Best Empowering Neurodiverse Students Podcasts (2025)

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Summer by Design: Crafting a Pre-College Plan for Grades 6–12 17:07

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24d ago17:07

17:07

In this episode of BE EVOLVED, Mary lays out a clear, step-by-step roadmap for building a bespoke summer plan that actually moves the needle for students in grades 6–12. You'll learn why summer experiences matter for growth, skills, and college admissions; how to complete a smart intake (interests, logistics, budget); and our three-step method — Wh…

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Autism, Sexuality, and the Power of Neuroculture w/ Candice Christiansen (Season 2 Finale) 46:52

2M ago46:52

46:52

In the season finale of season 2, Mike and Chaya sit down with Candice Christiansen, a leading voice at the intersection of neurodiversity, trauma, and intimacy, for a conversation that gets existential—and a little bit weird. The three explore the sacred energy of creation, the challenge of healing in a world that isn't always helpful, and what it…

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Montessori Magic: How Freedom-Based Learning Supports ADHD and Autistic Children w/ Rupali Sharma 47:04

2M ago47:04

47:04

Mike and Chaya sit down with Rupali Sharma, founder and director of The T.E.C. Schools in Worcester, Massachusetts, who shares her journey from architecture to Montessori education, revealing how autonomy, observation, and child-centered learning create environments where neurodivergent children thrive without labels or limitations. We Also Cover: …

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One Size Fits One: Derek Crager on Diagnosis, Design, and Doing Different 48:07

2M ago48:07

48:07

Mike and Chaya sit down with Derek Crager to discuss his journey of being late-diagnosed AuDHDer, how embracing his neurodivergence led him from the manufacturing floor to building transformative accessible AI tools for the neurodivergent community, and what it truly means to create human-centered technology that actually fits. We Also Cover: How r…

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How Generational Trauma Shapes Your Life w/ Anu Dayal-Gulati 44:50

2M ago44:50

44:50

Mike and Chaya sit down with Anu Dayal-Gulati, a certified ancestral healing practitioner, to explore how inherited emotional patterns can create subconscious blocks in our lives. Anu explains how everything from our relationships to our finances can be impacted by these generational traumas, including how they can uniquely affect neurodivergent mi…

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The Art of Being Kind to Yourself w/ Diana Stelin 47:28

2M ago47:28

47:28

Mike and Chaya sit down with Diana Stelin, an award-winning artist, educator, TEDx speaker, and founder of The Plein-Air Art Academy. Diana shares her journey and expertise on the connection between art and emotional healing, explaining how anyone can use creativity to manage burnout, connect with their intuition, and foster better confidence. We A…

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Accommodation vs. Integration: Why Your Neuro-inclusive Program Isn't Working w/ Gabriela Tardea 1:03:23

3M ago1:03:23

1:03:23

Mike and Chaya sit down with neuro-inclusion consultant Gabriela Tardea to get practical about building workplaces where neurodivergent talent can thrive. From auditing culture and rewriting job descriptions to unlearning bias on teams, Gabriela breaks down how to bridge the gap between good intentions and real, embedded change. We Also Cover: Brid…

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Self-Preservation Isn’t Selfish: ADHD and SUD w/ Lisa Modur 46:06

3M ago46:06

46:06

Mike and Chaya sit down with Austin psychotherapist Lisa Modur to talk about misunderstood childhood ADHD, self‑stigma, perfectionism, and how “mom‑wine culture” became a coping tool before treatment and long‑term recovery reshaped her life, relationships, and parenting. We Also Cover: ADHD and specialized schooling Feeling “less than,” comparison,…

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Boarding School Interview Prep with Sarah: Tips for Parents & Students 40:19

3M ago40:19

40:19

Getting ready for a boarding school interview can feel overwhelming — for both parents and students. In this episode of the Be Evolved Podcast, Mary sits down with Sarah, Evolved Education's Boarding School Specialist, to walk families through the essential steps of interview preparation. Together, they discuss: How parents can authentically share …

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Beyond Borders: A Cross-Cultural Look at Neurodiversity w/ Dr. Pritika Bernice Gonsalves 37:49

3M ago37:49

37:49

Mike and Chaya sit down with Dr. Pritika Bernice Gonsalves, a child psychologist and EAP specialist, to discuss the nuances of neurodiversity and mental health from a cross-cultural perspective between India and the United States. Dr. Gonsalves shares her experiences with the state of ADHD awareness in India, how patriarchal norms affect diagnosis …

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Every Brain Belongs: Teaching The Twice-Exceptional w/ Mandi Davis Skerbetz 53:20

3M ago53:20

53:20

Mike and Chaya sit down with Dr. Mandi Davis Skerbetz, co-founder of Sage School of Dallas, who has dedicated her career to reshaping how we support neurodivergent and twice-exceptional students. Dr. Skerbetz shares how she identified gaps in public, private, and charter institutions, the hard reality for parents forced to pick between academic or …

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Parenting Through the Courts: Special Needs, Divorce, and Justice w/ Dr. Margaret 'Pegi' Price 56:05

4M ago56:05

56:05

Chaya and Mike speak with Dr. Margaret “Pegi” Price, a distinguished professor, legal expert, and program director at National University, about her journey blending personal experience as a parent with her career in family law. Dr. Price shares some eye-opening insights from her book, The Special Needs Child and Divorce, and explains how small cha…

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Restless Minds, Clear Patterns w/ Priya Chanduraj 54:27

4M ago54:27

54:27

Mike and Chaya sit down with Priya Chanduraj, the founder and CEO of FinTeam One, who discusses how her ADHD became an asset in the world of finance. Priya shares her experience of being a "challenged child" in India and how discovering her passion for economics allowed her to excel, and the freedom that comes from finding what you're good at. We A…

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Setting Up New Routines with Becky Reback | Ep #74 17:46

4M ago17:46

17:46

Join Becky Reback as she shares practical strategies and expert insights on creating effective back-to-school routines that set students — and families — up for a smoother, more successful school year. Have a question or comment? I'd love to hear from you. You can reach out anytime at [email protected]. Please click the button to subscribe so you…

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Knowing Your Why: Capacity is Key w/ Jane Singleton 54:50

4M ago54:50

54:50

Mike and Chaya sit down with Jane Singleton, a learning specialist, executive coach, and founder of Launchpad for Life. With over a decade of experience in education, Jane shares how her early experiences advocating for people with disabilities ignited her passion for helping neurodivergent individuals thrive. She discusses the gaps in traditional …

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Late-Realized, Loud and Leading w/ LaToya Hinton, PhD. 50:32

4M ago50:32

50:32

Mike and Chaya sit down with Dr. LaToya Hinton, an autistic, ADHDer, and passionate advocate for neurodivergent women in leadership. With her experiences as a late-diagnosed adult, LaToya dives into the mental toll of masking, perfectionism, and how accessible environments can unlock untapped potential. She shares strategies for fostering authentic…

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Back to School with Amy Nathan — Strategies for a Smooth Transition at Every Age | Bonus 24:38

4M ago24:38

24:38

In this special bonus episode, educator and Director of Student Services, Amy Nathan joins us to share practical, age-specific strategies to help families navigate the back-to-school season with confidence. Whether you have a toddler entering preschool, an elementary student building routines, a middle schooler juggling responsibilities, or a high …

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ADHD: How Are We Thinking About It? | Bonus 31:58

5M ago31:58

31:58

Join Becky Reback, Director of Assessment & Parent Education, and Mary Miele, Specialized Education Consultant & Founder of Evolved Education Company, as they dissect the key themes of the New York Times Magazine's April 13, 2025 feature "Have We Been Thinking About A.D.H.D. All Wrong?", and a June 2025 Daily Podcast follow-up. Have We Been Thinkin…

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Your Child Isn’t Giving You a Hard Time, They’re Having a Hard Time w/ Christian Vinceneux 51:57

5M ago51:57

51:57

Mike and Chaya sit down with Christian Vinceneux, ADHD advocate, coach (Life Guide Coaching), and former occupational therapist with over 30 years of experience working with neurodivergent families. Diagnosed with ADHD later in life, Christian reflects on growing up as a neurodivergent child in France, navigating challenges without the tools or wor…

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Boundaries, Burnout, and Belonging /w Michelle Markman 50:11

5M ago50:11

50:11

Mike and Chaya sit down with Michelle Markman, a late-diagnosed autistic entrepreneur and founder of ND Coach Inc., where she supports high-achieving neurodivergent women in unmasking and thriving on their own terms. Michelle reflects on how her diagnosis transformed her perspective on masking, burnout, and social challenges, and she shares practic…

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Exploding Trucks, Rock and Roll, and Autism at 65 w/ Peter O'Neil 1:01:57

5M ago1:01:57

1:01:57

Mike and Chaya sit down with Peter O’Neil, a retired attorney, musician, grandfather, and author of My So-Called Disorder: Autism, Exploding Trucks, and the Big Daddy of Rock and Roll. Diagnosed as autistic at 65, Peter reflects on how that discovery transformed his experiences of masking, social struggles, and professional success. From solitude a…

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Motivation and the Functions of Behavior: A Conversation with Mandy Grass and Becky Reback | Ep #73 44:58

5M ago44:58

44:58

In this episode of Be Evolved, Mary sits down with Evolved Education's Becky Reback and family behavior specialist Mandy Grass for a powerful conversation about motivation and the functions of behavior. Whether you're a parent, educator, or caregiver, you'll gain actionable insights into how to understand, respond to, and support the children in yo…

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Breaking Free To Be Me w/ Kristin Walker (Mental Health News Radio Network) 58:18

5M ago58:18

58:18

Mike and Chaya sit down with Kristin Walker, the founder of the Mental Health News Radio Network, to discuss her late-in-life discovery of being autistic and having ADHD. Kristin opens up about the emotional toll of masking, the powerful shift that came with her diagnosis, and how those experiences inspired her to amplify diverse voices in mental h…

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Fighting To Be Seen: The High Cost of Masking w/ Reid Miles 50:58

5M ago50:58

50:58

Mike and Chaya sit down with Reid Miles, creator and host of Inside the Asperger’s Studio. Reid opens up about his journey from working in the tech industry to becoming a passionate advocate for autism and neurodiversity. He shares the ups and downs of navigating the professional world as a neurodivergent individual and explains how he found his vo…

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Creativity That Calms: A New Way to Support Autistic Kids /w Jay Goth 40:35

6M ago40:35

40:35

Mike and Chaya sit down with Jay Goth, CEO of Burble Creativity Inc., to explore how his company is using immersive storytelling to spark imagination, reduce overstimulation, and create calming environments for neurodivergent children. Drawing from ancient storytelling traditions, Jay explains how Burble’s innovative storytelling tents combine soun…

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Cut From Chaos: Shane Currin’s Story of Bipolar, Addiction, & Purpose 57:17

6M ago57:17

57:17

Mike and Chaya kick off Season 2 by welcoming Shane Currin, a mental health advocate, writer, and podcast host of Diamonds in the Rough. Shane shares his powerful story of overcoming addiction, navigating bipolar disorder, and finding purpose through vulnerability and service. Together, they unpack the challenges and gifts of being neurodivergent, …

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Connecting Through Conversation with Erika Bare and Tiffany Burns | Ep #72 47:17

6M ago47:17

47:17

Parents and Educators, be inspired and equipped with immediately applicable moves to build connected relationships for learning, avoid power struggles, and apply communication as a universal support for students, colleagues and caregivers. Erika Bare has been an educator for over 20 years, currently serving as the Superintendent in the South Umpqua…

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Wisdom from the Work | Bonus 30:58

7M ago30:58

30:58

Join Mary Miele as she reflects on 18 years of parenting work and the wisdom she's gained from it. This heartfelt sharing of lessons learned is for every parent at any stage of their journey. If you'd like to dive deeper into specific strategies, please join me on SuperCast. As a subscriber, for just $5 a month, you'll get access to my private week…

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Holistic Mentorship at Evolved Education Company with Randi Dumont | Ep #71 27:16

7M ago27:16

27:16

Discover how Randi Dumont's holistic mentorship weaves executive-function coaching, mental health, and career planning into one powerful container — and how parents can sign their college students up for lasting academic and personal success. Resources: Book: 10 to 25: The Science of Motivating Young People by David Yeager Contact Randi at Randi@Ev…

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Pre-Flight, First-Year, Future-Proof | Ep #70 50:39

7M ago50:39

50:39

Learn concrete, step-by-step strategies from GapWell founders Lee Sosin, Seth Kessler, and student Miles Kessler. They talk about preparing students before departure, supporting them through freshman year, and future-proofing their skills for an AI-shifting job market and turbulent world. Gapwell Website: https://www.gapwellguide.com/ If you'd like…

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Honoring Dr. Cheryl Green 11:47

7M ago11:47

11:47

The podcast episode honors Dr. Cheryl Green, who passed away on April 23, 2025, after serving as President of Governor State University for four years. Dr. Green, a passionate educator with over 30 years of experience, received numerous accolades, including the Outstanding Commitment in Education Award in 2023 and the Women in Excellence in Educati…

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Reimagining Learning in the Digital Age with Laurie Hendrickson 40:24

8M ago40:24

40:24

In this episode, we talk to Laurie Hendrickson, a former middle school teacher and current educator. Hendrickson discusses the importance of student participation and technology integration in education. She emphasizes the need for technology to be used within the curriculum with a specific purpose, such as creating digital stories that enhance lea…

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Test Prep Genius: Insider Tips from Neill Seltzer of Score Smart | Ep #69 55:28

8M ago55:28

55:28

In this episode, Mary sits down with Neill Seltzer from Score Smart—the "test prep genius" who truly studies this stuff—to explore everything parents, students, and educators need to know about test preparation today. They discuss the evolving landscape of standardized testing, practical strategies, and how data-driven insights are revolutionizing …

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Transforming Learning through Experiential Education with Marshaunda Dixon 38:07

8M ago38:07

38:07

In this episode, we talk to Ms. Marshaunda Dixon, director of learning initiatives for Renaissance Christian Academy. We discuss the teacher shortage and lack of diversity in education, particularly among African American teachers. We highlight that while students of color are expected to make up 56% of the student population by 2024, only 82% of p…

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Empowering Educators Through Community Partnerships 33:46

9M ago33:46

33:46

In this episode, we talk to Gynger Garcia, a former Chicago Public School teacher, who works as a community education liaison at Breakthrough Urban Ministries. She discusses the importance of community-minded education and the benefits of partnerships between universities and community organizations. Breakthrough's programs, including after-school …

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Embracing Neurodiversity with Nichelle Cook 36:16

9M ago36:16

36:16

Nichelle Cook, educator, licensed attorney, social entrepreneur and neurodiversity disability advocate, discusses the importance of embracing neurodiversity and the challenges faced by individuals with developmental disabilities. She highlights that 12% of employees and 11% of students have developmental disabilities, emphasizing the need for bette…

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Left Behind: A Conversation with Director Anna Toomey on Dyslexia, Education, and Advocacy – Plus My Personal Reflections | Ep #68 1:00:41

9M ago1:00:41

1:00:41

In this episode of Be Evolved, I sit down with Anna Toomey, director of the documentary Left Behind, to discuss the realities of dyslexia, the systemic challenges in education, and the urgent need for advocacy. We explore the stories behind the film, the impact on students and families, and what needs to change to support all learners. Stay tuned u…

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Developing Student-Centered School Leadership with Dr. Angela Diggs 49:04

9M ago49:04

49:04

In this episode, Dr. Amy Vujaklija and Dr. Joi Patterson discuss leadership in education, emphasizing the importance of student success and diversity, equity, and inclusion. We interview Dr. Angela Diggs, a seasoned educational leader, about her journey from a peer professional to a Director of Special Services. Dr. Diggs highlights the challenges …

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Blending Passion, Research, and Teaching: A Podcast Journey with Dr. Amy and Dr. Joi 37:54

9M ago37:54

37:54

Dr. Debbie James interviews Dr. Amy Vujaklija and Dr. Joi Patterson, co-hosts of the "Teaching and Leading" podcast at Governors State University. We discuss our journey from hallway conversations to a podcast during the pandemic. We highlight the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion in education and the value of our podcast in elevating …

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Advocating for Equitable Urban Education with Dr. Sandy Womack 55:01

9M ago55:01

55:01

Dr. Sandy Womack, an Ohio educator and administrator, discusses his passion for transforming urban schools and the importance of assessing performance beyond persistence rates. He emphasizes the need for data-driven approaches, community engagement, and creating a supportive environment for teachers. Womack highlights successful programs like the R…

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Amplifying Black Voices: A Conversation with Dr. Cheryl Green 9:07

10M ago9:07

9:07

Dr. Cheryl Green, President of Governor State University, discusses her leadership journey. Despite challenges like the pandemic and the murder of George Floyd, she emphasizes the importance of higher education and the need for African American females to remain connected to academia. Green shares four pieces of career advice, including the value o…

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Unlocking the Power of PhD Mentorship for High School Success with Jin Yun Chow | Ep #67 44:51

10M ago44:51

44:51

Join Mary Miele as she sits down with Jin Yun Chow, founder of Polygence, for an insightful conversation about the transformative impact of PhD mentorship for high school students. Discover how this personalized, high-level guidance strengthens college applications and fosters deep learning, critical thinking, and personal growth. This episode is a…

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Amplifying Black Voices: A Conversation with Mayor Joe Woods 16:12

10M ago16:12

16:12

Mayor Joe Woods discusses his dual passions for poetry and public service, highlighting his role as the 12th mayor and second African American mayor of Park Forest. He emphasizes the transformative power of storytelling and the importance of lifelong learning. Woods also addresses the challenges of diversity and equity, offering a poem that critiqu…

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Amplifying Black Voices: A Conversation with Dr. Phyllis West 11:50

10M ago11:50

11:50

Dr. Phyllis West, Director of Social Justice Initiative at Governor State University, discusses the evolution of respectability politics and the stigmatization associated with African American hair. She recounts her journey from being a high school cosmetology major to an academic, highlighting the societal pressures and personal challenges she fac…

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Amplifying Black Voices: A Conversation with Dr. Rashidah Muhammad 12:19

10M ago12:19

12:19

Dr. Rashidah Muhammad, a professor at Governor State University, discusses her inspirational journey in academia, highlighting her admiration for influential Black figures like Maya Angelou and Toni Morrison. Dr. Muhammad credits Dr. Geneva Smitherman, her "literary mother," for providing a pivotal motivational push during her studies. Dr. Muhammad…

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Nature, Nurture, and Neurodiversity w/ Dr. Jeff Karp (Season 1 Finale) 51:40

10M ago51:40

51:40

Mike and Chaya conclude Spark Launch's first season by sitting down with Dr. Jeff Karp, a biomedical engineer, Harvard Medical School and MIT professor, and passionate neurodiversity advocate. Dr. Karp shares how he went from struggling student to noted innovator with over 175 published papers and 100 patents, calling attention to the ways traditio…

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Amplifying Black Voices: A Conversation with Dr. Nicole Bing 9:26

11M ago9:26

9:26

Dr. Nicole Bing, an associate professor and speech-language pathologist at Governor State University, is featured on a special Black History Project episode. She shares her journey, highlighting the impact of mentors like Dr. Noma Anderson and Dr. Yvette Hyter. Bing's story underscores the importance of mentorship in the academic and professional l…

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Walk The Strong Path: Compassion Breeds Resilience w/ James Dewar-Haggart 56:53

11M ago56:53

56:53

Mike and Chaya sit down with James Dewar-Haggart, founder of Strong Path, a fitness organization built to prioritize inclusivity for the neurodivergent community. James shares his journey through depression, substance use, and ADHD, and how those experiences shaped his approach to creating a supportive space that acknowledges both emotional and phy…

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Inspiring the Next Generation of University Leaders with Dr. Cheryl Green 36:21

11M ago36:21

36:21

Dr. Cheryl Green, the sixth president of Governor State University, discusses her journey and vision for the institution. She emphasizes the importance of diversity in leadership, noting that only 30% of university presidents are female and 5% are women of color. Green highlights her focus on engagement, transparency, and community relations, and h…

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Living Eponymously: Creativity Over Conformity w/ Bradley Lewis Foster 46:22

11M ago46:22

46:22

Mike and Chaya sit down with Bradley Lewis Foster, a creative force in the marketing world who discusses his experiences as a neurodivergent entrepreneur and the often-misunderstood traits associated with ADHD. Brad shares on leveraging neurodiverse thinking through different artforms, leading to greater understanding of both himself and the larger…