Two Cheshire women have launched a new community radio show for Autism Awareness Month (APRIL 2026), exploring neurodiversity after both being diagnosed with ADHD later in life. Sheila Manzano and Diane Davis will host Wired Differently – The Neurodiverse Hour on The Cat Radio, bringing open conversations, lived experience and community voices to the Cheshire and FM airwaves. Inspired by the BAFTA-winning film starring Robert Aramayo, I Swear, the duo is 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 will air every Thursday at 10am.
Diagnosed later in life, two women decided to share their stories
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.
It is estimated that around one in seven people in the UK are neurodivergent, including individuals with ADHD, autism, dyslexia and other neurological profiles. The new programme aims to contribute to the growing national conversation about understanding and supporting neurodiverse individuals.
The new radio program will support and raise awareness of neurodiversity
While neither host claims to be an expert, the programme will regularly feature specialists, advocates and individuals with lived experience, sharing insight, advice and personal stories. 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”
Honest, accessible and relatable
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 feel like they 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 with: ‘yes, but we’ve all got a bit of something’ or ‘everyone’s a little bit ADHD’. But 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 hour-long show is also inviting listeners to be part of the conversation by asking questions, as well as sharing 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.
It will be a regular show on The Cat Radio
The show joins the schedule at The Cat Radio, the Cheshire 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.
Wired Differently – The Neurodiverse Hour launches Thursday 2 April at 10am and will broadcast weekly.
Listeners can tune in via FM or online at www.thecat.radio
KEY FACTS
Show: Wired Differently – The Neurodiverse Hour
Hosts: Sheila Manzano and Diane Davis
Launch date: Thursday 2 April, 2026
Time: 10:00am – 11:00am
Frequency: Weekly
Station: The Cat Radio
Where to listen: 107.9FM and online at www.thecat.radio
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