Wine with Wita | Speech Pathology & Parenting Support

This week’s podcast episode features the incredible Natasha Piccolo. Natasha is a speech pathologist, author, and proud mum to a wonderful autistic toddler.

Her story is one of self-discovery, resilience, and learning to embrace the beauty of neurodiversity within her family. In our conversation, Natasha shares her unique perspective as both a professional and a parent, touching on topics like:

✨ Navigating the realities of burnout after her son’s diagnosis.

✨ Recognising neurodiverse traits in her son and reflecting on her own journey with OCD and exploring ADHD.

✨ Advocating for her family amidst the complexities of NDIS funding.

✨ Shifting the idea of self-care to fit the reality of life as a parent of a child with special needs.

✨ Celebrating small wins and embracing the strengths of neurodiversity.

This episode is full of thoughtful reflections that will leave you feeling both understood and inspired.

Whether you’re on a similar journey or simply want to better understand the beauty and challenges of neurodiverse families, this episode has something for you.

You can connect with Natasha here @tashspeaks and here @resonate_holistic

You must always consult with a Speech Pathologist, GP and/or paediatrician if you have any concerns about your child's speech, language and communication skills.

This week on Wine with Wita, I’m joined by Connor Bailey, an inspiring teacher who is making waves in the world of swim education.

 Recently named the 2024 Australian Swim Teacher of the Year for Learners with a Disability, Connor shared his journey from being diagnosed with ASD at age 4 and overcoming childhood challenges to becoming a passionate advocate for inclusivity and neurodiversity.

 In our conversation, we dive into:

✨ The social and learning challenges that led to homeschooling

✨ The power of understanding a child’s behaviour as their form of communication

✨ The importance of creating safe spaces for neurodiverse

Connor also reflected on his frustrations with being misunderstood growing up and how he turned those experiences into a career dedicated to helping others.

 His mission is clear: everyone deserves the opportunity to

 If you’ve ever wondered how to better support neurodiverse

Follow Connor's story via his social media platform, connor_bailey_lwd

Disclaimer: the purpose of this podcast is to provide

In this week’s episode of Wine with Wita, I spoke with James Sismanes, an award-winning audio and visual storyteller from Melbourne. He recently, debuted his first children’s book (The Marvellous Mullabaloos Only Wear Blue) .

A few months ago, I reached out to James, as his book

Throughout the conversation, James openly shared his

Tourette’s syndrome (TS) is a disorder that involves

James openly discussed the impact his diagnosis had on his childhood and difficulties he experienced. However, James wonderfully linked his “pain to his purpose”. Intertwining his love of producing and writing

Throughout the interview, James, continually expressed the need to “be you” and to celebrate your abilities and strengths – as that is your hidden superpower. Many aspects all individuals particularly children with

James and I also discussed similar perspectives of

It was a marvellous episode – without a doubt you will enjoy it too!

You can follow James on @jamessismanes

James’ book is available from most book outlets or online

(The Marvellous Mullabaloos Only Wear Blue) .

Disclaimer: the purpose of this podcast is to provide

November NICU Awareness Month is a time to highlight

This week on Wine with Wita, I interviewed Emma

During those early days, Emma began writing a poem,

Fourteen months later, that poem evolved into *I Love You

This episode was quite special as I was a premi-baby, born at 34 weeks. My mothers recount is very similar to Emma's. 

You can contact Emma via social media @emmatellingtales

To purchase Emma's beautiful book see the link below

⁠I love you little baby: A baby's NICU story : Ferguson, Emma: Amazon.com.au: Books⁠

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 speech, language and communication skills.

Jocelyn Manzanarez, is on a mission to help

Through music and movement! Two highly-effective, yet underutilized strategies too often missing in the classroom. 

She owns and operates Musically Minded, a Seattle based early childhood music education program that provides weekly music classes at childcare centre and preschools and virtual.

Jocelyn is a frequent presenter at ECE conferences

Recently, Jocelyn was a guest on the Wiggles Podcast - where she sparkled her magic and wonderful insight too.

This episode of Wine with Wita was such a vibe! I had so

Throughout the episode, many useful strategies were discussed, particularly with ways to support your child's communication and literacy through music!

You can contact Jocelyn via her website or social media

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 speech, language and communication skills.

Renee Bell knew that something was wrong with her son Nik, despite her GP not addressing her concerns. Like all parents, her mother's intuition would not budge.

Unknowingly, she did like all parents and referred to Dr. Google.After a few consultations, her GP referred her to a paediatrician, which led to the journey of her son's diagnosis of Neurofibromatosis type 1.

Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) is a genetic condition that causes changes in skin pigment and tumours on nerve tissue. It can likely contribute to learning and developmental delays.

This week on Wine with Wita, Renee's personal story was raw and a true representation of any parents' endless strength to advocate for their child.

I absolutely loved this interview. Despite Renee discussing her frustrations and challenges, we both expressed the joy and wonder her son and other special needs children bring to our world. It was beautiful.

Disclaimer: the purpose of this podcast is to provide information. You must not rely on the information on this podcast as an alterative 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 speech, language and communication skills.

As parents, we tend to put our wellbeing to the side.

Managing busy lifestyles, work, proper nutrition and therapy appointments can take a toll on our health.

This week on Wine with Wita, I spoke with Deena Jane Kelaita, a registered Clinical Nutritionist with nearly a decade of experience specializing in gut health, genetic health, and personalized nutrition.

Deena dug deep into the impact of chronic stress, hormone health and gut health. All of these areas I find so interesting especially as I navigate better ways to support my health in our current generation.

Deena also discussed making better nutrition choices tailored to their unique health needs, emphasizing the holistic connection between the body, mind, soul and the importance of re-connecting with nature.

The interviewed was paused midpoint as my daughter needed mummy cuddles. She had gastro and her fever broke. Funny given the context of the interview haha.

She was a trooper though and patiently waited till the end!

I look forward to sharing Deena's insights and practical tips that help individuals on their journey to vibrant living and optimal well-being!

To contact Deena, please follow her socials:

@deenajanenutritionist

www.deenajanekelaita.com

Disclaimer: the purpose of this podcast is to provide information. You must not rely on the information on this podcast as an alterative 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 speech, language and communication skills.

In this episode of Wine with Wita, I spoke with Lewis Huckstep, a performance and fulfilment coach dedicated to helping high achievers create a life on their own terms.

At a young age, Lewis was diagnosed with Asperger's and ADHD. He openly discussed his challenges particularly with communication, socialising and learning.

Lewis also faced several challenges in his youth, navigating mental health difficulties and a dysregulated nervous system.

Despite, the obstacles he faced with maintaining several businesses, he found his purpose in networking and coaching many individuals to live their best life.

Lewis hosts a successful podcast and is soon to launch his book Inspired Life Method. To be released next week, October 18th 2024.

As a clinician, I was beaming with pride with how Lewis, shaped his challenges into his purpose.

Whether you are a parent, clinician or follower, Lewis' story will warm your heart.

His story is a true testament that you are not defined by your disability but heighted by your ability.

Follow Lewis Huckstep @lewishuckstep

Disclaimer: the purpose of this podcast is to provide information. You must not rely on the information on this podcast as an alterative 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 speech, language and communication skills.

With over 20 years of experience as a paediatric

Dave is driven to support Allied Health businesses in

A sought-after speaker and trainer, Dave offers expertise on regulation, resilience, beating burnout, and his innovative '3S Approach to Achieving Authentic Confidence as an Allied Health Professional'. He is the

Dave’s guiding principle is to "support the people who

I loved this interview! It was refreshing to engage in meaningful conversations with a fellow paediatrics allied health member.

Without a doubt you will gain valuable insight too!

You can contact Dave via the following platforms:

Disclaimer: the purpose of this podcast is to provide information. You must not rely on the information on this podcast as an alterative 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 speech, language and communication skills.

Kizzy serves on the Mental Health and Trauma Advisory Panel of Speech Pathology Australia and is an active lived experience advisory member on several Sydney Local Health District committees focused on mental health.

Her dedication to trauma-informed practice stems from her own transformative experiences, both personally and

www.attunedspeech.com.au

Disclaimer: the purpose of this podcast is to provide information. You must not rely on the information on this podcast as an alterative 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 speech, language and communication skills.