EP206: Neurodiversity is not a Character Flaw: How to be a Brain Friend

17 snips

Mar 19, 2025

In this conversation, Kristen Pressner, a global leader in people and culture, explores the transformative journey of understanding neurodiversity, especially ADHD. She shares compelling insights on the concept of being a 'brain friend,' emphasizing empathy and strengths over deficits. Kristen offers practical strategies for supporting neurodivergent individuals at home and in the workplace, highlighting the importance of creating inclusive environments. Her personal anecdotes illustrate the impact of compassion and the value of diverse cognitive approaches.

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INSIGHT

Neurodiversity as Strength

Neurodivergent brains offer unique strengths like intense focus and quick adaptation.
These strengths are often overlooked or misinterpreted as flaws in neurotypical settings.

ANECDOTE

Pressner's Neurodiversity Journey

Kristen Pressner, an HR leader, discovered her family was neurodivergent.
This led her to create a TEDx talk advocating for understanding and support.

INSIGHT

Varied Manifestations

Neurodivergence manifests differently in each individual, making it hard to recognize.
Kristen couldn't see patterns until she understood how their brains worked.

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What happens when a seasoned corporate leader finds herself rethinking everything she thought she knew about neurodiversity? Join us as Kristen Pressner shares how unexpected insights reshaped her perspective at home and at work, changing the way she approaches challenges, relationships, and what it really means to thrive.

What to expect in this episode:

How neurodiversity manifests differently in each person
The concept of being a “brain friend” and how it fosters understanding and productivity
Practical tips for supporting neurodivergent family members and colleagues
The benefits of seeing the strengths in diverse brain functions
Ways to integrate more inclusive approaches at work and in parenting

About Kristen Pressner
Kristen Pressner is a globally recognized leader in people and culture, known for her commitment to supporting all people, the differently wired and the neurotypical. As Global Head of People & Culture for a major multinational, she has earned a spot on international lists of top HR influencers. Originally from the U.S., Kristen holds a bachelor’s and an MBA and has spent the past 15 years in Switzerland with her family. Through her TEDx talks, Kristen shares transformative insights, drawing on her extensive experience and passion for empowering others.

Connect with Kristen:

Be a Brain Friend:

Instagram: @brainfriendtedx
Facebook: BrainFriendTEDx

Related Links:

Are you biased? I am | Kristen Pressner | TEDxBasel: https://tinyurl.com/e2rn7s95
Why is it that so many people just 'can't get it together'? | Kristen Pressner | TEDxZurich: https://tinyurl.com/2muzhbyy
Neurodivergence & Children of Color: Parenting at the Intersections: https://tinyurl.com/55dm242p
Parenting with Presence: Celebrating Neurodiversity in Kids and Adults: https://tinyurl.com/yhfu7kfz
Parenting Neurodiversity: What You Don’t Know!: https://tinyurl.com/32852d85
Talking To Kids About Their Neurodiverse Brains: https://tinyurl.com/ya2dvrjj

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