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Designing for the Neurodivergent Mind: Creating Inclusive Spaces That Heal

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Content provided by April Ratchford MS OT/L. All podcast content including episodes, graphics, and podcast descriptions are uploaded and provided directly by April Ratchford MS OT/L or their podcast platform partner. If you believe someone is using your copyrighted work without your permission, you can follow the process outlined here https://ppacc.player.fm/legal.

Hey friends! ✨ In this episode of Adulting with Autism, I’m joined by Stephanie Lee Jackson, founder of Practical Sanctuary and creator of the groundbreaking field of sensory interior design.

Stephanie is on a mission to make every space—homes, offices, classrooms, and even public buildings—neuro-inclusive, emotionally supportive, and sensory-safe. And guess what? You don’t need a big budget or an HGTV crew to create a calming space tailored to your unique brain.

🎨 What we cover in this episode:

  • How clutter, light, sound & smell can trigger overwhelm

  • The hidden toll of inaccessible spaces for neurodivergent folks

  • How to create a sensory sanctuary without blowing your budget

  • Why your nervous system deserves a home that feels safe

  • Her journey from artist and massage therapist to trauma-informed designer

If you’ve ever felt drained by your own space—or never felt at home in the world around you—this episode will open your eyes to the possibility of healing through environment.

🪑 Work with Stephanie: 🌐 practicalsanctuary.com 💌 Free resource: Download Stephanie’s starter guide to building your own sensory-friendly space 📸 IG: @practicalsanctuary 📘 Coming soon: The Eccentric Genius Habitat Intervention: Interior Design for Highly Sensitive People – 2025

☕ Support this podcast via Buy Me a Coffee 🎁 Join our Discord—1,000th member wins $100 + exclusive merch 🎧 Listen on Podbean | Spotify | Apple Podcasts | YouTube

💬 COMMENT: What’s one change in your space that helped your brain feel calmer? 🔔 FOLLOW for more empowering convos around neurodivergence, self-design, and adulting your own way.

#SensoryInteriorDesign #StephanieLeeJackson #NeurodivergentSpaces #AdultingWithAutism #InclusiveDesign #SensoryAccessibility #NeurodivergentHome #HealingEnvironments #SponsorReadyContent #MentalWellnessDesign #NeurodivergentSupport #PodMatch


Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/adulting-with-autism/donations
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144 episodes

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Content provided by April Ratchford MS OT/L. All podcast content including episodes, graphics, and podcast descriptions are uploaded and provided directly by April Ratchford MS OT/L or their podcast platform partner. If you believe someone is using your copyrighted work without your permission, you can follow the process outlined here https://ppacc.player.fm/legal.

Hey friends! ✨ In this episode of Adulting with Autism, I’m joined by Stephanie Lee Jackson, founder of Practical Sanctuary and creator of the groundbreaking field of sensory interior design.

Stephanie is on a mission to make every space—homes, offices, classrooms, and even public buildings—neuro-inclusive, emotionally supportive, and sensory-safe. And guess what? You don’t need a big budget or an HGTV crew to create a calming space tailored to your unique brain.

🎨 What we cover in this episode:

  • How clutter, light, sound & smell can trigger overwhelm

  • The hidden toll of inaccessible spaces for neurodivergent folks

  • How to create a sensory sanctuary without blowing your budget

  • Why your nervous system deserves a home that feels safe

  • Her journey from artist and massage therapist to trauma-informed designer

If you’ve ever felt drained by your own space—or never felt at home in the world around you—this episode will open your eyes to the possibility of healing through environment.

🪑 Work with Stephanie: 🌐 practicalsanctuary.com 💌 Free resource: Download Stephanie’s starter guide to building your own sensory-friendly space 📸 IG: @practicalsanctuary 📘 Coming soon: The Eccentric Genius Habitat Intervention: Interior Design for Highly Sensitive People – 2025

☕ Support this podcast via Buy Me a Coffee 🎁 Join our Discord—1,000th member wins $100 + exclusive merch 🎧 Listen on Podbean | Spotify | Apple Podcasts | YouTube

💬 COMMENT: What’s one change in your space that helped your brain feel calmer? 🔔 FOLLOW for more empowering convos around neurodivergence, self-design, and adulting your own way.

#SensoryInteriorDesign #StephanieLeeJackson #NeurodivergentSpaces #AdultingWithAutism #InclusiveDesign #SensoryAccessibility #NeurodivergentHome #HealingEnvironments #SponsorReadyContent #MentalWellnessDesign #NeurodivergentSupport #PodMatch


Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/adulting-with-autism/donations
  continue reading

144 episodes

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In this powerful episode of Adulting with Autism , I’m joined by Clain Udy —corporate leader, autism dad, speaker, and author of Rebranding Autism . Clain shares how a strengths-based approach transformed his own son’s path and sparked the creation of First Ascent , a groundbreaking 12-week program helping autistic young adults align their careers with who they really are. 🎧 We unpack: Why strength identity matters more than fixing deficits How neurodivergent minds can thrive in the right career environments Why parents, schools, and therapists must shift from fear to future-forward planning How to test real-world job fit without setting kids up to fail Whether you're an autistic young adult, parent, educator, or therapist, this episode is full of actionable insights to launch futures—not just manage symptoms. 🧠 Learn more about First Ascent and grab Clain’s book Rebranding Autism at autismelevated.com 🎁 Still time to join our Discord! We’re doing a giveaway for our 1,000th member —you could win a $100 Visa gift card + exclusive Adulting with Autism merch ! 👉 Join here 🎙️ Don't forget to: ✅ Follow & subscribe ✅ Drop a review ✅ Share this episode with your favorite OT, parent, or neurodivergent rockstar 🛍️ Support the pod using our affiliate links & shop podcast gear: → https://linktr.ee/adultingwithautism → Buy Me A Coffee 📱Let’s connect: Instagram: @adulting_autism YouTube: Adulting with Autism Podcast Hey there! Ever feel like the autism narrative needs a major refresh? Well, you're in for a treat! Join us on Adulting with Autism as we chat with Clain Udy, an incredible advocate with personal and professional insights into autism. As the father of an autistic adult and the author of Rebranding Autism , Clain shares his journey of refocusing on strengths instead of deficits. Discover how his 12-week program, First Ascent, is guiding autistic young adults and their families towards fulfilling careers and independence. Whether you're a parent, therapist, or young adult on the spectrum, this episode is a must-listen! Clain dives into why aligning careers with personal strengths is the key to lasting independence and what schools and therapists might be missing. So, grab your favorite drink, no judgment here, and let's change the way the world sees autism together! Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/adulting-with-autism/donations…
 
Feeling stuck in your head? It might be time to listen to your body. In this powerful episode of Adulting with Autism , we’re joined by Ellen Slater , somatic therapist, author, and founder of the Head & Heart Healing Model . Ellen takes us on a gentle but transformational journey through somatic therapy, helping us understand how trauma, especially in autistic and neurodivergent bodies , lives not just in memory—but in our nervous systems. We unpack trauma bonding, emotional shutdown, and the real reason talk therapy alone often isn't enough. Ellen also shares accessible tools to start your healing—like her favorite micro-practice: "Quiet the mind, open the heart" while brushing your teeth. Whether you’re autistic, ADHD, highly sensitive, or just overwhelmed by life’s chaos, this episode is your permission to slow down, feel more, and heal deeply. 🎧 You’ll Learn : Why your body reacts before your brain How trauma bonding forms (and how to break it) Tips for integrating somatic awareness into everyday life Why neurodivergent adults often carry unprocessed sensory trauma 💡 Ellen’s Offerings : Learn more about Head & Heart Healing at ellenslater.com Join her monthly virtual community and retreats Follow Ellen on Instagram: @headandheartwise 🎁 BONUS : We’re still running our Discord giveaway! Be our 1,000th member and win a $100 Visa Gift Card + exclusive podcast merch . Join now: Discord 🛒 Support the show by checking out our affiliates: Buy Me A Coffee 📘 Ellen’s upcoming book & retreat guides 📲 Follow & connect with us : IG: @adulting_autism FaceBook: Adulting with Autism 👉 Listen now and start your somatic journey toward healing. Don't forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with someone who needs to hear it. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/adulting-with-autism/donations…
 
Hey guys, hey—happy Wednesday! Welcome back to Adulting with Autism , the podcast where we say goodbye to “normal” and hello to neurodivergent brilliance. This week, we’re diving deep into the power of self-talk—not the scary, spiraling kind, but the kind that unlocks real transformation. We’re joined by David Alan Brown , a spiritual teacher, identity coach, and truth-teller who helps people move from stuck to soul-powered. In this episode, David shares how reclaiming your inner dialogue can lead to emotional clarity, freedom from perfectionism, and finally stepping into your purpose—no glitter, just grounded growth. 👉 Whether you’re navigating autism, anxiety, or just adulting, this episode is your permission slip to live with intention and truth. We’re talking practical tools, emotional honesty, and why authenticity isn’t just another buzzword. ✨ Plus! We’re celebrating our 1,000th Discord member with a $100 Visa gift card giveaway and exclusive podcast merch ! Join our Discord now → https://linktr.ee/adultingwithautism 🌀 Connect with David Alan Brown: 📸 Instagram: @theauthordavidalanbrown 🌐 Website: https://www.davidalanbrown.com 🎥 LinkedIn: thewriterdab Facebook: david.a.brown.940 💬 Let’s stay connected: 📲 Follow the show on IG: @adulting_autism 🎥 Watch full episodes + clips: Adulting with Autism Podcast 🛍️ Shop podcast merch: [Insert affiliate link] 🎙️ Support the show: Buy Me A Coffee 🎧 Tune in now and discover how to rewrite your inner script, one truth at a time. Grab your favorite drink, hit play, and let’s get into the real, raw magic of becoming YOU. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/adulting-with-autism/donations…
 
🔥 Ever dreamt of quitting the 9-to-5 grind and radically rewriting your life? Meet Jamie Gantt — former corporate climber turned world-traveling coach, speaker, and soon-to-be author of Becoming Myself. In this soul-stirring episode of Adulting with Autism, Jamie unpacks what it means to burn it all down to build a life rooted in purpose, especially as a neurodivergent woman reclaiming her voice. 🧠 We talk: Why burnout is your body’s wisdom, not failure Redefining success outside neurotypical expectations Why journaling is one of the most powerful tools for healing How to honor your rhythm when the world moves too fast 💡 Whether you’re neurodivergent, neurocurious, or just plain exhausted from being everything to everyone, Jamie’s story offers a map back to your real self. ✨ Mentioned in this episode: Jamie’s coaching & speaker offerings → https://www.jamiegantt.com Upcoming book Becoming Myself (preorder link soon!) 👉 Let’s connect: Follow Jamie on IG: @radicallyalive Jamie's website: Radically Alive Coaching Follow the podcast: @adulting_autism Subscribe & review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen 🎧 🧡 Your transformation starts now. Press play, take notes, and don’t be afraid to burn what no longer fits. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/adulting-with-autism/donations…
 
Hey guys, hey! It’s April—your favorite autistic OT and host of Adulting with Autism, the podcast that believes life skills are sexy and your home should feel like peace, not pressure. In today’s heart-expanding episode, we’re joined by Helen Sanderson, the UK’s leading clutter therapist and author of The Secret Life of Clutter. Helen brings years of therapeutic insight to explore how our outer environments reflect our inner worlds—especially for those with autism, ADHD, and trauma. Whether it’s the laundry chair judging you or a garage full of “I’ll-get-to-it-laters,” Helen helps us reframe clutter as a story of emotional protection, grief, and overwhelm. She shares: 🧠 Why clutter is rarely laziness—and often a trauma response 🛋️ How to begin decluttering without shame or sensory overload 🤝 Tips for managing shared spaces when your partner… just doesn’t get it 🌱 Why neurodivergent-friendly homes must support—not stress—the nervous system ✨ Featured Resources 📚 The Secret Life of Clutter – https://amzn.to/3GU9TNS 🛠️ Explore Helen’s decluttering kits & sanctuary-making tools at helensanderson.com 🧩 Connect With Us & Support the Show! ✨ Follow the podcast on Instagram: @adulting_autism ✨ Follow April: @adulting_autism 💌 Join the newsletter for episode alerts, freebies & behind-the-scenes: Sign Up Here 📲 Subscribe, rate & leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify—it helps others find our neurodivergent-friendly space and keeps this mission going. So grab your drink of choice (no judgment), and let’s welcome Helen Sanderson to the Adulting with Autism podcast. Let’s clear the clutter—in our homes and our hearts. 💛 Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/adulting-with-autism/donations…
 
Hey there, beautiful soul! 🌟 Ready for a raw and powerful conversation that will inspire you to show up as your authentic self? In this episode of Adulting with Autism, we sit down with Reverend Jocelyn Jones—author, speaker, ordained minister, and founder of Faith on the Journey —as she takes us on a transformative journey through faith, identity, emotional healing, and the courage to remove the mask. 💬 Topics We Cover: Breaking free from societal and cultural masking Navigating life as a Black woman with autism Healing childhood trauma and confronting generational pain Reclaiming your identity through Christ and self-awareness Growing your emotional intelligence and learning to set boundaries This is for every listener who's ever felt misunderstood, pressured to perform, or disconnected from their true self. Whether you're neurodivergent, navigating grief, or rethinking your faith—you belong here. 📚 Grab Jocelyn’s Book 👉 Breaking the Power of the Mask – Amazon Affiliate Link 📘 Download Her Free Healing Workbook 👉 JocelynJJones.com ☕ Support the Podcast 👉 Buy Me a Coffee 🔗 Stay Connected: 🎧 Subscribe: Adulting With Autism on Apple, Spotify, Podbean & more 📲 IG: @adulting_autism 📲 Follow Jocelyn: @jocelynjjonesofficial 🌐 Website: www.jocelynjjones.com ✨ Don't forget to rate, follow, and share this episode to help others on their healing and identity journey. Your story isn’t over—it's just getting real. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/adulting-with-autism/donations…
 
Hey guys, hey – happy Wednesday! I’m April, your favorite autistic OT and host of Adulting with Autism – the podcast where life skills are sexy, healing is real, and neurodivergent voices finally get the mic. Whether you're a parent guiding your autistic young adult or you're that young adult figuring it out one meltdown and meme at a time, this is your judgment-free zone to laugh, learn, and level up. 🧠💬 In today’s episode, we’re diving deep with Frank Healy, one of only 100 people on the planet diagnosed with hyperthymesia—aka he remembers every single day of his life since age six. Yep. Every. Single. Day. From '60s Batman episodes to heartbreaks and healing, Frank’s memory is like Google Calendar with emotional receipts. 🎙️ What we unpacked with Frank: How to release emotional baggage tied to traumatic memories Why healing your past matters more than hiding it How to break free from the victim mindset and reclaim your narrative The science of memory, self-talk, and mental wellness Why journaling is still free, effective, and totally underrated (seriously—just try it) If your brain feels overloaded—in a good way—you’re not alone. ✨ Let’s keep this neuro-spicy conversation going. 💡 Mentioned in this episode: 📘 Heal Your Memories, Change Your Life – Support the show by using our Amazon affiliate link here ☕ Love the podcast? Fuel it with a Buy Me a Coffee 💬 Join our free https://linktr.ee/adultingwithautism 📢 Adulting with Autism is now in the Top 50 on Apple Podcasts (Education)—let’s break the top 15 and shake up a system that still isn’t talking enough about autistic adults. Smash that follow on Podbean or your favorite podcast app, and please leave a 5-star review on Apple if you cried, healed, or laughed harder than expected. 👉 Share this episode with someone who overthinks everything (you know the one) – because healing doesn't mean erasing the memory, just releasing the emotion. Until next time, keep adulting with autism, and remember—emotions don’t expire, but healing is always an option. ✨ We believe in real stories, real conversations, and real change. If you think your journey could inspire autistic young adults or their families, I’d love to hear from you. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/adulting-with-autism/donations…
 
Feeling stuck in fear? You're not alone — and this episode with life coach Eric Simpson will help you break free. After leaving a high-powered corporate job in the U.S., Eric took a leap of faith (literally — he skydives!) and rebuilt his life in the U.K., helping others conquer fear and design bold, fulfilling lives. If you're autistic, ADHD, or neurodivergent, and fear keeps blocking your next step, this episode is your permission slip to dream bigger. We unpack how to reframe fear, shift your mindset, and take bold action—even if the first step feels impossible. 🧠✨ We’re now ranked Top 15 on Apple Podcasts in Education — let’s raise more autistic and neurodivergent voices together. Eric Simpson's Website https://www.facebook.com/eric.simpson.58323431 https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCWcA5AmAn5aWarLh5DIktyw https://www.linkedin.com/in/ericmsimpson/ https://www.tiktok.com/@ericsimpsoncoaching 🔥 Affiliate Bonus & Community Links: 🎁 Join our Discord for giveaways and behind-the-scenes chats: https://linktr.ee/adultingwithautism ☕ Love the show? Fuel it at Buy Me a Coffee : 👉 Follow, rate, and review so we can keep amplifying real conversations that matter. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/adulting-with-autism/donations…
 
Hey guys, hey! 💛 It’s the final day of our 30 Days of Content celebrating Autism Awareness and OT Month, and we’re closing things out with a true pioneer in the field: Dr. Robert Melillo. Dr. Melillo is the author of Disconnected Kids, co-founder of Brain Balance Achievement Centers, creator of the Melillo Method®, and host of the Everything Brain podcast. With over 35 years of experience as a clinician, researcher, and professor, he’s helped transform how we understand and support neurological development in both children and adults. 🎧 In this episode, we discuss: The brain-body connection in autism, ADHD, OCD & more Why brain imbalances—not damage—are often the root issue How the Melillo Method helps retrain the brain non-invasively What makes Disconnected Kids a timeless resource Insights for autistic adults seeking brain-based interventions Whether you’re a parent, caregiver, OT, or neurodivergent adult—this conversation is full of scientific insight and genuine hope. 📘 Grab the updated edition of Disconnected Kids → https://amzn.to/4jRhYkI 🧠 Learn more about Dr. Melillo’s work: DrRobertMelillo.com 📱 Follow him @DrRobertMelillo on all major platforms 📩 Contact: drm@DrRobertMelillo.com | 📞 (516) 398-3454 🎧 Listen to The Melillo Method Podcast: Everything Brain 🎉 Join our Discord Giveaway! 💬 Be the 1,000th member and win a $100 Visa gift card + exclusive merch → https://linktr.ee/adultingwithautism ☕ Love this content? Support the show at BuyMeACoffee.com/AdultingAutism and help us keep going strong. Every bit goes to content, community, and caffeination. 😉 🗓️ We’re now back to our regular schedule—new episodes every Wednesday and Saturday. Thank you for joining us during this incredible month. Your support made this possible. Until next time... Keep adulting. Keep growing. And keep believing in your brain. 🧠💛 Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/adulting-with-autism/donations…
 
Hey friend! 🌟 Ready to see how technology is transforming autism support from the inside out? In this episode of Adulting with Autism, we’re joined by Amanda Ralston—award-winning behavior analyst, international speaker, and founder of NonBinary Solutions and Noetic.ai. After 25 years in traditional ABA therapy, Amanda made a bold shift—trading clinics for code to build tech-driven, data-informed, neurodivergent-affirming tools that actually meet people where they are. 🧠 What we cover in this episode: Why Amanda left the ABA field to pursue something radically different The problem with one-size-fits-all autism interventions How her platforms use machine learning and clinical insight to personalize support What families, clinicians, and neurodivergent adults need most right now How to ethically collect and apply data to support autistic individuals beyond childhood Amanda’s work is revolutionizing how we think about autism care—moving away from outdated models and toward empowerment through technology. 📲 Connect with Amanda Ralston: 🌐 nonbinarysolutions.com 🤖 Explore Noetic: noetic.ai 💼 Speaker & media: amandarlston.com 📱 IG & LinkedIn: @amandarlston 📰 Sign up for updates on pilot programs & beta tools 🎧 Also available on Spotify | Apple | Podbean ☕ Support the show via Buy Me a Coffee 🧩 FTC Affiliate Disclaimer: This episode may contain affiliate links that support our work at no additional cost to you. 💬 COMMENT: What would a tech-empowered autism future look like for you or your family? 👍 LIKE if you believe innovation belongs in the autism world 🔔 FOLLOW for weekly conversations that bridge neurodivergence, inclusion, and innovation #AmandaRalston #NoeticAI #AutismTech #NeurodivergentSupport #AutismInnovation #NonBinarySolutions #AdultingWithAutism #DigitalHealthForAutism #ABAAlternatives #AutismCare2025 #NeurodiversityAndTech #PodMatch Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/adulting-with-autism/donations…
 
Hey there, friends! 💛 Pull up a chair and get comfy, because today’s episode of Adulting with Autism is packed with inspiration and real-world advice! We’re thrilled to welcome Ed Roe, Program Director at CIP Bloomington. With over two decades in K-12 education—and a personal connection to autism through his own son—Ed brings a deep, heartfelt understanding to the journey of building independent, confident lives for autistic young adults. 🎓 In this empowering conversation, you’ll discover: The 40-year legacy of the College Internship Program (CIP) How CIP Bloomington empowers students through life skills, academics, and career development Tips for young adults navigating the transition to independent living Why community integration, public transportation, and vocational coaching are game-changers for success Whether you're a parent preparing your teen for adulthood or a neurodivergent young adult wondering what’s next, this episode is packed with encouragement, resources, and tangible steps forward. 🌟 ✨ Resources & Affiliates: 🌐 Learn more about CIP’s programs: CIPWorldwide.org 🎁 Join our Discord Giveaway! 🎉 Be the 1,000th member and win a $100 Visa gift card + exclusive podcast merch → linktr.ee/adultingwithautism ☕ Support the Podcast! Fuel more conversations like this at BuyMeACoffee 🗓️ Reminder: We're back to new episodes every Wednesday and Saturday starting May 3rd! 🎧 Love this episode? Please follow, review, and share it with someone navigating the path to independence. Together, let’s empower the next generation of neurodivergent leaders—one step at a time. 🚀 Until next time... Keep adulting. Keep believing. And keep moving forward. 💛 Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/adulting-with-autism/donations…
 
Hey there, friends! 💛 Welcome back to Adulting with Autism! Today, I had the absolute pleasure of sitting down with Sylvia Moore Myers—the powerful voice behind GoldScars.com and author of Gold Scars. After enduring unimaginable trauma, including the heartbreaking loss of her teenage son, Sylvia embarked on an 18-year healing journey that’s nothing short of inspiring. Her mission? To show us that healing isn’t about “getting over” pain—it’s about growing through it and transforming our scars into pure gold. 🌟 🎧 In this powerful episode, we dive into: How trauma physically imprints itself on the body and mind How grief intersects with neurodivergence Why owning, naming, and mending your scars is the ultimate act of self-love How young adults can heal without repeating painful patterns Whether you’re navigating grief, trauma, autism, or just working on your own healing, Sylvia’s message is a reminder that brokenness isn’t the end—it’s the beginning of becoming something even stronger. ✨ Resources & Affiliates: 📚 Get your copy of Gold Scars here → [Affiliate Link] 🌐 Learn more about Sylvia’s work at GoldScars.com 🎁 Join our Discord Giveaway! 🎉 Be the 1,000th member and win a $100 Visa gift card + exclusive merch → linktr.ee/adultingwithautism ☕ Feeling inspired? Support the show at BuyMeACoffee 🗓️ Reminder: We’re back to our regular schedule—new episodes every Wednesday and Saturday starting May 3rd! If this episode touched your heart, follow the show, leave a review, and share with someone who needs a little reminder that their story isn’t over—it's just getting golden. Until next time... Keep adulting. Keep growing. And keep turning your scars into gold. 💛✨ Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/adulting-with-autism/donations…
 
Hey friend! Ever worked in a place that felt more like survival than success? You’re not alone—and today’s guest, Kelsey Neff, is here to flip the script. Kelsey is the founder of By Design Consulting, author of 52 Weeks of Impact, and a former nonprofit professional who left the burnout hamster wheel to help leaders actually lead. After years of navigating toxic workplaces filled with favoritism, gaslighting, and burnout, Kelsey realized something big: she didn’t need to play the game—she could create a better one. 🎧 In this episode, we cover: The red flags of toxic work culture (and what to do about them) How neurodivergent employees are often the first to feel the cracks in poor leadership The power of conscious leadership and trauma-informed teams Why most companies confuse “policy” with “culture” How to quit with integrity and never lose your values Whether you're an emerging leader, neurodivergent worker, or just ready to reclaim your energy, this conversation is full of validation, insight, and practical steps to build better workplaces. 📘 Grab Kelsey’s book 52 Weeks of Impact here → https://amzn.to/3YbT2fl 🌐 Learn more: https://bydesignconsulting.space 📱 Follow Kelsey on IG @bydesignconsulting_bdc 📩 Book a consult or leadership training → drm@bydesignconsulting.space Support the podcast with BuyMeACoffee 🛒 Use affiliate code ADULTING10 for 10% off her digital resources! ✨ Don't forget to hit follow, leave a review, and share this episode with someone navigating their own leadership (or leaving) journey. 🗓️ New episodes every Wednesday + Saturday. Until next time... keep adulting—and keep building better. 💼🧠 Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/adulting-with-autism/donations…
 
Hey there, friend! 💃 In today’s inspiring episode of Adulting with Autism, we step into a space where movement meets neurodivergent empowerment—the incredible Autistic Wings Dance Company, a nonprofit studio founded by mother-daughter duo Amanda and Leta in Colorado Springs. Autistic Wings isn’t your average dance program—it’s a trauma-informed, sensory-aware space built by and for autistic dancers. From ballet to hip-hop, every class is designed with neurodivergent communication, learning styles, and sensory needs in mind—no masking, no pressure, just expression. 🩰 What we talk about: Why traditional dance studios often fail autistic dancers How Autistic Wings created the first IEP-style adaptive dance curriculum The emotional impact of being seen—and not shoved to the side Why therapists are now recommending dance as an alternative form of expression Their mission to expand into a larger, sensory-safe space to serve even more dancers Whether you're an autism parent, educator, or just someone who believes in inclusion with soul, this episode will move you—literally and emotionally. 🌐 Support Autistic Wings Dance Company: 📍 autisticwingsdancecompany.org 🎁 Donate or sponsor a class to keep tuition affordable for ALL neurodivergent dancers 🎧 Listen to Amanda & Leta’s podcast: Leta's Tap Styles 📸 Follow on TikTok & IG: @AutisticWingsDance | @LetaTapStyles ☕ Love the show? Fuel us on Buy Me a Coffee 🎁 Join our Discord—1,000th member wins $100 + exclusive podcast merch 📲 Subscribe on Spotify | Apple | YouTube | Podbean 💬 COMMENT: What kind of support would you have loved as a neurodivergent kid? 🔔 FOLLOW for more episodes featuring neurodivergent creators, change-makers, and trailblazers #AutisticWings #NeurodivergentDance #AdaptiveDance #AutismInclusion #LetaTapStyles #InclusiveMovement #AutismParenting #SensoryFriendlyPrograms #AutismSupport #SponsorReadyPodcast #AdultingWithAutism #PodMatch Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/adulting-with-autism/donations…
 
Hey there, friend! 🌟 Ever feel stuck in cycles of rumination, avoidance, or emotional shutdown—and wonder why you can’t just “snap out of it”? In this powerful episode of Adulting with Autism, we sit down with Dr. Foojan Zeine—renowned psychotherapist, international speaker, and the creator of Awareness Integration Theory (AIT) and the Foojan App. Whether you’re autistic, neurodivergent, or simply navigating your own healing, Dr. Foojan offers science-backed insights into how trauma, negative self-talk, and masking affect our minds—and what we can do to reclaim peace and clarity. 🧠 In this episode, we explore: Why rumination and addiction are common coping mechanisms for autistic adults The real reason masking drains your mental health How AIT reduces anxiety and depression by up to 70% What happens when you turn your phone into your emotional regulation coach The power of journaling, reflection, and reframing—especially for neurodivergent brains Dr. Foojan breaks down complex psychology into tools anyone can apply, making this episode a must-listen for therapists, caregivers, and anyone seeking emotional clarity and lasting transformation. 📲 Try the Foojan App: Available now on Apple App Store and Google Play 🧠 Includes 31 life modules, from trauma recovery to self-esteem 📘 FTC Affiliate Disclaimer: We may earn a small commission if you download using the links above—at no cost to you. Your support helps amplify neurodivergent voices! 📚 Learn more at www.foojan.com 🎧 Listen to Inner Voice: A Heartfelt Chat with Dr. Foojan 💼 Book her for trainings, workshops, or therapy consultation ☕ Love this podcast? Support via Buy Me a Coffee 🎁 Join our Discord—1,000th member wins a $100 Visa gift card + exclusive merch 🎧 Stream on Spotify | Apple Podcasts | YouTube | Podbean 💬 COMMENT: What emotion are you ready to finally process and let go of? 🔔 FOLLOW for more episodes blending real-life neurodivergence with radical healing tools #DrFoojanZeine #AwarenessIntegrationTheory #TraumaRecovery #AutismAndMentalHealth #EmotionalRegulationApp #NeurodivergentHealing #SelfDiscoveryTools #SponsorFriendlyPodcast #AdultingWithAutism #MentalHealthTech #PodMatch Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/adulting-with-autism/donations…
 
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