The AuDHD Boss: Neurodiversity at Work with Brett Whitmarsh

What if a conversation between a neurodivergent and neurotypical person didn’t have to end in confusion?In this episode, I talk with Michael Daniel, the creator of the NeuroTranslator app— an AI-powered tool designed to decode and bridge communication between autistic, ADHD, dyslexic, and neurotypical minds.We explore:Michael’s late-diagnosis journey with autism and ADHDHow unmasking affected his marriage and workplace experienceWhat led him to build a communication translator for neurodivergent brainsThe impact of rejection sensitivity, burnout, and PDA in real lifeHow this AI tool is already changing relationships, workplaces, and livesWhether you're an autistic or ADHD professional, a curious manager, or someone looking to improve communication in your relationships, this episode is full of insights, compassion, and hope.📲 Download the app: https://www.neurotranslator.ai 📚 Mentioned books: Divergent Mind: https://bookshop.org/a/108800/9780062876805 📚Unmasking Autism by Devon Price : https://bookshop.org/a/108800/9780593235232📚 Unmasking for Life: https://bookshop.org/a/108800/9780593735756📱 Follow Michael on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mickydaniel?_t=ZP-8vbF10HlKEJ&_r=1 Listen to more AuDHD Boss Podcast episodes: https://brettwhitmarsh.com/audhdboss-podcast/Watch the full conversation on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W_6jstQ4qa0

What happens when you realize, years into adulthood, that you’ve been living with undiagnosed ADHD and autism? For many of us, the answer is grief.In this episode, I open up about the complex emotional journey that followed my late diagnosis—how I processed lost time, forgave myself for what I didn’t know, and began building a new future with the tools I now have.Whether you're newly diagnosed, self-diagnosed, or still figuring it out, this episode is here to remind you: you're not broken—you just needed a different way in.We’ll talk about:Why grief is a normal part of late diagnosisProcessing missed opportunities with compassionTools that helped me find clarity and calmHow I’m learning to unmask, self-advocate, and move forward✨ You’re not alone. Let’s walk through this together.🔗 More from Brett, The AuDHD Boss:🎥 YouTube: youtube.com/@audhdboss🌐 Website: audhdboss.com📸 Instagram & TikTok: @audhdboss🎧 Subscribe on your favorite podcast app for more real-talk on thriving as a neurodivergent professional.

What's the point of seeking an autism or ADHD diagnosis as an adult? I was recently asked why I would see out a diagnosis as an adult. The question being, wouldn't you have figure out coping skills by now? The questions has some ableist wrapped up in it. The short answer is, so I can get my needs met. This episode explores the impact of understanding your neurodivergence later in life, from gaining self-awareness to navigating workplace challenges. We address concerns about 'taking resources,' the benefits of self-diagnosis vs. formal diagnosis, and how a late diagnosis can feel like finally getting your life's 'owner's manual.' If you're questioning whether to pursue a diagnosis or seeking to understand late-diagnosed autism and ADHD, this episode offers valuable insights and relatable experiences. For more information or more episodes or to subscribe to my YouTube channel visit: audhdboss.com

This episode of the AudHD Boss podcast explores autistic masking and its significant impact on autistic burnout. Host Brett, who has ADHD and autism and is a corporate leader, shares personal experiences and draws on expertise from Dr. Megan Anna Neff, author of "The Autistic Burnout Workbook".Key topics covered include:Defining Autistic Masking: An explanation of what autistic masking is, including the conscious and unconscious suppression of autistic traits, mannerisms, and behaviors. Brett, referencing Dr Neff's book, discusses how masking often begins as a protective mechanism and shares his own experiences with "studying to be human" and mimicking others.The Link Between Masking and Burnout: How masking leads to a buildup of stress and exhaustion, ultimately contributing to autistic burnout. The episode explores how suppressing one's true self and needs takes a significant toll.Unmasking and Finding Your True Self: Brett discusses the journey of unmasking, drawing on author Dr. Gibson's concept (from Adult Children of Emotionally Immature Parents) of the "true self" versus the "role self". He shares his personal experience with coming out later in life as a catalyst for unmasking. The episode also covers practical techniques from The Autistic Burnout Workbook for unmasking and self-discovery, including developing interoceptive awareness and identifying sources of joy.Navigating Masking in Everyday Life: Practical advice for managing masking in various situations, including the importance of having a plan for when masking is necessary.This episode provides valuable insights for autistic individuals, those with ADHD, and anyone interested in understanding neurodiversity and the challenges of masking.📘Dr. Neff's "Autistic Burnout Workbook": https://bookshop.org/a/108800/9781507223062🔗Neurodivergent Insights (Dr. Neff's website): https://neurodivergentinsights.com👉🏼Discount code for Dr. Neff's digital tools: AUDHDBOSS 🎥My interview with Dr. Neff: https://youtu.be/DO-vcVOUFDg

In this episode, Brett, The AuDHD Boss, dives deep into the topic of internalized ableism, particularly in the context of a late ADHD and autism diagnosis. Drawing inspiration from a conversation with Dr. Megan Anna Neff of Neurodivergent Insights, Brett explores how internalized ableism can contribute to autistic burnout. He shares his personal journey, discussing the challenges of a late diagnosis and how he's worked to overcome self-doubt and societal expectations. Brett also breaks down Lindsay Mcg, Gareth's '7 Signs You May Have Internalized Ableism,' reflecting on his own experiences and offering valuable insights for listeners. Discover practical strategies for self-advocacy, unmasking, and embracing your neurodiversity.Key Topics Covered:The impact of a late ADHD/autism diagnosis.Understanding and overcoming internalized ableism.Recognizing the 7 signs of internalized ableism.The connection between internalized ableism and autistic burnout.The importance of seeking and accepting accommodations.Strategies for unmasking and self-acceptance.Resources from Neurodivergent Insights (use code 'AuDHD Boss' for a discount).Whether you're newly diagnosed or have been navigating neurodiversity for years, this episode provides valuable perspectives and practical tips for fostering self-compassion and embracing your authentic self."

Autistic burnout—how do we recognize it? What triggers it? How do we manage sensory overwhelm and work through it? In this special episode, I sit down with Dr. Megan Anna Neff of Neurodivergent Insights to dive deep into the realities of autistic burnout.🔹 About Dr Megan Anna Neff (She/They) Dr. Neff is a neurodivergent clinical psychologist, researcher, writer, and author. You may know them from their insightful infographics, powerful Venn diagrams, or their book Self-Care for Autistic People—which is how I first discovered their work. Now, they have an exciting new release: The Autistic Burnout Workbook, and I’ve already pre-ordered my copy! This is an in-depth conversation packed with valuable insights for autistic and ADHD professionalsWhat You'll Learn in This Episode:✔️ How to recognize autistic burnout vs. neurotypical burnout✔️ The top triggers that lead to burnout in autistic and ADHD individuals✔️ Masking & its role in burnout – why it drains your energy and how to minimize it✔️ The connection between burnout, depression, and executive dysfunction✔️ Practical energy management & self-care strategies✔️ Insights from Dr. Neff’s new book, "The Autistic Burnout Workbook"⚠️ CONTENT WARNING: The last five minutes of this episode include discussions on suicidal ideation and mental health challenges. If this is a sensitive topic for you, please take care while listening.📖 Pre-order "The Autistic Burnout Workbook" by Dr. Megan Anna Neff🌐 Visit Dr. Neff’s website & Neurodivergent Insights🎧 Subscribe & Listen on:🎙 Apple Podcasts🎙 Spotify📚 Resources Mentioned: 📚Self Care for Autistic PeopleBrett, The AuDHD Boss, is a neurodivergent corporate leader, content creator, and coach dedicated to helping ADHD and autistic professionals thrive in the workplace. With over a decade of leadership experience, Brett shares insights on navigating corporate life as a neurodivergent employee, offering practical strategies for success. Through engaging videos, podcasts, and coaching, they empower both employees and managers to create more inclusive and supportive work environments.For a full transcript click here:https://brettwhitmarsh.com/autistic-burnout-dr-megan-anna-neff/

Struggling to engage your ADHD employees? The secret isn’t stricter deadlines or "trying harder"—it’s leaning into their special interests. In this episode, I break down how ADHD and autistic employees thrive when their work aligns with their strengths, and how managers can foster engagement without micromanagement or unnecessary performance plans. 🔹 How to recognize ADHD struggles in the workplace🔹 Why traditional motivation tactics don’t work for neurodivergent employees🔹 Simple, low-effort accommodations that boost productivity🔹 How strength-based leadership leads to higher retention and happier teams If you're a leader, manager, or neurodivergent professional, this episode will help you rethink workplace engagement strategies. 🎧 Tune in now and learn how to turn struggles into strengths! #ADHDWorkplace #Neurodiversity #Leadership #ADHDManagement #WorkplaceInclusion #AutismAtWork 📌 Subscribe for more insights on neurodivergence in the workplace! 📢 Comment below with your experiences or questions-I'd love to hear from you! 🔗 More ADHD & Autism at Work Content: http://www.audhdboss.com#ADHD #ASD #AuDHD #CorporateLeadership 💬 Let us know what type of sensory content you'd like to see next. 📣 Have questions or topics you want me to cover? Drop them in the comments! 🎥 YouTube & Podcast Helping neurodivergent professionals thrive in the corporate workplace. 📌 Follow me for weekly insights on navigating ADHD and autism in the workplace, corporate culture tips, and professional growth strategies. 🚀 Stay Connected & Learn More:Website: https://audhdboss.com 🎧 Listen to the Podcast: • Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3w9O1H4... • Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast... 📺 Subscribe to My YouTube Channel: ⁠@AuDHDBoss 🔑 Topics Covered in My Content: ADHD in the workplace, Autism awareness and corporate challenges, Managing neurodivergent teams, Professional growth for ADHD & autistic employees, Coaching tips for workplace success 🌟 Join the Neurodivergent Professional Community and gain practical advice on self-advocacy, performance reviews, reducing anxiety, and celebrating your unique strengths in the workplace! 👉 Don't forget to subscribe, follow, and share this episode if it resonated with you!Subscribe for more content on autism and ADHD in the corporate workplace!

Feeling overwhelmed by the nonstop flood of news and information? As an autistic and ADHD professional, I know firsthand how easy it is to spiral into anxiety, especially in chaotic times. In this episode, I’m sharing strategies from my recent therapy session and my background as a former journalist on how to stay informed without feeding overwhelm. As someone with ADHD, autism, and OCD, I’ve been feeling the weight of everything happening in the world. Earlier today, I had a therapy session, and I want to verbally process some of what I learned with you before I get back to my usual content on ADHD and autism in the workplace. I’m also a former journalist, so I know firsthand that no one is supposed to take in the news the way journalists do—raw, unfiltered, and relentless. And that’s on a normal news day. Right now, the sheer volume and intensity of information are designed to make us feel overwhelmed, anxious, and emotionally drained. So how do we stay informed without burning out? Here are some strategies I’ve learned, both from my experience in journalism and from today’s therapy session. We'll talk about:✔️ How to limit news consumption in a healthy way✔️ Managing OCD and anxiety during uncertain times✔️ Prioritizing rest and reducing sensory overload✔️ Finding joy and small ways to take action✔️ How allies can support marginalized communities If you struggle with information overload, ADHD, autism, or OCD, this episode will give you practical tools to help you navigate the world while protecting your mental health. 🎧 Listen now and subscribe for more 📺 Watch the full video on YouTube: https://youtu.be/S4yW_eN0824?si=7GdcNIZ_pPKoB18z

🎙 How I Use My Autism and ADHD Strengths to Succeed at Work In this episode, I’m diving deep into how I take a strength-based approach to my ADHD and autism (AuDHD) in the workplace. As an autistic leader with ADHD and over 10 years of management experience, I’ve learned how to navigate challenges, leverage my strengths, and advocate for accommodations that help me—and my team—thrive. I’ll be sharing:✅ How I use special interests, hyperfocus, and monotropism to my advantage✅ Why communication and empathy are key strengths for neurodivergent professionals✅ How I balance workplace challenges, processing time, and change management✅ Strategies I use as a neurodivergent manager to support my team and remove barriers If you're looking for practical, real-world advice on how to succeed in your career as a neurodivergent professional, this episode is for you! 🔗 Resources mentioned: Dr. Megan Neff’s Neurodivergent Insights 🎧 Listen now and don’t forget to subscribe! If you found this episode helpful, please rate, review, and share it with others who might benefit. Your support helps spread awareness and make workplaces more inclusive for ADHD and autistic professionals. 👉 Follow me for more insights:📺 YouTube: @Audhdboss🌎 Website: Audhdboss.com📲 TikTok & Instagram: @AuDHDBoss #NeurodivergentWorkplace #AutismAtWork #ADHDSuccess #StrengthBasedLeadership #AuDHD #Neurodiversity

Are you an adult wondering, "Am I autistic? Or "you are autistic, now what?" I'm, Brett, the AuDHD Boss, here I guide you through what to do if you think you might be autistic. With over 10 years of leadership experience and personal insights as an autistic leader with ADHD, I take a strength-based approach to navigating life and work as a neurodivergent individual and I have a formal diagnosis of ADHD and autism (ASD). Before and after I received my late diagnosis as an adult, these are the resources I use every day to better understand my autism and ADHD. We’ll cover: ❓Defining autism and understanding its spectrum ❓The validity of self-diagnosis vs. formal diagnosis ❓Recommended resources, including Dr. Megan Neff's website and tools like Embrace Autism ❓Accessible self-assessment tests and books like Unmasking Autism by Dr. Devon Price ❓Workplace accommodations and tools like JAN (Job Accommodation Network) ❓Whether you're self-reflecting or seeking clarity on the diagnosis process, this video offers actionable advice, practical tools, and resources to help you thrive. ****Please note I am not a medical professional and these are suggestions based on my lived experience. This video is for educational purposes only and cannot serve as a tool for diagnosing. None of this video is sponsored. None of these suggestions are sponsored, I just really love them.**** 🔗 Helpful Links: Neurodivergent insights: https://neurodivergentinsights.com Embrace Autism: https://embrace-autism.com Job Accommodation Network (JAN): https://askjan.org/disabilities/Autism-Spectrum.cfm?cssearch=6864990_1 Book Recommendations: Unmasking Autism, Self-Care for Autistic People, How to ADHD Chapters: 00:00 Intro 0:35 What is autism 2:45 What do I do next 2:52 Neurodivergent Insights 5:40 Do I need a formal diagnosis 7:15 What are my strengths and barriers 8:19 Embrace Autism 8:40 Free Self Diagnosis Autism Tests 9:19 Paid Formal Autism Tests 10:15 AuDHD 11:12 Job Accommodations Network 13:15 Books 14:30 Subscribe 🌟 For more videos on autism, ADHD, and thriving in the workplace, hit Subscribe and join the AuDHD Boss community. Let me know your thoughts and questions in the comments!