The Village Lantern Podcast

Chris Varney is the founder and CEO of the first-of-its-kind I CAN Network. Chris's vision of a 'Rethink on Autism' is a shift from a deficits-focussed approach to a strengths-based one, and one that has touched and benefitted the lives of thousands of Autistics. In this episode we hear about how Chris made his dream of changing lives come true.

Deirdre started as a primary school teacher, and was driven to become a psychologist after seeing kids in the classroom struggling, and who were not receiving the support they needed. Deirdre has been a fully registered child psychologist (AHPRA) for over 20 years and with her interest in Autism Spectrum Disorder. We talk to Deirdre about kids, the education system, families, and the gifts and joy...

Tal Spinrad is a career Jewish educator and advocate for change with over three decades of experience working within all aspects of the Jewish community. Combining the passion of Ezekiel, with the humour of Mel Brooks, Tal uses both modern and traditional narratives to engage and reveal insights. In this episode, Tal shares his personal experiences of growing up with autism, as well as parenting t...

How is ASD diagnosed in the medical world and how does it impact individuals?

Chris Varney is the founder and CEO of the first-of-its-kind I CAN Network. Chris has a mind-blowing CV, including graduating law, being recognised as the Australian Youth Representative to the UN, the World Vision Australia's Manager of Youth in 2009, and the recipient of the 2017 Supreme Court of Victoria's Best Achievement in Human Rights Award. Chris also serves as National Patron of the Austr...

Anna and Jordan are a full generation apart (they think...). In this intro episode, they share their story of how they came together to bring light and love to the community living with hidden challenges. They chat about how they met, how they landed in this community, and what they want to achieve with this podcast and their lives!

The Hawthorn Football has social inclusion as a key pillar of their community strategy. CEO Justin Reeves and General Manager of Foundation and Community, Kerrie Brewer join us to talk about their role as community leaders, and the responsibility that comes with having the influence over a significant proponent of Victoria and broader Australia, and their admirable and innovative social inclusion...