The Great Minds Podcast

In this opening episode of Season 6, we are joined by Jinny to explore what meaningful support looks like for neurodivergent people facing crisis. The conversation looks at the Dynamic Support Register and its role in preventing hospitalisation, placement breakdowns and repeated emergency intervention, alongside real world insight from intensive support work in both community and inpatient settings. We also touch on work alongside the criminal justice system and how adapted communication, therapeutic approaches and coordinated support can change outcomes. A thoughtful and honest start to the season that centres listening, understanding and always keeping the children and young people at the centre of everything we do. 

In the final episode of Series 5 of the Great Minds Together podcast, hosts Emma, Lucy and Rachel come together to reflect on everything 2025 has held. Guided by listener questions, the conversation looks back on a year of growth, challenge, learning and resilience across Great Minds Together and the wider systems we work within. From impactful programme delivery and the opening of the 5th Avenue Project community hub, to honest conversations about education, care and leadership, this episode offers a thoughtful and human reflection on what it really means to keep people at the centre. It is a grounded and hopeful close to the series, shaped by lived experience, shared values and a clear commitment to neuroaffirming practice.

In this honest and relatable Movember special, James and Stefan open the door to a conversation that many men have been taught to avoid. They explore what it actually means to share feelings, ask for support, and break away from the long standing idea that men must stay strong and silent. This episode is rooted in real lived experience, gentle humour, and genuine care. It shines a light on why mens voices matter, how supportive relationships grow, and how we can all play a part in changing the way society understands mens mental health.

In this insightful episode, host Michelle is joined by Kirsty, a Consultant Psychotherapist, and Daria, a Social Work consultant from Great Minds Together, to explore the importance of supporting neurodivergent young people through understanding, empathy, and flexibility.  The conversation focuses on creating safe, person-centred environments that empower young people to express their needs, goals, and aspirations. Together, they unpack the systemic barriers professionals often face and emphasise the value of open-minded, collaborative approaches to achieving better outcomes for every young person.

In this episode, Michelle sits down with Liz Walls to unpack what it really means to be a Personal Assistant (PA), exploring the diverse roles, responsibilities, and lived experiences behind the title.   They discuss what makes the PA role so vital, how parents and carers can access funded training through Skills for Care, and why understanding the employer–employee relationship is key when supporting neurodivergent children, young people, and adults.   The conversation highlights the importance of user-led training, available funding, and how to navigate the often-confusing world of recruitment, legislation, and support.   🎥 Video's Mentioned in this episode:   Skills for Care’s 3-Year Strategy Abi Bubb on Being an Individual Employer     🔗 Useful Links:   Training booking (North West) Skills for Care Website Great Minds Together     Tune in for practical insights, relatable stories, and guidance to help you make the most of the support available through Skills for Care and GMT.

In this episode of the GMT Podcast, we dive deep into the complexities of behaviour and societal expectations with our special guest and Great Minds Ambassador, Stephanie Davies. Ahead of Behaviour Awareness Week, we explore the impact of misinterpreted behaviours, the challenges faced in the public eye, and the importance of understanding neurodiversity.  Join us as we discuss personal journeys, the need for systemic change in education, and the launch of our exciting new 'But Why?' podcast campaign. Don't miss this insightful conversation that challenges norms and advocates for a more inclusive society.

In this episode, Michelle Myers speaks with Caroline, the founder of Parents in Mind, about her journey as a parent navigating the challenges of raising a child with autism. They discuss the struggles faced within the education and health systems, the impact of COVID-19 on schooling, and the importance of support networks. Caroline shares her experiences and insights on creating a supportive community for parents, empowering them with knowledge and resources, and the future aspirations for Parents in Mind.

In this episode, Michelle Myers is joined by Cerys and Akira to explore what it is like growing up as a neurodivergent young person in today's world. Through honest and open conversation and personal insights, they share their experiences of navigating education and relationships and the struggles they have faced fitting into a society that often misunderstands neurodiversity. 

✨ Season 5 is here – with a brand new look, feel, and focus! ✨  After some time away, the Great Minds Together podcast is back; refreshed, re-energised, and ready to spark change. In our first episode of the new series, CEO Emma Mander and Executive Director Lucy Dimond take you behind the scenes of GMT’s journey, from humble beginnings to influencing change on a national scale. We talk openly about:  Growing an organisation while staying true to your values  The realities (and challenges) of creating true inclusivity  Why the current education, health, and social care systems are failing – and how we can fix them  Our ambitious vision for systemic change across the UK Game-changing projects, including the Hampshire & Isle of Wight needs-led pathway  It’s raw, honest, and full of hope for a better future for children, families, and the professionals who support them.

In this Podcast, we explore the power of Neurodiversity in the workplace—why it matters and what we do to foster a fully inclusive environment. Our staff, Michelle, Annie, and Matthew, share personal experiences and expert insights on breaking down stigma, creating supportive workspaces, and implementing processes that help neurodivergent employees thrive. 

In this Podcast, Michelle Myers, Head of Autism Central, Central Services and Inclusive Practice, Annie Tilleke, Inclusive Practice Manager & North West Autism Central Wraparound Coordinator Lead and Emily Duxbury, Complex Case Practitioner discuss Children's Mental Health Week and share helpful information and strategies for identifying and supporting mental health.

SERIES FOUR - Episode Nine - Situational Mutism In this Podcast, Michelle Myers, Head of Autism Central, Central Services and Inclusive Practice, is joined by Suzy Zito, Deputy Head of Outreach as they discuss the complexities of this often misunderstood anxiety disorder where people find themselves unable to speak in specific situations.

In this Podcast, Lucy Dimond, Executive Director at Great Minds Together and Anthony Gillfillan and Jeff Burns both from the Early Help Team in Manchester discuss what Early Help support looks like and how families can access it.

In this Podcast, Michelle Myers is joined by Ailsa McDougall, Caseholding Supervisor and Jacob Lennon, Young Peoples Champion, in which Jacob discusses the challenges young people face as they transition through the education system and he shares his own experiences. 

In this Podcast Michelle Myers and Liz Walls discuss summer holiday tips for neurodiverse families.

SERIES FOUR  - Episode Five  In this podcast Michelle and Jamie discuss Learning Disability Week 

SERIES FOUR - Episode Four - Mental Health Awareness In this episode, Michelle Myers, our Head of Autism Central and Inclusive Practice discusses the celebrations and challenges of Mental Health Awareness with Kirsty Edgson. www,greatmindstogether.co.uk www.autismcentral.org.uk info@greatmindstogether.co.uk

On this episode, Michelle Myers and Emma Mander are joined by the wonderfully inspirational Stephanie Davis to celebrate Autism Acceptance Week.  We are truly honoured to have Stephanie as our Ambassador for Great Minds Together, to help promote awareness and help with understanding around Autism, Neurodiversity and the need behind behaviour in children.  Over the next 12 months we will be embarking on a number of campaigns together to help society move towards being more inclusive for neurodivergent people, and to encourage schools and children's homes to consider more therapeutic behaviour policies and approaches which will in turn support the mental health of neurodivergent children and young people, as well as their parents/carers more positively.  If you would like to get involved, you can email us at info@gmt.team  www.greatmindstogether.co.uk www.autismcentral.org.uk 

In this episode Michelle Myers, our Head of Autism Central and Inclusive Practice discusses the celebrations and challenges of Neurodiversity with Ailsa McDougall and Emily Duxbury.  www.greatmindstogether.co.uk www.autismcentral.org.uk

In this episode, Michelle Myers, Lucy Dimond and Jinnie Tong discuss Childrens Mental Health Week and share some helpful information and strategies around how best to identify and support children's Mental Health.  www.greatmindstogether.co.uk