The Neurodiverse Lens: A CDL Podcast

The Neurodiverse Lens: A CDL Podcast

Amplifying and empowering neurodiverse learners through conversations for parents, professionals, and neurodiverse individuals.

  1. 10/27/2025

    The Neurodiverse Lens: Every Brain is Beautiful with Sarah Furlong

    In this episode, we chat with author and creative director Sarah Furlong, whose children’s book Every Brain is Beautiful introduces neurodiversity to young readers in a way that celebrates differences and fosters empathy.We explore early education, representation in storytelling, and how families and educators can start meaningful conversations about neurodiversity. 00:00 — Welcome to The Neurodiverse Lens00:30 — Meet Sarah Furlong: author, parent, and creative director01:15 — The story behind Every Brain is Beautiful02:50 — Why it’s important to introduce neurodiversity early04:00 — Using animals and soft colours to ensure inclusion05:30 — Feedback from parents and educators06:00 — Expanding the Every Brain series: ADHD, Autism, Dyslexia & more07:00 — Sarah’s new book Mission Pancake and its fun approach to ADHD08:00 — Introducing StoryA: personalized storytelling through the mail09:30 — How personalized letters encourage kids to read10:40 — Empowering kids through accurate labels and diagnosis12:00 — Teaching self-advocacy at home and in classrooms13:00 — How teachers and parents can use these books to start conversations14:30 — Building inclusive environments through early understanding15:30 — What’s next for Sarah: expanding Every Brain and launching StoryA16:00 — The power of inclusive storytelling in shaping communities18:00 — Where to find Sarah’s books and StoryA19:40 — Closing thoughts and CDL resources ⏱️ Timestamps

    21 min
  2. 10/01/2025

    Episode 8: Learning Disabilities Awareness Month

    October is Learning Disabilities Awareness Month—and we’re busting myths, sharing real stories from our programs, and talking about what actually helps kids thrive. Carolyn and Jordan unpack what an LD is (and isn’t), why direct, evidence-based instruction matters, and how strengths like creative problem-solving and resilience show up when students get the right supports. We spotlight CDL programs that take a whole-child approach:• Leaps in Literacy (systematic, phonics-based small groups)• Mastering Mathematics (multi-sensory, foundations-first)• Executive Functioning (planning, organizing, study skills)• Social Skills: Friendships & Relationships (communication, regulation)• Homework Health (drop-in homework help + on-site youth mental health workers)• Friendship Club (facilitated connection and belonging) You’ll also hear an update for Halton and Hamilton families: free Parent Support Appointments are now available to both regions—book at diverselearners.ca (look for “Parent Support Appointment”). If this conversation moves you, the most impactful way to help is to become a monthly donor.$42/month (~$1.40/day) takes a child off our waitlist and into a program with trained educators. Donate at diverselearners.ca/donate. Want to get involved in other ways?Volunteer or share this episode to boost our reach: diverselearners.ca/get-involved • info@diverselearners.ca Content note: brief mention of a family fleeing domestic violence. More about the Centre for Diverse Learners: diverselearners.ca

    36 min
  3. 08/25/2025

    Episode 7: Disclosing Neurodiversity in the Workplace - When, Why & How

    The Neurodiverse Lens – Episode 7 Disclosing Neurodiversity in the Workplace: When, Why & How Disclosure is a deeply personal decision. In this episode, Carolyn and Jordan unpack the complexities of sharing your neurodiversity at work—why you might disclose, what the risks are, and how to navigate accommodations while protecting your mental health. From personal stories to practical advice, this conversation explores the balance between advocacy and self-preservation in workplaces that are not always neurodiverse-friendly. 🔎 Whether you’ve disclosed, are considering it, or prefer to keep it private, this episode provides strategies, support, and reassurance that every choice is valid. 00:01 – Welcome & introduction 00:27 – What does disclosure mean in the workplace? 02:02 – The impact of stigma and unconscious bias 03:41 – Carolyn’s personal disclosure journey 05:42 – Accommodations that could have helped earlier 06:57 – Types of disclosure: HR vs. full workplace openness 08:46 – Positive and negative stories from disclosing 10:59 – Risks: promotions, unconscious bias, and legal rights 13:09 – Navigating workplace disclosure step by step 15:10 – How disclosure can build understanding (LASIK story) 17:19 – Self-advocacy and small workplace accommodations 19:55 – Handling toxic workplaces and self-accommodations 23:07 – First steps if you’re considering disclosure 25:00 – CDL training and workplace supports

    26 min

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Amplifying and empowering neurodiverse learners through conversations for parents, professionals, and neurodiverse individuals.