Episode Transcript (provided by Riverside - forgive any errors)

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Join me for my first guest/collaboriation episode where I was interviewed by Arash Zaghi of the "Square Pegs" podcast. This is one of my favorite episdoes because Arash's vision is very much aligned with mine.

I share my journey as a neurodivergent person, reflecting on childhood experiences, educational challenges, and the importance of advocacy. I discuss how my unique learning needs were often misunderstood, highlighting the critical role of supportive environments and the value of diverse thinking in STEM fields. We also discuss the intersectionality of being Black, gifted, and neurodivergent, addressing systemic biases and the importance of community and self-acceptance. Our discussion emphasizes the need for educational reform to better accommodate non-traditional learners and calls for a holistic approach to learning that recognizes and nurtures diverse cognitive abilities.

Square Pegs Podcast is a series of intimate conversations about navigating life and learning within the neurodiverse community, hosted by Dr. Arash Zaghi, Professor at the University of Connecticut School of Engineering. In each episode, we talk to neurodiverse students and experts in the field of neurodiversity.

Episode Highlights:

00:42 Meet Sheldon Gay: host of "I Must Be BUG'N" podcast

02:18 Sheldon's early school experiences

05:37 Discovering a passion for math and science

07:53 Divergent thinking and early academic challenges

11:10 The impact of real-world applications in education

15:42 Challenges in traditional education systems

27:41 The evolution of cognitive skills

28:24 Embracing uniquely brilliant minds

29:43 Changing systems to fit diverse minds

30:27 Choosing an MBA over engineering

32:18 Innovative projects and missed opportunities

33:39 Starting the "I Must Be BUG’N" podcast

34:42 Challenges of being neurodivergent in marginalized communities

38:08 The importance of diagnosis and acceptance

47:07 Creating a supportive community

53:15 Advice to younger self

Helpful Links:

• Wait, Could I Be Gifted? The "Quiz"
• Community for Black/BIPOC Gifted Adults - Our Wild Minds
• Umbrella US - Non-profit focused on neurodivergent advocacy
• Submit your Questions or Misunderstood Insights

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