Black Girl, Brown Girl...Squirrel! A Podcast for Neurodivergent Women of Color

The Squirrels

Welcome to Black Girl, Brown Girl… Squirrel! — the podcast for Black, Hispanic, Latina, and Asian women who are Neurodivergent (or wondering if they might be). We’re your Sista Squirrels 🐿️ Shai and Lex — here to celebrate the chaos, the brilliance, and the hilarity of brains that don’t follow the “default settings.” Around here, tangents are the point. We talk about life with: 🌀 ADHD — from hyperfocus to forgotten keys (again).✨ Autism / AuDHD — deep dives, sensory adventures, and social “huh?” moments.💭 Anxiety & Depression — the not-so-fun side quests.💡 Self-diagnosis & discovery — figuring it out as we go. Expect unfiltered stories, laughter that derails into tangents, and the relief of knowing you’re not the only one. Whether you’ve got a diagnosis, are self-identifying, or just suspect your brain might be running on a custom operating system, you belong here. So grab your snacks, follow the chaos, and come squirrel with us. Life’s way more fun (and way less lonely) when you realize “off the rails” is the best track.

  1. Jul 1

    Season 2 Episode 7 - Running a Business With ADHD and Chronic Illness (Part 1)

    Send us Fan Mail What does it really look like to run a business with ADHD and chronic illness? In this episode of Black Girl, Brown Girl… Squirrel!, Shai shares the real behind-the-scenes of Neurodivergent entrepreneurship, including executive dysfunction, impulsive spending, procrastination, chronic pain, burnout, energy management, and learning to build systems that work with her brain. We also talk about the strengths ADHD can bring to business, from creativity and big-picture thinking to pattern recognition, empathy, and innovation. Plus, Shai shares practical lessons around flexibility, finances, self-advocacy, boundaries, and using AI to reduce mental load. This episode is for Neurodivergent entrepreneurs, women of color in business, adults with ADHD, people living with chronic illness, and anyone learning to build success on their own terms. 🐿️ TIME STAMPS 00:20 Life Updates, Caregiving, and Finding Peace 01:52 Mom’s Moyamoya Diagnosis and Recovery 04:03 Family History, Strokes, and Community Support 11:28 Shai’s Career and What She Actually Does 17:55 Communication, Leadership, and Neurodivergence 22:21 Bringing Lived Experience Into the Workplace 27:57 Why Shai Became an Entrepreneur 33:50 Running a Business With ADHD 35:48 Impulsive Spending, Finances, and Hard Lessons 37:56 When a Working Relationship Had to End 42:57 Managing ADHD, Energy, and Burnout 49:59 Challenging Myths About Disabled Entrepreneurs 51:46 Advice for Neurodivergent and Chronically Ill Founders 56:21 Using AI to Organize Ideas and Reduce Mental Load 1:00:13 Final Thoughts and Closing RESOURCES Mental Health Resources 988 Suicide & Crisis LifelineTherapy for Black GirlsInclusive TherapistsClinicians of ColorNeurodivergent Resources ADDitude MagazineAttention Deficit Disorder Association (ADDA)Association for Autism & Neurodiversity (AANE)The Color of Autism Foundation UnderstoodJob Accommodation Network (JAN)CONNECT WITH US Fan Page: Fanlist.com/BGBGSquirrel  IG: @BGBGSquirrel Threads: @BGBGSquirrel Email: BGBGSquirrel@Gmail.com

  2. Jul 8

    Season 2 Episode 8 - Different Brains at Work: Communication, Advocacy & Inclusive Leadership

    Send us Fan Mail In this episode of Black Girl, Brown Girl… Squirrel!, Shai and Alexis unpack Neurodiversity at work, workplace communication, self-advocacy, and inclusive leadership.  From communication mismatches to accommodations to allyship, they share practical ways leaders can better support Neurodivergent employees and create workplaces where different brains can thrive.  Because sometimes the issue is not performance. Sometimes the instructions were clear as mud. 🐿️ TIMESTAMPS 00:00 — Opening and setting up the workplace conversation 06:17 — Corporate jargon, acronyms, and learning the language of business 17:46 — Dyscalculia and navigating number-heavy workplace expectations 26:24 — How Neurodivergent communication gets misread at work 30:57 — Communication mismatch or performance problem? 40:24 — Practical leadership tools: agendas, clarity, and communication preferences 47:04 — Self-advocacy, PDA, ADHD, and asking for what you need 53:53 — ADA accommodations, credibility, and workplace allyship 60:49 — Why Neuroinclusion benefits workplace culture and business results 63:58 — Closing thoughts  ACRONYMS AND TERMS USED IN THIS EPISODE Accruals Accounting entries that recognize income when it is earned and expenses when they are incurred, rather than only when money is received or paid. ADA — Americans with Disabilities Act A United States civil-rights law that protects qualified people with disabilities from discrimination. In employment, a reasonable accommodation may involve changing a job process, work environment, or customary practice so a qualified employee can perform essential functions and access equal employment opportunities. ADHD — Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder A neurodevelopmental condition involving persistent differences in attention regulation, activity level, impulse control, organization, or executive functioning. Traits begin in childhood and can continue into adulthood. AP — Accounts Payable Money the organization owes to vendors, contractors, or suppliers. AR — Accounts Receivable Money customers or clients owe the organization for products or services already provided. AuDHD An informal community term describing the experience of being both Autistic and ADHD. It is not a separate clinical diagnosis. AVP — Associate Vice President A corporate leadership title. Its level, responsibilities, and authority can vary significantly between companies and industries. Dyscalculia A learning difference that can make it difficult to understand number concepts, perform calculations, estimate quantities, or work comfortably with numerical information. It does not reflect a person’s intelligence or overall capability. PDA — Pathological Demand Avoidance / Persistent Drive for Autonomy A term used for a pattern in which demands or perceived loss of autonomy may trigger strong avoidance or distress. It is commonly discussed as a profile associated with autism, although it is not a separate formal diagnosis in the DSM-5. RFP — Request for Proposal A formal request inviting vendors or service providers to submit a proposed solution, scope, timeline, and price for a project. RESOURCES Mental Health Resources 988 Suicide & Crisis LifelineTherapy for Black GirlsInclusive TherapistsClinicians of ColorNeurodivergent Resources ADDitude MagazineAttention Deficit Disorder Association (ADDA)Association for Autism & Neurodiversity (AANE)The Color of Autism Foundation UnderstoodJob Accommodation Network (JAN)CONNECT WITH US Fan Page: Fanlist.com/BGBGSquirrel  IG: @BGBGSquirrel Threads: @BGBGSquirrel Email: BGBGSquirrel@Gmail.com

    Season 2 Episode 8 - Different Brains at Work: Communication, Advocacy & Inclusive Leadership

  3. Jun 17

    S2E6 - ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, and Self-Acceptance: Learning to Be Okay With the Extras

    Send us Fan Mail Trigger warning: This episode includes brief mentions of self-harm. Please protect your mental health and check the show notes for resources. In part two of our conversation with our show bestie Jazz, we continue talking about ADHD, bipolar disorder type 2, depression, medication, therapy, self-advocacy, and learning to be okay with “the extras” that can come with diagnosis. Jazz shares what mania and depressive episodes can feel like, how medication helped her understand what “level” feels like, and how ADHD impacts her day-to-day life through routines, systems, dopamine hits, dysregulation, and the ADHD tax. This episode is real, honest, funny, tender, and deeply BGBGS. 🐿️ RESOURCES Mental Health Resources 988 Suicide & Crisis LifelineTherapy for Black GirlsInclusive TherapistsClinicians of ColorNeurodivergent Resources ADDitude MagazineAttention Deficit Disorder Association (ADDA)Association for Autism & Neurodiversity (AANE)The Color of Autism Foundation UnderstoodJob Accommodation Network (JAN)CONNECT WITH US Fan Page: Fanlist.com/BGBGSquirrel  IG: @BGBGSquirrel Threads: @BGBGSquirrel Email: BGBGSquirrel@Gmail.com

    S2E6 - ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, and Self-Acceptance: Learning to Be Okay With the Extras

  4. Jun 10

    S2E5 - ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, and Comorbidities: Real Talk on Diagnosis, Therapy, & Self-Advocacy

    Send us Fan Mail In this episode of Black Girl, Brown Girl… Squirrel!, we welcome our show bestie Jazz for part one of a real and hilarious conversation about ADHD, bipolar disorder type 2, anxiety, fibromyalgia, chronic migraines, therapy, diagnosis, and the comorbidities that can come with neurodivergence. Jazz shares her perspective as both a certified pediatric nurse and certified neuroscience nurse, while also opening up about her own mental health journey, the long process of ADHD testing, finding the right therapist, and learning how to advocate for herself in healthcare. We talk about therapy, medical self-advocacy, women’s pain, misdiagnosis, neurodivergent women of color, and what it means when ADHD “brings friends.” And yes, there are squirrel moments, laughter, drinks, and accidental energy drink chaos along the way. 🐿️ RESOURCES Mental Health Resources 988 Suicide & Crisis LifelineTherapy for Black GirlsInclusive TherapistsClinicians of ColorNeurodivergent Resources ADDitude MagazineAttention Deficit Disorder Association (ADDA)Association for Autism & Neurodiversity (AANE)The Color of Autism Foundation UnderstoodJob Accommodation Network (JAN)CONNECT WITH US Fan Page: Fanlist.com/BGBGSquirrel  IG: @BGBGSquirrel Threads: @BGBGSquirrel Email: BGBGSquirrel@Gmail.com

    S2E5 - ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, and Comorbidities: Real Talk on Diagnosis, Therapy, & Self-Advocacy

  5. Jun 3

    S2E4 - When ADHD Big Ideas Meet Autistic Structure: Our Podcast Partnership

    Send us Fan Mail In this episode of Black Girl, Brown Girl… Squirrel!, we talk about what it’s like to build a podcast together as Neurodivergent women of color with different brains. From ADHD creativity and big-picture thinking to autistic clarity, direct communication, and systems, we explore how our friendship, communication, and collaboration make the show work. We also get honest about the challenges, the funny moments, and the care it takes to protect the friendship while building something meaningful together. 🐿️ TIMESTAMPS 00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview 01:21 Friendship Dynamics and Neurodiversity 05:00 Creative Collaboration and Idea Generation 07:11 Social Media and Digital Boundaries 10:10 Humor and Cultural References 18:52 Communication Styles and Conversation Flow 25:21 Expectations and Responsibilities in Collaboration 33:23 Navigating Friendship and Professionalism 42:30 Respect and Care in Collaborative Ventures RESOURCES ADDitude Magazine: https://www.additudemag.com/ Therapist and Mental Health Resources Psychology Today Website: https://www.psychologytoday.com/usNational Institute of Mental Health Website: https://www.nimh.nih.gov/CONNECT WITH US Join our fan page at Fanlist.com/BGBGSquirrel and share your thoughts on this episode, ask questions, or share your story.  IG: @BGBGSquirrel Threads: @BGBGSquirrel Email: BGBGSquirrel@Gmail.com RESOURCES Mental Health Resources 988 Suicide & Crisis LifelineTherapy for Black GirlsInclusive TherapistsClinicians of ColorNeurodivergent Resources ADDitude MagazineAttention Deficit Disorder Association (ADDA)Association for Autism & Neurodiversity (AANE)The Color of Autism Foundation UnderstoodJob Accommodation Network (JAN)CONNECT WITH US Fan Page: Fanlist.com/BGBGSquirrel  IG: @BGBGSquirrel Threads: @BGBGSquirrel Email: BGBGSquirrel@Gmail.com

    S2E4 - When ADHD Big Ideas Meet Autistic Structure: Our Podcast Partnership

  6. May 27

    S2E3 - 12 Years of Growth, Friendship, and Understanding

    Send us Fan Mail In this episode, we explore the nuances of friendship, neurodivergence, and personal growth through our candid stories about our friendship journey, communication styles, and the importance of understanding and acceptance. Chapters and Timestamps 00:00 Introduction and Friendship Dynamics 02:49 Exploring the Origins of Our Friendship 05:40 Memorable Moments and Shared Experiences 08:38 Understanding Each Other's Perspectives 11:28 The Impact of Time on Our Friendship 14:27 Navigating Communication Differences 17:33 Reflections on Growth and Connection 24:33 Navigating Memory and Trauma 29:30 Communication Styles and Neurodiversity 34:37 Healing from Childhood Experiences 39:40 Understanding and Defending the Inner Child 53:45 Empowerment and Advocacy in Neurodivergence RESOURCES Mental Health Resources 988 Suicide & Crisis LifelineTherapy for Black GirlsInclusive TherapistsClinicians of ColorNeurodivergent Resources ADDitude MagazineAttention Deficit Disorder Association (ADDA)Association for Autism & Neurodiversity (AANE)The Color of Autism Foundation UnderstoodJob Accommodation Network (JAN)CONNECT WITH US Fan Page: Fanlist.com/BGBGSquirrel  IG: @BGBGSquirrel Threads: @BGBGSquirrel Email: BGBGSquirrel@Gmail.com

  7. May 20

    S2E2 - From Friendship to Growth: Our Journey Together

    Send us Fan Mail Join us as we explore the journey of friendship, self-acceptance, and the behind-the-scenes of podcasting as neurodivergent women of color. We share personal stories, fears, growth, and plans for future episodes, emphasizing authenticity and community support. CHAPTERS AND TIME STAMPS 00:00 Introduction and Current Life Updates 02:04 The Importance of Support and Right Spaces 03:48 Goals for the Garden and Personal Growth 04:39 Our Friendship's History and Dynamic 06:34 Season One Reflections and Decision-Making Process 10:04 Fears Before Starting the Podcast 15:48 Trust and Commitment in Our Partnership 19:46 Deepening Understanding and Self-Discovery 21:47 Global Reach and Listener Appreciation 23:30 Self-Acceptance and Neurodivergence Journey 29:44 Future Guests and Content Plans 35:03 Season Two and Content Flexibility 42:11 Authenticity and Realness in Our Podcast 45:29 Community Engagement and How to Connect 47:04 Closing Remarks and Next Steps RESOURCES ADDitude Magazine: https://www.additudemag.com/ Therapist and Mental Health Resources Psychology Today: https://www.psychologytoday.com/usNational Institute of Mental Health: https://www.nimh.nih.gov/CONNECT WITH US Join our fan page at Fanlist.com/BGBGSquirrel and share your thoughts on this episode, ask questions, or share your story.  IG: https://www.instagram.com/bgbgsquirrel/ Threads: https://www.threads.com/@bgbgsquirrel Email: BGBGSquirrel@Gmail.com RESOURCES Mental Health Resources 988 Suicide & Crisis LifelineTherapy for Black GirlsInclusive TherapistsClinicians of ColorNeurodivergent Resources ADDitude MagazineAttention Deficit Disorder Association (ADDA)Association for Autism & Neurodiversity (AANE)The Color of Autism Foundation UnderstoodJob Accommodation Network (JAN)CONNECT WITH US Fan Page: Fanlist.com/BGBGSquirrel  IG: @BGBGSquirrel Threads: @BGBGSquirrel Email: BGBGSquirrel@Gmail.com

    S2E2 - From Friendship to Growth: Our Journey Together

  8. May 15

    S2E1 - Where you been friend?

    Send us Fan Mail ***Trigger Warning*** Discussion about grief and mental health In this heartfelt episode, hosts Shai and Lex share their personal stories of health challenges, grief, and resilience. They discuss the impact of illness, loss, and mental health, emphasizing the importance of community, self-awareness, and seeking support during tough times. CHAPTERS AND TIME STAMPS 0:00 Welcome Back to the Squirrel Tribe 1:48 Health Challenges and Personal Stories 17:02 Navigating Health Issues and Family Support 22:56 Navigating Sudden Grief 26:53 The Impact of Loss on Family Dynamics 30:45 Coping Mechanisms and Support Systems 36:16 The Journey Through Grief 42:28 Self-Awareness and Healing 49:31 Building a Community of Support RESOURCES ADDitude Magazine: https://www.additudemag.com/ Therapist and Mental Health Resources Psychology Today: https://www.psychologytoday.com/usNational Institute of Mental Health: https://www.nimh.nih.gov/ CONNECT WITH US Join our fan page at Fanlist.com/BGBGSquirrel and share your thoughts on this episode, ask questions, or share your story.  IG: https://www.instagram.com/bgbgsquirrel/ Threads: https://www.threads.com/@bgbgsquirrel Email: BGBGSquirrel@Gmail.com RESOURCES Mental Health Resources 988 Suicide & Crisis LifelineTherapy for Black GirlsInclusive TherapistsClinicians of ColorNeurodivergent Resources ADDitude MagazineAttention Deficit Disorder Association (ADDA)Association for Autism & Neurodiversity (AANE)The Color of Autism Foundation UnderstoodJob Accommodation Network (JAN)CONNECT WITH US Fan Page: Fanlist.com/BGBGSquirrel  IG: @BGBGSquirrel Threads: @BGBGSquirrel Email: BGBGSquirrel@Gmail.com

    S2E1 - Where you been friend?
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Trailer

About

Welcome to Black Girl, Brown Girl… Squirrel! — the podcast for Black, Hispanic, Latina, and Asian women who are Neurodivergent (or wondering if they might be). We’re your Sista Squirrels 🐿️ Shai and Lex — here to celebrate the chaos, the brilliance, and the hilarity of brains that don’t follow the “default settings.” Around here, tangents are the point. We talk about life with: 🌀 ADHD — from hyperfocus to forgotten keys (again).✨ Autism / AuDHD — deep dives, sensory adventures, and social “huh?” moments.💭 Anxiety & Depression — the not-so-fun side quests.💡 Self-diagnosis & discovery — figuring it out as we go. Expect unfiltered stories, laughter that derails into tangents, and the relief of knowing you’re not the only one. Whether you’ve got a diagnosis, are self-identifying, or just suspect your brain might be running on a custom operating system, you belong here. So grab your snacks, follow the chaos, and come squirrel with us. Life’s way more fun (and way less lonely) when you realize “off the rails” is the best track.

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