Thriving with Autism

In this inspiring episode of Thriving with Autism, Jay from Autism Music Australia sits down with trauma-informed community music therapist Sarah Dunston from Melodica Music Therapy. Together, they explore how music can be a life-changing tool for emotional regulation, communication, and confidence building — especially for children and adults with autism and diverse abilities.

Sarah shares her personal journey from teaching to mus...

In this episode, Jay sits down with Erena from Abloom Care Services for a real conversation about what families truly need. Erena brings eleven years of experience with ASD, ADHD, and high physical support needs, and shares a powerful guiding question: Who is the person behind the plan? Together, they explore how behaviour communicates needs, how to create care that is compassionate and effective, and how to reduce overwhelm for ti...

In this heart-filled episode, Jay sits down with the inspiring Storm, a 24-year-old powerhouse and the founding director of Triple E Support Services in Brisbane, Australia.

From growing up surrounded by disability advocacy to creating transformative social programs that empower neurodivergent youth, Storm shares the story, spirit, and spark behind her work.

We explore:

• Practical tools to help parents avoid burnout and build ...

Overwhelmed by parenting and feeling like there’s no time left for you?

In this powerful episode, ADHD coach and mother of four neurodivergent children, Kirsten, reveals how she manages emotional chaos, juggles complex needs, and still builds Australia’s largest ADHD coaching centre... without burning out.

You’ll discover practical tools for emotional regulation, how to create space for your own dreams, and why your mission matters...

Meet Storm, the 24-year-old powerhouse behind Triple E Support Services, whose passion and innovation are changing lives across the autism and disability community.

In this heartfelt episode, Storm shares how growing up immersed in disability advocacy inspired her to create empowering social spaces for young adults.

From spontaneous singalongs to employment milestones, Storm's journey is proof that authentic connection and communit...

In this heartfelt episode of Thriving with Autism, Jay connects with Max from Brothers Support Network—a powerhouse of purpose doing extraordinary work with men living with disabilities.

From fishing trips to Stradbroke Island to everyday breakthroughs, Max shares how his team of “brothers” is redefining support, building real friendships, and creating spaces where boys and men aged 16 to 30+ can thrive.

Tune in for insights on par...

In this soul-stirring episode, Jay sits down with the enigmatic Tristan, a gifted songwriter whose musical journey is as raw as it is inspiring.

From dreaming full songs into existence to finding healing and balance through his instrument, Tristan shares how music has been his lifelong companion, not for fame or validation, but for the joy and release it brings.

Together, they explore the importance of creative freedom, the dangers...

In this high-energy episode, we dive deep into the transformative power of music education for kids on the autism spectrum and beyond.

Jay Hoad of the Australian Music School of Autism and Special Interest Learning, with special guest Belinda McKnoulty of Mystic Studio for Kids (Brisbane, Australia), share personal stories, game-changing insights, and the incredible progress they've witnessed. 

From breaking limiting beliefs to cre...

In this heartwarming and eye-opening episode of Thriving with Autism, we dive deep into the power of music, art, and emotional expression in supporting children on the spectrum.

Our guest shares an incredible story about a spontaneous family art exercise that transformed emotions and strengthened connections. We also explore music's healing frequencies, sound's role in emotional well-being, and how creative outlets provide a safe s...