Episode 58 - Embracing Neurodiversity with Kathy Isaacs

Podcast Episode: Embracing Neurodiversity with Kathy Isaacs

Hosts: Dan Kerr and Kathy Isaacs

Summary: In this episode, Dan Kerr and Kathy Isaacs dive into a rich conversation about neurodiversity, focusing on autism and ADHD. They discuss their personal experiences, challenges, and the importance of self-identification and diagnosis. Kathy shares insights from her work with the Sylvia Roger Academy governance program and her involvement in various autism advocacy organisations.

Key Points:

• Diversity and Inclusion: Dan, as a diversity and inclusion ambassador, emphasises the value of neurodivergent minds in the workplace.
• Autism and ADHD: Kathy explains the intersection of autism and ADHD, noting the growing minority of autistic individuals without ADHD.
• Self-Identification: The legitimacy of self-identifying as autistic is highlighted, with Kathy supporting this approach.
• Challenges and Coping: They discuss the difficulties of masking and the importance of finding ways to unmask and be authentic.
• Empathy and Understanding: The concept of double empathy is explored, emphasising the mutual effort required for understanding between autistic and allistic people.
• Work and Advocacy: Kathy's involvement in autism advocacy through various boards and organisations is discussed, focusing on amplifying autistic voices.
• Personal Reflections: Kathy shares her experiences in palliative care and how her autistic traits helped her excel in the role.
• Special Interests: Kathy talks about her passion for sewing, Salesforce, and the joy of engaging in special interests.
• Music and Creativity: The hosts discuss their love for music that blends genres and the use of writing prompts for creative inspiration.
• Future Plans: Dan shares his plans for a live podcast event focused on the journey of autism discovery and connecting with local services.

Conclusion: The episode concludes with a heartfelt discussion on the importance of community and support in the autism journey. Dan and Kathy's conversation is a testament to the power of embracing neurodiversity and finding joy in being authentic.

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