Divergent Conversations

This discussion tackles the harmful myth that intelligence and neurodivergence are mutually exclusive. The hosts highlight how executive functioning challenges are misinterpreted as a lack of intelligence, especially for Black and Brown children facing racial bias. Personal stories reveal systemic disparities in outcomes for neurodivergent individuals. The notion that all Autistic people are savants is debunked, emphasizing the wide spectrum of autistic experiences. The conversation promotes understanding and acceptance, revealing that ADHD and Autism can coexist with intelligence.

The conversation dives into the significance of language in the Autistic community, specifically critiquing functioning labels. Hosts share personal journeys and discuss the societal pressures tied to productivity that fuel these labels. They explore how such language can provoke shame and internalized ableism, stressing the need for compassion. The duo presents support-needs-based alternatives that better reflect individual experiences. Lastly, they tackle community tensions and the importance of inclusive advocacy across varying support needs.

Autistic individuals often face misconceptions about their social desires. The hosts explore the nuanced relationship between wanting connection and sensory overload. Using plant metaphors, they discuss varying social needs and how rhythm impacts friendships. They highlight the challenges of initiating connections when capacity is low and delve into the rewarding aspects of shared neurotype interactions. Authenticity in communication helps ease relational friction, while the importance of depth in relationships is emphasized for meaningful connections.

In this conversation, Jan Coplan, Senior Director at Landmark College, shares her expertise on transitioning neurodivergent individuals into the workforce. She emphasizes the unique barriers they face, such as inaccessible application processes and the challenge of masking during interviews. Jan discusses innovative, low-cost accommodations employers can implement, including flexible interview formats and supportive hiring practices. The dialogue highlights the importance of neurodiversity as a strength, urging employers to reconsider traditional recruitment methods for a genuinely inclusive workplace.

Discovering you're Autistic or ADHD as an adult can turn your whole sense of self upside down. Navigating the emotional aftermath—wondering, "Am I still me?"—often brings up more questions than answers, and can feel both destabilizing and deeply transformative.In this episode, Patrick Casale and Dr. Megan Anna Neff, two AuDHD mental health professionals, discuss the post-diagnosis identity spiral that so many neurodivergent people encounter. They break down the emotional complexities of life after self-discovery or diagnosis, exploring questions of authenticity, the role of masking, the impact of imposter syndrome, and how claiming a neurodivergent identity can shift relationships, careers, and even self-advocacy.Top 3 reasons to listen to the entire episode:Unpack how coming to terms with an Autism or ADHD diagnosis can impact your sense of self, relationships, career, and community—plus, get insight into navigating the uncertainty and self-doubt that often arise after discovery.Learn why it’s common to experience imposter syndrome, emotional overwhelm, and a desire to "map" every experience to a diagnosis—and how to find reassurance and clarity in the midst of this complexity.Hear Patrick and Megan Anna’s honest reflections on their own journeys, including how health events, career changes, and intersecting identities complicate (and enrich) the process of integrating a new neurodivergent identity.If you’re asking yourself who you are after discovering you’re neurodivergent—or supporting someone through this kind of identity spiral—this episode offers validation, practical insights, and the reminder that you’re not alone on this journey.————————————————————————————————🎙️Listen to more episodes of the Divergent Conversations Podcast🎙️Spotify🎙️Apple🎙️YouTube Music▶️ YouTube💬 Join Divergent Conversations Underground————————————————————————————————Thanks to Our Sponsors: Jane✨ Jane:Jane is a practice management software and EMR that helps you balance caring for clients while growing your business. Co-founded by a multidisciplinary clinic owner and a developer with an eye for design, it’s built to fit the way that you work, supporting your practice as it grows and evolves. Jane helps with day-to-day admin, like scheduling, documentation, and billing, so you can stay focused on the care you give. Jane was built with clients in mind, too. With online booking and secure online appointments (telehealth), your care stays accessible and easy to keep up with.To learn more about Jane, book a demo for a one-on-one, no-pressure chat with a lovely member of their team. Or, if you’re ready to sign up, enjoy a 2-month grace period on your new account with code DCPOD.Sign up here: janesoftware.partnerlinks.io/divergentconversations✨ Neurodivergent Insights Autistic Burnout ResourcesIf you’d like to supplement your learning on burnout, you can check out Neurodivergent Insights' resources on burnout. We have articles, an Autistic Burnout course, workbooks, and print books! Visit: neurodivergentinsights.com/burnout-resources————————————————————————————————💬 Join Divergent Conversations UndergroundDivergent Conversations Underground is a space for messy conversations, real connection, and unfinished thoughts in a neurodivergent-affirming community. If you’d like to go deeper with us into more nuanced, searching conversations, join here: divergentconversations.substack.com————————————————————————————————Mentioned in this episode:Neurodivergent Insights' Autistic Burnout ResourcesIf you’d like to supplement your learning on burnout, you can check out Neurodivergent Insights' resources on burnout. We have articles, an Autistic Burnout course, workbooks, and print books! Visit: https://neurodivergentinsights.com/burnout-resourcesJaneJane is a clinic management software and EMR designed to be an extra set of helping hands in your health and wellness business. Available online and on any device, Jane has branded online booking, scheduling, insurance billing, customizable documentation templates and online forms, integrated payments, telehealth, and more — wrapped up in one beautiful package that even your patients/clients will love. Backed by our unlimited human support available by phone, email, and chat (even on Saturdays!), Jane is here to help you get back to the work you love. Get 2 months off new Jane subscriptions when you use code DCPOD at signup. Visit: https://janesoftware.partnerlinks.io/divergentconversations

Exploring the emotional rollercoaster of discovering ADHD in adulthood, the conversation dives into the challenges and complexities of identity shifts. Personal anecdotes highlight how ADHD reshapes relationships and self-perception, offering insights on impulsivity, marital strain, and the interplay of stability and novelty in partnerships. The discussion addresses internalized shame, misconceptions surrounding ADHD and Autism, and practical accommodations for neurodivergent individuals. A candid look at the lifelong journey of self-acceptance and navigating dual-neurotype identities adds depth to this enlightening dialogue.

Dive into the emotional journey of rediscovering oneself after an Autism or ADHD diagnosis. The hosts share powerful 'aha' moments that shift perspectives on past relationships and missed cues. Expect candid discussions on dating misfires and the complexities of friendship, alongside heartfelt apologies. They explore childhood memories and sensory experiences that shaped their lives, unpacking how understanding these elements can foster personal growth. Join the conversation about repairing relationships and embracing self-compassion in this enlightening exploration.

In this engaging discussion, neuropsychologist Dr. Donna Henderson, co-author of 'Is This Autism?' dives into the complexities of autism diagnoses. She challenges the notion of an 'epidemic,' highlighting how improved awareness and diagnostic practices contribute to rising numbers. Dr. Henderson emphasizes the power of language in shaping perceptions and the stigma faced by autistic individuals. The conversation reveals the importance of accurate representation and the evolving understanding of neurodiversity, making a compelling case for compassion and acceptance.

The discussion dives into the emotional journey of discovering one’s neurodivergent identity, highlighting both the relief and uncertainty that comes with it. Insights on formal diagnosis versus self-identification reveal the importance of inclusive language and community support. The speakers share personal anecdotes about navigating neurodivergent traits and the challenges of accessing assessments. Barriers like stigma and systemic hurdles are examined, alongside practical advice for accommodations and the implications of disclosure in various settings.

Dr. Mel Houser, an Autistic family physician and founder of All Brains Belong VT, dives into the complexities of Autistic burnout. The discussion highlights how mitochondrial dysfunction and post-exertional malaise (PEM) manifest at a cellular level, impacting energy regulation. Dr. Houser emphasizes the importance of pacing, sensory adjustments, and understanding underlying health issues that often go undiagnosed. Listeners gain practical strategies for managing chronic fatigue and insights into the vital interplay between mental health and physical well-being.