I Must Be BUG'N cover art

I Must Be BUG'N

I Must Be BUG'N

By: Sheldon Gay
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About this listen

Does the world seem like it's dragging along at a different pace? Do you constantly feel like you're the only one who notices "the emperor has no clothes"? Were you constantly teased or shamed for not conforming to what's "normal"? Do you wish you had accommodations for your needs that others readily received?


If that sounds all too familiar, you might be BUGN (Black Underrepresented/Unidentified Gifted and otherwise Neurodivergent).


This is a podcast primarily for Black gifted and otherwise neurodivergent people to learn about and discuss our unique experiences. I'm also here to create a safe and empowering space for all neurodivergent people, especially those who may not officially be identified and those from underrepresented communities. My goal is to move neurodivergence from deficiency to difference and to create a space where labels don't have to feel like pathology.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sheldon Gay
Hygiene & Healthy Living Psychology Psychology & Mental Health Social Sciences
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Episodes
  • It Must Be Eugenics
    Apr 24 2025

    Episode Transcript (provided by Riverside - forgive any errors)


    Follow I Must Be BUGN on IG


    Summary

    In this episode, I discuss the recent proposal by RFK Jr. to create a database of autistic individuals, expressing deep concern over the implications of such a move. He emphasizes the importance of community, advocacy, and understanding the complexities surrounding autism and neurodivergence. Sheldon calls for collective action against systemic oppression and misinformation, urging listeners to remain vocal and supportive of marginalized communities.


    Key Points:

    • The proposal to create a national database tracking autistic people is extremely problematic
    • I acknowledge my privilege in choosing a neurodivergent label with less stigma
    • The increase in autism diagnoses is due to better awareness, not an epidemic.
    • This should be yet another reason we start taking data-privacy more seriously
    • The narrative around autism needs to be more inclusive and expansive


    Helpful Links:

    • What You Need to Know About the New Autism Data Registry
    • 2019 Study on ADHD Rates by Race/Ethnic Group
    • Background of Lebensborn
    • Hire me to speak or buy some merch!
    • Community for Black Gifted Adults - Our Wild Minds - Use code "Sheldon"
    • Umbrella US - Non-profit focused on neurodivergent advocacy
    • ND Connect - Online community for neurodivergent people
    • Submit your Questions or Misunderstood Insights


    Intro and Outro music provided by byrdversion1 - "It Couldn't Be" from the album Nevermore

    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    Show More Show Less
    34 mins
  • It Must Be My MEgo
    Feb 7 2025


    Episode Transcript (provided by Riverside - forgive any errors)


    Follow I Must Be BUGN on IG


    In this episode, I take my time really digging into the concept of ego, exploring its role in self-awareness and personal identity. I discuss the importance of understanding the ego as both a source of strength and a potential obstacle. I briefly discuss Freud while leaning much more heavily on the thoughts of Mooji and my own thoughts about how we conceptualize our Self.


    I talk a bit about psychological theories and then continue my journey by discussing the nature of consciousness, identity, and the transient nature of our experiences. I really go into the complexities of identity, authenticity, and the role of ego in shaping our self-perception. I also make sure to frame this from a neurodivergent perspective, since that significantly shapes how we see and interact with the world. At the end of the day, this is a deep and complex conversation about how to become truly aware of our true Selves so that we can not just survive but thrive through the connections we foster from a truly authentic and unmovable place that isn't bound by current or past circumstances.


    Key Points:

    • We are not our bodies or minds; they are vessels and lenses through which we experience Life.
    • Ego can manifest as both strength and obstacle.
    • Self-acceptance is crucial as we navigate change.
    • We must challenge our perceptions of Self.
    • Connection is fundamental to our existence and well-being.
    • We often see others through the lens of our own experiences.
    • Shame and guilt can prevent personal growth and acceptance.
    • We are all interconnected, and our experiences shape our identities.


    Helpful Links:

    • Mooji on "What is Ego?"
    • Annaka Harris discusses the illusion of self and free will
    • Audre Lorde - "Learning from the '60s"
    • "Ego Tripping" by Nikki Giovanni
    • Hire me to speak or buy some merch!
    • Community for Black Gifted Adults - Our Wild Minds - Use code "Sheldon"
    • Umbrella US - Non-profit focused on neurodivergent advocacy
    • ND Connect - Online community for neurodivergent people
    • Submit your Questions or Misunderstood Insights


    Intro and Outro music provided by byrdversion1 - "It Couldn't Be" from the album Nevermore

    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    Show More Show Less
    1 hr and 9 mins
  • It Must Be 2025 - Leave it and Receive it
    Feb 7 2025

    Episode Transcript (provided by Riverside - forgive any errors)


    Follow I Must Be BUGN on IG


    In this episode, I reflect on some things we need to leave in 2024 and some key things we need to make sure we're honing in on for 2025. I discuss things like patriarchy, the importance of internal validation, and the need for authentic community connections. How healthy boundaries and the power of imagination in creating new ways of being change our future? Join me as I think critically about our roles in perpetuating and dismantling oppressive systems while embracing our own power and authenticity moving forward into the new year.


    Key Points:

    • Why we must name patriarchy and accept that it harms and is perpetuated by more than "men"
    • Healthy boundaries are true game-changers for life
    • Imagining new ways of being can truly be an act of resistance and disrupt systems of oppression


    Helpful Links:

    • Lecrae interviews Jason Wilson
    • Adam Grant interviews Loretta J. Ross
    • Hire me to speak or buy some merch!
    • Community for Black Gifted Adults - Our Wild Minds - Use code "Sheldon"
    • Umbrella US - Non-profit focused on neurodivergent advocacy
    • ND Connect - Online community for neurodivergent people
    • Submit your Questions or Misunderstood Insights


    Intro and Outro music provided by byrdversion1 - "It Couldn't Be" from the album Nevermore

    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    Show More Show Less
    33 mins

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