The Sunflower Conversations

Hidden Disabilities Sunflower
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Welcome to the Sunflower Conversations, the podcast where we explore the experiences of disabled people with non-visible disabilities through the lens of the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower.   This is a space to hear authentic stories from disabled people navigating life with non-visible disabilities such as chronic illness, mental health conditions, neurodivergence, and more. While most episodes focus on lived experience, we also feature occasional insights from experts in healthcare, accessibility, and inclusion.   Whether you or someone you care about wears the Sunflower, our conversations aim to raise awareness, build understanding, and help create a more inclusive and compassionate world.   Empowering voices. Raising awareness. Challenging assumptions - one conversation at a time.

  1. 4d ago

    ME and CRPS with Adele - Australia and New Zealand

    In this episode of Sunflower Conversations, James Dunn speaks with Adele Evans about ME/CFS and developing complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) following an accident. We discuss the realities of chronic pain, the challenges of navigating an often misunderstood condition, and how the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower can help make everyday experiences more inclusive. • Adele’s early ME/CFS symptoms, the journey to diagnosis and finding a GP who listens • how fatigue, pain and family life shape everyday decisions • developing CRPS after an accident and the challenges of finding effective treatment • what CRPS can involve beyond pain, including touch sensitivity, swelling, temperature changes, spasms and brain fog • the impact of chronic pain on sleep, work, memory and daily routines • common misconceptions, fluctuating symptoms and the experience of masking in public Visit our website, Facebook, or Instagram for more resources.

    ME and CRPS with Adele - Australia and New Zealand

  2. Oct 25

    Autism and college transition with Hannah Jewell

    Hannah is an occupational therapist, autism specialist, and mum to two autistic children who also have ADHD. In this episode, Hannah joins us to share her daughter's experiences of transitioning from school to secondary school to college. We learn what autism can mean in real life, from communication and processing differences to routines, uncertainty, and the sensory overload that can make ordinary spaces feel impossible. Hannah walks us through EHCP pressure, tribunals, and the gap between provision on paper and the help students actually receive. We cover how to choose the right college, what to ask the learning support and disability teams, and why tools like a laptop, study skills support, and extra tuition only work if a student can access them easily when overwhelmed. What is autism Masking and its impactsImpact of late recognition of autistic girls The EHCP processWhat good support looks like Considerations when choosing a collegeImportance of practical tools Hidden Disabilities Sunflower as a way to ask for help If you are concerned about any of the subjects discussed in the podcast, please follow up with your healthcare practitioner for support.   For support: Hannah is OT.by.the.seaNational Autistic Society UK  Hosted by Chantal Boyle, Hidden Disabilities Sunflower.    If you enjoyed this podcast, please leave a rating and review.    Find out more about the Sunflower by visiting the website hdsunflower.com    Music by © Sandee Facy / Michael Saleta www.sandeefacy.com.au

    Autism and college transition with Hannah Jewell

  3. Oct 12

    Autism with Sophie - Australia and New Zealand

    In this episode of Sunflower Conversations, James Dunn speaks with Sophie Riggs about autism, late diagnosis, and the everyday reality of being disbelieved because disability is not visible.  We discuss what genuine inclusion looks like in schools, workplaces, airports, and major sporting venues when people actually listen and make small adjustments.  • early childhood assessments, multiple diagnoses and what it feels like to be kept in the dark  • why classrooms can be overwhelming, plus the supports Sophie wishes she had • living with POTS, ARFID, anxiety, fibromyalgia and other co-occurring conditions  • how the Hidden Disability Sunflower lanyard helps at airports through pre-boarding, staff awareness and sensory spaces  • what makes Adelaide Oval feel inclusive for staff and visitors, including breaks and the sensory space  Visit our website, Facebook, or Instagram for more resources.

    Autism with Sophie - Australia and New Zealand

  4. Oct 11

    Arthritis with Marc Williams, Arthritis Action

    To understand more about arthritis, we are joined by Marc Williams from Arthritis Action. With over 100 different forms, we focus on the main two, osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, and touch upon gout. We clear up myths about arthritis, from who it affects to what is actually happening inside the joints. Marc discusses the importance of recognising early warning signs to support positive changes that can help manage physical and mental symptoms. Arthritis as an umbrella termOsteoarthritis explained Rheumatoid arthritis explained “Wear and tear” Early symptoms Pain descriptions Hidden Disabilities Sunflower as a way to ask for help If you are concerned about any of the subjects discussed in the podcast, please follow up with your healthcare practitioner for support. For support: Arthritis Action - UKArthritis Society CanadaAmerican Arthritis FoundationArthritis IrelandArthritis Australia Hosted by Chantal Boyle, Hidden Disabilities Sunflower. If you enjoyed this podcast, please leave a rating and review. Find out more about the Sunflower by visiting the website hdsunflower.com Music by © Sandee Facy / Michael Saleta www.sandeefacy.com.au

    Arthritis with Marc Williams, Arthritis Action

  5. Sep 13

    Sickle Cell with Ayuk Besong Anne-Chantal and Dr Lewis Thomas

    This episode discusses living with sickle cell disease and its impacts. We are joined by SOuL Just Be co-editor Ayuk Besong Anne-Chantal and Dr Lewis Thomas to explore the complexities of living with sickle cell disease. Both guests bring their lived experience and professional expertise to shed light on the physical, emotional, and social challenges individuals with this condition face. What sickle cell is How sickle cell affects work, education, emotions and relationshipsWhat a sickle cell crisis is Recognising triggers Why sickle cell is global, and the link to malariaStigma and misinformationRacial biasThe helpful role of the Sunflower in preventing being misjudgedIf you are concerned about any of the subjects discussed in the podcast, please follow up with your healthcare practitioner for support. For support: Sickleverse Website: sickleverse.comInstagram: @sicklecellcoach, TikTok: @drlewisthomas, Facebook: Dr Lewis Thomas, YouTube: @sicklecellhelp, LinkedIn: Dr Lewis ThomasSOuL Just Be SOuL Just Be E-magLinkedIn @A&A Consulting and Engineering servicesYouTube sickle cell podcast @A&ConsultingServicesSCD Champs Game AppCharities The Sickle Cell Society - UKSickle Cell Society IrelandSickle Cell Disease Association of America Sickle Cell Disease Association of Canada  Hosted by Chantal Boyle, Hidden Disabilities Sunflower. If you enjoyed this podcast, please leave a rating and review. Find out more about the Sunflower by visiting the website hdsunflower.com Music by © Sandee Facy / Michael Saleta www.sandeefacy.com.au

    Sickle Cell with Ayuk Besong Anne-Chantal and Dr Lewis Thomas

  6. Sep 7

    Cancer and Lymphoedema With Nicole - Australia & New Zealand

    In this episode of Sunflower Conversations, James Dunn speaks with Nicole Quinlan about her journey living with a non-visible disability following a life-changing cancer diagnosis. Nicole shares her experience of being dismissed by healthcare professionals, advocating for answers, navigating treatment and living with lymphedema, while highlighting the importance of kindness and understanding.  • noticing a rapid physical change after childbirth and trusting your instincts  • being repeatedly dismissed in primary care and persisting until answers arrive  • managing lymphedema day to day with pain, swelling triggers, and practical tools  • learning how kindness from clinicians and strangers can change everything  • discovering the Hidden Disability Sunflower and reducing judgement in public spaces  Visit our website, Facebook, or Instagram for more resources.

    Cancer and Lymphoedema With Nicole - Australia & New Zealand

  7. Aug 9

    FGM/C Survivors with Huda Mohammed, Vavengers

    Content warning: This podcast episode discusses female genital mutilation and cutting (FGM/C), including its physical, emotional, and psychological impacts. Some listeners may find this content distressing. Listener discretion is advised. If you have been affected by the issues discussed, please consider seeking support from a healthcare professional. In this episode, Huda Mohammed, who is an FGM Specialist and Pelvic Health Midwife from the charity Vavengers, discusses the Impact of FGM on Women's Health. Women who have undergone FGM often face a myriad of health complications that can affect them throughout their lives. We discuss: Physical Pain: Chronic pain and discomfort during intercourse, menstrual cycles, and childbirth.Psychological Trauma: Many women report feelings of trauma, anxiety, and depression related to their experiences with FGM.Infections and Complications: Increased risk of urinary tract infections, complications during childbirth, and infertility issues. For support: Vavengers - UKAction to End FGM/C - Global Hosted by Chantal Boyle, Hidden Disabilities Sunflower. If you enjoyed this podcast, please leave a rating and review. Find out more about the Sunflower by visiting the website hdsunflower.com Music by © Sandee Facy / Michael Saleta www.sandeefacy.com.au

    FGM/C Survivors with Huda Mohammed, Vavengers

  8. Aug 9

    FGM/C with Sema Gornall, Vavengers

    Content warning: This podcast episode discusses female genital mutilation and cutting (FGM/C), including its physical, emotional, and psychological impacts. Some listeners may find this content distressing. Listener discretion is advised. If you have been affected by the issues discussed, please consider seeking support from a healthcare professional. We talk with Sema Gornell, the charity Vavenger's CEO, about one of the biggest misconceptions surrounding FGM/C: that it is a medical necessity. In reality, there are no health benefits to the practice; rather, it can lead to severe physical and psychological harm. Sema points out that the female genitalia is one of the most sensitive areas of the body, containing over 10,000 nerve endings. The removal or alteration of this area can result in lifelong complications, including chronic pain, reproductive issues, and mental health struggles. We also challenge the myths that stop progress. FGM is not “just culture”, and it is not a private issue that communities are comfortable with. Sema explains how demand and misogynistic norms shape expectations of women’s bodies, and why men and boys must be champions if we want prevention to work. For support: Vavengers - UKAction to End FGM/C - GlobalHosted by Chantal Boyle, Hidden Disabilities Sunflower. If you enjoyed this podcast, please leave a rating and review. Find out more about the Sunflower by visiting the website hdsunflower.com Music by © Sandee Facy / Michael Saleta www.sandeefacy.com.au

    FGM/C with Sema Gornall, Vavengers
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About

Welcome to the Sunflower Conversations, the podcast where we explore the experiences of disabled people with non-visible disabilities through the lens of the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower.   This is a space to hear authentic stories from disabled people navigating life with non-visible disabilities such as chronic illness, mental health conditions, neurodivergence, and more. While most episodes focus on lived experience, we also feature occasional insights from experts in healthcare, accessibility, and inclusion.   Whether you or someone you care about wears the Sunflower, our conversations aim to raise awareness, build understanding, and help create a more inclusive and compassionate world.   Empowering voices. Raising awareness. Challenging assumptions - one conversation at a time.

Information

  • Creator
    Hidden Disabilities Sunflower
  • Years Active
    2021 - 2026
  • Episodes
    160
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 The Sunflower Conversations
  • Show Website
    The Sunflower Conversations

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