In this episode of Love Conquers, Kaz and Matt pull no punches as they dive into the essential—yet often overlooked—topic of advocacy and self-advocacy within the neurodiverse community, especially in the context of relationships.

What does it really mean to advocate for yourself when your brain is wired differently? How do you set boundaries, express needs, or ask for accommodations in a world—and sometimes a relationship—that doesn’t always “get it”? With humor, heart, and hard-earned wisdom, Matt and Kaz unpack the dynamics of neurodivergent communication, miscommunication, and the power of having your voice heard.

This episode isn’t just a conversation—it’s a blueprint. It explores the roles that both partners play in building a relationship rooted in understanding, support, and mutual respect. Whether you're neurodivergent, in a relationship with someone who is, or simply looking to level up your empathy game, this one’s for you.

In Episode 76 of Love Conquers, hosts Kaz and Matt Page engage in a heartfelt conversation with esteemed clinical psychologist and personal friend, Nicole (Nic) Ennis-Oakes. As the founder of the Centre for Neurodiversity, established in 2019, Nic brings a wealth of experience in supporting neurodivergent individuals—including those with autism, ADHD, and related conditions—in leading fulfilling lives within a predominantly neurotypical society.

Since its inception, the Centre has been dedicated to providing personalised guidance that assists neurodivergent individuals and their families in adapting to their specific life circumstances or initiating beneficial changes. The Centre's neurodiversity-affirming practices focus on celebrating neurological diversity as natural variations, rather than labeling neurodivergent traits as disorders or deficits.

In this episode, Nic shares insights into the Centre's holistic approach, which includes diagnosis, intervention, and skill optimisation for children, adolescents, and adults with higher-functioning autism spectrum conditions. The discussion also delves into the Centre's efforts in offering bespoke professional training programs for paediatricians, psychiatrists, educators, and allied health professionals, enhancing their ability to support neurodivergent individuals effectively.

Listeners will gain a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by neurodivergent individuals and the importance of creating inclusive environments that recognise and celebrate neurological diversity.

In this episode of Love Conquers, we dive deep into the wonderfully weird world of hyperfocus and special interests—those intense passions that can either bond couples like superglue or drive them quietly insane. Joining us is Nicole Ennis-Oakes, neurodiversity whisperer and principal psychologist at the Centre for Neurodiversity, who helps us unravel why your partner’s obsession with vintage trains or obscure anime might be more than just a quirk.

We’ll explore how these deep interests function for neurodivergent individuals, the challenges and joys they bring into relationships, and how to navigate those “I love you but if you mention that one topic again I swear…” moments. Whether you're the hyperfixator or the bemused partner, this episode offers real strategies, heartfelt stories, and the occasional laugh to help couples build connection through curiosity—not just compatibility.

In this raw and relatable episode of Love Conquers, Kaz and Matt pull back the curtain on the beautifully chaotic reality of parenting as a neurodiverse couple. With five daughters, two very different brains, and more than a few calendar mishaps, they're no strangers to the wild rollercoaster that is neurodivergent family life.

From ADHD-fueled forgetfulness ("Wait... it’s our turn to bring snacks?!") to the sensory overload of school events that feel more like mini music festivals, Kaz and Matt share the honest, unfiltered moments that make up their day-to-day. But it’s not all chaos—there’s also laughter, growth, and unexpected wins.

They dive into how their differences sometimes collide—but more often, complement each other. Kaz leans into structure and routine to keep things steady, while Matt brings in last-minute brilliance and creative problem-solving that has saved the day more than once. Together, they show that parenting with neurodivergence isn’t about doing it perfectly—it’s about doing it authentically.

This episode is for every parent doing their best with a brain that doesn’t always cooperate. Whether you're winning the parenting game or hiding in the laundry room for five quiet minutes, this one’s for you.

🧠 Topics Include:

• Executive dysfunction and the school schedule

• Sensory overload and overstimulation in parenting

• Tag-teaming and understanding your limits

• Celebrating small wins in the middle of the mess

• Teaching kids about neurodiversity with love and honesty

👂 Listen If:

• You’re parenting with a neurodivergent brain (or co-parenting with one)

• You’ve ever cried in your car while holding a forgotten permission slip

• You want practical tools and emotional validation

• You believe love, honesty, and humor are parenting superpowers

In this episode of Love Conquers, Kaz and Matt dive deep into one of the trickiest, yet most important, skills in any relationship: handling conflict—especially when neurodiversity is part of the dynamic.

When one or both partners are neurodivergent, misunderstandings can pop up faster than you can say "what did you mean by that?" Different processing speeds, communication styles, emotional regulation challenges, and sensory overload can turn a simple disagreement into a full-blown storm if left unchecked.

Kaz and Matt share their own experiences from nearly 30 years together, pulling back the curtain on how autism, ADHD, anxiety, and other neurodiverse traits can impact conflict—and, more importantly, how they learned to navigate it without burning everything to the ground.

From the importance of cool-down periods and clarity over assumption, to building scripts and systems that keep emotions from running wild, this episode is packed with practical tools, honest reflections, and a whole lot of “we learned the hard way” wisdom.

Whether you’re neurodivergent yourself, love someone who is, or just want better strategies for handling conflict with more grace (and less accidental emotional warfare), this conversation offers hope, humor, and hard-won lessons.

Topics Include:

• Why standard conflict advice doesn’t always fit neurodiverse couples

• Emotional regulation: how to recognize the "flood zone" before it hits

• Practical scripts and boundaries that actually work

• Repairing after ruptures (because perfection isn't the goal—connection is)

• How fighting fair can actually deepen trust and intimacy

Conflict is inevitable. Rupture is inevitable. But so is repair—when you have the tools, the compassion, and the commitment to choose each other over and over again.

Tune in for a raw, real, and (as always) slightly chaotic conversation about fighting with love, and loving through the fight.

In this episode of Love Conquers, Kaz and Matt dive deep into the beautiful, messy world of navigating social events, family gatherings, and friendship dynamics—when one or both partners are neurodivergent.

From crowded parties that feel like sensory warzones to those awkward "Why aren't you more social?" moments, they unpack how differing social needs and expectations can collide in external environments. Kaz opens up about how overstimulation, small talk, and group dynamics can feel overwhelming, while Matt shares his perspective on learning to adapt without sacrificing his own needs.

Together, they explore how communication, boundaries, and tag-team strategies have helped them show up authentically without burning out—or burning bridges.

Whether you're the life of the party or the one hiding in the laundry with the cat (no judgment), this episode is a must-listen for anyone navigating relationships where social batteries drain at very different speeds.

• Topics Include: Recognising and honouring individual social limits
• Tag-teaming and pre-planning for events Managing judgment from others (and ourselves)
• Advocating for your needs without guilt
• Learning when to stay, when to go, and when to say "Nope."

Love looks different for everyone. But when you understand each other's wiring, even the most chaotic environments can become opportunities for deeper connection. the image should conform to the previous generated images for love conquers podcast 

In this episode of Love Conquers, hosts Kaz and Matt Page take a deep dive into one of the most challenging and misunderstood relationship hurdles: executive dysfunction—and how to navigate it together as a team.

Executive dysfunction, common in neurodivergent individuals (especially those with ADHD, autism, or anxiety), can make everyday tasks like planning, organizing, initiating, or completing responsibilities feel overwhelming or even impossible. But when one partner struggles, it affects both—and that’s where teamwork becomes essential.

Kaz and Matt open up about their own lived experiences with executive dysfunction in their relationship, sharing how they’ve learned to shift from blame and frustration to collaboration, empathy, and practical strategies that truly work.

In this episode, they explore:
🧠 What executive dysfunction really looks like in day-to-day life
🤝 How to replace judgment with compassion and shared responsibility
📋 Systems, tools, and routines that actually help get things done
💬 Communication techniques that reduce conflict and increase connection
💛 Why emotional support is just as important as task support

Whether you're the partner who forgets the to-do list or the one picking up the slack, this episode is a powerful reminder that you don’t have to do it all alone—and when love meets teamwork, even the most overwhelming challenges become manageable.

🎧 Tune in to discover how supporting each other through executive dysfunction can create more balance, connection, and trust in your relationship.

In this heart-opening episode of Love Conquers, hosts Kaz and Matt Page dive into the powerful intersection of love languages and neurodiversity—exploring how our unique neurological wiring shapes the way we give and receive love.

For many couples, understanding love languages can be a game-changer. But when neurodivergent traits like autism, ADHD, or sensory sensitivities come into the picture, traditional expressions of affection may not always land the way we expect. What feels like love to one partner might feel overwhelming—or even go unnoticed—by the other.

Kaz and Matt bring honesty, empathy, and lived experience to the mic, unpacking the ways neurodiverse individuals often express connection differently. From needing space to craving routine, from avoiding physical touch to embracing deep acts of service, this episode reveals how affection doesn’t have to look “typical” to be meaningful.

Together, they discuss: 💙 How neurodivergent traits influence love languages 🧠 Rethinking affection through a neurodiversity-affirming lens 🗣️ Communication tools that build understanding instead of conflict 🌱 The importance of curiosity, patience, and flexibility in connection.

This episode is a celebration of love expressed in all its forms—a reminder that the language of love isn’t one-size-fits-all.

🎧 Tune in to discover how embracing your differences can lead to deeper connection, stronger partnership, and more compassionate love.

In this thoughtful episode of Love Conquers, hosts Kaz and Matt Page explore the often-overlooked topic of sensory needs and overloads in relationships—particularly when neurodiversity is in the mix.

From the buzz of fluorescent lights to the texture of a couch or the hum of everyday noise, our environments can be filled with sensory triggers that feel overwhelming to one partner and barely noticeable to the other. For couples navigating different sensory sensitivities, especially in neurodiverse relationships, creating a safe and balanced home environment is key to connection, comfort, and mutual respect.

Kaz and Matt share real-life experiences and practical tools for:
✅ Understanding individual sensory profiles
✅ Identifying common triggers that lead to overload
✅ Creating calm zones and sensory retreats within shared spaces
✅ Communicating needs without judgment or shame
✅ Designing a home that feels safe, soothing, and supportive for everyone

Whether you’re navigating autism, ADHD, trauma, or just sensory mismatches with your partner, this episode offers grounded, compassionate advice for building a home where everyone can breathe a little easier.

💙 Because love isn’t just about how we show up for each other—it’s about the spaces we build to support one another.

Communication is the foundation of every relationship—but when neurodiversity is part of the equation, it can feel like you and your partner are speaking entirely different languages. In this episode of Love Conquers, hosts Kaz and Matt Page dive deep into the unique ways neurodiverse individuals express themselves, process information, and connect with their loved ones.

For some, words flow easily, while for others, emotions are better expressed through actions, gestures, or even silence. One partner might crave deep, direct conversations, while the other may need time to process before responding. Differences in verbal vs. nonverbal communication, social cues, and emotional expression can create challenges—but they can also be the key to building a richer, more meaningful connection.

Through personal stories and expert insights, this episode unpacks the most common communication struggles in neurodiverse relationships—misunderstandings, overstimulation, differences in conversational pacing—and offers practical strategies for bridging the gap.

How do you express love when words feel overwhelming? How do you ensure both partners feel heard and understood? Kaz and Matt explore real-world techniques like creating communication “safe zones,” using nonverbal cues, and setting clear expectations to help neurodiverse couples navigate conversations with patience and understanding.

Because at the end of the day, love isn’t about saying the perfect thing—it’s about learning to hear each other in a way that truly resonates.

Each episode unpacks a relationships issue or life lesson that Matt & Kaz have had to learn.

Content warning: Love Conquers is a podcast for adults that deals with confronting themes of all kinds including mental health, suicide and trauma.

Love Conquers is not a licensed mental health service and is not a substitute for professional mental health advice, treatment or assessment.

If you are struggling, don’t go it alone - please see a healthcare professional.

If you live in Australia, please call Lifeline on 13 11 14 or go to lifeline.org.au.

If you live outside of Australia, please search for your local crisis line and find support.

This podcast is hosted by Matt and Kaz Page

For more information visit: loveconquersthepodcast.com