The Sunflower Conversations

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 everyoneVisit our website, Facebook, or Instagram for more resources.

12/1/25 • 21:57

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 practitionerFND Hope InternationalFND Hope UKFND Action UKFND IrelandFND Matters Northern IrelandFND Hope Canada & USA Facebook support pageHosted 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.comMusic by "The Emerald Ruby" Emerald Ruby Bandcamp and Emerald Ruby website

11/30/25 • 47:28

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 practitionerDiabetes IrelandDiabetes UKDiabetes CanadaAmerican 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

11/14/25 • 27:54

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 realVisit our website, Facebook, or Instagram for more resources.

11/4/25 • 21:37

Content warning: In this episode, we are talking about the topic of mental health and refer to self-harm and suicide. If any of the conversation causes you distress and you need to speak to someone, please consider contacting a family member or friend for additional support. However, if you need professional help, please contact NHS 111 option 2 (in the UK) or your region’s emergency response number, or healthcare practitioner.Kelly Winstanley, the National Clinical Lead from the charity Mental Health Matters, joins us on this episode to explain the difference between mental wellbeing and poor mental health. At some point, everyone will experience poor mental health, which is why it is so important to talk about it to reduce the associated shame and stigma. Kelly provides us with some indicators to look out for, enabling us to spot changes early, seek help, and respond with calm, practical steps.  “…if people are listening find themselves experiencing symptoms or feel they’re struggling with their mental health or maybe they recognise that in other people, their family their friends or work colleagues, it’s really important to seek some help. See their GP, as soon as possible, again the earlier they treat it the better, but everyone different and these conditions can affect people in different ways.”For support:Visit your Healthcare practitionerCall NHS 111, option 2 - UKZero Suicide Alliance - UKHub of Hope - UKMental Health Helplines - USA Mental Health Support - CanadaMental Health Support - Ireland 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.comMusic by "The Emerald Ruby" Emerald Ruby Bandcamp and Emerald Ruby website

10/10/25 • 23:36

In this episode, Flic Manning chats with inclusion strategist Nicole Marshall on late autism diagnosis, unmasking, and the simple changes that make work humane and effective. • Self-discovery through adult autism diagnosis and identity work• The cost of masking and energy management• Common workplace misconceptions about neurodivergence• Lessons from teaching to inclusion strategy• Inclusion as good business and good practiceVisit our website, Facebook, or Instagram for more resources.

10/6/25 • 17:21

Nate Hadlock and Keely Cat-Wells, advocates from the United Ostomy Associations of America, join us to address common questions and dispel myths and the stigma about living with an ostomy.Millions of people worldwide have a stoma, yet there is a significant lack of knowledge and awareness about ostomies and the life-saving treatment they provide. Sharing their own journeys as ostomates, we discuss:Explanation of ostomy terminology, including different types: colostomy, ileostomy, urostomy and loop ileostomyCommon reasons people need ostomiesDaily life with an ostomy: emptying the bag, hygiene considerations, and travel preparationsMyth-busting: hygiene, activity, relationshipsNate and Keely share their own experiences with the psychological and emotional journey of adapting to life with an ostomy and dealing with public perception.If you are experiencing any issues discussed in this podcast, please contact your healthcare practitioner.SupportThe United Ostomy Associations of America  Colostomy UK Crohn’s and Colitis UKIA Northern IrelandCrohn’s’ and Colitis Ireland  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.comMusic by "The Emerald Ruby" Emerald Ruby Bandcamp and Emerald Ruby website

10/4/25 • 46:38

Lydia Best, President of the European Federation of Hard of Hearing People (EFHOH), shares her personal journey with hearing loss and explains the barriers faced by the Deaf and hard-of-hearing community. We discuss the emotional impact of hearing loss, technological solutions like cochlear implants, and practical ways to create more inclusive communication environments.Lidia explains what accessibility challenges exisit in various settings and explores what businesses and individuals can do to support those living with hearing loss and deafness.If you are experiencing any issues discussed in this podcast, please contact your healthcare practitioner.SupportEuropean Federation of Hard of HearingNational Association of Deafened People UK RNID UK Chime The National Charity for Deaf and Hard of Hearing People in Ireland Irish Deaf Society Hearing Loss Association of America Canadian  Hard of Hearing 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

9/27/25 • 51:33

Tim Wilkins from the Alzheimer's Society and Paul Hoskins join us to discuss dementia. The stigma and misconceptions around dementia often paint a bleak picture of life after diagnosis. Paul has a different story to tell as he is living with frontotemporal dementia and Alzheimer's.  "Some days can be very hard. Some days are a lot easier," Paul explains, offering a glimpse into the reality of living with dementia. Far from withdrawing from life, Paul has embraced new activities since his diagnosis – from cricket and bowling to tapestry clubs and community involvement. His story challenges the notion that a dementia diagnosis means the end of an active, engaged life. Tim explained that dementia is not simply one condition, but rather an umbrella term for symptoms caused by different diseases that affect the brain—emphasising that "dementia is not a natural part of ageing" – a crucial misconception that needs addressing.  If you are experiencing any issues discussed in this podcast, please contact your healthcare practitioner.SupportAlzheimer's Society UKAlzheimer's Society IrelandAlzheimer's Society CanadaAlzheimer's Society AmericaAlzheimer's Society AustraliaHosted 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.comMusic by "The Emerald Ruby" Emerald Ruby Bandcamp and Emerald Ruby website

9/21/25 • 40:49

In this episode, Flic Manning chats with Catherine Hanna, a proud Sunflower and road safety advocate. Catherine shares her journey with post-concussion syndrome, the misconceptions surrounding an invisible brain injury, and how writing poetry has helped her process trauma and rebuild her identity.• Post-concussion syndrome can occur without hitting your head or losing consciousness• Brain injuries don't always show up on CT scans as damage can be at a cellular level• The "mild" in mild traumatic brain injury refers to severity classification, not symptom impact• Catherine manages her condition by wearing earplugs, planning rest breaks, and avoiding overstimulating environments• The Sunflower lanyard helps Catherine carry earplugs and indicate her hidden disabilityVisit our website, Facebook, or Instagram for more resources.Check out Catherine Hannah Poetry here

9/1/25 • 21:16

This episode was recorded on Instagram Live.Hollie Christian Brooks joined us to discuss her new play "Yawn: A Chronically Fatigued Play", which draws from her personal experience with ME/CFS to educate audiences about non-visible disabilities and create new connections with the community.We discuss everything, from symptoms and periods to self-discovery and the power of the Sunflower.  ME/CFS often develops following viral infections like glandular fever, with Hollie’s diagnosis coming after years of recurring symptoms.The fatigue associated with ME/CFS differs from normal tiredness in that it cannot be alleviated by sleep and often includes flu-like symptoms, pain, and cognitive difficulties.Hollie created "Yawn" as both a personal healing journey and a way to connect with others who understand the isolation of chronic illness."Yawn" is designed to be accessible and inclusive, with concession tickets available for anyone who self-identifies as having a disability.  If you are experiencing any issues discussed in this podcast, please contact your healthcare practitioner.You can connect with Hollie on Instagram @yawn_play and find links to purchase tickets in her bio. 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.comMusic by "The Emerald Ruby" Emerald Ruby Bandcamp and Emerald Ruby website

8/31/25 • 41:44

Tasha Sorhaindo shares her journey living with multiple chronic health conditions and founding her charity, Chronically Marvellous, that supports individuals with non-visible disabilities.Tasha is autistic and lives with systemic lupus, dilated cardiomyopathy leading to heart failure, Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, arthritis and osteoporosis. After being able to run marathons and becoming gravely ill with only two weeks to live, Tasha decided to set up Chronically Marvellous to support others in a similar position with support groups that carers can also attend, counselling services and the provision of wheelchairs and electric scooters, as she understands the feeling of isolation.As a mum, her children are her priority, especially as they also have non-visible disabilities, including autism and the genetic long QT wave syndrome. Balancing being there for them, with chronic pain, fatigue, and breathing difficulties, is hard work, but it also gives her true insight into what services to offer.SupportChronically Marvellous Instagram @chronicallymarvellousFacebook /chronciallymarvellousLinkedIn chronically-marvellousHosted by Chantal Boyle, Hidden Disabilities Sunflower. If you enjoyed this podcast, please rate, review and share it to increase awareness and understanding of non-visible disabilities.Find out more about the Sunflower by visiting the website hdsunflower.comMusic by "The Emerald Ruby" Emerald Ruby Bandcamp and Emerald Ruby website

8/24/25 • 31:23

Ant Raje shares his journey of living with ADHD and deafness in one ear, exploring how they impact focus, communication, and identity. He challenges common misconceptions, reflects on the power of empathy, and shares why creating spaces where people feel seen and heard matters more than having all the answers.• Living with both ADHD and hearing loss creates unique challenges as paying attention (needed for hearing) is complicated by ADHD-related focus issues• Common misconceptions about ADHD include assuming someone isn't listening when they're doodling or not making eye contact• People with ADHD and hearing disabilities can make excellent leaders due to their strong empathy and creative thinking abilities• Clear written instructions benefit both people with disabilities and those from diverse cultural backgrounds• Creating safe spaces where people feel seen and heard is often more important than solving problems for them• Two simple ways to create a more accessible world: include disabled people in decision-making processes and practice basic kindnessVisit our website or find us on Facebook and Instagram 

8/3/25 • 17:19

Murray Golder shares his experience with epilepsy and Personal Independence Payment (PIP), highlighting how this support enables him to continue working full-time while managing his condition safely.Murray explains that his absence seizures, which can cause him to lose awareness for 20 seconds to 2 minutes, can place him in danger as he isn’t conscious of what he is doing. And more recently, as a consequence of the medication, Murray's memory function has deteriorated rapidly.PIP provides essential support towards Murray's costly transport needs and medication expenses If you are experiencing any issues discussed in this podcast, please get in touch with your healthcare practitioner.SupportDWP PIP PIPPS is a Sunflower member, specialising in providing legal support and online advice for tribunal appeals for PIP, ADP, ESA, and UC Claims.Hosted by Chantal Boyle, Hidden Disabilities Sunflower. If you enjoyed this podcast, please rate, review and share it to increase awareness and understanding of non-visible disabilities.Find out more about the Sunflower by visiting the website hdsunflower.comMusic by "The Emerald Ruby" Emerald Ruby Bandcamp and Emerald Ruby website

7/6/25 • 29:12

Laura Pedernuzzo shares her experiences living with multiple disabilities and provides invaluable insights into disability advocacy. She explains how both visible and invisible disabilities shape her daily interactions with the world, highlighting the unique challenges of each.• Living with cerebral palsy creates physical barriers, but the fatigue it causes is often misunderstood• People with borderline personality disorder are often mischaracterised as manipulative when they're simply trying to cope with intense emotions.• The concept of "crip time" acknowledges that disabled people don't have "the same 24 hours" as non-disabled people.• Approximately 44% of Australians have low literacy levels, making accessible communication essential.• Easy Read uses simple language and images to make information accessible to people with low literacy.• Continued COVID-19 precautions are vital for creating truly inclusive spaces• Small actions like acknowledging access needs show disabled people they matter and their needs aren't burdens but rights.

7/1/25 • 17:25

Andrea Carstensen, a double Master's student at the London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) and Sunflower Friend.Andrea discovered the Sunflower at Gatwick Airport after moving from the US to the UK for university. As a young person living with non-visible chronic health conditions, she shares her journey from Sunflower lanyard user to advocate. Through high-level UN advocacy and campus policy reform, Andrea has successfully championed the adoption of the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower at LSE through the Student Union, ensuring a legacy of inclusivity that extends beyond her time at the university.If you are experiencing any issues discussed in this podcast, please get in touch with your healthcare practitioner.For information:Learn more about the Sunflower hdsunflower.comHosted by Chantal Boyle, Hidden Disabilities Sunflower. If you enjoyed this podcast, please rate, review and share it to increase awareness and understanding of non-visible disabilities.Find out more about the Sunflower by visiting the website hdsunflower.comMusic by "The Emerald Ruby" Emerald Ruby Bandcamp and Emerald Ruby website

6/13/25 • 09:05

Erin Philpott shares her journey with Stargardt disease, revealing how she navigated diagnosis as a teenager and now balances motherhood while advocating for invisible disabilities in the workplace and beyond.• Erin faces significant daily challenges with transportation as a legally blind mother to a five-year-old• Often encounters misconceptions as she doesn't "look blind" without using a cane or guide dog• Erin chairs an employee-led committee advocating for disability, accessibility and inclusion• Erin emphasises that accessibility benefits everyone, not just people with disabilities• Advocates for building accessibility into initial designs rather than adding as afterthoughts• Challenges the stigma that disability means limitation: "Make it accessible and we'll come in droves"Please keep the conversation going via our Website, on Facebook, or on Instagram.

5/28/25 • 18:54

We welcome Sean Ewart and Manny Caro from the Spondylitis Association of America to provide an overview of Spondyloarthritis (SpA), a family of closely related inflammatory diseases that affect millions worldwide yet remain significantly under-recognised and diagnosed. Despite affecting more people than rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis, and ALS combined, SpA struggles with awareness.The primary disease in this family is ankylosing spondylitis (AS), also known as axial spondyloarthritis. This condition primarily affects the spine but can impact other joints throughout the body. Primary symptoms include inflammatory back pain, stiffness, reduced flexibility, fatigue, and sometimes spinal fusion.If you are experiencing any issues discussed in this podcast, please get in touch with your healthcare practitioner.For support and information:Spondylitis Association of AmericaNational Axial Spondyloarthritis Society UKArthritis IrelandAxial Spondylitis Support Program AustraliaHosted by Chantal Boyle and Lynn Smith, Hidden Disabilities Sunflower. If you enjoyed this podcast, please rate, review and share it to increase awareness and understanding of non-visible disabilities.Find out more about the Sunflower by visiting the website hdsunflower.comMusic by "The Emerald Ruby" Emerald Ruby Bandcamp and Emerald Ruby website

5/25/25 • 21:42

Terri Louise Brown has Relapsing Remitting Multiple Sclerosis (MS), experiencing frequent relapses and daily pain. In this conversation, Terri shares her journey from MS diagnosis at 27 to founding the charity Talks With MS. The charity provides community support for those living with multiple sclerosis. Cultural attitudes in BAME communities can create barriers to seeking medical help for chronic conditions, which is why Terri is committed to being the voice for the voiceless and encouraging people to seek medical and emotional support.We discuss how her personal experiences as a Black woman navigating disability have shaped her passionate advocacy for greater accessibility, representation, and understanding of non-visible disabilities. If you are experiencing any issues discussed in this podcast, please get in touch with your healthcare practitioner.For support and information:Talks With MSMS Society UKMS IrelandNational Multiple Sclerosis Society USAMS Plus AustraliaHosted by Chantal Boyle, Hidden Disabilities Sunflower. If you enjoyed this podcast, please rate, review and share it to increase awareness and understanding of non-visible disabilities.Find out more about the Sunflower by visiting the website hdsunflower.comMusic by "The Emerald Ruby" Emerald Ruby Bandcamp and Emerald Ruby website

5/18/25 • 49:16

Saran Chamberlain shares her journey as a young stroke survivor, from experiencing a life-changing event at 38 to becoming a national advocate for the stroke community. • Initially misdiagnosed as a migraine, the stroke left her entire left side paralysed with no sensation• Saran discusses the challenges of identity shift and the unseen deficits like fatigue, depression, and sensory overload• Highlights the isolation younger stroke survivors often face in healthcare and rehabilitation settings• Saran works on research co-design, speaks openly about stigma, and supports other survivors as a mentor.• Emphasises the importance of meaningful inclusion of people with lived experience in research using "nothing about us without us" principles• Believes in taking small wins and finding hope in the lifelong journey of post-stroke lifeVisit our website or find us on Facebook and Instagram

5/2/25 • 18:08

Join us as we welcome Shaylee Raye Hunter, Miss Petite Utah, who shares her journey as an advocate for women's rights and disability visibility. Shaylee opens up about her personal lived experiences with chronic intestinal pseudo-obstruction (CIPO), gastroparesis, and short bowel syndrome. In an open discussion, she shares how she manages her health conditions with medical interventions, such as a feeding tube and TPN, providing a unique glimpse into her life and the lifeline she depends on daily to receive the nutrients essential to life.We learn about the challenges Shaylee faced at school due to the assumptions made by other students about her health, as well as the subsequent difficulties she encountered in dating and the workplace.Shaylee is passionate about advocating for disability visibility through her pageant platform.If you are experiencing any issues discussed in this podcast, please get in touch with your healthcare practitioner.Hosted by Chantal Boyle and Lynn Smith, Hidden Disabilities Sunflower. If you enjoyed this podcast, please rate, review and share it to increase awareness and understanding of non-visible disabilities.Find out more about the Sunflower by visiting the website hdsunflower.comMusic by "The Emerald Ruby" Emerald Ruby Bandcamp and Emerald Ruby website

4/9/25 • 42:59

Téa Runback shares her personal journey living with multiple invisible disabilities, including autism, ADHD, and a collection of autoimmune conditions, while highlighting the barriers faced in healthcare and employment settings.

4/3/25 • 14:55

Kate Middleton, CEO of The Wren Project, joins us for a special edition as part of the Podcasthon, which seeks to spotlight thousands of charities.In this episode, Kate shares her personal journey with multiple autoimmune diseases and explains how the body attacks itself instead of viruses. The Wren Project pairs individuals with dedicated volunteers for up to six months of regular support. It provides vital mental health support through dedicated listening services to those living with these often non-invisible conditions, giving an essential lifeline to address and support feelings of isolation and loneliness.If you are experiencing any issues discussed in this podcast, please contact your healthcare practitioner.For support and information:The Wren ProjectDiscover more episodes as part of Podcasthon:PodcasthonHosted by Chantal Boyle, Hidden Disabilities Sunflower. If you enjoyed this podcast, please rate, review and share it to increase awareness and understanding of non-visible disabilities.Find out more about the Sunflower by visiting the website hdsunflower.comMusic by "The Emerald Ruby" Emerald Ruby Bandcamp and Emerald Ruby website

3/16/25 • 35:31

In this episode, we chat with Elisha Samuels, who recently won Hidden Disability Personality of the Year at The Empowerment Awards by Talks with MS. The award was sponsored by Hidden Disabilities Sunflower and presented by our podcast host, Chantal.Elisha shares her own unique experiences of living with multiple sclerosis, discussing her challenges, the importance of a supportive workplace, societal perceptions of living with a non-visible disability, and the Sunflower's value in making the invisible visible and its contribution to evoking dialogue about inclusivity and awareness.Elisha's poem, "Burnout" gives an insight to the challenges she has overcome and why she feels she received the nomination for the award.If you are experiencing any issues discussed in this podcast, please contact your healthcare practitioner.For support:Talks with MS The MS Society MS IrelandHosted by Chantal Boyle, Hidden Disabilities Sunflower. If you enjoyed this podcast, please rate, review and share it to increase awareness and understanding of non-visible disabilities.Find out more about the Sunflower by visiting the website hdsunflower.comMusic by "The Emerald Ruby" Emerald Ruby Bandcamp and Emerald Ruby website

3/9/25 • 19:06

“...we really need more representation of this so we can smash these attitudes for all disabilities.”Peta Hooke interviews Zoe, a disabled journalist, copyright, author and public speaker. Zoe is a passionate advocate fighting against ableism and removing the stigma. She discusses attitudinal barriers and how someone may have a disability that is not visible, but their reactions are, and we should pay attention to this. Although Zoe is yet to receive appropriate support wearing the Sunflower, she believes it can benefit many people like her with greater public awareness.If you are experiencing any issues discussed in this podcast, please contact your healthcare practitioner.The Sunflower Conversations is a Podcast where we explore the experiences of people living with hidden disabilities and what the Sunflower means to them. It’s a space to share your experience and to empower and encourage more people to support invisible disabilities.   A big thank you to Peta Hooke for conducting the interviews with compassion and respect and to Sandee Facy for the beautiful Sunflower song. You can follow Peta's I can't stand podcast here and Sandee Facy's music here.If you want to share your experience, get in touch with us by emailing us here. If you enjoyed this podcast, please leave a rating and review. Find out more about the Sunflower by visiting the website hdsunflower.com 

3/1/25 • 12:05

Karen Thackray from DEBRA UK and Lisa Irvine joined us to discuss the rare skin condition epidermolysis bullosa (EB), sometimes known as butterfly skin.Lisa and her daughter live with EB and offer first-hand insights into the genetic skin condition that causes painful blisters. Karen breaks down the four main types of EB and their varying impacts. Through our conversation, we aim to raise awareness and foster a deeper understanding of EB as a dynamic disability that causes severe pain, as well as the emotional toll of constant adaptation to manage and care for the skin and judgement of strangers.If you are experiencing any issues discussed in this podcast, please contact your healthcare practitioner. For support:DEBRA UK DEBRA Ireland DEBRA International  Hosted by Chantal Boyle, Hidden Disabilities Sunflower.  If you enjoyed this podcast, please leave a rating and review.Follow us on socials: https://www.facebook.com/hiddendisabilitiessunflower/https://www.instagram.com/sunflowerlanyardscheme/?hl=enhttps://www.youtube.com/@hiddendisabilitiessunflower https://www.linkedin.com/company/hidden-disabilities  Find out more about the Sunflower by visiting the website hdsunflower.com Music by "The Emerald Ruby" Emerald Ruby Bandcamp and Emerald Ruby website 

2/23/25 • 52:41

Chris Stratta from The Leprosy Missions is our guest this week on the podcast to educate us about how Leprosy, a curable disease often associated with stigma, affects thousands globally today. This episode explores its symptoms, the challenges those diagnosed face, and the critical role of education in combatting fear and discrimination.We discuss the importance of early detection and treatment to eradicate Leprosy, which is found in countries with poor sanitation and nutrition.Education is crucial in fostering kind and supportive communities so people affected by leprosy can live full lives. If you are experiencing any issues discussed in this podcast, please contact your healthcare practitioner.For support and to get involved:The Leprosy Mission InternationalThe Leprosy Mission Northern IrelandThe Leprosy Mission UKHosted 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.comMusic by "The Emerald Ruby" Emerald Ruby Bandcamp and Emerald Ruby website

2/2/25 • 24:47

“I think it's important for people to realise that disabled people can be successful.”Peta Hooke interviews Amelia, a queer, autistic and very opinionated social justice advocate (her words). Amelia combines the professional expertise as a social worker with her personal understanding of the intricacies of living with a non-obvious disability and talks about some of the unique challenges that often go unnoticed. Amelia demonstrates how someone can use the Sunflower to be seen and validated without explaining.For more information about Autism, please visit https://hdsunflower.com/au/insights/post/autismIf you are experiencing any issues discussed in this podcast, please contact your healthcare practitioner.The Sunflower Conversations is a Podcast where we explore the experiences of people living with hidden disabilities and what the Sunflower means to them. It’s a space to share your experience and to empower and encourage more people to support invisible disabilities.   A big thank you to Peta Hooke for conducting the interviews with compassion and respect and to Sandee Facy for the beautiful Sunflower song. You can follow Peta's I can't stand podcast here and Sandee Facy's music here.If you want to share your experience, get in touch with us by emailing us here. If you enjoyed this podcast, please leave a rating and review. Find out more about the Sunflower by visiting the website hdsunflower.com 

2/1/25 • 11:16

Join us as we welcome Lauren von Stackelberg, the Chief Diversity & Inclusion Officer at the LEGO Group, to the podcast to learn more about the new Sunflower customisable minifigures and LEGO sets featuring the official Sunflower.Lauren leads us through the iconic toy brand’s disability inclusion journey that started in 2011 beginning with a LEGO DUPLO character in a wheelchair, expanding over time to include the first Minifigure in a wheelchair, hearing aids, cochlear implants, a Minifigure with visual impairment and a guide dog, Minifigures with prosthetics, stoma bags, innovative products like the LEGO Braille bricks, and today, the addition of the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower lanyard. We hear why the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower is essential to the company’s progressive approach to supporting disability inclusion and reducing stigma and how it goes beyond individual toys but also includes the design of the sets to accommodate the characters within it.For more information:The LEGO GroupHosted 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.comMusic by "The Emerald Ruby" Emerald Ruby Bandcamp and Emerald Ruby website

12/22/24 • 27:54

This episode was recorded at Rise4Disability.Experience the world of accessible travel in aviation with Michael Connolly as we welcome him to the Sunflower Conversations podcast at the Rise4Disability event in Milton Keynes. Michael shares his vast knowledge of the hurdles faced by travellers with disabilities and how innovations like the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower are making a difference. The challenges and barriers faced by disabled passengers are varied. We discuss the varied levels of airport assistance available and how to access it to ensure a safe and accessible journey. We also hear about the Civil Aviation Authority's role in maintaining standards and the need for every aircraft to have onboard wheelchairs to ensure no passenger is left without support. Michael explains the importance of the Sunflower's discreet ability to indicate that support is required. We highlight how the lanyard empowers individuals, allowing them to travel independently while maintaining privacy. Please contact your healthcare practitioner if you are experiencing any issues discussed in this podcast.For supportSkywise SolutionsHosted 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.comMusic by "The Emerald Ruby" Emerald Ruby Bandcamp and Emerald Ruby website

12/15/24 • 37:34