Ever wondered what separates those with great creative ideas from those who turn them into reality? In this episode of Classroom 5.0, I sit down with Joel Connolly, Creative Director at Blackbird Venture Capital, to explore how creativity shows up in everyday life—and how to move from inspiration to execution. Joel shares insights on the role of personal taste, the discipline required to bring ideas to life, and the biological benefits of neurodiversity in accessing flow states. If you think creativity is reserved for a select few, this conversation might just change your mind.

Key Highlights:

• 03:10: The role of personal taste in creativity
• 12:30: Creativity as a birthright
• 15:00: The distinction between craft and creativity
• 22:05: Navigating creative challenges
• 30:35: Founders and artists as creators with shared archetypes

For links to resources discussed on today's episode, see the podcast show notes here

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Series 5 of Classroom 5.0, NeuroPEAK, is unpacking the stories of the unique strengths and struggles of navigating Neurodiversity in leadership.

My guest today is Mike Knapp, an ex-Google innovator and founder of Shoes of Prey who takes us through his journey of discovering his neurodivergent identity after facing burnout. After years of pushing through periods of ill-health in high-demand environments, Mike discovered that the source of his exhaustion wasn’t the work—but how the work was structured for his neurodivergent brain.

This realisation was a turning point, and in our conversation, Mike reveals how understanding his ADHD and Autism unlocked a deeper potential. It's allowed him to not only reshape his career but also rethink how creativity and innovation can truly flourish when supported by environments that understand neurodiversity.

What if we all embraced our unique wiring instead of trying to fit into rigid moulds? How would your life change if you had a work structure that truly supported how your brain works?

As Mike shares, it’s time we started seeing neurodivergence as a strength, not a challenge to overcome. The world needs more workplaces that foster the kind of creativity only neurodivergent minds can deliver.

Are you ready to unlock your own leading-edge potential? If you’re curious about how neurodiversity can fuel innovation in fast-paced industries, this episode is a must-listen!

You'll learn how to:

• Embrace your uniqueness
• Build flexible work and life environments
• Harness the power of neurodivergence for innovation

What’s one way you could shape your environment today to work better for your brain? Loved this episode? Please share it with a friend, and leave a review to help it reach others!

For resources, click here for the podcast episode page

In this episode of Classroom 5.0, Mariane sits down with Martin Sully, founder of Snapper Studios, to explore how branding can foster inclusivity and connection. We discuss the role of neurodiversity in the marketing industry, with insights into how individuals with ADHD thrive in fast-paced creative environments. Martin also shares practical tips on aligning values with brand strategy and the importance of attention to detail. Join us as we unpack how thoughtful, inclusive design can create meaningful impact for both businesses and their audiences.

For links to resoruces mentioned in today's show, head to the episode webpage: www.marianepower.com.au/blog/43