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The Sunflower Conversations

Hidden Disabilities Sunflower

Welcome to the Sunflower Conversations, the podcast where we explore the experiences of disabled people with non-visible disabilities through the lens of the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower.

This is a space to hear authentic stories from disabled people navigating life with non-visible disabilities such as chronic illness, mental health conditions, neurodivergence, and more. While most episodes focus on lived experience, we also feature occasional insights from experts in healthcare, accessibility, and inclusion.

Whether you or someone you care about wears the Sunflower, our conversations aim to raise awareness, build understanding, and help create a more inclusive and compassionate world.

Empowering voices. Raising awareness. Challenging assumptions - one conversation at a time.

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21 episodes
Avg 35 min
English

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September 13 · 1 hr 12 min
Sickle Cell with Ayuk Besong Anne-Chantal and Dr Lewis Thomas
This episode discusses living with sickle cell disease and its impacts. We are joined by SOuL Just Be co-editor Ayuk Besong Anne-Chantal and Dr Lewis Thomas to explore the complexities of living with sickle cell disease. Both guests bring their lived experience and professional expertise to shed light on the physical, emotional, and social challenges individuals with this condition face. What sickle cell is How sickle cell affects work, education, emotions and relationships What a sickle cell crisis is Recognising triggers Why sickle cell is global, and the link to malaria Stigma and misinformation Racial bias The helpful role of the Sunflower in preventing being misjudged If you are concerned about any of the subjects discussed in the podcast, please follow up with your healthcare practitioner for support. For support: Sickleverse Website: sickleverse.com Instagram: @sicklecellcoach, TikTok: @drlewisthomas, Facebook: Dr Lewis Thomas, YouTube: @sicklecellhelp, LinkedIn: Dr Lewis Thomas SOuL Just Be SOuL Just Be E-mag LinkedIn @A&A Consulting and Engineering services YouTube sickle cell podcast @A&ConsultingServices SCD Champs Game App Charities The Sickle Cell Society - UK Sickle Cell Society Ireland Sickle Cell Disease Association of America Sickle Cell Disease Association of Canada Hosted by Chantal Boyle, Hidden Disabilities Sunflower. If you enjoyed this podcast, please leave a rating and review. Find out more about the Sunflower by visiting the website hdsunflower.com Music by © Sandee Facy / Michael Saleta www.sandeefacy.com.au
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S3 · E6
September 7 · 36 min
Cancer and Lymphoedema With Nicole - Australia & New Zealand
In this episode of Sunflower Conversations, James Dunn speaks with Nicole Quinlan about her journey living with a non-visible disability following a life-changing cancer diagnosis. Nicole shares her experience of being dismissed by healthcare professionals, advocating for answers, navigating treatment and living with lymphedema, while highlighting the importance of kindness and understanding. • noticing a rapid physical change after childbirth and trusting your instincts • being repeatedly dismissed in primary care and persisting until answers arrive • managing lymphedema day to day with pain, swelling triggers, and practical tools • learning how kindness from clinicians and strangers can change everything • discovering the Hidden Disability Sunflower and reducing judgement in public spaces Visit our website, Facebook, or Instagram for more resources.
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August 9 · 35 min
FGM/C with Sema Gornall, Vavengers
Content warning: This podcast episode discusses female genital mutilation and cutting (FGM/C), including its physical, emotional, and psychological impacts. Some listeners may find this content distressing. Listener discretion is advised. If you have been affected by the issues discussed, please consider seeking support from a healthcare professional. We talk with Sema Gornell, the charity Vavenger's CEO, about one of the biggest misconceptions surrounding FGM/C: that it is a medical necessity. In reality, there are no health benefits to the practice; rather, it can lead to severe physical and psychological harm. Sema points out that the female genitalia is one of the most sensitive areas of the body, containing over 10,000 nerve endings. The removal or alteration of this area can result in lifelong complications, including chronic pain, reproductive issues, and mental health struggles. We also challenge the myths that stop progress. FGM is not “just culture”, and it is not a private issue that communities are comfortable with. Sema explains how demand and misogynistic norms shape expectations of women’s bodies, and why men and boys must be champions if we want prevention to work. For support: Vavengers - UK Action to End FGM/C - Global Hosted by Chantal Boyle, Hidden Disabilities Sunflower. If you enjoyed this podcast, please leave a rating and review. Find out more about the Sunflower by visiting the website hdsunflower.com Music by © Sandee Facy / Michael Saleta www.sandeefacy.com.au
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August 9 · 15 min
FGM/C Survivors with Huda Mohammed, Vavengers
Content warning: This podcast episode discusses female genital mutilation and cutting (FGM/C), including its physical, emotional, and psychological impacts. Some listeners may find this content distressing. Listener discretion is advised. If you have been affected by the issues discussed, please consider seeking support from a healthcare professional. In this episode, Huda Mohammed, who is an FGM Specialist and Pelvic Health Midwife from the charity Vavengers, discusses the Impact of FGM on Women's Health. Women who have undergone FGM often face a myriad of health complications that can affect them throughout their lives. We discuss: Physical Pain: Chronic pain and discomfort during intercourse, menstrual cycles, and childbirth. Psychological Trauma: Many women report feelings of trauma, anxiety, and depression related to their experiences with FGM. Infections and Complications: Increased risk of urinary tract infections, complications during childbirth, and infertility issues. For support: Vavengers - UK Action to End FGM/C - Global Hosted by Chantal Boyle, Hidden Disabilities Sunflower. If you enjoyed this podcast, please leave a rating and review. Find out more about the Sunflower by visiting the website hdsunflower.com Music by © Sandee Facy / Michael Saleta www.sandeefacy.com.au
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S3 · E5
August 6 · 42 min
Multiple Sclerosis with Yvette - Australia & New Zealand
In this episode of Sunflower Conversations, James Dunn speaks with Yvette O'Dowd, who first showed symptoms of multiple sclerosis (MS) at 32 years old and has now been living with the condition for over 30 years. An advocate and author of the children's book Granny Has Wobbly Legs, Yvette shares her experience of living with MS, exploring fatigue, brain fog, stigma, and the practical adjustments, including the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower, that help make everyday life more accessible. • Early MS signs, diagnosis and living with uncertainty • Hidden symptoms including fatigue, brain fog, numbness and heat sensitivity • Managing energy through pacing and spoon theory • The emotional impact of invisible disability and being misunderstood • Treatment decisions, lifestyle changes and daily coping strategies • Explaining MS to children through Granny Has Wobbly Legs • Simple accessibility changes that make a meaningful difference • How the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower supports understanding and confidence Visit our website, Facebook, or Instagram for more resources.
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S3 · E4
June 30 · 50 min
Stutter With Vikesh - Australia & New Zealand
In this episode of Sunflower Conversations, James Dunn speaks with Vikesh Anand, TEDx speaker and founder of STUTTA (Australian Stuttering Association), about living with a stutter and advocating for greater awareness and acceptance. • What stuttering is, including different types of speech blocks and covert vs overt stuttering • The mental load of masking speech, including anxiety, shame and constant self-monitoring • Finding community at 28 through a stuttering support group, shifting towards acceptance • Moving into advocacy and creating spaces like “Speak Freely” through STUTTA • The importance of patience and not finishing sentences for people who stutter • How the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower supports confidence and awareness in daily life Visit our website, Facebook, or Instagram for more resources.
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June 21 · 40 min
Motor Neurone Disease MND / ALS with Pauline Matheson Marks, MND Association and Jon Machel
We talk about motor neurone disease (MND), also known as Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), with Pauline from the MND Association and Joff, who shares what diagnosis and day-to-day life really look like. We explore how symptoms show up, why support and research urgency matter, and how small acts of understanding can make public spaces safer and kinder. What MND is and why symptoms vary so much The long process of ruling out other conditions Prevalence Resilience and adapting to change The helpful role of the Sunflower in preventing being misjudged If you are concerned about any of the subjects discussed in the podcast, please follow up with your healthcare practitioner for support. For support MND Association UK Irish Motor Neurone Disease The ALS Association USA ALS Canada Hosted by Chantal Boyle, Hidden Disabilities Sunflower. If you enjoyed this podcast, please leave a rating and review. Find out more about the Sunflower by visiting the website hdsunflower.com Music by © Sandee Facy / Michael Saleta www.sandeefacy.com.au
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S3 · E3
June 5 · 41 min
Bowel Cancer and Living with an Ostomy with Nicole Trimboli - Australia & New Zealand
In this episode of Sunflower Conversations, James Dunn speaks with Nicole Trimboli about surviving two cancers, living with a permanent stoma and ostomy bag, and rebuilding confidence when your body and life change fast. • Hodgkin’s lymphoma as a young mum and the mental scars that can linger • Daily life with an ostomy bag, diet planning and body image. • Writing What a Shit Show as a guide, a story and a form of therapy • Travelling with a hidden disability, airport security, toilets and the Sunflower lanyard • The harm of judging who uses accessible toilets and why visibility is not proof Purchase a copy of Nicole's book "What a Shit Show" Visit our website, Facebook, or Instagram for more resources.
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May 23 · 25 min
Understanding Schizophrenia with Alex Phillips, Mind in Camden
The topic for this episode is mental health and schizophrenia. If you are affected by anything we discuss, please follow up with your healthcare provider. We talk with Alex Phillips from Mind in Camden about schizophrenia and hearing voices, focusing on lived experience rather than frightening labels. We explore how people can recover, how families can offer support, and how everyday compassion reduces stigma. Hearing voices as an umbrella for different sensory experiences Why some experiences can feel positive or meaningful Living well and recovery without forcing voices to disappear Stigma in society and responding with a compassionate human approach How the Hidden Disability Sunflower can signal a need for patience If you are concerned about any of the subjects discussed in the podcast, please follow up with your healthcare practitioner for support. For support Intervoice - International National Hearing Voices Network - UK Hosted by Chantal Boyle, Hidden Disabilities Sunflower. If you enjoyed this podcast, please leave a rating and review. Find out more about the Sunflower by visiting the website hdsunflower.com Music by © Sandee Facy / Michael Saleta www.sandeefacy.com.au
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May 10 · 34 min
Early onset Alzheimer’s with Jay Reinstein, VOA Foundation
We talk with Jay Reinstein about his early-onset Alzheimer's diagnosis, from the first confusing moments at work to the fear, stigma, and family impact that followed. We also dig into what helps day-to-day, how advocacy restores purpose, and why practical support like the Sunflower lanyard can change a journey from panic to confidence. Noticing early cognitive changes in a high-responsibility job and seeking assessment Emotional shock of diagnosis, including anxiety, depression, and worry about being a burden Rebuilding purpose through boards, projects, and staying socially connected Daily adjustments Hidden Disability Sunflower lanyard and how it improves airport support for non-visible disabilities For support VOA Foundation - USA Alzheimer's Society UK Alzheimer's Society Ireland Alzheimer's Society Canada If you are concerned about any of the subjects discussed in the podcast, please follow up with your healthcare practitioner for support. Hosted by Chantal Boyle and Lynn Smith, Hidden Disabilities Sunflower. If you enjoyed this podcast, please leave a rating and review. Find out more about the Sunflower by visiting the website hdsunflower.com Music by "The Emerald Ruby" Emerald Ruby Bandcamp and Emerald Ruby website
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S3 · E2
May 3 · 43 min
Profound Hearing Loss – with Mel (Australia & New Zealand)
In this episode of Sunflower Conversations, James Dunn speaks with Mel Ogden about profound hearing loss alongside endometriosis, Hashimoto’s disease, and breast cancer, and how it's shaped her identity, work, and self-advocacy. Mel shares her journey from childhood through to adulthood, navigating communication, disclosure, and shifting access needs across different environments. Communication in daily life, including lip reading and the importance of captions Learning to disclose access needs, moving from masking to self-advocacy, and why confidence isn’t always linear The impact of chronic illness and cancer on identity, energy, and day-to-day life Challenging assumptions like “you don’t sound deaf” and how these moments shape the experience of non-visible disability Visit our website, Facebook, or Instagram for more resources.
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S3 · E1
April 7 · 37 min
Vitelliform Macular Dystrophy (Best Disease) with Fiona - Australia & New Zealand
In this first episode of Season 3, James Dunn returns as our new host, bringing thoughtful and engaging conversations to the forefront. He is joined by Fiona, an organisational design and HR leader with over 18 years’ experience, who shares her experience of living with vitelliform macular dystrophy (VMD), also known as Best disease, and how it has shaped her perspective on identity, accessibility, and inclusion. Growing up with a childhood diagnosis and navigating the evolving impact of progressive vision loss What progressive vision loss can look like in real life, why corrective lenses often cannot “fix” low vision, and the quiet internal question so many people carry: am I disabled enough to ask for help? Why experimenting with free technology can be a powerful first step towards inclusion. Practical workplace accessibility tools, including screen readers, magnifiers, and read-aloud features Creating more inclusive workplaces through awareness, flexibility, and thoughtful design Visit our website, Facebook, or Instagram for more resources.
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April 2 · 39 min
Autism - my life diagnosed with Aspergers with Alex Manners
We talk with Alex Manners, an autistic speaker and author. In this episode, Alex explains what autism feels like for him, from literal language and sensory stress to special interests, like football, that genuinely help him cope. We also explore how improved communication and practical inclusion tools, such as the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower, can make everyday life more accessible. In this episode, we cover a lot from school to employment. Below are just some of the topics we cover: Why Alex still uses the term Asperger's Special interests and how football and the football programmes support Alex's emotional regulation Why sarcasm, idioms, and vague questions cause real barriers Sensory sensitivities like labels, sock seams, and ticking sounds What autistic meltdowns are, how masking contributes, and what recovery feels like The importance of routine If you are concerned about any of the subjects discussed in the podcast, please follow up with your healthcare practitioner for support. Hosted by Chantal Boyle, Hidden Disabilities Sunflower. If you enjoyed this podcast, please leave a rating and review. Find out more about the Sunflower by visiting the website hdsunflower.com Music by "The Emerald Ruby" Emerald Ruby Bandcamp and Emerald Ruby website
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March 15 · 32 min
Multiple Sclerosis diagnosis to charity building Talks With MS
Terri Louise Brown, founder of Talks with MS joins us in this episode. We learn how to create a charity from scratch and discover the importance of community support for those living with multiple Sclerosis. Terri has relapse-remitting spinal MS and shares why she feels the power of community is essential, and her journey from an online group to creating a registered charity. We explore the inclusive Empowerment Awards, the importance of supportive educators, the use of technology for good, and why the Sunflower lanyard is a quiet voice for invisible disabilities. For support: Talks with MS The Empowerment Awards If you are concerned about any of the subjects discussed in the podcast, please follow up and seek support from your healthcare practitioner. Hosted by Chantal Boyle, Hidden Disabilities Sunflower. If you enjoyed this podcast, please leave a rating and review. Find out more about the Sunflower by visiting the website hdsunflower.com Music by "The Emerald Ruby" Emerald Ruby Bandcamp and Emerald Ruby website
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S2 · E10
March 2 · 22 min
AuDHD with Courtney Rosato – Australia & New Zealand
In this episode, Flic Manning chats with disability inclusion leader, Courtney Rosato, about her late diagnosis of Autism and ADHD, navigating diverse professional spaces, and how her lived experience informs systemic change. Late diagnosis and its impact on personal and professional identity Thriving in dynamic, fast-paced environments as a neurodivergent professional. Challenging workplace misconceptions about capability and communication Embedding proactive adjustments and neuroaffirming leadership Leading systemic change through policy, education, and capacity building Creating genuinely inclusive environments that benefit everyone Visit our website, Facebook, or Instagram for more resources.
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February 1 · 42 min
Palindromic Rheumatism, Comorbidities and Neurodivergence with Danielle Cudjoe Michalksi
Danielle is neurodivergent and lives with palindromic rheumatism, undifferentiated connective tissue disorder, endometriosis, and adenomyosis. We hear how her conditions intersect and why comorbidities complicate care. Danielle explains fascia and its effects on her body and organs. She also clarifies what palindromic rheumatism is: during flare-ups, pain moves around the body in episodes lasting hours or months, and a defining feature is the absence of joint damage, which often delays diagnosis. Danielle's mental health has also been affected, especially after serious problems like blood clots and lung infection. The conversation includes practical tools, guidance on workplace flexibility, and highlights the supportive power of the Sunflower community. For support: Arthritis Ireland Arthritis Action – UK Arthritis Society Canada Arthritis Foundation - USA If you are concerned about any of the subjects discussed in the podcast, please follow up and seek support from your healthcare practitioner. Hosted by Chantal Boyle, Hidden Disabilities Sunflower. If you enjoyed this podcast, please leave a rating and review. Find out more about the Sunflower by visiting the website hdsunflower.com Music by "The Emerald Ruby" Emerald Ruby Bandcamp and Emerald Ruby website
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S2 · E9
Dec 1, 2025 · 21 min
POTS and ME/CFS with James - Australia and New Zealand
In this episode, Flic Manning chats with sunflower advocate, James Dunn on sudden onset of Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS) and myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS), the long road to diagnosis, and how he rebuilt identity and purpose after stepping away from a legal career. • Energy budgeting and daily structure • Identity loss after leaving work and values reframing • Navigating public spaces with a hidden disability • Travel barriers, queues and access to seating • Workplace culture shift from proof to trust • Simple adjustments that help everyone Visit our website, Facebook, or Instagram for more resources.
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Nov 30, 2025 · 46 min
FND with Simone Round
Simone Round shares how a hand tremor evolved into a complex FND diagnosis, now consisting of tics, chronic migraines, non‑epileptic seizures, and the reality of becoming an ambulant wheelchair user. In this episode, Simone talks us through her journey from an active lifestyle and career, working over 70 hours a week, to the steps she now takes to support her mental health and wellbeing. She explains how she now takes pleasure in a much slower pace of life, mindfulness and connection with people who also live with chronic illness. Simone also describes the differences between carers and PAs and how her independence feels restored since having the aid of one. If you are concerned about any of the subjects discussed in the podcast, please follow up and seek support from your healthcare practitioner. For support: Visit your Healthcare practitioner FND Hope International FND Hope UK FND Action UK FND Ireland FND Matters Northern Ireland FND Hope Canada & USA Facebook support page Hosted by Chantal Boyle, Hidden Disabilities Sunflower. If you enjoyed this podcast, please leave a rating and review. Find out more about the Sunflower by visiting the website hdsunflower.com Music by "The Emerald Ruby" Emerald Ruby Bandcamp and Emerald Ruby website
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Nov 14, 2025 · 27 min
Type 2 Diabetes with Ashwin Soni
Ashwin Soni joins the Sunflower Conversations to discuss Type 2 diabetes, which began to affect him four years ago. We learn about the symptoms Ashwin experienced and the changes he has had to make to manage the condition effectively. Also discussed are the differences between type 1 and type 2 diabetes, providing a better understanding and greater awareness of what to look out for to seek a diagnosis. Whether you're supporting a loved one or just trying to refine your routine, you'll find grounded advice and hopeful takeaways in this episode, including accepting the diagnosis, learning the basics, and building repeatable habits to enjoy a long and fulfilling life. If you are concerned about any of the subjects discussed in the podcast, please follow up and seek support from your healthcare practitioner. For support: Visit your Healthcare practitioner Diabetes Ireland Diabetes UK Diabetes Canada American Diabetes Association Hosted by Chantal Boyle, Hidden Disabilities Sunflower. If you enjoyed this podcast, please leave a rating and review. Find out more about the Sunflower by visiting the website hdsunflower.com Music by "The Emerald Ruby" Emerald Ruby Bandcamp and Emerald Ruby website
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S2 · E8
Nov 4, 2025 · 20 min
AuDHD with Madeleine - Australia and New Zealand
Flic Manning chats with Madeleine Jaine Lobsey about Autism and ADHD, and how we can move from deficit thinking to joyful, neuroinclusive design across events and workplaces. They discuss: • Finding relief and reframing after an autism and ADHD diagnosis • Honouring personal needs as part of everyday life • Challenging common myths in leadership and creative roles • How lived experience helps shape inclusive cultures • Practical ways leaders can make inclusion real Visit our website, Facebook, or Instagram for more resources.
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