Better Being Me

In the April episode of Better Being Me’s podcast Talking Twaddle, host Joanne Hatchard talks to neurodivergent children’s author Beck Newell about their books, studies, parenting, gender, more books, emotions, mental health issues, threat of homelessness, catastrophizing and future thinking, and more books! Joanne opens the conversation with Beck, pointing out their list of books that they have published in the past eighteen months. Beck thanks hyper-focus, and points out that finishing things hasn’t always been their strong point. This leads to a conversation about studies - completing and not completing, the reasons we study what we study, what it looks like when you don’t realise you’re autistic, how studying compares to the “real world” of the workforce, and studying while being a parent. The pair then move on to talking about parenting autistic kids when it isn’t recognised by professionals, and the impact this has. Beck shares stories about when they realised their third child is autistic, and about their grandchildren as well. The topic of gender is covered, and Beck talks about their youngest child. Who was born Morgan, but now identifies as Pete. They talk about where there has been support with this transition, and who struggled with it the most. They also briefly touch on their own journey of identifying as non-binary. Body positivity is discussed, highlighting Beck’s book EVERYbody is Incredible. And they also discuss My Friend the Tiger, which Beck dedicated to Joanne AFTER realising that her little stuffed lovey George is in fact a tiger. They talk about the complexity of friendships. They cover the concept of whether when we’re seeing autism if it’s borrowed traits from those around us or if the autism is within ourselves. Beck talks about her daughter being convinced that the former was true for her, for a long time before she accepted her diagnosis. Emotions are then touched on, and Beck talks about how deeply they feel emotions, and about being called a “drama queen” throughout their life. Catastrophizing and future thinking are also covered, in relation to Beck recently almost becoming homeless. And finding a middle ground between preparing for the worse and not worrying at all! The interplay between mental health issues and autism closes out the discussion. Find Beck’s books at the links below or email becknewellcreative@gmail.com https://www.facebook.com/becknewellcreative https://www.instagram.com/becknewell_creative/

In the February episode of Better Being Me’s podcast Talking Twaddle, host Joanne Hatchard talks to guest Allison Davies about death, emotions, technology, and division of tasks in the home. Their conversation opens with the topic of death, prompted by the recent passing of Allison’s 97 year old grandmother. They really delve into the topic, which is often a tricky one, with refreshing candour and insight. They speak very frankly and openly about how neurodivergence plays a role in how we perceive, feel and express emotions such as grief and love. How we navigate these emotions with the people in our lives, and how they have each come to find a way of understanding themselves when it comes to their feelings. They also both touch on the importance of having an understanding and supportive spouse, and how they each knew they had found “the one”. The topic of technology arises, and Joanne and Allison find they are almost opposites on this subject. We are regaled with a hilarious story from Allison about her parents’ gate that you have to ring on a phone (you won’t believe until you hear it!), and they talk about how technology can be both helpful and unhelpful for the neurodivergent mind. Last but not least the burning question of front or top loader is answered! And Joanne and Allison speak briefly of the household tasks they prefer and what living in a neurodivergent household can look like. And then they come back to death! Better Being Me Socials: FB: https://www.facebook.com/Betterbeingme IG: https://instagram.com/betterbeingme_bbme YouTube: https://youtube.com/@betterbeingme Website: https://betterbeingme.com.au Allison Davies Socials: FB:https://www.facebook.com/allisondavies.com.au IG:https://www.instagram.com/allisondavies_musicandthebrain/ Website: https://allisondavies.com.au

Very strange thing happened over the weekend that I wasn't expecting in anyway shape or form. Which would probably add to my reaction, but I don’t see how I could have prepare myself for what transpired. I have to prefix this to say that I did not have that much sleep that night before and I was feeling a little emotional and tender to begin with. However, I share my story because I dont feel alone in the connections that I made, and I feel like it is good for me to share and get light in old stories. Top three take away. 1. You have no idea where emotional reactions will blindside you. Become thankful for them, and not fear them. They are a timely reminder to process your shit and be done with it. Not one got hurt by your ugly cry, but you will be holding in hurt if you dont process your reaction. 2. YOU ARE WORTH TIME. YOU ARE WORTH ENERGY. YOU ARE WORTH LOVE. and no you dont have to perfect to be worthy. You are allowed to make mistakes and get confused and be wrong. It is how you process those mistakes that will help you. Being right all the time is like walking on a tightrope. You dont get to wavier, and it is scary, and hurts your feet... Learning to fall and fail means you can become fearless. 3. You have no idea which ways you are going to impact your child. Trying to predict and mitigate creates new and wondrous ways your can stuff up. Just ask Oedipus. Best you can aim for is making sure your stuff is sorted, as it comes up, as it passes by. That is how I learn to be better, to do better. I am allowed mistakes, I own them and process them and ask for forgiveness, and aim not to do them again. Last tip - importation came from strange places. Let it.

I have just finished attending webinar hosted by @wwda_au on NDIS and Gender. Amazing source of information and support. I am not overly surprised to report that there are more males receiving NDIS support then females. Which is not a direct relationship between the number of men vs females with disabilities. So what you might say. I can only provide insight from my experience and knowledge. From my son's journey, and my own research and contemplations I see myself on the spectrum. I am fairly typical in the female presentation of autism, and I am getting quicker at identifying my own stress, sensory overwhelm, emotional shut down and numbing behaviour. Here is the jam, I will promote and support any parent going through the assessment and NDIS processes because it makes a difference. I will encourage parents to not fear the process, to ask me all the questions, to move the fear, to get the support, to see that your child will be your child whether you get the diagnosis or not, but how much stress and burden it can be without a diagnosis. I cheer on as other mothers are getting their diagnosis, because like me, through support their child's journey they have found a place for them. Yet, me, I am scared to do it for myself. I have a diagnosis of dyslexia, maybe that is enough. That is enough to know my brain is different. I know in myself that I am different. Why should I face the process? Maybe I shouldn't rock the boat, be grateful for what I have. Be quite, sit still, shut up. Maybe that is why there is significantly less females supported by NDIS. Because I am scared that what I feel is true, is wrong. That I will be told that my difference just doesn’t have a place. That I don’t have a place. That yet again I misunderstood what was happening, and I will be made to feel a fool. I can pass. I can get through. But have I really been thriving or just surviving. So it is with great pride to say, that I will be taking an assessment, in steps to get a formal diagnosis, and NDIS support. The process starts in October. Be the change you want to see.

Jess’s artworks bring brightness and light to the world with their vibrant colours and inspiring imagery. Recently Jess has been using her artworks to bring objects to life too so that her clients can take that joy with them wherever they go. It is so important to see the beautiful colour in life that surrounds you and to feel that joy in your heart when you see it! Jess much more than an artist, she is a survivor! Jess was in the throws of antidepressant withdrawal hell. Jess didn’t know then what she knows now. Jess didn’t know that withdrawing from antidepressants takes time and it’s a long journey. Jess didn’t know then that what was happening in her head had so much more to do with what was happening in her entire body. As Jess crashed at the bottom of a dark ravine, she began to claw her way back up and learn so much more about herself and the world of mental and holistic health along the way. As Jess climbed up the mountain and began telling her entire story at each stop, people would thank her for sharing that vulnerability. It meant that they were not alone on their own journey up the mountain. As Jess learns, she shares what she knows to help others. Jess is now tapering from her antidepressants again but with so much more knowledge. Knowledge that Jess would like to share with you to brighten and light the wayJoanne's Biggest take aways from this interview1. Recognise the stressKnow what you feel when you are stressed. How does it feel in your body, what are you doing to self medicate the stress, how are you reacting to people in your life. There will be many signs of stress before you hit depression. Take the time to recognise them, talk about it more. Get the help at any stage. 2. The ups and downs help you navigate lifeAnti-depressant tablets take away the ups and downs of life. They also hamper your ability to feel into your life about what is good and what is bad for you. It is not an easy road to be on, and you don't need to go it alone. Take stock of your life, deal with the choices, and the ramifications. Ask for help at any stage. 3. Use your intuition enough that you trust your intuitionTrust in yourself takes time, and choices, and ups and downs. Understanding your full gamut of emotions means that you will be able to recognise the pushes and pulls of your intuition. It is a free tool that will always be there, but it takes time to recognise and utilise. LINK TO JESS'S BOOKhttps://jesscrawford.com.au/product/my-way-book/SOCIAL MEDIA LINKS FOR JESS CRAWFORDwww.jesscrawford.com.au www.facebook.com/jesscrawfordart www.instagram.com/_jesscrawford_SOCIAL MEDIA LINKS FOR BETTER BEING MECourses and Sign UpFB: BetterBeingMeIG: BetterBeingMe_BBmeWeb: https://betterbeingme.com.au

Georgy is more that just BadAss Living, she is a powerhouse of ideas, and here to bolster the woman of the world. Encouraging all to take up space, share their voice and stand up to be counted.Georgy's work with Girls Rock! is inspirational, as is the organisation that "uses the medium of music to inspire confidence, creativity and celebrate individuality for females, trans and gender non-conforming youth between the ages of 10 and 17."Here are the big ideas1. Be the person you needed as a child. Because of the work Georgy is doing with Girls Rock! she is supporting and eradicating ideas of conforming and self containment at an even younger age. The frustrations of having to feel small and apologies for taking space are a socially constructed, so getting rid of that feeling before it takes hold and forms such a large space in your living is a gift to the younger generation. 2. Being Good for you doesn't give up the PleasuresKnow the messages your body is sending you and act on it. If you need rest, rest. If you need to leave, leave. Make no apology for doing what is best for you. The first step is knowing what you need, implement it in any way you can, and build from there. 3. Bringing Sexy BackIt is more than a feeling, it is a way of living. Bring out your biggest self, feel the sexy in all you do and bring on the magnetism. Georgy new program Body Brave encompasses the ideas Georgy feel on putting your best self forward - 7 day program for women to embody self love, body confidence and stepping into ALL of their badass-nessCheck her out on all of the things All the things: Georgy RochowIG: Georgy_RochowFB: GeorgyRochowMusicWebsite: BadAssLiving - Body Brave releasing in February. Tunes: https://georgyrochow.bandcamp.com/releases Follow JoanneIG: Better Being MeWebsite: https://betterbeingme.com.au/Watch for the new release of the Better Being Me Online program, do the work, be connected, be calm, be you.

Today we dive into all things Melanie.She is a certified integrative women’s health coach, yoga teacher, personal trainer, and soulful business coach for women who desire more energy, time & freedom. Naturally gifted as a nurturing intuitive feminine energy healer Melanie supporting mothers and women worldwide to live well – body, mind, and soul Through her teachings, online programs, social media platforms, and in-person events, Melanie encourages women to live differently, go against the grain and to understand themselves on a deep level that allows them to live in sync with their cyclical nature.With a deep understanding of how women work, Melanie encourages you to question everything and learn to trust your own heartfelt knowing and wisdom. Having worked with and supported mothers through motherhood, mothers-to-be through their fertility journey, women through life-changing events and journeys, Melanie has the knowledge, experience and compassion to guide you to where you want to go.IG: melanie_hansen_FB: Melanie HansenWebsite: https://melaniehansen.com.au/Rise Events for 2021Thursday 18th FebThursday 29th AprilWednesday 23rd JuneThursday 19th AugustWednesday 20th OctoberThursday 25th November