On this episode of Late to the Party, I speak with acclaimed author Kay Kerr to explore the intricate connections between writing, memory, and identity. Kay shares her journey as an autistic writer, from her celebrated young adult novels Please Don’t Hug Me and Social Queue to her latest works, including Might Cry Later and contributions to Someone Like Me (for Australia, for International)

We dive deep into topics like:

• How sensory details shape memory and storytelling
• The impact of aphantasia and alexithymia on creativity and self perception
• The intricacies of being part of social groups
• Movement, stimming,  and the search for authenticity
• The act of making generational change

This conversation is a thoughtful look at neurodivergence, acceptance, and the ways we create meaning in our lives.

Find Kay on Instagram and on her website.

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In this follow-up conversation with Joanne Seymon, co-founder of Kaiko Fidgets, we go far beyond product design and neurodiversity. This episode dives deep into the human experience—touching on love, pain, parenting, grief, death, trauma, and the messy beauty of work that matters.

Jo brings her signature warmth and wisdom as we explore what it means to hold space for others while navigating our own healing. From the raw edges of loss to the joy of shared laughter, this chat is a testament to resilience, connection, and the power of showing up—especially when it’s hard.

Whether you're a parent, a practitioner, or simply someone trying to make sense of it all, this episode offers comfort, insight, and a few good chuckles along the way.

Call to Action: Please consider helping me cover the significant costs making the podcast via Patreon. 

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 We very much want you to share your stories and opinions. Join our public and private pages to start the discussion.
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In this episode, we sit down with Joanne Seymon, co-founder of Kaiko Fidgets—a trailblazing Australian business born from lived experience and a deep understanding of neurodiversity. Joanne, an occupational therapist and mother to Kai, shares the inspiring journey of how a simple idea blossomed into a thriving enterprise that’s changing lives. From designing elegant sensory tools to empowering young neurodivergent individuals through meaningful employment, Kaiko Fidgets is more than a business—it’s a movement. Tune in for a heartfelt conversation about creativity, compassion, and the power of purposeful design.

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 We very much want you to share your stories and opinions. Join our public and private pages to start the discussion.
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Call to Action: Help support the podcast via Patreon. 

Dan sits down with his daughter Eloise for a wide-ranging, heartfelt, and occasionally chaotic conversation that spans pop culture, music, neurodivergence, and the state of the world.

Dan calls Different Journeys CEO Mel Spencer with some really special news.

Dan and Eloise take a deep dive into the social media phenomenon The Basement Yard, unpacking why it’s so addictive and what it says about humor. Dan even writes his own slam poetry! Eloise shares updates on her friend’s band — which Dan is recording — and we reflect on the joy of making original music, even when the band talks a lot between takes.

Then we spiral into our shared hyper fixation: the TV show House. From Hugh Laurie’s brilliance to the show’s messy ethics, we explore why it still grips us years later.

Dan opens up about his lifelong love of Brian Wilson, whose recent passing has left a deep mark. He shares a personal musical tribute piece at the end of the episode — a moment of reflection, gratitude, and musical reverence.

We also get fired up about the complacency we see in today’s world. Where’s the rage? Where’s the accountability? We talk about the need for education, awareness, and action, especially around social justice and neurodivergence.

And finally, we share some listener-submitted Autistic Moments — those beautifully honest, funny, and insightful snapshots of neurodivergent life that remind us why this podcast exists.

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 We very much want you to share your stories and opinions. Join our public and private pages to start the discussion.
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🔔 Trigger Warning
This episode discusses topics related to Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD), which may be distressing for some listeners. Please take care while listening.

In this important episode, Dan sits down with Christine Brooks, Director at NOFASD Australia, to shed light on the often misunderstood and under-recognized condition of Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD).

Christine shares her insights into:

• Why FASD remains largely unknown in both the general community and among therapists.
• The challenges families and individuals face in getting a diagnosis and appropriate support.
• The new Australian Guidelines for Assessment and Diagnosis of FASD, released on May 13, 2025, and how they aim to:
  • Improve diagnostic services across the lifespan.
  • Support practitioners in identifying and diagnosing FASD more effectively.
• Visit NOFASD Australia for information, resources, and support services.
• If you or someone you know is affected by FASD, seek support in your local area or contact NOFASD’s helpline.

Call to Action: Help support the podcast via Patreon. 

Please come join us on our socials where we are very much present.
 We very much want you to share your stories and opinions. Join our public and private pages to start the discussion.
Public Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/latetothepartypodcast
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Email us at [email protected]
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Website at https://latetotheparty.buzzsprout.com

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Call to Action: Help support the podcast via Patreon.

In this episode, I sit down with Lucy, a brilliant autistic young adult with a deep love of history, for a conversation that flows effortlessly—because when neurodivergent minds connect, there’s no shortage of things to talk about. We dive into storytelling and its impact on learning, how we perceive communication, and the power of diversifying your skills. Along the way, we explore evolution and the undeniable presence of autistic people throughout history. This episode is packed with thoughtful insights, personal perspectives, and plenty of moments that remind us why these conversations matter.

Tune in and join the chat—you won’t want to miss it!

Please come join us on our socials where we are very much present.
 We very much want you to share your stories and opinions. Join our public and private pages to start the discussion.
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Call to Action: Help support the podcast via Patreon. And if you are in Melbourne get your tickets for the live podcast event. 

Join hosts Dan Kerr and Tismo Terrasson, a social justice advocate and Disability Consultant as they dive into the world of neurodiversity, sharing personal stories, expert insights, and candid conversations. In this episode, Dan and Tismo discuss their late diagnoses of autism and ADHD, the challenges of navigating a neurotypical world, and the importance of creating inclusive spaces. From humorous anecdotes about family life to deep dives into the science of neurodivergence, this podcast offers a unique and engaging perspective on what it means to be neurodivergent. 

Whether you're neurodivergent yourself or just curious to learn more, Neurodivergent Narratives is a must-listen for anyone interested in understanding and celebrating neurodiversity.

Please come join us on our socials where we are very much present.
 We very much want you to share your stories and opinions. Join our public and private pages to start the discussion.
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Join Dan and guest Andy Drewitt in this eye-opening podcast as they delve into the complexities of emotional masking, aggression, and anxiety. Drawing inspiration from Andy Drewitt's thought-provoking article 'How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love Making Penis Ladders' as well as his upcoming exhibition 'THIS IS YOUR FAULT', we explore the different types of masking behaviors that lead to emotional blowouts.

They discuss the challenges of acting tough and masking pain or anxiety with a facade of calmness. They also delve into how cultural and societal norms influence aggressive behavior and the unique struggles faced by neurodivergent individuals in expressing their emotions.

From the unsettling experience of not understanding or communicating feelings to the alarming rates of suicide among those on the autism spectrum, this podcast will shed light on these critical issues. We'll also offer insights on choosing a kinder path to self-understanding and dismantling the scaffold of fear and shame.

Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of how aggression often stems from self-directed emotions and learn strategies for managing anxiety and emotional turmoil in healthier ways.

Find Andy Drewitt at Andy Drewitt (@andydrewitt) • Instagram photos and videos

'THIS IS YOUR FAULT' will be shown at the No Vacancy Gallery, Melbourne, March 11 to April 5. Opening night March 13, with a performance by burlesque sensation Evana De Lune @evanadelune

Please come join us on our socials where we are very much present.
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Dan chats with musician David Hosking about success, creative flow, and the challenges neurodivergent individuals face in their creative pursuits. David shares his journey and insights on releasing eight albums despite these hurdles.

Key Topics Discussed:

• David's evolving definition of success and the role of personal fulfillment.
• Techniques for maintaining creative flow and productivity.
• Challenges like autistic inertia, rejection sensitive dysphoria, and demand avoidance.
• Practical tips for neurodivergent individuals to manage creative projects.

Call to Action: Help support the podcast via Patreon and follow David Hosking's music journey on his website. And if you are in Melbourne get your tickets for the live podcast event. 

Guest Information: David Hosking is an Australian singer-songwriter known for his soulful melodies and evocative storytelling. With influences like Nick Drake and Tom Waits, Hosking has released eight albums, captivating a dedicated following in Melbourne and Northern Ireland. His music explores themes of love, observation, and humor, making him a unique voice in the indie music scene. 

Please come join us on our socials where we are very much present.
 We very much want you to share your stories and opinions. Join our public and private pages to start the discussion.
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Email us at [email protected]
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Podcast Episode: Embracing Neurodiversity with Kathy Isaacs

Hosts: Dan Kerr and Kathy Isaacs

Summary: In this episode, Dan Kerr and Kathy Isaacs dive into a rich conversation about neurodiversity, focusing on autism and ADHD. They discuss their personal experiences, challenges, and the importance of self-identification and diagnosis. Kathy shares insights from her work with the Sylvia Roger Academy governance program and her involvement in various autism advocacy organisations.

Key Points:

• Diversity and Inclusion: Dan, as a diversity and inclusion ambassador, emphasises the value of neurodivergent minds in the workplace.
• Autism and ADHD: Kathy explains the intersection of autism and ADHD, noting the growing minority of autistic individuals without ADHD.
• Self-Identification: The legitimacy of self-identifying as autistic is highlighted, with Kathy supporting this approach.
• Challenges and Coping: They discuss the difficulties of masking and the importance of finding ways to unmask and be authentic.
• Empathy and Understanding: The concept of double empathy is explored, emphasising the mutual effort required for understanding between autistic and allistic people.
• Work and Advocacy: Kathy's involvement in autism advocacy through various boards and organisations is discussed, focusing on amplifying autistic voices.
• Personal Reflections: Kathy shares her experiences in palliative care and how her autistic traits helped her excel in the role.
• Special Interests: Kathy talks about her passion for sewing, Salesforce, and the joy of engaging in special interests.
• Music and Creativity: The hosts discuss their love for music that blends genres and the use of writing prompts for creative inspiration.
• Future Plans: Dan shares his plans for a live podcast event focused on the journey of autism discovery and connecting with local services.

Conclusion: The episode concludes with a heartfelt discussion on the importance of community and support in the autism journey. Dan and Kathy's conversation is a testament to the power of embracing neurodiversity and finding joy in being authentic.

Please come join us on our socials where we are very much present.
 We very much want you to share your stories and opinions. Join our public and private pages to start the discussion.
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On this episode, Dan speaks with author and perfumer Rini Puccetti about her groundbreaking planner, designed to merge logical layout with emotional well-being. This planner is a game-changer for anyone seeking to bring clarity and balance into their daily routine. 

Key Topics:

• Rini's inspiration behind creating the planner.
• The unique integration of a logical layout with an emotional well-being focus.
• Introduction to the exclusive Emotional Vocabulary Chart, which helps users track their moods, identify triggers, and articulate feelings with precision.
• Practical tips from Rini on how to use the planner effectively.

Dan also welcomes a surprise guest you may know quite well.

Guest Information:
Rini Puccetti: Author and perfumer known for her innovative work.

• Social Media: Facebook
• Book Availability: Find the book at Amazon.com.au: Miss Rini: books, biography, latest update

Please come join us on our socials where we are very much present.
 We very much want you to share your stories and opinions. Join our public and private pages to start the discussion.
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Email us at [email protected]
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Website at https://latetotheparty.buzzsprout.com

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