Shows
Differently BrainedPublic Demand Avoidance: Autonomy and Care with Frances McCaffertyIn this episode, Jacinta and Lachlan chat with occupational therapist and neurodiversity advocate Frances McCafferty about PDA (Pathological Demand Avoidance), autonomy, and what it means to create truly neurodiversity-affirming spaces. Frances, who founded Embrace Neurodiversity with her husband, shares her personal perspective as an autistic PDAer, what PDA actually feels like from the inside, how demands can show up in surprising ways, and why safety and choice matter so much. Frances talks about how she balances her roles as a peer researcher, therapist, and advocate — and how we, at large, can all do better to support PDAers at home, scho...2025-07-1636 minDifferently BrainedNeuroqueer Histories: Art, Identity & the Power of Representation with Drew PettiferThis week Jacinta and Lachlan talk to artist and academic Drew Pettifer. As an austistic ADHDer, Drew chats about growing up queer and neurodivergent, finding connection through creativity, and why telling overlooked stories—especially queer ones—matters so much (as well as the intersections between queer identity and neurodivergent identity).
It's a fascinating interview and was a pleasure talking with Drew. You're bound to learn something along the way!
You can find Drew's website here, as well as his RMIT profile here.
Resources:
Dr. Alison Bennett: website, RMIT profile, "Queering the Paradi...2025-07-0249 minDifferently BrainedSnuggle up with Cozy GamingIt's getting colder out there, listeners, so why not curl up with an episode of Differently Brained and a cozy video game?
Lachlan and Jacinta chat about what a cozy game is (and what it isn't), how they help us regulate and feel safe and calm, and some recommendations for you to try out.
Resources:
Gaming statistics in Australia - Australia Plays 2023 Report - Interactive Games and Entertainment Association
Reuters article - Cozy comfort: new research backs up what games have thought for years: video games can be an antidote...2025-06-1155 minDifferently BrainedDungeons and Dragons and Differently Brained (oh my!): Tabletop Roleplaying Games with Jess C Wheatley & Declan NathanYou must listen to this podcast episode before venturing forth!
Gather one and all and listen as Lachlan interviews Jess C. Wheatley and Declan Nathan about a hobby that is growing seemingly exponentially in popularity and accessibility - Dungeons and Dragons (or, more broadly, tabletop roleplaying games).
We discuss how these games have helped people to express their creativity, explore their personalities, develop social skills and provide a safe space for many neurodivergent folks.
BIOGRAPHIES:
Declan Nathan
Declan has been dealing with ASD (Autism Spectrum Disorder) and ADHD for his entire life...2025-05-281h 13Differently BrainedReframing Success: Rejoicing in Rejection with Alaina DeanWriter Alaina Dean joins Jacinta and Lachlan in "the studio" to talk about her approach to literary rejections. She has been undertaking a years long project to get her writing out to as many publications as possible and, in the meantime, accrue 100 rejections!
Somehow Alaina managed to find a secret cheat code that allows her to re-frame what it means to succeed. Listen to find out!
Resources:
https://www.instagram.com/alainaddream/?hl=en
https://www.smh.com.au/lifestyle/life-and-relationships/alaina-is-aiming-for-100-rejections-she-says-we-should-all-embrace-our-failures-20250402-p5logt.html
https://lithub.com/why-you-should-aim-for-100...2025-05-1445 minDifferently BrainedSmartphones: Keep 'em or Dump 'em? Part 2Welcome back to the Differently Brained soapbox! We have started releasing these on a fortnightly basis, but it seems right to share this one with you all right off the back of part 1.
We hope you didn't actually dump your smartphones after listening to the last episode. Especially because in this one Jacinta and Lachlan discuss how they might actually be, you know, kinda good for mental health. Maybe? Just a little?
From accessibility, sensory regulation, and connecting to people when you feel isolated - many of these things are made so much easier with smartphones.
Le...2025-05-0744 minDifferently BrainedSmartphones: Keep 'em or Dump 'em? Part 1It's the 21st Century and Smartphones are commonplace. Perhaps TOO commonplace!
In part one of this "deep dive" (into their own personal relationships with smartphones), Jacinta and Lachlan chat about just how much smartphones suck and what they do to their mental health.
But we like to be fair (and balanced) at Differently Brained), so make sure to tune in next time for counterarguments to our own arguments.
And if you're listening to the episode on your smartphone, wait until after you have finished listening before dumping it!
2025-04-3036 minDifferently BrainedDoomscrolling: The Brain on Bad NewsThis is fine. Everything is fine.
Doomscrolling -- the very contemporary phenomenon that so many of us just can help but fall victim to!
Jacinta and Lachlan chat about what Doomscrolling is, why we do it, what it does to the brain, and maybe how we can mitigate it.
RESOURCES:
Mayo Clinic Article: Doomscrolling: Stop the scroll, protect your mental health - Alisa Bowman
Wired Article: How to Stop Doomscrolling—With Psychology - Kenneth R Rosen
Sharma B., Lee, S. S., & Johnson, B. K. (2022). The Dark at the End of the Tun...2025-04-1742 minDifferently BrainedSomeone like Clem Bastow & Jo CaseSorry for the delay with this one!
Today, Jacinta and Lachlan are joined by two guests, the inimitable Clem Bastow and Jo Case!
They have just released a beautiful new anthology titled Someone Like Me, which showcases works of creative nonfiction and memoir of Autistic women and gender-diverse people.
It was a pleasure to chat with them, and we hope to have them back on the show some day!
Resources:
Clem's Bio
Jo's Bio
Blindboy Podcast (Episode featuring Paddy Considine)
...2025-03-2249 minDifferently BrainedAttention Surplus Hyperactivity Awesomeness with Georgia Zentrich, the ADHD EducatorAre you in need of some education on ADHD? Or perhaps some advocacy and youth work? Or maybe even a DJ for your event?
Well look no further - in today's episode Jacinta talks to Georgia Zentrich, The ADHD Educator.
They discuss ADHD stigma, managing schedules, the challenges posed by the mental health care system, and more (including DJing)
Georgia has an Instagram
And you can find the resources mentioned in the episode below.
REFERENCES:
It's A Lot Podcast with Abby Chatfield
Interview with G-Flip
William Dodson - In...2025-03-0452 minDifferently BrainedNeuroTrip: Jacinta's travels in EuropeThis one is a bit late, apologies all!
In today's episode, Jacinta tells us all about her recent journey through Europe. How did it affect her? How can neurodivergent people prepare themselves for travel? Was it worth it? Are Jacinta and Lachlan the most beautiful singers you've ever heard?
Jump aboard and find out!
2025-02-1857 minDifferently BrainedThe Cold Truth about tech, anxiety and writing with Ashley Kalagian BluntJoin us in welcoming back Ashley Kalagian Blunt - author, podcaster and friend of the show.
In this episode we chat about her brand new book, 'Cold Truth', a tech-noir crime thriller. The conversation delves into the writing process, cybersecurity, technology anxiety, crypto-currency warnings, and more!
ASHLEY'S BOOKS:
COLD TRUTH — Ashley Kalagian Blunt
DARK MODE — Ashley Kalagian Blunt
HOW TO BE AUSTRALIAN — Ashley Kalagian Blunt
MY NAME IS REVENGE — Ashley Kalagian Blunt
Also, check out the podcast James and Ashley Stay at Home
REFER...2025-01-2858 minDifferently BrainedWelcome to Season 3! Word of the Year 2025It's a new year, friends, and a brand new season of Differently Brained! We're really excited to get back into the swing of things and give you all a year's worth of podcast goodness with different brains aplenty.
Just like in 2024 we've come up with two new 'guiding words/intentions' for 2025 (No Spoilers as to what we chose, you'll just have to listen!)
Welcome back, y'all, we missed you!
REFERENCED IN THE SHOW:
'Not Perfect' by Tim Minchin
9 Life Lessons - Tim Minchin UWA Address
'You Don't Ha...2025-01-2142 minDifferently BrainedLachlan's 2024 Wrapped: Salty, Disappointing, HopefulWho's that guy? Who's that guy? It's Rutho!
Welcome to the second of our wrap up episodes for 2024. This time, Lachlan looks back on the year and his intention of "RECALIBRATING".
Some of the resources mentioned:
The Pulling | Book | Scribe Publications (Adele's Book)
WISE Employment | Disability Employment Services | Workforce Australia | NDIS
Watch BEEF | Netflix Official Site
Lana Eileen (@lana.eileen.art) • Instagram photos and videos | Spotify Profile
2024-12-1147 minDifferently BrainedJacinta's 2024 Wrapped: Gloomy, vibrant shenanigansWe're back baybeeeeeeee!
And not a moment too soon (considering the end of the year is hurtling towards us).
In this, our first of two wrap-up episodes, Jacinta reflects on the year that was. Has she, indeed, "BUILT"?
Some of the resources mentioned:
The Pulling | Book | Scribe Publications (Adele's Book)
Simply Happy Organisation - Narelle King - Professional Organiser - Yoga Teacher
Candles – Lavender Moon Candle Co
Mel Watson - Speaker, Mentor, Burnout & HR Expert
2024-12-0655 minDifferently BrainedRepresentations and Resources SUPERCUT!Okay, we know, this one is a bit late and hastily edited, but nevertheless it is here!
A supercut of many of our guest episodes from series 1 of Differently Brained sharing their favourite resources and representations dealing with mental health and neurodivergence.
Of course, if you want something more comprehensive, do go back and listen to the full episodes.
In speaking order, the guests you will hear from are:
Orion Kelly
Kay Kerr
Matt Bruyninckx
Mel Watson
Min Lou
Kylie Maslen
S...2024-10-2943 minDifferently BrainedSide effects may include...DISCLAIMER:
As always it's important to state that we at Differently Brained are not medical professionals, and this episode contains our personal testimonies of being on medication. Furthermore, we have always been staunchly in favour of treatment for mental illness. The experiences in this episode have been shared as a means of conversation, and not for the dissemination of advice or education.
_________________
Sometimes the best things in life come with terms and conditions.
Jacinta and Lachlan chat about their own experiences of side effects of taking medication.
And if you're reading this...2024-10-1519 minDifferently BrainedJacinta's NDIS TroublesDISCLAIMER: All information presented in this episode was correct at the time of recording in July of 2024. Since then, some circumstances have changed, namely the Minister for the NDIS.
____________________________________________________________
The NDIS (National Disability Insurance Scheme) - great idea, almost consistently failing in practice.
There are a lot of folks who have had issues trying to get on to the NDIS, receive their entitlements, and generally not feel like they're a 'burden' on society.
Jacinta is one such individual, and this week Lachlan asks her about the gauntlet she ran to try to be approved...2024-10-0839 minDifferently BrainedIdioms are not everyone's cup of teaIt's been discussed before that some neurodivergent folks don't really vibe with idioms. Either they don't understand them, find them frustrating and trite, or don't parse the context together.
Jacinta is one such neurodivergent person with this particular pet peeve (is that an idiom?) and Lachlan tests out some of the more egregious examples on her to figure out why.
2024-10-0236 minDifferently BrainedTop 3 Favourite Rewatches (for when we need a bit of comfort)One of our favourite things to ask our guests on Differently Brained is what resources or media show quality representation.
This time, however, the discussion is all about what shows or movies make us feel comfy and a bit more regulated.
In this very short episode you'll hear Jacinta and Lachlan talk about the things they never get tired of watching over and over and over and over and over again.
2024-09-2507 minDifferently BrainedCin City2024-09-1851 minDifferently BrainedPodcasting is Weird - a "Meta-episode"It's been roughly 18 months since we started this podcast, and we thought it'd be high time to reflect on the process, what we've learned and what we've struggled with. A behind-the -scenes look at Differently Brained.
But more than that, this is an episode in which we hype each other.
Love us.
Love our show.
2024-09-0449 minDifferently BrainedNeurodiverging with the one and only (literally) Beau WindonBeau Windon is a neurodivergent author of Wiradjuri heritage who, in a first for Differently Brained, joined us in person for a chat!
Beau talks to us about his identity, the creative process as a neurodivergent writer, and his PhD focus on Neurodivergent Aesthetics.
Check out Beau's website, containing his writing, here!
Resources:
Neuroqueer Heresies by Dr. Nick Walker
Phil Smith
2024-08-2846 minDifferently BrainedMichael Coles Pt.2 - Schooling, Parenthood, and AutismMichael is back this week to talk about his 6-year-old daughter who also has an autism diagnosis.
He shares the challenges she faced in the schooling system, and the journey to finding a supportive and accommodating school.
2024-08-2121 minDifferently BrainedMichael from The Deep Dive podcast2024-08-1337 minDifferently BrainedBye bye July2024-08-1237 minDifferently BrainedFalling for Hayley Scrivenor2024-08-061h 00Differently BrainedTop 3 things we 'can't live without'Here at Differently Brained we sometimes make hyperbolic statements.
This time is different! Jacinta and Lachlan list their top 3 things (it's a broad category) they can't live without as neurodivergent/mentally ill individuals.
It's a short episode this week, but a fun one!
Tell us your top three!
2024-07-3109 minDifferently BrainedBernie thinks in boxes and Jess toots her Horn2024-07-2339 minDifferently BrainedRutho in the Big CityThis episode is all about a small rural city boy making his way in the big smoke of Melbourne.
Lachlan and Jacinta record for the first time in person and talk all about what the trip has been like so far.
Talking points:
-Public Transport
-Grace Cummings
-Cold Weather
-Smiling and waving at people
2024-07-1740 minDifferently BrainedJacinta Dietrich is, like, so hot (desk) right nowFor those who don't know, Jacinta Dietrich, 50% of the hosting apparatus comprising 'Differently Brained' is a writer. Not only that, she's writing a YA Novel! But wait, there's more -- she was also awarded a fellowship at The Wheeler Centre in Melbourne to use one of their hot desks to work on her novel.
In this episode, we chat about that experience, how it accommodated both creatively and neurologically, and generally just hype Jacinta - join us!
How to find us
Follow us on Instagram
Join our private Facebook community
Follow us on T...2024-07-0228 minDifferently BrainedHey, June - Community EpisodeAs the month of June draws to a close and the year relentlessly lurches forward, Jacinta and Lachlan look back at their wins and losses of the month, as well as the wins and losses of the community.
Other discussion points include:
-Substituting ingredients in recipes
-New Zealand Souvenirs
-Pitching a new segment (with a bad name)
2024-06-2636 minDifferently BrainedJess is back with her new zebra diagnosis2024-06-1258 minDifferently BrainedSelf-compassion, self-advocacy and neuroaffirming psychology2024-06-0436 minDifferently BrainedTell your friends, tell your enemies2024-05-3133 minDifferently BrainedAlex Creece has a potty mouth2024-05-2850 minDifferently BrainedMother's Day with Paula (Mumma P, That Lady Over There, Jacinta's Mum!)We know, we're a bit late to the party with this one!
In this episode we chat with Paula, otherwise known in certain circles as Jacinta's mum!
Paula tells us about C-PTSD and her wonderful work as a Lived Experience Worker.
2024-05-2255 minDifferently BrainedUnmasking, Bird Psycho and that probbo guy: Unpacking Heartbreak High season 22024-04-3053 minDifferently BrainedDon’t go breaking my heart: Heartbreak High S12024-04-2349 minDifferently BrainedSilly and stupid with Molly Sokhom2024-04-1840 minDifferently BrainedLet’s get this party started! But with all my accessibility supports and self-advocacy needs met please2024-04-1050 minDifferently BrainedIt’s Brittany b****h! Research, selective eating and food mods with Brittany St John2024-04-0238 minDifferently BrainedDifferently Brained goes to the dentist with Dr. Romi FriedJacinta and Lachlan chat with Dr. Romi Fried, an autistic dentist passionate about making dentistry more accessible!
This is Dr Trudy Lin who I mentioned during our chat:
https://trudysmile.net/about-dr-trudy-lin/
& as promised, some accounts that I'd recommend from the gram (in the dental-sphere) -->
https://www.instagram.com/drbethanystoothtales?igsh=YXk5Z21nbGJnMDhv
https://www.instagram.com/_the_tooth_fairy_?igsh=NG12eTdycjlpaHE5
and mine (@theneurodivergentdentist)
and I mentioned this one when I spoke about the pie chart
2024-03-2843 minDifferently BrainedTwinkle twinkle little star, how our sleep is often blah2024-03-1954 minDifferently BrainedNarelle King is the queen of decluttering2024-03-1341 minDifferently BrainedSimon McCarthy is figuring things outRegional journalist and writer Simon McCarthy drops by to talk about anxiety, work, and trying to figure out his different brain.
Simon McCarthy is a journalist working at the Newcastle Herald in NSW. He writes news, features and produces video and multimedia for the Herald and the Weekender magazine, and he contributes regularly to the Newcastle Herald's daily Topics column. He is a photographer, writer, and co-creator of the Toohey's News Podcast. He's also one of the Differently Brained team's oldest friends.
Check out some of the things we mention in this week's episode:
...2024-03-0648 minDifferently BrainedAdd your mums, add your dads: Feb community wrap2024-03-0545 minDifferently BrainedEncore: Jordon Steele-John gives us the lowdown on the ADHD Senate ReportAnother one from the archive! Jacinta and Lachlan were lucky enough to chat with Greens senator Jordon Steele-John not once but twice last year!
In this episode, the ins and outs of the ADHD Senate Report are discussed (and despite the findings, ADHDers are still facing a slew of issues in 2024!)
How to find us
Follow us on Instagram
Join our private Facebook community
Follow us on Twitter
Check out our website
Shoot us an email to differentlybrainedpodcast@gmail.com
Follow our personal stuff - @jacintadietrich & @ruthooftheloch
About the podc...2024-02-2752 minDifferently BrainedEncore: Kay Kerr's Love & Autism will make you cry (in a good way)You may have heard this one before - or maybe not! Either way, it's well worth a listen.
In one of our most popular episodes we sat down to chat with Kay Kerr about her book 'Love & Autism' which, given the timing (a week after Valentine's Day) seemed like a good reason to do an encore.
Original Episode Description:
In this episode, Jacinta and Lachlan interview Kay Kerr about her new book Love & Autism. Love & Autism presents an uplifting celebration of neurodivergent love, the search for it and a deeper look into the...2024-02-2157 minDifferently BrainedHearts & minds: navigating Valentine's DayEpisode description
Valentine's Day is...a lot. Whether you love it, hate it, or are somewhere in between, it's pretty firmly in the collective culture!
Jacinta and Lachlan chat about their thoughts on Valentine's day and give a couple of ideas on how to make it more fun/less daunting/more tolerable!
How to find us
Join our private Facebook community
Follow us on Instagram
Follow us on Twitter
Check out our website
Shoot us an email to differentlybrainedpodcast@gmail.com
Follow our personal stuff - @jacintadietrich & @ruthooftheloch
Abo...2024-02-1451 minDifferently BrainedCommunity catch up2024-02-1230 minDifferently BrainedMoney money money with Nicole Haddow2024-02-0634 minDifferently BrainedShame, secrecy and the private world of pulling with Adele Dumont
About our guest
Adele Dumont is an Australian writer and critic. Her work has appeared in Griffith Review, Meanjin, Southerly, ABR, and Sydney Review of Books. Adele’s first book, No Man is an Island, is an account of her experiences teaching English to asylum seekers in detention. Her second book, The Pulling, is a work of memoir charting her experience of trichotillomania.
Adele's Twitter
Adele's website
Representations
Bezoar by Guadalupe Nettel, translated by Rahul Bery
Resources
TrichStop website
TLC Foundation for Body-Focused Repetitive Behavio...2024-01-3045 minDifferently BrainedRest is best with Laura Pettenuzzo
About our guest
Laura is a disabled writer and bibliophile living on Wurundjeri land. She has a Masters of Professional psychology and works as a plain language and Easy English content writer. Her words have appeared in places such The Age, Kill Your Darlings, ArtsHub, ABC Everyday and The Guardian. She is also a member of the minister-appointed Victorian Disability Advisory Council.
Representations
Palestinian writers
Songs of the Living and the Dead
Cerebral Palsy
The Amazing Edie Eckhart by Rosie Jones
The Heights
Bridie McKim...2024-01-2353 minDifferently BrainedSetting your new year intentionsAre you halfway through January and already tanked your new year resolutions? Or maybe you don't make them but feel a little adrift without a focus come midyear? Then we have the episode for you. Jacinta and Lachlan sit down and chat about why they are making a 2024 intention and how they picked theirs.
Representations
Resources
How to find us
Follow us on Instagram
Join our private Facebook community
Follow us on Twitter
Check out our website
Shoot us an email to differen...2024-01-1641 minDifferently BrainedThat’s a wrap, part two: Lachlan reflects on 2023Jacinta comes with a surprise list of questions for Lachlan to chat about 2023, starting a podcast, how it all went and what he hopes next year brings.
How to find us
Follow us on Instagram
Join our private Facebook community
Follow us on Twitter
Check out our website
Shoot us an email to differentlybrainedpodcast@gmail.com
Follow our personal stuff - @jacintadietrich & @ruthooftheloch
About the podcast
Differently Brained shares the opinions of individuals and does not consider your personal circumstances. Differently Brained exists purely for information purposes and should not...2023-12-2037 minDifferently BrainedThat’s a wrap, part one: Jacinta reflects on 2023Lachlan comes with a surprise list of questions for JD to chat about 2023, starting a podcast, how it all went and what she hopes next year brings.
How to find us
Follow us on Instagram
Join our private Facebook community
Follow us on Twitter
Check out our website
Shoot us an email to differentlybrainedpodcast@gmail.com
Follow our personal stuff - @jacintadietrich & @ruthooftheloch
About the podcast
Differently Brained shares the opinions of individuals and does not consider your personal circumstances. Differently Brained exists purely for information purposes and should not...2023-12-1238 minDifferently BrainedThe ADHD Senate report is out! with Jordon Steele-JohnThe ADHD Senate report is out! We were lucky enough to have Senator Jordon Steele-John back again to give us the highlights, the lowlights and all the info on what we do next.
About our guest
Representations & resources
How to find us
Follow us on Instagram
Join our private Facebook community
Follow us on Twitter
Check out our website
Shoot us an email to differentlybrainedpodcast@gmail.com
Follow our personal stuff - @jacintadietrich & @ruthooftheloch
About the podcast
Diff...2023-11-2951 minDifferently BrainedWriting all the feelings with Davina Bell
About our guest
Davina Bell is a writer for young people of many ages, and a children’s book editor. Her award-winning and Notable picture books include All the Ways To Be Smart, All of the Factors of Why I Love Tractors, Under the Love Umbrella, The Underwater Fancy-Dress Parade, Oh Albert! and Hattie Helps Out. She is also the author of the Alice books in Penguin’s best-selling Our Australian Girl series, the Lemonade Jones series, and the Corner Park Clubhouse series. Her debut young adult novel, The End of the World Is Bigg...2023-11-2147 minDifferently BrainedSix challenges with mindfulness and gratitude and how to beat themJacinta and Lachlan are both terrible at mindfulness and gratitude. Not because they aren't grateful for a whole bunch of stuff, or because they think mindfulness doesn't work. In fact, they know that science proves that both these practices can help mental and physical health. But still, they really suck at keeping it up and would gamble that plenty of other people are in a similar boat. So they sat down to compare notes about all the challenges they face around these topics and how they might be able to overcome them to be healthier and happier in 2024.
...2023-11-1353 minDifferently BrainedExcerpt of This Is Us Now by Jacinta DietrichIn this episode we give you a sneak peek of Jacinta's novella, This Is Us Now, including a short reading from the beginning.
About our guest
Jacinta Dietrich is a writer and editor who lives on Wurundjeri country in Naarm (Melbourne, Victoria). Jacinta is a wizard with the letters in more ways than one - she is autistic with ADHD for a bit of extra flavour. She also has a family history of suicidality, depression and post-traumatic stress disorder.
Representations & resources
Purchase This Is Us Now
Jacinta's website
Jac...2023-11-0606 minDifferently BrainedNurse SarahWe have our first ever neurodivergent nurse on the show! Sarah tells us all about her line of work as a district nurse and her experiences as a woman with autism and ADHD. We talk about 'finding your area' in life and work (which Sarah has thankfully done) to maintain a good level of self care. Easier said than done!
One thing that constantly comes up when discussing neurodivergence is the concept of empathy, and the misconception that it's lacking in autistic people. Sarah's work as a district nurse, her desire to provide a voice for other...2023-10-3059 minDifferently BrainedRest, spiderwebs, burnout and laziness lies with Mel WatsonIn this episode, Jacinta and Lachlan chat with Mel Watson. We chat about a whole whack of topics from how Mel thinks more in spiderwebs rather than lines, how rest is essential and if you don't think so, your body will make you rest. We also chat about Mel's experience with burnout and how she is trying to help other women from experiencing burnout themselves.
About our guest
Mel Watson has a very clear message: self care matters, and if you don't believe that, eventually your brain and body will prove it to yo...2023-10-1652 minDifferently BrainedAlicia Elliott, author of And Then She FellIn this episode, Jacinta and Lachlan chat with author Alicia Elliott. We discuss Alicia's childhood and how her mother's mental health informed her perspectives and her own understanding around mental health and illness. We also chat about mental health and culture, femininity and motherhood, psychosis and mania, and of course, Alicia's new book, And Then She Fell.
Also, we have a little favour to ask of you, dear listener. We would love it if you would vote for us in the Australian Podcast Awards listener choice category. Just jump onto the website https://www.australianpodcastawards.c...2023-10-0948 minDifferently BrainedGet the goss on trichotillomaniaIn this episode, Jacinta and Lachlan talk about trichotillomania and how it impacts Lachlan's life.
Also, we have a little favour to ask of you, dear listener. We would love it if you would vote for us in the Australian Podcast Awards listener choice category. Just jump onto the website https://www.australianpodcastawards.com/voting and search for Differently Brained. You’ll need to pop in your name and email address and then confirm your vote with the email you’ll receive. In return you will receive our eternal gratitude and the little boost of a job well...2023-10-0234 minDifferently BrainedChronic illness and mental healthIn this episode, Jacinta and Lachlan talk about Jacinta's latest Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) flare and how it has impacted her mental health.
Also, we have a little favour to ask of you, dear listener. We would love it if you would vote for us in the Australian Podcast Awards listener choice category. Just jump onto the website https://www.australianpodcastawards.com/voting and search for Differently Brained. You’ll need to pop in your name and email address and then confirm your vote with the email you’ll receive. In return you will receive our eternal grati...2023-09-2545 minDifferently BrainedShattering the rose-tinted perspective: the reality of diagnosis in the late 90s with Jess Flint and Bonnie FlintIn this episode, Jacinta and Lachlan chat with Jess Flint and her mum Bonnie. The team and their guests discuss the diagnostic process for Jess and her family, the challenges and stigma they faced during schooling and Jess's exciting inclusion in Kay Kerr's wonderful Love & Autism.
About our guest
Episode partner
Representations & resources
You can purchase all of these book titles and more from your local independent bookseller or Booktopia. Please note by purchasing through these Booktopia partner links we are provid...2023-09-181h 01Differently BrainedAshley Kalagian Blunt, author of Dark Mode and co-host of James and Ashley Stay at HomeIn this episode, Jacinta and Lachlan chat with author and podcaster Ashley Kalagian Blunt. The trio chat about Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, co-occurring mental health challenges and the lengths Ashley has reached to avoid going outside in the dark.
About our guest
Ashley Kalagian Blunt is the bestselling author of Dark Mode, a psychological thriller. Her previous books are How to Be Australian (2020), a memoir, and My Name Is Revenge (2019), a thriller novella and collected essays. My Name is Revenge was shortlisted for the 2019 Woollahra Digital Literary Awards and was a finalist in the 2018 Ca...2023-09-0457 minDifferently BrainedAmanda Tattersall, host of the ChangeMakers podcastIn this episode, Jacinta and Lachlan chat with Amanda Tattersall. They talk about bipolar, psychosis and medication, and also discuss the way mental health is stigmatised in wider society and individualised as the problems of a sole person rather than a community and social issue.
About our guest
Amanda Tattersall is an Associate Professor of Practice with the Sydney Policy Lab and School of Geosciences, bringing decades of change making experience to the University. She is the founder of some of Australia’s most interesting social change organisations, including the Sydney Alliance and GetUp...2023-08-2849 minDifferently BrainedMore with Samuel Leighton-Dore, author of Wow It’s All A LotIn this episode, Jacinta and Lachlan ask more questions of Samuel Leighton-Dore.
About our guest
Samuel Leighton-Dore is a visual artist and writer. His book How To Be A Big Strong Man brought accessibility and humour to topics of masculinity and mental health. Samuel has explored these themes at great length, particularly as experienced by members of the LGBTIQ+ community across his multifaceted creative practice, winning Visual Artist of the Year at the 2019 Honour Awards and producing work for organisations including Equality Australia, ACON, Twenty10, ReachOut and, most recently, writing and producing a se...2023-08-2132 minDifferently BrainedSamuel Leighton-Dore, author of Wow It’s All A LotIn this episode, Jacinta and Lachlan chat with Samuel Leighton-Dore.
About our guest
Samuel Leighton-Dore is a visual artist and writer. His book How To Be A Big Strong Man brought accessibility and humour to topics of masculinity and mental health. Samuel has explored these themes at great length, particularly as experienced by members of the LGBTIQ+ community across his multifaceted creative practice, winning Visual Artist of the Year at the 2019 Honour Awards and producing work for organisations including Equality Australia, ACON, Twenty10, ReachOut and, most recently, writing and producing a series of sh...2023-08-1449 minDifferently BrainedNeurodivergence, politics and the NDIS with Jordon Steele-JohnIn this episode, Jacinta and Lachlan continue their interview with Senator Jordon Steele-John. They delve into all things NDIS: how it should work, how it currently works (or doesn't) and what needs to change to make it better to actually support neurodivergent and disabled folks.
About our guest
Jordan Steele-John is one of your Greens Senators for WA. He has recently led the charge in pushing for the ADHD Inquiry in Federal Parliament and is the Greens spokesperson for disability rights, health and mental health.
Episode partner
Eat...2023-07-3125 minDifferently BrainedNeurodivergence and the ADHD Inquiry with Jordon Steele-JohnIn this episode, Jacinta and Lachlan interview Senator Jordon Steele-John. We quiz Jordon on the ADHD Senate Inquiry and how that came about, how the response for submissions has far exceeded expectations (yay community!) and where we go from here.
About our guest
Jordan Steele-John is one of your Greens Senators for WA. He has recently led the charge in pushing for the ADHD Inquiry in Federal Parliament and is the Greens spokesperson for disability rights, health and mental health.
Episode partner
Eating healthy used to be a s...2023-07-2443 minDifferently BrainedVote for us in the 18th Annual People’s Choice Podcast AwardsWe have some exciting news to share! Differently Brained has been included in the 18th Annual People's Choice Podcast Awards! We are included in the Health category of course and also in The Adam Curry People's Choice Awards.
It would mean the world to us if you voted for our show here and shared it with your family, friends, enemies and acquaintances to boost us into the shortlist! Nominations are open until July 31st so please get in quick!
You will need to sign up which I know is a little annoying but please consider it (and...2023-07-2102 minDifferently BrainedClaudia Barriga-Larrivière, Director of People & Culture at Sendle AustraliaIn this episode, Jacinta and Lachlan interview Claudia Barriga-Larrivière. Claudia Barriga-Larrivière is Sendle Australia's Director of People & Culture. She also lives with dyslexia and anxiety.
About our guest
Claudia Barriga-Larrivière is Sendle Australia's Director of People & Culture. She also lives with dyslexia — which is why she's made it her life's work to champion neurodiversity in the workplace (as well as in society more broadly). In her current role, she designs end-to-end solutions in the form of products and services for the Sendle team, team leads and executive team. She strongly believe...2023-07-171h 03Differently BrainedAlissa Knight, clinical psychologist and director of The Calming Suite PsychologyIn this episode, Jacinta and Lachlan interview Dr Alissa Knight. Dr Alissa Knight is a clinical psychologist, researcher and founder of The Calming Suite. We discuss anxiety, perfectionism and mental health during the teen years. We also chat about disordered eating and binge drinking and the way these can sometimes go hand-in-hand. Finally we finish the conversation with a chat about self-care, balance and Alissa's amazing career.
About our guest
Dr Alissa Knight is a clinical psychologist, researcher and founder of The Calming Suite. Prior to becoming a psychologist, Alissa worked as a sc...2023-07-031h 00Differently BrainedA deep dive into Hey Lemonade with Elise McCannIn this episode, Jacinta and Lachlan interview Elise McCann, co-founder of Hey Lemonade. We ask Elise all the nosey questions we had about Hey Lemonade as an idea and an app - where the idea came from, how Elise and Lucy got it up and running and if they use their own pep talks when things get a little hard. We dig into the CSIRO's report and findings of the efficacy of the app and why it was so important to both Lucy and Elise to have writers and speakers from different walks of life involved in the app. 2023-06-2652 minDifferently BrainedSteph Liz Cuthbert, writer, editor, sensitivity reader and artistIn this episode, Jacinta and Lachlan interview Steph Cuthbert. Steph opens up about all things bipolar, alcoholism, routine, hypersexuality, sobriety and having more conversations.
About our guest
Steph Cuthbert is a writer, freelance editor, sensitivity reader, artist, wife and mother. She has bipolar disorder and is a co-facilitator of the Blue Mountains Bipolar Support Group. In her spare time Steph is an avid reader and volunteers at an art gallery.
Content warning
In this episode of Differently Brained we discuss bipolar disorder, depression, alcohol misuse and addiction and...2023-06-1939 minDifferently BrainedMin Lou, self-diagnosed autistic and non-binary transgender personIn this episode, Jacinta and Lachlan interview Min Lou. We discuss Min's experiences as an autistic person, what it was like studying psychology and how these degrees are still incredibly behind the times when it comes to understanding neurodivergence. We also chat about Min's family and cultural heritage, their non-binary identity, how they feel about self-identifying and the imposter syndrome that can come from trying to learn more about yourself.
About our guest
Min Lou is a self-diagnosed autistic and non-binary transgender individual who also struggles with depression and anxiety. They are a sec...2023-06-0557 minDifferently BrainedA deep dive into Kaboose with Michelle RidsdaleIn this episode, Jacinta and Lachlan interview Michelle Ridsdale, the founder of Kaboose, an organisation aiming to improve mental health and connectedness of the autistic and neurodiverse community through friendships and employment. They chat about where the idea for Kaboose came from, how Michelle got it up and running and why finding a community or our 'tribe' is so beneficial for our mental health and wellbeing.
About our guest
Michelle Ridsdale is the founder of Kaboose, an organisation aiming to improve mental health and connectedness of the autistic and neurodiverse community through friendships and...2023-05-2928 minDifferently BrainedKylie Maslen, author of Show Me Where It HurtsIn this episode, Jacinta and Lachlan interview Kylie Maslen. Kylie Maslen might have the longest list of diagnoses out of the guests we have interviewed so far which makes for an interesting and complex discussion.
We also share a podcast we have been listening to and loving, Beyond 6 Seconds.
About our guest
Kylie Maslen is a writer and critic whose cultural criticism, social commentary and critical essays have appeared in the Guardian, Meanjin, InDaily, Adelaide Review, Crikey, Money Magazine, The Shot, Kill Your Darlings and Junkee, among other outlets. Her first bo...2023-05-2254 minDifferently BrainedADHD Senate InquiryIn this episode, Jacinta and Lachlan discuss the ADHD Senate Inquiry and why it is important. We chat about statistics, the cost of having ADHD and the cost to the economy. But more importantly, we talk about why this Senate Inquiry is so important, how it could make a difference to the lives of ADHDers and how you can make a submission to fight for a better quality of life as an ADHDer.
Resources
ABS instagram
NDIS budget costs
The Australian Greens website
The Australian Greens survey results
Yellow Ladybugs collective submission survey
The Aus...2023-05-1531 minDifferently BrainedSuzanna Poredos, host of Always Angelic Aspie AliceIn this episode, Jacinta and Lachlan interview Suzanna Poredos. We chat about Suzanna discovering her autistic identity and how it helped her better understand herself. We also discuss her co-occuring health conditions and how they impact her level of support and daily life. We touch on meltdowns and shutdowns and what they are like for Suzanna, and as always we discuss the stigmas, misconceptions and representations of autism in society.
About our guest
Suzanna Poredos is an autistic woman based in Sydney, Australia. She is a guest blogger and socialite with The A Li...2023-05-0831 minDifferently BrainedKirk Cetinic, user experience designer, public speaker and neurodiversity advocateIn this episode, Jacinta and Lachlan interview Kirk Cetinic. We discuss Kirk's diagnosis journey as a child, his passion for design and improving user experiences. We also chat about Kirk's skills and experiences as a public speaker and autistic advocate. Finally, we chat about the representation of autistic people in the media and the stigmas and misconceptions around these topics.
About our guest
Kirk Cetinic is a user experience designer, public speaker and neurodiversity advocate. Kirk holds a Bachelor of Design (Communication Design) from Swinburne University of Technology and a Graduate Certificate in Us...2023-04-2449 minDifferently BrainedPersonal hygiene, grooming and self-careIn this episode, Jacinta and Lachlan discuss personal hygiene, grooming and self-care. This is something that both hosts struggle with (teeth brushing is the worst!) and something that we'd guess the neurodivergent community has issues with too (we've been tagged in many, many memes about showering). We also discuss how much harder these tasks are when you're not feeling your best or are facing mental health challenges.
Episode partners
We would like to thank A’kin for gifting us some of their amazing hair products to help with our own shower adventures. We were...2023-04-1752 minDifferently BrainedMatt Bruyninckx, Director of Divergent StudiosIn this episode, Jacinta and Lachlan interview Matt Bruyninckx. We discuss Matt's diagnosis journey, his new venture Divergent Studios and what a more accommodating arts industry looks like, as well as Matt's experience with workplace bullying and discrimination.
About our guest
Matt Bruyninckx is the director of Divergent Studios, as well as a seasoned actor, writer, and producer, who has worked in both the Screen and Music Industries. Since being diagnosed Autistic in 2019, Matt has directed his passion for the arts and creative expression towards advocacy for and education surrounding neurodiverse people within th...2023-04-1050 minDifferently BrainedKay Kerr, author of Love & AutismIn this episode, Jacinta and Lachlan interview Kay Kerr about her new book Love & Autism. Love & Autism presents an uplifting celebration of neurodivergent love, the search for it and a deeper look into the lives of autistic Australians. We chat to Kay about where the idea came from, the interview and drafting process, autistic affirmation and joy, and what she thinks lies ahead for the next generation of autistics.
About our guest
Kay Kerr is an autistic author and journalist from the Sunshine Coast, Queensland. Her debut novel Please Don’t Hug Me (2020) was...2023-03-2754 minDifferently BrainedExtra Orion Kelly, host of My Friend AutismJacinta and Lachlan speak to Orion Kelly about autism and parenting, raising neurodivergent and neurotypical children and making time for yourself.
About our guest
Orion Kelly is proudly Autistic. He is an Autistic advocate, consultant, keynote speaker, author, actor, host, YouTuber, podcaster and radio broadcaster based in Victoria, Australia. Orion hosts the podcasts My Friend Autism, A Different Brilliant, and Intensely Inquisitive. Plus, he has his own Autistic focused YouTube channel.
Representations & resources
Orion's YouTube channel
My Friend Autism
A Different Brilliant
Intensely Inquisitive
Heartbreak High and Chloe Hay...2023-03-2058 minDifferently BrainedBrandon Harvey, singer and TikTok sensationIn this episode, we chat to Brandon Harvey. We discuss anxiety, panic attacks, depression and seeking support from inside your family. We chat about intrusive or dark thoughts and suicidality, the misconceptions around not wanting to do life anymore and coping through disordered eating.
Content warning
In this episode of Differently Brained we discuss anxiety, depression, suicidality, panic attacks and disordered eating. Please feel free to skip this episode or reach out to medical professionals if it has brought anything up for you.
Representations & resources
Shane Koyczan's 'To Th...2023-03-1355 minDifferently BrainedNoise sensitivityIn this episode, Jacinta and Lachlan discuss noise sensitivity and how they each experience it.
Content warning
In this episode of Differently Brained we discuss minor self-harm. Please feel free to skip this episode or reach out to medical professionals if it has brought anything up for you.
Episode partners
We also want to thank Loop for kindly gifting us a full set of their earplugs. If you want to get yourself a set of Loop Earplugs, use our discount code DBXLOOP for 15% off your purchase. This su...2023-03-0646 minDifferently BrainedMiranda Luby, author of Sadie Starr’s Guide to Starting OverIn this episode, Jacinta and Lachlan interview Miranda Luby, author of Sadie Starr's Guide to Starting Over. They discuss Miranda's relationship with food and exercise, seeking help and support, managing perfectionism and moving beyond all-or-nothing and black-and-white thinking.
About our guest
Miranda Luby is an award-winning author, journalist and copywriter living on Victoria's Surf Coast. Her journalism appears in publications such as The Guardian, National Geographic, BBC Travel, and the New York Post. Her debut Text Prize-shortlisted young adult novel, Sadie Starr's Guide to Starting Over, is out now with Text Publishing.
...2023-02-2757 minDifferently BrainedKay Kerr, author of Please Don’t Hug Me and Social QueueIn this episode, Jacinta and Lachlan interview Kay Kerr, author of Please Don't Hug Me, Social Queue and Love & Autism. They discuss Kay's diagnosis journey, how she has made her house an autistic safe space and how she writes informed and sensitive autistic characters.
About our guest
Kay Kerr is an autistic author and journalist from the Sunshine Coast, Queensland. Her debut novel Please Don’t Hug Me (2020) was shortlisted for Book of the Year for Older Children at the Australian Book Industry Awards in 2021, and listed as a ‘Notable Book’ by the Children...2023-02-1352 minDifferently BrainedDani Vee, author of My EXTRAordinary Mum and My EPIC Dad!In this episode we have the absolute pleasure of talking to Dani Vee about her anxiety, her energy levels and how she's making slowing down a priority.
About our guest
Dani Vee is host of the popular literary podcast Words and Nerds. Dani is also a writer with her debut picture book My EXTRAordinary Mum, published by Larrikin House and Her My EPIC Dad! six picture book series and a short story in a crime fiction anthology are coming in 2023! Dani loves nothing more than reading Oscar Wilde with a cup of camomile tea...2023-01-3043 minDifferently BrainedOrion Kelly, host of My Friend AutismWe had so many questions for Orion Kelly that we couldn't possibly fit them into one. So please enjoy our bonus double episode focusing on autism and parenting.
Orion Kelly is proudly Autistic. He is an Autistic advocate, consultant, keynote speaker, author, actor, host, YouTuber, podcaster and radio broadcaster based in Victoria, Australia. Orion hosts the podcasts 'My Friend Autism', 'A Different Brilliant', and 'Intensely Inquisitive'. Plus, he has his own Autistic focused YouTube channel.
Jacinta and Lachlan speak to Orion Kelly about all things autism as he shares his diagnosis journey and li...2023-01-2359 minDifferently BrainedOrion Kelly, host of My Friend AutismJacinta and Lachlan speak to Orion Kelly about all things autism as he shares his diagnosis journey and lived experience.
About our guest
Orion Kelly is proudly Autistic. He is an Autistic advocate, consultant, keynote speaker, author, actor, host, YouTuber, podcaster and radio broadcaster based in Victoria, Australia. Orion hosts the podcasts My Friend Autism, A Different Brilliant, and Intensely Inquisitive. Plus, he has his own Autistic focused YouTube channel.
Content warning
In this episode of Differently Brained we discuss anxiety, depression and suicidality. Please feel free to...2023-01-161h 16Differently BrainedBeing an auDHDer with Jacinta Dietrich, co-host of Differently BrainedThe tables have turned and Lachlan interviews the other half of the Differently Brained team, Jacinta Dietrich. They talk about Jacinta's diagnosis process, the surprise of finding out she's an ADHDer as well as autistic, and her mental health generally.
About our guest
Jacinta Dietrich is a neurodivergent and bisexual writer, editor and podcaster based in Naarm, (Melbourne, Victoria). Jacinta is a wizard with the letters in more ways than one - she is autistic with ADHD for a bit of extra flavour. She also has a family history of suicidality, depression and po...2023-01-0250 minDifferently BrainedChatting bipolar, anxiety and mental health with Lachlan Rutherford, co-host of Differently BrainedWelcome to the first full episode of Differently Brained for Season 1, 2023! We shared a little bit about the DB team in our trailers, but we heard you loud and clear - you want to know more. So we are kicking the season off with an interview with the one and only Lachlan Rutherford. Lachlan shares his experiences with his mental health generally, and his diagnoses bipolar disorder, trichotillomania and generalised anxiety.
About our guest
Lachlan Rutherford is a writer and editor who lives on Bundjalung country (Lismore, Northern NSW). Lachlan is a master of...2023-01-0250 minDifferently BrainedLearn more about Differently BrainedWe are delighted to announce that in 2023 we will be launching Differently Brained, the podcast where no brain is the same. Differently Brained is an own voices podcast where each fortnight we interview a neurodivergent guest or a guest who has lived experience with mental health challenges.
We talk to a diverse range of people with a focus on telling individual stories and championing the different ways we all exist in the world. We hope that these discussions will help to break down the stigmas and misconceptions around neurodivergence and mental health, and normalise these conversations in our...2022-12-1924 minDifferently BrainedGet to know Differently BrainedWe are delighted to announce that in 2023 we will be launching Differently Brained, the podcast where no brain is the same. Differently Brained is an own voices podcast where each fortnight we interview a neurodivergent guest or a guest who has lived experience with mental health challenges.
We talk to a diverse range of people with a focus on telling individual stories and championing the different ways we all exist in the world. We hope that these discussions will help to break down the stigmas and misconceptions around neurodivergence and mental health, and normalise these conversations in our...2022-12-1214 minDifferently BrainedIntroducing Differently BrainedHello, I’m Lachlan Rutherford and I’m Jacinta Dietrich and we are delighted to announce that in 2023 we will be launching Differently Brained, the podcast where no brain is the same.
Differently Brained is an own voices podcast where each fortnight we interview a neurodivergent guest or a guest who has lived experience with mental health challenges.
We talk to a diverse range of people with a focus on telling individual stories and championing the different ways we all exist in the world.
We hope that these discussions will help to break down the s...2022-12-0402 min