Wine with Wita | Speech Pathology & Parenting Support

Wine with Wita | Speech Pathology & Parenting Support

By Rita ShamounParentingKids & Family
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Wine with Wita | Speech Pathology & Parenting Support episodes

  • Finding Magic in Connection: A Conversation with Michael Webb

    Hi everyone,

    ✨ Magic isn’t just abouttricks—it’s about connection.

    This week onWine with Wita, I had thepleasure of chatting with the incredible Michael Webb—better known asMagic Mike (no, not that Magic Mike 😆).

    Michael is a magician, but his story goes far beyondillusions and sleight of hand. If you’re a Hamish & Andy fan, you might know Michael from their podcast or Hamish’s legendary Cake Night on Instagram.

    If you watched Australia’s Got Talent, you’ve likely seen —it’sbeen viewed over 50 million times in the past six weeks! And if that’s not impressive enough, Nicole Kidman and Keith Urban had him perform at their intimate NYE party, and Chris Hemsworth invited him to wow guests at his 40th birthday in Byron Bay. There’s a reason the biggest names trust Michael to bring the magic!

    His unforgettable performance on Australia’s Got Talentwasn’t just about magic. It was about mental health, communication, and breaking down the stigma that keeps so many from speaking up.

    Our conversation explores:

    ✨How Michael went from a careerin finance to full-time magic.

    ✨ The personal struggles that ledhim to seek professional help.

    ✨ Why so many people—especiallymen—struggle to open up about mental health.

    ✨ The impact of his AGT performance and the overwhelming response from people around the world.

    His key message?

    You are not a burden. If you’re struggling, talking tosomeone isn’t a sign of weakness—it’s a step towards healing.

    This episode is filled with magic, laughter, and some trulypowerful conversations.

    I hope you love it as much as I did.

    Need support?💙 If you or someone youknow is struggling, please reach out for support:

    📞Lifeline – 13 11 14 (www.lifeline.org.au)

    📞Beyond Blue –1300 22 4636 (www.beyondblue.org.au)

    Want to see more of Michael’s magic?

    🌐Website:www.magicmikenotastripper.com.au

    📸Instagram:@magicmike_notastripper

    P.S. If you ever need a bit of wonder at your next event,Michael is your guy! ✨

    Lots of love,

    Rita

    P.S. As always, please reach out with any feedback. I loveto hear your thoughts on this episode!

     

    42 min
  • Surprising Factors Affecting Your Child’s Jaw and Airway Health, with Dr Shereen Lim (Part 2)

    Hi everyone,

    This week’s episode ofWine with Wita

    continues the conversation with Dr. Shereen Lim.

    In Part 2, we explore surprising factors that can shape your child’s development and health.

    Dr. Lim sheds light on:

    ✨ How teeth grinding signals underlying airway issues.

    ✨ The impact of everyday habits like sippy cups, dummies, and thumb sucking.

    ✨ Practical steps parents can take to support better jaw and airway health.

    In this second episode, Dr. Shreen Lim revealssurprising factors affecting your child’s development, liketeeth grinding, theuse of sippy cups, and

    thumb sucking.

    She explains how theseeveryday habits can shape jaw growth,breathing patterns, andlong-term health.

    Parents will also learnactionable tips for early intervention and how to connect with the right professionals to support their child’s airway and jaw health.

    Follow Dr. Shreen Lim on(@drshereenlim)  and visit her website at www.drshreenlim.com.au  for more insights and resources to support your child’s health and development.

    Lots of love,

    Rita

    P.S. Follow me on@winewithwitapodcast  for 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

    29 min
  • Why Airway Health Matters for Your Child, with Dr Shereen Lim

    Hi everyone,

    In this week’s episode ofWine with Wita, I’m joined by Dr. Shereen Lim, author of Breathe, Sleep, and Thrive.

    Together, we delve into the crucial topic of airway health and its profound impact on children’s development.

    Dr. Lim explains why good nasal breathing is the cornerstone of thriving health and how it supports better sleep, attention, and learning outcomes.

    We also discuss:

    ✨ The links between snoring and developmental challenges.

    ✨ How breathing affects attention and grey matter in the brain.

    ✨ The jaw’s role in airway development during early childhood.

    This episode highlights theimportance of airway health in children, explaining hownasal breathingsupportsbetter sleep,brain development, andlearning outcomes.

    Dr. Shreen Lim breaks down the

    surprising connections between snoring,attention issues, andbehavioural challenges, emphasising why early intervention is key.

    Parents will also gain insights into how thejaw’s development plays a critical role in their child’s overall health.

    Follow Dr. Shreen Lim (@dr.shereenlim) for moreinsights and visit her website atwww.drshereenlim.com.au  for more insights and resources to support your child’s health and development.

    Lots of love,

    Rita

    P.S. Follow me on @winewithwitapodcast for 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

    34 min
  • The Black Dress Trick for Better Communication with your Children

    Hi everyone,

    In this solo episode of Wine with Wita, I’m sharing one of my favourite strategies for supporting children’s communication—the Black Dress Analogy.

    Think about how you feel in a black dress: confident, comfortable, and validated.

    Now, compare that to how you might feel in a white

    dress—anxious, self-conscious, and unsure.

    The way we give feedback to our children can have the

    same effect.


    💡 Key takeaway?

    When we praise and encourage our children in a way that makes them feel good, they’re far more likely to repeat positive behaviours.

    But when feedback feels critical or negative, it discourages

    progress.

    In this episode, I break down how you can use black dress feedback to help your child feel confident in their communication and development.

    🎧 Listen now and start implementing this simple yet powerful shift.

    Lots of love,

    Rita x

    P.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

    8 min
  • Reading Challenges, Learning Styles and Supporting Teachers with Malia Hollowell

    Hi everyone,

    This week on Wine with Wita, I'm speaking with the amazing Malia Hollowell, founder of Play Doh to Plato and host of The Science of Reading Formula.

    Together, we discussed the magic of literacy, the challenges of early reading development, and how teachers and parents can work together to create confident, joyful learners.
    Our conversation explores:
    ✨ The foundations of oral language and their role in literacy.

    ✨ Why a team approach is vital for supporting children’s unique learning journeys.
    ✨ Strategies for developing phonological awareness (including Malia’s fun Play Doh activity!).
    Malia also shared her profound insights on the importance of giving ourselves grace. Whether we’re teachers navigating classroom challenges or parents supporting a child’s development.
    One key takeaway: Learning is not a race. Every child deserves the time and space to discover their superpower.

    Want More from Malia? 

    Malia’s website, Playdough to Plato, offers incredible resources for teachers and parents alike.

    Follow her on Instagram: @playdough2playto or tune into her podcast: The Science of Reading Formula (on Spotify) | (on Apple podcast)


    Catch the full episode now and share it with a

    teacher or parent who could use these valuable insights!
    Lots of love,
     Rita

    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

    28 min
  • How Trauma Impacts Behaviour and Learning with Lorna Genoud

    This week on Wine with Wita, I am bringing you a genuinely impactful conversation with Lorna Genoud, founder of The Safe Space Educator. Lorna is a dedicated and compassionate advocate for young people, especially those in out-of-home care.

    With over a decade of experience in education and social services, she has devoted her career to creating trauma-informed, inclusive environments that empower children and young adults to thrive.
    In this episode, Lorna shares her expertise on:

    ✨ How trauma impacts behaviour and learning.
    ✨ The importance of building meaningful relationships to support children’s development.
    ✨ Practical ways educators, parents, and professionals can implement trauma-informed practices.

    Many parents struggle to understand their child’s behaviour or feel unsure about how to connect with them on a deeper level.
    This episode offers valuable insights into building
    stronger relationships with your child by understanding their emotions and behaviours, creating a sense of safety, and fostering meaningful communication.
    Whether you're navigating challenging moments or seeking
    guidance to support your child’s unique needs, this conversation provides practical strategies and a fresh perspective to help you feel more empowered in your parenting journey.
    Follow Lorna Genoud on Instagram @thesafespaceeducator for more insights into trauma-informed practices and supporting children’s emotional and educational development.

    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.

    55 min
  • Transform Communication with Your Child: A Chat with Nisrine El-Choueifati

    Hi everyone,

    I’m excited to bring you the first interview of the year on Wine with Wita!

    This week, I’m joined by the incredible Nisrine El-Choueifati—a dear friend, talented speech pathologist, clinical educator, and children’s author.

    Our conversation explores:
    ✨ The power of reflection as a speech pathologist
    ✨ Supporting new graduates entering the profession
    ✨ The joy of connecting through food and friendship
    ✨ And a beautiful poem Nisrine wrote for Wine with Wita!
    This episode offers a fresh perspective and plenty of valuable
    takeaways.
    You can connect with Nisrine on Instagram.
    Whether you're a seasoned professional or someone interested in the stories behind the people who make a difference, this conversation will leave you feeling inspired and connected.
    Tune in to the episode now to hear Nisrine’s wisdom, stories, and reflections.
    Lots of love,
    Rita
    P.S. As always, please reach out with any feedback. I love to hear your thoughts on this episode!

     

    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

    1 hr 11 min
  • From Idea to Impact: The Story Behind Wine with Wita

    Hi everyone,

    Happy New Year!

    I'm so excited to kick off 2025 with an incredible season of Wine with Wita.

    This year, I'm bringing you even more powerful conversations to support you and your child on your journey.

    But this year is extra special... because for the first time

    ever, I'll be hosting solo segments Wita's Words -once a month!

    In this debut solo episode, I share the story of how Wine

    with Wita began, the meaning behind the name, and how it's evolved into a space for connection, support, and authentic conversations.

    If you've ever wondered about the journey that led to this podcast or how it can help you feel seen and supported, this is an episode you won't want to miss.

    Let's sip back and make 2025 a year of connection, growth, and support together.

     PS. 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

    15 min
  • The First Nine Months of Life with Donna Berry

    This week on Wine With Wita, I’m excited to welcome back Donna Berry. Donna was the very first guest on the podcast, and it feels like a beautiful full-circle moment to have her as the final guest of 2024.


    In this episode, Donna shares her profound insights into the crucial first nine months of life—starting from a mum’s pregnancy—and how these formative months shape who a child becomes.


    We explore how understanding a baby’s connection to their mum during pregnancy provides a window into their development, emotional health, and behaviour.


    Donna’s wisdom doesn’t stop there. We also dive into:

    ✨ Why supporting a parent’s needs is vital to supporting a

    child’s growth.

    ✨ The ripple effects of safe, nurturing relationships for

    families.

    ✨ The services and resources mums need to foster connection and optimal development for their children.


    Donna’s work was a huge inspiration for me when I created RS Speech Pathology; I couldn’t be more grateful for the opportunity to share her groundbreaking perspectives with you.


    You can connect with Donna on LinkedIn or Facebook.


    Wishing you all a very Merry Christmas! We will be back with new episodes as of the new year, bringing even more incredible conversations your way.

    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

    55 min
  • Navigating Motherhood, Guilt and Self-Care with Wendy Gilroy

    As a mum, have you ever felt like you need to ask for permission to take some time for yourself?


    This week on Wine with Wita, we’re diving deep into the whirlwind of motherhood with the lovely Wendy Gilroy.


    Wendy is a mum of two and a counsellor who specialises in

    supporting mothers through all phases of parenting, from the chaos of early years to the challenges of raising teens.


    With a holistic approach, Wendy shares her wisdom on:

    ✨ Letting go of guilt and embracing self-compassion

    ✨ The importance of communication and seeking support  

    ✨ Creating a circle of women who uplift and inspire

    ✨ How self-care is the ultimate act of love—for yourself and

    your family.


    Whether you're navigating toddler tantrums, teen dramas, or

    just trying to find a moment to breathe as a parent, this episode is packed with amazing advice and actionable tips.


    Feeling like you could use a bit more support? Wendy is

    offering FREE 20-minute consultations for mums. You can book directly on her website mindmomentum.com.au or connect with her on Instagram and Facebook.


    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

    45 min

About Wine with Wita | Speech Pathology & Parenting Support

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Wine with Wita is Australia's leading podcast for parents navigating life with children with communication difficulties, disabilities and additional support needs.