Neurodiversity with Theo Smith Theo Smith

Today we interview Jeremy Davis. Jeremy shares his journey of self-discovery and how he found his passion for storytelling through writing and directing.

We discuss the importance of self-diagnosis and the validity of personal experiences. Jeremy also talks about the challenges of navigating ableism and toxic engagement in the disability advocacy space.

He shares his future plans of creating films that address ableism and promote representation.

Finally, we discuss the importance of self-care and avoiding burnout in the advocacy work. The conversation explores the impact of behavior on online communities and the creation of hostile environments.

It concludes with a discussion on the importance of being kind and valuing individual experiences.


Self-diagnosis is a valid and important part of the diagnostic journey for many individuals.
Navigating ableism and toxic engagement in the disability advocacy space can be challenging, but it's important to stay true to your own perspective and continue the conversation.
Filmmaking and storytelling can be powerful tools for promoting representation and challenging ableism in society.
Taking care of your mental health and avoiding burnout is crucial when engaging in advocacy work. Online behavior can have a significant impact on communities, and individuals may not be fully aware of the consequences of their actions.
In the disability and inclusion space, there is a risk of creating hostile and negative environments due to the strong emotions and experiences involved.
It is important to be mindful of the impact our behavior has on others and strive to create positive and inclusive spaces.
Being kind and understanding the journeys and experiences of others is crucial in fostering a supportive and empathetic community.

00:00 Introduction and Background

03:12 Young Jeremy and Early Years

08:00 The Role of Writing and Filmmaking

11:39 Self-Diagnosis and Validity

15:00 Navigating Ableism and Advocacy

19:04 Future Plans and Filmmaking

37:21 Dealing with Burnout and Toxic Engagement

52:31 Impact of Behavior on Online Communities

53:00 Creating Hostile Environments

53:43 Final Thoughts and Where to Find Jeremy

55:05 Be Kind and Value Individual Experiences

Today we have Matt Hancock join us, who's been advocating for neurodiversity and early support in education, highlighting challenges faced by individuals who are dyslexic.

He promotes universal screening and teacher training to address high exclusion rates among children with neurodivergent traits/conditions.

The importance of understanding and embracing neurodiversity, early identification, and support in schools is emphasized by the speakers. The Accessible Learning Foundation (ALF) aims to drive policy changes and provide support in schools and prisons.


[00:04] Episode introduction on neurodiversity and inclusivity, featuring guest Matt Hancock, who shares his experience with dyslexia.
[01:04] Matt discusses the realization of his dyslexia and the strengths he discovered through his condition.
[04:42] Discussion on existing barriers in recognizing and supporting neurodiverse children, with reference to public skepticism as seen in a Times article.
[06:07] Insight into Matt’s involvement with health initiatives and the ongoing challenges in dyslexia recognition in educational systems.
[08:52] Matt highlights his advocacy for early identification and support through his charity, the Accessible Learning Foundation.
[11:07] Importance of tailored education approaches to accommodate neurodivergent students, especially those excluded from standard educational tracks.
[13:10] Call for a shift in societal attitudes towards neurodiverse conditions like ADHD and autism.
[17:01] The need for improved communication and understanding among parents, teachers, and medical professionals regarding neurodiversity.
[20:50] Discussion on the state's role in supporting neurodiverse children and the impact of understanding individual brain functions on policy making.
[24:11] Matt expresses gratitude for bipartisan support of his legislative efforts aimed at improving neurodiversity support within the education system.


[30:52] Emphasis on legislation to encompass comprehensive support for all societal members.
[31:39] Examination of gender differences in ADHD and autism presentation and future plans for advocacy beyond politics.
[33:43] Continued efforts in policy campaigning and direct school support through the Accessible Learning Foundation.
[35:09] Goals for the Accessible Learning Foundation: universal screening, policy implementation within schools, and support in both educational and prison systems.
[36:45] Encouragement for community involvement in supporting neurodiversity causes, including advocacy and financial support.



This episode is supercharged by Dynamis Group

https://dynamisgroup.com/

You can buy Amanda and Theo's book 'Neurodiversity At Work here:

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Neurodiversity-Work-Performance-Productivity-Neurodiverse/dp/1398600245

Love the intro music... it's from a past guest High Contrast: Music is Everything

#NeurodiversityAtWork #Neurodiversity #ADHD

In this episode, Theo Smith interviews Alice, a researcher at Bocconi University, about her experience with neurodiversity.

Alice shares her journey from childhood to academia, highlighting her strengths in brain power and the challenges of control mania.

She discusses the impact of migraines and the realization of her neurodivergence, leading to an autism diagnosis.

Alice also explores the difficulties of getting diagnosed in Italy and the unique challenges faced by neurodivergent individuals in academia.

She emphasizes the need for multidisciplinary research in neurodiversity and shares her current projects at Bocconi University.

In this conversation, Alice discusses her research and experiences in academia. She shares insights into the challenges and rewards of conducting research in the field of gender studies.

Alice also highlights the importance of intersectionality and the need for more research in underrepresented areas.

She concludes by providing her contact information for those interested in connecting with her.



Takeaways


Neurodivergent individuals often excel in academia due to their unique strengths and passion for research.
The academic environment can be challenging for neurodivergent individuals, with blunt feedback and a competitive publishing process.
There is a need for multidisciplinary research in neurodiversity to gain a holistic understanding of its impact.
Getting diagnosed with neurodivergent conditions can be difficult in some countries, highlighting the need for improved access to assessments.
Academia should strive for inclusivity and understanding to support the diverse needs of neurodivergent researchers.

Chapters

00:00Introduction to Neurodiversity and Guest Introduction

01:06Guest's Background and Work at Bocconi University

02:36Early Years and Strengths in Brain Power

05:38Control Mania and the Cost of Overworking

07:07Migraines and the Need for Breaks

08:48Realization of Neurodivergence and Autism Diagnosis

10:51Challenges of Getting Diagnosed in Italy

14:28The Impact of Neurodiversity in Academia

24:49Transition from PhD to Research Role in Academia

30:22Challenges in Academia: Blunt Feedback and Publishing Process

38:49The Need for Multidisciplinary Research in Neurodiversity

50:15Current Work and Projects at Bocconi University

52:35Conclusion and Contact Information



This episode is supercharged by Dynamis Group

https://dynamisgroup.com/

You can buy Amanda and Theo's book 'Neurodiversity At Work here:

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Neurodiversity-Work-Performance-Productivity-Neurodiverse/dp/1398600245

Love the intro music... it's from a past guest High Contrast: Music is Everything

#NeurodiversityAtWork #Neurodiversity #ADHD

Today we're joined by David Renton, a security compliance project manager at Genesys. In our conversation, we explore David's journey through the lens of ADHD and dyslexia, from his early education to carving out a career that plays to his strengths.

David shares the pivotal moments that shaped his understanding of neurodiversity, emphasising the power of open conversations and the significance of finding one's balance.

He champions inclusive workplaces and the role of mentorship in fostering growth and understanding in both personal and professional realms.

Dive into this enlightening and heartfelt discussion with us as we uncover the impact of embracing neurodiversity at work and beyond.



Chapters:

[00:03] Welcome to the podcast "Neurodiversity at Work" hosted by Theo Smith. Today's guest is David Renton, a security compliance project manager at Genesys, originally from Dublin, Ireland.



[02:28] David shares his journey with ADHD and dyslexia, starting from his schooling years.



[07:00] David discusses his career transitions and the challenges he faced in finding a job that aligned with his strengths and interests.



[09:12] David talks about how his mindset and understanding of himself improved during his university studies, making math easier for him.



[10:19] David emphasizes the importance of open and honest conversations and the need for more discussions around neurodiversity.



[15:32] David shares a personal experience with dyslexia during a school reading and reflects on the impact of neurodivergence in the classroom.



[23:40] David discusses the importance of finding balance in life and shares his two rules to live by.



[31:18] David suggests creating inclusive workplaces that support families and involve them in company events.



[40:11] David highlights the importance of mentorship and encourages seeking guidance from respected individuals.



[42:23] David and Theo discuss the transformative power of mentorship and the impact it can have on individuals' lives.



[43:49] Theo thanks David for being a guest on the podcast and encourages listeners to engage with the show.



Love the intro music... it's from a past guest High Contrast: Music is Everything



Follow our youtube page here:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCLoGgd4xWiX4AASjn6p3hMA

Tania Martin, EY UKI’s Neuro-Diverse Centre of Excellence Leader, shares her journey and the work being done to promote neurodiversity and neuroinclusion in the workplace.

The conversation covers the shift from autism at work to neuro-inclusive programs, the evolution of neurodiverse centers of excellence, and the importance of breaking down barriers to entry and supporting hidden neurodivergent individuals.

Tania also discusses the changes made to the recruitment process, the impact of her ADHD diagnosis on her personal and professional life, and the need for self-acceptance and self-kindness.

The conversation concludes with insights into the recruitment process and opportunities for improvement.

Takeaways


The shift from autism programs to neuro-inclusive programs is essential to support a broader range of neurodivergent individuals in the workplace.
Breaking down barriers to entry and supporting hidden neurodivergent individuals are crucial aspects of neurodiversity initiatives.
The recruitment process should be adapted to be more inclusive and accessible, with a focus on building psychological safety for neurodivergent candidates.
Self-acceptance and self-kindness are important for individuals with neurodivergent conditions, and organisations should create an environment that supports and values neurodiversity. The way content is presented and the partners chosen can greatly impact the success of neurodiversity recruitment efforts.
Sensitivity and representation are crucial to avoid marginalisation and stigmatisation.
Learning from D&I leaders and their experiences can provide valuable insights for neuroinclusive recruitment.
Consistency and budget investment are necessary to achieve long-term success in neurodiversity initiatives.
Educating others and promoting widespread understanding of neurodiversity can lead to a greater impact.
Starting small, testing, and piloting initiatives can be an effective approach to implementing neurodiversity recruitment strategies.
Neuro-inclusion is not only important for business performance but also for our social responsibility to create a better future for all.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background

02:05 Shifting from Autism Programs to Neuro-Inclusive Programs

03:30 Positive Shift in Neurodiversity Approach

04:27 Evolution of Neurodiverse Centers of Excellence

05:25 Breaking Down Barriers to Entry and Hidden Neurodivergent Individuals

06:24 Changing the Recruitment Process

07:20 Investment in Talent Acquisition and Neurodiversity

09:01 Anti-Recruitment Process and Innovation

10:56 Recognition and External Validation

11:54 Personal Journey and Understanding of ADHD

12:39 Challenges and Opportunities in Career

17:05 Impact of Diagnosis on Self-Acceptance and Self-Kindness

20:58 Journey to Neurodiversity Centre of Excellence

32:07 Recruitment Process and Building Psychological Safety

48:19 Learnings and Opportunities for Improvement

51:57 The Importance of Content Presentation

52:27 The Impact of Partner Selection

53:08 Sensitivity and Representation

54:09 Learning from D&I Leaders

55:06 Consistency and Budget Investment

56:07 Educating Others for Greater Impact

57:00 Advice for Starting the Journey

59:36 The Social Responsibility of Neuro-Inclusion

Follow Tania here:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/taniafmartin/



Learn more about EY NCOE here:

https://www.ey.com/en_uk/news/2021/07/ey-launches-first-neuro-diverse-centre-of-excellence-in-the-uk-to-boost-client-innovation


This episode is supercharged by Dynamis Group

https://dynamisgroup.com/

Love the intro music... it's from a past guest High Contrast: Music is Everything

In this episode, Theo Smith interviews Sasha Frank, a stand-up comedian who is ADHD. Sasha shares her journey from the corporate world to comedy, the impact of ADHD on her life, and her experiences with medication.

She also discusses parenting as an ADHD individual and the therapeutic benefits of comedy. Sasha emphasises the importance of embracing differences and being transparent about one's challenges.

Takeaways


Embrace your differences and don't worry about conforming to societal norms.
Transparency and open communication about your experiences can lead to understanding and support from others.
Find a hobby or outlet that brings you joy and helps you manage your mental health.
Parenting as an ADHD individual may require finding alternative ways to engage with your child and manage daily routines.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Sasha Frank

03:03 Early Life and Career

08:50 Discovering Stand-up Comedy

10:45 Realizing the Connection to ADHD

14:51 Understanding Strengths and Challenges

18:02 Managing Responsibilities and Dual Life

20:12 Experiences with ADHD Medication

25:50 Parenting as an ADHD Individual

29:07 Comedy as an Outlet

33:47 Embracing Differences and Transparency

https://www.imdb.com/name/nm12947303/?ref_=ext_shr_lnk



This episode is supercharged by Dynamis Group

https://dynamisgroup.com/

You can buy Amanda and Theo's new book 'Neurodiversity At Work here:

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Neurodiversity-Work-Performance-Productivity-Neurodiverse/dp/1398600245

Love the intro music... it's from a past guest High Contrast: Music is Everything

#NeurodiversityAtWork #Neurodiversity #ADHD