Free Range Thinking - A Neurodiversity Podcast with Sharon Leigh and Alex Kahl

Free Range Thinking - A Neurodiversity Podcast

Your hosts Sharon Leigh and Alex Kahl take Neurodiversity as a starting point for the conversation. And go right off into the weeds and down interesting rabbitholes ;) One of our first goals with the podcast is to find some languaging and words around the whole topic of Neurodiversity. So please send us your feedback, questions, experiences with Neurodiversity or come on the show as a guest! We would love, when you join our Newsletter http://free-range-thinking.com Sharon's LinkedIn is: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sharon-leigh-pp4l/ and you can reach Alex via mail@alex-kahl.de

  1. 12/15/2025

    The Impact of Technology on Learning Parenthood and Education

    In this conversation, we - Sharon Leigh and Alex Kahl, explore various themes surrounding parenting, education, and societal challenges. We discuss the importance of gratitude, the complexities of the education system, and the impact of technology on learning. The conversation also delves into the PISA study's implications for education in Germany today and 25 years ago, the role of politics in shaping educational policies, and the need for resilience in modern society especially for neurodivergent people. They emphasize the significance of encouraging individuality in children and the importance of community engagement in addressing issues like food deserts. The discussion highlights the challenges of modern parenting and the influence of social media on children's development. Chapters 00:00 Reflections on Time and Gratitude 01:40 Navigating the Education System 03:54 Exploring Children's Aspirations 06:33 Innovative Projects and Future Generations 09:11 The State of Education in Germany 14:59 Immediacy and Long-term Thinking 19:08 Patience and Self-Regulation 23:48 Resilience and Rebounding from Disappointment 24:41 Innovative Solutions: 3D Printing and Social Startups 27:59 Understanding Food Deserts and Access to Fresh Produce 34:20 The Long Game: Societal Change and Political Dynamics 36:38 The Ripple Effect of Individual Actions 39:23 Education Systems: Challenges and Opportunities 47:22 Navigating Educational Systems 49:14 Social Media and Its Impact on Youth 52:05 The Experiment of Social Media Policies 56:40 Parenting in the Digital Age 01:01:21 Self-Regulation and Emotional Growth 01:03:43 Reflections on Current Events and Generational Challenges

    1h 16m

  2. 10/26/2025

    Archivepisode - Experimenting Playfully: Tools, Keyboards, and Neurodivergence on Free Range Thinking #01 of 2025

    Welcome to Season 2025 of Free Range Thinking! 🎉 In this episode, Sharon and Alex explore the complexities of living and thriving as neurodivergent individuals. You can subscruibe here on our website:http://free-range-thinking.com aaaand to our YouTube Channel if you would like to see us as well :-D https://www.youtube.com/@freerangethinkingpodcast Topics include:The frustrations of switching digital tools and the joy of split keyboards 🎹How difficult it can be to get an ADHD diagnosis in Germany 😓The “demasking” phase after diagnosis and its impact on relationships 💡Evolving agreements, unmet expectations, and fostering better communication 🗣️How workplaces can adapt to support neurodivergent employees 🙌We also tease some exciting news about our upcoming newsletter! 🚀🌟 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and join the conversation in the comments below!🔗 Mentioned tools: Instapaper, Pocket, GoodLinksChapters Galore!00:00 - Intro to 2025 Season01:15 - Celebrating Neurodivergence and Podcast Anniversary03:18 - Weekly Life Updates: Parties, Dentists, and Work Travel04:47 - Alex on Digital Tool Chaos and Switching Apps07:01 - The Frustrations of Read-Later Solutions10:13 - Teasing the Upcoming Newsletter10:49 - Trying Ergo Split Keyboards: A New Experiment like MoErgo Glove80 and Dygma Defy14:24 - The Challenge of ADHD Diagnosis in Germany22:35 - Demasking Phase Post-Diagnosis and Relationship Dynamics24:45 - Navigating Changed Agreements and Expectations28:12 - Creating Inclusive Workplaces for Neurodivergent Individuals38:02 - Reflecting on Workplace Ambiance and Solutions51:40 - Workplace Dynamics: Responsibility and Leadership Lessons59:49 - Closing: Welcome to 2025!

    1 hr

  3. 10/08/2025

    The secret of Secrets, Dan Brown, GABA, Neurodivergents and so much more :)

    Greetings Friends! In this episode we explore the intersection of neurodivergence, airport thriller literature :), and the human experience. We start with Dan Brown's 'The Secret of Secrets', the evolution of language surrounding neurodivergence, and the importance of storytelling in society. And we wouldnt be FRT if we would not go down one or the other rabbit hole :) So we delve into themes of consciousness, creativity, and the role of art in addressing complex topics such as death and personal growth. Through our discussion we highlight the significance of individual interpretation, the power of creative expression in shaping perspectives and how we add stuff to the things we read, watch and listen to. And we look into GABA - the aminoacid that makes us calm AND lets our life rush in front of our lifes in near death experiences Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Neurodivergence and Literature 01:46 Exploring Dan Brown's 'The Secret of Secrets' 04:52 The Evolution of Language in Neurodivergence 07:55 Consciousness and Connectivity in Modern Society 10:46 Hope and Transformation in Literature 14:04 The Role of Artists in Society 17:01 Creating Spaces for Creativity 19:53 The Power of Open-Mindedness 22:01 The Skeptic's Perspective in Literature 24:58 Concluding Thoughts on Dialogue and Understanding 27:17 The Power of Storytelling 30:42 The Role of the Reader in Interpretation 33:22 Children's Understanding of Death 37:52 Fear of Death and Its Implications 43:12 The Science of GABA and Stress 50:41 Exploring Altered States of Consciousness

    52 min

  4. 09/29/2025

    WE ARE BACK! :-) and talk about How do you self calm?

    We knoooow it has been a long time :) But we are back (in fact we never went anywhere - we recorded almost weekly - but didn't published) until TODAY! YAY! In this conversation, we (Alex and Sharon) shortly reflect on our summer adventures and the importance of maintaining connections. Then we delve into the significance of self-calming techniques, coping mechanisms, and the dynamics of neurodiversity in relationships. We highlight the necessity of preparedness in various situations, the role of humor and storytelling in social interactions, and the importance of communication in navigating relationships. And in the end we share our own practical self-calming strategies and tactics. If you would like to share your best self calming techniques with us, please let us know! mail@alex-kahl.de with Subject: FRT Feedback Self Calming

    1h 17m

  5. 01/26/2025

    065 - From Compliance to Community: Understanding Neurodiversity with Grant Harris

    In our final Interview-episode of 2024, we welcome Grant Harris, a certified diversity executive, coach, and consultant, to explore the multifaceted world of neurodiversity. Subscribe to our Newsletter on our website: http://free-range-thinking.com aaaand to our YouTube Channel if you would like to see us as well :-D https://www.youtube.com/@freerangethinkingpodcast Grant shares his late autism diagnosis story, growing up with unique communication styles, and how neurodiversity impacts workplaces. We discuss how to shift perspectives from compliance to building community and why neurodiversity isn't just another "initiative." Join us for a thought-provoking conversation about distinct human experiences, the challenges of masking, and how neurodiversity can be a powerful asset. Links: Grant Harris's Website - https://www.compliancetocommunity.com/ Grant's Linktree - https://linktr.ee/grantharris 00:00 Intro and Welcome 03:02 Grant’s Childhood and Late Diagnosis 09:00 Neurodistinct instead of Neurospicy 19:47 Workplace Resistance to Neurodiversity 26:03 How to Build Inclusive Communities 41:20 Autism as an Asset 52:43 Closing Thoughts 📢 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more episodes!

    58 min

  6. 01/26/2025

    064 - Breaking Free from the Corporate Calendar | Neurodiversity & Executive Function Challenges

    This was our last regular Episode of 2024! Sharon Leigh and Alex Kahl discuss how societal constructs like the corporate calendar can clash with neurodivergent rhythms. They share personal stories about managing ADHD, debunk common misconceptions, and brainstorm creative solutions like a "Free Range Office Hour" for neurodivergent freelancers. What you'll hear: Why neurodiversity is like understanding how the internet works. The pressures of the corporate calendar and its impact on executive function. Practical strategies for creating a personalized work-life rhythm. An exciting new coworking concept for neurodivergent individuals. Subscribe to our Newsletter on our website: http://free-range-thinking.com aaaand to our YouTube Channel if you would like to see us as well :-D https://www.youtube.com/@freerangethinkingpodcast 🔑 Join us as we explore how neurodivergents can thrive in a one-size-fits-all world. 👉 Subscribe for more neurodiversity insights! 🎧 Available on your favorite podcast platforms. Video-Chapters 00:00 - Introduction: Skipping the usual intro 00:51 - Explaining neurodiversity outside the bubble 02:09 - Why neurodiversity discussions are still vital 03:05 - Analogies: Brains, cars, and the internet 05:41 - Common ADHD misconceptions 09:40 - End-of-year stress and corporate calendar challenges 12:36 - Personal reflections on arbitrary deadlines 17:54 - Shifting holiday traditions: Winter Solstice celebrations 20:00 - Freelancing without contracts: A unique approach 30:22 - Marketing without selling your soul 37:46 - The power of storytelling in building trust 43:31 - Embracing natural work rhythms 52:04 - Creative solutions for neurodivergent challenges 59:01 - Building better support systems 1:05:47 - The idea of the "Free Range Office Hour"

    1h 7m

  7. 11/15/2024

    063 Unlearning & Sensory Boundaries: The Adult Path to Montessori

    In this episode, we dive deep into the challenges and opportunities of applying Montessori methods for adults. Unlike children, teens, or seniors, adults must first go through a crucial process: unlearning. Also your are so invited to contact us via https://www.free-range-thinking.com - ask us questions for the show - come on as a guest - tell us your story about neurodiversity and we would loooove if you sign on for our newsletter that we will send out for the first time soon! :-D Main Rabbitholes of this show: The difference between learning as a child versus as an adult Practical examples of unlearning from martial arts Alex's "Fit with Fifty" challenge and experiences with the walking pad at the desk We discuss the significance of the prepared environment in adulthood and how to optimize it: Workspace design in shared spaces Strategies for distraction-free work The role of clear communication Special focus on: Parenting with sensory challenges Personal insights into our sensory triggers Positive approaches to boundary setting Bonus: How we deal with Election Day anxiety and why setting boundaries can actually be fun. This episode offers practical tips for anyone interested in adult-oriented Montessori methods while considering their own neurological and sensory needs. The Prepared Environment Reimagined Sensory Processing & Boundaries

    1h 18m

  8. 11/13/2024

    062 The one where we fight & Sharon calls Alex sounding like a colonizer ;) 

    Join hosts Sharon and Alex as they dive deep into the fascinating world of neurodivergent experiences, creative pursuits, and the intersection of technology and art. We would love to see you signing up for our newsletter here:  http://free-range-thinking.com It is not out yet but you can be one of the first friends to also read from us, as soon as we get it going! :) Inspiration & Resilience The conversation opens with reflections on Jon Batiste's Tim Ferriss interview, exploring themes of intrinsic motivation, dealing with external doubt, and maintaining self-trust in creative pursuits. A personal anecdote about experiencing masterfully played music from a landlord's brother illustrates the transformative power of art. Energy & Perception The hosts explore the subjective nature of energy and how different neurodivergent individuals perceive and process experiences uniquely. Sharon's Retreat Experience •⁠ ⁠Breaking free from neuronormative expectations •⁠ ⁠Rediscovering childlike wonder and curiosity •⁠ ⁠Navigating the transition between neurodivergent and neurotypical spaces Alex's Processing Methods An interesting discussion about using Amazon book browsing as a post-holiday mental organization tool. Building AI Companions •⁠ ⁠The concept of "The Skeptical Cat" as an AI agent •⁠ ⁠Tool discussion: ChatGPT for agents, Perplexity for bot building •⁠ ⁠Gemini AI Studio for PDF interactions •⁠ ⁠User preferences: typing vs. talking to AI Ethical Considerations •⁠ ⁠Student use of AI tools •⁠ ⁠Copyright implications •⁠ ⁠The impact on artistic integrity The episode culminates in an interesting and kind of emotional discussion about AI's role in art, featuring a memorable moment where Sharon challenges Alex's perspective on AI's impact on creative work. And Alex understands why what he said sounded like a colonizer. Links to Tim Ferriss and Jon Batiste John Batiste at Tim Ferriss - for Sharon especially the second half https://youtu.be/dy6nRYTsKH4?si=7o9g1Z2nm38KcxEl Interpretation of Für ELise https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-5YRhvH6Uys&pp=ygURYmF0aXN0ZSBmdXIgZWxpc2U%3D American Symphony Trailer https://youtu.be/wKSMsdq8ONs?si=cu12uR7rdremh7jR Netflix Docu https://www.netflix.com/de/title/81728930 Jon Batiste hears Green Day for the first Time at Pianote and plays along to Holiday - AWESOME! With this piece Alex fell in love with his music :) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E0hSXIuPBwM

    1h 57m
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About

Your hosts Sharon Leigh and Alex Kahl take Neurodiversity as a starting point for the conversation. And go right off into the weeds and down interesting rabbitholes ;) One of our first goals with the podcast is to find some languaging and words around the whole topic of Neurodiversity. So please send us your feedback, questions, experiences with Neurodiversity or come on the show as a guest! We would love, when you join our Newsletter http://free-range-thinking.com Sharon's LinkedIn is: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sharon-leigh-pp4l/ and you can reach Alex via mail@alex-kahl.de

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