Hi everyone,

This week’s Wine with Wita is one of the most important conversations I’ve ever had on the podcast.

I had the absolute honour of speaking with Dr. Robert Melillo, world-renowned expert in childhood neurological disorders, founder of the Brain Balance Centers, creator of the Melillo Method, and author of the groundbreaking book Disconnected Kids.

With over 1 million followers online and 30+ years of experience, Dr. Melillo has helped change the lives of thousands of families across the world, and now, he’s sharing his wisdom with us.

In this powerful episode, we explore: 

✅ What’s really going on in your child’s brain

✅ Why early signs and milestones matter more than you’re told 

✅How imbalances in brain development contribute to autism, ADHD, and speech delays 

✅And the hope that comes from understanding the root cause, not just managing symptomsWe also talk about the importance of asking why, the need for a true multidisciplinary approach, and what it means to help a child become the optimal version of themselves, whatever that looks like.

This is a conversation for every parent, educator, and health professional who wants more than a label, and believes that real change is possible. 

 Explore his books and training:drrobertmelillo.com 

Follow Dr. Melillo on Instagram:@drrobertmelillo

I’m so proud to bring this episode to the Wine with Wita community.

Let me know what you think, I’d love to hear how it lands for you.

Lots of love,

Rita

P.S.: Follow me onInstagram for more tips, insights and updates.

This episode of Wine with Wita is brought to you by Nundies- soft, sensory-friendly absorbent pants for kids who need a little extra support with toileting.

As a speechie and a mum, I know how helpful they can be for delayed toilet training or sensory needs.

They're gentle, breathable, NDIS-covered, and make everyday life that bit easier. Get 30% off your first order with the code WITA30 at ⁠⁠ConfidenceClub.com.au⁠⁠.

Disclaimer: the purpose of this podcast is to provide information. You must not rely on the information on this podcast as an alternative to speech and language therapy. You must always consult with a Speech Pathologist, GP and/or paediatrician if you have any concerns about your child's communication and/development.

Hi everyone,

This week on Wine with Wita, I’m joined by Anna, mother to3-year-old Hugo, who was diagnosed with spastic quadriplegia cerebral palsy.

Anna shares how her world shifted in an instant when shereceived an email saying her son likely had a disability.

Her pregnancy was smooth, her delivery uneventful, and yethere she was, trying to process a diagnosis while still recovering from birth.

In this episode, we talk about:

✔️ The shock and grief that come with a CP diagnosis

✔️ The mental load of managing intense therapy schedules

✔️ How NDIS left her feeling unsupported

✔️ Why putting yourself first is not selfish, it’s survival

✔️ And how little Hugo has taught her the true meaning of resilience

Anna speaks with honesty, strength and grace, and I know her words will help other families feel seen.

Lots of love,

Rita

P.S.: Follow me on Instagram for more tips, insights and updates.

And if you’d like to follow Hugo’s journey, you can findAnna at @hugos.journey

This episode was proudly sponsored Tambakis Physiotherapy, because parents deserve support too. When you're raising a child with physical or developmental challenges having the right people around you makes all the difference.

Tambakis offers expert, family centred physiotherapy and exercise physiology in Sydney's South-West, helping you feel less alone and more supported on the journey. Learn more at tambakisphysiotherapy.com.au

Disclaimer: the purpose of this podcast is to provide information. You must not rely on the information on this podcast as an alternative to speech and language therapy. You must always consult with a Speech Pathologist, GP and/or paediatrician if you have any concerns about your child's communication and/development.

Hi everyone,

In this week’s episode of Wine with Wita, I’m joined by theincredible Porscia Lam, Melbourne-based mum, lawyer, and author of The Unlocking: An Autism Story.

Porscia’s son Harry was diagnosed with autism during Melbourne’s gruelling lockdowns. What followed was a journey filled with confusion, heartbreak, and profound learning , not just about autism, but about herself, her culture, and what it really means to advocate for your child.

In this heartfelt conversation, Porscia shares:

💗 How her son’s anxiety and demand avoidance shaped every part of their day

💗 The moment she gave up her corporate career to become his full-time carer

💗 Why she chose to try ABA therapy, despite the controversy

💗 What society often gets wrong about therapy, autism, and ‘normal’ development

💗 How her cultural upbringing complicated the process of seeking a diagnosis

💗 Why she wrote her book to help other parents feel less alone

And yes, we talk about the Happy Hulk, Harry’s alter ego that made everything from nappies to therapy possible.

You’ll laugh, cry, and come away with a deeper appreciation for the emotional labour that often sits behind early intervention.

Porscia’s story is one of love, resilience, and redefining success, and it’s one every parent, carer, and clinician needs to hear.

🔗 Buy her book:

The Unlocking: A Memoir ofPathological Demand Avoidance

📚 More about Porscia:

www.porscialam.com

📸 Follow her on Instagram:

@porscia.lam

Lots of love,

Rita

P.S.: Follow me on

Instagram

for more tips, insights and updates.

This episode of Wine with Wita is brought to you by Nundies- soft, sensory-friendly absorbent pants for kids who need a little extra support with toileting.

As a speechie and a mum, I know how helpful they can be for delayed toilet training or sensory needs.

They're gentle, breathable, NDIS-covered, and make everyday life that bit easier. Get 30% off your first order with the code WITA30 at ⁠ConfidenceClub.com.au⁠.

Disclaimer: the purpose of this podcast is to provide information. You must not rely on the information on this podcast as an alternative to speech and language therapy. You must always consult with a Speech Pathologist, GP and/or paediatrician if you have any concerns about your child's communication and/development

Hi everyone,

This week on Wine with Wita, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Dr Carlo Rinaudo, a chiropractor and clinical neuroscientist whose work in paediatric neurodevelopment is expanding how we think about brain and body connection in children.

Dr Carlo brings a unique perspective to developmental care,  blending clinical neuroscience with hands-on support for children and families.

 In this episode, we dive into:

💭 What chiropractic looks like in a paediatric, neurodevelopmental setting

💭 The fascinating role of the vagus nerve in gut, brain, and emotional health.
💭 How neuroplasticity supports developmental change and growth.
💭 What the Melillo Method is - and why so many families are exploring it.

Whether you’re a parent looking for new ways to support your child, or a professional open to learning beyond your usual scope, this episode is a beautiful invitation into curiosity, connection, and collaboration.

Lots of love,

Rita

P.S.: Follow me on @winewithwitapodcast for more tips, insights and updates.

This episode was proudly sponsored Tambakis Physiotherapy, because parents deserve support too. When you're raising a child with physical or developmental challenges having the right people around you makes all the difference.

Tambakis offers expert, family centred physiotherapy and exercise physiology in Sydney's South-West, helping you feel less alone and more supported on the journey. Learn more at tambakisphysiotherapy.com.au

Disclaimer: the purpose of this podcast is to provide information. You must not rely on the information on this podcast as an alternative to speech and language therapy. You must always consult with a Speech Pathologist, GP and/or paediatrician if you have any concerns about your child's communication and/development.

Hi everyone, This week on Wine with Wita, I’m bringing you a solo episode straight from my speech therapy room, and it all started with a toy house and a little girl who thought Miss Rachel had walked into the room. It’s funny how often parent say to me: “I wish I was like Miss Rachel.” But the truth is… you already can be. Singing with your child doesn’t require a perfect voice or a polished routine. It’s about connection, joy, and creating moments of learning, whether you’re packing lunchboxes, brushing teeth, or cleaning up toys.In this episode, I’m sharing:✨ Why singing works (and why I use it so often in therapy and at home) ✨ How you can build connection and boost communication with everyday routines ✨ A little encouragement to embrace your inner Miss Rachel - even if you think you “can’t sing”For anyone curious about how everyday moments can spark connection and communication, this story is a reminder of the magic in the small things.PS: Would you love to hear me interview the real Miss Rachel on Wine with Wita? Let me know!Lots of love, RitaP.S. Don’t forget to follow the new Instagram page: ⁠@winewithwitapodcast⁠. I’d love to hear your thoughts and stories! 🥂 Disclaimer: the purpose of this podcast is to provide information. You must not rely on the information on this podcast as an alternative to speech and language therapy. You must always consult with a Speech Pathologist, GP and/or paediatrician if you have any concerns about your child's communication and/development.

Hi everyone,

This week on Wine with Wita, I sat down with Nick Canella,father of three, die-hard AC Milan fan, and the heart behind Football4All at Moorebank Sports Soccer Club.

We talked about a father navigating the complexities ofraising a child with one of the rarest neuromuscular disorders in Australia: a condition so rare his son was the first recorded case in the country.

In this conversation, Nick shares:

⚽️ The heartbreak of hearing his son’s diagnosis and the weight of “we just don’t know what the future holds”

⚽️ The ripple effect on family, including how chronic stress impacted their health and relationships

⚽️The story of flying his son to Perth to meet his football hero, Olivier Giroud, and why it meant so much more than a photo opportunity

⚽️ How he realised there were so few opportunities for kids with disabilities to play sport, and what he did next

⚽️ The creation and incredible growth of Football4All, giving kids with additional needs a safe, inclusive space to play and belong

Despite the challenges, Nick’s story is a reminder of howcommunity, hope, and a shared love of football can create lasting change.

Lots of love,

Rita

Football4All at Moorebank Sports Soccer Club

is looking for volunteers to support kids with special needson and off the field. ⚽️ Get in touch today!

This episode of Wine with Wita is brought to you by Nundies- soft, sensory-friendly absorbent pants for kids who need a little extra support with toileting.

As a speechie and a mum, I know how helpful they can be fordelayed toilet training or sensory needs.

They're gentle, breathable, NDIS-covered, and make everyday life that bit easier. Get 30% off your first order with the code WITA30 at ConfidenceClub.com.au.

Disclaimer: the purpose of this podcast is to provide information. You must not rely on the information on this podcast as an alternative to speech and language therapy. You must always consult with a Speech Pathologist, GP and/or paediatrician if you have any concerns about your child's communication and/development

Hi everyone,

This week on Wine with Wita, I sit down with Youssef Dib, one of Australia’s most recognised boxers, part of a legendary fighting family, and a father of three.

But this episode isn’t about titles or trophies. It’s about what happens outside the ring: in hospital corridors, therapy rooms, and quiet moments of doubt and faith.

Youssef’s middle child, Jibreel, was born at just 25 weeks, weighing around 830 grams.

After spending four months in NICU and receiving a cerebral palsy diagnosis at 8 months, doctors suggested it might be time to let go. But Youssef and his wife held on, to hope, to faith, and to their son.

In this conversation, Youssef shares:

⚡️ The emotional toll of watching his newborn fight for life in NICU

⚡️ How he initially struggled with denial, leaving most of the early intervention to his wife

⚡️ The turning point that led him to fully embrace fatherhood, and advocacy

⚡️ How Jibreel, now thriving in mainstream school, continues to defy every “he’ll never…” they were told

Despite being a fighter in the ring, Youssef says it’s his son who taught him what true strength looks like. Now, Youssef is not only a proud dad but a passionate advocate for kids with special needs, using his voice to share what he wishes more dads knew.

This episode was proudly sponsored Tambakis Physiotherapy, because parents deserve support too.

When you're raising a child with physical or developmental challenges having the right people around you makes all the difference.

Tambakis offers expert, family centred physiotherapy and exercise physiology in Sydney's South-West, helping you feel less alone and more supported on the journey.

Learn more at tambakisphysiotherapy.com.au

Disclaimer: the purpose of this podcast is to provide information. You must not rely on the information on this podcast as an alternative to speech and language therapy. You must always consult with a Speech Pathologist, GP and/or paediatrician if you have any concerns about your child's communication and/development

Hi everyone,

What if you were told your child would never walk, talk, or be included?

In this week’s episode of Wine with Wita, I sit down with two remarkable humans: George Tonna and Marco Quintao, founders of Heroes with Ability, a grassroots organisation changing the lives of children and young adults with disabilities through inclusive sport.

George, who has cerebral palsy, went from being left out at school to representing Australia in the Paralympics.

Marco, a proud father to a son with severe disabilities, turned his family's heartbreak into hope for others.

Together, they’ve built more than a sports program. They’ve built a community where kids find friendship, confidence, and joy.

In this episode we talk:

⚡️ How Heroes with Ability began in a schoolyard and grew into something big

⚡️ The power of sport to break stigma and build life skills

⚡️ What parents really need to hear after a diagnosis

⚡️ Why inclusion starts with opportunity, and a pair of wings

It’s honest, emotional, and one of the most powerful conversations we’ve had on the podcast.

If you’ve ever wondered what true impact looks like, it’s this.

Lots of love,

Rita

P.S.: Heroes with Ability is currently looking for sponsors and supporters to continue their incredible work. If you or someone you know can help, please visit their website  or connect via Instagram.

This episode of Wine with Wita is brought to by Nundies - soft, sensory-friendly absorbent pants for kids who need a little extra support with toileting.

As a speechie and a mum, I know how helpful they can be for delayed toilet training or sensory needs.

They're gentle, breathable, NDIS-covered and make everyday life that bit easier, Get 30% off your first order with the code WITA30 at ConfidenceClub.com.au.

Disclaimer: the purpose of this podcast is to provide information. You must not rely on the information on this podcast as an alternative to speech and language therapy. You must always consult with a Speech Pathologist, GP and/or paediatrician if you have any concerns about your child's communication and/development

Hi everyone,

This week on Wine with Wita, I sat down with someone whose heart speaks louder than his fists: retired international heavyweight boxer, Junior Fa.

You might know him from the ring, but in this conversation, you’ll get to know him as a father, a fierce autism advocate, and someone who chose to walk away from professional boxing to align with something much deeper: his purpose.

Junior is a proud dad of three, including his son Ezra who is autistic.

In this honest chat, we speak about what it’s really like to raise a child with additional needs, the emotions, the advocacy, the cultural barriers, and the joy of seeing your child for exactly who they are.

He opens up about:

🥊 Retiring from boxing when it no longer aligned with his values

🥊 The moment Ezra was diagnosed and how it changed everything

🥊 Why he wears AUTISM on the back of his boxing shorts

🥊 What he wishes more dads (and families) understood about this journey

🥊 And the importance of letting go of who you thought your child would be, to embrace who they are

Junior’s story will move you. Not just because of what he’s achieved in the ring, but because of how he shows up outside of it: with humility, honesty, and love.

Follow Junior on Instagram: @juniorfaboxer

If this episode touched your heart, please share it with another parent, carer or educator who needs to hear that they’re not alone.

With love, Rita x

P.S. Follow me on @winewithwitapodcast for more tips, insights and updates.

This episode was proudly sponsored Tambakis Physiotherapy, because parents deserve support too.

When you're raising a child with physical or developmental challenges having the right people around you makes all the difference.

Tambakis offers expert, family centred physiotherapy and exercise physiology in Sydney's South-West, helping you feel less alone and more supported on the journey.

Learn more at tambakisphysiotherapy.com.au

Disclaimer: the purpose of this podcast is to provide information. You must not rely on the information on this podcast as an alternative to speech and language therapy. You must always consult with a Speech Pathologist, GP and/or paediatrician if you have any concerns about your child's communication and/development

Hi everyone,

When you think of a dance studio, you might picture competitions, costumes, and choreography. But for Megan Jessop, Director of Dance Habit, dance is about so much more than that.

It’s about belonging. Connection. Confidence. And creating a space where every child is seen, celebrated, and supported.

This week on Wine with Wita, Megan shares the story behind her childhood dream turned thriving business. From teaching ballet at age 16 in New Zealand to founding one of Melbourne’s most inclusive studios, Megan has never followed the traditional path, and that’s exactly why her story is so powerful.

In this episode we explore:

✨How dance can support neurodivergent children beyond the stage

✨What it takes to build a values-led business (even when it means letting go of “success” as others define it)

✨The growing wave of women being diagnosed with ADHD — and how Megan’s diagnosis gave her clarity and compassion for her younger self

✨Why inclusion isn’t just about who you welcome through the doors, but how you show up for them once they’re inside

It’s warm, honest, and full of lessons for parents, educators, and anyone trying to do things differently.

Lots of love,

Rita

P.S. Follow me on @winewithwitapodcast or more tips, insights and updates.

Disclaimer: the purpose of this podcast is to provide information. You must not rely on the information on this podcast as an alternative to speech and language therapy. You must always consult with a Speech Pathologist, GP and/or paediatrician if you have any concerns about your child's communication and/development