodivergent University Students. Please be sure to subscribe, like and follow all our social media platforms. Click on our Linktree link provided below to access all of our social media platforms: https://linktr.ee/openheartedapp?fbclid=IwAR3Mk3FNMMbC4_EwZaHwzHNgugWNL4Pnm7dANcrcEMKRKXfYFN5SPGgSGcU

July 22, 2025Episode 7654 min

Neurodiversity in Retail: Beyond the Shopfront - Natalie Phillips-Mason

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of Neurodivergent Mates , we explore the intersection of neurodiversity and retail with inclusion advocate and strategist Natalie Phillips-Mason. Natalie shares her personal journey and what led her to champion neuro-inclusion in one of the most fast-paced and sensory-rich industries—retail. We unpack the unique challenges neurodivergent individuals face, whether they're behind the counter or browsing the aisles. From staff training and workplace adjustments to customer experience and inclusive design, Natalie offers practical strategies for creating more accessible and welcoming spaces for all minds. Questions - Can you share a bit about your background and what drew you to the intersection of neurodiversity and retail? - From your experience, what are some of the biggest challenges neurodivergent individuals face when working in or shopping at retail stores? - How can retail environments become more inclusive and welcoming for neurodivergent customers? - What strategies or adjustments can retailers use to better support neurodivergent employees on the shop floor? - Do you think staff training on neurodiversity should be a priority for retailers? If so, what should that training include? - Have you seen any great examples of retail businesses doing neuro-inclusive practices really well? What stood out to you? - If you could give one piece of advice to retail leaders who want to make their stores more neuro-inclusive, what would it be? - Where can people connect with your work? I need to write a podcast blurb from this information for Neurodivergent mates Whether you're in retail leadership or simply curious about how businesses can be more inclusive—this episode is packed with insight, empathy, and actionable ideas. 🎙️ Tune in now and discover how retail can evolve beyond the shopfront. 👉 For anyone interested in listening to more of our podcast, visit our website: https://lnkd.in/g83Tw9wi Please be sure to subscribe, like and follow all our social media platforms. Click on our Linktree link provided below to access all of our social media platforms: https://linktr.ee/openheartedapp?fbclid=IwAR3Mk3FNMMbC4_EwZaHwzHNgugWNL4Pnm7dANcrcEMKRKXfYFN5SPGgSGcU

July 2, 2025Episode 751 hr 0 min

Student First: Designing with Purpose - Grant Sciberras

Send us Fan Mail From teaching across Sweden, Thailand, and Australia to working in human rights and foreign policy, Grant Sciberras brings a global perspective on education, equity, and innovation. In this episode, we dive deep into: ✅ How student choice and passions can shape meaningful curriculum ✅ The hidden barriers in policy and practice that hold learners back ✅ Real-world strategies for designing inclusive, student-led learning ✅ Why neurodivergent students must be central to curriculum reform ✅ And the one change Grant wants to see in the future of education Questions that will be asked during the episode Podcast Questions 1. To start us off, can you tell us a bit about your journey into curriculum design and what drew you to focus on student choice, passions, and goals? 2. You’ve explored both the constraints and the enablers in education systems. What are some of the most common ways policies or stakeholders unintentionally limit student-driven learning? 3. On the flip side, what policies or approaches have you seen that actually enable inclusive, student-centered learning? 4. How do you approach designing curriculum that gives students real freedom to pursue their interests while still meeting learning outcomes or accreditation standards? 5. Can you share an example where giving students more autonomy led to unexpected or transformative learning outcomes? 6. What are some ways educators and curriculum designers can advocate for more inclusive, student-led practices — even when the system feels rigid? 7. How can we ensure that neurodivergent students, or those with less traditional learning profiles, truly benefit from a more flexible curriculum model? 8. Looking ahead, what’s one change you’d love to see in how we design learning — and what can people listening do to help make it happen? 💡 Whether you're an educator, policymaker, or passionate about inclusive learning, this one’s packed with insight and action. #NeurodivergentMates #InclusiveEducation #CurriculumDesign #Neurodiversity #StudentVoice #EducationReform #GrantSciberras #UDL #EquityInEducation #Podcast #NeurodivergentVoices Please be sure to subscribe, like and follow all our social media platforms. Click on our Linktree link provided below to access all of our social media platforms: https://linktr.ee/openheartedapp?fbclid=IwAR3Mk3FNMMbC4_EwZaHwzHNgugWNL4Pnm7dANcrcEMKRKXfYFN5SPGgSGcU

June 16, 2025Episode 741 hr 2 min

Becoming an AuDHD Marketing Expert - Kerry Milne

Send us Fan Mail From global brands to grassroots startups, Kerry has carved out a dynamic career as a marketing strategist and founder of GAP., all while navigating life with late-diagnosed ADHD and Autism. In this episode, Kerry shares her journey of embracing neurodivergence, building a values-led business, and redefining success on her own terms. Expect raw honesty, strategic gold, and plenty of laughs as we talk anxiety, unconventional pathways, and what it really takes to thrive as a neurodivergent entrepreneur in a high-performance world. 🎧 Listen to other episodes via Neurodivergent Mates → https://neurodiversityacademy.com/neu... 🎤 Podcast Questions: Let’s start at the beginning – can you tell us about your career journey and how GAP. came to be? What was it like receiving a late diagnosis of ADHD and ASD? How did that change how you saw your past experiences? How has being neurodivergent shaped the way you approach strategy, creativity, and marketing? You’ve worked with some major players like GE, Vodafone, and Plico — how did those environments support or challenge your neurodivergent brain? You talk openly about anxiety and academic setbacks. How have those experiences influenced your leadership style? What advice do you have for neurodivergent young people or aspiring entrepreneurs who feel like they don’t fit the traditional mould? You call yourself a “growth junkie” — what does growth look like to you now, both personally and professionally? Finally, if you could give one piece of advice to your younger self, what would it be? Please be sure to subscribe, like and follow all our social media platforms. Click on our Linktree link provided below to access all of our social media platforms: https://linktr.ee/openheartedapp?fbclid=IwAR3Mk3FNMMbC4_EwZaHwzHNgugWNL4Pnm7dANcrcEMKRKXfYFN5SPGgSGcU