Think Different, Teach Better with Charlotte and Carla

In this short, practical episode, Charlotte and Carla unpack how to approach those early‑year parent–teacher interviews with confidence, curiosity, and calm. They explore how to build rapport quickly, honour neurodivergent learners and their families, navigate cultural and linguistic differences, and structure conversations so everyone feels supported — including you. If you want a bite‑sized rese...

In this episode of Think Different, Teach Better , we move from understanding anxiety to action. We explore practical, evidence-informed strategies teachers can use every day to support anxious students — without lowering expectations or increasing dependence. We discuss: • Predictability, routines and pre-correction • Co-regulation and emotional safety • Dr Claire Hayes’ Inverted Triangle • Reduc...

The start of a new school year, or even returning after a break, can spark significant anxiety for many students. In this episode, Charlotte and Carla unpack what anxiety really is, why transitions trigger it, and how it presents in classrooms through behaviours like avoidance, perfectionism, shutdown, and emotional outbursts. They also share simple, in‑the‑moment strategies teachers can use to su...

In Part 2 of Seb’s interview, we go deeper into what it’s really like to live with OCD and ADHD at the same time — not just as diagnoses, but as an ongoing internal tug-of-war. Seb describes the clash between a brain that craves certainty, safety, and “doing things the right way,” and another that seeks movement, stimulation, and flexibility. Together, they create exhaustion, inconsistency, and be...

In this episode of Think Different, Teach Better , Seb shares his lived experience of navigating school with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) — with a particular focus on how OCD is often misunderstood in educational settings . Diagnosed with OCD in Year 6 and later with ADHD in Year 9, Seb reflects on what school felt like before and after di...

In Part Two of our conversation with Finn, we explore ADHD both inside and outside the classroom. Finn reflects on how school experiences shaped his confidence, friendships, and everyday life — and how strategies that worked at school continue to make a difference beyond it. We discuss what inclusive classrooms really look like, and how teachers can create environments where neurodivergent student...

In this episode of Think Different, Teach Better , we sit down with Finn, a student who’s navigated school with ADHD from primary years through to VCE. We talk about what ADHD really looks like in the classroom, how it impacts learning and focus, and the strategies and supports that made the biggest difference for him. Finn’s reflections remind us why understanding neurodiversity matters — and how...

In this powerful second part of our conversation with Ellie , diagnosed as an adult with autism and ADHD , we explore the hidden emotional cost of masking, the teachers who made a difference, and what schools can do better for neurodivergent students. Ellie shares her experiences of trying to fit in, what she wishes teachers had understood, and how we can design classrooms that feel safer and more...

Think Different, Teach Better is back with Season 2! In this episode, Charlotte and Carla speak with Ellie, who was diagnosed in adulthood with both autism and ADHD after navigating her entire schooling without knowing why things felt different for her. Ellie reflects on her primary and secondary school years, the challenges of masking, sensory and social experiences, and the teachers who made a d...

In this season wrap-up, we revisit the key insights from our discussions on ADHD, Autism, Anxiety, OCD, PDA, Conduct Disorder, Trauma, and more. This episode ties it all together—clarifying neurodiversity vs. neurodivergence, exploring classroom strategies, and sharing resources to help every student thrive. Whether you’ve been with us from the start or are tuning in for the first time, this episo...

Episode 10 of Think Different, Teach Better explores two very different behavioural profiles: Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) and Conduct Disorder. We unpack what each looks like, the underlying drivers, and why understanding the difference is essential for effective support. From reducing anxiety and offering choice, to building structure and using restorative practices, this episode gives ed...

In this episode of  Think Different, Teach Better , Charlotte and Carla dive into the intersection of  trauma-informed teaching  and  Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) . We explore: How trauma impacts learning, behaviour, and classroom dynamics Strengths-based strategies that build safety, trust, and engagement Understanding ODD through a lens of autonomy, anxiety, and communication Practical, e...

Tourette Syndrome, tic disorders, and trichotillomania are often misunderstood in school settings—mistaken for disruptions, attention-seeking, or behavioural issues. In this episode, we uncover what these conditions really are: neurological, often invisible, and deeply affecting for students . We explore: The difference between Tourette Syndrome, Provisional Tic Disorder, and Persistent Tic Disord...

OCD and OCPD are often confused—but they’re fundamentally different. In this episode, we break down the psychological and behavioural distinctions between obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and obsessive-compulsive personality disorder (OCPD), and why understanding these differences is crucial in the classroom. Charlotte and Carla explore how each can affect student behaviour, engagement, and wel...

In this episode of Think Different, Teach Better , we unpack three common yet often misunderstood learning challenges: dysgraphia, dyscalculia, and math anxiety. You'll learn how to identify signs in the classroom, understand how these difficulties differ, and implement evidence-based strategies to support students. We also discuss the role of self-efficacy and how teacher mindset can influenc...

In this episode, we explore how anxiety shows up in student behaviour—and what we, as educators, can do to help. From understanding the different types of anxiety disorders to implementing practical, evidence-based strategies, Charlotte and Carla guide you through what it means to create a calm, responsive, and supportive classroom environment. Whether it’s social anxiety, GAD, OCD, or selective m...

Understanding and Supporting Students with Dyslexia Dyslexia is the most common form of neurodivergence, yet many educators feel unsure about how to support it. In this episode, we explore what dyslexia really is, how it affects learning, and how teachers can make a meaningful difference through early intervention and inclusive strategies. We also reflect on the emotional impact of dyslexia and th...

In this episode, we unpack common traits of autism spectrum disorder and how they show up in learning environments. We explore strategies for helping students navigate routines, social interactions, sensory needs, and academic challenges. We reflect on how educators can create classrooms where every student feels seen, supported, and safe. #AutismInEducation #Neurodiversity #InclusiveClassrooms#Th...

In this episode, we dive into one of the most recognised neurodivergent profiles in education: ADHD (Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder) . We unpack what ADHD really is, debunk common myths, and explore the unique challenges students face. Most importantly, we share practical, compassionate strategies for teachers to support neurodivergent learners in inclusive classrooms. From classroom ada...

Welcome to the episode 1. of Think Different, Teach Better — a podcast that challenges the status quo in education. In this episode, we unpack the difference between neurodiversity and neurodivergence , explore why this distinction matters in the classroom, and share practical strategies to better support all learners. Whether you're an educator, leader, or parent, this is your starting point for...

An introduction to Think Different, Teach Better as well as to Charlotte and Carla!

A podcast for teachers exploring #Neurodiversity, #Neurodivergence, #Inclusion, and #ClassroomStrategies. Hosted by Charlotte & Carla — real talk, real tips, real impact. #ThinkDifferentTeachBetter