Chaos of appointments and breaking free from the system: Nicole Bateman chats with Leona Burton

01/17/24 • 18 min

In this dynamic episode of "Conversations with a SEND Mum," host Nicole Bateman engages in a conversation with Leona Burton, a powerhouse Mum of 6 and owner of Mums in Business International. Leona shares her unique journey as a young mum of neurodivergent children, discussing the whirlwind of appointments, the importance of trusting parental instincts in advocacy, and juggling mum life while building a business driven by passion.

Episode Highlights:

Being a Young Mum: Leona reflects on her experience as a young mum, she shares insights into the unique challenges and joys that come with the territory.
Chaos of Appointments: The conversation delves into the chaotic reality of managing numerous medical and educational appointments for neurodivergent children. Leona offers practical tips and strategies for navigating the demanding schedule while maintaining a sense of balance.
Trusting Parental Instincts: Both Nicole and Leona underscore the importance of trusting parental instincts when advocating for a child's needs within the system. They share anecdotes and advice on embracing one's intuition in the face of challenges.
Juggling Mum Life and Business: Leona's journey as a business owner is explored, highlighting the delicate balance of building and managing Mums in Business International while being a devoted mum. The discussion touches on the passion that fuels her business endeavours and the resilience required in navigating both worlds.

You will find additional resources in our Conversations with a SEND Mum Pod Patreon community at patreon.com/ConversationswithaSENDMumPod . Join the community for only £3.50 and get access to bonus content from our guests and sponsors The Super Sensory Squad, exclusive episodes and a monthly zoom chat.

Follow Nicole on www.instagram.com/conversationswithasendmum for exclusive peeks to weekly episodes. Please do send feedback and rate this podcast to help it reach those who would benefit.
Check out our Season 3 sponsor Rachel's 3 R's Subscription Box: Dedicated to helping SEND mums feel calmer and more relaxed by providing a box of products and online support for self-care. Follow on www.instagram.com/rachelsthreerssubscriptionbox and use the code NICOLE10 for 10% off your first order at https://rachel-s-three-r-s.subbly.me/
Check out our Season 1 and 2 sponsor The Super Sensory Squad who support kids in understanding the eight sensory systems and emotional regulation using their penguin squad at: www.thesupersensorysquad.com and www.instagram.com/thesupersensorysquad

Episode Highlights:

Being a Young Mum: Leona reflects on her experience as a young mum, she shares insights into the unique challenges and joys that come with the territory.
Chaos of Appointments: The conversation delves into the chaotic reality of managing numerous medical and educational appointments for neurodivergent children. Leona offers practical tips and strategies for navigating the demanding schedule while maintaining a sense of balance.
Trusting Parental Instincts: Both Nicole and Leona underscore the importance of trusting parental instincts when advocating for a child's needs within the system. They share anecdotes and advice on embracing one's intuition in the face of challenges.
Juggling Mum Life and Business: Leona's journey as a business owner is explored, highlighting the delicate balance of building and managing Mums in Business International while being a devoted mum. The discussion touches on the passion that fuels her business endeavours and the resilience required in navigating both worlds.

Previous Episode

Introduction and Epilepsy: Nicole Bateman

*Trigger Warning: Talking about seizures* In the first ever episode of "Conversations with a SEND Mum," host Nicole Bateman embarks on a heartfelt journey, sharing her personal motivations for launching this podcast and delving into her experiences as a SEND Mum after her son's first seizure. She sheds light on the misconceptions surrounding epilepsy and the impact it has on her mental health, navigating a life on high alert.

Episode Highlights:

The Why Behind the Podcast: Nicole passionately discusses the driving force behind starting "Conversations with a SEND Mum," aiming to create a supportive space for fellow SEND parents. The podcast's foundation lies in fostering a sense of community, ensuring parents don't feel isolated in their journey.
Personal Journey: Nicole shares her emotional journey following her son's first seizure, providing a candid insight into the shock, uncertainties, and challenges she faced in understanding and managing epilepsy within her family.
Misconceptions About Epilepsy: She dismantles common misconceptions surrounding epilepsy, shedding light on the realities of living with a child who experiences seizures and the impact it has on daily life.
Impact on Mental Health: Nicole opens up about the toll that living in a constant state of vigilance and risk assessment had on her mental health.

Check out resources in our Conversations with a SEND Mum Pod Patreon community at patreon.com/ConversationswithaSENDMumPod . Join the community for only £3.50 and get access to bonus content from our guests and sponsors The Super Sensory Squad, exclusive episodes and a monthly zoom chat.

Next Episode

Signing, APD and PTSD: Nicole Bateman chats with Shelley Ensor

In this empowering episode of "Conversations with a SEND Mum," host Nicole Bateman engages in a heartfelt conversation with Shelley Ensor, a passionate SEND Mum and the owner of Little Signers Club. Shelley shares her journey as a parent advocating for her child with Auditory Processing Disorder (APD). The conversation delves into the world of signing and the fight for the rights and needs of children with additional needs.

Episode Highlights:

Auditory Processing Disorder (APD): Shelley opens up about her experience as a SEND Mum navigating the complexities of Auditory Processing Disorder. She shares insights into the challenges faced and the importance of raising awareness about this often misunderstood condition.
Signing as a Communication Tool: The conversation explores the significance of signing as a communication tool for children with additional needs. Shelley discusses how signing has become an invaluable means of expression and connection for her child.
The Fight to Advocate: Both Nicole and Shelley delve into the challenges and victories that come with advocating for a child's needs within the educational and healthcare systems. They discuss the resilience required in the face of hurdles and the importance of building a supportive network.

You can access a code for a free signing picture book from Little Signers Club on the 'Conversations with a SEND Mum' Patreon Community. You will find additional resources in our Conversations with a SEND Mum Pod Patreon community at patreon.com/ConversationswithaSENDMumPod . Join the community for only £3.50 and get access to bonus content from our guests and sponsors The Super Sensory Squad, exclusive episodes and a monthly zoom chat.