Open Wired with Natalie Phillips-Mason

About Open Wired with Natalie Phillips-Mason

Open Wired is an Australian podcast about neuroinclusion, neurodiversity and disability inclusion at work, in retail and in the boardroom. Host Natalie Phillips-Mason, founder of Inclusive Change, talks with real people solving inclusion challenges, with respectful curiosity and candid conversation.

Publisher

Natalie Phillips-Mason

Category

society & culture

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

28 May 2026

Latest episode

29 Sept 2026

Latest episodes

17 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   29 Sept 2026

   A Blueprint for Disability Employment with Bianca Stern

   About this episode Bianca Stern is the Head of Impact and a founding member of All Things Equal, a Melbourne-based social enterprise empowering people with disability through award-wage employment, purposeful training, and pathways to rewarding careers in hospitality. Named in the Forbes 30 Under 30 Asia list for 2025, Bianca is a recognised leader in the social impact sector, with deep experience across inclusive employment, disability advocacy, and social enterprise. Her work focuses on transforming community attitudes and building scalable models that empower people with disability to contribute and lead. Key Takeaways - Why award wage employment is a necessary part of disability employment - Why hospitality is the sector of choice - How the All Things Equal Blueprint for Disability Employment is shaping equity - How All Things Equal uses technology and visual aids in it's programs. Resources Bianca Stern | LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/bianca-stern-33a026181/)Social Enterprise Café & Catering Melbourne | Inclusive Employment | All Things Equal (https://www.allthingsequal.com.au/) Equal Opportunity Report — All Things Equal (https://www.allthingsequal.com.au/equal-opportunity-report)

2. 

   22 Sept 2026

   Unpacking intersectionality, power and privilege with Parul Singh

   About this episode Parul is a first-generation immigrant who lives in the UK. She is a later in life diagnosed AuDHD (Autistic and ADHD) woman of colour who experiences chronic illness. Parul works in talent acquisition, and platforms intersectionality, power and privilege to create awareness of systemic barriers. Resources LinkedIn profile https://www.linkedin.com/in/parul-parallel-minds/ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/parul-parallel-minds/) https://kimberlecrenshaw.com Neurodiversity resource bank https://parallelminds.notion.site/The-Ultimate-Neurodiversity-Resource-Bank-d1c7bc26584c47998180cb227cc1d2b7?pvs=4 (https://parallelminds.notion.site/The-Ultimate-Neurodiversity-Resource-Bank-d1c7bc26584c47998180cb227cc1d2b7?pvs=4) Wheel of privilege https://www.gla.ac.uk/media/Media_1144482_smxx.pdf (https://www.gla.ac.uk/media/Media_1144482_smxx.pdf) The UN guide to intersectionality https://www.unwomen.org/sites/default/files/2022-02/Intersectionality-resource-guide-and-toolkit-large-print-en.pdf (https://www.unwomen.org/sites/default/files/2022-02/Intersectionality-resource-guide-and-toolkit-large-print-en.pdf)

3. 

   15 Sept 2026

   Neuroinclusive Workplace Design with Kay Sargent

   About this episode Kay Sargent is a global leader in shaping purposeful, human-centered environments. As Director of Thought Leadership, Interiors at HOK, she pioneers workplace strategy and real estate innovation. Kay is a renowned advocate for neuroinclusive design and creating built environments that work for everyone. Kay authored Designing Neuroinclusive Workplaces and has testified before the U.S. Congress on the built environment. Her influence spans advisory roles with Delos, IFMA, and ASID. Recently honored with the 2025 ASID Luminary of Distinction and recognized as a Top 50 Global FM Influencer, Kay remains at the forefront of creating inclusive, impactful spaces that navigate the future of work. In this episode we discuss how Kay became interested in design, her career experiences as a female in a male dominated industry and how neuroinclusion shapes her work. Resources: HOK: A Global Design, Architecture, Engineering, Planning Firm (https://www.hok.com/) Kay Sargent | LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/kay-sargent-53b2431/) Designing Neuroinclusive Workplaces: Advancing Sensory Processing and Cognitive Well-Being in the Built Environment | Wiley (https://www.wiley.com/en-us/shop/general-introductory-architecture/designing-neuroinclusive-workplaces-advancing-sensory-processing-and-cognitive-well-being-in-the-built-environment-p-9781394309344)

4. 

   8 Sept 2026

   The Capitalist with a Social Heart with Paul Zahra

   About this episode Paul Zahra has spent much of his career in retail. From pushing trolleys to leading retail giant David Jones through a tumultuous period. Paul is also one of the few corporate executives who is openly gay and spoke out for Marriage Equality when few others were vocal. In this episode, Paul speaks with raw honestly about his professional and personal journey. Key Takeaways Leading through times of transformation Inclusive Boards How leaders can create inclusive organisations Social impact and purpose. Resources Paul Zahra | LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/paulzahra/) Australian Made Cruelty Free and Vegan Makeup Products – KIND Collective (https://www.thekindcollectiveaustralia.com/)

5. 

   1 Sept 2026

   Employee-led Inclusion with Tristan Lavender

   Tristan Lavender is an international speaker and consultant on neuroinclusion at work. Drawing on 15 years of global business experience and a lifetime of lived experience as an autistic person, he helps organisations create workplaces where everyone can do their best work. A recipient of the Bridgemaker Award at the Davos Neurodiversity Summit, Tristan is a sought-after speaker on how to build successful employee resource groups (ERGs). Resources: Tristan Lavender | LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/tristanlavender/) Davos Neurodiversity Summit — 2027 (https://davosneurodiversitysummit.com/)

6. 

   24 Aug 2026

   Ending Period Poverty with Rochelle Courtenay

   About this episode Rochelle Courtenay is the Founder and force behind Sharethe Dignity, a national charity dedicated to ending period poverty in Australia. Rochelle has spent years working to change policies and outdated ideas that don’t serve women andgirls, providing homeless and at risk women nationally withsanitary products to allow them a sense of dignity at a time when they need it most. Rochelle has been instrumental in removing Goods and Services Tax from period products in Australia, providing feminine hygiene products to disadvantaged women and providing access to products through free vending machines in schools. This episode mentions homelessness, domestic violence and indigenous health. Concepts mentioned: The Bloody Big Survey: Australia’s largest body of research on Menstrual Health. #AxeTheTax: public campaign to remove Goods and Services Tax (GST) and re-categorise period products as non-luxury items. Period poverty Resources: Share the Dignity | Ending Period Poverty in Australia (https://sharethedignity.org.au/)

7. 

   18 Aug 2026

   Fostering Diamonds in the Workplace

   Johanna Barker is an experienced Board Member specialising in finance, governance and technology. She has held senior corporate positions and leadership roles with responsibility for strategy, operations, governance and the bottom line. Joh was diagnosed autistic in her 50s, well into her corporate career. In this episode, Joh talks candidly and honestly about her approach to leading and fostering talent. Joh doesn't mince her words. She is a straight shooter, pragmatic and reflective. This conversation offers unique insight into the mind of a neurodivergent parent, academic and corporate leader.References that Joh has asked us to include in the episode description: Heisenberg's uncertainty principle: Heisenberg Uncertainty Principle - GeeksforGeeks (https://www.geeksforgeeks.org/physics/heisenberg-uncertainty-principle-definition-equation-significance/) Specialisterne: Specialisterne Global - Specialisterne Global (https://specialisterne.com/) Crime thriller with an autistic lead character:Patience (TV Series 2025– ) - IMDb (https://www.imdb.com/title/tt31495377)

8. 

   10 Aug 2026

   The Book Lover who went Blind with Karen McCarthy

   About this episode: Karen McCarthy believes in the inherent dignity of people and is committed to reducing the impact of factors that limit how freely they’re able to enjoy full and flourishing lives. Karen lost her sight as a result of complications to remove a tumour on her pituitary gland in her mid 30s. She survived and is now a keynote speaker on resilience and adaptability. Karen is a Board member in the not-for-profit sphere, working to strengthen and steer organisations that break down barriers for, and advance the rights of, people who are vulnerable to discrimination and disadvantage. She loves books, ballet and stretching the boundaries of what she’s capable of. Key Takeaways: One person’s lived experience of acquired disability Just because you can’t do something doesn’t mean you can’t do something differently. Adversity and resilience. Resources: Karen McCarthy - Keynote Speaker (https://www.kdmccarthy.com/) LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kdmccarthyspeaks/?lipi=urn%3Ali%3Apage%3Ad_flagship3_profile_view_base_contact_details%3BqNiaxjv8TImE2BFOUXIg%2Fg%3D%3D

9. 

   3 Aug 2026

   The Hidden Disability Sunflower with Sandee Facy

   About this episode: We explore the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program, first initiated at Gatwick airport in 2016. Today, the Sunflower is a visible symbol of accessibility in 300 airports and in venues and workplaces across the globe. Key Takeaways: - The Sunflower is a symbol for non-apparent differences and disabilities. - The lanyard empowers its wearers to communicate discreetly that that they may need support - The Sunflower symbol is in over 300 airports around the world as well as in Retail, Transport, Railway, Healthcare, Education, Entertainment venues, Sporting clubs and Financial sectors. - The Sunflower has been launched locally in Australia, Brazil, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, Ireland, Latin America, the Netherlands, New Zealand, the UK, the UAE and the USA. - Organisations can utilise the Program for their employees. References: Bayley House: Bayley House - NDIS Disability Support Services in Bayside Melbourne (https://www.bayleyhouse.org.au/)LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/sandeefacy/ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/sandeefacy/) HDS: A symbol for non-visible disabilities, also known as hidden disabilities or invisible disabilities. (https://hdsunflower.com/au/)

10. 

    28 Jul 2026

    Putting the Human back into the Hiring game with Ryan Kelly, Founder of Creative Natives

    About this episode: We talk to Ryan Kelly, Director and Founder of Creative Natives, a talent partner for the Australian digital and creative sectors. Ryan works with brands to transform their team cultures and helps top-tier talent land their dream gigs. At the same time, Creative Natives was built on an ethos of human connection and compassion, with a strong lens on the commercial benefits of hiring for and with flexibility. Key Takeaways: Starting a recruitment agency with purpose, and why human connection in the hiring space is critical Recruiting and leading with empathy The benefits of flexible, freelance and part-time roles for organisations and candidates AI and its impact on the recruitment industry. Links: Ryan’s profile: linkedin.com/in/ryanpatrickkelly99 (https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanpatrickkelly99/) Website: creativenatives.com.au (https://www.linkedin.com/safety/go/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fcreativenatives%2Ecom%2Eau%2F&urlhash=JTzl&mt=9S4j51ts5oL9wfjaEnr9SWV5VSBePdS24fx8CCBf1aQkIWOOFUYg9od88lm_OD5oCLaFDBxXUaoT-XbHm7H7x-fW&isSdui=true) Email: ryan@creativenatives.com.au (mailto:ryan@creativenatives.com.au)

11. 

    21 Jul 2026

    How Neurodivergent Directors can influence traditional Boards with Sara Harrup

    About this episode: Sara Harrup is a Brisbane-based governance professional, executive coach, and the founder of Unique Mind Co. She is regarded as a pioneer in neuroinclusive governance design: the intentional design of board environments, systems, processes, and relational styles to anticipate a wide range of neurocognitive profiles, so that people do not need to mask, disclose their neurodivergence, or request adjustments in order to participate fully. Sara is Deputy Chair of the Australian Charities and Not-for-Profits Commission, Chair of Jabiru, and Non-Executive Director at HCI. She coaches neurodivergent executives and board directors, and provides training and consulting on neuroaffirming leadership to organisations seeking to move beyond awareness into genuine structural change. Sara is Autistic and ADHD, and a person with disability, and speaks openly about what it means to govern well when your body and mind work differently, and what boards lose when they are designed with narrow assumptions about how Director’s bodies and minds are built. Key Takeaways: The role that Boards play in governance Why diverse perspectives and system thinkers should be part of every Board. What boards lose when they're designed with narrow assumptions about how directors' bodies and minds are built. Internal ableism Neuroinclusion Tips for Boards AI risks. Connect to Sara: linkedin.com/in/sara-harrup (https://www.linkedin.com/in/sara-harrup/) uniquemindco.com (https://www.linkedin.com/safety/go/?url=www%2Euniquemindco%2Ecom&urlhash=YWVT&mt=4iqSaMtEyIOeGQsGcc-uzJEKHNLAbHelBgcRi59XDdNDsh2PeXZIvXs3KplUOas4thutGVV1on_y7rAovjZ9uk-Y&isSdui=true) sara@uniquemindco.com (mailto:sara@uniquemindco.com)

12. 

    7 Jul 2026

    The Sensory Specialist with Sarah James

    About this episode: Sarah James is the founder of The Sensory Specialist, a Melbourne-based business providing families, schools and organisations with sensory tools. A former psychology teacher and mum of two, Sarah works with councils, schools and major venues to design sensory-friendly spaces. In this episode we explore accessibility, neurodiversity and the practical work of making everyday public environments neuroinclusive. Key Takeaways Why sensory inclusive public spaces are important for children and adults How sensory aids can assist in the classroom How the NDIS shaped the landscape.

13. 

    30 Jun 2026

    Neuroinclusive Co-working: Inside the WonderPlay Studio with Madeleine Lobsey

    Description: Madeleine Jane Lobsey spent decades in the arts and global leadership development before being diagnosed as autistic and ADHD at 48 and realising she’d been building neuroinclusive spaces long before she had the language for it. Named as a Top 50 Australians Over 50 in 2025, she founded Wondiverse, a neuroinclusion social enterprise. She also runs WonderPlay Studio, a neuroinclusive co-working and event space in the heart of Sydney. In this episode we explore neuroinclusive design and building spaces that suit all neurotypes. Key Takeaways Why neuroinclusive co-working spaces are needed Workspace zoning for different work styles The importance of predictability, choice and community Neurodivergent thinking, systems and problem solving Why we should play when we work Using a later in life diagnosis of Autism and ADHD to channel creativity. Link to information about the WonderPlay Studio: WonderPlay Studio: A Space for Co-Working Creativity (https://wondiverse.com.au/retro-home/wonderplay-studio-co-working/)

14. 

    23 Jun 2026

    Customer Aggression in Retail & Psychosocial Safety with Professor Gary Mortimer

    About this episode: Gary Mortimer is a Professor of Retail Marketing and Consumer Behaviour at Queensland University of Technology. He has over 25 years of retail industry experience, and is currently the Chair and Independent Director of Services and Creative Skills Australia. In this episode we tackle an alarming trend in retail - customer aggression - and its impact on psychosocial safety for retail workers. Gary shares the latest data on what is and isn’t working, and how we can create safer workplaces in a sector that employs around 10% of Australians. Key Takeaways: The definition of Customer aggression Highlights from SacSA’s Customer Aggression Report What’s working and what’s not The impact on Retail employee inclusion and psychosocial hazards in retail environments. Links: Research can be found here: SaCSA Releases New Report Highlighting Impact of Customer Aggression on Retail Workforce and Businesses - Service and Creative Skills Australia (SaCSA) (https://sacsa.org.au/news/sacsa-releases-new-report-highlighting-impact-of-customer-aggression-on-retail-workforce-and-businesses)

15. 

    16 Jun 2026

    Inclusive Beauty: Designing Accessible Beauty Products with Storm Menzies

    About this episode: Meet Storm Menzies, founder of ByStorm Beauty, a brand on a mission to make beauty accessible, fun and inclusive. Drawing on her own lived experience, Storm designs accessible beauty tools, helping people feel confident and seen. Storm is passionate about inclusivity and creates beauty products that celebrate diversity and remove barriers in self-care. ByStorm Beauty is breaking traditional beauty norms with product designed to be unapologetically empowering. Key Takeaways why accessible beauty matters how inclusive product design is reshaping the beauty industry Storm’s journey from beauty customer to retail supplier and what it takes to get an accessible product into the Australia beauty category.

16. 

    10 Jun 2026

    Disability Representation in the Media - with Lisa Cox OAM & Paul Nunnari PSM PLY

    About this episode On this episode of Open Wired, host Natalie Phillips-Mason talks with award winning disability advocates Lisa Cox OAM and Paul Nunnari PSM PLY about disability representation in the media. They explore why representation matters, how organisations can get it right, and what businesses lose when disability inclusion is ignored. From Breaking Bad to Autistic Barbie, this episode is full of insights and candid commentary. Takeaways Why representation matters The brands doing it well How to avoid tokenism The disability dollar and commercial impacts of exclusion How to make shopping more inclusive and accessible. Sources Home - Media Diversity Australia (https://www.mediadiversityaustralia.org/) Home | Inclusively Made (https://www.inclusivelymade.com/) Connect With Natalie Interested in being a guest, have a topic you'd like me to explore or just want to connect? I'd love to hear from you. Visit my website - https://inc-change.com/ (https://inc-change.com/) Follow on Instagram @inclusivechange Follow me on Linked In (www.linkedin.com/in/natphillipsmason) Email me Natalie@inc-change.com. (https://mailto:Natalie@inc-change.com)

17. 

    28 May 2026

    Trailer: Open Wired with Natalie Phillips-Mason

    Open Wired is a series hosted by Natalie Phillips-Mason, Founder of Inclusive Change. Natalie has candid conversations with people solving inclusion challenges. Sometimes unpolished but always authentic, the series explores inclusion within workplaces, boardrooms, retail and physical spaces. Guests include award-winning leaders from private sector and Not for Profit, entrepreneurs, executives and retailers. Whether you lead, practise, or are simply navigating this work yourself, you'll come away with practical insights and ideas worth borrowing. Subscribe so you don’t miss a conversation. Connect with Natalie Website (https://inc-change.com/) ⁠LinkedIn ⁠ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/natphillipsmason/) Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/inclusivechange/)

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