Neurodivergence, Family and Faith
Neurodivergence, Family and Faith is a podcast for Christian parents and carers raising neurodivergent kids, and for the churches and friends who walk alongside them. Each episode offers practical tools, grounded in research and shaped by the wisdom of the Bible. Hosts Kate Morris and Dave Whittingham draw on their backgrounds in theology, education, and ministry, as well as the experiences of their families. Both are parents of neurodivergent kids, and Dave is neurodivergent himself. Kate has completed further study in neurodivergence, and is an Honorary Research Fellow with Mary Andrews College (Australian University of Theology). Together, they bring both understanding and expertise as they explore topics like managing energy, navigating sensory differences, and finding joy and belonging in church and family life. Whether you’re doing the dishes, chasing the kids, or catching a quiet moment, this podcast offers comfort, encouragement, and guidance to help your family thrive for God’s glory.
Update
Dave Whittingham and Kate Morris drop a quick hello to update listeners on the podcast’s growth, global reach, and the positive impact it’s had on families. They tease season three, promising diverse guests from lived experiences and academia, while also addressing funding needs
Special Interests - 20
This episode explores the role of special interests in the lives of many neurodivergent people, and why they can be so helpful for deep comfort, regulation, connection, and joy
19. Hospitality Guided by Grace
Hospitality can feel complicated in families with neurodivergent members, especially when routines, sensory needs, exhaustion, or unexpected changes make “normal” hosting difficult. This conversation explores how Christian hospitality can still be meaningful, flexible, and life-giving without copyin...
18. Unlocking Understanding: Joel Moroney on Neurodivergence and Faith
Joel Moroney, a neurodivergent Christian man with over 20 years of ministry experience, shares his unique perspective on faith and neurodiversity. Joel is currently working for Jesus Club, which is a Christian group for adults with intellectual disabilities. He is also an advocate for Christian neur...
17. Embracing Limitations: Finding Freedom in God's Plan
How do you cope with being limited? In this episode, Dave and Kate explore the idea that perhaps being limited is not as bleak as it seems, but instead, it's woven into God's good design for our lives. This discussion stems from a chapter written by Kate in Parenting in God's Family, Volume 2 , whic...
16. Diving Deep: Answering Your Big Questions on Neurodivergence
How do we help a socially anxious person discover Jesus when they can't come to church? How do we know when neurodivergence has become an unhelpful identity issue? Are there neurodivergent people in the Bible? In this episode, Kate and Dave discuss questions that have been asked of them, and explore...
15. After the Meltdown: What happens Next?
When the breathing slows and things settle down, what happens next? Kate and Dave delve into the critical aftermath of a meltdown, emphasizing the importance of recovery and communication with loved ones. They explore how to recognize the signs that indicate a person is transitioning out of a meltdo...
14. Meltdowns: When Built-Up Pressure Releases
What is a meltdown and what can we do when someone we love experiences them? It is important to understand what is happening for the person so those around them can show appropriate love and grace. In the next episode, we will explore what to do after a meltdown and how to find helpful ways forward....
13. Visiting the Doctor: Tips from Dr. Kim Hoa Rogers
Dr. Kim Hoa Rogers joins the show to dive into the complexities of supporting the medical needs of neurodivergent children. With her unique perspective as both a medical practitioner and a parent of neurodivergent kids, she shares invaluable insights on how to navigate the often-challenging experien...
12. Marriage Matters: Neurodiversity in Relationships with Mairi Girgis
How can marriages flourish when there is a mix of neurotypes in the couple? In this episode, Mairi Girgis, a couples counsellor with years of experience in this area, joins Kate and Dave to discuss some of the complexities of marriage and parenting within neurodivergent families. With her extensive ...