Cherie Clonan, Founder and CEO of The Digital Picnic, is transforming the landscape of digital media and workplace culture. Guided by her own late diagnosis and idenitification as an Autistic PDA woman, she's pioneering a new standard for workplaces that empower neurodivergent individuals to succeed on their terms.

In episode 49 of Classroom 5.0, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Cherie, to hear first hand how she's implementing everyday leadership practices and workplace policies that reflect her deep understanding of what it takes for neurodivergent individuals to thrive.

While traditional narratives frame PDA as an anxiety-driven response to everyday demands, Cherie, like me, challenges this reductionist view. Instead, she describes PDA as a complexity of her neurobiological wiring that fuels her creativity, autonomy, and fierce sense of justice.

I found myself wiping away tears and roaring with laughter as Cherie shared personal and professional anecdotes that vividly captured the fierce determination, creative problem-solving, and sharp humor that embody the strengths of PDA, and highlight her unstoppable drive as a leader fostering inclusive impact and innovation.

Learn more about Cherie, watch the full interview on YouTube, and explore the resources discussed by visiting the episode page here: https://www.marianepower.com.au/blog/49

If you liked this episode, please share it with a friend, or take a minute to rate and review on your favouritie podcasting platform!

Conversation Highlights:

00:00 Introduction and Origin Story

02:27 Understanding Neurodiversity and Late Diagnosis

05:20 Unmasking and Leadership

08:07 Creating a Psychologically Safe Workplace

11:21 The Dance of Authenticity and Boundaries

13:31 Masking vs. Compensation Strategies

16:39 Exploring Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA)

27:06 Embracing PDA Leadership

30:32 Radical Inclusion in the Workplace

37:48 Creativity and Flow in Neurodivergent Teams

44:16 Impact Mindset and Legacy

Connect with Mariane:

IG : ‪@marianepower‬

LinkedIn @marianepower

www.marianepower.com.au

Just 11 days before her life-altering stroke, Gillian Coutts and I had shared the stage at The Thriving Workplace event in Sydney. I was captivated by her charisma, profound insights into applied positive psychology, and unwavering dedication to help others unlock their full potential back then, and remain as inspired by her positive force in the world today.

Over the past two years, Gillian has embarked on an extraordinary journey of rehabilitation, with her family and good friend and professional colleague, Jenny Steadman right by her side. Each day, she is learning to integrate her former identity with the realities of her new one, which as a result of her stroke, is shaped by acquired physical limitations and cognitive differences.

In this episode of the NeuroPEAK series, I had the privilege of sitting down with Gillian and Jenny, who has recently shifted into the role of National Director of The Potential Project, a role she'd previously shared with Gillian. Together, they candidly explored what it has been like to navigate these profound changes, offering insights into the transformative power of vulnerability in leadership, the importance of self-awareness, and the invaluable role of love and connection in navigating life's toughest challenges.

To read further, follow the transcript and gain links to today's resources, visit the episode webpage - https://www.marianepower.com.au/blog/48

If you liked this episode, please share it with a friend, or take a minute to rate and review on your favouritie podcasting platform!

Conversation Highlights:

• How The Potential Project is shaping a more human world of work.

• The story of Jenny and Gillian's enduring friendship and its role as a source of strength in challenging times.

• How Gillian's stroke has reshaped her perspective on love, relationships, and leadership.

• The power of "wise optimism": accepting reality while moving forward with hope and intentional action.

• Why navigating change requires emotional agility and self-awareness.

• The role of compassion in modern leadership and workplace culture.

• How AI can complement, rather than replace, human qualities.

• The importance of inclusive workplaces in fostering connection and well-being.

• Why celebrating small achievements builds resilience.

• Gillian and Jenny's reflections on what makes life truly meaningful

Connect with Mariane:

IG : ‪@marianepower‬

LinkedIn @marianepower

www.marianepower.com.au

In episode 47 of Classroom 5.0, I sat down with A/Professor Dr. Shohreh Majd, an expert in neuroscience, to explore what's happening "under the hood" of our neurodivergent brains and bodies. Shohreh shared her insights around the biological basis of our strengths and struggles, and we riffed together on practical strategies that help apply this understanding to help us thrive.

For links to resources discussed on today's episode, see the podcast show notes here - www.marianepower.com.au/blog/47

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Key Chapter Highlights:

• The Brain and Neurotransmitters
• Understanding Dopamine and its Role
• Hormones and Women's Cognitive Function
• Adjustment and Strategies for Brain Health
• Exercise and Mental Activity for Brain Health
• Establishing and Maintaining Healthy Practices and The Role of Support
• Preventative Measures for Managing Stress and Burnout
• The Power of Self-Awareness and Pausing
• Helping Others and Creating a Meaningful Life

Connect with Mariane:

IG : ‪@marianepower‬

LinkedIn @marianepower

www.marianepower.com.au