The Neurodiverse Lens: A CDL Podcast

The Neurodiverse Lens: A CDL Podcast
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Amplifying and empowering neurodiverse learners through conversations for parents, professionals, and neurodiverse individuals.

  1. Mar 23

    Episode 3: Advocating Together

    Episode 3: Advocating Together Monday, March 23 | Hosts: Jordan + Carolyn What advocacy looks like when it’s relational and collaborative, Advocating with, not for, neurodivergent individuals, & Everyday examples

    28 min

  2. Mar 9

    The Neurodiverse Lens: Symposium Series | Episode 2: Learning Together

    Episode 2: Learning TogetherMonday, March 9 | Hosts: Jordan + OliviaThe brilliance of neurodivergent learning styles: creativity, hyperfocus, problem‑solving, Barriers created by “good student” stereotypes & Simple, friendly explanations of UDL in action

    42 min

  3. Mar 2

    The Neurodiverse Lens: Symposium Series | Episode 1: Understanding Together

    Episode 1: Understanding Together Monday, March 2 | Hosts: Jordan + CarolynPersonal stories about evolving understandings of neurodiversity, Gentle examples of common misunderstandings

    40 min

  4. 12/08/2025

    Episode 11: The Hidden Toll of Masking

    The Hidden Toll of Masking | The Neurodiverse Lens Podcast (Episode 11) Masking is often seen as a survival skill for neurodiverse individuals — but the emotional and mental toll can be heavy. In this episode, Carolyn and Jordan unpack what masking really is, why it starts so young, and how it impacts identity, relationships, and the ability to feel safe as your authentic self. Whether you’re neurodiverse or an ally, this conversation highlights why understanding masking is key to reducing burnout and building environments where people truly belong. Sponsored by Artemis Assessment & Treatment CentreFeaturing Fidgety Squirrel, their ADHD-friendly children’s mascot! 👇 Chapters00:00 – Welcome & episode intro00:28 – What is masking?05:59 – Gendered masking & social expectations09:05 – The hidden weight of “not fitting in”16:26 – Burnout, shame & mental health impacts22:00 – How allies can create safe spaces26:30 – Building a world where masking isn’t required29:07 – Final reflections & learn more at diverselearners.ca 🔔 New episodes every two weeks — subscribe to join the conversation. Learn more about the Centre for Diverse Learners: diverselearners.ca #NeurodiverseLens #Masking #Neurodiversity #Autism #ADHD #MentalHealth #Unmasking #InclusiveCommunities #CentreForDiverseLearners

    31 min

  5. 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

  6. 10/14/2025

    Episode 9: Social Emotional Learning

    Social Emotional Learning | The Neurodiverse Lens PodcastGuest: Olivia Fong, Social Emotional Program Manager at the Centre for Diverse LearnersHost: Jordan Handley-Passalacqua, Communications Manager Explore how social emotional learning (SEL) supports neurodiverse students—and how parents, educators, and communities can help build confidence, resilience, and connection. ⏱️ Timestamps: 00:00 – Intro to The Neurodiverse Lens & Olivia Fong01:00 – Olivia’s journey from volunteer to program manager02:30 – Why SEL matters for neurodiverse learners04:15 – What SEL looks like in practice (yes, it can be messy!)06:00 – Common SEL challenges neurodiverse students face08:00 – Inside the Friendships & Relationships program10:00 – Executive Functioning & Social Skills: real-life impact11:30 – Homework Health: free tutoring & mental health support13:00 – Friendship Club PA Day program announcement14:45 – Student success stories that stick with us17:00 – How $42/month can take a child off our waitlist19:00 – Practical takeaways for parents21:00 – SEL strategies educators can use23:00 – Free resource calls for Halton families24:45 – Olivia’s hopes for the future of SEL at CDL26:00 – Final thoughts and how to support our work 🔗 Learn more or donate: https://diverselearners.ca📩 Contact us: info@diverselearners.ca📱 Follow us on social media: @diverselearners

    26 min

  7. 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

  8. 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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About

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

Information

  • Creator
    The Neurodiverse Lens: A CDL Podcast
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    14
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © The Neurodiverse Lens: A CDL Podcast
  • Show Website
    The Neurodiverse Lens: A CDL Podcast