ListenABLE

Jessica Horner (Neurodivergent Journalist & has Multiple Medical Disabilities) #129

In today's episode of ListenABLE, we’re joined by Jessica Horner, a neurodivergent journalist and policy advisor living with autism, ADHD, and multiple medical disabilities. Jessica offers a powerful and deeply personal conversation about what it means to navigate life and work through the lens of disability and neurodivergence. Together, we explore the dynamic nature of disability and how traditional models often fall short of recognising the full spectrum of lived experience. From unpacking the emotional and physical toll of masking and autistic burnout, to examining the recent rise in ADHD diagnoses, Jessica reflects on the evolving language, systems, and stigmas surrounding neurodivergence. We also delve into how medical disabilities intersect with mental health, the role of support systems, and the importance of creating safer spaces for disclosure, especially in workplaces where harassment and bias remain widespread. Drawing from her background in journalism, Jessica discusses how the media shapes public perception of disability and why self-diagnosis is a valid and vital part of identity for many. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in disability advocacy, inclusive mental health practices, and challenging the assumptions we make about what disability looks like.Trigger Warning: Themes of Suicide Discussed Want to connect with Jessica? Check out the links Below! Website: https://www.spoonfulsofwhimsy.com.au/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/spoonfulsofwhimsy Email: horner.jessica@outlook.com Watch the Full Episode with Captions Here: https://youtu.be/4yAC4QLQ1ec If you feel like you need support after today's episode please look at the links below: Beyond Blue (1300 22 4636): https://www.beyondblue.org.au/ Lifeline Australia (13 11 14): https://www.lifeline.org.au/ Grab our first merch release at our website Session in Progress.https://fromyourpocket.com.au/work/listenable/merchSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Kellie Forrest (Psychologist with Cerebral Palsy ) #129

In this episode of ListenABLE, registered psychologist Kellie Forrest shares her experiences living with cerebral palsy and working in mental health. As both a parent and a professional, Kellie provides insight into how internalised ableism, societal attitudes, and systemic gaps impact people with disability in day-to-day life. Kellie speaks candidly about parenting with a disability, navigating hospitals and schools, and the assumptions she’s encountered as a disabled parent. She reflects on how these experiences intersect with her work as a psychologist, where she supports neurodivergent clients and applies trauma-informed and behaviour support frameworks. The conversation dives into the complexity of the NDIS, including inconsistent access to support and difficulties with innovative treatments. Kellie also recounts her personal experience with a car accident and the barriers faced during the insurance claims process—especially when dealing with modified vehicles. Throughout the episode, Dylan and Angus explore how lived experience can shape professional practice, and why representation within psychology and healthcare matters. Want to contact Kellie? Reach out to her clinic: info@assessable.com.au Watch the Full Episode with Captions Here: https://youtu.be/Yul1SVSnomAGrab our first merch release at our website Session in Progress.https://fromyourpocket.com.au/work/listenable/merch Recorded, edited and produced by Angus' Podcast Company: www.sessioninprogress.com.auSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Rita Havea (Model & Advocate with Charcot-Marie-Tooth) #128

In this episode of ListenABLE, Angus O'Loughlin and Dylan Alcott are joined by Rita Havea, a model, content creator and disability advocate living with Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease (CMT), a progressive genetic neuromuscular condition, "Went and saw a genetic counsellor, linked myself to CMT support groups, did as much research as possible,'cause I felt that made me feel stronger in myself". The conversation also delves into how disability can affect family dynamics, particularly when conditions go unrecognised across generations. Rita reflects on her mother’s undiagnosed CMT and how this shaped their family’s understanding of disability. As someone working within the fashion and creative industries as a model/creator, Rita shares her perspective on disability representation in media and modelling, and why change often feels cosmetic rather than structural. She also touches on genetic counselling, community support, and her shift towards creative direction and public speaking. This episode offers a grounded conversation about disability, inclusion and identity — avoiding clichés and focusing instead on lived experience, structural barriers, and the importance of visibility that goes beyond aesthetics. Want to see more of Rita and her work? Check our the links below! Website: https://www.silverfoxmgmt.com.au/portfolios/rita-havea Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamrita_h/ Watch the Full Episode with Captions Here: https://youtu.be/0YKK4wE4ViMGrab our first merch release at our website Session in Progress.https://fromyourpocket.com.au/work/listenable/merchSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Cherie Clonan (Chief Executive Officer - The Digital Picnic) #127

In this episode of ListenABLE, hosts Dylan Alcott and Angus O’Loughlin speak with Cherie Clonan — autistic business leader, digital marketing expert, and founder of The Digital Picnic. Diagnosed with Autism later in life, Cherie shares her lived experience as a neurodivergent woman, parent of autistic children, and CEO of one of Australia’s most human-centric digital agencies. "The way I parent, the way I show up in my marriage, I'm a better friend for that diagnosis sitting in my life now..." Listeners will hear how Cherie transformed The Digital Picnic from a small business into a multi-million dollar, award-winning agency known for prioritising mental health, inclusivity, and neurodiverse-friendly work practices. She explains how discovering her neurodivergence reshaped her personal life, improved her relationships, and empowered her leadership style. This episode delves into the importance of normalising disability, challenging ableism in the workplace, and creating supportive environments for neurodivergent employees. Cherie also discusses the impact of late diagnosis, the power of self-understanding, and how investing in employee wellbeing leads to business success. Whether you're interested in autism advocacy, inclusive leadership, or neurodiversity in business, this inspiring conversation offers practical insights and real-life experiences that will resonate with many. Want to see more of Cherie and The Digital Picnic? Check our the links below! LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cherie-clonan/ Website: https://www.thedigitalpicnic.com.au/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thedigitalpicnic/ Watch the Full Episode with Captions Here: https://youtu.be/mnWV0tVApPkGrab our first merch release at our website Session in Progress.https://fromyourpocket.com.au/work/listenable/merch Recorded, edited and produced by Angus' Podcast Company: www.sessioninprogress.com.auSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

John Mckenna (Arthrogryposis Multiplex Congenita) #126

In this episode of the ListenABLE Podcast, your hosts Dylan and Angus are joined by John Mckenna, a renowned disability advocate, podcaster, and expert with over 60 years of lived experience navigating life with Arthrogryposis Multiplex Congenita. John is a passionate advocate for disability rights, independence, and the importance of community support for people with disabilities. John's journey highlights the evolution of assistive technologies, from early electric wheelchairs to cutting-edge gadgets, and explores the challenges of growing up with a disability in the 1960s and 1970s. The conversation also delves into the societal impacts of institutionalisation of that time and the critical role of disability advocacy in shaping more inclusive communities for the future. As a key figure in the development of the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), John shares his insights on how lived experience informs policy and why inclusive disability policy is crucial for social change. The episode also covers the often-overlooked intersection of disability and sexuality, discussing the importance of representation and breaking taboos. Want to support John? Check our the links below! LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnmckennajp/ Website: https://johnmckenna.com.au/ Watch the Full Episode with Captions Here: https://youtu.be/mnWV0tVApPkGrab our first merch release at our website Session in Progress.https://fromyourpocket.com.au/work/listenable/merch Recorded, edited and produced by Angus' Podcast Company: www.sessioninprogress.com.auSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.