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

Episode 99: Annie Crowe

Apr 11, 2025

46:38

Welcome to Episode 99!
We’re thrilled to have Annie Crow—an autistic & ADHD human rights lawyer, founder of the Neuro Access Network, and keynote speaker on neurodiversity advocacy—join us today. In this episode, Annie shares her personal journey toward embracing her neurodivergence, the challenges she’s overcome, and how she’s turned that into empowering work for her community.

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

Felt different from an early age (nickname “Princess in the pea”).
Highly sensitive to emotional, physical, and sensory stimuli.
Developed self-awareness long before formal diagnosis.

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

Formally diagnosed at 28 after years of therapy.
Noticed unique traits when starting full-time work.
Diagnosis confirmed what she had suspected all along.

JN: What challenges did you face?

Initial misdiagnosis (anxiety, depression, PTSD).
Struggled with misunderstanding and stigma.
Difficulty reconciling public stereotypes with her extroverted nature.

JN: What changes have come post diagnosis?

Embraced her autistic and ADHD identity with pride.
Shifted focus to self-advocacy and community support.
Transitioned from public service to working for herself.

JN: What challenges do you still face now?

Overcoming societal stigma around autism vs. ADHD.
Navigating the “double empathy” problem in professional settings.
Balancing complex emotions and perfectionism.

JN: What neuroexceptional strengths are you leaning into now?

Deep sensitivity and creativity as tools for advocacy.
Passion for honest self-expression and challenging norms.
Ability to debunk myths about neurodivergence and leadership.

JN: What “work” projects are you concentrating on?

Leading the Neuro Access Network.
Hosting the Princess and the P podcast on neurodiversity.
Founding Eating Disorders Neurodiversity Australia.
Keynoting on accessibility and burnout in various sectors.

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

Enjoys tech (e.g., Notion), coworking, and stream deck gadgetry.
Loves spending time with her family and her “standard poodle” Moose.
Finds balance through creative outlets and self-care.

JN: What do you do to optimise productivity during your working hours?

Developing the “pulse framework” to balance hyperfocus and recovery.
Prioritizing flexible, energy-driven work routines.
Using tech tools to remove friction and streamline tasks.

JN: What unhelpful productivity advice doesn’t work for you?

Overly rigid pacing or “one-size-fits-all” time-blocking.
Standardized routines that ignore her neurodivergent needs.

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

No strict early-morning ritual; struggles with being a night owl.
Uses a relaxed approach with gradual wake-up and flexible start.
Adapts daily plans based on energy levels and recovery needs.

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

Sleep is a constant struggle; tends to have poor sleep hygiene.
Uses her Kindle for fiction-only reading to quiet her mind.
Continuously refining her bedtime routine to improve rest.

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

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anniecrowe/
Website: https://www.neuroaccess.com.au/contact
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AnnieCroweNeuroAccess/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_anniecrowe/?hl=en

JN: Do you have any final words or asks for our audience?

Emphasizes being kind to yourself and embracing your neurodivergence.
Encourages joining her network (discount code “Power 2025” available).
Advocates for accessible, supportive environments in every aspect of life.

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