Season 1, Episode 12 - The Problem Was Never You

Episode Description

Welcome back to Left Unattended with Ron Sosa, where we explore neurodivergence, identity inclusion, and the quiet systems that need disrupting. In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Jodi Wilson, an autism researcher and speaker, who shares her powerful experiences navigating the world as a neurodivergent individual. This conversation dives into the challenges faced in the workplace, the emotional toll of chronic masking, and the critical role of curiosity in fostering inclusion. If you've ever felt out of place in a world that wasn’t built with you in mind, Dr. Wilson’s insights are bound to resonate deeply.

What We Cover

- How neurodivergent individuals are often labeled as 'the problem' and why that perspective needs disrupting

- What chronic masking does to your mental health and why it's different from typical burnout

- Why curiosity is a powerful tool for bridging communication gaps between neurodivergent and neurotypical people

- How Dr. Jodi Wilson's personal journey in veterinary medicine underscores these systemic issues

- The role of cultural humility in communication and how a lack of it led to being "kidnapped" by Turkish sailors

Key Takeaway

Neurodivergence isn't the problem; the systems and norms that exclude us are. By rethinking these systems and using curiosity as a tool for inclusion, we can begin to rebuild environments that recognize and value diverse ways of thinking and being.

The Shift in Practice

When facing challenges as a neurodivergent individual, try this approach:

1. Identify and acknowledge situations where you feel labeled or out of place.
2. Reflect on your needs and communicate them — create a dialogue that fosters understanding rather than judgment.
3. Practice curiosity over judgment in your interactions, transforming potential conflicts into opportunities for growth.

Who This Episode Is For

This episode is for anyone who has felt out of sync in a neurotypical world, particularly neurodivergent individuals seeking validation and allies who wish to understand the challenges of masking, burnout, and the need for systemic change.

Connect

If this conversation struck a chord and you want to explore how you can lead more inclusively, subscribe to Ron’s newsletter at www.syn-apt.me/newsletter. To dive deeper into coaching with Ron, visit coaching.syn-apt.me. Explore more about Dr. Jodi Wilson’s work on neuro inclusion by checking the show notes. Enjoyed the episode? Follow the podcast and leave a review to help others find these important conversations. Remember, belonging isn't a luxury — it’s a leadership strategy.