Explore every episode of the podcast Eden Equips

In part two of our anniversary episode of Eden Equips, we continue the conversation around supporting neurodivergent children and young people.

This time we're looking at real situations parents and educators face, from challenging school rules and making movement breaks accessible to understanding sensory needs and knowing what to do when nothing seems to be working.

We also share some encouragement for parents, teachers and young people navigating their own journeys.

If you haven't listened to part one, make sure to catch up.

To celebrate 25 episodes and one year of Eden Equips, we’ve brought some of our previous guests around one table.

We talk about where to start when supporting a neurodivergent child, trusting parents, advocacy, understanding behaviour, dropping expectations and the importance of feeling heard.

Lots of different experiences, perspectives and practical thoughts in one conversation. And there’s more to come in part two.

In this solo episode of Eden Equips, Rebecca shares two thoughts that have stuck with her over the summer: getting comfortable in the chaos and remembering that connection is key.

We talk about letting go of what things “should” look like, why a bit of chaos doesn’t mean things aren’t working, and the difference simply knowing and connecting with a young person can make.

In our first solo episode of Eden Equips, Rebecca answers some of your questions about supporting neurodivergent children and young people.

We cover creating neuroaffirming spaces, recognising when inclusion isn’t happening in practice, supporting regulation and capacity, studying for exams, and navigating the emotions that can come with parenting a neurodivergent child.

A practical and open Q&A for parents, carers, educators and youth workers.

What’s it really like being a teacher right now?

Rebecca chats with her sister Sarah, a teacher, about the pressures of teaching, supporting neurodivergent children, working with parents, and why asking for help matters. 

How do you keep looking after everyone else without losing yourself?

Rebecca chats with therapist Tori Stirling about self-compassion, therapy, burnout, and supporting the emotional wellbeing of parents and carers of neurodivergent children. A gentle, honest conversation with practical encouragement. 

What needs to change for autistic people and families in Northern Ireland?

Rebecca is joined by Ema Cubitt, Northern Ireland's Independent Autism Reviewer, to chat about autism, education, and creating real change through listening and understanding.

In this episode, Rebecca chats with Eden about growing up with a sibling with additional needs, her journey through specialist teaching, teacher burnout, and why she's passionate about creating better opportunities for neurodivergent young people and adults.

A really honest conversation about inclusion, connection, and the incredible things we can learn from neurodivergent people. 💙

In this episode of Eden Equips, Rebecca talks with Elaine McCrisken about emotionally based school avoidance (EBSA) and why some children struggle to attend school due to anxiety, overwhelm, and emotional distress.

They discuss practical ways parents and schools can better support children through connection, understanding, and emotional safety.

A helpful and encouraging conversation for parents, teachers, and anyone supporting young people struggling with school attendance.

Join Rebecca in conversation with Alma as they talk about hope, resilience, and the need for better support for neurodiverse young people beyond age 19. They discuss the importance of data, campaigning for change, and why lived experience matters when shaping support. The conversation highlights finding your people, learning from other parents, and holding onto hope, with a reminder not to give up and that real change comes from people who care and keep showing up.

This episode contains discussion of suicide and mental health.

Join Rebecca in conversation with Julia as they reflect on mental health, hope, and the importance of listening to neurodiverse people and their lived experiences. They discuss understanding good and bad mental health, seeking support and services, advocating for yourself and others, and holding onto hope through small moments of change.

Join Rebecca in conversation with Abbie as they explore neurodiversity, identity, and self expression. Abbie shares what it means to show up authentically, from dressing flamboyantly to embracing language that reflects who she is, and why shifts in language around neurodiversity matter.

In part two of Rebecca’s conversation with Laura Crowley, they continue exploring the realities of navigating neurodiversity. Laura shares more of her personal journey, highlighting the challenges, emotional impact, and the importance of trusting your instincts along the way.

Together, they reflect on advocating for your child, understanding individual needs, and approaching things with greater awareness and compassion.

www.lauracrowleyconnect.com

In this episode, Rebecca is joined by Laura Crowley for an honest conversation about identity, growth, and navigating change. Laura reflects on how life’s transitions can shift your sense of self and the challenge of balancing different roles and expectations.

Together, they explore the importance of self-awareness, trusting your inner voice, and allowing yourself to evolve. This episode offers a reassuring reminder that it’s okay to change and redefine what feels right for you.

www.lauracrowleyconnect.com

In this episode, Rebecca sits down with Emma Ahern for an honest and deeply reflective conversation about the realities of parenting. Emma shares her personal experiences of navigating motherhood, including the emotional weight, challenges, and unexpected moments that shape the journey.

Together, they explore the importance of building a strong support network, especially in the early stages of parenting, and how even small moments of care for yourself can make a meaningful difference. Emma opens up about the vulnerability that can come with motherhood, the fear and uncertainty many parents carry, and the powerful reminder to take things one day at a time. 

The conversation also touches on trusting your instincts, letting go of the idea of perfection, and creating space to stay present rather than becoming overwhelmed by the “what ifs” of the future. With a mix of practical insight and heartfelt honesty, this episode offers reassurance, perspective, and encouragement for anyone navigating their own parenting journey.

Join Rebecca in conversation with Emma Ahern as they explore the realities of parenting, tuning into your child, and embracing your authentic self. They reflect on the weight many parents carry, the reminder that there is no perfect parent, and the importance of trusting that you know your child best. The conversation also highlights practical tools like observing patterns, noticing when your child feels most regulated, and the power of play, with encouragement to reflect, stay curious, and avoid assumptions.

https://www.zeebratherapy.co.uk/

Join Rebecca in conversation with Danielle as they talk about what it means to be neurodivergent and to find belonging through community. Danielle shares her experience of joining the Now Group, what it has meant to feel supported and included, and why every neurodivergent person deserves understanding and opportunity. They also explore practical tools like the JAM Card, along with the importance of mindset, daily routines, and self care when it comes to looking after yourself and your wellbeing.

This episode is for anyone navigating neurodiversity, seeking connection, or wanting to better support neurodivergent people in everyday life.

Join Dr Kirsty Porter and Rebecca as they explore practical ways to support children with food and sensory challenges. From helping kids feel comfortable trying new foods and understanding fight or flight responses, to building safe foods, gentle routines, and realistic portion sizes, this episode focuses on progress over perfection and connection over correction. Expect simple tools like sensory eating action plans and sensory ladders to support families one step at a time.

https://nutrition4kidsni.com/

Join Tori and Rebecca as they explore autism through the highs, lows, and everyday moments. This space offers encouragement and practical support, rooted in Tori’s work with MAP & Compass Therapy.

https://www.mapandcompasstherapy.com/

Join Grace and Rebecca as they share honest, real-life conversations about autism. Through the highs, lows, and everyday moments, this space offers encouragement and practical support, grounded in paediatric occupational therapy, sensory play, and training.

https://www.thesensorysubmarine.com/

Amy brings her own voice and lived experience to the conversation, offering a neurodiverse perspective that is honest, thoughtful, and grounded in real life. This space centers curiosity over judgment, connection over perfection, and tools that actually work in everyday moments. It’s about learning how to navigate emotions, expectations, and environments with greater confidence and self-understanding.

Circle of Control: a practical, empowering framework that helps make sense of what you can influence, what you can prepare for, and how to care for yourself along the way.

Join Eileen and Rebecca as they continue the equipping journey—sharing honest, real-life conversations about autism. From the highs and lows to the everyday moments in between, this space is about encouragement, understanding, and practical support for families and caregivers walking a similar path.

✨ Learn more and find helpful resources:

• https://wearewaymaker.com
• https://lovelittlebear.com

Join Leigh and Rebecca as they continue the equipping journey, sharing real conversations about autism, from the highs and lows to the everyday moments in between.

Jude and Rebecca continue the equipping journey, chatting all things autism - the wins, the challenges, and the real-life moments in between. 

Real talk and simple encouragement from Rebecca and Gemma to help you feel steady and supported along the way.

Join Rebecca and Beth for genuine conversations, plenty of laughter, and practical wisdom designed to help you feel confident and equipped for life’s journey.

Eden Equips is here! Rebecca and Phoebe have honest convos, plenty of laughs, and share practically to help you feel equipped for the journey.