In this episode, host Anya Smith explores the cutting edge of inclusive work environments with special guest Meghan Bonde. They discuss the concept of neurodiversity and its importance in today's workplace. Meghan shares practical steps that organizations can take to account for neurodiversity, including the use of universal design and the Grow Interview Protocol.

They also discuss the creation of systems for reasonable and meaningful accommodations and overcoming fear in inclusive conversations. Meghan emphasizes the growing presence of neurodivergence in society and the importance of self-identification and embracing neurodivergent identities. She shares her journey from education to entrepreneurship and offers resources and services for creating inclusive workplaces.

The episode concludes with a discussion on common misconceptions about neurodivergent individuals, leaders who embody inclusivity, and the positive side of going off track.

Takeaways

• Neurodiversity is essential for creating thriving and flourishing work environments.
• Organizations can start by implementing practical steps such as universal design and the Grow Interview Protocol to account for neurodiversity.
• Creating systems for reasonable and meaningful accommodations is crucial for supporting neurodivergent individuals.
• Overcoming fear and building trust in inclusive conversations is important for fostering an inclusive workplace culture.
• Self-identification and embracing neurodivergent identities can lead to empowerment and self-advocacy.
• Inclusive learning and development systems can transform organizations and support the growth and success of all employees.
• Creating neurodiversity affinity groups and empowering children are important steps towards inclusivity.
• Embracing individual strengths and advocating for needs is key to creating an inclusive work environment.
• There are resources and services available to support organizations in creating inclusive workplaces.
• Common misconceptions about neurodivergent individuals can hinder inclusivity in the workplace.
• Leaders who embody inclusivity in the workplace can inspire and drive positive change.

Chapters:

00:00 Preview

01:14 Introduction to Neurodiversity and its Importance in the Workplace

04:14 Practical Steps for Organizations to Account for Neurodiversity

07:19 Applying Universal Design and the Grow Interview Protocol

10:50 Creating Systems for Reasonable and Meaningful Accommodations

13:00 Overcoming Fear and Building Trust in Inclusive Conversations

16:46 The Growing Presence of Neurodivergence in Society

19:36 Self-Identification and Embracing Neurodivergent Identities

22:52 The Journey from Education to Entrepreneurship

24:31 Creating a Structure for Success as an Entrepreneur

27:29 Transforming Organizations through Inclusive Learning and Development

30:58 The Power of Belief Change and Normalizing Neurodiversity

33:49 Creating Neurodiversity Affinity Groups and Empowering Children

36:17 Embracing Individual Strengths and Advocating for Needs

39:50 Resources and Services for Inclusive Workplaces

40:58 Common Misconceptions about Neurodivergent Individuals

42:09 Leaders Who Embody Inclusivity in the Workplace

43:19 Wrap Up

💡 Don't forget to follow us on social media for more empowering stories and tips! 💡

Stay Connected:

🍏 APPLE PODCAST | https://apple.co/3YxGCNJ

🌐 WEBSITE | https://www.podcast.rightofftrack.com

🎥 YOUTUBE | https://www.youtube.com/@RightOffTrack

📸 INSTAGRAM | https://instagram.com/rightofftrack

🔗 LINKEDIN | https://www.linkedin.com/in/anyansmith

👍 FACEBOOK | https://www.facebook.com/rightofftrack

🎶 TIKTOK | https://www.tiktok.com/@rightofftrack

🤝 Connect with Meghan:

🔗 LINKEDIN | https://www.linkedin.com/company/tngifted/

🌐 WEBSITE | https://www.teamneurodivergent.com