Summary
In 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.
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Titles

• Navigating Neurodiversity in the Workplace
• Understanding Autistic Journeys and Burnout

Sound 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

00:00
Navigating Neurodiversity in the Workplace

02:48
Understanding Autistic Burnout

05:25
The Journey to Diagnosis

08:16
Exploring AUADHD

11:01
The Impact of Masking

14:04
Authenticity and Vulnerability in the Workplace

17:29
The Journey of Self-Discovery

19:59
The Drive for Self-Improvement

22:17
Navigating Corporate Challenges

25:13
The Importance of Visibility and Leadership

28:03
The Rise of the Digital Nomad

34:50
Closing Thoughts on Neurodiversity