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"School can’t" is more than simply not wanting to go to school. For some Autistic students, the demands and stresses associated with school can become so overwhelming that attending feels difficult or even impossible. In this episode of a different brilliant®, host Madeleine Jaine Lobsey is joined by Tahlia Morgan, Head of Wellbeing at Aspect Vern Barnett School, and Tiffany Westphal, Director of School Can’t Australia, to explore what "school can’t" is and how parents, carers and educators can better support Autistic students experiencing school-related distress. Together, they unpack why the language we use matters, including the move away from terms such as “school refusal” that can suggest a student is making a deliberate choice not to attend. The conversation explores some of the sensory, social, cognitive and physiological stressors that can contribute to school can’t, as well as early signs of distress including masking, changes in behaviour, physical symptoms and difficulty transitioning into school. Whether you’re a parent or carer, educator, allied health professional or someone supporting an Autistic young person, this episode offers practical insights into recognising school can’t and working together to create learning environments where students can feel safe, supported and understood. Please note: This episode discusses school distress and difficult school experiences that some listeners may find upsetting. If you experience distress, please seek support through Lifeline on 13 11 14. All rights reserved © Further Resources: Aspect information sheet: School Can't https://www.aspect.org.au/uploads/documents/Information-Sheets/School_Refusal_information_sheet_March_2025.pdf School Can’t Australia – Understanding School Can’t and Parent / Carer Resource: https://www.schoolcantaustralia.com.au/resources-1 School Can’t Australia – Parent Guide to School Attendance Difficulties: https://www.schoolcantaustralia.com.au/parentresources/ Amaze – School can’t resources for parents/carers and teachers: https://www.amaze.org.au/support/resources/school-cant-resources-for-parents-carers-and-teachers/ Amaze – My School Experiences toolkit: https://www.amaze.org.au/2026/02/my-school-experiences-toolkit/ Autism Spectrum Australia (Aspect) – Aspect Distance Education: https://www.aspect.org.au/our-services/going-to-school/aspect-distance-education Lifeline Australia – Crisis support: https://www.lifeline.org.au/?_ga=2.55905443.926984944.1788849754-959480927.1788849753&_gac=1.155258569.1788849754.CjwKCAjwwfnUBhAtEiwAfQpAYt9OEdmMgUgiiVNqEhj_C8dV16QZscXvJRnwbmkUrHeIFccEHuQikBoCrZUQAvD_BwE

Learning to drive is a significant milestone but for Autistic young people there is no one-size-fits-all approach. In this episode of a different brilliant®, host Madeleine Jaine Lobsey is joined by Brad Williams, Founder and CEO of Williams OT, occupational therapist, driver assessor and driving instructor, and Jérôme Etteridge, Aspect teacher aide, former Aspect student and licensed driver. Drawing on professional expertise and lived experience, Brad shares practical insights on recognising driving readiness, building skills at the right pace and supporting learner drivers, while Jérôme reflects on his own experience of learning to drive, the challenges he overcame, and the independence and opportunities that driving has brought to his everyday life. Whether you're an Autistic young person, parent, carer or professional, this episode offers practical guidance, expert insights and lived experience to support learning to drive. © all rights reserved Further resources: Learning to drive – NSW information module: Independently prepared by Jérôme Etteridge, this resource provides a summary of learning to drive in NSW, including the driving process, road rules, available supports and information about the NDIS. The information was current as at 6 August 2026 and is based on NSW road rules.

In this episode of a different brilliant®, host Madeleine Jaine Lobsey is joined by Dr Fiona Aldridge, Clinical Psychologist and Manager of Aspect Assessments, to unpack the difference between an autism assessment and a functional capacity assessment. Dr Aldridge explains what each assessment is designed to do, why they answer different questions, and how they work together to provide a more complete understanding of an individual's strengths, support needs and experiences. The conversation also explores why an autism diagnosis can be about much more than accessing services. For many people, it provides clarity, validation, self-understanding and a foundation for more personalised, autism-informed support. Whether you're an Autistic person, parent, educator, health professional or someone exploring an autism diagnosis later in life, this episode provides practical, neuro-affirming information to help you navigate the assessment journey. To learn more about Aspect Assessments, visit: https://www.aspect.org.au/our-services/autism-assessment-diagnosis Understanding autism, ADHD and neurodiversity: https://www.aspect.org.au/about-autism/information-sheets/understanding-autism-neurodiversity-info-sheets ® all rights reserved

In this episode of a different brilliant®, host Madeleine Jaine Lobsey speaks with Autistic social entrepreneur, researcher and systems innovator Dr Sharon Zivkovic about why entrepreneurship can be an employment pathway for Autistic people. Together, they explore the barriers Autistic people often face in traditional employment, including workplace culture, sensory challenges and recruitment processes, and discuss how self-employment and social entrepreneurship can offer greater autonomy, flexibility and wellbeing. Dr Sharon Zivkovic shares insights into Autistic strengths such as deep interests, systems thinking, pattern recognition and innovative problem-solving, explaining why these qualities can make Autistic people exceptional entrepreneurs and changemakers. The conversation also examines how Autistic thinking differs from neurotypical approaches, why society needs Autistic innovation, and how strength-based, neurodiversity-affirming supports could help more Autistic people thrive. All rights reserved.

This episode of A Different Brilliant explores what inclusive recruitment really looks like in practice, and why current hiring systems are failing Autistic people. Host, Madeline Jaine Lobsey is joined by Kristy Kelly, Manager of Aspect’s Autism Friendly Employment Service, and Jana Zafirovska, Director of Customer Success and Principal Architect (APAC) at HireVue Australia. Together, they unpack the systemic barriers that prevent highly capable Autistic candidates from progressing through recruitment, despite strong motivation and skills. Drawing on Aspect’s Autism Friendly Employment (AFE) approach and HireVue’s work in reimagining hiring through technology and design, this conversation explores how traditional recruitment processes, often built on outdated assumptions, continue to filter out the very talent organisations are seeking to include. The episode also highlights Aspect and HireVue’s collaboration on developing an inclusive recruitment guide and broader thought leadership, offering practical insights into how employers can design fairer, more accessible hiring processes. From job descriptions and screening tools through to interview design and workplace adjustments, this discussion challenges “the way we’ve always done it” and provides a pathway forward. Whether you’re an employer, recruiter, or Autistic jobseeker, this episode offers valuable perspectives on creating more inclusive, effective and human-centred employment practices. Further resources and reading: Autism Friendly Employment: https://www.aspect.org.au/our-services/aspect-autism-friendly-employment About Aspect (Autism Spectrum Australia): Aspect is one of Australia’s largest autism-specific service providers, with one of the world’s most extensive autism-specific educational programs. A not-for-profit organisation, we work in partnership with people of all ages on the autism spectrum to co-develop, co-produce and co-deliver supports and services that are individualised, goal driven and grounded in evidence-based practices. Stay Connected: Subscribe to our channel for more videos. Visit our website: https://www.aspect.org.au/ Linktree: https://linktr.ee/Aspect.Links Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe! Contact Us: For more information, or to discuss how we can help you, please contact our customer service team on 1800 277 328.

In this episode, Aspect CEO Jacqui Borland and Autism Friendly Employment Manager Kristy Kelly speak with NDIS Minister Jenny McAllister about the Australian Government’s Thriving Kids program. Together, they explore what the program means for children with developmental delay and children on the autism spectrum, and how it will support families to access help earlier. Drawing on questions from the autism community, the conversation covers how Thriving Kids will work alongside the NDIS, whether a diagnosis is required, and what supports may look like in practice. It also highlights the role of educators, GPs and allied health professionals in early identification and support. This episode is for parents, carers and professionals seeking information about the future of early childhood supports in Australia. All rights reserved Resources Thriving Kids – Fact SheetThriving Kids Advisory Group Final Report (Report, Summary and Easy Read)Positive PartnershipsThriving Kids service Design Engagement and ConsultationAspect’s position on Thriving Kids

In this episode of A Different Brilliant, we speak with Craig Smith, Manager of Technology and Innovation for Positive Partnerships. Craig shares his valuable knowledge and experience which is informed by his experience as a classroom teacher along with his work and collaboration with experts from around the world in the area of inclusive and neurodiversity affirming education practices. This episode explores the evolving role of technology and artificial intelligence in today’s classrooms and what it means for students, educators, and the future of inclusive education. We unpack how AI is already shaping teaching and learning, from personalised learning tools to supporting diverse communication and engagement needs. The conversation highlights both the opportunities and challenges and discusses how technology can enhance learning without replacing meaningful connections in education. Whether you’re a teacher, parent, or simply curious about the future of technology and inclusive education, this episode offers some thought-provoking perspectives on navigating technology and AI in the classroom. All rights reserved.

In this episode, Dr Chris Edwards (Aspect) and Dr Paul Constable (Flinders University) share what their recent eye care research reveals about the experiences of Autistic adults, parents of Autistic children and eye care professionals. Blending lived experience, research insights and hands-on clinical knowledge, they talk about why eye health is often overlooked, what makes typical eye care settings challenging, and what can be done to make appointments calmer, clearer and more accessible. Resource: Accessible eye care for Autistic people guide for vision professionals All rights reserved

In this powerful episode of A Different Brilliant, host Madeleine Jaine Lobsey is joined by Eliza Tait, a recent Year 12 graduate, disability advocate and former Deputy Premier of the New South Wales Youth Parliament to explore what inclusive education truly looks like from a student’s perspective. Drawing on her lived experience as a twice-exceptional autistic student, Eliza shares her journey through public, private and specialist education settings, reflecting on the challenges of diagnosis at age 14, burnout, mental health struggles and navigating different school systems. The conversation also delves into Eliza’s advocacy and policy work, including her time as the youth deputy premier. Eliza highlights the importance of co-design, student voice and universal design for learning, challenging decision-makers to rethink outdated structures that prioritise compliance over genuine learning. With insight, compassion and clarity, this episode is a compelling call to action for educators, policymakers, parents and young people alike — reminding us that inclusive education is not about one-size-fits-all solutions, but about listening, adapting and ensuring every student feels safe, valued and able to thrive. All rights reserved

This podcast episode explores Autistic people's experiences of pregnancy, birth and early parenthood. Host, Madeleine Jaine Lobsey speaks with Dr Abbey Love from the Aspect Research Centre for Autism Practice (ARCAP) about insights from her research into Autistic perinatal experiences, including the sensory, communication and systemic challenges many parents face alongside the strengths, competence and self-advocacy that also emerge. The conversation highlights how this research led to the creation of the award-winning Aspect Autistic Pregnancy and Parenthood Hub, a pioneering digital resource supporting Autistic parents and helping healthcare professionals create safer, more inclusive perinatal care experiences. Resources: Autistic Pregnancy and Parenthood Hub: aspect.org.au/new-parents All rights reserved

In this episode of A Different Brilliant, host Madeline Jaine Lobsey sits down with social worker and behaviour support practitioner Bella Smythe for an open and empowering conversation about neurodiversity, co-occurring experiences, and what it means to create genuinely neuro-affirming environments. Bella shares insights from her years of experience supporting Autistic people, including her work in Aspect’s Adult Community Services, and reflects on identity, language, acceptance, and the systems that shape our wellbeing. This episode is warm, practical and deeply relatable for Autistic people, families, carers, educators and anyone wanting to better understand the richness of neurodivergent experiences. All rights reserved.

In this episode of a different brilliant, host Madeline Jane Lobsey is joined by Sandee Facy, Hd of Business Development for Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Australia & New Zealand (via Bayley House), and Matt Oastler (he/they), Aspect Autism Friendly Melbourne Team Leader, to explore how the Sunflower symbol and Autism Friendly practices work together to make everyday life more welcoming for Autistic people and others with hidden disabilities. Drawing on lived experience and practical examples, Sandee and Matt unpack what the Sunflower is (and isn’t), why it helps people signal a need for time, space, or support without disclosing diagnoses, and how Aspect’s Autism Friendly team partners with organisations to turn good intentions into tangible change — from quiet rooms and familiarisation sessions to visual stories, sensory maps, and inclusive workplace design. Topics include: What the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower is and who it’s forHow the Sunflower supports Autistic people and others with non-visible disabilitiesStarting supportive interactions without disclosureHow Aspect’s Autism Friendly team assesses spaces and trains staffReal-world examples: airports, museums, stadiums, Legoland, and librariesCreating Sunflower-friendly and Autism Friendly workplacesPractical resources and inclusive design strategies for businesses Whether you’re an Autistic adult, a parent or carer, an educator or allied health professional, or a business leader aiming to lift inclusion, this episode offers clear, actionable ideas you can use right away. Practical info: A person can get a Sunflower lanyard in two ways: 1️⃣ Purchase a lanyard from www.hdsunflower.com/au 2️⃣ Find a complimentary lanyard at a Sunflower Friendly organisation near you using the Sunflower Map Additional resources: Hidden Disabilities Sunflower ANZ (via Bayley House) — awareness training and accessibility partnershipsAspect Autism Friendly — consultancy, environmental assessments, staff training, and resources for organisations. All rights reserved.

In this episode, host Madeleine Jaine Lobsey chats with Mel Spencer OAM, CEO of Different Journeys, who draws on her lived experience and professional expertise to discuss unpaid carers of Autistic people. Mel explores the key challenges and barriers carers face, the supports available, and what can be done to help carers balance their responsibilities with their own wellbeing, personal goals and community participation. All rights reserved.

In this episode of a different brilliant, Dr James Best reflects on his journey as both a father of an Autistic son and a GP, sharing the challenges and insights he’s gained along the way. He offers practical advice on staying connected, balancing family life and the important role fathers play in raising Autistic children. All rights reserved.

In this episode of a different brilliant, host Madeleine Jane Lobsey is joined by Jennifer Lowe, autism researcher and PhD candidate at La Trobe University’s Olga Tennison Autism Research Centre, to explore a subject often avoided but deeply human: grief. Jennifer shares her lived experience alongside insights from her research into how Autistic people process grief and bereavement. Together, they discuss how grief extends beyond the death of a loved one, pet, or friend. For many Autistic people, the loss of routines, meaningful objects, or everyday familiarity can also evoke feelings of grief. Topics include: Defining grief in an Autistic contextAutistic experiences of bereavementAnticipatory grief and first experiences of lossObjects, routines, and the meaning of everyday lossesSupporting autistic people through griefStrategies for families, educators and professionalsReflections on wider cultural approaches to death Whether you’re an Autistic adult, a parent or carer, or a professional supporting neurodivergent people, this episode offers both practical insights and moving lived experience. Please note: This episode discusses sensitive themes. If you experience distress, please seek support through Lifeline on 13 11 14 or the services below. Additional resources: Aspect’s self-compassion program: https://www.aspect.org.au/our-research/evidence-informed-guides-programs/aspaa Beyond Blue: https://www.beyondblue.org.au/ Headspace: https://headspace.org.au/ Black Dog Institute: https://www.blackdoginstitute.org.au/resources-support/ All rights reserved.