The Deep Dive Podcast

thedeepdiveau
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Hosted by Michael Coles (An Autistic/ADHDer), we will explore the narratives that unfold beneath the surface as we embark on this journey together. Every story shared is a unique treasure waiting to be uncovered. Let curiosity guide you through the depths of knowledge and insight. Join us on the expedition that transcends boundaries, where voices echo in the silence of discovery. Embrace the richness of each tale, for in the depths of conversation lies the true essence of a Special Subject. No subject is too heavy or taboo on this podcast, as we like to explore all facets of our community.

  1. 20 Oct

    Presuming Competence in AAC: Every Voice Matters with Kayla Ireland

    What does it truly mean to presume competence—and how can it transform the lives of people who use Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC)?In this episode of The Deep Dive Podcast, Michael Coles speaks with Kayla Ireland about respectful, person-centred communication and the importance of recognising that limited speech does not mean limited intelligence.Kayla explores:What it means to presume competence in AACThe difference between deficit-based and strengths-based approachesHow the medical and social models of disability shape communication supportWhy “non-speaking” and “non-verbal” can create very different assumptionsWhat an effective written communication plan should includeThe roles of families, educators, therapists and speech-language pathologistsHow low expectations can restrict inclusion, literacy and independenceWhy disabled people must have a meaningful voice in decisions about their livesThe importance of reviewing communication plans as people’s needs and circumstances changeThis conversation challenges traditional hierarchies between professional expertise and lived experience. It offers practical guidance for families, educators, therapists, support workers and anyone committed to disability inclusion.As Kayla explains, respect, patience and access create opportunities for communication, autonomy and growth.You can follow her on Instagram & YouTube  @KindlyNeurodivergentwithKay ​

  2. 6 Oct

    How Gaming Helps Neurodivergent Kids Build Connection with Jess Rowlings

    In this episode of The Deep Dive Podcast, Michael Coles speaks with Jess Rowlings, speech pathologist, researcher, autistic ADHD advocate, gamer, and CEO of Next Level Collaboration.Jess shares how cooperative video games can create safe, strengths-based spaces where neurodivergent kids build confidence, communication, teamwork, friendships, and a genuine sense of belonging.Together, Michael and Jess explore:Why traditional “social skills” programs often miss the markHow gaming can support neurodivergent communication and connectionThe difference between screen time quantity and screen time qualityWhy neurodivergent kids should not be taught to maskHow co-design with neurodivergent people shaped Next Level CollaborationThe importance of Girls Plus gaming spaces for girls, non-binary and gender diverse young peopleHow neurodivergent staff and mentors create powerful role modellingWhat schools, workplaces and families can learn by listening to neurodivergent peopleJess also reflects on being an openly autistic woman in academia and business, the role gaming played in her own life, and her advice for anyone learning to trust themselves and follow what feels right. You can find out more at http://www.nextlevelcollaboration.com

  3. 22 Sept

    Autism-Friendly Family Travel: Sensory Tips, Airports & Holiday Planning with Jade Sharp

    In this episode of The Deep Dive Podcast, Michael Coles speaks with Jade Sharp, a Certified Autism Travel Professional, about how families can plan more inclusive, calmer and more manageable holidays for neurodivergent children and autistic travellers.Jade shares practical advice on planning family travel around pace, sensory load, transitions, predictability and flexibility, including how accommodation choices, airport preparation, visual supports and formal accessibility programs can make a big difference.The conversation covers:How to plan holidays around your family’s real pace and energy levelsWhy sensory load matters in airports, theme parks, cruises and busy destinationsHow accommodation location and room setup can support neurodivergent travellersWhat the Hidden Disability Sunflower program can offerAirport quiet rooms and low-sensory spaces in AustraliaVisual supports, social stories and destination guidesJade’s Travel Through My Eyes airport preparation workbookDisney DAS, Legoland queue assistance, cruise accessibility programs and other formal supportsWhy lived experience matters when planning inclusive family travelJade also shares encouragement for families who feel uncertain about travel, reminding listeners that holidays do not need to be perfect to be meaningful — and that with the right planning and support, travel can still be a positive experience.Check out http://www.jadesharptravel.com.au Check out the Episode "Neurodivergent Travel Hacks in Australia - Season 1, Episode 7" for the compendium episode.

  4. 8 Sept

    Leaving Corporate Burnout Behind: Autistic Burnout, AuDHD & Business with Caroline Warnes

    In this episode of The Deep Dive Podcast, Michael Coles speaks with Caroline Warnes, a Sydney-based writer and consultant, about Autistic burnout, AuDHD and the impact of the corporate world on neurodivergent people.Caroline is AuDHD and the sole carer of her AuDHD son. After experiencing how traditional workplaces and corporate systems often fail neurodivergent people, she began building a different way of working — one centred on flexibility, sustainability, financial independence and nervous-system-friendly business design.This conversation explores what happens when neurodivergent people spend years trying to survive environments that demand masking, constant availability, rigid structures and ways of working that do not support Autistic or AuDHD needs.Caroline shares her perspective on moving away from corporate burnout and toward a consulting and advisory business that supports real life, parenting, care responsibilities and neurodivergent wellbeing.In this episode:Autistic burnout and the corporate world How traditional workplaces can contribute to neurodivergent burnout AuDHD, masking, overwhelm and recovery Leaving unsustainable work patterns behind Building a neurodivergent-friendly consulting business Creating flexibility as a parent, carer and business owner Designing work around nervous-system needs Financial independence and sustainable advisory work You can check her out on Instagram at @carolinewarnes.sydney

  5. 25 Aug

    Vanessa Mancuso on Late Autism Diagnosis, Autistic Parenting & Homeschooling Neurodivergent Children

    In this episode of The Deep Dive Podcast, we speak with Vanessa Mancuso about her experience of receiving a late autism diagnosis, how it reshaped her understanding of identity, masking, mental health, parenting, and what it means to raise autistic children as an autistic parent. Vanessa shares openly about the complex emotions that can come with late diagnosis — including relief, grief, confusion, and self-understanding — and how diagnosis helped her make sense of lifelong struggles with masking, connection, confidence, sensory needs, and burnout.We also explore Vanessa’s journey as a parent of autistic children, including: Recognising autistic traits in her childrenAdvocating for diagnosis and supportNavigating the NDISUnderstanding different autistic presentationsManaging sensory needs and emotional regulation as a familyThe importance of safety and connection before correctionWhy homeschooling became the right choice for her childrenHow low-demand, flexible learning can support autistic wellbeingSupporting social connection outside traditional school environmentsThis conversation is a powerful and honest look at late-diagnosed autism, autistic motherhood/parenting, neurodivergent family life, and creating an environment where autistic children can build self-esteem, identity, and confidence.

  6. 11 Aug

    Robert Annis | Making Neuroinclusion Measurable with the NEURO Standard

    Robert Annis is an organisational psychologist and co-founder of NEURO (www.neurocharity.org), a charity helping organisations move beyond awareness into systems—building, evidencing, and showcasing meaningful neuroinclusion.Robert leads NEURO’s work to turn neuroinclusion into measurable capability through the NEURO Standard, spanning schools, universities, employers, and public services. NEURO has been recognised as Charity of the Year at the NCC Business Awards, and Robert is a frequent keynote speaker and guest lecturer on neurodivergence, leadership, and systems change.Learn more about NEURO: www.neurocharity.org

  7. 28 Jul

    Rachel Fletcher (She/They) | Adult Neurodiversity Support & Nature-Based Therapy

    Rachel Fletcher (She/They) is a neurodivergent speech pathologist and private practitioner in Melbourne, supporting neurodivergent adults with approaches that move beyond traditional clinic spaces. Rachel’s work includes nature-based therapy and Telehealth, with a focus on practical, real-world support.Drawing on both professional training and lived experience, Rachel is passionate about creating support that is:Flexible and client-ledSensory-aware (built for real sensory needs, not “one-size-fits-all”)Grounded in real-life contexts, rather than rigid therapy modelsLearn more about Rachel’s work: www.rachelfletcherspeechie.com.au

  8. 14 Jul

    Neurodivergent Community & Sensory-Safe Events: The Neuro Awesome Story | Carolina Jimenez

    In this interview, Carolina Jimenez shares the story behind Neuro Awesome—a community created to meet a real need for sensory-considerate, safe social spaces for neurodivergent adults who want genuine connection without pressure to mask.We explore why many mainstream social environments can lead to overstimulation, exhaustion, and burnout, and how Neuro Awesome designs events differently: calm venues, clear expectations, and a supportive culture led by people with lived neurodivergent experience.You’ll hear how Neuro Awesome’s events are built to be predictable and accessible, including:Venue choices that reduce sensory load (noise, lighting, crowding)Pre-event communication that explains what to expect and reinforces consent and safetyA color-card system for low-pressure, nonverbal communication (space/topic change/breaks)Flexible participation—attendees can stim, observe, or take breaks without judgmentCarolina also talks about the real-world impact: growing attendance across multiple events, increased confidence and independence for participants, and success stories of people reconnecting socially after years of isolation. We discuss the long-term vision for expanding Neuro Awesome’s model across Australia, while keeping trust, safety, and inclusivity at the center.You can check out Neuro Awesome at http://www.neuroawesome.com.au

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About

Hosted by Michael Coles (An Autistic/ADHDer), we will explore the narratives that unfold beneath the surface as we embark on this journey together. Every story shared is a unique treasure waiting to be uncovered. Let curiosity guide you through the depths of knowledge and insight. Join us on the expedition that transcends boundaries, where voices echo in the silence of discovery. Embrace the richness of each tale, for in the depths of conversation lies the true essence of a Special Subject. No subject is too heavy or taboo on this podcast, as we like to explore all facets of our community.

Information

  • Creator
    thedeepdiveau
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    77
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © thedeepdiveau
  • Show Website
    The Deep Dive Podcast