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 music therapy, and the profound transformations she’s witnessed through rhythm, breathwork, and connection. Jay and Sarah also dive deep into how traditional music education can evolve to become more inclusive, intuitive, and healing — bringing back the heart, spirit, and science of sound.

🌟 Key Topics Covered:

• What music therapy really is and how it helps people across the lifespan

• Using rhythm, breath, and movement for emotional regulation

• Why adaptability and connection matter more than rigid teaching methods

• The intersection of music, spirituality, and Indigenous healing traditions

• Simple daily practices parents can use to boost their child’s confidence

🎶 Whether you’re a parent, educator, therapist, or music lover, this episode is packed with insight, inspiration, and practical tools to help children thrive through music.

🔗 Learn more about Sarah at melodica.com.au

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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 time-poor parents.

Inside, you will hear • What dignity-driven care looks like in everyday life, including complex behavioural support • How to advocate with confidence, and why families deserve to be heard, respected, and included • Practical ways to navigate changing NDIS settings with more clarity and less stress • Erena’s simple four-step onboarding that centres the person, the family, and allied health teams • Why consistent supports and predictable rhythms build trust and progress • How Autism Music Australia’s weekly live jam sessions give kids confidence and give parents time back

Who this helps Parents and carers seeking calm, clarity, and supportive partners who listen. Educators and support coordinators who value collaboration. Anyone who believes that every child can shine with the right environment.

Stay connected Join the Autism Music Australia community to access colour-coded programs, weekly live jam sessions, and parent training. Share this episode with a family who could use a little hope and a lot of support today.

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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 connection

• The power of community in raising confident, resilient kids

• Surprising insights from neurodivergent young people

• Music, memory, and the healing force of creative expression

Storm’s story is one of radical heart-leadership and soulful service. Whether you're a parent, carer, educator, or ally, this episode is packed with tools, truth, and tenderness.

🎧 Tune in to feel uplifted, empowered, and maybe even a little emotional.

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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 just as much as your child’s therapy schedule. If you're tired of being stuck in survival mode, this episode is your wake-up call—and blueprint for what’s possible.

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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 community can transform lives.

Tune in for tools, hope, and a powerful reminder that thriving with Autism begins with believing in ourselves.

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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 parenting, empowerment, and the power of choice, and discover why connection, tone, and community truly matter.

This is one you’ll want to share.

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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 of rigid teaching, and how music can make you truly proud of yourself. Whether you're a parent, teacher, or aspiring musician, this conversation is a powerful reminder of what happens when you trust your own sound.

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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 creating safe, supportive spaces for kids to thrive, this conversation is packed with inspiration.

Discover how rhythm, movement, and music can unlock confidence, cognitive growth, and deeper family connections. Plus, hear about an exciting FREE 7-day experience that will redefine how you see online music learning.

Get ready for passion, fire, and real talk—because when kids are given the right tools, they don’t just learn music; they thrive. 🎶🔥

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