Épisodes

  • Building Resilience and Diversifying Income
    Jan 25 2026

    Building Resilience: Diversifying Income for Parent Carer Forums


    In this episode of 'Start the Conversation,' host Lucy discusses with Kenton Mee from the North Somerset Parent Carer Forum about how parent carer forums can diversify income beyond the DFE grant. They explore how collaborations with local authorities and integrated care boards can enhance reach and influence, provide positive support offers, and ensure representation of the parent carer community. The conversation provides practical ideas for forums to attract additional funding, the importance of maintaining financial independence, and how to build a resilient forum structure. Tune in for insights on fostering better services and communication with stakeholders.


    00:00 Introduction to Start the Conversation

    00:52 Meet Kenton Mee: Diversifying Income for Parent Carer Forums

    01:47 Challenges and Strategies in Funding

    03:30 Building Partnerships and Expanding Reach

    05:31 Navigating Contracts and Independence

    10:53 Practical Tips for Financial Growth

    15:21 Final Thoughts and Key Takeaways

    20:57 Conclusion

    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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    22 min
  • The Future of Leadership
    Jan 15 2026

    Exploring Leadership and Neurodiversity in the Future of Work


    Join host Lucy from Inclusive Change as she sits down with executive leadership coach Anne Wilkinson. They delve into the importance of neurodiversity, the future of work, and the evolving landscape of leadership. From the impact of AI to the challenges faced by neurodivergent individuals in the workplace, this episode aims to educate, inspire, and empower listeners to make a difference in their communities.


    00:00 Introduction to Start the Conversation

    01:30 Anne Wilkinson's Journey and Insights

    11:19 Leadership and the Future of Work

    24:01 The Impact of AI on Leadership and Expertise

    27:27 Challenges and Opportunities for Future Leaders

    31:37 Innovative Solutions and Personal Insights

    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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    46 min
  • Mentoring with Inclusive Change
    Jan 12 2026

    Empowering Neurodivergent Youth: Lucy's Journey to Confidence | Start the Conversation Podcast


    In this episode of 'Start the Conversation,' mentor Becca discuss Lucy's journey as a neurodivergent young adult. Lucy shares her experiences with anxiety, autistic burnout, and rebuilding confidence after leaving education. The conversation highlights the importance of tailored support, routines, and small but significant achievements like going to the shop alone. Lucy's story serves as a powerful reminder of how progress is often gradual and unique to each individual, offering valuable insights for young adults, parents, carers, and professionals interested in neurodivergent-informed support.


    00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview

    00:52 Meet Your Host, Lucy

    01:39 Today's Mentoring Story

    02:30 Meet Lucy and Becca

    03:11 Lucy's Interests and Hobbies

    08:28 Challenges in Education

    10:16 Autism Diagnosis Journey

    10:57 The Importance of Self-Diagnosis

    15:25 Mentoring Experience and Support

    16:57 Building Trust in Professional Relationships

    17:55 The Puzzle Connection

    18:53 The Overwhelm of Letting Go

    20:23 The Importance of Routine

    21:59 Overcoming Burnout

    24:36 Achievements in Mentoring

    27:26 The Value of Nonverbal Cues

    28:34 Encouragement for Future Mentors

    29:15 Final Thoughts and Gratitude

    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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    30 min
  • Neurodiversity and Menopause
    Oct 10 2025

    Lucy and Kirsty talk about menopause and neurodiversity.



    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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    45 min
  • Supporting Parents and Carers in Luton
    Oct 5 2025

    Embracing Neurodiversity: Raja's Journey from Struggle to Empowerment | Start the Conversation


    Join Lucy, the host of Start the Conversation, as she sits down with Raja from the Epic Luton Parent Carer Forum. They delve into Raja's personal journey with neurodiversity and how it has shaped his life and career. From his struggles in school to becoming the Managing Director of Epic, Raja shares his lived experiences, the barriers he faced, and the strengths neurodivergence has brought to his role. This insightful conversation highlights the importance of understanding, empathy, and support for neurodivergent individuals and their families. Tune in to learn how you can make a difference in your community by fostering inclusive environments.


    00:00 Introduction to 'Start the Conversation'

    00:54 Meet Raja from Epic Luton Parent Carer Forum

    01:54 Raja's Early Experiences with Neurodiversity

    03:22 Challenges and Triumphs in School

    05:17 Strengths and Empathy from Lived Experience

    07:22 Barriers and Challenges in the Workplace

    13:22 Tips for Supporting Neurodivergent Adults

    17:17 Raja's Personal Journey and College Success

    17:59 Life Changes and Mental Health Struggles

    18:44 Focusing on My Daughter's Needs

    19:26 Discovering My Own Neurodivergence

    20:12 The Impact of Diagnosis and Validation

    25:23 Challenges and Misunderstandings

    28:01 Message to My Younger Self and Neurodivergent Youth

    30:17 About Epic and Its Mission

    33:26 Upcoming Events and Final Thoughts

    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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    37 min
  • Supporting Parents in Bath and North East Somerset
    Oct 5 2025

    Understanding Neurodiversity in Parent Carer Forums | Start the Conversation


    Join host Lucy in this episode of 'Start the Conversation' as she explores the role of neurodiversity in parent carer forums with guests from the Bath and Northeast Somerset Parent Carer Forum (BANES). Discover how neurodiversity impacts staff, volunteers, parents, and children within the forum, the challenges they face, and the strategies they employ to create inclusive environments. Hear firsthand experiences and insightful tips on managing neurodivergent team members and supporting families through their journeys. Tune in for an inspiring and educational discussion that aims to foster understanding and empowerment in our communities.


    00:00 Welcome to Start the Conversation

    00:45 Introducing BANES Parent Carer Forum

    01:13 Neurodiversity in Parent Carer Forums

    02:40 Challenges Faced by Neurodivergent Parents

    03:49 Support Systems and Resources

    06:00 Barriers in Education and Healthcare

    10:47 Improving Inclusivity in Forums

    13:48 Adapting to Neurodivergent Needs

    17:58 Creating a Safe Space for Neurodivergent Team Members

    19:04 Understanding and Patience in the Workplace

    20:03 Challenges of Neurodivergent Employees

    21:46 Top Tips for Supporting Neurodivergent Team Members

    25:38 Sharing Experiences and Building Community

    29:53 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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    33 min
  • Start the conversation with Paula Power, mywhitedog.com
    Aug 19 2025

    Building Inclusive Workplaces: Mental Health First Aid with Paula Power


    Join Lucy from Inclusive Change as she hosts 'Start the Conversation,' a series spotlighting the impact of neurodiversity on community and work environments. In this episode, Lucy sits down with Paula Power from My White Dog to discuss Mental Health First Aid in the workplace. They delve into the importance of recognizing mental health issues, the benefits of positive intervention strategies, and the upcoming Wellbeing Ambassador Program. Tune in to learn how to create a supportive and inclusive work environment, and hear personal stories that highlight the importance of mental health awareness.


    00:00 Introduction to 'Start the Conversation'

    00:54 Meet Paula Power: The Story Behind My White Dog

    03:00 Personal Stories and Mental Health Challenges

    04:48 The Importance of Mental Health Conversations

    14:42 Mental Health First Aid in the Workplace

    18:43 Supporting Solopreneurs and Small Business Owners

    20:36 Understanding Neurodiversity and Social Support

    21:05 Mental Health First Aid and Neurodiversity

    22:14 The Connection Between Mental Health and Neurodiversity

    25:04 Impact of Hormones on Neurodivergence

    26:28 Challenges in Recognizing Emotions

    27:51 Creating a Safe Space for Conversations

    30:18 The Role of Hub of Hope

    32:35 Trends in Workplace Wellbeing

    35:50 Future Plans and Wellbeing Ambassador Program

    38:57 Conclusion and Contact Information

    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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    42 min
  • Neurodiversity & Sport with North Somerset Sports Foundation
    Jun 24 2025

    Neurodiversity in Football: Breaking Barriers and Building Inclusivity


    Join Lucy from Inclusive Change in an engaging conversation with Lucy Chapell, the founder of North Somerset Sports Foundation. In this episode, they explore the intersection of neurodiversity and sports, specifically football. Discover the foundation's mission to create an inclusive sports environment, the challenges faced by neurodiverse players, and the impactful initiatives aimed at supporting mental health and well-being. Tune in for insights, strategies, and inspirational stories about making sports accessible and empowering for everyone.


    00:00 Introduction to the Conversation

    00:34 Introducing Project Sandbox and Today's Topic

    01:12 Meet Lucy Chapell: Founder of North Somerset Sports Foundation

    02:35 Challenges and Triumphs of Running a Sports Charity

    04:25 Personal Stories of Neurodiversity

    11:30 Neurodiversity in Football: Challenges and Solutions

    16:03 Supporting Neurodivergent Players in Football

    16:50 Effective Communication Strategies

    18:06 Creating a Comfortable Environment

    22:07 The Importance of Praise and Flexibility

    23:11 The Role of Football in Child Development

    24:59 Future of Inclusive Football


    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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    30 min