Neurodivergent Mates
“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.”
Episodes
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 challen...
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. Wit...
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 me...
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 background...
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 act...
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 t...
🎙️ 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, e...
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...
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...
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,...
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 fit, ...
🎧 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 meaningful.
But it’s no...
🚀 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 explore:
🔹 How n...
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 autism-specific transition prog...
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 what we’ll cover:
...
🎙️ 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 share insights on how ...
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 your w...
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 Drury and Dr. N...
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 plays a critical role in building mea...
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
- Tell us a bit abo...
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