Spark Launch: Neurodiversity Ignited

SparkLaunch.org
  • 5.0 (4)
  • MENTAL HEALTH
  • UPDATED WEEKLY
Spark Launch: Neurodiversity Ignited

Welcome to Spark Launch – a podcast dedicated to exploring mental health challenges faced by neurodivergent individuals and uncovering ways to overcome them by living in our unique strengths. This optimistic series is designed to empower neurodivergents and enlighten neurotypicals about the incredible potential within us all. Hosted by Chaya Mallavaram, CEO & Founder of Spark Launch, and Mike Cornell, Peer Support Specialist, both passionate about mental health advocacy, we believe that by embracing our passions, we can navigate life's demands with resilience, joy, and authenticity. Through heartfelt stories from a diverse spectrum of guests, expert insights, and practical strategies, we aim to create a harmonious and supportive community where everyone can grow together. Tune in to Spark Launch to ignite your mind and elevate your essence. https://sparklaunchpodcast.com/ ADHD Coaching & Workshops: https://www.sparklaunch.org/ Follow Mike & Chaya on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/followshisghost https://www.instagram.com/the_sparklaunch Would like to tell your story on the show? https://sparklaunchpodcast.com/booking

  1. Passion Over Profession: A Teen Perspective on Dyslexia, Adulthood, and Happiness w/ Neel Raikar

    2 DAYS AGO

    Passion Over Profession: A Teen Perspective on Dyslexia, Adulthood, and Happiness w/ Neel Raikar

    Mike and Chaya sit down with Neel Raikar, an 18-year-old trying to plot his own course through the complexities of school life while facing the hurdles associated with dyslexia. Neel doesn't hesitate to give his candid - and very relatable - aversion to the education system and how the pressure to conform to traditional career expectations often stifles the personal pursuit of joy. We Also Cover: Learning Difficulties & Concentration ChallengesThe Need For Teaching Real-World Applications of School SubjectsBuilding Relevance and Engagement For Inclusive LearningSocietal and Parental Pressures of AdulthoodThe Importance of Challenging Traditional PathsHow Conventional Learning Methods Overlook Neurodiverse StudentsFulfillment Coming From Passion Rather Than ObligationFinding Purpose in Living For Joy Quotes: "I want to do my thing, but I want to do what my parents want me to do because I want them to be happy.""Sometimes a job is just a means to an end so you can go do the crap you like to do.""It's like, 'what do you want to do with your life?' No one ever asks, 'so what would make you happy in life?'""When you're forced to do it, it takes the joy out of learning.""We judge people by jobs so often. We're very job obsessed society." About Neel Raikar: Neel Raikar a straight-talking, school-hating, people-avoiding (you sound like me there), dyslexic 18-year-old Studying the IB program, navigating challenges with dyslexia while staying focused on academics. As always, thanks for lending us your ears and keep igniting that spark! Stay Connected: Website: https://sparklaunchpodcast.com/ADHD Coaching & Workshops: https://www.sparklaunch.org/Chaya on InstagramMike on Instagram Want To Be a Guest? https://sparklaunchpodcast.com/booking

    27 min
  2. Superpower or Struggle? The ADHD Spectrum of Experience w/ Ahmadreza Tadrisi

    DEC 12

    Superpower or Struggle? The ADHD Spectrum of Experience w/ Ahmadreza Tadrisi

    Mike and Chaya sit down with ADHD psychotherapist Ahmadreza Tadrisi to discuss how his own diagnosis sparked a desire to broaden the understanding of this neuro-type. In their talk, Ahmadreza debunks some harmful ADHD myths and highlights how the "ADHD as superpower" narrative can unintentionally marginalize those who face more significant struggles. We Also Cover: Cultural differences in understanding ADHD, particularly in IranInattentiveness without hyperactivityMisconceptions and stereotypes fueled by pop cultureSystemic failures in accommodating neurodiversity The dual nature of ADHD as strength and challenge Limiting Labels vs Empowering LabelsHow social media advice can lead to unrealistic expectations Quotes: "If we are struggling, it's because of the system. So if the systems were set up in the right way, we would be completely fine.""When you are forming an identity for yourself, things need to make sense.""The problem that we are having today is that the ones that need the most help, their voices are the ones that we hear the less.""It's very charmed to educate the public only about the positive aspects. It's more appealing and it sells better. But does it actually change the reality?""But the more and more you train yourself to listen to that intuition, that gut feeling and the way it shows up, everybody has a different way of tapping into that." About Ahmadreza Tadrisi: Ahmadreza Tadrisi is a psychotherapist with a master's in clinical psychology. Over the last four years, he has conducted over 3000 therapy and counseling sessions with more than 100 clients. His integrative, client-centered approach combines therapy and coaching, particularly focusing on Adult ADHD, inspired by his own diagnosis, and dedicated to creating a safe, inclusive space for all individuals. Connect with Adhamreza: @Ahmadrezatadrisi_ on Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/influential_therapy/ @Therapyforreal on X Ahmadreza on YouTube https://www.linkedin.com/in/ahmadrezatadrisi Related Reading: Is ADHD a Superpower?Ahmadreza's Articles As always, thanks for lending us your ears and keep igniting that spark! Stay Connected: Website: https://sparklaunchpodcast.com/ADHD Coaching & Workshops: https://www.sparklaunch.org/Chaya on InstagramMike on Instagram Want To Be a Guest? https://sparklaunchpodcast.com/booking

    41 min
  3. Level Up Your ADHD Parenting Strategies w/ Joshua Rastetter

    DEC 5

    Level Up Your ADHD Parenting Strategies w/ Joshua Rastetter

    Parenting is an intricate dance, this is doubly true when you and your child share the same neurodivergence. Joshua Rastetter returns to elaborate further on these complexities, reflecting on the frustrations of a rigid educational system that didn’t accommodate his daughter's needs, and the how this led him to rethink generations of parental strategies, opting for something more... gamified. We Also Cover: Intrinsic Motivation and Meaningful GoalsOvercoming Parenting HypocrisyAppreciating Neurodivergent Children Require Different ApproachesCreating a Cooperative Environment can Reduce Conflict and Improve LearningRecognizing the Unique Lopve Languages of Your Children to Enhance CommunicationA Gamer Approach to Parenting StylesThe Difficulties of Remote Learning for Neurodivergent Kids During the Pandemic Quotes: "And part of that was my own struggles with focus... projecting a little bit because as hard as it was for her to focus... it was just as hard, if not harder for me to focus enough to help her focus.""My mental health improved drastically when I stopped judging myself by the box that I didn't fit in.""Are we playing on co-op right now? Are we playing on Versus? It’s not my will versus your will. There’s a challenge that we need to face together." "I think as long as they're doing things in a fun way, it's fine. We don't have to get the whole picture. But unfortunately the schools today, the way it works, it doesn't satisfy an ADHD mind.""When we stop and ask, 'How do you love this person? How do you love this thing?'—that changes everything. It’s not just about the feeling but the expression." About Joshua Rastetter: Joshua brings over 15 years of experience in tech and software development to address the real and pressing challenges faced by the neurodivergent community. With a degree in Management Information Systems, Joshua combines his technical expertise and strategic insight to drive innovation and create impactful solutions. At Spark Launch, Joshua is focused on driving the company's mission to empower neurodivergent individuals through innovative and strength-based solutions. His work emphasizes creating accessible and inclusive tools that support diverse thinkers in reaching their full potential. Connect with Joshua: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jrastetter/https://www.rastetterpm.com/ Related Reading: The 5 Love Languages of Children by Dr. Gary Chapman and Dr. Ross Campbell - Book mentioned by JoshThe Explosive Child by Dr. Ross Greene - Book mentioned by Josh As always, thanks for lending us your ears and keep igniting that spark! Stay Connected: Website: https://sparklaunchpodcast.com/ADHD Coaching & Workshops: https://www.sparklaunch.org/Chaya on InstagramMike on Instagram Want To Be a Guest? a href="https://sparklaunchpodcast.com/booking" rel="noopener noreferrer"...

    30 min
  4. When The World Is Dark and Cold...

    NOV 14

    When The World Is Dark and Cold...

    Feeling hopeless amidst recent world events is a sentiment many of us currently relate to. But, as Mike and Chaya discuss in this episode, hopelessness can lead to fearlessness. We Also Cover: The cumulative impact of prolonged anxiety on mental healthFinding connection in collective struggleTransforming negative energy into activism, creativity, or supportThe role of meditation in energy and anxiety managementLove, anger, and compassion in crisis Quotes: "There has been a great many people who, in the face of unrelenting sorrow, have been able to stand up and face something that is greater than them and become greater than that thing.""Transformation happens only when you experience deep pain. That pain is so hard that the only way out is to actually become a butterfly from a caterpillar.""Love got knocked down. Love can get back up.""We have no idea what's going to happen even the very next moment, so carrying the burden of the future is unnecessary.""When the world goes dark and cold, keep your fire burning so others may know where to stay warm." As always, thanks for lending us your ears and keep igniting that spark! Stay Connected: Website: https://sparklaunchpodcast.com/ADHD Coaching & Workshops: https://www.sparklaunch.org/Chaya on InstagramMike on Instagram Want To Be a Guest? https://sparklaunchpodcast.com/booking

    18 min
  5. How I Spent (And Learned To Love) My Neurodivergent Vacation

    NOV 7

    How I Spent (And Learned To Love) My Neurodivergent Vacation

    Mike recounts his recent vacation and how it led to a profound realization about neurodiverse travel experiences. He and Chaya reflect on the pressure to conform to typical social activities and how fulfillment can be found off the beaten path by embracing your own unique itinerary. We Also Cover: The liberation of discarding societal checklistsHow being neurodivergent allows you to redefine what fun meansPermission to go at your own paceLetting go of external judgements on what you "should" doFinding tranquility in simplicityChoosing travel companions who respect neurodivergent needs Quotes: "What may seem like nothing to an allistic person is everything to a neurodivergent.""Not caring what other people may think about my version of fun, that's the big when you're a neurodivergent.""That was me living in who I am as a neurodivergent, doing what is comfortable for me.""We always are seeking for that approval, whether knowingly or unknowingly. And because we are a minority, the neurodivergent people, it's way more challenging for us to to be ourselves." As always, thanks for lending us your ears and keep igniting that spark! Stay Connected: Website: https://sparklaunchpodcast.com/ADHD Coaching & Workshops: https://www.sparklaunch.org/Chaya on InstagramMike on Instagram Want To Be a Guest? https://sparklaunchpodcast.com/booking

    23 min
  6. Heal The Collective: Indigenous Insights & Gender Equity w/ Michele Price

    OCT 31

    Heal The Collective: Indigenous Insights & Gender Equity w/ Michele Price

    Mike and Chaya sit down with Michele Price, a seasoned leadership development expert who specializes in empowering women and non-binary individuals. Through the lens of her indigenous heritage and identity, Michele shares insights on dismantling biases and the challenges women face in the current socio-political climate. We Also Cover: The evolution of leadership styles, particularly among womenSocietal changes on women's rights and representationEmpathy and relationship building in leadershipIndigenous philosophy and the community collectiveHow generational healing can transform family legacies and communitiesThe power of asking questions Quotes: "In our culture, we didn't punish people for being different. We paid attention to what the differences were in our children, and we supported that.""When you build healthy relationships with people and authentic relationship with people, leadership becomes so easy.""Life's not about hitting a home run every time. The winningest teams in baseball focus on getting on base. How are you going to get on base?""And I always remind them, yes, you have an individual journey. That's important. And it's also important for you to remember: what do you bring to the collective journey? Because it affects you." About Michele Price: With over 40 years of experience in leadership development, Michele Price specializes in guiding women and non-binary individuals through transformative leadership journeys. Drawing from Indigenous wisdom, social justice, and the GADUGI framework, they empower leaders to dismantle bias, embrace empathy, and foster holistic self-leadership. Through their podcast 'Verbal Vortexes' and newsletter, they help leaders align with their vision while navigating the complexities of collective and individual purpose. Connect with Michele: https://www.linkedin.com/in/micheleprice/https://breakthroughbusinessstrategies.substack.com/ As always, thanks for lending us your ears and keep igniting that spark! Stay Connected: Website: https://sparklaunchpodcast.com/ADHD Coaching & Workshops: https://www.sparklaunch.org/Chaya on InstagramMike on Instagram Want To Be a Guest? https://sparklaunchpodcast.com/booking

    44 min
  7. Mind The Risk: ADHD & Self-Acceptance with Jon Cunningham

    OCT 24

    Mind The Risk: ADHD & Self-Acceptance with Jon Cunningham

    Mike and Chaya sit down for an existential and suuuper ADHD conversation with entrepreneur Jon Cunningham - a conversation that is the sheer definition of "going with the flow." Together, they unravel the complexities of navigating a world misaligned with the neurodivergent experience, managing judgement, and the existential fear of failure that often plagues neurodiversity. We Also Cover: Psychological Effects of Negative Messaging During ChildhoodPositive Affirmations to Combat Automatic Negative ThoughtsIngrained Negative Self-TalkFinding Belonging in the ADHD CommunityLeveraging Unique Strengths Rather Than Conforming to Societal NormsDeveloping Personalized Systems to Help Manage Daily TasksThe Rollercoaster of Adult DiagnosisThe Unfortunate Acceptance of Disabling Aspects of Neurodiversity Quotes: "I always wonder, where were we taught to be perfect? Was it through somebody else's standards, which was not ours.""Evolution is not going to happen if we are doing the same thing, if we are always trying to fit in and not take chances.""Once we know that we've got an interest based nervous system, we know that if we are excited by something, we will follow through on it and deliver." About Jon Cunningham: Jon Cunningham is a UK-based entrepreneur and business mentor with over 20 years of experience in development, automation, and growth strategy. He is the founder of FlowFlows, a consultancy focused on helping businesses streamline their operations, particularly through tools like Asana, and improving their growth through automation and process optimization. Jon is also the founder of The Futureneers, a social enterprise aimed at supporting young people who struggle within traditional education systems by mentoring them to build self-belief and reach their potential. His work spans a wide range of areas, including business strategy, automation, and sales, and he is known for his hands-on approach with founders and CEOs, with a reputation for being an insightful problem solver with a straightforward, human approach to business challenges. Connect with Jon: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jon-cunningham/https://flowflows.com/https://thefutureneers.com/ As always, thanks for lending us your ears and keep igniting that spark! Stay Connected: Website: https://sparklaunchpodcast.com/ADHD Coaching & Workshops: https://www.sparklaunch.org/Chaya on InstagramMike on Instagram Want To Be a Guest? https://sparklaunchpodcast.com/booking

    50 min
  8. Proud To Learn Differently: Diving Deep into Neurodivergent Education

    OCT 17

    Proud To Learn Differently: Diving Deep into Neurodivergent Education

    Mike and Chaya sit down with Lindsay Rice, a passionate educator and advocate, to explore some often-overlooked complexities in the classroom. Delving into Lindsay's personal experiences as a neurodivergent individual and as a parent of neurodiverse children, she shines a light on an education system that often fails to accommodate diverse minds, and how a harrowing kindergarten experience fueled her desire to change the narrative around neurodiversity. We Also Cover: Understanding Neurodivergent Behaviors in Educational SettingsCommunication BarriersExpressing Emotions In a Safe and Constructive Way for All Student TypesRejection Sensitivity Dysphoria and Its Impact on StudentsHow Implementing Simple Strategies, such as Joyful Movement, can Benefit Learners of All AgesThe Science of Dopamine and How To Harness It In The ClassroomThe Critical Need of Discovering Your Personal Method of Emotionally Regulating Quotes: "A lot of our neurodivergent students don't have the words yet to explain what they're going through.""If us as neurodivergent adults don't feel comfortable making sure that we spread that narrative, then the same traumas are just going to be repeated.""Kids don't learn from people they don't like and from people they don't trust.""We need to make sure that we're creating spaces where kids feel seen and heard, not just managed."You can't get made fun of for something you're proud of." About Lindsay Rice: Lindsay is an experienced educator with over 11 years of teaching and currently teaches 3rd grade at Ohio Avenue Elementary School in Columbus. She’s a powerful advocate for neurodivergent learners, drawing from her own experiences with ADHD and autism, as well as being a parent to three neurodivergent children. Lindsay has presented for renowned organizations like the NEA, NSTA, and ATE, and is deeply involved in initiatives aimed at building inclusive classrooms and shaping policy to better serve all students, especially those from neurodiverse and culturally diverse backgrounds. She is passionate about preparing preservice educators to support neurodivergent scholars and is currently working with NEA’s Leaders for the Just Schools Program to further that mission. Connect with Lindsay: https://dear-neurotypical-adult.blogspot.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/lindsay-rice-2150b0199/https://x.com/lindsaymrice17 As always, thanks for lending us your ears and keep igniting that spark! Stay Connected: Website: https://sparklaunchpodcast.com/ADHD Coaching & Workshops: https://www.sparklaunch.org/Chaya on InstagramMike on Instagram Want To Be a Guest? https://sparklaunchpodcast.com/booking

    1h 7m
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4 Ratings

About

Welcome to Spark Launch – a podcast dedicated to exploring mental health challenges faced by neurodivergent individuals and uncovering ways to overcome them by living in our unique strengths. This optimistic series is designed to empower neurodivergents and enlighten neurotypicals about the incredible potential within us all. Hosted by Chaya Mallavaram, CEO & Founder of Spark Launch, and Mike Cornell, Peer Support Specialist, both passionate about mental health advocacy, we believe that by embracing our passions, we can navigate life's demands with resilience, joy, and authenticity. Through heartfelt stories from a diverse spectrum of guests, expert insights, and practical strategies, we aim to create a harmonious and supportive community where everyone can grow together. Tune in to Spark Launch to ignite your mind and elevate your essence. https://sparklaunchpodcast.com/ ADHD Coaching & Workshops: https://www.sparklaunch.org/ Follow Mike & Chaya on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/followshisghost https://www.instagram.com/the_sparklaunch Would like to tell your story on the show? https://sparklaunchpodcast.com/booking

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