Neurodiversity with Theo Smith Theo Smith

In this episode, Theo Smith interviews Alice, a researcher at Bocconi University, about her experience with neurodiversity.

Alice shares her journey from childhood to academia, highlighting her strengths in brain power and the challenges of control mania.

She discusses the impact of migraines and the realization of her neurodivergence, leading to an autism diagnosis.

Alice also explores the difficulties of getting diagnosed in Italy and the unique challenges faced by neurodivergent individuals in academia.

She emphasizes the need for multidisciplinary research in neurodiversity and shares her current projects at Bocconi University.

In this conversation, Alice discusses her research and experiences in academia. She shares insights into the challenges and rewards of conducting research in the field of gender studies.

Alice also highlights the importance of intersectionality and the need for more research in underrepresented areas.

She concludes by providing her contact information for those interested in connecting with her.



Takeaways


Neurodivergent individuals often excel in academia due to their unique strengths and passion for research.
The academic environment can be challenging for neurodivergent individuals, with blunt feedback and a competitive publishing process.
There is a need for multidisciplinary research in neurodiversity to gain a holistic understanding of its impact.
Getting diagnosed with neurodivergent conditions can be difficult in some countries, highlighting the need for improved access to assessments.
Academia should strive for inclusivity and understanding to support the diverse needs of neurodivergent researchers.

Chapters

00:00Introduction to Neurodiversity and Guest Introduction

01:06Guest's Background and Work at Bocconi University

02:36Early Years and Strengths in Brain Power

05:38Control Mania and the Cost of Overworking

07:07Migraines and the Need for Breaks

08:48Realization of Neurodivergence and Autism Diagnosis

10:51Challenges of Getting Diagnosed in Italy

14:28The Impact of Neurodiversity in Academia

24:49Transition from PhD to Research Role in Academia

30:22Challenges in Academia: Blunt Feedback and Publishing Process

38:49The Need for Multidisciplinary Research in Neurodiversity

50:15Current Work and Projects at Bocconi University

52:35Conclusion and Contact Information



This episode is supercharged by Dynamis Group

https://dynamisgroup.com/

You can buy Amanda and Theo's book 'Neurodiversity At Work here:

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Neurodiversity-Work-Performance-Productivity-Neurodiverse/dp/1398600245

Love the intro music... it's from a past guest High Contrast: Music is Everything

#NeurodiversityAtWork #Neurodiversity #ADHD

Today we're joined by David Renton, a security compliance project manager at Genesys. In our conversation, we explore David's journey through the lens of ADHD and dyslexia, from his early education to carving out a career that plays to his strengths.

David shares the pivotal moments that shaped his understanding of neurodiversity, emphasising the power of open conversations and the significance of finding one's balance.

He champions inclusive workplaces and the role of mentorship in fostering growth and understanding in both personal and professional realms.

Dive into this enlightening and heartfelt discussion with us as we uncover the impact of embracing neurodiversity at work and beyond.



Chapters:

[00:03] Welcome to the podcast "Neurodiversity at Work" hosted by Theo Smith. Today's guest is David Renton, a security compliance project manager at Genesys, originally from Dublin, Ireland.



[02:28] David shares his journey with ADHD and dyslexia, starting from his schooling years.



[07:00] David discusses his career transitions and the challenges he faced in finding a job that aligned with his strengths and interests.



[09:12] David talks about how his mindset and understanding of himself improved during his university studies, making math easier for him.



[10:19] David emphasizes the importance of open and honest conversations and the need for more discussions around neurodiversity.



[15:32] David shares a personal experience with dyslexia during a school reading and reflects on the impact of neurodivergence in the classroom.



[23:40] David discusses the importance of finding balance in life and shares his two rules to live by.



[31:18] David suggests creating inclusive workplaces that support families and involve them in company events.



[40:11] David highlights the importance of mentorship and encourages seeking guidance from respected individuals.



[42:23] David and Theo discuss the transformative power of mentorship and the impact it can have on individuals' lives.



[43:49] Theo thanks David for being a guest on the podcast and encourages listeners to engage with the show.



Love the intro music... it's from a past guest High Contrast: Music is Everything



Follow our youtube page here:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCLoGgd4xWiX4AASjn6p3hMA

Tania Martin, EY UKI’s Neuro-Diverse Centre of Excellence Leader, shares her journey and the work being done to promote neurodiversity and neuroinclusion in the workplace.

The conversation covers the shift from autism at work to neuro-inclusive programs, the evolution of neurodiverse centers of excellence, and the importance of breaking down barriers to entry and supporting hidden neurodivergent individuals.

Tania also discusses the changes made to the recruitment process, the impact of her ADHD diagnosis on her personal and professional life, and the need for self-acceptance and self-kindness.

The conversation concludes with insights into the recruitment process and opportunities for improvement.

Takeaways


The shift from autism programs to neuro-inclusive programs is essential to support a broader range of neurodivergent individuals in the workplace.
Breaking down barriers to entry and supporting hidden neurodivergent individuals are crucial aspects of neurodiversity initiatives.
The recruitment process should be adapted to be more inclusive and accessible, with a focus on building psychological safety for neurodivergent candidates.
Self-acceptance and self-kindness are important for individuals with neurodivergent conditions, and organisations should create an environment that supports and values neurodiversity. The way content is presented and the partners chosen can greatly impact the success of neurodiversity recruitment efforts.
Sensitivity and representation are crucial to avoid marginalisation and stigmatisation.
Learning from D&I leaders and their experiences can provide valuable insights for neuroinclusive recruitment.
Consistency and budget investment are necessary to achieve long-term success in neurodiversity initiatives.
Educating others and promoting widespread understanding of neurodiversity can lead to a greater impact.
Starting small, testing, and piloting initiatives can be an effective approach to implementing neurodiversity recruitment strategies.
Neuro-inclusion is not only important for business performance but also for our social responsibility to create a better future for all.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background

02:05 Shifting from Autism Programs to Neuro-Inclusive Programs

03:30 Positive Shift in Neurodiversity Approach

04:27 Evolution of Neurodiverse Centers of Excellence

05:25 Breaking Down Barriers to Entry and Hidden Neurodivergent Individuals

06:24 Changing the Recruitment Process

07:20 Investment in Talent Acquisition and Neurodiversity

09:01 Anti-Recruitment Process and Innovation

10:56 Recognition and External Validation

11:54 Personal Journey and Understanding of ADHD

12:39 Challenges and Opportunities in Career

17:05 Impact of Diagnosis on Self-Acceptance and Self-Kindness

20:58 Journey to Neurodiversity Centre of Excellence

32:07 Recruitment Process and Building Psychological Safety

48:19 Learnings and Opportunities for Improvement

51:57 The Importance of Content Presentation

52:27 The Impact of Partner Selection

53:08 Sensitivity and Representation

54:09 Learning from D&I Leaders

55:06 Consistency and Budget Investment

56:07 Educating Others for Greater Impact

57:00 Advice for Starting the Journey

59:36 The Social Responsibility of Neuro-Inclusion

Follow Tania here:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/taniafmartin/



Learn more about EY NCOE here:

https://www.ey.com/en_uk/news/2021/07/ey-launches-first-neuro-diverse-centre-of-excellence-in-the-uk-to-boost-client-innovation


This episode is supercharged by Dynamis Group

https://dynamisgroup.com/

Love the intro music... it's from a past guest High Contrast: Music is Everything

In this episode, Theo Smith interviews Sasha Frank, a stand-up comedian who is ADHD. Sasha shares her journey from the corporate world to comedy, the impact of ADHD on her life, and her experiences with medication.

She also discusses parenting as an ADHD individual and the therapeutic benefits of comedy. Sasha emphasises the importance of embracing differences and being transparent about one's challenges.

Takeaways


Embrace your differences and don't worry about conforming to societal norms.
Transparency and open communication about your experiences can lead to understanding and support from others.
Find a hobby or outlet that brings you joy and helps you manage your mental health.
Parenting as an ADHD individual may require finding alternative ways to engage with your child and manage daily routines.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Sasha Frank

03:03 Early Life and Career

08:50 Discovering Stand-up Comedy

10:45 Realizing the Connection to ADHD

14:51 Understanding Strengths and Challenges

18:02 Managing Responsibilities and Dual Life

20:12 Experiences with ADHD Medication

25:50 Parenting as an ADHD Individual

29:07 Comedy as an Outlet

33:47 Embracing Differences and Transparency

https://www.imdb.com/name/nm12947303/?ref_=ext_shr_lnk



This episode is supercharged by Dynamis Group

https://dynamisgroup.com/

You can buy Amanda and Theo's new book 'Neurodiversity At Work here:

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Neurodiversity-Work-Performance-Productivity-Neurodiverse/dp/1398600245

Love the intro music... it's from a past guest High Contrast: Music is Everything

#NeurodiversityAtWork #Neurodiversity #ADHD

Podcast Episode with Guest Andrew McDonald: Embracing Neurodiversity in the World of Copywriting

Main Theme: Navigating the challenges and unique strengths of neurodiverse individuals in the professional world.

Episode Highlights:


Introduction: Andrew McDonald, a renowned neurodivergent copywriter, delves deep into the importance of understanding and marketing to neurodivergent audiences.


A Journey to Freedom: Andrew's candid recount of his journey, from a stifling toxic work environment to the liberating world of freelance writing. Although he found success as a copywriter, business growth wasn't without its challenges.


Neurodiversity in the Workspace: Neurodiverse individuals often grapple with a world designed for neurotypical minds. Andrew reflects on his personal struggles, including confronting past traumas and facing the cold, often impersonal world of emailing.


The Power of Relationship-building: Highlighting the significance of fostering genuine relationships, Andrew underscores the importance of outreach and community-building as pivotal to a thriving business. Theo Smith, our host, echoes this sentiment, advocating for authentic connections over cold outreach.


Networking Nuances for the Neurodiverse: Theo shares his own challenges with maintaining energy at networking events. In response, Andrew offers practical solutions like the potential of adding value through engaged LinkedIn comments and automating email content to combat burnout.


The Neurodiverse Community: Both Theo and Andrew stress the advantages of connecting with niche communities, leveraging unique strengths to resonate with audiences on platforms like LinkedIn. They discuss how neurodiverse individuals naturally foster rapid and genuine connections, often diverging from conventional networking norms.



Closing Note: Discover how neurodiverse communities are challenging the status quo, advocating for inclusivity, and leading with authenticity in a world where difference is strength. Dive into this engaging conversation between Theo Smith and Andrew McDonald to learn more.





This episode is supercharged by Dynamis Group

https://dynamisgroup.com/

You can buy Amanda and Theo's new book 'Neurodiversity At Work here:

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Neurodiversity-Work-Performance-Productivity-Neurodiverse/dp/1398600245

Love the intro music... it's from a past guest High Contrast: Music is Everything

#NeurodiversityAtWork #Neurodiversity #ADHD

In today's conversation, Theo sits down with the incredible Shey Ojedokun, a passionate advocate for neurodiversity and the author of "Black and Neurodiverse." 📚

Join us as Shey shares her journey of late diagnosis, resilience, and self-discovery in a world that often misunderstands neurodiversity. Get ready to be inspired and gain new perspectives on the unique strengths that neurodivergent individuals bring to the table.

Tune in now and embark on a transformative exploration of neurodiversity! 🌟


This weeks episode includes:


Introduction to the Guest (0:00 - 1:50): Theo Smith introduces Shey Ojedokun, the guest, and sets the stage for the discussion on neurodiversity.


Late Diagnosis and Identifying with Neurodiversity (1:50 - 7:22): Shey discusses her late diagnosis of dyslexia, dyspraxia, and dyscalculia and how these neurodivergent traits affect her daily life. She reflects on how she initially saw them as weaknesses but now embraces them as strengths.


Barriers to Early Diagnosis (7:22 - 10:30): Shey talks about potential barriers to early diagnosis, including lack of awareness, school communication, and cultural factors.


Transition from Education to Career (10:30 - 16:45): Shey shares her transition from studying marketing at university to working in marketing roles. She highlights challenges she faced in administrative tasks but emphasizes her strengths in creativity and communication.


Strengths and Challenges in the Workplace (16:45 - 23:20): Shey discusses how she found her strengths, particularly in verbal communication and pitching, despite challenges with writing and organization. She also mentions the importance of onboarding and additional support.


Discovering Co-Occurrence (23:20 - 27:05): Shey and Theo discuss the concept of co-occurrence in neurodiversity and how it can lead to a better understanding of one's unique neurodivergent traits.


Motivation for Writing the Book (27:05 - 32:10): Shey shares her inspiration for writing the book, particularly driven by her niece's potential neurodiversity and the lack of literature addressing neurodiversity within the African and Caribbean communities.


Book's Focus and Goals (32:10 - 36:45): Shey discusses the two key chapters in her book: "Light at the End of the Tunnel" and "My Superpower." She aims to provide encouragement, upliftment, and education to readers.


Challenges of Misunderstanding (36:45 - 41:45): Shey and Theo talk about the challenges of misunderstanding and lack of awareness surrounding neurodiversity, both within and outside communities.


The Impact of Sharing Personal Stories (41:45 - ): Theo acknowledges the importance of sharing personal stories to educate and create change, and he applauds Shey for her resilience and contribution to the field of neurodiversity.



And we hear more on Shey, how to connect with her and order her book.




This episode is supercharged by Dynamis Group

https://dynamisgroup.com/

You can buy Amanda and Theo's new book 'Neurodiversity At Work here:

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Neurodiversity-Work-Performance-Productivity-Neurodiverse/dp/1398600245

Love the intro music... it's from a past guest High Contrast: Music is Everything

#NeurodiversityAtWork #Neurodiversity #ADHD