Focus and Chill - productivity tactics for AuDHDers and other neurodivergent folks

Episode 96: April Lea

Apr 5, 2025

April Lea, an ADHD founder with a background in product management and software engineering, shares her powerful journey after a late diagnosis. She discusses the challenges of masking her neurodivergence and the burnout that led to the creation of the Neurodiversity Network. The conversation delves into coping strategies for sensory overload, the balance between personal and professional life, and effective daily routines for better productivity. April emphasizes the importance of self-acceptance and community support for neurodivergent individuals.

45:08

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April Lea

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Quick takeaways

Navigating the corporate world can be particularly challenging for neurodivergent individuals, highlighting the need for more understanding and supportive workplace environments.

Curiosity serves as a powerful asset for neurodivergent individuals, enhancing their problem-solving abilities and facilitating deeper collaboration with colleagues.

Deep dives

Challenges of Late Diagnosis

Experiencing a late diagnosis of autism and ADHD often presents significant challenges for neurodivergent individuals. One key point discussed is the intense pressure to conform within the corporate world, which can lead to severe mental health struggles. The speaker recounts a pivotal moment after becoming a parent, wherein her inability to cope led to a crisis that eventually resulted in her diagnosis. This experience highlights the urgency to create supportive environments for neurodivergent individuals in the workplace, emphasizing the importance of understanding and accommodating their unique needs.

Intro

2min

Navigating Neurodiversity: A Journey of Self-Discovery

20min

Balancing Life: Insights and Strategies

13min

Crafting Productive Daily Routines for Well-Being

4min

Navigating Emotions and Self-Assessment: The Power of Targeted Questions

2min

Navigating the Struggles of Sleep: A Night Owl in a Daytime World

2min

Embracing Individuality and Compassion in Neurodiversity

3min

Welcome to episode number 96 of the Focus Chill podcast.

We’re thrilled to be joined by April Lea today. April is an ADHD founder with a background in product management and software engineering. She's passionate about removing the barriers that stop neurodivergent people from building themselves meaningful and sustainable careers.

April was late diagnosed with autism and ADHD in 2021 after spending her entire life bulldozing through walls to survive and integrate with society. When her disabilities finally caught up with her, her entire life had to change, and that is what fueled the creation of the Neurodiversity Network, an online career hub that wants to break down the barriers to meaningful careers for neurodivergent individuals around the world.

Questions:

JN: Can you tell us about your experience with neurodiversity?

April was diagnosed in 2021 after a breakdown. Her neurodivergence had been masked through sheer force of will until burnout caught up with her.
She describes the diagnosis as liberating – it explained why she felt like she was “trying to play life on hard mode.”

JN: When did you realise that you weren’t neurotypical?

She had suspected differences from a young age but normalized them.
The collapse in 2021 was a turning point, making her finally confront and explore her neurodivergence.

JN: What challenges did you face?

Constant masking, sensory overload, and struggling with corporate norms.
Misunderstandings in communication, expectations around performance, and the exhaustion of pretending to be “normal.”

JN: What changes have come post diagnosis?

She’s leaned into self-awareness, rest, and pacing herself instead of pushing through.
More compassion toward herself and openness with others about her needs.
Designed her work life around her brain, not in spite of it.

JN: What challenges do you still face now?

Sensory sensitivity, especially with lights and sounds.
Managing energy and fatigue cycles.
Dealing with the internalized shame of needing accommodations.

JN: What neuroexceptional strengths are you leaning into now?

Deep empathy and emotional intelligence.
Creative problem solving and being highly attuned to systems and processes.
Building inclusive spaces that reflect real neurodivergent experiences.

JC: What "work" projects are you concentrating on?

April is focused on growing the Neurodiversity Network, offering career coaching and resources for neurodivergent professionals.
She’s also designing group programs that help people navigate work-life alignment.

JN: How about the rest of the time? What do you enjoy doing in your off time?

Loves sensory activities like colorful lighting setups and dancing.
Enjoys resting, spending time with animals, and letting her mind wander creatively.

JC: Productivity tips – What do you do to optimise productivity during your working hours?

Works in sprints with scheduled recovery.
Uses natural lighting and sensory-friendly environments.
Focuses on tasks that align with her energy rather than rigid schedules.

JC: What is some unhelpful productivity advice that doesn’t work for you?

Hustle culture and strict time-blocking.
Generic productivity hacks that ignore neurodivergent brains and energy cycles.

JN: What does your morning routine look like and how has it evolved over time?

Avoids rushed mornings. Starts slow with tea, gentle movement, and light exposure.
Embraces flexibility and intuitive pacing over rigid plans.

JC: How is your sleep? How do you switch off at night?

Sleep is variable – she often uses calming light shows, soft music, and soothing routines to wind down.
Has learned to accept her rhythms and build in room for naps.

JN: Where can people connect with you or find your work?