
Think Differently with Dr. Theresa Haskins
Think Differently with Dr. Theresa Haskins is a podcast dedicated to exploring the power of neurodiversity and sharing practical strategies for creating more inclusive opportunities in work and life. Hosted by Dr. Theresa Haskins, a diversity and inclusion expert, this podcast provides valuable guidance and inspiration for leaders and individuals looking to maximize strengths and think differently to create a more inclusive world.
Latest episodes

Aug 17, 2023 • 49min
Ignite Opportunities for Exceptional Individuals
Send us a textIn a world that reveres words like "gifted," "genius," and "exceptional," the allure they cast is often accompanied by a reality of hurdles. Because the truth is that it is hard to navigate a society structured around normalized standards when you are remarkably talented in some areas yet present deficits in others.Join us as we explore the world of those who are "twice exceptional" – individuals whose exceptional abilities are matched by unique challenges. Our guest, Harri James O'Kelley, Founder of The O'Kelley Lab, shares her inspiring journey and insights into how we can create a supportive environment for these exceptional individuals to not just survive but thrive.We’ll explore the power of education, understanding, and opportunity in ensuring that the potential of "twice exceptional" individuals finds its rightful place in our diverse world. This episode will challenge perspectives and open doors to a more inclusive future.

Jul 26, 2023 • 18min
What It Takes to Be Inclusive
Dr. Haskins delves into the ongoing journey of fostering inclusivity, highlighting the essential role leaders play in creating truly empowering workplaces. She challenges common biases against neurodiverse individuals and emphasizes the need for honest self-assessment. By conducting audits and embracing diverse perspectives, organizations can identify areas for improvement. The discussion encourages a shift from surface-level representation to genuine inclusivity, inspiring listeners to commit to continuous efforts in enhancing accessibility and empowering every employee.

10 snips
Jun 28, 2023 • 52min
Breaking Barriers to Neurodiversity
Join Joy Young, a neurodiversity advisor with over 30 years of experience, as she shares her insights on embracing neurodiversity. Drawing from her journey as a parent of an autistic child, she highlights the importance of recognizing individual strengths in education and the workplace. Joy discusses the obstacles faced by neurodiverse individuals and advocates for flexible schedules and inclusive practices. With powerful anecdotes and strategies, she emphasizes creating supportive environments that celebrate diverse processing styles for everyone.

Jun 16, 2023 • 13min
How Reflection Helps Us Support and Empower Others
Send us a textIn this episode, we embark on a journey of reflection, challenging the assumptions we hold about others and exploring the opportunities to be more attuned and supportive leaders. Through personal reflections from a recent family trip, Dr. Haskins shares insights into how our beliefs and actions can either enable or unintentionally hold others back. And how engaging in reflective practice, by questioning our assumptions and challenging our beliefs, we open the door to becoming more empathetic, understanding, and inclusive leaders.

May 31, 2023 • 48min
Making Autism Allies and Advocating for Change
Send us a textJoin Dr. Theresa Haskins and special guest Marie Martin, an autism advocate, and warrior mum, in a thought-provoking episode of Think Differently. Together, they explore the power of advocacy and the importance of providing equal opportunities in the workplace. Marie Martin shares her inspiring journey of advocating for her son's inclusion and reshaping businesses' perspectives on neurodiversity. She challenges misconceptions and will inspire you to embark on a transformative journey to become a stronger, more compassionate autism ally. Turn in to discover the tangible benefits of autism inclusion, gain practical advice, and appreciate the immense potential to influence positive change that lies within us all.

May 19, 2023 • 21min
How Choice Reignites Motivation and Supports Inclusion
Send us a textImmerse yourself in the transformative power of choice and autonomy as we explore their profound impact on individuals' lives and their role in creating inclusive environments. Get ready to discover how you can harness this power to make a difference.In this episode, we challenge the traditional approach of directive control that prevails in both work and school settings. Instead, we emphasize the significance of offering choices to individuals. Drawing upon her research findings, Dr. Haskins unequivocally demonstrates the positive outcomes of increasing choice. Cooperation, inclusion, and overall success flourish when individuals are empowered to exercise their agency.We also shed light on a disheartening reality—the tendency to deprive individuals with disabilities of choice, resulting in detrimental consequences. It's time to confront this issue and recognize the importance of equal opportunities for everyone.Are you ready to step up as an agent of change? Join us in this transformative episode as we embark on a mission to revolutionize the world—one choice at a time.

6 snips
May 5, 2023 • 25min
You Can’t Have Inclusion Without Psychological Safety
Send us a textIn this episode, Dr. Theresa Haskins talks about the critical importance of psychological safety in the workplace and how it's foundational for diversity and inclusion efforts. She explains psychological safety and how it creates a healthy work environment that accommodates everyone's needs, including people with disabilities. Dr. Haskins also explores the different sources that contribute to the lack of psychological safety in teams and its negative impact on employee engagement, productivity, and mental health. This episode is a must-listen for leaders and organizations who want to foster a culture of respect, trust, and open communication and strive to create an inclusive and diverse workplace that supports all team members.

Apr 20, 2023 • 21min
Equalizing Opportunity with Executive Assistance
Send us a textThis podcast episode is a game-changer! Join us as we explore the revolutionary idea of providing the same administrative support that senior executives receive to better support autistic employees. Dr. Haskins shares her personal experience and insights on the benefits of providing administrative assistance, highlighting how it can unlock the potential of autistic individuals and increase access and inclusion in school and the workplace. This episode will inspire you to rethink who deserves support and to champion a more equitable and inclusive approach for neurodivergent individuals. Don't miss out on this thought-provoking and inspiring episode!

Apr 5, 2023 • 25min
Is Accessibility the Missing Piece to Diversity Inclusion?
Send us a textLooking to take your organization's diversity and inclusion efforts to the next level? Then tune in to the latest episode of Think Differently with Dr. Theresa Haskins where she delves into the often-overlooked topic of accessibility.Dr. Haskins discusses why accessibility is the missing piece to achieving true diversity and inclusion in the workplace. By prioritizing disability inclusion and accessibility, organizations can create an environment that welcomes and supports all individuals, regardless of their abilities or differences.Throughout the episode, Dr. Haskins answers common questions about accessibility and shares insights on how to promote accessibility as a key component of business strategy. She also highlights the importance of incorporating accessibility into all areas of an organization, from HR to operations.If you're ready to learn how accessibility can revolutionize your organization's diversity and inclusion efforts, this episode is a must-listen. Join us as we explore the power of accessibility and work to create a more inclusive and diverse workplace for all.

Mar 21, 2023 • 25min
Breaking Free from the Success Trap with Neurodiversity in Mind
Send us a textAre you tired of feeling like you don't measure up to society's narrow definition of success? In this episode, we explore the importance of recognizing and valuing individual strengths and capabilities and how conventional standards that impact the achievement and inclusion of autistic and neurodivergent individuals can be changed to create new pathways to success. Join us as we break free from the success trap and redefine value with neurodiversity in mind.