Navigating Neurodiversity in Public Service: A Conversation with Housing Executive Director Jonathan Cappelli

Welcome to the Debut Episode of Healing Our Politics!

Guest: Jonathan Cappelli, a dedicated public servant, Executive Director, and regional expert in affordable housing and urban development.

In this inaugural episode, host Skippy Mesirow delves into Jonathan's remarkable journey in public service. From the mangroves of Ecuador to the forests of Colorado, Jonathan shares his experiences, highlighting how he has navigated his career while managing ADHD and a recent bipolar disorder diagnosis. Together, they explore how Jonathan's unique challenges have become strengths, enhancing his problem-solving, decision-making, and leadership skills.

Ultimately, Jonathan has learned to leverage personal challenges as strengths to improve problem-solving, decision-making, and management abilities, and you will learn how you can, too…

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Key Topics Discussed:

• [00:03:32] Protecting Mangrove Ecosystems: Jonathan's internship in Ecuador and his efforts against illegal shrimp farming.
• [00:05:27] Cultural Insights: Understanding the Afro-Ecuadorian community and culture.
• [00:11:40] Environmental Conservation: Reflecting on the lessons learned from conservation challenges.
• [00:27:40] Nature & Mental Health: The therapeutic role of nature in Jonathan's life.
• [00:41:47] Managing Neurodiversity: Insights into living with ADHD and bipolar disorder.
• [00:51:00] The Role of Jiu-jitsu: How practicing jiu-jitsu has been a transformative experience for Jonathan.
• [01:01:15] The Concept of Monotaxyphilia: Discussing the love of single explanations.
• [01:15:30] Reflections on the Keshet Program: A look into special needs education.
• [01:30:25] Coping Strategies: Jonathan’s techniques for managing stress and staying productive.
• [01:57:45] Workplace Strategies: Effective approaches for managing neurodiversity in professional settings.

Where to Find Jonathan Cappelli:

• Neighborhood Development Collaborative - The Neighborhood Development Collaborative (NDC), is a 501(c)3  composed of 20 Front Range affordable housing and community development organizations. Their mission is to build thriving communities by connecting the voices and coordinating the efforts of NDC members working to create stable, secure, and affordable re-housing, rental, homeownership, and wealth-building opportunities for Coloradans, regardless of their race, class, and zip code.
• Cappelli Consulting - Specializing in affordable housing and urban development strategies. Cappelli Consulting provides comprehensive solutions to complex regional planning and development challenges.
• LinkedIn

Where to Find Host Skippy Mesirow:

• Website
• Instagram

Key References and Resources Mentioned:

• [00:03:32] Mangrove Ecosystems
• [00:05:27] Afro-Ecuadorian Culture
• [00:41:47]