Summary: In this episode of Neurodivergent Spot , host Sam Marion speaks with Shane Thrapp, CEO of Creating Order from Chaos, an ADHD life coaching organization. Shane is also an operations director for the Men's ADHD Support Group and a consultant helping businesses implement neurodivergent-friendly accommodations. They discuss Shane’s personal journey navigating ADHD and autism, the challenges neurodivergent individuals face in understanding themselves, and the critical need for updated education on neurodivergence. Shane also shares insights into workplace accommodations and the importance of aligning work with personal values. Quotes: "People grow up living to expectations instead of living to who they are." "We don't naturally introspect—metacognition isn't our thing—so we need outside perspectives to help us understand ourselves." "ADHD and autism aren’t childhood disorders; they’re lifelong neurodevelopmental differences that need better awareness and support." Contact Information: Shane Thrapp Website: Creating Order from Chaos LinkedIn: Shane Thrapp Facebook: Men's ADHD Support Group Keywords: Neurodivergence ADHD coaching Autism support Workplace accommodations ADHD awareness Neurodivergent advocacy Mental health Executive functioning Self-discovery Neurodiversity in education Follow the show to make sure you don't miss any episodes! You can also connect with me on Instagram on my show page @NeurodivergentSpot or my professional page @sammarioncounseling . Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.…

Summary: In this episode of Neurodivergent Spot , host Sam Marion speaks with Shara Tipton, a multiply neurodivergent executive function coach with a background in public school teaching. Shara shares insights into her neurodivergent journey, the challenges of executive dysfunction, and the importance of rest in self-management. They discuss the impact of shame in neurodivergent experiences, the transition from teaching to coaching, and practical strategies for overcoming demand avoidance. Shara also highlights the significance of meeting basic needs before tackling executive function struggles. Quotes: "When you are not properly nourished or rested, and you aren't having real brain rest, the difficulty level of everything is harder." "A lot of neurodivergent people get stuck in a space where they keep pushing a task forward in their mind but never actually start it." "Being in relationship with someone who does not feel shame about my dirty dishes or unopened emails anymore can be really healing." Contact Information: Shara Tipton Website: sharatipton.com Instagram: @wellnesspun Keywords: Executive function Neurodivergent coaching ADHD support Demand avoidance Rest and productivity Neurodivergent burnout Executive dysfunction Learning differences Self-management Neurodivergent shame PDA profile Brain rest Autistic adults ADHD strategies Follow the show to make sure you don't miss any episodes! You can also connect with me on Instagram on my show page @NeurodivergentSpot or my professional page @sammarioncounseling . Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.…

Summary In this episode of Neurodivergent Spot , Sam Marion talks with Julia DeNey, founder of Sense-ational You, a company creating adaptive apparel with built-in sensory tools for autistic and ADHD children. Julia shares her journey from studying fashion design at Cornell University to working in special education and developing products that meet the unique needs of neurodivergent kids. Tune in for insights on inclusive fashion, sensory-friendly clothing, and the intersection of design and neurodiversity. Quotes "Adaptive fashion isn’t just about clothing—it’s about dignity, comfort, and self-expression." "When we design with sensory needs in mind, we create a world that’s more inclusive for everyone." "Every child deserves to feel comfortable and confident in what they wear." Contact Information: Website: Sense-ational You Instagram: @SenseationalYou Keywords: Neurodiversity Adaptive fashion Sensory-friendly clothing Autism support ADHD children Inclusive design Special education Sensory tools Cornell fashion designFollow the show to make sure you don't miss any episodes! You can also connect with me on Instagram on my show page @NeurodivergentSpot or my professional page @sammarioncounseling . Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.…

Episode Summary In this episode of Neurodivergent Spot , host Sam Marion welcomes Sam Mitchell, the creator of Autism Rocks and Rolls , a podcast dedicated to sharing the experiences and perspectives of autistic individuals. Sam discusses his journey with autism, his passion for podcasting, and his advocacy work, which includes public speaking and nonprofit efforts. He shares insights on the challenges autistic individuals face, the importance of structured yet accepting environments, and how he balances his many commitments using intentional organization. This conversation offers valuable perspectives on embracing neurodivergent strengths and building inclusive spaces. Quotes: "People with autism have actually listened and nodded their head. It’s like, ‘Yes! Oh my goodness, yes! Someone finally gets why I’m doing this.’" "I think our uniqueness and our quirks—and the fact that we can still do something—should make up for our lack of social skills." "I started podcasting through my high school’s media club, but I didn’t want to wait until college. I’ve always believed in starting early." Contact Information: Sam Mitchell’s Podcast: Autism Rocks and Rolls Instagram: @AutismRocksAndRolls Keywords: Autism advocacy Neurodivergence and podcasting Autism Rocks and Rolls podcast Autistic public speakers Neurodiversity and social skills Balancing advocacy and college Autism and structured environments Neurodivergent strengths Follow the show to make sure you don't miss any episodes! You can also connect with me on Instagram on my show page @NeurodivergentSpot or my professional page @sammarioncounseling . Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.…

Episode Summary: In this episode of Neurodivergent Spot , host Sam Marion speaks with Ellen Busch, a dyslexia advocate, speaker, and mentor, about her journey navigating neurodivergence. Ellen shares how early diagnoses of dyslexia came with low expectations from the education system and how she fought against stigma to redefine her strengths. She discusses the impact of internalized ableism, the vulnerability neurodivergent individuals can face, and the power of reframing dyslexia as a super ability. Through advocacy and mentorship, Ellen now helps others embrace their differences and thrive. Quotes: "When you take away a child’s future and destroy their self-esteem, you change the trajectory of their life." "Dyslexic people are really good at certain things—creative problem-solving, dynamic reasoning, and seeing patterns others miss. To us, they’re obvious." "I had to hit my surrender point before I could let go of the belief that I was broken and start to heal." Contact Information for Ellen Busch: Ellen's Website Instagram: @ellenbusch1500 (dis)Empowered by Ellen Busch Keywords: Dyslexia advocacy Neurodivergence and self-esteem Dyslexia and education stigma Learning differences Creative problem-solving and dyslexia Overcoming neurodivergent trauma Empowering neurodivergent individuals Dyslexia as a strength Landmark College and dyslexia support Healing from childhood stigma Follow the show to make sure you don't miss any episodes! You can also connect with me on Instagram on my show page @NeurodivergentSpot or my professional page @sammarioncounseling . Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.…

Episode Summary In this episode of Neurodivergent Spot , host Sam Marion sits down with Shea Belsky—autistic self-advocate, tech lead at HubSpot, and former startup CTO—to explore the intersections of neurodivergence and the tech industry. Shea shares insights on self-advocacy, workplace communication, and the importance of self-care in high-pressure environments. From navigating career growth to fostering inclusive spaces, this conversation sheds light on what it means to thrive as a neurodivergent professional in tech. Quotes "You are your own best advocate. And that also means you are your own best mindful advocate." "It's not that I'm trying to be a bad communicator—it's that I struggle with this inherently for reasons that may or may not be in my control." "You owe it to yourself to be kind to yourself. Jobs can be stressful, and self-care is key to sustaining a long-term career." Connect with Shea Instagram: @sheabelsky Instagram: @autistic_techie Website: Autistic Techie Keywords Neurodivergence in tech Autistic professionals Workplace inclusion Self-advocacy Disability in the workplace Neurodivergent careers Tech industry Neurodiversity ERG Follow the show to make sure you don't miss any episodes! You can also connect with me on Instagram on my show page @NeurodivergentSpot or my professional page @sammarioncounseling . Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.…

Season 2 of Neurodivergent Spot is here! This season continues to explore the lived experiences of neurodivergent individuals, offering insights into their challenges, triumphs, and unique perspectives. With a mix of structured questions and unexpected twists, each episode provides a behind-the-scenes look at how neurodiversity shapes lives. New episodes drop every Tuesday starting February 18th—subscribe and join the journey! Follow the show to make sure you don't miss any episodes! You can also connect with me on Instagram on my show page @NeurodivergentSpot or my professional page @sammarioncounseling . Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.…

Episode Summary In the final episode of Season 1 of Neurodivergent Spot , host Sam Marion takes the hot seat, answering six thoughtful questions he typically asks his guests. Sam reflects on his personal neurodivergent journey, his motivations for starting the podcast, the themes that emerged during interviews, and his hopes for listeners. With vulnerability and authenticity, he shares what neurodiversity means to him, celebrates the success of the first season, and provides a glimpse into what’s next. Quotes "Neurodiversity is a beautiful thing—it’s about embracing the differences that make us who we are and finding strength in them." "I started this podcast so people could feel seen, heard, and connected through the shared experiences of neurodivergent individuals." "Some successes in my life may seem small to others, but they’re really big deals to me—and that’s what makes them meaningful." Keywords Neurodivergent Spot Neurodiversity Autism ADHD Learning differences Late identification Personal journey Season finale Neurodivergent struggles Podcast reflections Follow the show to make sure you don't miss any episodes! You can also connect with me on Instagram on my show page @NeurodivergentSpot or my professional page @sammarioncounseling . Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.…

Episode Summary In this episode of Neurodivergent Spot , host Sam Marion welcomes Eva Ceja—actor, writer, producer, and late-diagnosed neurodivergent individual. Eva shares her transformative journey of self-awareness, beginning with a major life transition that led to her autism and ADHD diagnoses. Through her passion for acting, Eva explored the human condition, honing her ability to understand and portray others while masking her neurodivergence. Together, Sam and Eva dive into topics such as masking, late diagnoses, systems for thriving as a neurodivergent adult, and the power of self-compassion. Quotes "Acting became my way to study people because I didn’t understand how they worked. It wasn’t until my diagnosis that I realized it was my neurodivergence all along." "I thought I was lazy, but it turns out my brain just works differently. Learning that gave me permission to be kinder to myself." "If I hadn’t been an actor, I wouldn’t have developed the tools to connect with people. Acting was my way of creating systems to survive before I even knew I was neurodivergent." Connect with Eva Instagram: @evaceja Keywords: Neurodivergence Late Autism Diagnosis ADHD in Women Masking and Acting Neurodivergent Systems Self-Awareness Journey ADHD and Creativity Autism Representation Neurodivergent Spot Podcast Follow the show to make sure you don't miss any episodes! You can also connect with me on Instagram on my show page @NeurodivergentSpot or my professional page @sammarioncounseling . Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.…

Summary In this episode of Neurodivergent Spot , host Sam Marion interviews Chris Wenger, a high school speech therapist and advocate for neurodiversity-affirming practices. Chris shares his journey with ADHD, how his lived experience informs his work, and his approach to fostering authentic connections in therapy. From empowering students to embrace their differences to using creative tools like TikTok, Chris highlights the power of authenticity and empathy in building a more inclusive world. Quotes "The authenticity wins the race. It always will." "We’re getting away from neurotypical standards and focusing on what makes each student feel safe and valued." "Just being around others, in your own way, can foster healthy mental health outcomes." Connect with Chris: Website: speechdude.com Instagram: @SpeechDude Podcast: Making the Shift for Autistic Kids Keywords: Neurodivergent Spot ADHD Neurodiversity-affirming practices Authentic connections Neurodivergent students Speech therapy Mental health Empathy Follow the show to make sure you don't miss any episodes! You can also connect with me on Instagram on my show page @NeurodivergentSpot or my professional page @sammarioncounseling . Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.…

Episode Summary In this episode, we sit down with Claire Jordan, a freelance graphic designer and adjunct instructor at the University of Georgia's New Media Institute. Claire, who identifies as both autistic and living with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), shares her journey of self-discovery and how her neurodivergence has shaped her career, creativity, and teaching style. Quotes "Trying to treat OCD as anxiety was like thinking I was making progress, but really just tightening the loops. Once I got the right diagnosis, it felt like I was slowly unraveling those cycles and finding joy." "One of the assets of OCD is thoughtfulness. It can be distressing at times, but it makes you a very thoughtful person, and that’s what I love about art—channeling that into a specific vision and bringing it to life." "Getting diagnosed and talking about it has led to so much more compassion and joy in my life. It’s taken away the shame around things that I once thought made me weird." Connect with Claire Claire Jordan’s work: clairejo.co Follow Claire on Instagram: @clairejo.co Keywords Neurodivergence in creativity Late-diagnosed neurodivergent adult OCD and autism in career paths Freelance graphic designer with OCD Neurodivergent collaboration Creative process and neurodivergence Special interests in neurodivergent adults Autism and OCD self-advocacy Follow the show to make sure you don't miss any episodes! You can also connect with me on Instagram on my show page @NeurodivergentSpot or my professional page @sammarioncounseling. Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.…

Episode Summary In this episode of Neurodivergent Spot , host Sam Marion interviews Maggie Beattie Roberts, an educator, author, and literacy consultant with expertise in ADHD and neurodiversity. Maggie shares her journey to understanding her own ADHD diagnosis, how it has influenced her professional and personal roles, and practical strategies for supporting neurodivergent students in the classroom. From the importance of classroom structure to allowing choice and agency, Maggie offers thoughtful insights and actionable advice for educators and parents alike. Quotes "Now that I have a greater understanding of my own neurodiversity, I can see things in students that I previously missed." "Different bodies need different things in order to pull off focus and regulation." "Don’t underestimate the power of kid watching—just observing a child engage in a task can offer profound insights into their learning process." Connect with Maggie Instagram: @kateandmaggie TikTok: @kateandmaggie Website: kateandmaggie.com Keywords Neurodivergence ADHD Education Classroom strategies Literacy Neurodiversity Executive functioning Student support Parenting Teacher resources Follow the show to make sure you don't miss any episodes! You can also connect with me on Instagram on my show page @NeurodivergentSpot or my professional page @sammarioncounseling . Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.…

Episode Summary: In this episode of the Neurodivergent Spot , host Sam Marion chats with Courtney Peebles, the owner and founder of Solobo Toys. Courtney shares her personal journey of discovering her neurodivergence, which began when her brother was diagnosed with autism, sparking a series of family diagnoses. She discusses how her understanding of her own ADHD, autism, and OCD has informed her approach to creating toys that cater to neurodivergent children while still being enjoyable for all. Courtney also opens up about the challenges she faces as a neurodivergent business owner, balancing her commitment to her family and her mission to design simple, educational toys. This inspiring conversation highlights the values that make Solobo Toys unique and Courtney's dedication to fostering inclusivity and creativity. Shop Solobo Toys Promo code: SAM10 Quotes “When I got diagnosed, I was like, all of this makes sense… it’s enabled me to actually allow myself to be who I am and give more supports to myself.” “We wanted literally simple toys that could allow [children] to look at those educational concepts that they loved… but allow kids the freedom to just be themselves within play.” “We’ve made [family caregiving] our core values… in the business world, that could be seen as a bad thing, but we’ve found that people resonate with what we experience and stay as frequent customers.” Connect with Courtney: Instagram: @solobotoys Website: Solobo Toys Keywords Neurodivergence Autism ADHD Toy design Inclusive play Family-owned business Cerebral palsy Simplicity in play Solobo Toys Resilience Community Neurodivergent challenges Follow the show to make sure you don't miss any episodes! You can also connect with me on Instagram on my show page @NeurodivergentSpot or my professional page @sammarioncounseling . Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.…

Episode Summary In this enlightening episode of Neurodivergent Spot , Sam Marion sits down with Charlie Ocean (they/them), a dynamic speaker, trainer, and consultant specializing in LGBTQ+ allyship and neurodivergent inclusion in the workplace. Charlie shares their journey of self-discovery, from recognizing ADHD and autism through TikTok, to developing inclusive practices in the workplace and beyond. They reflect on their experiences navigating neurodivergence, advocating for LGBTQ+ and neurodivergent individuals, and redefining systems to create spaces of belonging. Charlie also delves into the concept of being "neuroqueer" and its personal significance. Whether you're neurodivergent or an ally, this episode offers valuable insights into fostering inclusive environments for all. Quotes "My neurodivergence, especially my ADHD and autism, shows up in all of my backgrounds, pushing me to think holistically about inclusion—especially in spaces that claim to be progressive but often overlook accessibility needs." "Neuroqueer is my way of articulating the intersection between my neurodivergence and my queerness—it helps me find others at the same intersection and allows me to be the most me possible." "Advocating for yourself as a neurodivergent person is essential because otherwise, you'll end up in environments that aren't good for you, leaving you feeling bitter and resentful." Connect with Charlie Learn more about Charlie Ocean's work at HiCharlieOcean.com , where they offer speaking, training, and consulting services focused on inclusivity for LGBTQ+ and neurodivergent communities. Keywords ADHD and Autism in the Workplace LGBTQ+ Allyship and Neurodivergence Neuroqueer Identity Inclusive Workplace Practices ADHD Diagnosis Journey Autism and Advocacy Neurodivergent Inclusion Charlie Ocean Interview Follow the show to make sure you don't miss any episodes! You can also connect with me on Instagram on my show page @NeurodivergentSpot or my professional page @sammarioncounseling . Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.…

Episode Summary In this insightful episode of Neurodivergent Spot , host Sam Marion sits down with Dr. Taylor Day, a child psychologist specializing in neurodiversity-affirming care for autistic children and their families. With over a decade of experience, Dr. Tay shares her journey, from growing up with an autistic brother to becoming a leading advocate for strength-based, individualized therapy. Dr. Tay emphasizes the importance of recognizing the child as a human first and building strategies that promote autonomy, self-advocacy, and a better quality of life. Quotes “We need to see the human first, understand their strengths, and focus on how to improve their quality of life.” “It’s about meeting the child where they are and ensuring the therapy is collaborative, not adult-led.” “Vulnerability is the connection point we need as humans, especially in therapy.” Connect with Dr. Tay: Instagram: @the.dr.tay Website: Dr. Taylor Day Podcast: Evolve with Dr. Tay Keywords: Neurodiversity-affirming care Child psychologist Dr. Tay Autism and therapy Parent coaching for autism Strength-based therapy for autistic children Evidence-based practices vs. neurodiversity Child-led exposure therapy Autistic self-advocacy in therapy Neurodivergent Spot podcast Follow the show to make sure you don't miss any episodes! You can also connect with me on Instagram on my show page @NeurodivergentSpot or my professional page @sammarioncounseling. Hosted by Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.…