Welcome to The ADHD MUMS Podcast, a lifeline for Australian mums navigating ADHD and motherhood. Perfect for struggling, burnt out mums who want to drop perfect...
MINI SERIES (Episode 9): How Workplaces Can Support Employees Affected by Family and Domestic Violence with Laurie Arrowsmith
Family and domestic violence doesn't stop at home - it has a significant impact on workplaces too. That’s why I’m so grateful to have Laurie Arrowsmith from White Ribbon Australia back on the podcast. Laurie shares practical insights on how workplaces can foster safety, support, and equality for all employees.As a Senior Workplace Programme Specialist, Laurie has spent over a decade working with both survivors and perpetrators, creating programmes that drive meaningful change.Key Takeaways:The Workplace as a Safe Space: For many, work offers respite from domestic challenges. Learn how supportive policies can protect and empower employees.Economic and Cultural Impact: Domestic violence costs businesses billions annually. Discover strategies to minimise absenteeism and support wellbeing.Empowering Action: Embedding gender equality and providing training ensures workplaces are part of the solution.Supportive Policies: Understand the importance of family violence leave and how discreet workplace resources can make a difference.Workplaces have a unique opportunity to champion safety, equality, and empowerment. Through proactive policies and leadership, they can make a lasting difference.TRIGGER WARNING: This podcast series discusses topics that may be distressing to some listeners, including child abuse, physical and sexual abuse, and emotional trauma. If you or someone you know is affected by these issues, please prioritise your well-being and consider listening to a different episode or proceed with caution. If you feel overwhelmed at any point, it's okay to take a break or seek support.Let’s be real - we can’t change or cover everything in one podcast series. But what we can do is start the conversation. If this episode helps even one person recognise the signs of abuse or points them toward safety, it’s worth it. It’s not about perfection, it’s about offering hope and shedding light on what’s often kept in the dark.Flinders University Study: Download PDFSupport and Help LinesIf you or someone you know is in an abusive situation, reaching out to professionals can be life-changing. I don't want to create resources on a website with no 'quick exit' function. A quick exit function on domestic violence (DV) websites is designed to protect individuals who may be in immediate danger while seeking help or information online. Many victims of DV are closely monitored by their abusers, including their online activities. The quick exit button allows users to leave the website instantly and redirects them to a neutral site, like a search engine, with one click.- 1800RESPECT: A national sexual assault, domestic, and family violence counselling service. Confidential and available 24/7. Call: 1800 737 732. Visit the Website- Relationships Australia: Offers counselling, mediation, and support services. Call: 1300 364 277- Men’s Referral Service: Support for men using family violence, offering confidential counselling and resources. Call: 1300 766 491- Family Relationship Advice Line: Offers information and support for family separation, parenting arrangements, and more. Call: 1800 050 321- Women’s Health Centres:...
--------
20:18
MINI SERIES (Episode 8): Why don't women just leave?
Domestic Violence is one of those topics that’s so much more complicated than it seems from the outside. This week, I sat down with Elyse Nauta for a second time, and as always, she brought incredible insight. Elyse has 15 years of experience in child protection, working everywhere from metro areas to remote regions like the Kimberleys. We explored the big question: why don’t women just leave? Spoiler: it’s not as simple as it sounds.Key topics covered:The Complexity of StayingThe Subtle Grip of Coercive ControlThe Cycle That Keeps Victims HopingUnderstanding Why Perpetrators ActBarriers That Make Leaving So HardHow We Can HelpElyse paints a vivid picture of what life can look like for women caught in these situations. Her insights remind us that understanding the ‘why’ behind someone staying in an abusive relationship is key to offering real support.TRIGGER WARNING: This podcast series discusses topics that may be distressing to some listeners, including child abuse, physical and sexual abuse, and emotional trauma. If you or someone you know is affected by these issues, please prioritise your well-being and consider listening to a different episode or proceed with caution. If you feel overwhelmed at any point, it's okay to take a break or seek support.Let’s be real - we can’t change or cover everything in one podcast series. But what we can do is start the conversation. If this episode helps even one person recognise the signs of abuse or points them toward safety, it’s worth it. It’s not about perfection, it’s about offering hope and shedding light on what’s often kept in the dark.Statistics ReferencedWho are the Perpetrators? Why am I using the term men? The Australian data shows that 75% of domestic violence perpetrators are men: Perpetrator StatisticsSupport and Help LinesIf you or someone you know is in an abusive situation, reaching out to professionals can be life-changing. I don't want to create resources on a website with no 'quick exit' function. A quick exit function on domestic violence (DV) websites is designed to protect individuals who may be in immediate danger while seeking help or information online. Many victims of DV are closely monitored by their abusers, including their online activities. The quick exit button allows users to leave the website instantly and redirects them to a neutral site, like a search engine, with one click.- 1800RESPECT: A national sexual assault, domestic, and family violence counselling service. Confidential and available 24/7. Call: 1800 737 732. Visit the Website- Relationships Australia: Offers counselling, mediation, and support services. Call: 1300 364 277- Men’s Referral Service: Support for men using family violence, offering confidential counselling and resources. Call: 1300 766 491- Family Relationship Advice Line: Offers information and support for family separation, parenting arrangements, and more. Call: 1800 050 321- Women’s Health Centres: Specialised support for women affected by domestic violence, including counselling and medical services. Contact your local...
--------
23:41
44. Supporting Neurodivergent Kids with Friendships and Boundaries with Bec Sparrow
Friendships can be tricky, especially when navigating neurodivergence. As parents, we often wonder how to help our kids make meaningful connections, set healthy boundaries, and deal with social challenges.That’s why I brought in the one and only Bec Sparrow A.K.A. Australia’s Friendship Whisperer. With two decades of experience as a writer, speaker, and advocate for connection, Bec has helped countless parents, teens, and schools understand what it takes to create meaningful, lasting friendships. Her passion for belonging shines through in this episode, where she shares insights drawn from both her professional expertise and her lived experiences.We explore:Friendship as a skill: Why friendships aren’t instinctive for everyone and how to teach kids (and yourself) to build meaningful connections step by step.Setting boundaries with confidence: Practical tips for helping kids say no and communicate their needs without guilt.Spotting red flags in friendships: Bec uses Dr Brené Brown’s BRAVING framework to break down the key elements of trust and healthy relationships.Handling conflict with kindness: How to navigate disagreements without creating unnecessary drama.Expanding social circles: Why building friendships outside of school is essential for resilience and avoiding negative peer pressure.More resources can be found here: https://adhdmums.com.au/resources/ Related Episode:S02E35: ADHD and Autistic Friendships with Prof Tony Attwood and Dr Michelle GarnettResources Mentioned:Follow Bec on Instagram: @rebeccasparrow72Find more resources, articles, and info on Bec’s online programs: https://rebeccasparrow.com/ Get Bec Sparrow’s latest book: Out of the BoxDr Brené Brown’s Podcast about the BRAVING acronym: The Anatomy of TrustListen to Bec on the Parental as Anything TEENS podcastBOOK IN WITH JANE'S RECOMMENDED THERAPISTSIf you're looking to connect with a parenting specialist or psychologist for expert advice on parenting, please check out www.adhdmums.com.au/services. Your journey to more confident and supported parenting starts here!CONNECT WITH ME...If you’ve got a question or want to connect with other ADHD mums, we’ve got a whole community on our Facebook group. Click here to join and post your question. Don’t worry if it’s been asked before! I love to answer everyone in a group format.LEAVE ME A REVIEWYour review means the world to me! Your thoughts really help others discover my content that I genuinely...
--------
47:40
MINI SERIES (Episode 7): Ensuring Safety When Leaving a DV Relationship with Laurie Arrowsmith
Today, we're diving into an important yet often difficult topic - what women need to consider for safety and support when thinking about leaving an abusive relationship. Laurie from White Ribbon Australia is a leading voice in domestic violence prevention and intervention. At White Ribbon Australia, she manages the Workplace Accreditation Program, fostering safer spaces for women and families. Laurie has dedicated her career to reducing violence, supporting survivors, and holding perpetrators accountable. Laurie’s here to walk us through those essential first steps, sharing insights that could make a world of difference.Timestamps (approx):1 min – Key steps to consider before leaving an abusive relationship, including understanding the risks and preparing for safety.4 mins – Creating an escape plan with essentials like a “go bag” and securing digital privacy.7 mins – The role of support networks in combating isolation and offering safety when planning to leave.10 mins – Legal protections: applying for intervention orders and working with domestic violence officers for added safety.12 mins – Importance of seeking legal advice and considering mediation as an alternative to family court.17 mins – Exploring options to remain in the home safely by legally removing the partner through sole occupancy orders.20 mins – Recognising manipulation tactics like “love bombing” and the importance of reaching out for guidance.TRIGGER WARNING: This podcast series discusses topics that may be distressing to some listeners, including child abuse, physical and sexual abuse, and emotional trauma. If you or someone you know is affected by these issues, please prioritise your well-being and consider listening to a different episode or proceed with caution. If you feel overwhelmed at any point, it's okay to take a break or seek support.Let’s be real - we can’t change or cover everything in one podcast series. But what we can do is start the conversation. If this episode helps even one person recognise the signs of abuse or points them toward safety, it’s worth it. It’s not about perfection, it’s about offering hope and shedding light on what’s often kept in the dark.Important LinksDaisy App – A free app developed by 1800RESPECT that provides local support service information while protecting user privacy.Escaping Violence Payment – Financial assistance up to $5,000 for women experiencing family violence, available through organisations like Uniting and Wesley Mission.Government Financial Assistance – Support payments like Parenting Payments, Single Income Family Supplement, and Family Tax Benefits A and B for single parents and families.Support and Help LinesIf you or someone you know is in an abusive situation, reaching out to professionals can be...
--------
22:04
43. ADHD and Teens: A Conversation with Maggie Dent
Commonly known as the ‘queen of common sense,’ Maggie Dent is one of Australia’s most beloved parenting authors, educators, and podcasters. And I finally had the chance to catch up with Maggie!More resources can be found here: https://adhdmums.com.au/resourcesMaggie’s down-to-earth stories and no-nonsense advice will leave you feeling ready to take on the rollercoaster ride of parenting teens. From dealing with slammed doors and one-word answers to navigating school dramas and social pressures, Maggie breaks it all down with heart, humour, and a whole lot of understanding. This is your go-to episode for parenting teens with love, patience, and a sprinkle of laughter when it’s needed most.Note: This episode includes a brief mention of suicide.Key Topics Covered:What’s happening during adolescence and how it shapes emotions, decisions, and behaviour.How to connect with your teen through unconditional love, patience, and understanding - even in challenging moments.Tailored tips for kids with ADHD and other neurodivergent traits to help them build confidence and resilience.Strategies for supporting teens through tough times with compassion instead of conflict.How to set healthy boundaries for screen time, improve sleep, and guide teens in navigating today’s digital challenges.Plus a whole lot more!Resources mentioned:Follow Maggie on Instagram: @maggiedentauthorFind more resources, articles, and info on Maggie’s workshops and speaking events: https://www.maggiedent.com/ Get Maggie’s Latest Book, Help Me Help My Teen: https://www.maggiedent.com/shop/help-me-help-my-teen/ Follow Maggie on her popular podcast Parental As Anything and her new series The Good Enough Dad. BOOK IN WITH JANE'S RECOMMENDED THERAPISTSIf you're looking to connect with a parenting specialist or psychologist for expert advice on parenting, please check out www.adhdmums.com.au/services. Your journey to more confident and supported parenting starts here!CONNECT WITH ME...If you’ve got a question or want to connect with other ADHD mums, we’ve got a whole community on our Facebook group. Click here to join and post your question. Don’t worry if it’s been asked before! I love to answer everyone in a group format.LEAVE ME A REVIEWYour review means the world to me! Your thoughts really help others discover my content that I genuinely (and passionately) hope could make a difference in their lives. Your support creates a ripple effect of spreading my show around and hopefully reaching the right people (especially Mums who may be at their wit’s end). WANT TO COLLABORATE?If you’re enquiring about a collaboration or speaking engagement – please email
Welcome to The ADHD MUMS Podcast, a lifeline for Australian mums navigating ADHD and motherhood. Perfect for struggling, burnt out mums who want to drop perfectionism.