Nerding out on Neurodiversity

Ready for an important, emotional, and vulnerable episode? Today, we have the incredible privilege and pleasure to speak with Chris and Martha Thomas about their organization -- The Defensive Line! Chris and Martha started The Defensive Line with a specific mission in mind: to end youth suicide and transform how we, as a whole, communicate and connect regarding mental health. In this goal, they are also joined by their son, Solomon Thomas, currently an NFL defensive tackle for the Tennessee Titans. Together, they designed -- and teach -- various informed and research-backed suicide prevention workshops. Today, The Defensive Line works to support teachers, administrators, parents, coaches, students, and any/all who want to understand the difficult topic of suicide. As a result, Chris, Martha, Solomon, and The Defensive Line have become important voices and figures advocating for empathy, understanding, and support for any and all peoples struggling with suicide in any form. Together, we dive deep into the topic of suicide -- and how it directly impacts, and impacted, the Thomas family. Throughout our conversation, Chris and Martha exhibit an unmatched openness and vulnerability, especially as they talk about their daughter, Ella, and how loved and missed she is. Her memory is foundational to everything they do, and Ella continues to influence who Chris, Martha, and Solomon are and continue to grow into. They reinforce that talking about suicide -- in any form -- is so critical to helping those who may be struggling with it. Through talking about Ella, sharing her stories, and illustrating true vulnerability -- even through the pain and tears -- her family keeps her love, compassion, and legacy eternal and everlasting. It was an incredible pleasure speaking with Chris and Martha, and we know that all who listen will benefit immensely from hearing their experiences, wisdom, and honesty. Thank you for being authentic, for being vulnerable, and for trusting us to help share your story with the world. We know that you're impacting humanity for the better 🦄🥳🦄! -- Ask Questions. Be Humane. Lead With Love. -- Chris, Martha, Solomon, andThe Defensive Line can be found at their website, Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn! Thank you for listening to the NooN Podcast! The NooN Podcast is brought to you by the Neurodiversity Collective, one of the foremost leaders in serving the mental health and social-emotional needs of the neurodivergent community. To learn more, please visit us at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Neurodiversity Collective's website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. If you have any questions, comments, or you'd like to be a guest on the podcast, please email us at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠jake@theneurodiversitycollective.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ If you'd like to learn more, please follow us on social media: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ or ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode, we have the immense privilege to speak with Julie Skolnick! She is the founder of 'With Understanding Comes Calm', where she works to help all people within and around the neurodiversity world. Specifically, she helps parents, teachers, clinicians, and twice-exceptional adults to bring out their self confidence and introspection. At the same time, Julie started, now produces and runs, a virtual conference -- "2 Days of 2E". Here, she focuses on community building and collaboration across all those involved. Julie also speaks and presents at various conferences, runs a Substack, and writes a ton! In case it isn't clear yet, Julie Skolnick is an active and critical voice within the world of neurodiversity, understanding, and advocacy. Together, we dive deep into Julie's experiences and how she operates within the neurodivergent world. We loved hearing about Julie's life as both a parent and a professional within the field, especially reinforcing the 'banking' metaphor! We sometimes forget to celebrate the positives and the engagement with our 2E kids -- what better time to remember to do this than right now? For teachers, that 'bank account' can be seen as building trust and compassion between all participants for each student's journey. Julie reinforces that things like this can help boost the student's confidence and trust towards parents and teachers around them. We know that Julie's story, wisdom, and experiences will be eye-opening and motivational to all who listen! Julie, it was such a joy and pleasure speaking with you, thank you for sharing with us -- and our listeners!🦄🥳🦄! -- Struggle Makes Life Worth Living -- Julie Skolnick can be found at her website, on YouTube, LinkedIn, Instagram, and her Substack! Thank you for listening to the NooN Podcast! The NooN Podcast is brought to you by the Neurodiversity Collective, one of the foremost leaders in serving the mental health and social-emotional needs of the neurodivergent community. To learn more, please visit us at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Neurodiversity Collective's website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. If you have any questions, comments, or you'd like to be a guest on the podcast, please email us at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠jake@theneurodiversitycollective.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ If you'd like to learn more, please follow us on social media: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ or ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode, we have the immense joy of speaking with James Burden! As a registered Speech and Language Pathologist, James specializes in any and all things Stutters. He actively works to dispel various misconceptions about stuttering as a whole -- while simultaneously leading individuals down a path of self-acceptance and understanding. Rather than seeing stutters from strictly a pathological stance, James approaches the concept, and each individual, through a holistic lens, acknowledging that stuttering manifests in different ways for different people. James Burden presents such a clear and intentional perspective when engaging with stuttering, as well as all neurodiversities -- which is deeply appreciated! A key aspect that James addresses and explores with stuttering is how much the social response impacts the individual. Inevitably, as James discusses, this can lead to avoidance and negative self-perception. But, his insight and wisdom in 'burning off' those negative self-talk patterns is something that all people can internalize -- stutter or not! Being aware of these thoughts and ideas in the moment is foundational to how James engages with his clients and those around him. We love James' authenticity in how he approaches his work and clients, not to mention the compassion for dissipating these types of myths and misrepresentations that surround stuttering. James, it was such a privilege speaking with you and hearing about your experiences and journey. We are excited to see what you'll do -- and who you'll inspire -- next🦄🥳🦄! -- Wholeness; More Important than Cosmetics -- James Burden can be found on his website, LinkedIn, and Instagram. Thank you for listening to the NooN Podcast! The NooN Podcast is brought to you by the Neurodiversity Collective, one of the foremost leaders in serving the mental health and social-emotional needs of the neurodivergent community. To learn more, please visit us at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Neurodiversity Collective's website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. If you have any questions, comments, or you'd like to be a guest on the podcast, please email us at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠jake@theneurodiversitycollective.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ If you'd like to learn more, please follow us on social media: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ or ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode, we have the immense joy of speaking with Bethany Crystal! Also known as 'Bethany the Builder', she discusses her personal and professional experience working with, and around, AI -- as well as all of the complexities surrounding the topic of AI. With over 15 years in the tech field, supporting engineers, founders, and various other parties, Bethany now utilizes AI to create and build a multitude of tools for all to use! Today, Bethany guides us through the development of MuseKat -- from being an idea to a reality, and what that means. At the same time, Bethany has rapidly become a crucial voice in the AI world, leading hands-on workshops to help teams and individuals take an idea and make it a reality. A key aspect that Bethany highlights and explores is the idea of working fractionally. Rather than working on one project at a time, Bethany works on multiple projects at once -- something that many of us with ADHD would absolutely benefit from utilizing! By working fractionally, Bethany is able to channel that neurodiverse energy into short 'burst windows' when her interest and energy are high. Bethany, it was such a joy and privilege speaking with you and hearing all about your experiences and journey and we can't wait to hear what you'll do next🦄🥳🦄! -- Don't be Afraid to Push Publish -- Bethany Crystal can be found on her website, LinkedIn, and her Instagram! Thank you for listening to the NooN Podcast! The NooN Podcast is brought to you by the Neurodiversity Collective, one of the foremost leaders in serving the mental health and social-emotional needs of the neurodivergent community. To learn more, please visit us at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Neurodiversity Collective's website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. If you have any questions, comments, or you'd like to be a guest on the podcast, please email us at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠jake@theneurodiversitycollective.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ If you'd like to learn more, please follow us on social media: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ or ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today's episode, we have the great joy of speaking with Amber Marshall! She is a school psychologist in Denver -- doing, quite literally, all of the things. Amber works with students, teachers, staff, and parents, knowing how important support, advocacy, and purposeful care can be. In her role, Amber makes sure that everyone understands that growth is not linear at all, and, more importantly, that it can be incredibly uncomfortable. Even public speaking can be uncomfortable, and Amber dives deep into her struggles with imposter syndrome, dyslexia, and how/why that led to her passions for advocacy and school psychology. At the same time, Amber addresses the importance of praising students for their passions and joys -- not strictly their struggles. Throughout our discussion, we aim to reinforce Amber's giftedness -- something that we hope she has internalized now! And, we love how she views education and psychology, knowing that the most important part is the kids. There is nothing more important in these roles than the students and the children that we all work with and encourage. We know that Amber's story is a critical one for anyone who seeks to understand neurodiversity and how it manifests within school cultures. Amber, it was such a privilege to speak with you and hear your story and experience, thank you a million times over🦄🥳🦄! -- Give the kids our everything-- Amber Marshall can be found at her Instagram and on LinkedIn. Thank you for listening to the NooN Podcast! The NooN Podcast is brought to you by the Neurodiversity Collective, one of the foremost leaders in serving the mental health and social-emotional needs of the neurodivergent community. To learn more, please visit us at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Neurodiversity Collective's website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. If you have any questions, comments, or you'd like to be a guest on the podcast, please email us at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠jake@theneurodiversitycollective.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ If you'd like to learn more, please follow us on social media: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ or ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode, we have the immense privilege to speak with Haley Moss! An attorney, an author, and a neurodiversity advocate, Haley truly is a leader in the field. Diagnosed with autism at the age of 3, Haley has been working diligently and passionately to help the world be more understanding and inclusive across the board. At the same time, Haley is an educator and a keynote speaker -- giving her first presentation at age 13! -- highlighting her story and life experiences, knowing that making a difference in even one person's life makes everything worth it. As a result, Haley has rapidly become a critical voice for neurodiversity awareness! Together, we dive deep into Haley's experience and her overall life. We loved hearing about Haley's life as a lawyer -- and all the multifaceted layers that come with being in the role in tandem with autism. This is truly important; the future is neurodiverse and accepting. Who better to genuinely live that than someone like Haley Moss?! At the same time, Haley discusses what it was like growing up as an autistic girl and the myriad of challenges that socially, and culturally, come alongside that. We know that Haley's story is one that everyone will benefit immensely from hearing. Haley, it was such a joy and pleasure speaking with you -- especially being able to talk and nerd out about Pokemon! Thank you for sharing about your favorite Pokemon -- and why you love the fire types🦄🥳🦄! -- Own what makes you, YOU. -- (You also might learn about our favorite Pokemon...) Haley Moss can be found at her website, Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, Twitter/'X', and YouTube! Thank you for listening to the NooN Podcast! The NooN Podcast is brought to you by the Neurodiversity Collective, one of the foremost leaders in serving the mental health and social-emotional needs of the neurodivergent community. To learn more, please visit us at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Neurodiversity Collective's website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. If you have any questions, comments, or you'd like to be a guest on the podcast, please email us at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠jake@theneurodiversitycollective.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ If you'd like to learn more, please follow us on social media: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ or ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This is another special episode for us! What makes today's episode another especially special one is our guest, Evan McComb. Another old student of ours, and another absolute pleasure and joy to know today. It was inspiring and a great privilege being able to share in even a small part of your journey. If you enjoyed Devin's story, you will love Evan's. (Also, Evan was another continuous delight to teach!) Initially going to school for engineering, Evan shifted gears -- now, he goes to culinary school! Evan takes us through his journey, exploring his thoughts on his educational journey, especially the external pressures that he was putting on himself. Throughout the whole conversation, Evan showed a sincere openness and vulnerability that we know is part of the essence of who Evan is. We genuinely appreciate how much you shared about your life, celebrations, struggles, and all. Anyone who has ever felt out of place, uncertain of their future path, or just curious about current neurodivergent struggles would benefit from hearing Evan's story and experiences!🥳🎉 Evan, we are so, so incredibly proud of who you are and the authentic, curious, and passionate person you continue to become. You continue to shine, just by being you. -- Things will always get better. -- Thank you for listening to the NooN Podcast! The NooN Podcast is brought to you by the Neurodiversity Collective, one of the foremost leaders in serving the mental health and social-emotional needs of the neurodivergent community. To learn more, please visit us at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Neurodiversity Collective's website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. If you have any questions, comments, or you'd like to be a guest on the podcast, please email us at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠jake@theneurodiversitycollective.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ If you'd like to learn more, please follow us on social media: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ or ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠.⁠⁠⁠⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode, we have the great joy of speaking with Cynthia Miller-Lautman! Cynthia is an Occupational Therapist based in Canada, specializing in neurodiversity through sensory integration and developing fine/gross motor skills. She works with schools, educators, caregivers, and a myriad of others. In her role, Cynthia makes sure that these complex sensory processing concepts are easy to understand and accessible for all. Alongside this, Cynthia has worked closely and intentionally with various Indigenous communities while being cognizant and sensitive of various cultural nuances and needs. As a result, Cynthia co-develops wonderful and supportive approaches to aid with regulation through a sensory lens. Together, we dive deep into what makes an Occupational Therapist -- as well as various myths and misconceptions. We loved our time with Cynthia and learned a ton about how different sensory processing needs manifest for different individuals. Hearing about Cynthia's experiences and expertise with sensory processing was inspirational, especially with the purpose and need for the various internal systems that we all feel. We know that everyone will benefit immensely from hearing Cynthia's story and understanding of neurodiverse individuals. Cynthia, it was such a privilege and pleasure speaking with you and hearing all about your experiences and journey🦄🥳🦄! -- Make the world Sensory Safe! -- Cynthia Miller-Lautman can be found at her website, Instagram, and LinkedIn! Thank you for listening to the NooN Podcast! The NooN Podcast is brought to you by the Neurodiversity Collective, one of the foremost leaders in serving the mental health and social-emotional needs of the neurodivergent community. To learn more, please visit us at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Neurodiversity Collective's website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. If you have any questions, comments, or you'd like to be a guest on the podcast, please email us at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠jake@theneurodiversitycollective.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ If you'd like to learn more, please follow us on social media: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ or ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode, we have the pleasure of hearing from Dr. Laura Berssenbrugge! She is the co-founder of The Modern Asian Parent, as well as Gramercy Psychology. Professionally, Dr. Laura specializes in working with teenagers and adults in navigating neurodiversity through therapy. With a deep understanding and appreciation towards cultural identities, and how multiculturality manifests, Dr. Laura encourages curiosity and vulnerability, understanding and celebrating that things are fluid! For her, everyone's experience deserves to be validated, seen, and respected -- that is foundational. Throughout our conversation, Dr. Laura dives into the broad socio-cultural history throughout human experience -- and how we are all impacted as a result. We loved being able to discuss such nuanced and complex topic with Dr. Laura. What does the future look like for the upcoming generations? How can we culturally internalize hope as a movement? Dr. Laura reminds us that we can all empower ourselves to find strength within our personal values, something foundational to what it is to be you, and how we can anchor ourselves to those values. Dr. Laura, thank you so incredibly much for your perspective, positivity, and insight. We are beyond grateful for your vulnerabilities and we know that everyone will immensely benefit from hearing from you: the Capricious Capricorn!🦄🥳🦄 -- Remember: You affect change. Every. Single. Day. -- Dr. Laura Berssenbrugge can be found on LinkedIn and Instagram, as well as through the websites for Gramercy Psychology and The Modern Asian Parent! Thank you for listening to the NooN Podcast! The NooN Podcast is brought to you by the Neurodiversity Collective, one of the foremost leaders in serving the mental health and social-emotional needs of the neurodivergent community. To learn more, please visit us at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Neurodiversity Collective's website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. If you have any questions, comments, or you'd like to be a guest on the podcast, please email us at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠jake@theneurodiversitycollective.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ If you'd like to learn more, please follow us on social media: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ or ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ready for an emotional sledgehammer of an episode? 'Cause we are! 🥳 This episode, we are privileged to be joined by none other than the Dr. Nazeer T. Zerka. More colloquially known by Dr. Naz, he founded the national nonprofit, Different Spectrums. Through his role as a specialized therapist, Dr. Naz intentionally designed Different Spectrums to be dedicated to supporting autistic, ADHD, and neurodivergent communities, especially within Black and Brown populations. Dr. Naz leads with authenticity, making it known that he is an autistic and neurodivergent clinician -- as such, he brings a level of understanding, cultural context, and lived empathy that traditional therapy often lacks. Perhaps most admirably, Dr. Naz's work is rooted not just in his doctorate and clinical training, but also in his upbringing in Flint and Saginaw, Michigan -- where he learned resilience, humor, and how to show up authentically for others. Together, we get very personal while opening up on topics within systemic struggles and how Dr. Naz has been personally impacted. He shares about his unique journey to becoming a caring and valued therapist. We delve into how protective he is (with the occasional consequence), how joyful and appreciative he is, and all of the intense, nuanced, "let's be ourselves" mentality with which he approaches the world, his practice, and our entire conversation. It was a genuine pleasure to speak with Dr. Naz -- especially with his frequent jabs at Dr. Matt! We had immense fun talking with Dr. Naz and we know you will too!🦄🥳🦄 -- Take care of yourselves. Or don't... jackasses. 💝 -- Dr. Naz can be found on any and all social media platforms via his LinkTree, as through the Different Spectrums website! Thank you for listening to the NooN Podcast! The NooN Podcast is brought to you by the Neurodiversity Collective, one of the foremost leaders in serving the mental health and social-emotional needs of the neurodivergent community. To learn more, please visit us at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Neurodiversity Collective's website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. If you have any questions, comments, or you'd like to be a guest on the podcast, please email us at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠jake@theneurodiversitycollective.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ If you'd like to learn more, please follow us on social media: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ or ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode, we have the joy of talking with Bella -- a full-time dog foster parent, Yakuza enthusiast, Discord server admin, and overall inspirational person. Together, we dive into her experiences growing up neurodivergent and what navigating that looked and felt like. From family history to dating struggles, Bella embodies authenticity in growth and introspection. We also loved being able to take the time to trace some of Bella and Jake's friendship through the years! What starts off with semi-catching up quickly becomes a deep appreciation for Bella's fostering passions. We loved hearing about the infamous Meme* (featured picture) and her Viagra prescription -- not to mention the joys that she brought to Bella and the world. At the same time, we meander through endless pop-culture connections and references! We loved talking with you Bella, and we know you, our audience will, too! Thank you for your time, authenticity, and vulnerabilities!🦄🥳🦄 -- Try to be curious! -- Thank you for listening to the NooN Podcast! The NooN Podcast is brought to you by the Neurodiversity Collective, one of the foremost leaders in serving the mental health and social-emotional needs of the neurodivergent community. To learn more, please visit us at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Neurodiversity Collective's website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. If you have any questions, comments, or you'd like to be a guest on the podcast, please email us at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠jake@theneurodiversitycollective.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ If you'd like to learn more, please follow us on social media: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ or ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today, we have the living embodiment of all things glitter, sparkles, and phenomenalness -- Stephanie Higgs, or, as the iconic, Little Miss Gifted! She is an award-winning gifted educator and differentiation coach from Nashville. In every aspect of life, Stephanie is energetic, passionate, and positive, always encouraging and inspiring those around her. At the same time, she presents at various conferences, always making sure to remember to focus on what is actually useful for teachers. For her, teachers are so, so critical, the best humans in the world! Being a gifted teacher, Stephanie makes sure to 'leave some sparkle' wherever she goes -- and we know that she is beyond successful in that! Together, we explore the world of conferences, education, and giftedness -- all while sprinkling in various aspects of neurodiversity and smiles. We loved our time with Stephanie, and we are absolutely positive that you will as well. As Dr. Matt says, Stephanie is like if you "took glitter, a couple of Red Bulls, and a lot of southern charm" and mixed it all together. It was such a joy and privilege speaking with you and hearing all about your experiences and journey... and your tragic dating life🦄🥳🦄! -- Teachers are my Superheroes -- Stephanie Higgs can be found on Instagram and her website! Her 'Differentiated Math' video can be found on YouTube! Thank you for listening to the NooN Podcast! The NooN Podcast is brought to you by the Neurodiversity Collective, one of the foremost leaders in serving the mental health and social-emotional needs of the neurodivergent community. To learn more, please visit us at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Neurodiversity Collective's website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. If you have any questions, comments, or you'd like to be a guest on the podcast, please email us at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠jake@theneurodiversitycollective.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ If you'd like to learn more, please follow us on social media: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ or ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today, we have the immense privilege of speaking with Elaine Taylor-Klaus! She is a Master Certified Coach and adult educator in the areas of coaching, neurodiversity, and parenting. At the same time, Elaine is a coach, author, speaker, and Co-Founder of ImpactADHD® and ImpactParents. Both Impact groups work to provide neurodiversity-informed coaching skills for parents working with "complex" kids -- and the professionals who support them. Her book, The Essential Guide to Raising Complex Kids is a critical read for understanding the neurodiverse population with ample wisdom and expertise! We loved being able to dive into the world of parenting, coaching, and what enthusiasm and understanding truly looks like from a parent -- and professional -- lens. We dive into a myriad of complex ideas and topics with Elaine Taylor-Klaus, all focused on neurodiversity and her life's journey/work. As the parent of neurodiverse children, we loved being able to explore the parental side of Elaine's experiences -- especially knowing her immediate connection to Voltron! We know that everyone will benefit from hearing Elaine's story and her wisdom. It was such a pleasure speaking with you, Elaine -- thank you for your time, care, and passions🦄🥳🦄! -- Change comes from challenging your assumptions -- Elaine Taylor-Klaus can be found on LinkedIn, Instagram, and the Impact Parents Website! You can also sign up for the keystone training, Sanity School through this link! Sanity School® is a foundational training in a model that blends coaching skills with neurodiversity -- for both parents AND professionals. Only delivered live every year or so, it's a rare opportunity! Thank you for listening to the NooN Podcast! The NooN Podcast is brought to you by the Neurodiversity Collective, one of the foremost leaders in serving the mental health and social-emotional needs of the neurodivergent community. To learn more, please visit us at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Neurodiversity Collective's website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. If you have any questions, comments, or you'd like to be a guest on the podcast, please email us at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠jake@theneurodiversitycollective.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ If you'd like to learn more, please follow us on social media: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ or ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode, we have the great pleasure of speaking with Dr. Scott Barry Kaufman, an influential and deeply passionate psychologist, coach, professor, speaker, and best selling author! Dr. Kaufman is among the top 1% most cited scientists in the world for his research on intelligence and creativity -- a well deserved accolade. He is, as we say, the 'contemporary Abraham Maslow' since, in his work and research, Dr. Kaufman takes Maslow's work and propels it into new areas. We loved being able to dive into these complex, nuanced concepts foundational to self-actualization and reflective introspection. We explore a myriad of topics with Dr. Kaufman, all centered on neurodiversity (obviously!) and his experience and wisdom. With his work focusing on self-actualization, we know that Dr. Kaufman's many books will help guide and inspire everyone -- especially with Transcend being one of Dr. Matt's all time favorites! We had immense fun talking with Dr. Kaufman and we know you will too!🦄🥳🦄Thank you for your time, care, and passions, Dr. Kaufman. He's also a professional mentalist! -- Are We Allowed? -- Dr. Scott Barry Kaufman can be found on LinkedIn, Instagram, and his website! Thank you for listening to the NooN Podcast! The NooN Podcast is brought to you by the Neurodiversity Collective, one of the foremost leaders in serving the mental health and social-emotional needs of the neurodivergent community. To learn more, please visit us at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Neurodiversity Collective's website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. If you have any questions, comments, or you'd like to be a guest on the podcast, please email us at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠jake@theneurodiversitycollective.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ If you'd like to learn more, please follow us on social media: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ or ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode, we speak with Dr. Colleen Plein -- an otolaryngologist as well as an active coach for gifted and neurodiverse adults! As a doctor, Dr. Plein is an ENT surgeon where she specializes in nasal and sinus problems. In her professional role, Dr. Plein recognizes and understands the various needs and support systems surrounding neurodiverse patients. The result? A wonderful, capable, knowledgeable, and patient medical provider who genuinely cares for any and all neurodiverse patients. Alongside her medical and coaching career, Dr. Colleen Plein discusses her experiences grappling with her own neurodiversity as well as her spouse. We loved Dr. Plein's openness and vulnerability in exploring how her relationship and daily life are impacted by her career and her neurodiversity. Thank you for sharing your perspective, experience, and wisdom, Dr. Plein! We adored our time with Dr. Plein -- we know you will too!🦄🥳🦄 -- Humaning. Is. Important. -- Dr. Colleen Plein can be found on LinkedIn, Instagram, and her ⁠company's website⁠! Thank you for listening to the NooN Podcast! The NooN Podcast is brought to you by the Neurodiversity Collective, one of the foremost leaders in serving the mental health and social-emotional needs of the neurodivergent community. To learn more, please visit us at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Neurodiversity Collective's website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. If you have any questions, comments, or you'd like to be a guest on the podcast, please email us at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠jake@theneurodiversitycollective.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ If you'd like to learn more, please follow us on social media: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ or ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode, we speak with Dr. Katie Hurley -- a multifaceted, passionate leader in the world of neurodiversity! Professionally, Dr. Hurley is a child and adolescent psychotherapist, parenting educator, public speaker, and writer. Dr. Hurley has authored five books, focusing on the intersection of youth, parenting, and mental health. At the same time, Dr. Hurley is the Senior Clinical Advisor of The Jed Foundation. Dr. Hurley dives into what the JED Foundation is and does, highlighting that it is a nonprofit dedicated to youth and young adult mental health and suicide prevention. She is a strong advocate for breaking down the barriers in discussing suicide as a topic -- and, for encouraging everyone to find comfort and confidence in approaching conversations and discussions around suicide. We loved our time with Dr. Hurley -- especially diving deep into how to build a community of care and passion in schools. Most times, this stems from conflict resolution and clear, healthy communication. What does conflict resolution look like? How can we teach people how to solve conflicts? We hope that teachers feel comfortable and confident approaching difficult topics, like suicide awareness, education, and prevention. Thank you for addressing the importance of community building as something that goes beyond the school, making sure to include parents and the broader community surrounding the school(s). Let's all remember to pause and talk with others, strangers included! We wholeheartedly appreciated our time with Dr. Katie Hurley -- and we know you will too!🦄🥳🦄 -- Nothing can be done in Isolation -- Dr. Katie Hurley can be found at her website, LinkedIn, and Instagram. Her books can be found online and in various bookstores, too! The JED Foundation can be found at their website. Thank you for listening to the NooN Podcast! The NooN Podcast is brought to you by the Neurodiversity Collective, one of the foremost leaders in serving the mental health and social-emotional needs of the neurodivergent community. To learn more, please visit us at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Neurodiversity Collective's website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. If you have any questions, comments, or you'd like to be a guest on the podcast, please email us at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠jake@theneurodiversitycollective.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ If you'd like to learn more, please follow us on social media: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ or ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode, we speak with Mr. Sam Young -- the phenomenal mind and leader behind Young Scholar's Academy! Mr. Sam guides us through the beginning of YSA, while also highlighting how the school operates. As a specialized school meant -- and made -- for neurodiverse, twice-exceptional students, YSA shines as an exceptional and intentional enrichment program. Mr. Sam aims to make sure that all of the teachers at YSA are "better teachers" than he is (which we highly doubt!). Alongside the history and idea for YSA, Mr. Sam gets open and vulnerable with us. He addresses his personal struggles with his ADHD diagnosis, recognizing this within various avenues in his past, and how important a program like YSA is for these types of students. We wholeheartedly valued our time with Mr. Sam -- and YSA sounds like such a magical place! 🦄🥳🦄 Thank you for all you do, and are, for these students. We loved our ADHD-trio! -- Oh, this is education...! -- Mr. Sam and Young Scholars Academy can be found at the YSA website and his LinkedIn! Thank you for listening to the NooN Podcast! The NooN Podcast is brought to you by the Neurodiversity Collective, one of the foremost leaders in serving the mental health and social-emotional needs of the neurodivergent community. To learn more, please visit us at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Neurodiversity Collective's website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. If you have any questions, comments, or you'd like to be a guest on the podcast, please email us at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠jake@theneurodiversitycollective.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ If you'd like to learn more, please follow us on social media: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ or ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode we have the great privilege to speak with Gordon Smith! A multidimensional person, Gordon is a counselor, coach, and creative who specifically works with gifted adolescents and adults. Based in North Carolina, Gordon began Gifted and Growing as a multifaceted approach to supporting and caring for all gifted and neurodiverse individuals. His core expertise lies in helping gifted people become more fully themselves. Through this, Gordon's passion, dedication, and career blend together to seamlessly aid the entire neurodiverse world! 🥳 At the same time, Gordon has been an active and foundational member of the North Carolina community -- something that's been empowering and inspirational in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene. While a complex topic, we loved being able to dive deep into the post-hurricane world and what that looks and feels like. We are confident that North Carolina is in wonderful hands with Gordon Smith's expertise, compassion, and knowledge. Thank you for your time and enthusiasm, Gordon! 🥳🦄 -- Do. The. Scary. Thing. -- You can find Gordon Smith at: Gifted and Growing   Gifted Trauma Alchemy Group Experience Gifted Adult Group Experience   For Post-Helene Charitable Organizations: Beloved Asheville Manna Food Bank  River Arts District Foundation For Mutual Aid Info: Mutual Aid Hub Mutual Aid 101 Thank you for listening to the NooN Podcast! The NooN Podcast is brought to you by the Neurodiversity Collective, one of the foremost leaders in serving the mental health and social-emotional needs of the neurodivergent community. To learn more, please visit us at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Neurodiversity Collective's website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. If you have any questions, comments, or you'd like to be a guest on the podcast, please email us at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠jake@theneurodiversitycollective.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ If you'd like to learn more, please follow us on social media: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ or ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode we have the great privilege to speak with Claire Sabatine, the visionary founder and CEO of Powerplay! Claire's journey has been nothing but inspirational -- especially in how she can seamlessly blend her experiences as an actor, educator, and producer. Through Powerplay, Claire uses performance-centered techniques and approaches to genuinely help anyone recognize that their voice has power. From boardrooms, classrooms, and theatres, Claire's work helps remind all of us about the importance of play! 🥳 We loved our time with Claire and know you will, too! It was incredible getting to hear about her motivations to blend play, performance, and humanity in such a meaningful manner. Claire's compassion, creativity, and insight make her a wonderful and authentic bridge between the multiple masks we all wear and how we can play and perform in the world. Her ability to show that play doesn't go away after you're 'done being a kid', it transcends into being a sincere avenue for growth, introspection, and curiosity. Thank you for your time and wisdom, Claire! We are so appreciative of you, Powerplay, all you bring the world! 🥳🎉 -- What if we didn't stop playing? -- Claire Sabatine can be found at her website as well as on ⁠her Instagram⁠ and ⁠LinkedIn ⁠as well as Powerplay's ⁠Instagram!⁠ Thank you for listening to the NooN Podcast! The NooN Podcast is brought to you by the Neurodiversity Collective, one of the foremost leaders in serving the mental health and social-emotional needs of the neurodivergent community. To learn more, please visit us at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Neurodiversity Collective's website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. If you have any questions, comments, or you'd like to be a guest on the podcast, please email us at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠jake@theneurodiversitycollective.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ If you'd like to learn more, please follow us on social media: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ or ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode we have the immense pleasure and privilege to speak to Kathryn Morris, the CEO and founder of The Savants! Kathryn's inspirational journey shifted her out of the professional acting scene into that of a mother to two twins with an autism diagnosis. Through her experience raising her kids, Kathryn started The Savants as a place to help support any and all parents on the neurodiverse journey -- and we know that Kathryn does absolutely incredible work! We love that Kathryn's journey has allowed us to meet, share stories, and genuinely connect 🥳 We loved our time with Kathryn and know you will, too! It was incredible getting to talk with Kathryn and hear about her experience as a mother and as a well known actress -- Cold Case, anyone? It's amazing to hear how Kathryn took a fear of hers and changed her perspective to see it instead as a joyful adventure. Kathryn's expertise and curiosity lead her to truly be at the forefront of neurodiversity advocacy and awareness. Thank you for your time, wisdom, and joys, Kathryn! We are so appreciative of you, The Savants, our ongoing partnership, and all you offer the world! 🥳🎉 -- What if we all pushed things forward? -- Kathryn Morris can be found at The Savants as well as on her Instagram and LinkedIn as well as The Savants' Instagram! Thank you for listening to the NooN Podcast! The NooN Podcast is brought to you by the Neurodiversity Collective, one of the foremost leaders in serving the mental health and social-emotional needs of the neurodivergent community. To learn more, please visit us at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Neurodiversity Collective's website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. If you have any questions, comments, or you'd like to be a guest on the podcast, please email us at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠jake@theneurodiversitycollective.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ If you'd like to learn more, please follow us on social media: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ or ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices