In this episode, we slow things right down and explore something many children (and adults) need long before worksheets, targets, or timetables: emotional safety.
We begin by unpacking what emotional wellbeing really means (1:46) and why a calm, regulated child is the one who can actually learn. From there, we step into the heart of the topic - emotional safety (2:33): how it feels, why it matters, and the quiet ways it shapes behaviour.
You’ll hear how to spot patterns that often go unnoticed (3:03), and why confidence and learning are completely intertwined (3:10). I introduce the “Learn First” idea (4:04) and share an example of a learner whose whole approach shifted once safety became first (4:40).
For parents, carers, teachers, you’ll find simple, practical tools to create emotional safety without overwhelm (5:38), and later in the episode (8:07) we explore specific strategies you can use straight away.
We finish with a gentle wrap-up (10:26), reminding you that this work isn’t about perfection. It’s about connection, confidence, and meeting each learner where they are.
If you support a neurodivergent young person, or you’re trying to honour your own emotional needs, this episode is for you. 💛

In this episode, I reflect on my learning journey into Product–Market Fit: what it means, why it matters, and how it connects deeply to empathy, accessibility, and sustainable growth.This isn’t business jargon; it’s a human story. I explore how to build services and systems that actually fit the people they’re for, where value is measured in connection, not conversion.✨ Topics covered:

• What Product–Market Fit really means
• Lessons from the classroom and business world
• The role of empathy and accessibility in entrepreneurship
• How to know when your work truly “fits”
• Why sustainable success starts with listening

🎙️ Listen if you’re an educator, entrepreneur, or creative trying to align your purpose, energy, and audience.#ProductMarketFit #EntrepreneurLife #InclusiveBusiness #NeurodivergentEntrepreneur #KindlingMinds #AccessibilityMatters

In this heartfelt episode of Neurodiverse Voices, I open up about the power of finding your people; your tribe, and what happens when something truly special comes to an end. 💜After six transformative weeks in a women’s entrepreneurship programme, I reflect on how building connections, embracing vulnerability, and surrounding yourself with like-minded people can shape both personal growth and business success.You’ll hear honest thoughts on belonging, community, and the bittersweet feeling of saying goodbye to something that changed you, plus how these lessons connect to Kindling Minds’ mission of fostering confidence, kindness, and connection in education and beyond.✨ Whether you’re a parent, educator, or fellow neurodivergent professional, this episode will remind you that you are not alone. Growth happens when we lift each other up, and sometimes, the best thing we can do is let others light the spark within us.💡 Topics Covered:

• The emotional journey of finding your tribe
• Why community is essential for neurodivergent individuals
• Lessons from the SOSE Women Entrepreneurs course
• How connection fuels confidence and creativity
• Life after something special ends — and how to keep growing

👉 Don’t forget to like, follow, and share to help Kindling Minds reach more families, educators, and neurodivergent individuals who need to hear they belong too.

Living with dyslexia has shaped every part of my life, not just as a learner, but as a teacher and now the founder of Kindling Minds. In this episode, I explore what dyslexia really looks like day-to-day, why it’s more than just “struggling to read and spell,” and how it’s given me strengths I wouldn’t change for the world.
From classroom experiences to running a business, I share how dyslexia has made me a more compassionate educator, and why I believe being different is the best way to be. With Dyslexia Awareness Week Scotland underway, this episode is a reminder that dyslexia is not a limitation, it’s a different way of thinking.
Follow for more episodes of Neurodiverse Voices | A Kindling Spark, where we celebrate the power of learning differently.

In this episode of Neurodiverse Voices, I (Kara) open up about what life is really like living with both dyslexia and autism. From the challenges of school and education, to navigating friendships, relationships, and the workplace, I share an honest and personal look into the ups and downs of being neurodivergent.You’ll hear not only about the obstacles but also the strengths, creativity, and unique perspectives that come with thinking differently. This episode is all about breaking stigma, highlighting resilience, and celebrating the neurodivergent experience.✨ Whether you’re neurodivergent yourself, a parent, or an educator, this conversation will help you see the power in difference; because every mind deserves to shine.✨
☟GET YOUR FREE RESOURCES HERE☟❀ Parent's Guide: 5 ways to support a neurodivergent learner at homehttps://www.kindlingminds.co.uk/shop-kindling-minds/p/freebie-parents-guide-5-ways-to-support-a-neurodivergent-learner-at-home❀ Making sense of meltdownshttps://www.kindlingminds.co.uk/shop-kindling-minds/p/making-sense-of-meltdowns-a-free-guide-for-parents-educators🎯CHECK THESE OUT🎯☞ Book 1:1 sessions here:https://www.kindlingminds.co.uk/services/booking☞ Living a Neurodiverse Life | BLOG: https://www.kindlingminds.co.uk/kindling-minds-blog☞ Kindling Minds Most FAQ's:https://www.kindlingminds.co.uk/faqs✨MORE FROM KINDLING MINDS✨☞ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kindling.minds/☞ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@kindling.minds☞ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61578265521724 ☞ Website: www.kindlingminds.co.uk☞ Email: [email protected]

From Struggles to Strengths: The Story Behind Kindling MindsIn this very first episode of Neurodiverse Voices | A Kindling Spark, Kara, a primary teacher, proudly dyslexic, autistic, and neurospicy, shares her personal journey from feeling overlooked in school to creating Kindling Minds, a safe and supportive space for neurodivergent learners.You’ll hear the story of why Kindling Minds was founded, the services it offers, and how it’s making learning feel kind, inclusive, and confidence-building for children, families, and educators. This episode sets the stage for a podcast dedicated to debunking stigma, celebrating strengths, and empowering neurodiverse voices everywhere.Because every mind deserves to shine, not in spite of differences, but because of them.

🎙️ Neurodiverse Voices | A Kindling SparkHosted by Kara, a neurodivergent teacher with lived experience of dyslexia and autism, this podcast celebrates the strengths, challenges, and stories of the neurodiverse community.Each episode brings practical tips, inspiring stories, and honest conversations about ADHD, autism, dyslexia, and inclusive education. From confidence-building strategies for children to support for parents and teachers, you’ll discover how every mind can thrive, not in spite of differences, but because of them.Perfect for families, educators, and neurodivergent learners across Scotland, the UK, and beyond. 🌈💛