Beyond The Tube: Real Stories, Real Advice

I was so excited to sit down with Leticia, the CEO and co-founder of the incredible app, Understanding Zoe. Leticia and I talked all about how this app came to be, starting from a very personal place with her daughter, Zoe, who is autistic and has ADHD.
Leticia shared her own journey of discovery, and how the challenges she faced as a parent sparked the idea for an AI-powered "second brain" for families raising neurodivergent children. We explored how Understanding Zoe helps connect a child's entire care village (therapists, teachers, support workers) by providing quick, relevant information, all while maintaining a strengths-based approach.
A huge focus of our chat was data safety. Leticia, with her background in big data and AI, has made sure Understanding Zoe is ISO 27001 certified (that's bank-level security!), with all data anonymised, encrypted, and stored safely in Australia, completely offline from the internet. This means your family's sensitive information is incredibly secure, which I know is a big concern for many of us.
You can find out more about Understanding Zoe and connect with Leticia here:
Website: understandingzoe.com
Instagram: @understandingzoe
Research on Invisible Load: understandingzoe.com/research

We’re building a community here - one story at a time - and I’m so glad you’re along for the ride. Please feel free to reach out!
Instagram: @beyond.the.tube.podcast
Email: [email protected]

This is a Podvan Media production.

In this episode of Beyond the Tube, Fi interviews Kate Broderick, an occupational and speech therapist, who shares her insights on sensory processing in tubie kids.

They discuss the importance of understanding sensory processing challenges, the role of the nervous system, and how medical trauma can impact a child's sensory experiences. Kate emphasises the need for advocacy, effective communication, and the role of therapists in supporting children with feeding challenges.

The conversation also highlights practical strategies for parents to help their children navigate sensory difficulties and create a safe environment for them.

You can follow Kate at Spot Therapy Hub on Instagram. You'll also find the details of her **FREE** workshops advertised on the Spot Therapy Hub Insta page.

For online resources please head to:
http://spottherapyhub.com.au

We’re building a community here – one story at a time – and I’m so glad you’re along for the ride.
Please feel free to reach out!
Instagram: @beyond.the.tube.podcast
Email: [email protected]

This is a Podvan Media production.

In this episode of Beyond the Tube, Fi Rodrick speaks with Alex De Young and Nicki Walsh from Frankie's Clubhouse, an initiative designed by Queensland Health, to support children and families navigating healthcare challenges. They discuss the origins of Frankie's Clubhouse, the importance of addressing emotional needs post-hospitalisation, and the role of personal experiences in shaping the resources provided. The conversation highlights the impact of trauma on children and families, the significance of storytelling and play in healing, and the need for advocacy and awareness in child healthcare. They also introduce Frankie, a comfort toy designed to help children process their experiences, and discuss the future goals of Frankie's Clubhouse, including expanding accessibility and resources for families.This episode is proudly sponsored by Tubie Love, now part of the Independently You family. Offering practical, beautifully designed products, these are a must for families navigating tubie life.
Use code BTT20 to receive 20% off any Tubie Love product or the full range of products on Independently You. Valid until 15th March 2026.
Visit independentlyyou.com.au

This is a Podvan Media production

In this episode, I'm joined by Maddie (the CEO of Little Dreamers Australia) to discuss the vital role of young carers in our community. Maddie shares her personal story of caring for her brother and mother (a journey that began when she was just six years old) and how it inspired her to create a national support network. I wanted to explore how we can better identify the two or three young carers who sit in every Australian classroom without formal recognition.
We discuss the various programs Little Dreamers offers to help kids manage their mental health and education, and Maddie outlines the four main pillars of support they provide to ensure these young people can thrive.
It was a truly enlightening conversation that helped me realise how much work is still needed to support these hidden heroes!

This episode is proudly sponsored by Tubie Love, now part of the Independently You family. Offering practical, beautifully designed products, these are a must for families navigating tubie life.
Use code BTT20 to receive 20% off any Tubie Love product or the full range of products on Independently You.
Valid until 15th March 2026.
Visit independentlyyou.com.au

We’re building a community here – one story at a time – and I’m so glad you’re along for the ride. Please feel free to reach out!
Instagram: @beyond.the.tube.podcast Email: [email protected]
This is a Podvan Media production.

It's the final episode for 2025 and Eliana joins me to wrap up the year with some incredible stories and practical advice. We discuss the reality of establishing feeding schedules (flexible or strict), managing big emotions in the morning, and transitioning from NG tubes to G-tubes.
Eliana shares an amazing story about Luke’s button popping out mid-flight and how preparation saved the day. She also opens up about the shift from feeling overwhelmed to eventually enjoying normal family days at the beach.
This chat also covers the importance of advocating for your family when medical plans don't fit your lifestyle. Eliana offers advice on navigating the festive season, reminding tubie parents to focus on the fun rather than the food!

We’re building a community here – one story at a time – and I’m so glad you’re along for the ride. Please feel free to reach out!
Instagram: @beyond.the.tube.podcast 
Email: [email protected]

This is a Podvan Media production.