Cultivating Excellence Podcast EP 25 : Understanding and celebrating neurodiversity
Nov 5, 2025
Nicola Rose, writer and director of the film *Magnetosphere*, discusses her inspiring journey in portraying neurodiversity through a young girl's discovery of synesthesia. She shares insights on the unique manifestation of synesthesia and the authentic representation of neurodivergent characters, drawing from her own research and creative process. Nicola highlights the film's aim to reach audiences who feel different, emphasizing the importance of representation for neurodivergent youth and the emotional impact of seeing relatable stories on screen.
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What Synesthesia Feels Like
- Synesthesia blends senses so one stimulus triggers another sensory or emotional response.
- Rebecca Resnick explains synesthesia can link numbers, letters, or music to colors or feelings and relates to creativity.
Neurodiversity As Executive Differences
- Neurodiversity means brain differences in executive functions compared to same-age peers.
- Resnick frames executive functions as goal-oriented capacities like attention, planning, and self-regulation.
Different Lenses On Disability
- Neurodiversity isn't inherently disability; disability occurs when differences cause functional impairment or distress.
- Resnick recommends using medical, social, and diversity lenses to understand needs contextually.
