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I Must Be BUG'N

Neurodivergent Plus Disabled, And I Thrive

Season 3, Ep. 13
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Episode Transcript (provided by Riverside - forgive any errors): https://link.sheldongayisbugn.com/s3e13transcript


Follow I Must Be BUGN on IG @sheldongayisbugn


Summary


In this episode, I get the chance to chat with Mark Travis Rivera, an award-winning creative entrepreneur and storyteller. We discuss Mark's journey of embracing his neurodivergence, the importance of storytelling, and how dance has shaped his identity, especially as someone with a physical disability. Mark shares his story as a Brown, neurodivergent, disabled, queer man, including the impact of losing his brother and how it propelled him to pursue his passions. He also discusses how his "macho" older cousin changed his life by investing in his first dance gear, even though it wasn't his thing. He shares his belief in the power of connection through personal narratives, the challenges he faced growing up, and how he broke generational curses by becoming the first in his family to graduate college. During our discussion, Mark told me about how Oprah inspired him to honor one's calling in life. This episode is about highlighting the importance of creating inspiring spaces that reflect one's journey and the stories of those who have influenced them. He firmly makes the case for the power of stories to create empathy and understanding, as well as the beauty of being different.


Key Points
  • Storytelling is a powerful tool for inclusion, understanding and connection.
  • Mark's work is centered around creating a more inclusive world through storytelling.
  • You can align your entrepreneurial journey with your neurodivergent needs.
  • The power of stories lies in their ability to create empathy and connection. Dance is a powerful form of expression and healing.
  • There's ancestral wisdom in using movement to process grief and emotions.
  • Embracing one's identity is crucial for personal growth.
  • Disability should be embraced, not shamed.
  • Honoring your calling is essential for personal fulfillment.
  • Routine can significantly impact mood and focus, especially for neurodivergent individuals.
  • Leaning into one's differences can reveal unique strengths and perspectives.


Stay in Contact with Mark:
  • @marktravrivera on Instagram
  • Learn more about his speaking, coaching, and other work: https://marktravisrivera.com
  • Connect on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/mark-travis-rivera


Helpful Links:
  • Hire me to speak or as your personal gifted or neurodivergent discovery coach!: https://sheldongayisbugn.com
  • Free list of Therapists for Melanated and Marginalized Groups: https://link.sheldongayisbugn.com/therapistsformypeople
  • Free GroupMe Community for Talented and Gifted adults: https://groupme.com/join_group/108040800/igLaxqNG
  • ND Connect - Online community for neurodivergent people: ndconnect.app
  • Umbrella ND - Non-profit focused on neurodivergent advocacy: https://umbrellaopensdoors.org/resources
  • "Never Can Say Goodbye" book by Darnell Lamont Walker :https://rep.club/products/never-can-say-goodbye?srsltid=AfmBOorDmuTkA-ekY17rQ0xp-NGkNhjSNG3MmMVjCACreVjGTmh0rBkj


Keywords

neurodivergence, storytelling, inclusion, dance, identity, creativity, entrepreneurship, personal growth, mental health, healing, disability, identity, expression, grief, intersectionality, connection, resilience, generational curses, self-love, empathy, personal growth, cerebral palsy, books, book snob


Intro and Outro music provided by byrdversion1 - "Understand" from the album Nevermore

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    Episode Transcript (provided by Riverside - forgive any errors): https://docs.google.com/document/d/1Whi98bPoD7JApOXYX5IkbaMbD9XzSRSBd7UdwhKwKfs/edit?usp=sharingFollow I Must Be BUGN on IG @sheldongayisbugnSummary:In this episode, I reflect on some of my favorite episodes that are good to review during this time of rest and restoration. Listen to hear how you can help 2026 be a transformative year for me.Suggested copy for introducing me to your network:Hi [Insert Name] — I wanted to put Sheldon Gay on your radar. He’s doing thoughtful and timely work around giftedness, neurodivergence, leadership, and burnout, especially for Black and other traditionally marginalized groups. I immediately thought of your team when I learned he’s available for speaking. Given the challenges many teams are facing right now with regard to inclusion efforts as well as recruiting and retaining top talent, I thought his perspective could be especially helpful. If it’s useful, I’d encourage you to reach out and connect with him directly. Here's his website: sheldongayisbugn.com.Helpful Links:Season 1 Episode 2 "Why Are We BUG'N?": https://open.spotify.com/episode/4suruvJEx1sdqw1kdOEKUz?si=zL8mWVCpScWUjPcLW5n8EgSeason 3 Episode 2 "Why Anger is Necessary for Joy": https://open.spotify.com/episode/1OCMXHZWRC2iOsau77e3Jv?si=i01SJ3yQTmWUP_goL_kZXQSeason 3 Episode 1 "Is it a Neurodivergent Excuse or Reason?": https://open.spotify.com/episode/0lOLLlDt2JzivxUie0o3gn?si=t0BXb7XpQri7_3t3TjnrKQSeason 2 Episode 11 "It Must Be My MEgo": https://open.spotify.com/episode/1CoIkccfPzeLfxaLkZ6L1S?si=mPDBBV5jTW6d26uaAleXhgSeason 3 Episode 3 "Mom...I'm Autistic": https://open.spotify.com/episode/7C8HTURxc6bL0eiVOY2DTJ?si=FFc7FGPCRRiLbarRpfbaVgSeason 2 Episode 7 "It Must Be Good Grief": https://open.spotify.com/episode/6HAw4IM2SWSPlEgnQTzUYJ?si=61d3b4ef53084e4eCosmic Cheer Squad Guest Interview "Compassionate Mirrors": https://open.spotify.com/episode/5WV81qYuymV9wVTyZ5UT8g?si=QgPSG3ZkTv-D0BHs29jD8QHire me to speak or as your personal coach! sheldongayisbugn.comFree GroupMe Community for Talented and Gifted adults: https://groupme.com/join_group/108040800/igLaxqNGND Connect - Online community for neurodivergent people: ndconnect.appUmbrella ND - Non-profit focused on neurodivergent advocacy: https://umbrellaopensdoors.org/Submit your Questions or Misunderstood Insights: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSelanG1R71TcGjzHIyVW1f8fkE7MaWx-D2j7OtHsIGrdQhi_Q/viewform?usp=sf_linkKeywords: podcast, reflection, support, neurodivergent, community, personal growth, Black men, mental health, grief, joyIntro and Outro music provided by byrdversion1 - "Understand" from the album Nevermore

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    Episode Transcript (provided by Riverside - forgive any errors): https://docs.google.com/document/d/1rNjh4fS_StpHON-a-EEk_n_dH4hGK46s0EPe5o5U2Qc/edit?usp=sharingFollow I Must Be BUGN on IG @sheldongayisbugnSummary:In this episode, I speak with Dr. Jeff, an expert helping people with ADHD transform their lives, especially in the workplace. We discussed Dr. Jeff's personal journey with ADHD, the challenges he faced, and how he developed a system to help others harness their ADHD. He tells us about being saved from wandering into the street, teaching himself to code, how Adderall was helpful until he had a heart attack and couldn't take it anymore and much more. Dr. Jeff helps us see how humor can bring peace with our journey. Key Points:ADHD doesn't have to be viewed as a deficitHow accountability can help change habits and achieve goals.Self-compassion is key; failure is not a reflection of one's worth.Mindset shifts can transform one's approach to challenges.Community support enhances personal growth and accountability. Understanding ADHD can lead to better career choices.Living with uncertainty can heighten adrenaline and dopamine levels.Being able to laugh at life can help us find a way throughCreating supportive environments can enhance productivity.Helpful Links:Email Dr. Jeff: Drjeff@Drgetinfocus.comSchedule a call with Dr. Jeff: https://drgetinfocus.com/schedule-page (for clarity Kick-start session)Video about study demonstrating racial disparity in hiring: https://www.instagram.com/reel/DG1grIqvz_N/Hire me to speak or as your personal coach! sheldongayisbugn.comFree GroupMe Community for Talented and Gifted adults: https://groupme.com/join_group/108040800/igLaxqNGND Connect - Online community for neurodivergent people: ndconnect.appUmbrella ND - Non-profit focused on neurodivergent advocacy: https://umbrellaopensdoors.org/Submit your Questions or Misunderstood Insights: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSelanG1R71TcGjzHIyVW1f8fkE7MaWx-D2j7OtHsIGrdQhi_Q/viewform?usp=sf_linkKeywords: ADHD, neurodivergence, superpower, productivity, accountability, mindset, personal growth, mental health, self-awareness, SchlemielIntro and Outro music provided by byrdversion1 - "Understand" from the album Nevermore