Episode 81: Jacob Kness

Focus and Chill - productivity tactics for AuDHDers and other neurodivergent folks

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Welcome to episode #81! We’re thrilled to be joined by Jacob Kness today.

Jacob Kness is a social entrepreneur and project manager dedicated to improving autism employment opportunities. Diagnosed with autism, ADHD, and Tourette’s after experiencing a childhood stroke, Jacob has spent years navigating the intersection of neurodiversity and the workplace.

Through his work at Asperger’s Victoria, he supports autistic job seekers by equipping them with skills, confidence, and opportunities for sustainable employment. In addition, his social enterprise Doughnuts provides hands-on employment experience, helping autistic individuals build real-world work skills.

In this episode, we discuss autism and ADHD in the workplace, balancing structure with flexibility, and how to create sustainable career opportunities for neurodivergent professionals.

Welcome to the show, Jacob!

Questions

JN: You were diagnosed quite early—what was that journey like?

Had a stroke at five, which led to multiple diagnoses (autism, ADHD, epilepsy, Tourette’s)
Struggled with acceptance, fought against diagnosis in early years
Learned to reframe ADHD as a strength rather than a limitation

JN: How did autism and ADHD impact your school experience?

Faced behavioral challenges, moved through multiple schools
ADHD-driven impulsivity made structure difficult, but autism provided a counterbalance
A teacher with personal experience in neurodiversity made a huge impact

JN: What led you to entrepreneurship?

Left school at year 9, became a baker, then transitioned into social entrepreneurship
Wanted to create the support system he wished he had growing up
Built Doughnuts as a way to provide structured employment for autistic individuals

JN: What do you do at Asperger’s Victoria?

Manages employment support programs for autistic job seekers
Teaches skills like resume writing, interview prep, and workplace adaptation
Works with major employers (e.g., ANZ Bank) to create neurodivergent-friendly hiring pipelines

JN: How do you balance structure and flexibility in work?

Uses structured routines but allows flexibility for hyperfocus bursts
Adapts productivity strategies depending on whether autism or ADHD traits are more dominant that day
Believes in structured work environments but rejects the idea of rigid work-life balance

JN: How do you prevent burnout while managing multiple projects?

Focuses on projects of significance—work that aligns with personal values
Uses exercise and self-discipline to maintain mental and physical resilience
Finds fulfillment in building businesses that create lasting change

JN: What productivity strategies work best for you?

Uses CliftonStrengths to understand and lean into natural talents
Limits distractions and builds work environments that encourage focus
Schedules gaming and downtime intentionally to avoid getting sucked into hyperfixations

JN: What does your morning routine look like?

Wakes up early, goes to the gym (a non-negotiable part of his routine)
Uses mornings for deep work or creative writing before distractions kick in
Prioritizes movement and proactive tasks to start the day strong

JN: How do you wind down at night?

Limits entertainment time to two hours to avoid excessive screen time
Uses deep breathing, journaling, and relaxation techniques when possible
Focuses on structured relaxation rather than mindless scrolling

JN: Where can people connect with you?

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jacob-alan-kness/
Email: [email protected]
Asperger’s Victoria Website: https://aspergersvic.org.au/employment
Doughnuts Business: Visit at Acuna Park Market

JN: Final words for the audience?

"Stop fighting change. Embrace discomfort and lean into self-acceptance."
"Small steps lead to transformation. My first step was the gym—it changed everything."