Let's Talk About Neurodiversity

Join us for an insightful deep dive into ADHD, autism, and how neurodiversity shapes both personal and professional lives. We’ll explore what ADHD and autism really are, debunk common clichés, and discuss how individuals with these neurodiverse traits develop unique skills and “superpowers” that often go unnoticed.

In this episode, we delve into the complexities of ADHD and Autism, exploring how these neurodiverse conditions differ from the typical neuro-normative experience. We start by breaking down the basics: What are ADHD and Autism, and how can one identify if they have these conditions? Our guest shares their journey into understanding these topics, offering a personal touch on how they came to explore the nuances of neurodiversity.

We challenge the clichés and stereotypes surrounding ADHD and Autism, particularly in the workplace. How skilled are individuals with these conditions, and what unique abilities do they bring? Often referred to as “superpowers,” we examine the strengths and weaknesses of neurodiverse individuals through the lens of neuro-normative perspectives, shining a light on why some behaviors may be misunderstood or undervalued in traditional environments.

One of the key topics we explore is the impact of behavior-based recruiting on neurodiverse individuals. How do conventional recruitment practices unintentionally exclude people with Autism or ADHD? We provide insights on communication strategies, emphasizing the importance of understanding differences in how neurodiverse and neuro-normative people interact. This includes a look at the “double empathy problem,” which highlights the mutual misunderstandings that can arise between neurodiverse individuals and the wider world.

We also introduce the concept of “thin-sliced judgement,” where people make rapid judgments based on limited information, often to the detriment of those who don’t fit neurotypical molds. How can we reshape interviews and meetings to better include neurodiverse candidates? We discuss the importance of using open questions vs. closed questions to foster a more inclusive and supportive environment.

This episode is a deep dive into how we can better understand, value, and include neurodiverse individuals in our workplaces and beyond, with practical advice on creating a culture that celebrates diversity in all its forms.

Our Guest Speaker is Florian Malicke.

Florian Malicke is autistic, has ADHD, and has nearly 30 years of professional experience with neurodivergent individuals. Since November 2023, he has been working as a freelancer, offering coaching for adults with autism and ADHD. Additionally, he is booked for workshops, keynotes, and lectures.In his work, he speaks about neurodiversity and shares his own autistic perspective. He is passionate about raising awareness and providing easily implementable tips.

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/florian-malicke

His Website: www.autismus-coaching-rheinmain.de