The AuDHD Boss: Neurodiversity at Work with Brett Whitmarsh

When an employee shares that they have ADHD or autism, how should a manager respond? What words build trust, and what words damage it?In this episode, Brett — The AuDHD Boss — shares a manager’s guide to responding with empathy, professionalism, and support when someone discloses ADHD or autism at work. Drawing on 12+ years of leadership experience as an autistic manager with ADHD, Brett breaks down:✅ What to say (and what NOT to say) when employees disclose ADHD or autism✅ Why every ADHD and autistic experience is unique — and why curiosity matters✅ Common mistakes managers make that harm trust and productivity✅ How simple accommodations can improve performance for everyoneThis episode is both a guide for managers and a resource for employees who want to share this with their bosses or HR teams. If you’re working toward a more inclusive workplace, this conversation will help.🌐 More from Brett:Website → audhdboss.comSubstack → brettwhitmarsh.substack.comYouTube → YouTube.com/@audhdboss

Stepping into management as an autistic professional with ADHD brought a unique mix of strengths—and a lot of anxiety. In this episode, I share my personal story of transitioning from individual contributor to manager, and how I faced professional anxiety, imposter syndrome, and the fear of letting others down.We’ll explore:Why new managers often feel overwhelmed by expectationsThe push-and-pull between micromanaging and letting goHow mentorship helped me move past defensiveness and imposter syndromePractical tools I use to reduce professional anxiety as an autistic leader with ADHDIf you’ve ever felt like you weren’t “good enough” to lead, or you’re navigating management while neurodivergent, this conversation is for you.👉 Subscribe for more real stories and strategies on leadership, ADHD, and autism in the workplace.Links:Newsletter + blog: brettwhitmarsh.substack.comCoaching + resources: audhdboss.comWatch on YouTube: Audio BossADHD in the workplaceAutism in the workplaceAutistic bossADHD leadershipAutistic leadershipImposter syndrome at workProfessional anxietyNew manager anxietyNeurodivergent managerADHD career growthAutism career growthAuDHD bossCorporate leadership strategiesMentorship and managementOvercoming workplace anxietyNeurodiversity at workLeadership for ADHD professionalsLeadership for autistic professionals

In this episode, I share my journey of coming out as queer and how it unexpectedly became the beginning of unmasking my autistic and ADHD identity. From growing up in a high-control religious environment to finding safety in the workplace, I talk about the challenges of masking, the fear of showing my true self, and the deep relief of self-acceptance.You’ll hear how coming out helped me step into authenticity, what it taught me about masking and energy, and why creating safe spaces at work matters for neurodivergent professionals.If you’ve ever struggled with masking, people-pleasing, or hiding parts of yourself, this conversation is for you.👉 Don’t forget to subscribe to The AuDHD Boss for more episodes on ADHD, autism, and thriving as a neurodivergent professional.📚 Resources mentioned in this video:Dr Neff's The Autistic Masking Workbook (from Neurodivergent Insights.com) *****USE CODE AUDHDBOSS***** FOR A DISCOUNT ON THE WORKBOOK more here: https://neurodivergentinsights.com/autistic-masking/autistic-masking/Autistic Burnout Workbook by Dr. Megan Anna Neff: https://bookshop.org/a/108800/9781507223062Adult Children of Emotionally Immature Parents:https://bookshop.org/a/108800/9781626251700Deconstruction and Coming Out Resources from Erica Smith, M. Ed:https://www.ericasmitheac.com/webinars-booksEmbrace Autism – https://embrace-autism.com/audhd-and-camouflaging/👉 Check out my full Autism Masking Playlist here: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLvgCuULIHenWGoJhC5GCubniGTuAt6TkT

In this episode, I explore autistic masking — what it is, why it happens, and how it impacts identity, mental health, and burnout. Drawing from Dr. Megan Anna Neff’s Autistic Burnout Workbook and research from Embrace Autism, I share definitions, examples, and personal insights from my own experience as a high masker. We talk about the conscious and unconscious ways autistic people adapt to fit in, the connection to ADHD camouflaging, and why masking can be both protective and exhausting.Whether you’re autistic, ADHD, or supporting someone who masks, this conversation offers a deeper understanding and practical takeaways.Be sure to use my code AUDHDBOSS for a discount on Dr. Neff's AutisticMasking Workbook : https://neurodivergentinsights.com/autistic-masking/autistic-masking/

What’s really happening when an autistic person has a meltdown or shutdown at work? In today's episode I am reviewing the differences between autistic meltdowns and shutdowns. In doing so, I am reading from Embrace Autism's blog on what meltdowns and shutdowns along with my experiences of these descriptions. For more information on this topic read more from Embrace Autism's website here. Please note this episode is audio-only this week. I read from a newly updated Embrace Autism article that explains the BIMS profile: Burnout, Inertia, Meltdowns, and Shutdowns. Then, I share personal stories of how masking, miscommunication, executive dysfunction, and sensory overwhelm have triggered these experiences for me in real-time — sometimes in high-stakes workplace situations.If you’ve ever struggled with emotional overload, gone completely silent in meetings, or felt deep shame after "losing it" at work — this episode is for you. You’ll also learn research-backed strategies for recognizing early signs, completing the stress cycle, and supporting recovery.Topics in this episode include:Meltdowns vs shutdowns: what’s the difference?What overload looks like in the workplaceHow ADHD and masking contribute to dysregulationShame and recovery after a shutdown or meltdownTools to recognize early signs and self-regulate🎧 Listen now and subscribe for more episodes on neurodiversity at work, unmasking, burnout, and thriving as a professional with ADHD and autism.🧠 Coaching + resources: https://audhdboss.com📬 Subscribe to the newsletter: https://brettwhitmarsh.substack.com#AutisticBurnout #ADHDAndAutism #MeltdownVsShutdown #NeurodivergentAtWork #AuDHD #Masking #ExecutiveDysfunction #WorkplaceAccommodations

In this episode, I get real about the biggest mistakes I’ve made as a leader—and how being diagnosed with autism and ADHD gave me a new lens on all of them.From reacting too quickly to letting my ADHD hijack team priorities, I share hard-earned lessons that every manager—especially those who are neurodivergent—needs to hear. If you’re in a leadership role and navigating your own neurodivergent traits, this one’s for you.🎥 Watch the full video version on YouTube📩 Sign up for my newsletter: https://brettwhitmarsh.substack.com🌐 More tips at https://audhdboss.com

What happens when you unmask autism and ADHD—on a comedy stage—during Pride?In this solo episode, I share the chaotic, hilarious, emotional journey of performing my first stand-up set as an autistic, ADHD queer adult.From scripting punchlines and channeling sitcoms to mic stand disasters and post-performance crashes, this is more than a comedy story—it’s a story about identity, burnout, recovery, and pride.🎧 In this episode:How I used stand-up comedy to process masking and queer identityWhy emotional burnout hits hard after unmaskingMy ADHD script prep hacks and crash recovery toolsWhat I learned about my AuDHD brain by stepping into the spotlight🎤 And yes... the mic stand really did fall apart.Unmasking Autism, Comedy and ADHD, Autistic Performer, Neurodivergent Pride, Masking & Burnout, Stand-Up with AuDHD, Emotional Overload, Queer and Autistic, ADHD Recovery, Religious Trauma

Is it worth getting an ADHD or autism diagnosis later in life? I’m Brett, The AuDHD Boss—an autistic manager with ADHD—and in this episode, I’m answering one of the most common questions I get from late-diagnosed professionals: “Should I get a formal diagnosis?”In this episode, I share:The personal questions I asked before getting diagnosedHow diagnosis helped me at work (and when I didn’t actually need it)Why self-diagnosis is still valid and valuableThe pros and cons of disclosing at workWhat you need to consider before taking the next stepWhether you're wondering about accommodations, clarity, or just curious what others have experienced—this episode will help you explore the decision from a strength-based, real-world perspective.📬 Join my newsletter for more workplace tools: https://brettwhitmarsh.substack.com🌐 Learn more at: https://audhdboss.com#ADHDDiagnosis #AutismDiagnosis #LateDiagnosis #AuDHD #NeurodivergentWorkplace

I’m an autistic leader with ADHD, and I’ve spent over a decade working in a leadership position in corporate workplace. And for most of that time, I’ve masked—hard.What does masking at work actually look like for an autistic manager with ADHD? And what does it cost us to stay “professional” every day?In this episode, I’m reflecting on masking in the corporate workplace—from learning to read the room to choosing when to speak, how to show up, and how to recover when masking becomes too much.As a leader with autism and ADHD, I talk why I still mad in the workplace, the toll masking takes on my identity and energy, and how I’m learning to unmask in a way that protects both my mental health and my leadership effectiveness. Whether you’re neurodivergent yourself or managing someone who is, this episode is for anyone who wants to better understand what masking is—and how to make room for authenticity in professional spaces.

n this episode, I explore the meaning of neuroqueering through my own lived experience as a queer, autistic, ADHD adult. Joined by Dr. Megan Anna Neff (Neurodivergent Insights), we dive into:The definition and origins of the term "neuroqueer"How masking and identity suppression lead to burnoutThe grief of coming out and discovering you're neurodivergent later in lifeWhat it means to heal your inner childWhy unmasking is a slow, emotional, and communal journeyWe also discuss how safety, community, and self-permission are key to stepping into your authentic identity—and how queer and neurodivergent joy often go hand-in-hand.🎧 Tune in to hear how unmasking shaped my path, why I believe identity work must happen in community, and what neuroqueering means to me today.🔗 Related Links:Full interview with Dr. Megan Anna Neff: https://youtu.be/Df4V9-vvinoMy Substack & Office Hours: https://brettwhitmarsh.substack.comNick Walker's original neuroqueer writing: https://neuroqueer.com/neuroqueer-an-introduction/**📚 Links Mentioned:** - Order Dr. Neff's **Autistic Burnout Workbook**: https://bookshop.org/a/108800/9781507223062- Dr. Neff's Website: https://neurodivergentinsights.com-Order Dr. Neff's Self Care for Autistic People: https://bookshop.org/a/108800/9781507221938📖 Learn more about Dr. Neff:https://www.neurodivergentinsights.com/Substack: https://substack.com/@neurodivergentinsights https://neurodivergentinsights.substack.com

Why do so many of us feel like we’re always performing — even in our safest spaces?In this powerful and deeply resonant episode, Brett (The AudHD Boss) is joined once again by Dr. Megan Anna Neff, psychologist and founder of Neurodivergent Insights, to explore the complex emotional and psychological experience of autistic masking.Together, they discuss:How masking starts in childhood as a trauma and survival responseThe privilege, protection, and cost of masking — especially for BIPOC neurodivergent individualsThe intersection of masking with OCD, burnout, queerness, and late diagnosisWhy unmasking is not just a process — but a layered, relational, and identity-shaping journeyHow to hold nuance in the unmasking conversation, including when masking is protective or strategicThe need for self-permission, community, and compassion as we learn how to be our fullest selvesThis is one of the most honest, layered, and liberating conversations we’ve had — full of real stories, research, and reflections. Whether you’re navigating your own unmasking process or supporting someone who is, you’ll walk away with validation, insight, and the reminder that this work is not meant to be done alone.🔗 Learn more about Dr. Neff at neurodivergentinsights.com💻 Coaching and resources: audhdboss.com📺 Watch the full video on YouTube: @AudioBoss🎧 Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts#Autism #Unmasking #Neurodivergent #Masking #MentalHealth #LateDiagnosis #AutismInAdults #DrMeganAnnaNeff #QueerAndNeurodivergent #NeurodivergentIdentity #ADHD #AutisticBurnout

How do you turn burnout into business success as a neurodivergent entrepreneur? In this compelling episode, Brett, the AuDHD Boss, sits down with Patrick Casale – therapist, private practice coach, and host of the All Things Private Practice podcast and Divergent Conversations with Dr. Megan Anna Neff– to share his journey from high-stress work environments to thriving as a self-employed ADHD and autistic business owner.In This Episode:Patrick’s path from workplace burnout to building a private practiceManaging imposter syndrome and self-doubt as a neurodivergent leaderPractical strategies for self-accommodations and executive functionCreating affirming workplaces for ADHD and autistic staffUsing fear as a gas pedal instead of a brake in businessListen now to learn how Patrick Casale transformed burnout into a thriving business while navigating the unique challenges of ADHD and autism.

Work travel can be a sensory and social minefield for autistic and ADHD professionals. In this episode, I share my personal strategies and accommodations for handling work trips and conferences more effectively. From sensory tools to masking plans and recovery routines, these tips can help you feel more prepared and less overwhelmed when traveling for work. Tune in to hear practical advice inspired by Dr. Megan Anna Neff’s Autistic Burnout Workbook and my own experiences as an autistic leader. #NeurodivergentWorkplace #Autism #ADHD #WorkTravel #AudHDChapters:0:00 – Introduction: Why Work Travel is Challenging for Me1:05 – Sensory Tools: Travel-Friendly Stims2:18 – Planning Downtime & Setting Alarms3:02 – Identifying Quiet Spaces & Exit Strategies3:58 – Adjusting My Masking Plan: Who Can I Unmask With?5:15 – Creating a Recovery Plan for Work Events6:21 – Maintaining Routines on the Road7:46 – Navigating Social Situations & Group Activities8:27 – Food, Water, and Rest – Meeting Basic Needs9:17 – Final Thoughts & Recommended Resources******RESOURCES**********📘Dr. Neff's "Autistic Burnout Workbook": https://bookshop.org/a/108800/9781507223062📖Self Care for Autistic People: https://bookshop.org/a/108800/9781507221938🔗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

What happens when both you and your boss have ADHD? In this episode, I'm joined by my longtime friend and former colleague, Sherry, for a deep dive into the challenges and strategies of managing up with a neurodivergent manager.We share real-world stories about navigating chaotic energy, building strengths-based teams, structuring weekly check-ins, and using "reverse accommodations" to create a more successful and supportive workplace.Whether you're neurodivergent yourself or simply want better communication with your leadership, this conversation is packed with insights you can apply today.Topics we cover:Managing priorities when your boss has ADHDBuilding trust through confident vulnerabilitySupporting overwhelmed managers without doing their job for themCommunication tips for remote neurodivergent teams🎧 Subscribe for more conversations about ADHD, autism, and thriving in the workplace.Managing Up with ADHDADHD in the WorkplaceNeurodivergent Manager SupportADHD Boss Employee TipsCorporate Workplace ADHD StrategiesManaging Neurodivergent TeamsStrength-Based Leadership ADHDHow to Manage Up with ADHDADHD Communication TipsThriving with ADHD at Work

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/