Wine with Wita

Hey everyone,This week, I am joined by Simon and Rima for a deeply personal and heartfelt conversation about raising their son Jayden following his autism diagnosis.​Jayden was one of my very first clients. I met him when he was just two years old, and from the very beginning, he taught me the power of connection, following a child’s interests, and truly meeting them where they are.​Now 16, his impact reaches far beyond those early years.​Simon and Rima open up about the reality so many parents face after a diagnosis… the emotions, the uncertainty, and the challenge of sharing that news with others. Because often, it is not just the diagnosis that is hard. It is everything that comes with it.​This episode is a beautiful reminder that with the right support, faith, and guidance, the journey can shift in ways you never expected.​We talk about:💫 The emotions that come with receiving and sharing a diagnosis💫 What support really looked like for their family💫 How Jayden shaped their family’s perspective and strength💫 The role faith and guidance played in their journey💫 How his sisters, including his twin Renee, found motivation through him💫 The beauty of connection and following a child’s lead​A powerful reminder that while the journey may not look how you first imagined, it can be filled with strength, connection, and so much love.Follow along with Simon and Rima!​Lots of love,Rita​P.S.: follow me on Instagram for more tips, insights and updates.Disclaimer: the purpose of this podcast is to provide information. You must not rely on the information on this podcast as an alternative to speech and language therapy. You must always consult with a Speech Pathologist, GP and/or paediatrician if you have any concerns about your child's communication and/development.

Hey everyone,This week, I am joined by Taylah Ayyash, a health advocate who shares her lived experience with anaphylaxis, epilepsy, Bell’s Palsy, Ramsay Hunt syndrome, and temporary paralysis.​Taylah opens up about growing up with learning difficulties and silent seizures that went undiagnosed for years, often labelled as “easily distracted” or “off with the fairies”, when in reality there was something deeper going on.​Her journey through sudden illness and life-changing moments reshaped her identity, teaching her the quiet strength found in vulnerability, honesty, and asking for help.​We speak about how faith guided her through some of her most confronting moments, and the impact of having a medical team who saw her as a human, not just a case.​In this episode, Taylah shares: * What it was like growing up with undiagnosed silent seizures * The impact of being misunderstood in school * Her experience navigating multiple health challenges * How faith grounded her in life-threatening moments * The importance of being seen as a person, not just a diagnosis * Why she chose to start sharing her story * The one word she is living by right now: patience​A full circle moment, Taylah first came across my page and thought, “I would love to be interviewed one day”… and now she’s here, sharing her story to remind others they are not alone.​A meaningful conversation about resilience, identity, and the power of using your story to help someone else feel seen.​Learn more about Taylah Ayyash here!​​Lots of love,Rita​P.S.: follow me on Instagram for more tips, insights and updates.Disclaimer: the purpose of this podcast is to provide information. You must not rely on the information on this podcast as an alternative to speech and language therapy. You must always consult with a Speech Pathologist, GP and/or paediatrician if you have any concerns about your child's communication and/development.

Hey everyone,This week, I share a heartfelt solo episode on what it really means to create a village when raising a child with additional needs. We unpack the reality that so many parents face after a diagnosis. Feeling lost, overwhelmed, and unsure where to turn for the right information and support. Because often, it is not just the diagnosis that is hard. It is the loneliness that can come with it. This episode is a gentle reminder that you were never meant to do this alone. The right people, support, and shared experiences can completely shift the journey.I talk about: 💫 Why finding people with lived experience is so powerful 💫 The emotional impact of feeling unheard or misunderstood 💫 How a strong support network creates clarity and confidence 💫 The difference between information and true understanding 💫 Practical ways to start building your own village 💫 Why connection can change the way you move forwardA reassuring reminder that there are people out there who understand. And when you find your village, everything starts to feel a little lighter.Lots of love,RitaP.S.: follow me on Instagram for more tips, insights and updates.​​Disclaimer: the purpose of this podcast is to provide information. You must not rely on the information on this podcast as an alternative to speech and language therapy. You must always consult with a Speech Pathologist, GP and/or paediatrician if you have any concerns about your child's communication and/development.

Hey everyone,This week, I am joined by Jordan Lee Ikitule, founder and CEO of ASD Dads and Ausim Kids Clothing, for a powerful conversation about fatherhood, community, and advocacy in the autism space.​Jordan shares the deeply personal journey that led him to create ASD Dads after his own son was diagnosed with autism. What began as a simple post online quickly grew into a nationwide movement supporting fathers, mothers, and whānau raising children with autism.​We also explore the importance of community, the challenges many fathers face when navigating an autism diagnosis, and how shared stories can create powerful support networks for families who often feel alone.​In this episode, Jordan shares:* The moment his son was diagnosed and the challenges that followed * How a single post online led to the creation of ASD Dads NZ * The mission behind building a support network for fathers and families * The events and initiatives created to raise awareness and bring families together * How Run 4 Autism is helping fund speech therapy and support services* The expansion of ASD Dads internationally, including Japan and Australia *The creation of Ausim Kids | Autism Apparel – Love, Accept, Protect, using clothing and QR code safety technology to raise awareness and help keep autistic children safe​A powerful conversation about turning personal experience into purpose, and how one father’s journey is now helping thousands of families feel seen, supported, and connected.Click the links below to learn follow Jordan's ventures!-Ausim Kids Clothing​-Express Yourself NZ​-Jordan's Insta​​Lots of love,Rita​P.S.: follow me on Instagram for more tips, insights and updates.This episode of Wine with Wita is proudly sponsored by Mindd Health and the Mindd International Forum, Australia’s leading conference for families and professionals supporting children with developmental differences.I’ll be part of the panel this year, sharing practical strategies to support communication and engagement in children.Listeners can use code SHAMOUN26 for 15% off registration. Grab your spot today via ⁠⁠https://mif26.mindd.org/mif26-registration-community/⁠Disclaimer: the purpose of this podcast is to provide information. You must not rely on the information on this podcast as an alternative to speech and language therapy. You must always consult with a Speech Pathologist, GP and/or paediatrician if you have any concerns about your child's communication and/development.

Hey everyone,My conversation this week with Lauren Tench is raw and powerful, in honour of Endometriosis Awareness Month.​Lauren is 31, a mum of two, and has undergone 13 surgeries and a hysterectomy while living with endometriosis. She shares what it has been like navigating chronic pain, being dismissed in the medical system, and fighting to be heard.​This episode is not just about a diagnosis. It is about advocacy, resilience, and what it means to keep showing up for yourself when others doubt your pain.​In this episode, Lauren shares:💫 What endometriosis really feels like beyond “bad period pain”💫 Being dismissed and gaslit as a teenager💫 The emotional toll of infertility fears and pregnancy after loss💫 Why hysterectomy is not a cure💫 The importance of finding doctors who truly listen💫 What real support from partners and family looks like💫 The one word she lives by: unstoppable​A courageous and deeply important conversation that reminds us that women’s pain deserves to be believed, and that awareness begins with how we listen.Follow Lauren here!​​Lots of love,Rita​P.S.: follow me on Instagram for more tips, insights and updates.​​​Disclaimer: the purpose of this podcast is to provide information. You must not rely on the information on this podcast as an alternative to speech and language therapy. You must always consult with a Speech Pathologist, GP and/or paediatrician if you have any concerns about your child's communication and/development.

Hey everyone,This week, I am joined by Ativalu Lisati, professional rugby league player for the Melbourne Storm, for a heartfelt conversation about family, communication, and advocacy.​Ativalu shares what it means to be an uncle to his autistic nephew, how he has learned to understand his unique way of communicating, and how this journey has changed the way he sees the world.​We also explore the cultural side of autism, including denial, language barriers, and the importance of raising awareness within Pacific Islander communities. A powerful reminder that connection does not always need words.​In this episode, Ativalu shares:💫 What he noticed first about his nephew’s communication and routines💫 Why he sees autism as difference, not something to fear💫 How he supports his brother and family through challenging moments💫 The impact of cultural beliefs, denial, and language barriers💫 Why awareness matters in Pacific Islander communities and multicultural families💫 How he wants to use his platform in the NRL to create change💫 The one word he is choosing to live by right now: faith​A meaningful conversation that highlights the power of family support, cultural understanding, and advocacy that feels real, grounded, and human.Learn more about Ativalu Lisati here!​​Lots of love,Rita​P.S.: follow me on Instagram for more tips, insights and updates.​​​Disclaimer: the purpose of this podcast is to provide information. You must not rely on the information on this podcast as an alternative to speech and language therapy. You must always consult with a Speech Pathologist, GP and/or paediatrician if you have any concerns about your child's communication and/development.

Hey everyone,This week, I share a heartfelt solo episode for parents who have ever quietly wondered if they have failed their child.​We unpack the heavy weight of parental guilt, especially after a diagnosis or when health concerns evolve. Sometimes it is not about failure at all. It is about not having the right information at the right time. And when we know better, we can do better.​This episode is a gentle reminder to release self-blame, lean into compassion, and recognise that learning and adjusting is part of the journey.​I talk about:The emotional weight of saying “I feel like I’ve failed” Why not knowing is not the same as failingAirway health, early intervention and trusting your instinctsTrial and error in therapy and finding the right fit The pressure parents carry after a diagnosis Giving yourself grace while advocating for your childWhy this journey is not a straight line​A reassuring reminder that you have not failed your child. You are learning, advocating, adjusting and showing up. And that is what truly makes the difference.Lots of love,Rita​P.S.: follow me on Instagram for more tips, insights and updates.​​​Disclaimer: the purpose of this podcast is to provide information. You must not rely on the information on this podcast as an alternative to speech and language therapy. You must always consult with a Speech Pathologist, GP and/or paediatrician if you have any concerns about your child's communication and/development.

Hey everyone,This week, I am joined by Julie Sampson, founder of Freedom Fitness, for a grounded and heartfelt conversation about movement, motherhood, and what real wellbeing looks like for women.​Jules shares her journey as a business owner, community builder, and mother, including how her son’s autism diagnosis shaped her values, her leadership, and the way she supports women through movement, compassion, and belonging.​We explore the Freedom Effect, the power of connection and community, and why fitness for women needs to feel safe, supportive, and human, especially through perimenopause, menopause, and busy seasons of life.​In this episode, Jules shares:What the Freedom Effect really means and how it supports women holisticallyWhy movement should feel empowering, not punishingCreating community and belonging beyond the gym wallsCreating community and belonging beyond the gym wallsSupporting women through perimenopause and menopause with compassionNavigating motherhood alongside business and advocacyRaising a neurodivergent child and the importance of village support Why self-kindness and prevention matter for long-term wellbeing​A warm and inspiring conversation that reminds us that strength is not just physical. When women feel seen, supported, and connected, real change becomes possible.Learn more about Jules here!​​Lots of love,Rita​P.S.: follow me on Instagram for more tips, insights and updates.Disclaimer: the purpose of this podcast is to provide information. You must not rely on the information on this podcast as an alternative to speech and language therapy. You must always consult with a Speech Pathologist, GP and/or paediatrician if you have any concerns about your child's communication and/development.

Hey everyone,This week, I share a reflective solo episode for parents navigating their child’s intervention journey and quietly wondering if progress is really happening.​We explore the nothing, something, everything analogy and what communication truly looks like in the early stages, from gestures and sounds to words, devices and pictures. Those small moments are the foundation for real growth.​This episode is a gentle reminder to pause, reflect, and recognise the milestones along the way, for your child and for you as a parent too.​I talk about:-  What communication really looks like in the early stages - Why “nothing” does not mean nothing at all - How small changes signal meaningful progress - Celebrating milestones, not just outcomes - The emotional toll of intervention and self-doubt - Using reflection and data to see growth over time - Staying motivated through the ups, downs and setbacksA gentle and reassuring reminder that progress is happening, even when it feels slow. When we look back and honour the journey, nothing becomes something, and something becomes everything.Lots of love,Rita​P.S.: follow me on Instagram for more tips, insights and updates.​​Disclaimer: the purpose of this podcast is to provide information. You must not rely on the information on this podcast as an alternative to speech and language therapy. You must always consult with a Speech Pathologist, GP and/or paediatrician if you have any concerns about your child's communication and/development.

Hey everyone,This week, I sit down with ⁠Tash Delrosario⁠, a mum of two girls on the autism spectrum and a powerful voice for autism acceptance.Tash shares her family’s journey with honesty, from navigating diagnosis and the loneliness that can follow, to the everyday ways connection and communication are built at home.This is a conversation about autism, advocacy and letting go of expectations, but also about finding strength in the ordinary moments and caring for yourself so you can show up for your children.We talk about:💫 Navigating an autism diagnosis💫 The isolation many parents feel💫 Building communication through everyday connection💫 Advocacy, judgement, and trusting your instincts as a parent💫 Why self care matters for caregiversThis episode is for parents and carers who want to feel seen, understood and reminded that they are not alone.Follow Tash's journey ⁠here!⁠Lots of love,RitaP.S.: follow me on ⁠Instagram⁠ for more tips, insights and updates.This episode of Wine with Wita is proudly sponsored by Mindd Health and the Mindd International Forum, Australia’s leading conference for families and professionals supporting children with developmental differences. I’ll be part of the panel this year, sharing practical strategies to support communication and engagement in children.Listeners can use code SHAMOUN26 for 15% off registration. Grab your spot today via ⁠https://mif26.mindd.org/mif26-registration-community/⁠Disclaimer: the purpose of this podcast is to provide information. You must not rely on the information on this podcast as an alternative to speech and language therapy. You must always consult with a Speech Pathologist, GP and/or paediatrician if you have any concerns about your child's communication and/development.

Hey everyone,This week, I sit down for a reflective solo episode inspired by a simple walk with my daughter and a powerful reminder that parenting, while it can feel like a mission, is never impossible.​I share how a conversation with my middle daughter sparked a deeper reflection on the many transitions of parenthood. From life before children, to motherhood and then navigating the unpredictable journey of parenting a child with additional needs. The routines, the communication challenges and the constant change can often feel overwhelming.​This episode brings me back to the heart of why Wine with Wita exists. When parents are equipped with the right information, the right services and a supportive circle, what once felt impossible becomes possible. Knowledge empowers parents to advocate confidently and make informed decisions for their child.​I talk about:💫 Parenting as a mission and why it is never impossible💫 The transitions of motherhood and the challenges they bring💫 Navigating unpredictability and communication difficulties💫 The importance of surrounding yourself with the right support circle💫 Trusting your instincts as a parent, even when concerns are dismissed💫 Accessing the right services and evidence based information💫 How knowledge empowers parents to become strong advocates for their children​A grounding and hopeful reminder that while the journey may feel challenging, with the right support and guidance, it is always possible.Lots of love,Rita​P.S.: follow me on Instagram for more tips, insights and updates.Disclaimer: the purpose of this podcast is to provide information. You must not rely on the information on this podcast as an alternative to speech and language therapy. You must always consult with a Speech Pathologist, GP and/or paediatrician if you have any concerns about your child's communication and/development.

Hey everyone,This week, in the first episode of Season 3, I sit down withSabrina Ware, an Australian mum living in Dubai, and the incredible mother of Violet and Lily.​Sabrina shares Lily’s story with so much honesty and heart, from the early symptoms that were missed, to the moment everything changed, to the road of recovery they are still walking today.​This is a conversation about advocacy, resilience, and what itreally looks like to keep going when your life is split into “before” and “after”. Sabrina also opens up about the role gratitude has played in carrying her through, and why she chooses to believe in what is still possible, even onthe hardest days.​She also shares the beautiful reason she wrote her book, Holding Onto Our Sparkle, and how storytelling became a way to process the journey, include Lily’s big sister Violet, and connect with other families around the world.​We talk about:💫 The moment Lily’s sudden decline turned into a life-changing diagnosis.💫 The shock, guilt, and grief that can come with medical trauma, and what helped Sabrina keep moving.💫 Advocacy, instinct, and why parents have to trust their gut.💫Treatment and recovery, including their experience with proton therapy overseas.💫 The difference between surviving and thriving, and why Sabrina refuses to stop at survival.💫 Supporting siblings through big family change, and how writing a book became a bridge for connection💫 Why Sabrina comes back to one word every day: gratitude​This is a powerful episode for mums, carers, and anyone whoneeds a reminder that even in the hardest seasons, hope can still exist.Follow Sabrina and Lily's journey here!​​Lots of love,Rita​P.S.: follow me on Instagram for more tips, insights and updates. Disclaimer: the purpose of this podcast is to provideinformation. You must not rely on the information on this podcast as an alternative to speech and language therapy. You must always consult with a Speech Pathologist, GP and/or paediatrician if you have any concerns about your child's communication and/development.

Hi everyone,This week on Wine with Wita, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Dr Carlo Rinaudo, a chiropractor and clinical neuroscientist whose work in paediatric neurodevelopment is expanding how we think about brain and body connection in children.Dr Carlo brings a unique perspective to developmental care,  blending clinical neuroscience with hands-on support for children and families. In this episode, we dive into:💭 What chiropractic looks like in a paediatric, neurodevelopmental setting💭 The fascinating role of the vagus nerve in gut, brain, and emotional health.💭 How neuroplasticity supports developmental change and growth.💭 What the Melillo Method is - and why so many families are exploring it.Whether you’re a parent looking for new ways to support your child, or a professional open to learning beyond your usual scope, this episode is a beautiful invitation into curiosity, connection, and collaboration.Lots of love, RitaP.S.: Follow me on @winewithwitapodcast for more tips, insights and updates.This episode was proudly sponsored Tambakis Physiotherapy, because parents deserve support too. When you're raising a child with physical or developmental challenges having the right people around you makes all the difference.Tambakis offers expert, family centred physiotherapy and exercise physiology in Sydney's South-West, helping you feel less alone and more supported on the journey. Learn more at tambakisphysiotherapy.com.au Disclaimer: the purpose of this podcast is to provide information. You must not rely on the information on this podcast as an alternative to speech and language therapy. You must always consult with a Speech Pathologist, GP and/or paediatrician if you have any concerns about your child's communication and/development.

Hi everyone, When you think of a dance studio, you might picture competitions, costumes, and choreography. But for Megan Jessop, Director of Dance Habit, dance is about so much more than that. It’s about belonging. Connection. Confidence. And creating a space where every child is seen, celebrated, and supported. This week on Wine with Wita, Megan shares the story behind her childhood dream turned thriving business. From teaching ballet at age 16 in New Zealand to founding one of Melbourne’s most inclusive studios, Megan has never followed the traditional path, and that’s exactly why her story is so powerful.In this episode we explore:✨How dance can support neurodivergent children beyond the stage ✨What it takes to build a values-led business (even when it means letting go of “success” as others define it) ✨The growing wave of women being diagnosed with ADHD — and how Megan’s diagnosis gave her clarity and compassion for her younger self ✨Why inclusion isn’t just about who you welcome through the doors, but how you show up for them once they’re insideIt’s warm, honest, and full of lessons for parents, educators, and anyone trying to do things differently.Lots of love, RitaP.S. Follow me on @winewithwitapodcast or more tips, insights and updates.Disclaimer: the purpose of this podcast is to provide information. You must not rely on the information on this podcast as an alternative to speech and language therapy. You must always consult with a Speech Pathologist, GP and/or paediatrician if you have any concerns about your child's communication and/development

Hi everyone, This week’s episode of Wine with Wita is a little different. It’s not about children. Or disability.It’s about us. Us as women. Us as mothers. Us as humans who spend so much time doing, we forget to be. I sat down with my breath-work coach and dear friend, Nicola Laye. I first met Nicola when I was deep in transition, between phases of motherhood, between who I was and who I was becoming. I didn’t know it then, but I was holding my breath through it all. In this episode, we talk about:✨ How breathing, something so simple, can feel terrifying when we finally pause ✨ The hidden grief and guilt that lives in so many of us ✨ Why slowing down isn’t lazy or indulgent: it’s essential ✨ The connection between your breath and your inner voice ✨ My own journey of falling back in love with myself: slowly, gently, breath by breathWe also talk about parenting, the kind we do for our kids, and the kind we desperately need to do for ourselves. This is not a ‘how to fix your life in five steps’ conversation. It’s raw. It’s tender. It’s honest. And it’s one of the most beautiful episodes I’ve recorded.For every mama who’s ever said "I’m fine" when you weren’t. For every woman who’s running on empty but can’t stop. This is for you. With a full heart, Rita xPS: Nicola is an angel disguised as a breathwork coach. She offers 1:1 sessions, birth and postpartum support, trauma release, and retreats, both online and on the Gold Coast. You can find her at  @nicola_laye  or  nicolalaye.com. Disclaimer: the purpose of this podcast is to provide information. You must not rely on the information on this podcast as an alternative to speech and language therapy. You must always consult with a Speech Pathologist, GP and/or paediatrician if you have any concerns about your child's communication and/development

Hi everyone, This week’s episode is so much more than just a conversation. It’s the story that started it all - from a bottle of wine to "Wine with Wita".Episode 57 of Wine with Wita marks three beautiful, humbling, life-changing years since I opened the doors to RS Speech Pathology. And to honour that milestone, I’m sitting down with the person who made it all start: Nicky, the very first parent who took a chance on me. Her son Serge was my first client. Her phone call, filled with emotion, confusion, and gut instinct, was the push I needed to say yes to building a business that supports families navigating speech and language challenges. This episode is for every mum who’s ever felt unsure. Every parent who’s been told to “wait and see.” Every carer who knew, deep down, that something didn’t feel right.What we covered: ✨ The real story behind RS Speech Pathology, and the powerful moment that sparked it ✨ What early signs of language delay actually looked like for Serge✨ The heartbreak and hope of hearing a diagnosis ✨ How therapy looks beyond the bubble-blowing and LEGO, and why the bond between child and therapist matters ✨ Nicky’s raw, honest advice for any parent wondering “Should I be worried?” And most of all… we celebrate progress.Serge no longer presents in the delay/disorder range. He’s thriving, not just because of therapy, but because of the love, consistency, and fierce advocacy from his mum and dad. Three years in, this episode is my reminder of why I do what I do. It’s not just a job. It’s a privilege.Thank you for walking this journey with me. Whether you’ve been here since the early days or just found the podcast recently, I’m so grateful you’re part of this growing community. Here’s to three years of RS Speech Pathology, and everything still to come.Lots of love, RitaP.S. Follow me on @winewithwitapodcast for more tips, insights and updates.Disclaimer: the purpose of this podcast is to provide information. You must not rely on the information on this podcast as an alternative to speech and language therapy. You must always consult with a Speech Pathologist, GP and/or paediatrician if you have any concerns about your child's communication and/development.

Hi everyone, What would you do if two of your children needed more support than the system was designed to offer? In this week’s episode of Wine with Wita, I sit down with Crizli Martins, a mother of four, two of whom have additional needs. What began as early signs with her son Frank evolved into years of advocacy, therapy, learning, and eventually, doing it all over again with her youngest daughter, Erica.In this episode we explore:💡 The early red flags Crizli noticed and how she trusted her instincts 🧠 What it’s like navigating two completely different neurodivergent profiles 💬 The reality of therapy - expectations vs. real life ❤️ Faith, family, guilt, and the juggle that comes with it all 🙏 The first word Erica ever spoke… and why it brought Crizli to tears.Crizli doesn’t sugar-coat the hard stuff, but she also brings the kind of optimism, humour and heart that will stay with you long after the episode ends. This one is for every parent doing their best, trusting their gut, and advocating fiercely for their kids, even when the system is slow to catch up.Lots of love, RitaP.S. Follow me on Instagram @winewithwitapodcast for more tips, insights and updates.Disclaimer: the purpose of this podcast is to provide information. You must not rely on the information on this podcast as an alternative to speech and language therapy. You must always consult with a Speech Pathologist, GP and/or paediatrician if you have any concerns about your child's communication and/development

Hi everyone, If you’ve ever found yourself thinking, “I don’t care what you eat, just eat something…” this episode is for you. This week on Wine with Wita, I’m joined by the incredible Rachel Zabel. She’s a PhD-qualified clinical dietitian, neuro-affirming feeding therapist, and mum of four. We’re talking all things feeding and neurodivergence. Because as Rachel explains, feeding is never just about food. It’s about your child’s nervous system, their sensory profile, and whether they feel safe enough to explore what’s on their plate. Inside the episode:What we covered: 🥦 Why your child might be stuck on a “beige diet” 🧠 How screen time and stress impact their willingness to eat 💡 What’s actually behind picky eating (and why the usual advice doesn’t work) 🤝 The power of play, co-regulation, and slowing things down at the table 👩‍👧 Rachel’s lived experience as both a mum and therapistShe’s also shared some helpful free tools to support you at home. You’ll find those in the show notes. This conversation is honest, practical and reassuring. Whether your child has ARFID, autism or just a really narrow food range, I hope this one brings you new insight and a little more ease at the dinner table. Find Rachel at @foodtherapydietitian  or funfamilyfood.com.auLots of love, RitaP.S. Follow me on $ Instagram$  for more tips, insights and updates.Disclaimer: the purpose of this podcast is to provide information. You must not rely on the information on this podcast as an alternative to speech and language therapy. You must always consult with a Speech Pathologist, GP and/or paediatrician if you have any concerns about your child's communication and/development

Hi everyone, This week on Wine with Wita, I’m sharing a solo episode that’s very close to my heart.As a speech pathologist, I’ve spent the past 15 years supporting children with communication disorders. What I’ve seen, time and time again, is how often these children (and their families) are misunderstood, judged, or dismissed simply because their challenges aren’t visible. We don’t talk enough about the invisible disability that is a communication disorder.In this episode, I explore:🧠 Why society is quicker to empathise with physical disabilities than with speech or language challenges 💬 The real impact of comments like “He’ll grow out of it” or “You’re overreacting” 🤝 What families actually need from those around them, and how we can show up better 🌱 Simple ways to support children with communication needs in public spaces and social settingsSometimes, just asking “How can I support you?” is enough to change someone’s day, and their entire experience of being seen and included. Let’s talk about invisible disability with the empathy it deserves.I hope you enjoy this episode. Lots of love, RitaP.S. Don’t forget to follow the new Instagram page: @winewithwitapodcast . I’d love to hear your thoughts and stories! 🥂Disclaimer: the purpose of this podcast is to provide information. You must not rely on the information on this podcast as an alternative to speech and language therapy. You must always consult with a Speech Pathologist, GP and/or paediatrician if you have any concerns about your child's communication and/development

In this surprise follow-up, Fatima Tomoum returns to share more of her powerful journey through motherhood, advocacy, and raising neurodivergent children. We delve deeper into the emotional side of parenting, navigating early diagnoses, and using your voice when it matters most.  There was more to share, and this episode holds some of the most powerful moments yet. Listen now and connect with us on Instagram @winewithwitapodcast or visit www.rsspeechpathology.com.au.Disclaimer: the purpose of this podcast is to provide information. You must not rely on the information on this podcast as an alternative to speech and language therapy. You must always consult with a Speech Pathologist, GP and/or paediatrician if you have any concerns about your child's communication and/development