Two Sandbach women are launching a new community radio show exploring neurodiversity after both being diagnosed with ADHD later in life.

Sheila Manzano from Wheelock and Diane Davis from Ettiley Heath will host 'Wired Differently – The Neurodiverse Hour' on The Cat Radio, bringing open conversations, lived experience and community voices to the Crewe and Nantwich airwaves.

Inspired by the BAFTA-winning film starring Robert Aramayo, I Swear, the duo are creating a space to explore what it really means to think, feel and experience the world differently—moving beyond labels to focus on real stories, challenges and strengths. 

The weekly one-hour show, 'Wired Differently – The Neurodiverse Hour' will air every Thursday at 10am and launches tomorrow (2 April) - to coincide with World Autism Awareness Day.

After receiving their diagnoses later in life, the pair wanted to create a platform where people who think and experience the world differently could share stories, advice and support.

They said: "It is estimated that around one in seven people in the UK are neurodivergent*, including individuals with ADHD, autism, dyslexia and other neurological differences.

"The new programme aims to contribute to the growing national conversation about understanding and supporting neurodiverse individuals."

While neither host claims to be experts, the programme will regularly feature specialists, advocates and individuals with lived experience, sharing insight, advice and personal stories.

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The show will also highlight lesser-discussed neurological conditions, including Tourette syndrome, which has recently received renewed public attention following the BAFTA-winning short film I Swear, starring Robert Aramayo, based on the life of Tourette's campaigner John Davidson.

Each episode will feature a mix of regular segments including:

• Interviews with experts and community voices
• NeuroNews – updates and stories from across the neurodiversity world
• Podcast Picks highlighting neurodiversity-related podcasts
• Book Recommendations exploring neurodivergence and lived experience
• ND Chatter, an open conversation about navigating everyday life while "wired differently"

The show is designed to be honest, accessible and relatable, offering both information and a sense of connection for listeners.

 Sheila Manzano said: "Being diagnosed later in life can be both liberating and overwhelming. For years many of us feel like we don't quite fit the mould. This show is about creating a space where people can share experiences, laugh about the chaos and realise they're not alone."

 Diane Davis added: "When I tell someone I have ADHD they often respond that 'yes, but we've all got a bit of something' or 'everyone's a little bit ADHD'.

"For those who are neurodivergent, it's not about just a couple of traits, it's about your whole being. This show intends to educate both those who are ND and those who aren't."

The programme is also inviting listeners to be part of the conversation by sharing their own questions, experiences and perspectives on neurodiversity.

Listeners are encouraged to submit questions, comments or topics they would like the hosts to explore, helping shape future episodes and bringing more community voices into the discussion.

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The show joins the schedule at The Cat Radio, the local FM community radio station run entirely by volunteers, dedicated to celebrating local voices, music and community stories.

 Pete Shuttleworth, Volunteer Coordinator from The Cat Radio, said: "Community radio exists to reflect the communities we serve, and Wired Differently brings an important conversation to our airwaves.

"Sheila and Diane bring honesty, humour and real lived experience, and we're proud to give neurodiverse voices a platform."

The Cat Radio broadcasts locally on FM and online, providing community-led programming created entirely by volunteers. Anyone keen to volunteer at the station can head over to www.thecat.radio to learn more and sign up.

Listeners can tune in via 107.9FM or online at www.thecat.radio

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