Get to know Lara Schenck as she bravely shares her heartbreaking journey to motherhood. One shaped by profound loss, unwavering love, and the quiet, daily courage it takes to keep moving forward.   Through moments of grief, reflection, and resilience, Lara opens her heart to the complexities of longing, healing, and hope.   Her story explores what it means to honor loss without being consumed by it, and how happiness can still exist alongside heartbreak.   With honesty and vulnerability, Lara offers a deeply human perspective of motherhood, reminding us that love never disappears it transforms, guiding us toward meaning, connection, and a future shaped by both loss and light. 

In this episode, we break down one of the most commonly misunderstood systems in Australia the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS).   If you’ve ever felt confused, overwhelmed, or unsure about what the NDIS actually is and how it works, this episode is for you.   We explore the purpose of the NDIS, who it supports, how eligibility works, and what participants can access once they’re in the scheme. You’ll also learn the difference between plan management options, and the realities behind navigating the system for the first time.   Whether you’re a participant, a family member, a support worker, or just curious, this episode will give you a clear, grounded, and easy-to-understand overview of the NDIS without the jargon. Enjoy!

Get to know Nathan Stewart as he opens up about the hidden wounds of childhood trauma and the long shadows it can cast over adulthood.   Nathan takes us through the realities of growing up in an environment marked by pain, instability, and silence, and how those early experiences shaped his battles with mental health, addiction, and self-destruction.   From alcohol and drug abuse to moments of isolation and suicidal thoughts, Nathan speaks with raw vulnerability about the coping mechanisms that once helped him survive—but nearly cost him everything.    Through reflection, accountability, and a commitment to healing, he shares how he slowly began to unravel the beliefs and patterns rooted in his past. Enjoy!

In this episode, we unpack the facts about invisible disabilities, why they’re often misunderstood, and why so many people are silently struggling without recognition or support.   This episode shines a light on the emotional and physical realities of hidden conditions and the importance of empathy, awareness, and believing people when they say they’re in pain.   I open up about my own journey navigating an invisible injury sharing the parts of my story that usually stay private—the pain, the exhaustion, the overwhelm, the misunderstandings, and the constant pressure to appear “normal.”   I talk about what everyday life looks like behind the scenes, how my injury changed me, and what it really means to live with a disability that others can’t see.   If you or someone you love lives with a hidden disability or injury, this episode is for you. Enjoy!

Tune in next week as we speak to Dr Emma Beckett a Registered Nutritionist and PhD-qualified food and nutrition scientist, about the intricate relationship between gut health and mental wellbeing, emphasizing the bidirectional communication between the gut and the brain.    Dr Emma's instagram: @dremmabeckett   Key takeaways The gut and brain communicate through signaling molecules Gut health can significantly impact mental wellbeing Mental wellbeing is affected by what happens in the gut The gut-brain connection is a two-way street Cultural satisfaction from eating plays a role in mental health Understanding gut health can lead to better mental health strategies The body's behavior is influenced by gut health Awareness of gut-brain interactions can improve overall health Through our chat Dr Emma highlights how gut bacteria produce signaling molecules that influence brain behavior and vice versa, while also considering the social and cultural aspects of eating that contribute to mental health. Enjoy!  

In this episode, we unpack one of the most debated topics in psychology and mental health: diagnostic labels. Do they bring clarity and validation—or do they box people in?   We explore how diagnostic terms like “depression,” “ADHD,” or “anxiety disorder” can guide treatment and understanding, but also how they can lead to stigma, self-limiting beliefs, and misrepresentation.   Join us as we talk through the benefits, the drawbacks, and the gray areas in between. Featuring real-world examples, expert insights, and honest reflections on the language we use to describe the human mind. Enjoy!

In this powerful episode, we sit down with Sean Phillip, founder of the nationally recognised mental health and prevention charity 'The Shaka Project', to explore his personal journey through mental health challenges and suicidal ideation. A journey that led him to find purpose and, in turn, create one of Australia’s most inspiring mental health movements for change.   Sean speaks with raw honesty about his lived experience, the moments that shaped him, and the turning point that inspired him.   What began as a personal mission to raise awareness has grown into a nationally recognised mental health and suicide prevention charity, a community driven movement dedicated to breaking down the stigma surrounding men’s mental health through open conversations, education, and genuine connection.   Throughout the episode, Sean shares how The Shaka Project has evolved from merchandise, local talks and social media advocacy to national workshops and community events that bring people together to talk, listen, and support one another.   This episode is a powerful reminder that mental health doesn’t discriminate and that through compassion, courage, and conversation, we can all play a part in changing the statistics and building stronger, more supportive communities. Enjoy!

Let’s explore mental health, mental illness, and neurodivergence in the workplace, and how we can create environments that are genuinely inclusive, compassionate, and supportive for everyone.   I share insights from my own experiences working in this space, along with practical ideas for employers, managers, and colleagues who want to make a real difference.   We talk about the importance of understanding the nuances between mental health and mental illness, the unique challenges faced by neurodivergent employees, and what true psychological safety looks like in action.   Whether you’re leading a team, shaping workplace policy, or navigating your own journey with mental health or neurodivergence, this episode offers tools, perspective, and encouragement to help you build more inclusive and understanding workplaces. Enjoy!

Get to know Laura Hellfeld as we discuss the world of Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA), self-care, and neuro-affirming support.   Join us as we explore the unique challenges individuals with PDA face, the importance of creating a supportive, understanding environment, and how self-care practices can be tailored for neurodiverse individuals.   Laura shares valuable insights on fostering acceptance, managing stress, sleep and advocating for the needs of those who navigate life through a neurodivergent lens.   Whether you're a caregiver, a professional, or simply curious about neurodiversity, this conversation offers practical advice and compassionate strategies for creating a more inclusive world. Enjoy!   Where to find Laura Hellfeld Website: https://laurahellfeld.co.uk/ Instagram: laura.nd.nurse.consulting

Lets take an in-depth look at Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), a condition that affects millions of people worldwide, yet remains widely misunderstood.   We break down the science, the symptoms, and the challenges that those living with OCD face every day. From intrusive thoughts to compulsive behaviors, we explore how OCD manifests in different people, and how it impacts ones life in often hidden ways.   Host Josie Maskell brings her own lived experience into the conversation, offering a raw and honest perspective on what it’s really like to navigate life with OCD. Whether you’re personally affected by OCD or simply want to understand it better, this episode will challenge the stereotypes surrounding this mental health condition. Whether you're someone who struggles with OCD or just want to understand it better, this episode will shed light on the complexities of this mental health disorder and challenge the stereotypes that often surround it.   To add an unexpected twist, we’ll also use a playful game of Mario Kart to highlight how OCD can show up in surprising ways. Tune in to uncover the truths behind OCD that often go overlooked and enjoy the ride along the way. Enjoy!

Get to know Nath as we explore the transformative power of human connection in the journey of healing and personal growth.   Nath opens up about his own experiences, reflecting on the impact that addiction, drugs, alcohol, and even thoughts of suicide have had on his life. He shares his personal journey through these dark moments and how it was only through leaning into vulnerability, confronting discomfort, and building meaningful connections that he found the strength to rebuild.   We dive into the often-overlooked role of discomfort in personal development, discussing how leaning into vulnerability though difficult times can unlock profound moments of self-awareness and resilience.   Nath shares his insights on why true healing doesn’t come from avoiding pain, but from embracing it, even when it feels insurmountable.   This conversation touches on the harsh realities of addiction and suicidal thoughts, but also explores the hope and possibility that emerge when we reach out for help, face our demons head-on, and allow ourselves to heal with the support of others.   Nath's story is a powerful reminder of the courage it takes to show up for ourselves and others, especially when we’re at our lowest points.   Whether you're navigating your own mental health journey, struggling with addiction, or simply seeking deeper connections, this episode offers valuable insights on the importance of vulnerability, empathy, and finding strength in the relationships that can help carry us through our darkest times.   @nathhryann shares some wonderful takeaways throughout this episode, shown below.   "Comparison is the thief of joy" A powerful and timeless quote, often attributed to Theodore Roosevelt. It captures the idea that constantly comparing ourselves to others can rob us of the contentment and satisfaction we might otherwise feel.   Nath touched on a powerful metaphor Stephen Fry used in discussing depression and mental health. Fry described depression as feeling like it’s "raining in your head" a constant, overwhelming weight of darkness and heaviness. But, importantly, he emphasized that just as the weather changes, the sun will eventually come out. Nath referred to this metaphor when discussing his own mental health struggles.   Nath refers to Simon Sinek's idea about how spending just 8 minutes of intentional, focused time with someone can profoundly impact their mental health and sense of belonging making them feel heard, seen and felt.   Enjoy!

Let's explore the wonderful world of therapy beyond just the traditional talk therapies. Therapy isn't a one-size-fits-all solution, and the right approach for you might be something you haven't even considered yet. From talk therapies to art therapy and sound healing to equine-assisted therapy and beyond, we dive into alternative options that cater to different personalities, needs, and preferences. Whether you're looking for something more creative, experiential, or outside the box, this episode will open your eyes to the many ways you can heal and grow. Support should feel safe, affirming, and actually accessible. Let’s rethink what therapy can look like. Tune in to discover the therapy options you didn't know existed. Enjoy!

Get to know Melissa and the world of sleep as we unpack the many contributing factors that often lead to burnout and how we avoid this for the whole family. In this episode, we are joined by Melissa De Wys a Baby & Toddler Sleep Consultant at The Little Sleeping Baby talk all things family life, sleep hygiene, and avoiding burnout. We dive into: Why sleep isn’t just about “getting 8 hours” How family dynamics impact mental wellness The signs of silent burnout we often miss Practical, realistic strategies to build better habits without overhauling your life Whether you're a parent, carer, or just someone trying to juggle it all without crashing — this conversation is full of relatable insights, gentle guidance, and support for doing wellbeing your way.   A reminder that everyone's story and journey looks different. This is Melissa's knowledge and expertise in the field. Enjoy!   @thelittlesleepingbaby

Let's unpack some behind-the-scenes podcast insights, personal reflections, listener and follower questions and what's coming next for Acronym Minds. Expect real talk, a few surprises, and some honest moments you didn’t know you needed. Whether you're a longtime (10 weeker) listener or just tuning in, this one feels like catching up with an old friend. Enjoy!

Get to know Monique as we hear about her experiences as a parent of a neurodivergent child, specifically focusing on Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).   Monique touches on her own diagnoses and the importance of understanding neurodivergence, the emotional impact of diagnosis, and the challenges and strengths that come with navigating your own diagnosis while raising a neurodivergent child.   Monique shares her journey with her daughters diagnosis, the process of seeking support, and the significance of labels in providing necessary resources.   A reminder that everyone's story and journey looks different. This is Monique's story and lived experience. Enjoy!

Let’s explore the rich and multifaceted world of diversity. While this is a broad and complex topic that can't be fully unpacked in a single episode, there are key areas that deserve immediate attention. In this conversation, we’ll highlight the importance of representation, cultural awareness, and inclusive thinking, especially in how we introduce these concepts to children. We will discuss practical ways to start these crucial conversations early, foster empathy, and help kids navigate a diverse world with openness and respect. Toddler friendly books on diversity: All Are Welcome by Alexandra Penfold We’re Different, We’re the Same (Sesame Street) The Family Book by Todd Parr Lovely by Jess Hong It’s Okay to Be Different by Todd Parr   More books on diversity: The Family Book - Todd Parr Its my body - Elise Gravel The same but different By Sarah Jennings   Books on intellectual disability: “My Brother Charlie” by Holly Robinson Peete (autism) Its okay to be different - Todd Parr “All My Stripes” by Shaina Rudolph (autism)   Enjoy!

Get to know Mel as we unpack her deeply personal journey, from experiencing trauma as a child to finding healing, purpose, and triumph through adulthood and motherhood. Mel opens up about the challenges she’s faced, the lessons she’s learned, and how she’s transformed pain into power, not only as a woman but now as a mother. In this episode, Mel also shares candidly about living with OCD, anxiety, and postpartum depression, and how a combination of everyday coping strategies and medication helps her manage these diagnoses. Whether you're navigating your own healing journey or supporting someone who is, this conversation offers honest insights, inspiration, and hope. It’s a raw and uplifting dialogue that reminds us growth is possible, even in the darkest moments. A reminder that everyone's story and journey looks different. This is Mel's story and lived experience. Enjoy!

Let’s unpack the five love languages — not just what they are, but how they connect to our mental and emotional wellbeing. Whether you're all about quality time or big on words of affirmation, understanding how you and those around you give and receive love can be a powerful tool for healing, connection, and self-awareness.   Book referenced: The 5 Love Languages by Gary Chapman Podcast episode mentioned: Mamamia Out Loud – You're A Bitch, And That's Why We Lack Community   Enjoy!

Get to know Jessi as we unpack the emotional rollercoaster that came from her first pregnancy and postpartum journey through to her second empowering and healing journey with her second daughter. While the goal was to have a Vaginal Birth After Caesarean (VBAC) Jessi found redemption through her second labour and birth, feeling empowered and informed when choosing to take this path again. Jessi shares her experience so openly, in hopes that it helps other parents feel less alone. A reminder that everyone's story and journey looks different. This is Jessi's story and lived experience. Enjoy! Jessi's aesthetically pleasing instagram page: @jessiabass 

Hear how becoming a Mum also helped me become a better version of myself mentally and how Motherhood helped me further understand my own mind and the areas I was no longer able to manage or mask. From Post Partum Anxiety and Post Partum Depression signs to a formal OCD diagnosis, hear how I navigate this and now manage it in my everyday life.