105 - Parenting Outside the Box: A Guide to Neurodivergence with Madonna King and Bec Sparrow

Parenting is full of challenges, but when your child doesn’t quite “fit the box,” it can leave you with more questions than answers. This week on Boob to Food the podcast, we’re joined by two incredible guests, Madonna King and Bec Sparrow, to explore the topic of neurodivergence. In their new book, Out of the Box, Madonna and Bec unpack the complexities of raising and supporting neurodivergent children, offering practical guidance and hope for families navigating this journey. Madonna King is an award-winning journalist, best-selling author, and speaker with a passion for tackling complex issues faced by families today. Her work provides a voice for children and parents navigating the often overwhelming world of raising confident, connected kids.Bec Sparrow is a best-selling author, speaker, and advocate for young people. With a focus on fostering mental health and well-being, Bec has helped countless families understand and support children through life’s challenges. Together, their book, Out of the Box, is a resource every parent needs to navigate the world of neurodivergence with empathy and practicality.In today’s episode we discuss:What neurodivergence is and how parents can identify early signs Where parents should start if they suspect their child may be neurodivergentWhat typically happens after a diagnosis, including the types of support available and how to access it.The challenges families may face when navigating the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) How parents can collaborate with educators to advocate for their child’s needs at school without feeling like they’re "pushing too hard."Steps parents can take to address potential bullying or exclusion of their neurodivergent child... and so much moreToday’s episode was brought to you by Mini + Me. Mini and Me, a brand we have loved since they launched just over a year ago. Their very first product, Hydramama, is a game changer.  It’s an electrolyte drink that’s designed to support you and your family in pregnancy, postpartum or even if you are a tired mum looking for a pick me up. It is full of electrolytes, magnesium, methylated folate and vitamins and is endorsed by the Australian College of Midwives too.  Developed by a HG sufferer, Keira Rumble, Hydramama contains zero sugar and it is all natural. It’s a great way to keep hydrated and give some love to your body and baby during those head in the bowl moments. It’s perfect for breastfeeding mamas too and they taste so good – there are now 6 delicious flavours to choose from. They have just launched 2 brand new Hydramama flavours – Peach Iced Tea and Tropical. They come in convenient single serve sachets, so they are great for on the run, pram walks, park adventures, and even travelling. You can use the code BOOBTOFOOD for 20% off. Visit miniandme.co to fill your cup today.  Follow us on instagram @boobtofood to stay up to date with all the podcast news, recipes and other content that we bring to help make meal times and family life easier.Visit www.boobtofood.com for blogs and resources, to book an appointment with one of our amazing practitioners and more.Presented by Luka McCabe and Kate HolmTo get in touch please email [email protected]

To wrap up our book tour and celebration of Toddler to Table, join us for a special live recording of Boob to Food the podcast from our Byron Bay event. This event was such a beautiful conclusion to the tour, and we are glad to share a small part of it with you - we wish we could have shared the amazing breakfast spread with you too, but hey, technology isn't quite there yet!We dive into all things Toddler to Table—from navigating the unique nutritional needs (and wants!) of growing toddlers to creating joyful, stress-free mealtimes. We explore common feeding challenges, share practical tips from our book, and answer burning questions from the audience. Tune in and feel like you were there with us in Byron Bay.About our host Courtney Adamo:Courtney Adamo is a mother of five, author, and advocate for intentional family living. Known for her warm and relatable storytelling, Courtney shares her journey of raising children with a focus on simplicity, mindfulness, and creating meaningful connections. She is a passionate voice in parenting, and inspires families worldwide to embrace slow living and cherish the beauty of everyday moments. Did we mention she is a mother of 5! Her wisdom definitely comes from lived experience and she has so many insights to share.You can connect with Courtney on instagramListen to Courtney's episode on Boob to Food the podcast HEREToday’s episode is brought to you by Ooni. Looking for the ultimate gift? Ooni is your go-to for unforgettable outdoor entertaining and sunny day feasts. In just 60 seconds, whip up mouthwatering pizzas that bring the whole family together—perfect for feeding a crowd and creating memories as everyone learns the art of dough making. With a full range of oven sizes, Ooni fits every backyard, campsite, or beach trip. Choose from gas for effortless cooking or dive into the smoky flavors of charcoal and wood-fired options—Ooni has it all, plus essential accessories to level up your pizza game. And let's be real... great pizza is the gift that keeps on giving!You can use the code BOOBTOFOOD for 10% off until 31st Dec 2024. Visit ooni.com.auFollow us on instagram @boobtofood to stay up to date with all the podcast news, recipes and other content that we bring to help make meal times and family life easier.Visit www.boobtofood.com for blogs and resources, to book an appointment with one of our amazing practitioners and more.Presented by Luka McCabe and Kate HolmTo get in touch please email [email protected]

Is your baby showing signs they’re ready to start solids or are you wanting to be prepared with the latest evidence around this exciting milestone? In this episode, Luka and Kate dive into all the foundations you need to feel prepared and confident to begin your journey.For those who are tuning in for the first time, a little about us…Luka McCabe - founder of Boob to Food, author of Milk to Meals and Toddler to Table, as well as mum of 3Kate Holm - naturopath, nutritionist,  General Manager and Clinical Director of Boob to Food and mum of 3We cover all the essentials, including:Signs of readiness: How to know if your baby is ready to start solids (hint: it’s more than just age!).Essential equipment: What tools will actually make mealtimes easier (and what you can skip!).Best first foods: Our top recommendations for nutrient-packed, baby-friendly options.Rice cereal: Does it really deserve its long-standing place in baby food?Introducing allergens: Should you start offering allergens as early as 4 months?What’s normal: How much food should a baby this age actually be eating?... and so much more!Whether you’re just starting to think about solids or you’re feeling overwhelmed by conflicting advice, this episode is packed with practical tips and expert insights to help you feel confident and prepared.Resources Mentioned in This Episode:Our Starting Solids Equipment Guide – the ultimate list of our must-have tools.Our book, Milk to Meals – your go-to guide for starting solids with over 80 nourishing recipes.Our blog post with all you need to know about high chairsOur Starting Solids blog postInformation about sitting unassistedThis episode is proudly sponsored by Nutra Organics, our go-to for nourishing wholefoods for the whole family.If you’re looking to support your little one’s gut health (and make snack time fun!), check out their Gelatin – perfect for creating delicious, gut-friendly gummies - or if you're time poor (or just can't be bothered!) they also have their amazing Gutsy Gummies range and cutest gummy moulds. Packed with protein and designed to support digestion, these gummies are a great addition to your baby’s solid food journey.Use the code BOOBTOFOOD for 10% off your order. Visit nutraorganics.com.auFollow us on instagram @boobtofood to stay up to date with all the podcast news, recipes and other content that we bring to help make meal times and family life easier.Visit www.boobtofood.com for blogs and resources, to book an appointment with one of our amazing practitioners and more.Presented by Luka McCabe and Kate HolmTo get in touch please email [email protected]

How would you feel if you knew that the type of food you served your kids was not the most important thing for their health? Nor is the amount they eat either. Well, today's guest is will definitely have you breathing a sigh of relief. Dr. MacNamara’s wisdom is deeply reassuring, helping parents let go of feeding anxieties and embrace a more trusting, playful, and connected approach to family meals. Whether you’re navigating picky eating, sensitive kiddos, or mealtime chaos, this episode is packed with valuable insights and practical strategies to bring more ease and joy to the table.Dr. Deborah MacNamara is a developmentalist, counselor, and author of the highly acclaimed book Nourished: Connection, Food, and the Making of a Whole Human Being. Dr. MacNamara’s work dives deep into the intersection of food, connection, and child development, and she shares profound insights that every parent can relate to.In today's episode we discuss:What inspired Deborah to write Nourished and her thoughts on why the family meal is so important.How parents can create meaningful connection during mealtimes, even in busy and chaotic households.The developmental role of “picky eating” and how adults can guide children through natural eating stages.The influence of shyness instincts and brain integration on a child’s willingness to try new foods and develop as an eater.How heightened sensitivity affects some children’s eating behaviors and ways to support sensitive kiddos.Approaching feeding with less anxiety and more trust, while encouraging play and exploration to build positive food relationships.Strategies for handling external influences, like social media and family members, and rebuilding a positive connection with family meals.... and so much more!Resources Mentioned:Dr. Deborah MacNamara’s book Nourished: Connection, Food, and the Making of a Whole Human BeingDr. MacNamara’s websiteToday's episode was brought to you by Nourish’d, a game-changer for busy mums looking to enjoy healthy, delicious meals without the stress of cooking. Nourish’d delivers fresh, chef-prepared meals straight to your door, with a focus on whole, nutrient-rich ingredients and no hidden nasties. Whether you’re navigating the chaos of motherhood, juggling mealtimes, or just need a break, Nourish’d makes it easy to nourish yourself and your family while saving precious time.As a special offer for our listeners, first-time customers can use the code BOOBTOFOOD to get $15 off their first Nourish’d order until 20th December 2024. It’s the perfect way to take something off your plate (literally!) and focus on what matters most. Visit nourishd.com.au to explore their menu and experience the convenience for yourself!Follow us on instagram @boobtofood to stay up to date with all the podcast news, recipes and other content that we bring to help make meal times and family life easier.Visit www.boobtofood.com for blogs and resources, to book an appointment with one of our amazing practitioners and more.Presented by Luka McCabe and Kate HolmTo get in touch please email [email protected]

Becoming a mother brings incredible joy and love, but it also introduces new challenges – especially when it comes to how we feel about our bodies. Body image can feel like an overwhelming part of the motherhood journey - not just observing changes within ourselves, but also being mindful of the messages we are passing on to our kids. On today's episode we are joined by Revie Jane, whose candid insights are refreshing and relatable, and her advice will resonate with anyone looking to prioritise self-acceptance and redefine their relationship with their body.Revie Jane is a mother, entrepreneur and lifestyle influencer, put here on earth to create good from her story, inspire women the world over, and sprinkle joy wherever she goes. Today, Revie is loved on the internet and in the real world. But her story started long before her Instagram Stories. On a mission to ‘work on worthiness out loud’, Revie’s been generous about her difficult childhood and mental health struggles, helping thousands of women who’ve also faced adversity, sexual abuse and poverty, through speaking events and daily content.In today’s episode we chat about…Revie’s personal journey with body image and how her perception has evolved over time, especially since becoming a motherThe influence of social media on body image and how Revie manages it within the Instagram worldPractical, gentle steps for new mums to reintroduce exercise into their busy routinesApproaching postpartum fitness in a realistic, body-kind way that’s free from “bounce-back” pressureHow Revie intentionally talks to her daughters about body image, and what she hopes to instill in themKey ways parents can foster a positive body image in their children amidst societal pressuresEncouragement and advice for mums struggling with body image who feel unsure about how to start shifting their mindset... and so much moreYou can connect with Revie on Instagram or her website.Some other resources we mention or you might enjoyFat is fat and that is that bookToday's episode is brought to you by Banabae. Banabae is an Australian brand that fosters positivity in all that we do - living on the bright side! They celebrate family and home life by creating ethically made products with heart, soul and a sprinkle of nostalgia. Each product is designed to make you smile whilst having a positive impact on people and planet. They are a proud member of 1% for the planet and all of their products are made from natural, organic and recycled fibres - no synthetics or plastics. They are also an incredible one stop shop for Christmas gifting - even for the hardest to buy for recipients!You can use the code BOOBTOFOOD for 20% off until 6th December 2024. Visit banabae.com to check them out today.Follow us on instagram @boobtofood to stay up to date with all the podcast news, recipes and other content that we bring to help make meal times and family life easier.Visit www.boobtofood.com for blogs and resources, to book an appointment with one of our amazing practitioners and more.Presented by Luka McCabe and Kate HolmTo get in touch please email [email protected]

Happy 100 episodes and 1million downloads to us! We feel so excited, grateful and privileged to reach this huge milestone, and it wouldn't have been possible without all of our incredibly listeners. To celebrate we wanted to answer some of your questions about us and the podcast, as well as give you a little update about how things will look in 2025...For those who are tuning in for the first time, a little about us…Luka McCabe - founder of Boob to Food, author of Milk to Meals and Toddler to Table, as well as mum of 3Kate Holm - naturopath, nutritionist,  General Manager and Clinical Director of Boob to Food and mum of 3In this podcast we discussOur favourite and least favourite aspects of the podcastHow we knew we were done having kidsWhether we have always eaten this way and what our favourite "cheat" food isWhether our husbands share the mental loadThings we have learned about ourselves and motherhood this yearand so much more...A huge thank you to all of our listeners for being here for 100 episodes of Boob to Food the podcast! We have absolutely loved showing up in your ears each week, and look forward to a new format and more conversations in 2025!Follow us on instagram @boobtofood to stay up to date with all the podcast news, recipes and other content that we bring to help make meal times and family life easier.Visit www.boobtofood.com for blogs and resources, to book an appointment with one of our amazing practitioners and more.Presented by Luka McCabe and Kate HolmTo get in touch please email [email protected]

In this special episode in honour of World Fertility Day, we’re joined by Keira Rumble, entrepreneur, mother, and advocate, as she opens up about her deeply personal journey with infertility and hyperemesis gravidarum (HG). Keira shares the highs, lows, and everything in between – from enduring multiple fertility treatments to facing the debilitating symptoms of HG while parenting a toddler. Her story is one of strength, vulnerability, and the unwavering determination to build a family (and THREE incredible businesses), no matter the obstacles.Keira Rumble is an Australian mother, entrepreneur and the founder of Krumbled Foods, Habitual Beauty and Mini + Me. Fuelled by her personal health experiences, Keira is deeply passionate about helping people to take care of themselves and live a happy and healthy life.Keira’s journey to become an entrepreneur began with a pre-diabetic diagnosis in her early twenties and the iconic collagen snack bar, Beauty Bites was born. Personal struggles of infertility, loss, IVF, severe Hyperemsisis Gravadiarum, Endometriosis, mental health challenges and so much more, subsequently formed a roadmap for her business success with Habitual Beauty and most recently, Mini + Me.In this episode we chat about...Keira's journey with infertility and when she realised things might not happen naturallyThe emotional and physical impact of her physical journey and how she felt failed by the medical systemSome of the unexpected challenges and how she dealt with themHer experience with HG including parenting a toddler and running a business throughout!... and so much moreYou can connect with Keira on instagram or check out her beautiful businesses Mini + Me, Krumbled Foods and Habitual BeautyToday’s episode is brought to you by Summer Sun Label. This beautiful Australian company is our favourite when it comes to sustainable swimwear for all-year-round adventures. Their beautiful, brightly coloured wetsuits and swimwear keep the kids warm and protected - while also being so easy to spot on a busy beach or in the water. Made for kids 0-6 (but our 6.5 year olds are still happily wearing theirs!). You can use the code BOOBTOFOOD for 15% off their full priced items until 20th November 2024. Visit summersunlabel.com to check them out today.Follow us on instagram @boobtofood to stay up to date with all the podcast news, recipes and other content that we bring to help make meal times and family life easier.Visit www.boobtofood.com for blogs and resources, to book an appointment with one of our amazing practitioners and more.Presented by Luka McCabe and Kate HolmTo get in touch please email [email protected]

Can't attend our events in person? We've got you covered! Join us for a special live recording of Boob to Food the podcast from our Sydney Toddler to Table book launch event in collaboration with our friends at Le Puree! This episode brings the energy, excitement, and heartfelt connections from our incredible community of parents and caregivers, with the whole Boob to Food team, hosted by the beautiful Renee Bargh.We dive into all things Toddler to Table—from navigating the unique nutritional needs (and wants!) of growing toddlers to creating joyful, stress-free mealtimes. We explore common feeding challenges, share practical tips from our book, and answer burning questions from the audience. Tune in and feel like you were there with us in Sydney!About our host Renee Bargh: Renee has established a name for herself as one of the premier hosts in the Entertainment industry and is currently the entertainment reporter for the Today Show. Alongside her TV role, she hosts the podcast Mum Era, where she dives into the challenges and joys of motherhood, offering an honest look at parental wellness and the balance between career and family life. Now a mum herself with baby number 2 on the way, Renee brings her unique experiences to both her podcast and television, connecting deeply with audiences through her authenticity and insight.You can connect with Renee on instagram or her podcast Mum EraListen to Renee's episode on Boob to Food the podcast HEREAbout Erin Jeries from Le Puree: Erin Jeries is the founder of Le Puree, a brand dedicated to providing wholesome, nutrient-rich meals for babies and toddlers. With a deep commitment to supporting parents in feeding their little ones fresh, organic food, Erin’s mission is to make nutritious meals easy and accessible for busy families. Through Le Puree, she combines her passion for quality ingredients with a practical approach to early childhood nutrition, empowering parents to introduce healthy eating habits from the very start.Today’s episode is brought to you in collaboration with Le Puree. The first 1,000 days of life are essential in shaping lifelong healthy eating habits. Le Puree delivers nutrient-dense meals designed to support a child’s development and build a foundation for a lifetime of healthy choices. Le Puree's recipes are expertly crafted by an accredited practising dietitian, ensuring they include brain-boosting, growth-fuelling, strength-building, and vision-sharpening ingredients for babies, toddlers, and beyond.And the best part? They arrive snap-frozen, ready to go right at your doorstep! Each dish is made with love, using locally sourced, farm-fresh produce, and prepared in their Sydney kitchen by their head chef and his dedicated team. It takes a village—Le Puree is proud to be part of yours.You can use the code BOOBTOFOOD10 for 10% off the range. Visit lepuree.com.au to check them out today.Follow us on instagram @boobtofood to stay up to date with all the podcast news, recipes and other content that we bring to help make meal times and family life easier.Visit www.boobtofood.com for blogs and resources, to book an appointment with one of our amazing practitioners and more.Presented by Luka McCabe and Kate HolmTo get in touch please email [email protected]

Today on Boob to Food the podcast we dive into the realities of single motherhood with Jessica Dover.  We discuss the emotional, physical, and mental toll that single parenting can take, and how Jessica has learned to navigate the ups and downs while raising her child on her own. If you are a single parent or know someone who is, this episode will offer support, validation, and practical tips for navigating parenthood on your own. Jessica’s story reminds us that, while the journey may be different, the love, strength, and joy of motherhood remain the same.Jess Dover is an Australian content creator, model, teacher, and single mother to her four-year-old son Seb. Known for her down-to-earth and relatable approach, Jess has built a strong online community by sharing her experiences in motherhood, alongside her love for fashion and everyday life.She has collaborated with major brands like Bvlgari, La Roche-Posay, and Pandora, but her most meaningful project (apart from being a mum) is Something Sebastian—a personalised baby blanket brand she co-founded with her brother during her journey through motherhood. She has generously offered a discount to the Boob to Food community which is BOOBTOFOOD20 for 20% off sitewide. In this podcast we discussSome of the biggest challenges faced as a single mum - both logistically and emotionallyThe weight of the financial responsibility and navigating working while being a single motherPressures or judgements from society, and how important it is to lean on your community during this timeBalancing taking care of a child, while also taking care of your own needsCo-parenting and how to navigate thisWhen to consider dating and how to know if the time is rightand so much more...Want to join us on our Book Tour? We would love to meet you! Check out all the details of our 4 live events and buy your tickets HEREToday’s episode is brought to you by Chief Nutrition. The Thankful Bars are a collaboration between one of our favourite nutrition brands, Chief Nutrition, and Thankful.org who - through collaborations like these - raise funds to address global issues. For example, Thankful For Farmers funds projects to support sustainable agriculture and regional communities; and through Thankful For Women, they work with under-represented and vulnerable communities to empower women and girls to promote gender equality and eliminate violence against women. The bars are made with oats and seeds and covered in a delicious dark chocolate. They're high in prebiotic fibre for gut health and also lunchbox friendly. There's also a QR code on the back which will take you to a free "Thankful Challenge" designed to help you become 25% happier in 30 days through the practice of gratitude.You can use the code BOOBTOFOOD for 20% off all Chief products. Visit wearechief.com to check them out today.Follow us on instagram @boobtofood to stay up to date with all the podcast news, recipes and other content that we bring to help make meal times and family life easier.Visit www.boobtofood.com for blogs and resources, to book an appointment with one of our amazing practitioners and more.Presented by Luka McCabe and Kate HolmTo get in touch please email [email protected]

Feeling like your sex life has gone the way of uninterrupted sleep? You’re not alone! In this episode of Boob to Food the podcast Melody Thomas, creator of The Good Sex Project, explores how to reignite intimacy after kids—and why it’s okay if things are a little… different these days.Melody Thomas is a New Zealand-based podcast creator, writer, and co-founder of Popsock Media. She is best known for hosting The Good Sex Project, a podcast that explores candid conversations around sex and relationships, released through Stuff in 2023. Prior to that, she created and hosted BANG!, a multi-award-winning series for RNZ that delved into intimacy and sexuality. Melody’s work extends beyond podcasting—she's a writer and columnist for publications like Capital and Sunday magazines, and she’s currently working on her first book.In this podcast we discussWhy it seems like men are always ready to have sex, but women take longer to be interestedWhether how often you have sex is important (and what is actually normal!)The importance of non-sexual intimacy and what that might look likePractical tips for getting in the mood, or should we just be having sex even if it feels like a choreAdvice would you give to parents trying to maintain their sexual connection?and so much more...A few resources we mention or you might enjoy:Dipsea appQuinn appWant to join us on our Book Tour? We would love to meet you! Check out all the details of our 4 live events and buy your tickets HEREToday’s episode was brought to you by Part & Parcel. Part & Parcel is our favourite one stop shop for pantry staples – not only do you have the convenience of them being delivered straight to your door (who wants to go shopping with 3 kids!), but they have also curated the most incredible range of organic, ethical and sustainable products so you don’t have to waste your time researching ingredients on labels. They’ve done the work for you. But be warned… you may want to add one of everything to your cart like Kate! Thankfully their annual membership allows members to receive extra savings on their shop (so maybe you can add that extra block of chocolate!).You can use the code BOOBTOFOOD for $20 off your first order over $99. Visit www.partandparcel.com.au to shop today!Follow us on instagram @boobtofood to stay up to date with all the podcast news, recipes and other content that we bring to help make meal times and family life easier.Visit www.boobtofood.com for blogs and resources, to book an appointment with one of our amazing practitioners and more.Presented by Luka McCabe and Kate HolmTo get in touch please email [email protected]