Wine with Wita

Hey everyone,This week’s episode is inspired by something I use often in the therapy room… a simple reminder that communication is more than words.​We so often focus on what children say… but not always on what they are showing us.​In this episode, I unpack how much meaning is carried through tone, gestures, and facial expression, and how these can completely change the way a child understands and communicates.​Because for many children, especially those with communication difficulties, words alone are not enough.​I talk about:💫 Why communication is about what we show, not just what we say💫 How tone of voice can completely change meaning💫 The power of pointing and gestures in building understanding💫 How facial expressions help children interpret emotions and messages💫 Simple, practical ways you can support your child’s communication every day💫 Why these small shifts can create stronger connection and confidence​This episode is a gentle reminder that communication is a shared experience. And sometimes, the smallest changes in how we show up can make the biggest 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 share a heartfelt solo episode on a phrase I hear so often in the therapy room… “This is not what I expected for my child.”​We unpack the emotional weight behind this and the reality so many parents face after a diagnosis. The grief of unmet expectations, the uncertainty, and the quiet moments where everything feels overwhelming.​Because often, it is not just the diagnosis that is hard. It is the shift in the future you once imagined.​I talk about:💫 The impact of expectations and how they can lead to disappointment💫 The emotional reality parents experience after a diagnosis💫 Why early support and understanding can change everything💫 The importance of letting go of the child you expected and embracing the child in front of you💫 How children with additional needs teach families a deeper level of compassion and connection💫 Why celebrating small moments and strengths creates a more empowering path forward​This episode is a gentle reminder that while the journey may look different, it is still filled with meaning, growth, and moments of joy you may not have expected.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 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,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 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 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, 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.

Hey everyone,This week, I sit down with cake designer, business owner andsoon-to-be kitchen-therapy creator Daniella Park, the powerhouse behind Buttercream Lane.Daniella left school at 16 due to severe dyslexia, taughtherself to bake through YouTube and went on to build one of Australia’s most recognisable cake brands. Her story is one of resilience, purpose, faith and finding joy in places others overlook.She shares what it was like navigating school while masking her learning difficulties, the moment a professional labelled her “intellectually impaired” and how that fire pushed her toward creativity, connection and a career that has touched thousands of families.​She also speaks about her ambassador work, including representing charities alongside Deborra-Lee Furness and Hugh Jackman, a full-circle moment for a girl once told she wouldn’t succeed academically.​We talk about:💫 Growing up with severe dyslexia and why so many children slip through the cracks💫 The 80:20 rule for parents and why confidence, joy and purpose matter more than “fixing”💫 Baking as connection, regulation and communication for kids with learning needs💫 Her ambassador roles and how storytelling helps drive awareness and inclusion💫 Her high-risk pregnancy, surrendering control and finding strength through faith💫 Why she’s now creating kitchen therapy to help children self-soothe, feel safe and open up through hands-on cookingClick here to learn more about Daniella!​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 disability advocate and motivational speaker Kyle “Willpower,” a man who has been defying expectations since he was diagnosed with Charcot Marie Tooth disease at just five years old.​Kyle shares what it was really like growing up as “the onlydisabled kid at school” in a small country town, from athletics carnivals and soccer on legs that would not cooperate, to the bullying, the long pants, and the cover stories he used for years to hide his disability.​We also talk about the moment everything shifted - when hedecided to stop hiding, step into the gym, lose 40 kilos and start showing up online exactly as he is. That discipline and mindset now flow into his life as a business owner, running 11 Airbnb's, creating content and building new ventures that work with his body, not against it.​We talk about:💫 Growing up with CMT and refusing to sit on the sidelines💫 The reality of bullying, shame and hiding his disability for years💫 How fitness, discipline and losing 40 kilos changed his life💫 From horse manure and computer repairs to running 11 Airbnb's💫 The message he wants every parent of a disabled child to hear about fear, risk and “letting them have a go”💫 Why you are not your diagnosis, and how to stop building your whole identity around itIf you want to learn more about Kyle, follow his journey here.​​Lots of love,RitaP.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 yourchild's communication and/development.

Hey everyone,This week, I sit down with Canberra Raiders coach and Dally Mwinner, Ricky Stuart, a man who has redefined what success truly means.​Behind the titles and trophies is a father who has spent nearlythree decades navigating life with his daughter, Emma, who is autistic and non-speaking. In our conversation, Ricky opens up about the lessons Emma has taught him, the challenges and joy of parenting, and how those experiences shaped not only the way he leads, but the way he lives.​He also shares how his family’s journey inspired the creation of The Ricky Stuart Foundation, building two respite centres in Canberra and now working toward a new independent living home to give other families the same opportunity for hopeand support.​We talk about:​💫 How becoming Emma’s dad reshaped Ricky’s definition of success💫 The reality of raising a non-speaking autistic daughter and why patience matters💫 The Ricky Stuart Foundation and building two respite centres in Canberra💫 Why independent living changed life for Emma and the whole family💫Practical advice for parents in the early stages after diagnosis💫 Why every child deserves a fair go and how communitysupport makes a differenceTo learn more about the Ricky Stuart Foundation, visit his website here.​​Lots of love,RitaP.S.: follow me on Instagram for more tips,insights and updatesDisclaimer: 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.

Hey everyone,As we wrap up Carers Month and our special collaboration with ENVISAGE Families, I am joined by Penny Graham.Penny is a mum of four, a social worker with over 20 years of experience, and a facilitator with ENVISAGE Families. Her youngest son, Al, lives with complex disabilities, and through him, Penny has become an incredible advocate for inclusion and belonging.This conversation is heartfelt, reflective and deeply encouraging. Penny shares how her mantra, “let’s give it a go,” opened doors for Al in mainstream schooling, community sport and everyday life. She reminds us that inclusion begins with curiosity, courage and a willingness to try.We talk about:Seeing communication beyond words and recognising your child’s cuesHow small acts of advocacy can create big ripple effects Finding your place and your people in community Balancing care, hope and self-compassionBelieving in what’s possible, even when systems say otherwiseTo learn more about Envisage Families, have a look here.Lots of love,RitaP.S.: follow me on Instagram for more tips, insights and updates.This episode of Wine with Wita is brought to you by Envisage Families, a program designed to empower parents and caregivers raising children with developmental differences.As a speechie and a mum, I love how Envisage provides research-based strategies, practical tools, and a community that truly understands the journey of caregiving. It is about giving families the confidence, support, and connection they need to thrive. 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.