A child’s final wish became a blueprint for change. Host Jade Harley sits down with KidsXpress founder and CEO Margo Ward to chart the journey from “play lady” in a hospital ward to leading a nationally recognised, trauma‑informed model that embeds expressive therapy in schools and communities across Australia. Margo shares how music, art, dance, and drama help children regulate, reconnect, and recover when words aren’t enough, and why consistent, long‑term presence beats quick fixes every time.
Across moving stories and sharp insights, we dig into the data behind Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs), the neuroscience that validates creative modalities, and the uncomfortable truth that half of all mental health issues start before 14. Margo explains how KidsXpress evolved from small therapy groups to whole‑school partnerships, why teachers need mental health professionals by their side, and what it takes to win community trust after a crisis. The Snowy Valleys case study shows the ripple effect in action: safer classrooms, supported families, and children who find their voice.
We also talk practical steps for parents and carers: how to spot signs of distress, what to say when behaviour shifts, and why the process of play matters more than the product. On policy and systems, Margo makes a bold case for a Minister for Children, trauma‑informed teacher education, and sustained funding for prevention and early intervention. At the heart of it all is a simple challenge: choose one child and keep showing up. That’s how culture changes - one trusted adult, one brave school, one community at a time.
This episode is a testament to what vision, compassion, and relentless commitment can achieve for young people. Tune in to learn how Margo’s dedication continues to drive systemic change in mental-health care for children, and how KidsXpress is helping to create the future all children deserve.
If this conversation moved you, follow and share the show, leave a review, and pass it to someone who cares about kids’ mental health. Want to help? Connect with KidsXpress, start a conversation at your school, and tell us what you’ll do first.
This episode was recorded at the Nova Entertainment studios.
KidsXpress Contact Details
Website - kidsxpress.org.au
Email - info@kidsxpress.org.au
Facebook - www.facebook.com/KidsXpressAustralia
Instagram - @kidsxpressmentalhealth
No Ordinary People is produced by Jade Harley, Director of Impact at UnLtd.
This podcast shares the real stories of charity founders driving change for children and communities across Australia, especially those impacted by trauma, poverty, racism, and family and domestic violence.
Every story is a reminder: hope is built one small act at a time.
Brand identity and cover design created by my beautiful friends at Cocogun.
Got a story to share or want to get involved? Reach out to jade@unltd.org.au
Follow, rate, and share to help amplify these voices.
Connect: Instagram @noordinarypeople_podcast and LinkedIn www.linkedin.com/in/jadeharley
