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I Must Be BUG'N
It Must Be a Conversation with Shea Belsky
Episode Transcript (provided by Riverside - forgive any errors)
In this episode I spoke with Shea Belsky who is the Chief Technology Officer for Mentra, a hiring platform for neurodivergent job seekers. We talked about the impact of more people receiving a diagnosis or even self-identifying as neurodivergent. Shea shares his experience as someone who was diagnosed with autism early in life and how it colors his career and even his recent marriage. He tells us about the work they're doing at Mentra to empower neurodivergent job-seekers to advocate for themselves in ways they may not have felt comfortable or been aware of. They also work to challenge companies on how they're creating neuro-inclusive environments that not only will hire but retain people of diverse neurotypes. We have an encouraging conversation around the future of hiring. Check out the latest episode and let us know what you learned!
Connect with Shea Belsky:
- https://www.linkedin.com/in/sheabelsky
- https://www.instagram.com/sheabelsky
- hello@sheabelsky.com
Helpful Links:
- Mentra - A Neurodiversity Employment Network
- Community for Black/BIPOC Gifted Adults - Our Wild Minds
- Bloomers Gifted and 2E Facebook Group
- Umbrella US - Non-profit focused on neurodivergent advocacy
- Neurodivergent Sanctuary Facebook Group
- Submit your Questions or Misunderstood Insights
Intro and Outro music provided by byrdversion1 - "It Couldn't Be" from the album Nevermore
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5. What is The Largest 4 Digit Number? - GUEST EPISODE - Square Pegs Podcast
56:40||Season 2, Ep. 5Episode Transcript (provided by Riverside - forgive any errors)Follow I Must Be BUGN on IGFollow Square Pegs Podcast on IGDon't forget to subscribe, SHARE and leave a reviewJoin me for my first guest/collaboriation episode where I was interviewed by Arash Zaghi of the "Square Pegs" podcast. This is one of my favorite episdoes because Arash's vision is very much aligned with mine.I share my journey as a neurodivergent person, reflecting on childhood experiences, educational challenges, and the importance of advocacy. I discuss how my unique learning needs were often misunderstood, highlighting the critical role of supportive environments and the value of diverse thinking in STEM fields. We also discuss the intersectionality of being Black, gifted, and neurodivergent, addressing systemic biases and the importance of community and self-acceptance. Our discussion emphasizes the need for educational reform to better accommodate non-traditional learners and calls for a holistic approach to learning that recognizes and nurtures diverse cognitive abilities. Square Pegs Podcast is a series of intimate conversations about navigating life and learning within the neurodiverse community, hosted by Dr. Arash Zaghi, Professor at the University of Connecticut School of Engineering. In each episode, we talk to neurodiverse students and experts in the field of neurodiversity. Episode Highlights:00:42 Meet Sheldon Gay: host of "I Must Be BUG'N" podcast 02:18 Sheldon's early school experiences 05:37 Discovering a passion for math and science 07:53 Divergent thinking and early academic challenges 11:10 The impact of real-world applications in education 15:42 Challenges in traditional education systems 27:41 The evolution of cognitive skills 28:24 Embracing uniquely brilliant minds 29:43 Changing systems to fit diverse minds 30:27 Choosing an MBA over engineering 32:18 Innovative projects and missed opportunities 33:39 Starting the "I Must Be BUG’N" podcast 34:42 Challenges of being neurodivergent in marginalized communities 38:08 The importance of diagnosis and acceptance 47:07 Creating a supportive community 53:15 Advice to younger self Helpful Links:Wait, Could I Be Gifted? The "Quiz"Community for Black/BIPOC Gifted Adults - Our Wild MindsUmbrella US - Non-profit focused on neurodivergent advocacySubmit your Questions or Misunderstood Insights5. It Must Be a Conversation with LaToya Hinton, PhD - Part 2
53:43||Season 2, Ep. 5Episode Transcript (provided by Riverside - forgive any errors)Follow I Must Be BUGN on IGDon't forget to subscribe, SHARE and leave a reviewWe're back with the conclusion of our latest episode where I talk with the amazing LaToya Hinton, PhD. She is a late-identified AuDHDer who's gifted. LaToya is a mixed methods researcher, data nerd, python programmer and advocate for neurodivergent women leaders. She had so much to share about her experience of seld-discovery, how her relationship with her parents may have impacted her neurodivergent journey and the need for understanding, acceptance, and support for neurodivergent individuals in leadership roles.Key Takeaways:Why self-discovery and self-acceptance are critical, especially for marginalized communitiesSocietal expectations can limit the authentic expression of people's humanityHow inclusive and accessible work environments are crucial for neurodivergent individualsThe intersectionality of neurodivergence and race should be considered in discussions of diversity and inclusionInformation Mentioned in this Episode:LaToya on LinkedInNeurodivergent Women Leaders: Creative Mentorship and SupportTecessibility WebsiteHelpful Links:Wait, Could I Be Gifted? The "Quiz"Community for Black/BIPOC Gifted Adults - Our Wild MindsBloomers Gifted and 2E Facebook GroupUmbrella US - Non-profit focused on neurodivergent advocacyNeurodivergent Sanctuary Facebook GroupSubmit your Questions or Misunderstood InsightsIntro and Outro music provided by byrdversion1 - "It Couldn't Be" from the alb4. It Must Be a Conversation with LaToya Hinton, PhD - Part 1
48:57||Season 2, Ep. 4Episode Transcript (provided by Riverside - forgive any errors)Follow I Must Be BUGN on IGDon't forget to subscribe, SHARE and leave a reviewWe're back with a new episode where I talk with the amazing LaToya Hinton, PhD. She is a late-identified AuDHDer who's gifted. LaToya is a mixed methods researcher, data nerd, python programmer and advocate for neurodivergent women leaders. She had so much to share about her experience of seld-discovery, how her relationship with her parents may have impacted her neurodivergent journey and the need for understanding, acceptance, and support for neurodivergent individuals in leadership roles.Key Takeaways:Late diagnosis of neurodivergence can be challenging but also life-changing in a positive way.Being curious about lived-experience can completely change relationshipsCreating safe spaces and providing resources and support is crucial for neurodivergent individuals, particularly in the workplace.Information Mentioned in this Episode:LaToya on LinkedInNeurodivergent Women Leaders: Creative Mentorship and SupportTecessibility WebsiteHelpful Links:Wait, Could I Be Gifted? The "Quiz"Community for Black/BIPOC Gifted Adults - Our Wild MindsBloomers Gifted and 2E Facebook GroupUmbrella US - Non-profit focused on neurodivergent advocacyNeurodivergent Sanctuary Facebook GroupSubmit your Questions or Misunderstood InsightsIntro and Outro music provided by byrdversion1 - "It Couldn't Be" from the alb3. It Must Be Them, Not Me - Part 1
01:12:24||Season 2, Ep. 3Episode Transcript (provided by Riverside - forgive any errors)Follow I Must Be BUGN on IGDon't forget to suscribe, SHARE and leave a review NOWOk, the self-awareness episode is HERE....finally. This is something I've been chewing on for MONTHS but I finally found time and space to start breaking down my thoughts. This first episode covers a lot of ground but is really just about the basics. I attempt to share my thoughts on:Why should want to look in the mirrorWhat self-reflection isHow we know we need to look in the mirrorWhy it even matters andWhat the drawbacks areI share a few visual examples so you can either watch this on YouTube or use the links below. This is a really important discussion that we'll be having throughout this Season. I hope you enjoy. Let me know in the comments and please SHARE!Links Reference in the episode:Self-Awareness PresentationDifferent Perspectives VideoA Guide to Shadow WorkCold Doesn't ExistJerry Colonna Speaking about Radical Self-InquiryMooji - Observing Ego vs Ultimate ObservingHelpful Links:Community for Black/BIPOC Gifted Adults - Our Wild MindsBloomers Gifted and 2E Facebook GroupUmbrella US - Non-profit focused on neurodivergent advocacyNeurodivergent Sanctuary Facebook GroupSubmit your Questions or Misunderstood InsightsIntro and Outro music provided by byrdversion1 - "It Couldn't Be" from the album Nevermore1. It Must Be a Conversation with Angela Davis - The Kitchenista
01:36:39||Season 2, Ep. 1Episode Transcript (provided by Riverside - forgive any errors)Follow I Must Be BUGN on IGDon't forget to suscribe, SHARE and leave a review NOWWelcome to Season 2! In this episode we start out STRONG. I had the honor of having a discussion with Angela Davis aka the Kitchenista. She allowed me to create a safe space to discuss her journey of neurodivergent discovery. She shares her thoughts on going from being misdiagnosed when she was younger (all too common for Black women) while feeling it wasn't a perfect fit and ultimately finding clarity through ADHD and autism identification. Angela has built a very successful brand online showcasing her amazing recipes and cooking skills. She's a self-taught culinary virtuoso on a mission to empower home cooks. Listen as she reflects on her experiences growing up and how those insights inform her self-awareness and healing as an adult. We discuss how difficult it can be feeling no one else understands your experience while also having a very public an established persona. Now that she's making meaningful shifts in her life and feeling more empowered to communicate with and choose HER people, we talk a bit about what that looks like. Ultimately, this episode is an emotional exploration of the early-stages of neurodivergent discovery and acceptance. I'm just SO glad that allowed me to create a container for her to vulnerably and accessibly share her story.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Angela Davis, the Kitchenista09:51 Discovering Neurodivergence and Embracing Creativity25:56 Navigating Burnout and Mental Health46:04 Recognizing and Understanding Neurodivergence53:46 The Power of Community01:01:35 Awareness and Ableism01:09:39 Navigating Communication and Participation01:17:48 Finding Supportive FriendsConnect with Angela Davis - The Kitchenista:https://patreon.com/kitchenista @thekitchenista on InstagramHelpful Links:SuperNova Momma Discusses Culturally Relevant StimmingCommunity for Black/BIPOC Gifted Adults - Our Wild MindsBloomers Gifted and 2E Facebook GroupUmbrella US - Non-profit focused on neurodivergent advocacyNeurodivergent Sanctuary Facebook GroupSubmit your Questions or Misunderstood InsightsIntro and Outro music provided by byrdversion1 - "It Couldn't Be" from the album Nevermore13. It Must Be a Conversation with Kaitlin Smith
01:38:51||Season 1, Ep. 13Episode Transcript (provided by Riverside - forgive any errors)Follow I Must Be BUGN on IGDon't forget to suscribe, SHARE and leave a review NOWIn the final episode of my first Season, I interview Kaitlin Smith, MSW, Founder of Our Wild Minds. We talk about her work creating an amazing community for gifted BIPOC adults. Kaitlin shares her story, including the challenges of facing racism, sexism and mysogyny that created a significant misalignment with colleagues within her preparations to become a psychotherapist. She talks about how these factors influenced her decision to move away from psychotherapy and into the work she's currently pursuing that has even further implications for communities she cares about.This is an in-depth conversation that covers many areas, including how acorns can help us fight systems of oppession and bring us closer to Octavia Butler. We also talk about topics like the power of recognizing our place within the ecosystem as more than "apex predator". In this conversation, we challenge stereotypes and shift perspectives, discuss discovering a connection to nature, investigate the power of possibility and wonder, as well as the importance of building capacity for giftedness and other neurodivergent experiences.Key Topics:The impact of racism, sexism and misogyny in the field of psychotherapyAddressing internalized racism and assumptions is crucial for creating inclusive spaces for gifted individuals and the broader societyThe benefits of connecting with nature, including access to holistic and affordable food and medicineHow embracing possibility and wonder can lead to personal growth and the pursuit of ambitious goals, but it may also present challenges in a world that often values conformity.Connect with Kaitlin Smith:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ourwildminds/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/our.wildminds/Twitter: https://twitter.com/kaitlinsm1thLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kaitlinnoelsmith/Helpful Links:Community for Black/BIPOC Gifted Adults - Our Wild MindsBrilliant Article "Acorns and Octavia" by Kaitlin Smith"What the Robin Knows" book by Jon YoungBloomers Gifted and 2E Facebook GroupUmbrella US - Non-profit focused on neurodivergent advocacyNeurodivergent Sanctuary Facebook GroupSubmit your Questions or Misunderstood InsightsIntro and Outro music provided by byrdversion1 - "It Couldn't Be" from the album Nevermore12. It Must Be a Conversation with Sydney Elaine Butler
01:04:32||Season 1, Ep. 12Episode Transcript (provided by Riverside)Follow I Must Be BUGN on IGDon't forget to suscribe, SHARE and leave a review if you're enjoying the podcast.In this episode, I have a wonderful conversation with Sydney Elaine Butler, an HR professional and Founder of Accessible Creates. We discuss the importance of centering neurodivergent voices and experiences, as well as Sydney's personal journey and understanding of neurodiversity. Sydney shares insights on improving internal HR practices and workplace accessibility, particularly for women. Sydney also highlights the importance of avoiding misconceptions about neurodivergence when providing accommodations, as well as the need for individualized approaches. We talk about the importance of continuous learning and being open to making mistakes as part of the journey towards inclusivity.Key Topics:Centering neurodivergent voices and experiences is crucial for creating inclusive and accessible workplaces.Understanding and embracing one's multiple identities is essential for personal growth and authenticity.Improving internal HR practices and workplace accessibility is vital for supporting neurodivergent individuals.Women in the workplace often face unique challenges and need support and understanding.Balancing personal and professional growth is important for overall well-being and success. Advancements in technology, such as AI and software tools, can improve accessibility and accommodations in the workplace.Avoid assuming what accommodations individuals need and instead listen to their specific needs.Creating safe and inclusive spaces requires continuous learning, embracing neurodivergent differences, and being open to making mistakes.Individuals should be patient and compassionate with themselves, understanding that their experiences and needs may differ.Connect with Sydney:linktr.ee/sydneyelainebutler - this has all their social linksHelpful Links:Community for Black Gifted Adults - Our Wild MindsBloomers Gifted and 2E Facebook GroupUmbrella US - Non-profit focused on neurodivergent advocacyNeurodivergent Sanctuary Facebook GroupSubmit your Questions or Misunderstood InsightsIntro and Outro music provided by byrdversion1 - "It Couldn't Be" from the album Nevermore11. It Must Be a Conversation with Dr. Kimberly Douglass
01:11:29||Season 1, Ep. 11Episode Transcript (provided by Riverside)Follow I Must Be BUGN on IGDon't forget to suscribe, SHARE and leave a review if you're enjoying the podcast.In this episode, I speak with Dr. Kimberly Douglass, a coach and consultant to neurodivergent adults who also identifies as AuDHD. Dr. Douglass delves into the concept of decolonizing neurodivergence. We talk about how refusing homework for her son helps her push back against the systems that seek to determine our societal outcomes. She shares why genuine curiosity, grace, and connection in supporting neurodivergent individuals is critical. I also learned about how she helps neurodivergent people, especially creatives, unlock their potential and make progress where they've felt stuck. At the core of this discussion is emphasizing the importance of seeing individuals as whole persons and creating space for self-discovery and acceptance.Key Topics:Decolonizing neurodivergence is about challenging the ideas that seek to forget the individual and see us only as commoditiesCurrent diagnostic criteria and support systems are often based on research conducted on white boys, which leads to a lack of understanding and support for individuals from marginalized communities.Making sure your message reaches the people who need to hear it, and that won't include everyone.How Black and marginalized individuals often face stereotypes and surveillance, which can overshadow our needs and lead to misinterpretation of our behavior.Creating space for self-discovery and acceptance and how that's key to neurodivergent healing and thriving.Connect with Dr. Douglass:douglass@drkimberlydouglass.comdrkimberlydouglass.comHelpful Links:Community for Black Gifted Adults - Our Wild MindsBloomers Gifted and 2E Facebook GroupUmbrella US - Non-profit focused on neurodivergent advocacyNeurodivergent Sanctuary Facebook GroupSubmit your Questions or Misunderstood InsightsIntro and Outro music provided by byrdversion1 - "It Couldn't Be" from the album Nevermore