NeuroSpicy @ Work

Duena Blomstrom

A show to explore what being autistic in the workplace looks like today. We focus on understanding late diagnosed autism and its relationship to leadership, technology and identity in the workplace today. With as many as 1 in every 3 adults potentially being non-neurotypical, we must do away with the stigma and learn how to work with each other without disregulation and emotional suffering.

Episodes

  1. S2E3 - Neurodivergence, Kindness and Radical Acceptance - Nick Dean

    MAR 11

    S2E3 - Neurodivergence, Kindness and Radical Acceptance - Nick Dean

    Keywords NeuroKindness, autism, neurodiversity, stigma, workplace, community, empowerment, leadership, education, mental health Summary In this conversation, Duena Blomstrom and Nick Dean explore the journey of neurodiversity advocacy, focusing on Nick's personal experiences with autism and the stigma surrounding it. They discuss the importance of community support, the challenges of disclosing neurodiversity in the workplace, and the need for authenticity in leadership. The conversation emphasizes the potential of neurodiversity as an asset in business and the necessity of transforming education to better support future generations. Takeaways The stigma and shame associated with autism can significantly impact individuals.Creating a supportive community is essential for neurodiverse individuals.Nick Dean's journey from diagnosis to advocacy highlights the importance of community.Intersectionality plays a crucial role in understanding neurodiversity.Disclosing neurodiversity in the workplace remains a challenge for many.Accommodations should be viewed as empowerment, not a favor.Neurodiversity can be a valuable asset for businesses.Authenticity in leadership is vital for fostering inclusivity.Shame and imposter syndrome are common experiences in the workplace.Transforming education is key to supporting neurodiverse individuals.Sound Bites "I felt potentially it was autism.""I can't do this anymore, this masking.""We need to allow neurodiverse people to be seen."Chapters 00:00Journey to Self-Discovery: Nick's NeuroSpicy Path 05:45Understanding Neurodiversity: The Intersection of Conditions 11:20Workplace Disclosure: The Fear of Being Different 16:36The Role of Leadership in Neurodiversity 22:03Creating Inclusive Work Environments 26:56The Future of Neurodiversity in Education and Work

    42 min
  2. FEB 10

    S2E2 - Becoming Happier (while NeuroSpicy) at Work - Aoife O'Brien

    SummaryIn this episode, Duena Blomstrom and Aoife O'Brien discuss their personal journeys with neurodiversity, focusing on autism and ADHD. They explore the challenges of navigating corporate environments, the impact of masking, and the importance of self-acceptance and disclosure. The conversation highlights the need for better workplace cultures that accommodate neurodiverse individuals and the potential for advocacy within organizations. They also touch on the future of neurodiversity in the workplace and the significance of personal growth and awareness. Takeaways Both hosts have been fighting for better workplaces for neurodiverse individuals.Understanding one's neurodiversity can lead to significant personal insights.Autistic burnout differs from general work burnout and is often overlooked.The process of diagnosis can be fraught with challenges and misunderstandings.Masking can lead to a loss of identity and authenticity in the workplace.Self-improvement is a common theme among neurodiverse individuals seeking acceptance.Disclosure of neurodiversity in the workplace can be risky but is essential for advocacy.There is a need for more leaders to openly discuss their neurodiversity.The journey of self-acceptance is ongoing and multifaceted.Workplaces must adapt to better support neurodiverse individuals.Titles Navigating Neurodiversity in the WorkplaceUnderstanding Autistic Journeys and BurnoutSound Bites "I always knew I wasn't fitting into the rigid corporate world.""I can feel visceral reactions.""It's time to be my authentic self.""If we don't have authenticity and Psychological Safety, we don't have inclusion"Chapters 00:00Navigating Neurodiversity in the Workplace 02:48Understanding Autistic Burnout 05:25The Journey to Diagnosis 08:16Exploring AUADHD 11:01The Impact of Masking 14:04Authenticity and Vulnerability in the Workplace 17:29The Journey of Self-Discovery 19:59The Drive for Self-Improvement 22:17Navigating Corporate Challenges 25:13The Importance of Visibility and Leadership 28:03The Rise of the Digital Nomad 34:50Closing Thoughts on Neurodiversity

    38 min
  3. JAN 16

    NS@W S2E1 - Neurospicy Journeys through Education and Career Choices -Craig Cockburn

    Summary In the Season 2 premiere of NeuroSpicy@Work, Duena Blomstrom sits down with tech leader and neurodiversity advocate Craig Cockburn to explore the realities of being neurodivergent in the workplace. They dive into the benefits of hyperfocus, the struggles with motivation, and the importance of recognizing individual learning styles. The conversation highlights the urgent need for more inclusive environments in both education and the tech industry while shedding light on everyday advocacy for neurodiverse individuals. Takeaways Neurodivergence can be an asset in the workplace.Personal experiences shape our understanding of neurodiversity.Hyperfocus can lead to exceptional achievements when motivated.Motivation is crucial for neurodivergent individuals to excel.Customized learning methods are essential for neurodiverse individuals.Inclusive environments benefit everyone, not just neurodiverse individuals.Advocacy for neurodiversity is important in everyday life.The technology sector may have a higher prevalence of neurodiverse individuals.Finding the right learning approach is key to success.Understanding neurodiversity can improve team dynamics and productivity.Key Points Neurodivergence is an Asset in the WorkplaceThe Power of Hyperfocus in LearningSound Bites "When I'm really motivated, I excel.""It's about finding the way that works.""Neurodiversity is an asset in many ways."Chapters 00:00Introduction to Neurodiversity and Personal Insights 05:11Understanding Neurodivergence: Self-Diagnosis and Experiences 08:23The Role of Hyperfocus and Motivation in Learning 11:15Navigating Education: The Importance of Interest and Structure 14:15The Need for Customized Learning Approaches 17:26The Impact of Environment on Learning and Focus 20:19Creating Effective Presentations for Neurodiverse Audiences 23:15Advocacy for Neurodiversity in Everyday Life 26:10Reflections on Neurodiversity in the Tech Industry 29:19Conclusion and Future Discussions on Neurodiversity

    41 min
  4. S1E8 - Continuous Improvement and ADHD - Chris Stone

    12/03/2024

    S1E8 - Continuous Improvement and ADHD - Chris Stone

    In this dynamic episode of NeuroSpicy@Work, host Duena Blomstrom dives into an inspiring and eye-opening conversation with Agile guru Chris Stone, who opens up about his ADHD journey. Together, they explore how neurodiversity fuels creativity in the workplace, why medication can be a game-changer, and how fostering an inclusive environment benefits everyone. Chris shares his candid experiences with rejection sensitivity and the impact of workplace policies on neurodiverse individuals, shedding light on the power of empathy and clear communication. This episode is packed with insights and practical advice for embracing neurodiversity in professional spaces! Takeaways Chris Stone openly shares his ADHD diagnosis and experiences.Medication can significantly change the way neurodiverse individuals function.Creativity often flourishes in neurodiverse individuals when they are motivated.Clear communication is essential for supporting neurodiverse colleagues.Workplace inclusion for neurodiverse individuals is improving but still needs work.Small changes in workplace practices can make a big difference.Rejection sensitivity can be a significant challenge for neurodiverse individuals.Understanding individual needs is crucial for effective teamwork.Neurodiversity should be embraced as a strength in the workplace.People should be supported on their best and worst days.Titles Navigating Neurodiversity in the WorkplaceChris Stone: A Journey Through ADHDSound Bites "I realized my mind is quiet after the meds.""I'm limitless creative.""We are people first, employees second."Chapters 00:00Introduction to Neurodiversity and Disclosure 02:46Understanding ADHD and Medication Decisions 05:37Experiences with Medication and Mindfulness 08:29Creativity and Neurodiversity in the Workplace 11:32Fostering Inclusion and Accommodations in Tech 14:25Communication Strategies for Neurodiverse Individuals 17:05The Impact of Workplace Policies on Neurodiversity 19:44Conclusion: Embracing Neurodiversity in Work Environments

    29 min
  5. 11/20/2024

    S1E7 - From Late Diagnosis to Advocating for Neurodivergence as a Strength - David Gunter

    In this engaging discussion, Duena Blomstrom and David Gunter delve into the multifaceted realities of living and working as an autistic individual. David opens up about his deeply personal journey of self-discovery, from navigating life pre-diagnosis to embracing his identity post-diagnosis. Together, they unpack the challenges of thriving in professional spaces, the courage it takes to self-disclose, and the powerful ways autism can be reframed as a superpower. The conversation highlights the critical role of clear communication, workplace inclusivity, and community support while exploring society's evolving understanding of neurodiversity. Takeaways David was diagnosed with autism after turning 50.Many autistic individuals excel in analytical and decision-making roles.Finding a job that aligns with one's strengths is crucial for success.Autism is recognized as a disability, but it also has positive traits.Unmasking one's autism is a gradual process, not an all-or-nothing situation.Clear communication is essential for effective workplace interactions.Everyone has needs, and these should be recognized in the workplace.Building trust with employers can facilitate better working conditions.The younger generation is more self-aware about their neurodiversity.Community support plays a vital role in the lives of autistic individuals. Titles Navigating Autism in the WorkplaceThe Journey of Self-Discovery and AdvocacySound Bites "I was diagnosed after I was 50 years old.""Clear communication is key in the workplace.""Lack of disclosure is for fear or reprecussions""We all have needs, not just special needs."Chapters 00:00Introduction to Autism and Personal Journey 03:34Understanding Autism and Its Misconceptions 06:26The Role of Autism in Professional Success 09:28Navigating Challenges in the Workplace 12:14The Importance of Self-Awareness and Adaptation 15:10Advocacy and Sharing Personal Experiences 18:10Building Community and Finding Connection 20:58Redefining Autism and Its Prevalence 23:26Understanding Autism and Its Impact on Society 24:45The Importance of Disclosure and Acceptance 25:46Navigating Workplace Challenges as Autistic Individuals 28:21The Process of Unmasking and Its Implications 30:13Building Supportive Work Environments 33:54Effective Communication in the Workplace 39:43Managing Burnout and Emotional Labor 44:49Advocacy and Future Perspectives on Autism

    46 min
  6. S1E6 - Dave Grund - Living Out Loud

    11/01/2024

    S1E6 - Dave Grund - Living Out Loud

    In this intensely heartfelt and very emotional conversation, Duena Blomstrom and Dave Bulhart discuss the challenges of mental health in the workplace, particularly for those who identify as neurodiverse or LGBTQ+. They reflect on their experiences in the corporate world, the importance of emotional intelligence, and the need for a cultural shift towards accepting emotional expression in professional settings. Dave shares his personal journey from a high-pressure banking career to advocating for mental health, emphasizing the significance of understanding trauma and personal accountability. They also explore the future of work for those who are "queer", the role of technology in mental health solutions, and the urgent need for change in how we approach emotional well-being in the workplace. Takeaways Mental health challenges in the workplace are prevalent and need addressing.The journey from corporate life to mental health advocacy can be transformative.Understanding trauma is crucial for personal accountability and growth.Neurodiversity impacts emotional expression and workplace dynamics.Emotional intelligence is essential for effective leadership.Cultural shifts are necessary to accept emotional expression in professional settings.Technology can play a significant role in mental health solutions.Education systems should teach empathy and emotional management.The future of work requires embracing change and emotional connection.The mental health crisis at work is an urgent issue that needs immediate attention.Titles Navigating Mental Health in the WorkplaceThe Journey from Corporate Life to Mental Health AdvocacySound Bites "You are not your diagnosis.""If we don't do it now, then machines will replace us.""The mental health crisis at work is an emergency."Chapters00:00Navigating Identity in the Corporate World04:09The Journey to Authenticity10:03Transformative Experiences and Self-Acceptance14:10Understanding Trauma and Personal Growth20:14The Challenges of Neurodiversity in Professional Spaces26:14Emotional Intelligence in Leadership32:32The Future of Work and Emotional Connectivity36:37Innovating Mental Health Solutions

    44 min
  7. 10/14/2024

    S1E5 - Nathan Chung - Women and Neurodivergence in Technology

    In this conversation, Duena Blomstrom interviews Nathan Chung, a passionate advocate for neurodivergent individuals, particularly women in tech. Nathan shares his personal journey of late diagnosis with autism and ADHD, the challenges faced by women in the tech industry, and the stigma surrounding disclosure of neurodivergent conditions. He emphasizes the importance of empathy in advocacy and the need for organizations to adopt best practices for inclusivity. The discussion also touches on the future of remote work, the nonlinear career paths of neurodivergent individuals, and the critical journey of self-acceptance. Takeaways Nathan Chung is a passionate advocate for neurodivergent individuals.Late diagnosis of autism and ADHD can lead to self-discovery.Women in tech face unique challenges that need addressing.The stigma of disclosing neurodivergent conditions is prevalent.Remote work is becoming less common, impacting neurodivergent individuals.Empathy is essential in advocacy and support for others.Organizations need to adopt best practices for neurodiversity.Nonlinear career paths are common for neurodivergent individuals.Self-acceptance is crucial for acceptance by others.Advocacy work can be tiring but is necessary for change.Titles The Journey of Self-AcceptanceThe Fight for Women in TechnologySound Bites "We need more advocates for neurodivergent women.""The stigma of disclosure is still very real.""Remote work is slowly going away and we must stop that."Chapters 00:00Introduction to Neurodivergence Advocacy 01:50Personal Journey of Diagnosis 05:11The Importance of Community and Belonging 08:30Advocating for Neurodivergent Women in Tech 11:38Challenges Faced by Women in Tech 16:25The Impact of Remote Work on Neurodivergent Individuals 19:59Stigma and Disclosure in the Workplace 23:19Best Practices for Neurodiversity in Organizations 26:25The Future of Neurodiversity in Tech 31:20Courage and Acceptance in Advocacy

    44 min
  8. S1E4 - Angela Prentner-Adaptive Learning, Psychological Safety and Positive Discrimination

    09/27/2024

    S1E4 - Angela Prentner-Adaptive Learning, Psychological Safety and Positive Discrimination

    NOTE: This episode's video is out of sync despite our better efforts but we chose to feature its content as the discussion is important and the message too valuable to waste. In this lively conversation, Duena Blomstrom and Angela dive into their personal journeys with neurodiversity, shining a light on the importance of building workplaces that truly embrace neurodivergent individuals. They explore crucial topics like psychological safety, the hurdles of traditional schooling, and how gender intersects with neurodiversity in unique ways. With humor and insight, they unpack how cultural views on neurodiversity vary and the challenges of disclosing neurodivergent traits in different work environments. The conversation doesn’t shy away from the tough stuff—like the struggles of misdiagnosis and the gaps in the mental health system—but it also celebrates the strengths that neurodivergent minds bring to the table. They highlight the potential of technology, like the Neve Learning platform, to create more inclusive, accessible learning experiences for everyone. Ultimately, it’s a passionate call to action for organizations and individuals alike to prioritize psychological safety, drive innovation through diversity, and tear down the barriers that prevent neurodivergent talent from thriving. Takeaways Neurodiversity is an umbrella term that encompasses a range of neurodivergent conditions, and it is important to recognize and respect the unique experiences and identities of individuals within this community.Self-awareness and understanding are key to creating a better work environment for neurodiverse individuals. It is important to recognize and appreciate both the strengths and challenges that come with neurodivergent conditions.The cultural context and societal attitudes towards neurodiversity can vary, and it is important to consider these factors when discussing and addressing neurodiversity in different workplaces and communities.Disclosure of neurodivergent conditions is a personal choice and can be influenced by various factors, including cultural norms, societal expectations, and individual experiences.Creating a psychologically safe work environment is crucial for supporting neurodiverse individuals and fostering their success and well-being. Psychological safety is crucial for fostering diversity, improving performance, and driving innovation in the workplace.Neurodivergent individuals face unique challenges, including misdiagnosis and a lack of understanding within the mental health community.Technology, such as the Neve Learning platform, has the potential to create inclusive and accessible learning environments.Creating systemic change and removing barriers to education and inclusion requires collaboration between individuals and organizations.Sound Bites "Neurodiversity is an umbrella. It's meant to take in everyone.""Neurodiversity was my movement. And then I realized that my whole family is just a hot mess of this stuff.""The amount of self-awareness it allows you, and the amount of being able to put two and two together, why are you in a maelstrom of emotions? Why are you so dysregulated by the wind or the air in the car?""If you recruit those people and you do not have psychological safety in your organization, you might as well not have the diversity.""It's egos that is stopping all of this.""Through education and removing barriers to education, we can untap more of our intelligence and solve the world's wicked problems."Chapters00:00Introduction and Background01:25Psychological Safety and Psychological Concepts05:01Personal Journey and Discovery of Neurodiversity10:07The Impact of Diagnosis and Self-Acceptance13:37The Importance of Self-Identification and Privilege17:40The Growing Neurodivergent Population21:24Cultural Context and Varying Perspectives25:18The Intersectionality of Neurodiversity and Gender29:31Disclosure and Cultural Factors32:27Creating a Psychologically Safe Work Environment32:55The Importance of Psychological Safety in the Workplace36:11Challenges Faced by Neurodivergent Individuals45:16The Potential of Technology in Creating Inclusive Learning Environments52:53Creating Systemic Change and Removing Barriers to Education and Inclusion

    53 min
  9. 09/05/2024

    S1E3 - Dan Harris - Autistic families and the many nuances of adaptations of NeuroDiversity

    In this conversation, Duena Blomstrom and Dan Harris discuss the topic of autism stigma and the importance of neurodiversity in the workplace. They explore the journey of self-disclosure and the challenges faced by individuals with autism in the business world. They also highlight the need for leaders to create a culture of psychological safety and inclusivity. The conversation touches on the role of privilege and the importance of addressing the needs of neurodivergent individuals in all types of organizations, not just large corporations. They emphasize the need for societal change and the creation of neuro-inclusive workplaces for the benefit of future generations. The conversation explores the slow progress in creating inclusive workplaces for neurodivergent individuals and the need for a human-centric approach. It emphasizes the importance of understanding and accommodating the needs of neurodivergent employees to create happier and more loyal teams. The discussion also touches on the role of public policy in supporting neurodivergent individuals, particularly in education and early intervention. The conversation concludes with a call to embrace self-awareness and focus on strengths rather than hiding or being embarrassed by challenges. Takeaways Autism stigma exists in the workplace, and there is a need to promote autism pride and acceptance.Disclosure of neurodiverse identity in the workplace should be encouraged to normalize neurodiversity.Leadership plays a crucial role in creating a culture of psychological safety and inclusivity for neurodivergent individuals.There is a discrepancy between diversity theater in the corporate world and the actual support and understanding for neurodivergent individuals.The workplace needs to adapt and provide accommodations for neurodivergent individuals to thrive.Addressing the needs of neurodivergent individuals should extend beyond large corporations to include smaller organizations and different socioeconomic backgrounds.The younger generation is more open about their neurodivergent identities and demands accommodations in the workplace.Creating neuro-inclusive workplaces requires societal change and a shift in how we value and support individuals with neurodiverse identities. Progress in creating inclusive workplaces for neurodivergent individuals has been slow, and there is a need for a faster pace of change.Understanding and accommodating the needs of neurodivergent employees leads to happier and more loyal teams.Public policy plays a crucial role in supporting neurodivergent individuals, particularly in education and early intervention.Embracing self-awareness and focusing on strengths rather than hiding or being embarrassed by challenges can lead to personal and professional growth.Titles Promoting Autism Pride: Overcoming Autism Stigma in the WorkplaceAdapting the Workplace: Providing Accommodations for Neurodivergent Individuals Embracing Self-Awareness and Focusing on StrengthsThe Role of Public Policy in Supporting Neurodivergent IndividualsSound Bites "Why is there autism stigma instead of autism pride in the workplace?""I'm an autistic ADHDer and proudly so.""Leaders who are fearful to disclose their neurodiverse identities hinder the creation of neuro-inclusive workplaces.""The world hasn't, in my opinion, moved at the speed that it would lead me to believe that in another two or three years that my boys that are now entering the world of work are gonna find it prepared.""I want the question to be, how do I get the best out of you as an employee?""Good organisations are doing this already, right? The best managers you work for are those that know you inside out, that you're incredibly honest with."Chapters 00:00New Chapter 03:50Personal Journey and Discovering Autism 07:55Fear of Disclosure and Imposter Syndrome 11:15Creating a Culture of Psychological Safety 14:37Corporate Commitment to Neurodiversity 22:30The Future Generation and the Fight Ahead 25:35The Debt Owed to Neurodivergent Individuals in the Workplace 28:47Moving from Awareness to Appreciation of Neurodiversity 30:38The Need for Public Policy to Fill Gaps and Challenges 31:34Early Intervention and Support for Neurodivergent Children 32:36Recognizing and Supporting Autistic Families 33:29The Importance of Provision and Understanding Individual Needs 34:33Investing in Neurodivergent Children for Long-Term Success 35:26Unlocking the Potential of Non-Speaking Autistic Individuals 38:10Leading by Example: The Impact of World Leading Provision 41:19Recognizing the Diversity Within Neurodivergent Individuals 42:52The Power of the 'Manual of Me' in Project Teams 44:25Self-Awareness as a Life Hack for Autistic Individuals 46:55The Importance of Neurodiversity in Business for Success

    49 min
  10. S1E2 - A Conversation on Ableism and Generational Differences with Becca  Lory Hector

    08/08/2024

    S1E2 - A Conversation on Ableism and Generational Differences with Becca Lory Hector

    This conversation explores the progress and challenges in advocating for neurodiversity in the workplace. It highlights the importance of disclosure and accommodations for autistic individuals. The speakers discuss the growth of the autistic community and the need for self-awareness and acceptance. They also address the intersectionality of autism and other identities, such as race and gender. The conversation emphasizes the need for a shift in workplace culture to prioritize humanity and individual needs. The conversation explores the challenges faced by autistic individuals in society and the workplace, including the pressure to blend in and the need for accommodations. It highlights the importance of understanding and accepting neurodiversity, as well as the need for proper diagnosis and support. The concept of autistic burnout is discussed, emphasizing the need for self-care and understanding. The conversation also touches on the benefits of working with neurodivergent individuals and the value they bring to the workplace.Takeaways Advocacy for neurodiversity in the workplace has made progress but there is still work to be done.Disclosure and accommodations are important for autistic individuals in the workplace.The autistic community has grown and gained a strong voice through technology and social media.Workplaces need to prioritize humanity and individual needs to create a more inclusive environment.The intersectionality of autism and other identities should be considered in discussions about neurodiversity at work. The attitude in the world is shifting towards accepting and embracing differences, rather than expecting individuals to blend in.Autistic individuals often face challenges in society and the workplace due to misconceptions and lack of understanding.Autistic burnout is a real and debilitating experience that requires proper recognition and support.Working with neurodivergent individuals can bring unique perspectives and strengths to the workplace. Titles The Growth of the Autistic CommunityAdvocating for Neurodiversity in the Workplace The Value of Neurodivergent Individuals in the WorkplaceEmbracing Neurodiversity: Shifting Attitudes towards AcceptanceSound Bites "We took advantage of technology to build our own community, to give ourselves a voice.""If we could all unmask at work and be ourselves at work, how different would work be?""The ability to look at yourself, the self-awareness at the top is inexistent.""Nobody should be blending in anymore.""Had I not been autistic, that would have absolutely never happened to me.""I could either be non-verbal autistic and then I would get some help, or I could be super high achieving 250,000 followers influencer and then I'm not autistic."Chapters 00:00Introduction and Advocacy for Autism 04:09Progress and Changes in Understanding Autism in the Workplace 10:51Unmasking and Authenticity in the Workplace 16:02The Need for Big Changes in Workplace Culture 20:55Redefining Work and Humaneness 23:52The Role of the Younger Generation in Driving Change 27:19The Struggle to Hide Differences and Find Acceptance 28:08Understanding and Accommodating Neurodiversity 30:22The Dangers of Autistic Burnout 35:50The Strengths and Perspectives of Autistic Individuals 40:28Working with Neurodivergent Teams 51:05Late Diagnosis and the Importance of Sharing Experiences

    55 min

About

A show to explore what being autistic in the workplace looks like today. We focus on understanding late diagnosed autism and its relationship to leadership, technology and identity in the workplace today. With as many as 1 in every 3 adults potentially being non-neurotypical, we must do away with the stigma and learn how to work with each other without disregulation and emotional suffering.