Think Different, Teach Better with Charlotte and Carla

Charlotte White and Carla Gardam

Welcome to “Think Different, Teach Better” - the podcast where Charlotte and Carla explore neurodiversity (and more) in the classroom. From traits and strategies to real talk and personal stories , we unpack what helps all kinds of brains thrive. Hear from educators and individuals navigating the system, and learn what actually works - and what doesn’t. Whether you’re a teacher or just curious, join us as we rethink learning and build more inclusive, supportive classrooms. Our email is thinkdifferentteachbetter@gmail.com or find us on Instagram, thinkdifferentteachbetter

  1. Episode 11 - Season One Recap, Neurodivergence and Neurodiversity in the Classroom

    24 AUG

    Episode 11 - Season One Recap, Neurodivergence and Neurodiversity in the Classroom

    In this season wrap-up, we revisit the key insights from our discussions on ADHD, Autism, Anxiety, OCD, PDA, Conduct Disorder, Trauma, and more. This episode ties it all together—clarifying neurodiversity vs. neurodivergence, exploring classroom strategies, and sharing resources to help every student thrive. Whether you’ve been with us from the start or are tuning in for the first time, this episode is your one-stop refresher on understanding and supporting neurodivergent learners. #ThinkDifferentTeachBetter #Neurodiversity #ADHD #Autism #AutismSpectrumDisorder #Anxiety #OCD #OCPD #ODD #PDA #ConductDisorder #Trauma #Neurodivergent #InclusiveEducation #TeachingTips #TeacherTraining #TeacherLife #StudentSupport #Nuerodiversityintheclassroom #Neurodivergenceintheclassroom #Strategiesforneurodiversity #Strategiesforneurodivergence

    16 min
  2. Episode 10 - Pathological Defiant Disorder and Conduct Disorder (Double episode)

    11 AUG

    Episode 10 - Pathological Defiant Disorder and Conduct Disorder (Double episode)

    Episode 10 of Think Different, Teach Better explores two very different behavioural profiles: Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) and Conduct Disorder. We unpack what each looks like, the underlying drivers, and why understanding the difference is essential for effective support. From reducing anxiety and offering choice, to building structure and using restorative practices, this episode gives educators, parents, and professionals practical, evidence-informed strategies to help every student thrive.#ThinkDifferentTeachBetter #PDA #PathologicalDemandAvoidance #ConductDisorder #Neurodiversity #Neurodivergent #InclusiveEducation #SpecialEducation #BehaviourSupport #PositiveBehaviourSupport #BehaviourStrategies #ClassroomStrategies #RestorativePractice #TeacherPodcast #EducationPodcast #TeacherTraining #StudentSupport #TeachingTips #Differentiation #MentalHealthAwareness #SchoolWellbeing #TraumaInformed #ChildBehaviour #ParentSupport #TeacherLife #EducatorLife #TeachBetter #TeacherCommunity

    22 min
  3. Episode 9 - Supporting Students with Oppositional Defiant Disorder and Trauma

    31 JUL

    Episode 9 - Supporting Students with Oppositional Defiant Disorder and Trauma

    In this episode of Think Different, Teach Better, Charlotte and Carla dive into the intersection of trauma-informed teaching and Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD). We explore: How trauma impacts learning, behaviour, and classroom dynamicsStrengths-based strategies that build safety, trust, and engagementUnderstanding ODD through a lens of autonomy, anxiety, and communicationPractical, evidence-based approaches for reducing power struggles and supporting emotional regulationReal classroom case studies and resources for educatorsThis is a must-listen for teachers, school leaders, and anyone passionate about creating classrooms where every student—especially those with challenging behaviours—can thrive. Instagram Post Caption  NEW EPISODE ALERT!Trauma-Informed, Strengths-Based Classrooms & Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) Defiance isn’t always what it seems. Often, it’s a sign of stress, unmet needs, or trauma. In this episode, we unpack: How trauma shapes behaviour and learningWhat Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) really is—and why punishment doesn’t workStrengths-based strategies to build trust, reduce conflict, and empower studentsReal-life classroom stories of how reframing behaviour can transform outcomesOur classrooms can be places of healing, connection, and growth—when we lead with empathy and understanding.  Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts.  Got questions or strategies that worked for you? DM us or email thinkdifferentteachbetter@gmail.com. Follow @thinkdifferentteachbetter for more insights. #ThinkDifferentTeachBetter#TraumaInformedTeaching#StrengthsBasedEducation#OppositionalDefiantDisorder#ODDSupport#ClassroomManagementStrategies#TraumaInformedEducation#PositiveBehaviourSupport#NeurodiversityInEducation#InclusiveTeaching#TeacherWellbeing#StudentWellbeing#SchoolBehaviourSecrets#BerryStreetEducationModel#NeurodiverseClassrooms#EducationalPsychology#RelationshipBasedLearning#TraumaSensitiveSchools#TeachingWithEmpathy#TeacherLifeAustralia#ClassroomConnection#BuildingResilienceInStudents#SocialEmotionalLearning#AutonomySupport#StudentEngagement#SchoolLeadership#TeacherPodcast#StudentCentredLearning

    23 min
  4. Episode 8 - Supporting Students with Tourette Syndrome and Tick Disorders

    15 JUL

    Episode 8 - Supporting Students with Tourette Syndrome and Tick Disorders

    Tourette Syndrome, tic disorders, and trichotillomania are often misunderstood in school settings—mistaken for disruptions, attention-seeking, or behavioural issues. In this episode, we uncover what these conditions really are: neurological, often invisible, and deeply affecting for students. We explore: The difference between Tourette Syndrome, Provisional Tic Disorder, and Persistent Tic Disorder What teachers should never do when a student is ticcing Practical strategies for inclusive classrooms Understanding trichotillomania (hair pulling) and how to support without shame The role of CBIT (Comprehensive Behavioural Intervention for Tics) Real classroom case studies that show what support can look like Whether you're a teacher, learning support staff, or school leader, this episode is filled with evidence-based, student-centred insights to help all learners thrive. 🎧 Tune in now to rethink classroom inclusion from a neurological lens. #ThinkDifferentTeachBetter#TouretteSyndromeAwareness#TicDisorders#TrichotillomaniaSupport#BodyFocusedRepetitiveBehaviours#NeurodiversityInEducation#InclusiveEducation#TraumaInformedTeaching#TeacherPodcast#StudentWellbeing#OCDandTics#ADHDAwareness#AutismAcceptance#CBIT#MentalHealthInSchools#EducationalSupport#TeacherLifeAustralia#SupportEveryLearner#NeurodivergentStudents#ClassroomStrategies

    14 min
  5. Episode 7 - Supporting Students with OCD or OCPD

    7 JUL

    Episode 7 - Supporting Students with OCD or OCPD

    OCD and OCPD are often confused—but they’re fundamentally different. In this episode, we break down the psychological and behavioural distinctions between obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and obsessive-compulsive personality disorder (OCPD), and why understanding these differences is crucial in the classroom. Charlotte and Carla explore how each can affect student behaviour, engagement, and wellbeing—and share practical strategies for managing anxiety, perfectionism, and rigid thinking at school. From Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) to flexible success criteria and reflective journaling, this episode is packed with tools and case studies to support inclusive, compassionate teaching. #ThinkDifferentTeachBetter #OCDinTheClassroom #OCPDinThe Classroom#OCPDexplained #NeurodiversityInEducation #TeacherPodcast #InclusiveTeaching #MentalHealthAwareness #TraumaInformedTeaching #SupportAllStudents #PrimaryTeacherTools #FlexibleTeaching #MindfulEducation #ObsessiveCompulsiveDisorder #PerfectionismInStudents #EmpoweredEducation #EducationalPsychology

    20 min
  6. Episode 6 - Supporting Students with Dysgraphia, Dyscalculia and/or Math Anxiety

    27 JUN

    Episode 6 - Supporting Students with Dysgraphia, Dyscalculia and/or Math Anxiety

    In this episode of Think Different, Teach Better, we unpack three common yet often misunderstood learning challenges: dysgraphia, dyscalculia, and math anxiety. You'll learn how to identify signs in the classroom, understand how these difficulties differ, and implement evidence-based strategies to support students. We also discuss the role of self-efficacy and how teacher mindset can influence student outcomes. Practical examples, toolkits, and case studies included. #Dysgraphia #Dyscalculia #MathAnxiety #ThinkDifferentTeachBetter #NeurodiversityInEducation #InclusiveTeaching #PrimaryEducation #TeacherSupport #SelfEfficacy #LearningDifferences #VisibleLearning #CBTStrategies #MathematicsEducation

    22 min
  7. Episode 5 - Supporting Students with Anxiety in The Classroom

    14 JUN

    Episode 5 - Supporting Students with Anxiety in The Classroom

    In this episode, we explore how anxiety shows up in student behaviour—and what we, as educators, can do to help. From understanding the different types of anxiety disorders to implementing practical, evidence-based strategies, Charlotte and Carla guide you through what it means to create a calm, responsive, and supportive classroom environment. Whether it’s social anxiety, GAD, OCD, or selective mutism—this episode is full of tools you can take straight into your teaching practice. We also share a real case study and provide a range of resources you can explore further. 🎧 Tune in now to Think Different, Teach Better and empower yourself to better support anxious learners. #ThinkDifferentTeachBetter #AnxietyInTheClassroom #Neurodiversity #InclusiveEducation #StudentWellbeing #EducationMatters #TeacherTools #SocialEmotionalLearning #MentalHealthAwareness #TraumaInformedTeaching #CalmClassroom #SupportEveryLearner #PrimaryTeacherAustralia #TeacherPodcasts #MindfulTeaching

    20 min
  8. Episode 4 - Supporting Students with Dyslexia in the Classroom

    6 JUN

    Episode 4 - Supporting Students with Dyslexia in the Classroom

    Understanding and Supporting Students with Dyslexia Dyslexia is the most common form of neurodivergence, yet many educators feel unsure about how to support it. In this episode, we explore what dyslexia really is, how it affects learning, and how teachers can make a meaningful difference through early intervention and inclusive strategies. We also reflect on the emotional impact of dyslexia and the strengths these students bring to the classroom. #Dyslexiaintheclassroom #Dyslexia #DyslexiaAwareness #Neurodiversity #InclusiveEducation #ThinkDifferentTeachBetter #TeachingWithEmpathy #EducationPodcast #DyslexiaSupport #StudentSuccess #TeacherTips #MultisensoryLearning

    17 min
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About

Welcome to “Think Different, Teach Better” - the podcast where Charlotte and Carla explore neurodiversity (and more) in the classroom. From traits and strategies to real talk and personal stories , we unpack what helps all kinds of brains thrive. Hear from educators and individuals navigating the system, and learn what actually works - and what doesn’t. Whether you’re a teacher or just curious, join us as we rethink learning and build more inclusive, supportive classrooms. Our email is thinkdifferentteachbetter@gmail.com or find us on Instagram, thinkdifferentteachbetter

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