In this episode, I sit down with the incredible Willa - mum of two wonderful boys, one hearing and one profoundly Deaf, and current president of APODC (Auckland Parents of Deaf Children). Willa shares her family’s journey through a late diagnosis at 18 months, the whirlwind of emotions that came with it, and how she’s always trusted her gut when it comes to advocating for her son. This chat is packed with raw honesty, mum wisdom, and the kind of grounded leadership that only comes from lived experience. Whether you're at the start of your journey or somewhere in the thick of it, Willa’s story is a powerful reminder that you don’t need to have all the answers - just the courage to ask the right questions and keep showing up.
Clare x
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Links to Raising Bilinguals courses:
THE RB CLUB exclusive online parent community: Join now!
For more on Clare and the Raising Bilinguals journey:
Visit her website, Instagram; Facebook and LinkedIn pages
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YOUTUBE VODCAST with Auslan Interpretations
For those who prefer visual content, check out our vodcast version on YouTube, complete with captions, a full transcript and Auslan interpretation courtesy of Expression Australia x
In this episode, I’m diving into the 3 biggest assumptions I made about what bilingual success should look like when I first had my Deaf son. Spoiler: I thought I had it all figured out as a Teacher of the Deaf… but parenting cracked that wide open. I share how my definition of bilingualism has completely evolved, and why I now believe it’s not just possible - but accessible - for every family raising a deaf or hard of hearing child. This one’s for anyone who’s ever questioned if they’re “doing it right!"
Clare x
PS I also mention my upcoming bilingual masterclass which is going to be such a powerful first step for families wanting to build a bilingual approach with their kids (Oh and PS it's actually landing early next week, not this week!)
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👉 Want to be first to nab my masterclass next week? Make sure you're on my mailing list and broadcast channel (Instagram) to be the first to get the link! Cannot wait to share this one with you x
👉 The Bilingual Blueprint 30 Day Program is coming! Be the first to jump in and get a sneaky early-bird offer when it launches this June: Join the Waitlist
👉 Looking for 1:1 support? I've just launched my new 1:1 Parent Compass Calls - a 60 minute intensive session - to support families in tackling everything from advocacy and NDIS support, to school preparation and language development. You also receive a tailored action plan to ensure you meet the goals set for your deaf child. Book your call in today!
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Follow me on socials:
Visit our website, Instagram; Facebook and LinkedIn pages
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YOUTUBE VODCAST with Auslan Interpretations
For those who prefer visual content, check out our vodcast version on YouTube, complete with captions, a full transcript and Auslan interpretation courtesy of Expression Australia x
**NOTE: I am taking a 2 week holiday with my little fam bam in Japan, so The POD PLACE will be having a month's break. We will be back in June for a parent episode to kick of the mid year!** In this latest podcast episode, I unpack the journey of signed language development in deaf and hard of hearing kids — breaking it into four natural phases most families experience. I also help you tune in to how often communication is missed in the everyday rush and how we can better notice, catch, and respond to our little ones’ early communication attempts.
Clare x
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👉 Did someone say free stuff?: My FREE 'School Advocacy Checklist' is available now (Grab it before your next big meeting!)
👉 The Bilingual Blueprint 30 Day Program is coming! Be the first to jump in and get a sneaky early-bird offer when it launches this June: Join the Waitlist
👉 Looking for 1:1 support? Come join us in our beautiful RB CLUB - a thriving online parent community for hearing parents on the bilingual journey - get ready to feel real support and see REAL change in your life - and your child's! The RB CLUB is the only tribe of it's kind and is home to parents of deaf kids all over the world. Learn more here.
Follow me on socials:
Visit our website, Instagram; Facebook and LinkedIn pages
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YOUTUBE VODCAST with Auslan Interpretations
For those who prefer visual content, check out our vodcast version on YouTube, complete with captions, a full transcript and Auslan interpretation courtesy of Expression Australia x
In this episode I sit down with the wonderful Nicole - a powerhouse parent of two gorgeous boys - Tennyson and Maverick. From finding out Mav was Deaf to then going down a path of multiple diagnoses, including Cytomegalovirus (CMV). Nicole talks candidly about the journey and provides some wonderful nuggets of wisdom! Let's dive in. Clare x
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👉 Did someone say free stuff?: My '5 Reading Habits to Avoid with your Deaf/Hard of Hearing Child' eBook is available now (Grab it here!)
👉 The Bilingual Blueprint 30 Day Program is coming! Be the first to jump in and get a sneaky early-bird offer when it launches this June: Join the Waitlist
👉 Looking for 1:1 support? Come join us in our beautiful RB CLUB - a thriving online parent community for hearing parents on the bilingual journey - get ready to feel real support and see REAL change in your life - and your child's! The RB CLUB is the only tribe of it's kind and is home to parents of deaf kids all over the world. Learn more here.
Follow me on socials:
Visit our website, Instagram; Facebook and LinkedIn pages
-----------------------
YOUTUBE VODCAST with Auslan Interpretations
For those who prefer visual content, check out our vodcast version on YouTube, complete with captions, a full transcript and Auslan interpretation courtesy of Expression Australia x
In this episode, I unpack simple, yet powerful ways we as parents can navigate the constant stream of comments, questions, advice (and sometimes criticisms) on the journey - with equal parts grit and grace.
Let's dive in!
Clare x
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👉 Did someone say free stuff?: My '5 Reading Habits to Avoid with your Deaf/Hard of Hearing Child' eBook is available now (Grab it here!)
👉 The Bilingual Blueprint 30 Day Program is coming! Be the first to jump in and get a sneaky early-bird offer when it launches this June: Join the Waitlist
👉 Looking for 1:1 support? Come join us in our beautiful RB CLUB - a thriving online parent community for hearing parents on the bilingual journey - get ready to feel real support and see REAL change in your life - and your child's! The RB CLUB is the only tribe of it's kind and is home to parents of deaf kids all over the world. Learn more here.
Follow me on socials:
Visit our website, Instagram; Facebook and LinkedIn pages
-----------------------
YOUTUBE VODCAST with Auslan Interpretations
For those who prefer visual content, check out our vodcast version on YouTube, complete with captions, a full transcript and Auslan interpretation courtesy of Expression Australia x
In this episode I sit down with our FIRST Deaf parent on the POD PLACE (but definitely not our last!) - Kym! She shares her incredible lived experience growing up as a Deaf child in a rural area and how her journey has supported her role as a mother raising two Deaf children. This is not one to miss!
Loved this interview! Clare x
Links:
My RB CLUB exclusive online parent community is opening it's doors again in April - find out all the info and Join the Waitlist here!
For more on me and the Raising Bilinguals journey:
Visit our website, Instagram; Facebook and LinkedIn pages
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YOUTUBE VODCAST with Auslan Interpretations
For those who prefer visual content, check out our vodcast version on YouTube, complete with captions, a full transcript and Auslan interpretation courtesy of Expression Australia x
Another solo episode from me this week, where I unpack the problematic ‘Deaf nod’ with our deaf and hard of hearing kids and how it can actually contribute to language deprivation and missed language opportunities. It’s all about tuning into our little deaf ones and ensuring they not only have access to language BUT they understand and can use the language they’re receiving in a meaningful way. This one is a goodie!
Clare x
Links:
Grab my FREE Advocacy Starter Kit for parents on the advocacy journey - it's a great starting point to reduce the overwhelm and gain more clarity!
My RB CLUB exclusive online parent community is opening it's doors again in April: Join the Waitlist !
For more on me and the Raising Bilinguals journey:
Visit our website, Instagram; Facebook and LinkedIn pages
-----------------------
YOUTUBE VODCAST with Auslan Interpretations
For those who prefer visual content, check out our vodcast version on YouTube, complete with captions, a full transcript and Auslan interpretation courtesy of Expression Australia x
This episode is a bit of a transparent one from me and dives into the huge shifts I have made in my professional practice as a Teacher of the Deaf, since becoming the parent of my own deaf child. It includes a very real confession that I struggle now to admit, given what I know, but I think the message here is so important - particularly for professionals working in this space with families. Hopefully a few take-aways for both parents and professionals with this one.
Clare x
Links:
THE RB CLUB exclusive online parent membership community: Join the Waitlist for 2025!
ONE WEEK ONLY: Get 40% OFF my 'Building Our Village' crash course for family & friends - sale running now! Use VILLAGE40 at checkout for the Unlimited Package x
For more on Clare and the Raising Bilinguals journey:
Visit her website, Instagram; Facebook and LinkedIn pages
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YOUTUBE VODCAST with Auslan Interpretations
For those who prefer visual content, check out our vodcast version on YouTube, complete with captions, a full transcript and Auslan interpretation courtesy of Expression Australia x
In this episode I sit down with Phoebe, the wonderful mother of 2 kids - Haines and Vallis (deaf). They live in the stunning and remote coastal town of Exmouth up in northern Western Australia, which means Phoebe had to do all she could to build the community her daughter needed using all the resources she possibly could. There was also a pretty profound moment along the way where she needed to trust her mama's gut and do what she needed for her daughter. Phoebe is the epitome of a 'half glass full' kinda gal and I can't wait for you to hear her story!
Clare x
Connect with Phoebe and her family over at @phoebeburnham
Links to Raising Bilinguals courses:
THE RB CLUB exclusive online parent membership community: Join the Waitlist for 2025!
For more on Clare and the Raising Bilinguals journey:
Visit her website, Instagram; Facebook and LinkedIn pages
-----------------------
YOUTUBE VODCAST with Auslan Interpretations
For those who prefer visual content, check out our vodcast version on YouTube, complete with captions, a full transcript and Auslan interpretation courtesy of Expression Australia x
In this episode, I provide some key reminders around how we approach language development with our little deaf kiddos and why Frank’s first sign was such a huge moment for us— It’s a real deep dive into how we value language and connection as parents of deaf kids.
Clare x
For more info on our RB CLUB exclusive online parent community 👉 Early-Bird offer ends 27th January!
For more on Clare and the Raising Bilinguals initiatives:
Visit her website, Instagram; Facebook and LinkedIn pages
-----------------------
YOUTUBE VODCAST with Auslan Interpretations
For those who prefer visual content, check out our vodcast version on YouTube, complete with captions, a full transcript and Auslan interpretation courtesy of Expression Australia x
This one’s powerful folks.
I sit down with Sarah, the mother of two beautiful kids - her eldest, Kipp, is deaf. But the journey to discovering Kipp's deafness isn't one you've heard on here before. Kipp's story is a very real reminder of the devastation that is language deprivation and just how critical our parent voice is in this space. Full disclosure: I cried editing this one, so get those tissues ready—you’ve been warned!
Clare x
Connect with Sarah and her family over at @freemans_fam
Links to Raising Bilinguals courses:
THE RB CLUB exclusive online parent community: Join the Waitlist for 2025 launch!
For more on Clare and the Raising Bilinguals journey:
Visit her website, Instagram; Facebook and LinkedIn pages
-----------------------
YOUTUBE VODCAST with Auslan Interpretations
For those who prefer visual content, check out our vodcast version on YouTube, complete with captions, a full transcript and Auslan interpretation courtesy of Expression Australia x
In this episode, I had the pleasure of chatting with Nicole - the incredible SUPER-Mum of 3 gorgeous kids; her middle child and only daughter, Hallie, is deaf. But that is only the beginning when it comes to Nicole’s story and the absolute rollercoaster the past 4 years have been. I won’t share too much more here, as I think this story is best told by Nicole herself.
Clare x
Links to Raising Bilinguals courses:
The Raising Bilinguals Bootcamp: Join the Waitlist for our 2025 intake!
THE RB CLUB exclusive online parent community: Join the Waitlist for 2025 launch!
For more on Clare and the Raising Bilinguals journey:
Visit her website, Instagram; Facebook and LinkedIn pages
-----------------------
YOUTUBE VODCAST with Auslan Interpretations
For those who prefer visual content, check out our vodcast version on YouTube, complete with captions, a full transcript and Auslan interpretation courtesy of Expression Australia x
In this episode, I share a recent development in my deaf son’s journey that has left me feeling incredibly proud of him. I also dive into the importance of building self-advocacy skills in our kids as early as possible and why these are essential for fostering independence and confidence in our deaf children as they navigate this wild, chaotic world. Enjoy!
Clare x
Links to Raising Bilinguals courses:
The Raising Bilinguals Bootcamp: Join the Waitlist for our 2025 intake!
THE RB CLUB exclusive online parent community: Join the Waitlist for 2025 launch!
For more on Clare and the Raising Bilinguals journey:
Visit her website, Instagram; Facebook and LinkedIn pages
-----------------------
YOUTUBE VODCAST with Auslan Interpretations
For those who prefer visual content, check out our vodcast version on YouTube, complete with captions, a full transcript and Auslan interpretation courtesy of Expression Australia x
In this episode, I talk with Rachel - a proud mother of a 2.5 year old profoundly deaf child, Tiger. Rachel talks about that wild first year and the hectic diagnostic testing journey that brought them to the cause of Tiger's deafness - ANSD. Rachel also discusses her challenging experiencing with the cochlear mapping process and the complications and chaos that can be the public healthcare system.
Clare x
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Links to Raising Bilinguals courses:
The Raising Bilinguals Bootcamp: Join the Waitlist for our 2025 intake!
Building Our Village on-demand course for family & friends
THE RB CLUB exclusive online parent community: Join the Waitlist for 2025 launch!
For more on Clare and the Raising Bilinguals journey:
Visit her website, Instagram; Facebook and LinkedIn pages
-----------------------
YOUTUBE VODCAST with Auslan Interpretations
For those who prefer visual content, check out our vodcast version on YouTube, complete with captions, a full transcript and Auslan interpretation courtesy of Expression Australia x
In this solo episode, I explore the crucial difference between Membership and Visitorship when it relates to the learning environment for deaf and hard of hearing students. I share my insights and anecdotes on what true inclusion looks like—where our kids are not just present but are equal members with full access to opportunities, relationships, and discussions. I discuss the dangers of the visitorship model, where our deaf kids are merely bodies in the room, and emphasise the importance of fostering an environment where every deaf child has a genuine seat at the table.
Let's dive in! Clare x
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Links to Raising Bilinguals courses:
The Raising Bilinguals Bootcamp: Join the Waitlist for our 2025 intake!
Building Our Village on-demand course for family & friends
THE RB CLUB exclusive online parent community: Join the Waitlist for 2025 launch!
For more on Clare and the Raising Bilinguals journey:
Visit her website, Instagram; Facebook and LinkedIn pages
-----------------------
YOUTUBE VODCAST with Auslan Interpretations
For those who prefer visual content, check out our vodcast version on YouTube, complete with captions, a full transcript and Auslan interpretation courtesy of Expression Australia x
I sit down with Shanie, a wonderful mother of 3 boys - her youngest Knox, is profoundly deaf due to CMV (Cytomegalovirus). Shanie talks about the emotional rollercoaster that was that first year of Knox's life, waiting to see if and when he'd meet those initial milestones. She also highlights the reality of the cochlear implantation journey that is so common for many deaf and hard of hearing children and how they chose to navigate it as a family. So much goodness in this one!
If you want to follow Shanie and Knox's journey, make sure to join them over on Instagram at @hearknox_ for all the updates!
Clare x
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Links to Raising Bilinguals courses:
The Raising Bilinguals Bootcamp: Join the Waitlist for our 2025 intake!
Building Our Village on-demand course for family & friends
THE RB CLUB exclusive online parent community: Join the Waitlist for 2025 launch!
For more on Clare and the Raising Bilinguals journey:
Visit her website, Instagram; Facebook and LinkedIn pages
-----------------------
YOUTUBE VODCAST with Auslan Interpretations
For those who prefer visual content, check out our vodcast version on YouTube, complete with captions, a full transcript and Auslan interpretation courtesy of Expression Australia x
In this solo episode, I unpack 3 simple ways to reduce the mental load on the journey of raising deaf and hard of hearing children and how we as parents can control the information we allow in and how we choose to use it. A few great takeaways in this one!
Clare x
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Links to courses:
The Raising Bilinguals Bootcamp: Join the Waitlist for our 2025 intake!
Building Our Village on-demand course for family & friends
THE RB CLUB exclusive online parent community: Join the Waitlist for 2025 launch!
For more on Clare and the Raising Bilinguals journey:
Visit her website, Instagram; Facebook and LinkedIn pages
-----------------------
YOUTUBE VODCAST:
For those who prefer visual content, check out the vodcast version on YouTube, complete with captions and a full transcript: https://youtu.be/aFklNBDFJgw
IMPORTANT: AUSLAN INTERPRETATIONS
Although these are not available yet, we are hard at work organising for Auslan interpretations to be included in all episodes to ensure full access for the Deaf Community. We will keep you updated on when these are available! We appreciate your patience while we navigate this.
In this episode, I sit down with Keely, a passionate advocate and parent of Remi, who is 2.5 years old and deaf. Keely shares her overwhelming journey of discovering Remi's deafness, the challenges she faced and the empowering lessons she learned along the way. Through her own advocacy journey, Keely offers invaluable nuggets of wisdom for parents and caregivers on the same path! Tune in now.
Clare x
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Links from episode:
The Raising Bilinguals Bootcamp (as mentioned by Keely). Join the Waitlist for our 2025 intake!
For more on Clare and the Raising Bilinguals journey:
Visit her website, Instagram; Facebook and LinkedIn pages
-----------------------
YOUTUBE VODCAST:
For those who prefer visual content, check out the vodcast version on YouTube, complete with captions and a full transcript: https://youtu.be/aFklNBDFJgw
IMPORTANT: AUSLAN INTERPRETATIONS
Although these are not available yet, we are hard at work organising for Auslan interpretations to be included in all episodes to ensure full access for the Deaf Community. We will keep you updated on when these are available! We appreciate your patience while we navigate this.
Join Clare as she unpacks the three most common advocacy models for parents of deaf children. Discover why passive and reactive approaches often fall short, and learn about the game-changing proactive & collaborative model that empowers parents and can bring about real results!
Clare shares her personal journey from people-pleaser to strong parent advocate, offering invaluable insights and practical strategies for other families looking to make the same transformation. You'll gain a deep understanding of how to effectively communicate your child's needs, navigate educational and healthcare systems, and create positive change in various environments.
Enjoy!!
Don't miss out on the Raising Bilinguals Bootcamp!
This intensive program will equip you with essential tools and techniques to advocate for and foster a signed bilingual approach in your home. Sign-ups close on November 3rd, so secure your spot today and join a community of parents committed to empowering their children with the gift of language --> https://www.raisingbilingualsdhh.com/bootcamp
For more on Clare and the Raising Bilinguals journey:
Visit her website, Instagram; Facebook and LinkedIn pages
-----------------------
YOUTUBE VODCAST:
For those who prefer visual content, check out the vodcast version on YouTube, complete with captions and a full transcript: https://youtu.be/aFklNBDFJgw
IMPORTANT: AUSLAN INTERPRETATIONS
Although these are not available yet, we are hard at work organising for Auslan interpretations to be included in all episodes to ensure full access for the Deaf Community. We will keep you updated on when these are available! We appreciate your patience while we navigate this.
Join me for this incredibly profound episode two of THE POD PLACE, where I sit down with Melissa Howard, a mother from Western Australia, who shares her extraordinary journey raising her deaf son, Huey. Mel takes us through the ups and downs of parenting a child with multiple diagnoses, including cytomegalovirus (CMV) and opens up about the rollercoaster (there's really no other word for it!) of hospital visits and never-ending advocacy that has become a far too familiar part of their lives.
As a triage nurse, Mel brings a unique perspective to her family’s experiences, blending professional knowledge with the raw emotions of a mother navigating the very system she works in.
For more on Mel's journey and her mission to support families navigating the healthcare system, follow her along here: @solaceinthestorm
For more on Clare and the Raising Bilinguals journey:
Visit her website, Instagram; Facebook and LinkedIn pages
-----------------------
YOUTUBE VODCAST:
For those who prefer visual content, check out the vodcast version on YouTube, complete with captions and a full transcript: https://youtu.be/aFklNBDFJgw
IMPORTANT: AUSLAN INTERPRETATIONS
Although these are not available yet, we are hard at work organising for Auslan interpretations to be included in all episodes to ensure full access for the Deaf Community. We will keep you updated on when these are available! We appreciate your patience while we navigate this.