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.
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
00:00Navigating Neurodiversity in the Workplace
02:48Understanding Autistic Burnout
05:25The Journey to Diagnosis
11:01The Impact of Masking
14:04Authenticity and Vulnerability in the Workplace
17:29The Journey of Self-Discovery
19:59The Drive for Self-Improvement
22:17Navigating Corporate Challenges
25:13The Importance of Visibility and Leadership
28:03The Rise of the Digital Nomad
34:50Closing Thoughts on Neurodiversity