Neurodivergent Mates

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 Co...

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, a...

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...

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, particular...

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 stude...

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 pa...

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...

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 t...

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...

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...

Send us Fan Mail New Episode – Neurodivergent Mates Mates Breaking the Mould: Without Traditional Education with special guest Gemma McLean In this episode, I’m joined by the brilliant Gemma McLean — a neurodivergent powerhouse who’s built a successful and fulfilling life by stepping outside the boundaries of traditional education. Gemma shares her journey of realising that school wasn’t the right...

Send us Fan Mail 🎧 Back and Ready to Rock n Roll – Neurodivergent Mates Returns! We’re back, mates! After a bit of a break, I’m jumping on the mic solo to share what’s been going on behind the scenes. In this short and honest catch-up, I’ll be talking about why the podcast hit pause — from the financial realities of running a social impact to the mental load that comes with building something mea...

Send us Fan Mail 🚀 AI and the Neurodivergent Brain: A Game-Changer for Focus and Productivity 🎙️ How is AI transforming the way neurodivergent individuals navigate work, communication, and daily life? In the latest episode of Neurodivergent Mates, I sit down with Craig Smith to dive into the power of AI as a tool for neuro-inclusion. From executive functioning support to productivity hacks, we ex...

Send us Fan Mail On this episode of Neurodivergent Mates, I’m excited to sit down with Vicky Little, Chief Operating Officer at Specialisterne Australia! With over 17 years of experience in autism and neurodivergent employment across Australia and the UK, Vicky is a passionate disability trainer and advocate who’s transforming how organisations engage with neurodivergent talent. From developing au...

Send us Fan Mail Neurodivergent Mates presents: "Stronger Together: The Power and Purpose of Building a Community" 🌟 In this episode, we explore how building meaningful connections can transform your personal and professional life—especially as a neurodivergent individual. 💡 From fostering resilience to creating inclusive spaces, community is the key to growth and success. 🔥 Here’s wh...

Send us Fan Mail 🎙️ Next on Neurodivergent Mates: The Importance of Neurodivergent Teachers with Katie Fleet 🎙️   In this episode, we’re joined by Katie Fleet, a passionate educator and advocate for neurodivergent teachers. We’ll dive into her journey as a neurodivergent teacher, exploring the challenges, strengths, and impact that neurodivergent educators bring to the classroom.   Katie will shar...

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of Neurodivergent Mates, we’re joined by Aaron Saint-James to explore the critical differences between traditional accommodations and Universal Design for Learning (UDL). Aaron shares his journey and professional insights, highlighting why a proactive approach to inclusion in higher education is essential. Questions: Tell us a bit about yourself Tell us a bit about...

Send us Fan Mail On this episode of Neurodivergent Mates, we explore the intersection of menopause and neurodivergence with two incredible guests, Georgie Drury and Dr. Nicole Avard. This enlightening discussion dives deep into how menopause uniquely impacts neurodivergent individuals and practical strategies for navigating this life stage. Topics we’ll cover include: Meet our guests: Georgie Drur...

Send us Fan Mail On this 15-minute chat on Neurodivergent Mates, I’ll be diving into "The Importance of Building a Network as a Neurodivergent Professional" and exploring why it’s such a game-changer. Networking has not only opened doors in my career but also allowed me to connect with mentors, advocates, and allies who truly understand and support my journey. I’ll share how authenticity...

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of Neurodivergent Mates, we dive into the world of Neuro-inclusive People Leadership with our special guest, Kate Hardiman. Join us as Kate shares her journey, the work she’s passionate about, and her insights on the value of inclusive leadership. Tune in to discover actionable strategies and where you can connect with Kate to learn more about her work. Questions T...

Send us Fan Mail Join us on Neurodivergent Mates as we welcome Dr. Matt Zakreski, a psychologist specializing in neurodiversity, to explore the unique world of twice-exceptional (2e) individuals. Ever wondered what it means to be “twice-exceptional”? Dr. Matt breaks down how someone can be both gifted and face challenges, the impact of 2e on self-esteem, and the unique hurdles 2e students encounte...

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of Neurodivergent Mates, we sit down with Nikki Searby to explore the critical intersection of psychological safety and neurodiversity in the workplace. Nikki shares valuable insights on how creating a safe, inclusive environment can empower neurodivergent employees to thrive.  For those interested in connecting with Nikki Searby and following her journey, stay tun...

Send us Fan Mail On the next episode of Neurodivergent Mates, I’ll be joined by Jessica McGann to discuss her experiences growing up with learning difficulties and ADHD. We’ll dive into her personal journey, including what it was like struggling in school, the impact of those challenges, and her path to an ADHD diagnosis. Jessica will also share her experiences with medication and offer advice for...

Send us Fan Mail Join us in this episode of Neurodivergent Mates as we chat with Anthony Tucker (Tuck), a close friend and advocate for neurodivergent individuals. We’ll explore the challenges of discovering healthy coping strategies, the impact of neurodivergence on personal growth, and how identity issues can shape recovery from substance use. Tuck shares practical tips for building routines tha...

Send us Fan Mail Ever wondered how to stay afloat when the entrepreneurial waters get choppy, especially as a neurodivergent entrepreneur? Join me, Will Wheeler, as I unveil a personal story packed with resilience and perseverance. Discover how the journey of entrepreneurship isn't just about building a business, but about nurturing a mindset that refuses to give up, even when the odds are st...