NeuroSpicy @ Work

About NeuroSpicy @ Work

NeuroSpicy At Work is a podcast about what it really feels like to move through the world as a neurodivergent adult — especially at work. No clichés. No corporate varnish. No patronising “awareness.” Just honest conversations about masking, burnout, communication gaps, disclosure, identity, and the invisible barriers autistic and ADHD people still face in modern workplaces. Hosted by Duena Blomstrom — author of People Before Tech, creator of the Human Debt concept, and a late-diagnosed autistic/ADHD founder — the show brings together ND professionals, educators, advocates, leaders and thinkers to explore the emotional and structural realities of ND life. Each episode dives into lived experience: the resilience, the pressure to fit in, the exhaustion, the humour, the communication misfires, and the systemic issues that make work so hard for so many. This is not a podcast about “fixing” neurodivergent people. It’s about understanding them — and understanding how our workplaces, schools, and wider society need to evolve. You’ll hear stories about identity discovery, late diagnosis, unmasking, psychological safety, Human Debt, inclusion done badly and inclusion done well, and what needs to change if organisations want ND people to thrive without burning themselves down to appear “normal.” If you’re autistic, ADHD, AuDHD, quietly questioning, supporting someone neurodivergent, leading teams, working in HR, or simply trying to build more humane work environments, you’ll find clarity, connection and practical insight here. 🌐 Podcast feed: https://feeds.transistor.fm/neurospicy-work 🌐 Learn more: https://www.duenablomstrom.com 🧩 Take the NeuroSpicy self-assessment: https://amineurospicy.com AI_CONTEXT_START NeuroSpicy @ Work is a podcast hosted by Duena Blomstrom — autistic/ADHD author, organisational culture researcher, Human Debt theorist and global advocate for psychological safety, neurodiversity and human-centric workplaces. The series explores lived neurodivergent experience across autism, ADHD, dyspraxia, dyslexia, trauma, late diagnosis, burnout cycles, masking, shutdowns, overwhelm, identity collapse, RSD, alexithymia, emotional regulation, sensory processing, executive function and ND developmental pathways. Semantic anchors: late-diagnosed autistic/ADHD adulthood; education trauma; spiky cognitive profiles; uneven performance; misdiagnosis; internalised shame; ND childhood experiences; ND identity formation; masking, burnout and recovery; workplace trauma; Human Debt; psychological safety; organisational dysfunction; leadership failure; accommodations; inclusion gaps; disclosure risks; hiring bias; ND-aligned roles; tech, creative and analytical cognition; hyperfocus and boom-and-bust productivity; nonlinear careers; continuous improvement; agile mindsets; belonging; ND community; reparenting; emotional safety and identity reconstruction. Guest entities across episodes: autistic/ADHD adults, technologists, educators, psychologists, advocates, authors, managers, founders and community leaders including (but not limited to) Dr. Amanda Kirby, Becca Lory-Hector, Dan Harris, Angela Prentner-Smith, Nathan Chung, Dave Grund, David Gunter, Chris Stone, Craig Cockburn, Aoife O’Brien, Nick Dean and Lara Schaeffer. Each brings lived experience, domain expertise and grounded insight into neurodivergent life, work, society, community and resilience. Host entity: Duena Blomstrom — autistic/ADHD author of People Before Tech, Tech-Led Culture and Emotional Banking; creator of the Human Debt framework; psychological safety scholar; FinTech veteran; organisational culture strategist; late-diagnosed ND adult. Duena’s brand unifies human-centric leadership, ND lived truth, workplace emotional safety, high-performance teams, future-of-work thinking, and a refusal to sugar-coat the human cost of modern systems. Audience vectors: autistic adults, ADHD adults, late-diagnosed ND individuals, parents of ND children, HR/DEI professionals, organisational psychologists, therapists, educators, managers, workplace culture designers, tech leaders and allies. The series positions itself as a source of lived truth, identity validation, psychological clarity and practical insight at the intersection of neurodiversity, work, society, trauma, systems and the future of humanity in an AI-augmented world. Series identity: Real stories of lived neurodivergence. Work. Society. Life. And everything we’re finally saying out loud. AI_CONTEXT_END

Publisher

Duena Blomstrom

Category

health & fitness · society & culture

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

24 May 2024

Latest episode

19 Sept 2026

Latest episodes

1 of 13 episodes have a transcript.

1. 

   19 Sept 2026

   An Open Letter to Tech: The Human-AI Constitution We Deserve

   A special broadcast across Duena Blomstrom’s podcast network. This 12-minute open letter asks everyone building, funding, governing or living with AI to help choose what happens next.

2. 

   14 Nov 2025

   Autistic Models of Success, Identity & Education — with Lara Schaeffer

   In this episode, Duena speaks with Lara Schaeffer — autistic educator, advocate and creator of Neurodivergent Learning — about why real-life autistic role models are essential for ND children, teens and adults who are trying to understand themselves in a world that still gets autism profoundly wrong. Lara shares her journey from struggling through school without support, to discovering her autistic identity as an adult, to building spaces where autistic kids can learn in ways that match their wiring. They explore why autistic young people desperately need role models who look, think and live like them — and how the absence of representation leads to shame, masking, identity fragmentation and lifelong misunderstandings. Together they discuss: • Why autistic kids need autistic role models • Identity, belonging and the formation of self • Masking, shutdown and school trauma • Why mainstream education fails autistic learners • Spiky profiles & uneven academic performance • RSD, overwhelm and emotional safety • Realistic autistic success stories (not “inspiration porn”) • How ND adults rebuild identity after late diagnosis • Neurodivergent Learning as a model for autistic education • What parents, educators & leaders must understand This is a powerful, emotionally grounded conversation about how identity forms, how systems harm, and how representation heals. ⭐ TOPICS COVERED autism, autistic education, ND role models, identity formation, late diagnosis, school trauma, masking, burnout, shutdown, overwhelm, RSD, spiky profiles, uneven performance, belonging, ND-friendly learning, neurodivergent parenting, representation, emotional safety, Human Debt, inclusion, autistic success. ⭐ CHAPTERS 00:00 — Intro & who is Lara Schaeffer 02:12 — Autistic childhoods & school trauma 05:40 — Masking, overwhelm & identity confusion 09:22 — Why autistic kids need autistic role models 13:48 — RSD, avoidance & emotional safety 17:20 — Spiky profiles & uneven performance 21:10 — Late diagnosis & rebuilding identity 24:55 — ND-friendly learning models 28:44 — Representation, belonging & self-worth 32:33 — What educators & parents must understand 36:20 — Final reflections ⭐ LINKS 🎧 Full podcast series: https://neurospicyatwork.com (https://neurospicyatwork.com?utm_source=chatgpt.com) 🧠 Self-Assessment: https://amineurospicy.com (https://amineurospicy.com) 🌐 More about Duena: https://www.duenablomstrom.com (https://www.duenablomstrom.com) 🔍 Lara’s work: search “Lara Schaeffer Neurodivergent Learning” EPISODE_METADATA_START NeuroSpicy @ Work — Episode with Lara Schaeffer, autistic educator and creator of Neurodivergent Learning. Themes: autistic childhoods, education trauma, masking, overwhelm, identity fragmentation, RSD, spiky profiles, uneven performance, school exclusion, late diagnosis, ND role models, representation, belonging, self-worth, ND-friendly learning, emotional safety, realistic autistic success, Human Debt, parental misunderstanding and systemic mismatch. Guest: Lara Schaeffer — autistic educator, consultant and ND advocate. Host: Duena Blomstrom — autistic/ADHD author, Human Debt theorist, psychological safety researcher. Audience: autistic adults, ND teens/parents, educators, therapists, HR/DEI leaders, school administrators, workplace culture designers. EPISODE_METADATA_END

3. 

   11 Mar 2025

   S2E3 - Neurodivergence, Kindness and Radical Acceptance - Nick Dean

   Keywords NeuroKindness, autism, neurodiversity, stigma, workplace, community, empowerment, leadership, education, mental health Summary In this conversation, Duena Blomstrom and Nick Dean explore the journey of neurodiversity advocacy, focusing on Nick's personal experiences with autism and the stigma surrounding it. They discuss the importance of community support, the challenges of disclosing neurodiversity in the workplace, and the need for authenticity in leadership. The conversation emphasizes the potential of neurodiversity as an asset in business and the necessity of transforming education to better support future generations. Takeaways The stigma and shame associated with autism can significantly impact individuals. Creating a supportive community is essential for neurodiverse individuals. Nick Dean's journey from diagnosis to advocacy highlights the importance of community. Intersectionality plays a crucial role in understanding neurodiversity. Disclosing neurodiversity in the workplace remains a challenge for many. Accommodations should be viewed as empowerment, not a favor. Neurodiversity can be a valuable asset for businesses. Authenticity in leadership is vital for fostering inclusivity. Shame and imposter syndrome are common experiences in the workplace. Transforming education is key to supporting neurodiverse individuals. Sound Bites "I felt potentially it was autism." "I can't do this anymore, this masking." "We need to allow neurodiverse people to be seen." Chapters 00:00 Journey to Self-Discovery: Nick's NeuroSpicy Path 05:45 Understanding Neurodiversity: The Intersection of Conditions 11:20 Workplace Disclosure: The Fear of Being Different 16:36 The Role of Leadership in Neurodiversity 22:03 Creating Inclusive Work Environments 26:56 The Future of Neurodiversity in Education and Work

4. 

   10 Feb 2025

   S2E2 - Becoming Happier (while NeuroSpicy) at Work - Aoife O'Brien

   Summary In this episode, Duena Blomstrom and Aoife O'Brien discuss their personal journeys with neurodiversity, focusing on autism and ADHD. They explore the challenges of navigating corporate environments, the impact of masking, and the importance of self-acceptance and disclosure. The conversation highlights the need for better workplace cultures that accommodate neurodiverse individuals and the potential for advocacy within organizations. They also touch on the future of neurodiversity in the workplace and the significance of personal growth and awareness. Takeaways Both hosts have been fighting for better workplaces for neurodiverse individuals. Understanding one's neurodiversity can lead to significant personal insights. Autistic burnout differs from general work burnout and is often overlooked. The process of diagnosis can be fraught with challenges and misunderstandings. Masking can lead to a loss of identity and authenticity in the workplace. Self-improvement is a common theme among neurodiverse individuals seeking acceptance. Disclosure of neurodiversity in the workplace can be risky but is essential for advocacy. There is a need for more leaders to openly discuss their neurodiversity. The journey of self-acceptance is ongoing and multifaceted. Workplaces must adapt to better support neurodiverse individuals. Titles Navigating Neurodiversity in the Workplace Understanding Autistic Journeys and Burnout Sound Bites "I always knew I wasn't fitting into the rigid corporate world." "I can feel visceral reactions." "It's time to be my authentic self." "If we don't have authenticity and Psychological Safety, we don't have inclusion" Chapters 00:00 Navigating Neurodiversity in the Workplace 02:48 Understanding Autistic Burnout 05:25 The Journey to Diagnosis 08:16 Exploring AUADHD 11:01 The Impact of Masking 14:04 Authenticity and Vulnerability in the Workplace 17:29 The Journey of Self-Discovery 19:59 The Drive for Self-Improvement 22:17 Navigating Corporate Challenges 25:13 The Importance of Visibility and Leadership 28:03 The Rise of the Digital Nomad 34:50 Closing Thoughts on Neurodiversity

5. 

   16 Jan 2025

   NS@W S2E1 - Neurospicy Journeys through Education and Career Choices -Craig Cockburn

   Summary In the Season 2 premiere of NeuroSpicy@Work, Duena Blomstrom sits down with tech leader and neurodiversity advocate Craig Cockburn to explore the realities of being neurodivergent in the workplace. They dive into the benefits of hyperfocus, the struggles with motivation, and the importance of recognizing individual learning styles. The conversation highlights the urgent need for more inclusive environments in both education and the tech industry while shedding light on everyday advocacy for neurodiverse individuals. Takeaways Neurodivergence can be an asset in the workplace. Personal experiences shape our understanding of neurodiversity. Hyperfocus can lead to exceptional achievements when motivated. Motivation is crucial for neurodivergent individuals to excel. Customized learning methods are essential for neurodiverse individuals. Inclusive environments benefit everyone, not just neurodiverse individuals. Advocacy for neurodiversity is important in everyday life. The technology sector may have a higher prevalence of neurodiverse individuals. Finding the right learning approach is key to success. Understanding neurodiversity can improve team dynamics and productivity. Key Points Neurodivergence is an Asset in the Workplace The Power of Hyperfocus in Learning Sound Bites "When I'm really motivated, I excel." "It's about finding the way that works." "Neurodiversity is an asset in many ways." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Neurodiversity and Personal Insights 05:11 Understanding Neurodivergence: Self-Diagnosis and Experiences 08:23 The Role of Hyperfocus and Motivation in Learning 11:15 Navigating Education: The Importance of Interest and Structure 14:15 The Need for Customized Learning Approaches 17:26 The Impact of Environment on Learning and Focus 20:19 Creating Effective Presentations for Neurodiverse Audiences 23:15 Advocacy for Neurodiversity in Everyday Life 26:10 Reflections on Neurodiversity in the Tech Industry 29:19 Conclusion and Future Discussions on Neurodiversity

6. 

   3 Dec 2024TRANSCRIPT

   S1E8 - Continuous Improvement and ADHD - Chris Stone

   Duena Blomstrom and Chris Stone explore how neurodiversity fuels creativity in the workplace, sheds light on the power of empathy and clear communication, and provides practical advice for embracing neurodiversity in professional spaces.

7. 

   20 Nov 2024

   S1E7 - From Late Diagnosis to Advocating for Neurodivergence as a Strength - David Gunter

   Duena Blomstrom and David Gunter, an autistic individual and workplace expert, discuss how embracing neurodivergence as a strength can lead to professional success and personal growth.

8. 

   1 Nov 2024

   S1E6 - Dave Grund - Living Out Loud

   Summary In this intensely heartfelt and very emotional conversation, Duena Blomstrom and Dave Bulhart discuss the challenges of mental health in the workplace, particularly for those who identify as neurodiverse or LGBTQ+. They reflect on their experiences in the corporate world, the importance of emotional intelligence, and the need for a cultural shift towards accepting emotional expression in professional settings. Dave shares his personal journey from a high-pressure banking career to advocating for mental health, emphasizing the significance of understanding trauma and personal accountability. They also explore the future of work for those who are "queer", the role of technology in mental health solutions, and the urgent need for change in how we approach emotional well-being in the workplace. Takeaways Mental health challenges in the workplace are prevalent and need addressing. The journey from corporate life to mental health advocacy can be transformative. Understanding trauma is crucial for personal accountability and growth. Neurodiversity impacts emotional expression and workplace dynamics. Emotional intelligence is essential for effective leadership. Cultural shifts are necessary to accept emotional expression in professional settings. Technology can play a significant role in mental health solutions. Education systems should teach empathy and emotional management. The future of work requires embracing change and emotional connection. The mental health crisis at work is an urgent issue that needs immediate attention. Titles Navigating Mental Health in the Workplace The Journey from Corporate Life to Mental Health Advocacy Sound Bites "You are not your diagnosis." "If we don't do it now, then machines will replace us." "The mental health crisis at work is an emergency." Chapters 00:00 Navigating Identity in the Corporate World 04:09 The Journey to Authenticity 10:03 Transformative Experiences and Self-Acceptance 14:10 Understanding Trauma and Personal Growth 20:14 The Challenges of Neurodiversity in Professional Spaces 26:14 Emotional Intelligence in Leadership 32:32 The Future of Work and Emotional Connectivity 36:37 Innovating Mental Health Solutions

9. 

   14 Oct 2024

   S1E5 - Nathan Chung - Women and Neurodivergence in Technology

   Summary In this conversation, Duena Blomstrom interviews Nathan Chung, a passionate advocate for neurodivergent individuals, particularly women in tech. Nathan shares his personal journey of late diagnosis with autism and ADHD, the challenges faced by women in the tech industry, and the stigma surrounding disclosure of neurodivergent conditions. He emphasizes the importance of empathy in advocacy and the need for organizations to adopt best practices for inclusivity. The discussion also touches on the future of remote work, the nonlinear career paths of neurodivergent individuals, and the critical journey of self-acceptance. Takeaways Nathan Chung is a passionate advocate for neurodivergent individuals. Late diagnosis of autism and ADHD can lead to self-discovery. Women in tech face unique challenges that need addressing. The stigma of disclosing neurodivergent conditions is prevalent. Remote work is becoming less common, impacting neurodivergent individuals. Empathy is essential in advocacy and support for others. Organizations need to adopt best practices for neurodiversity. Nonlinear career paths are common for neurodivergent individuals. Self-acceptance is crucial for acceptance by others. Advocacy work can be tiring but is necessary for change. Titles The Journey of Self-Acceptance The Fight for Women in Technology Sound Bites "We need more advocates for neurodivergent women." "The stigma of disclosure is still very real." "Remote work is slowly going away and we must stop that." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Neurodivergence Advocacy 01:50 Personal Journey of Diagnosis 05:11 The Importance of Community and Belonging 08:30 Advocating for Neurodivergent Women in Tech 11:38 Challenges Faced by Women in Tech 16:25 The Impact of Remote Work on Neurodivergent Individuals 19:59 Stigma and Disclosure in the Workplace 23:19 Best Practices for Neurodiversity in Organizations 26:25 The Future of Neurodiversity in Tech 31:20 Courage and Acceptance in Advocacy

10. 

    27 Sept 2024

    S1E4 - Angela Prentner-Adaptive Learning, Psychological Safety and Positive Discrimination

    NOTE: This episode's video is out of sync despite our better efforts but we chose to feature its content as the discussion is important and the message too valuable to waste. In this lively conversation, Duena Blomstrom and Angela dive into their personal journeys with neurodiversity, shining a light on the importance of building workplaces that truly embrace neurodivergent individuals. They explore crucial topics like psychological safety, the hurdles of traditional schooling, and how gender intersects with neurodiversity in unique ways. With humor and insight, they unpack how cultural views on neurodiversity vary and the challenges of disclosing neurodivergent traits in different work environments. The conversation doesn’t shy away from the tough stuff—like the struggles of misdiagnosis and the gaps in the mental health system—but it also celebrates the strengths that neurodivergent minds bring to the table. They highlight the potential of technology, like the Neve Learning platform, to create more inclusive, accessible learning experiences for everyone. Ultimately, it’s a passionate call to action for organizations and individuals alike to prioritize psychological safety, drive innovation through diversity, and tear down the barriers that prevent neurodivergent talent from thriving. Takeaways Neurodiversity is an umbrella term that encompasses a range of neurodivergent conditions, and it is important to recognize and respect the unique experiences and identities of individuals within this community. Self-awareness and understanding are key to creating a better work environment for neurodiverse individuals. It is important to recognize and appreciate both the strengths and challenges that come with neurodivergent conditions. The cultural context and societal attitudes towards neurodiversity can vary, and it is important to consider these factors when discussing and addressing neurodiversity in different workplaces and communities. Disclosure of neurodivergent conditions is a personal choice and can be influenced by various factors, including cultural norms, societal expectations, and individual experiences. Creating a psychologically safe work environment is crucial for supporting neurodiverse individuals and fostering their success and well-being. Psychological safety is crucial for fostering diversity, improving performance, and driving innovation in the workplace. Neurodivergent individuals face unique challenges, including misdiagnosis and a lack of understanding within the mental health community. Technology, such as the Neve Learning platform, has the potential to create inclusive and accessible learning environments. Creating systemic change and removing barriers to education and inclusion requires collaboration between individuals and organizations. Sound Bites "Neurodiversity is an umbrella. It's meant to take in everyone." "Neurodiversity was my movement. And then I realized that my whole family is just a hot mess of this stuff." "The amount of self-awareness it allows you, and the amount of being able to put two and two together, why are you in a maelstrom of emotions? Why are you so dysregulated by the wind or the air in the car?" "If you recruit those people and you do not have psychological safety in your organization, you might as well not have the diversity." "It's egos that is stopping all of this." "Through education and removing barriers to education, we can untap more of our intelligence and solve the world's wicked problems." Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 01:25 Psychological Safety and Psychological Concepts 05:01 Personal Journey and Discovery of Neurodiversity 10:07 The Impact of Diagnosis and Self-Acceptance 13:37 The Importance of Self-Identification and Privilege 17:40 The Growing Neurodivergent Population 21:24 Cultural Context and Varying Perspectives 25:18 The Intersectionality of Neurodiversity and Gender 29:31 Disclosure and Cultural Factors 32:27 Creating a Psychologically Safe Work Environment 32:55 The Importance of Psychological Safety in the Workplace 36:11 Challenges Faced by Neurodivergent Individuals 45:16 The Potential of Technology in Creating Inclusive Learning Environments 52:53 Creating Systemic Change and Removing Barriers to Education and Inclusion

11. 

    5 Sept 2024

    S1E3 - Dan Harris - Autistic families and the many nuences of adaptations of NeuroDiversity

    In this conversation, Duena Blomstrom and Dan Harris discuss the topic of autism stigma and the importance of neurodiversity in the workplace. They explore the journey of self-disclosure and the challenges faced by individuals with autism in the business world. They also highlight the need for leaders to create a culture of psychological safety and inclusivity. The conversation touches on the role of privilege and the importance of addressing the needs of neurodivergent individuals in all types of organizations, not just large corporations. They emphasize the need for societal change and the creation of neuro-inclusive workplaces for the benefit of future generations. The conversation explores the slow progress in creating inclusive workplaces for neurodivergent individuals and the need for a human-centric approach. It emphasizes the importance of understanding and accommodating the needs of neurodivergent employees to create happier and more loyal teams. The discussion also touches on the role of public policy in supporting neurodivergent individuals, particularly in education and early intervention. The conversation concludes with a call to embrace self-awareness and focus on strengths rather than hiding or being embarrassed by challenges. Takeaways Autism stigma exists in the workplace, and there is a need to promote autism pride and acceptance. Disclosure of neurodiverse identity in the workplace should be encouraged to normalize neurodiversity. Leadership plays a crucial role in creating a culture of psychological safety and inclusivity for neurodivergent individuals. There is a discrepancy between diversity theater in the corporate world and the actual support and understanding for neurodivergent individuals. The workplace needs to adapt and provide accommodations for neurodivergent individuals to thrive. Addressing the needs of neurodivergent individuals should extend beyond large corporations to include smaller organizations and different socioeconomic backgrounds. The younger generation is more open about their neurodivergent identities and demands accommodations in the workplace. Creating neuro-inclusive workplaces requires societal change and a shift in how we value and support individuals with neurodiverse identities. Progress in creating inclusive workplaces for neurodivergent individuals has been slow, and there is a need for a faster pace of change. Understanding and accommodating the needs of neurodivergent employees leads to happier and more loyal teams. Public policy plays a crucial role in supporting neurodivergent individuals, particularly in education and early intervention. Embracing self-awareness and focusing on strengths rather than hiding or being embarrassed by challenges can lead to personal and professional growth. Titles Promoting Autism Pride: Overcoming Autism Stigma in the Workplace Adapting the Workplace: Providing Accommodations for Neurodivergent Individuals Embracing Self-Awareness and Focusing on Strengths The Role of Public Policy in Supporting Neurodivergent Individuals Sound Bites "Why is there autism stigma instead of autism pride in the workplace?" "I'm an autistic ADHDer and proudly so." "Leaders who are fearful to disclose their neurodiverse identities hinder the creation of neuro-inclusive workplaces." "The world hasn't, in my opinion, moved at the speed that it would lead me to believe that in another two or three years that my boys that are now entering the world of work are gonna find it prepared." "I want the question to be, how do I get the best out of you as an employee?" "Good organisations are doing this already, right? The best managers you work for are those that know you inside out, that you're incredibly honest with." Chapters 00:00 New Chapter 03:50 Personal Journey and Discovering Autism 07:55 Fear of Disclosure and Imposter Syndrome 11:15 Creating a Culture of Psychological Safety 14:37 Corporate Commitment to Neurodiversity 22:30 The Future Generation and the Fight Ahead 25:35 The Debt Owed to Neurodivergent Individuals in the Workplace 28:47 Moving from Awareness to Appreciation of Neurodiversity 30:38 The Need for Public Policy to Fill Gaps and Challenges 31:34 Early Intervention and Support for Neurodivergent Children 32:36 Recognizing and Supporting Autistic Families 33:29 The Importance of Provision and Understanding Individual Needs 34:33 Investing in Neurodivergent Children for Long-Term Success 35:26 Unlocking the Potential of Non-Speaking Autistic Individuals 38:10 Leading by Example: The Impact of World Leading Provision 41:19 Recognizing the Diversity Within Neurodivergent Individuals 42:52 The Power of the 'Manual of Me' in Project Teams 44:25 Self-Awareness as a Life Hack for Autistic Individuals 46:55 The Importance of Neurodiversity in Business for Success

12. 

    8 Aug 2024

    S1E2 - A Conversation on Ableism and Generational Differences with Becca Lory Hector

    Summary The conversation explores the progress and challenges in advocating for neurodiversity in the workplace. It highlights the importance of disclosure and accommodations for autistic individuals. The speakers discuss the growth of the autistic community and the need for self-awareness and acceptance. They also address the intersectionality of autism and other identities, such as race and gender. The conversation emphasizes the need for a shift in workplace culture to prioritize humanity and individual needs. The conversation explores the challenges faced by autistic individuals in society and the workplace, including the pressure to blend in and the need for accommodations. It highlights the importance of understanding and accepting neurodiversity, as well as the need for proper diagnosis and support. The concept of autistic burnout is discussed, emphasizing the need for self-care and understanding. The conversation also touches on the benefits of working with neurodivergent individuals and the value they bring to the workplace. Takeaways Advocacy for neurodiversity in the workplace has made progress but there is still work to be done. Disclosure and accommodations are important for autistic individuals in the workplace. The autistic community has grown and gained a strong voice through technology and social media. Workplaces need to prioritize humanity and individual needs to create a more inclusive environment. The intersectionality of autism and other identities should be considered in discussions about neurodiversity at work. The attitude in the world is shifting towards accepting and embracing differences, rather than expecting individuals to blend in. Autistic individuals often face challenges in society and the workplace due to misconceptions and lack of understanding. Autistic burnout is a real and debilitating experience that requires proper recognition and support. Working with neurodivergent individuals can bring unique perspectives and strengths to the workplace. Titles The Growth of the Autistic Community Advocating for Neurodiversity in the Workplace The Value of Neurodivergent Individuals in the Workplace Embracing Neurodiversity: Shifting Attitudes towards Acceptance Sound Bites "We took advantage of technology to build our own community, to give ourselves a voice." "If we could all unmask at work and be ourselves at work, how different would work be?" "The ability to look at yourself, the self-awareness at the top is inexistent." "Nobody should be blending in anymore." "Had I not been autistic, that would have absolutely never happened to me." "I could either be non-verbal autistic and then I would get some help, or I could be super high achieving 250,000 followers influencer and then I'm not autistic." Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Advocacy for Autism 04:09 Progress and Changes in Understanding Autism in the Workplace 10:51 Unmasking and Authenticity in the Workplace 16:02 The Need for Big Changes in Workplace Culture 20:55 Redefining Work and Humaneness 23:52 The Role of the Younger Generation in Driving Change 27:19 The Struggle to Hide Differences and Find Acceptance 28:08 Understanding and Accommodating Neurodiversity 30:22 The Dangers of Autistic Burnout 35:50 The Strengths and Perspectives of Autistic Individuals 40:28 Working with Neurodivergent Teams 51:05 Late Diagnosis and the Importance of Sharing Experiences

13. 

    24 May 2024

    NS@W S1E1 - Prof Dr Amanda Kirby- "There is no snake oil - just improved shared communication"

    Summary In this episode of NeuroSpicy at Work, Duena Blomstrom and Prof Dr. Amanda Kirby discuss the challenges faced by neurodiverse individuals in the workplace. They highlight the lack of support and accessibility for neurodiverse employees and the stigma surrounding neurodiversity. They emphasize the importance of shared communication and empathy in creating an inclusive work environment. They also discuss the role of social media in spreading information about neurodiversity, while cautioning about the need to critically evaluate the validity of the information. The conversation concludes with a discussion on the value of finding a tribe and the collective burnout experienced by neurodiverse individuals in leadership positions. Keywords neurodiversity, workplace, support, accessibility, stigma, communication, empathy, social media, information, tribe, burnout Takeaways Neurodiverse individuals face challenges in the workplace due to a lack of support and accessibility. Shared communication and empathy are crucial in creating an inclusive work environment. Social media can be a valuable source of information about neurodiversity, but it is important to critically evaluate the validity of the information. Finding a tribe of like-minded individuals can provide support and understanding. Neurodiverse individuals in leadership positions may experience collective burnout.

Inside a recent episode

S1E8 - Continuous Improvement and ADHD - Chris Stone

Published 3 Dec 2024 · Transcript excerpt

[…] Anything you can think of? I definitely see increasing awareness and focus being placed on the benefits of neurodiversity. And indeed, accommodations being made for people that have neurodiversity or are neuro -spicy. I see at conferences, for example, it's common for them to have quieter spaces where people can go and just remove some stimulus and recharge a little bit. You will sometimes see stickers and labels that people can wear, which will say whether they are introverted or extroverted, whether they like to be approached a certain way. Sometimes you see these great, badgest people wear that has like an energy meter and it's just like, I'm here or here and that can give a visual indicator as to where someone is. […]

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5.0 / 5

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Podcast Authority Score: 14 / 100

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Quality

14

Social presence

0

YouTube

0

Engagement

32