Podcasts about exploring different brains

Self-advocate and author Rebecca Tillou shares the realities of life with FASD, and her journey towards getting a diagnosis at age 33. Rebecca Tillou is a self-advocate of Fetal Alcohol Syndrome, which is under the umbrella Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders. Since being diagnosed at the age of 33, she has become a tireless advocate raising awareness of this often misunderstood condition. She is the author of the auto-biographical book “Tenacity”, and the founder of the virtual 5K for FASD United. For more about Rebecca and FASD, visit: https://adultingwithfasdcoms.com/ https://fasdunited.org/ http://www.runfasd.org/ Follow Different Brains on social media: https://twitter.com/diffbrains https://www.facebook.com/different.brains/ https://www.instagram.com/diffbrains/ Check out more episodes of Exploring Different Brains! http://differentbrains.org/category/edb/

Autism self-advocate and therapist Megan MacKay discusses her work helping those experiencing PTSD and CPTSD. Megan MacKay works as an addiction and trauma psychotherapist. She is a CSAT, LCPC and LPC in the states of Arizona and Montana. Megan is also a Clinical Mental Health Consultant at Trapper Creek Job Corps, and a Board Member for Returning Youth Initiative. She also is a host and Board member for 101.5 KFGM, Missoula Community Radio. For more about Megan's work, visit: https://www.innerstatehealingandrecovery.com/ https://bloggingforrecovery.wordpress.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/meganmackayaz/ Listen to 101.5 KFGM at https://www.1015kfgm.org/ Follow Different Brains on social media: https://twitter.com/diffbrains https://www.facebook.com/different.brains/ https://www.instagram.com/diffbrains/ Check out more episodes of Exploring Different Brains! http://differentbrains.org/category/edb/

Autism self-advocate and therapist Megan MacKay discusses her role with Job Corps, and how it can help the neurodivergent population. Megan MacKay works as an addiction and trauma psychotherapist. She is a CSAT, LCPC and LPC in the states of Arizona and Montana. Megan is also a Clinical Mental Health Consultant at Trapper Creek Job Corps, and a Board Member for Returning Youth Initiative. She also is a host and Board member for 101.5 KFGM, Missoula Community Radio. For more about Megan's work, visit: https://www.innerstatehealingandrecovery.com/ https://bloggingforrecovery.wordpress.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/meganmackayaz/ Listen to 101.5 KFGM at https://tunein.com/radio/KFGM-1015-s288054/ Follow Different Brains on social media: https://twitter.com/diffbrains https://www.facebook.com/different.brains/ https://www.instagram.com/diffbrains/ Check out more episodes of Exploring Different Brains! http://differentbrains.org/category/edb/

In the second part of our review of 2024, we hear from some of the people making a difference for the neurodiversity community including Dr. Jennie Trocchio, Cheryl Checkers, Aisha McDonald & more! AISHA MCDONALD – full interview pt 1 https://differentbrains.org/recognizing-intersectional-trauma-with-aisha-t-mcdonald-lmhc-edb-328/ / pt 2 https://differentbrains.org/suicide-prevention-mental-health-with-aisha-t-mcdonald-lmhc-edb-329/ | for more about their work: https://www.unitedwaybroward.org/ CHERYL CHECKERS AND DR CHRISTOPHER KAY – full interview: https://differentbrains.org/mental-health-on-the-autism-spectrum-with-cheryl-checkers-dr-christopher-kye-edb-325/ | for more about their work: Cheryl: https://www.cherylcheckers.com/ Dr Kye: https://www.christopherkyemd.com/ NICOLE STORRS – full interview: https://differentbrains.org/9muses-supporting-mental-health-through-art-peer-support-with-nicole-storrs-edb-323/ | for more about their work: https://9musesartcenter.org/ TAINAH GEORGES – full interview: https://differentbrains.org/fusion-academy-success-through-one-on-one-education-with-tainah-georges-edb-321/ | for more about their work: https://www.fusionacademy.com/ ANTHONY PACILLIO – full interview: https://differentbrains.org/cai-harnessing-neurodiverse-talent-with-anthony-pacilio-edb-317/ | for more about their work: https://www.cai.io/neurodiverse-solutions/overview DR JENNIE TROCCHIO – full interview: https://differentbrains.org/autism-developmental-therapy-with-dr-jennie-trocchio-edb-315/ | for more about their work: https://www.drjennie.co/ COURTNEY, LAURA, AND GRACIE FROM CANINE ASSISTED THERAPY – full interview: https://differentbrains.org/how-therapy-animals-help-with-courtney-trzcinski-laura-rogers-gracie-edb-320/ | for more about their work: https://catdogs.org/ Follow Different Brains on social media: https://twitter.com/diffbrains https://www.facebook.com/different.brains/ https://www.instagram.com/diffbrains/ Check out more episodes of Exploring Different Brains! http://differentbrains.org/category/edb/

In the first part of our review of 2024, we hear from some of the neurodivergent self-advocates that have appeared on the show, including Shawn Smith, Ali Idriss, Diane Gould & more! ALI IDRISS – full interview: https://differentbrains.org/adhd-in-the-er-with-ali-idriss-edb-316/ | for more about their work: https://differentbrains.org/author/ali-idriss/ DIANE GOULD – full interview: https://differentbrains.org/navigating-pda-demand-avoidance-autism-neurodiversity-with-diane-gould-edb-331/ | for more about their work: https://dianegouldtherapy.com/ ZACHARY TOVIN – full interview: https://differentbrains.org/neurodiversity-self-advocate-spotlight-zachary-tovins-autism-journey-edb-318/ | for more about their work: https://zachtovinphotography.wordpress.com/ SHELLY BAER AND JAIRO ARANA – full interview: https://differentbrains.org/project-s-a-l-t-creating-self-advocate-leaders-with-univ-of-miamis-shelly-baer-jairo-arana-edb-319/ | for more about their work: https://med.miami.edu/centers-and-institutes/mailman-center/education/leadership-training-opportunities/salt ANNA DIAZ – full interview: https://differentbrains.org/understanding-epilepsy-with-anna-diaz-luis-martinez-of-epilepsy-alliance-florida-edb-324/ | for more about their work: https://epilepsyalliancefl.org/ SHAWN SMITH – full interview: https://differentbrains.org/neurodivergent-burnout-with-shawn-smith-edb-332/ | for more about their work: http://www.ddmacs.ca/ Follow Different Brains on social media: https://twitter.com/diffbrains https://www.facebook.com/different.brains/ https://www.instagram.com/diffbrains/ Check out more episodes of Exploring Different Brains! http://differentbrains.org/category/edb/

Canadian ADHD & autism self-advocate and therapist Shawn Smith shares his experiences battling burnout, and offers tips on how ot overcome it. Shawn Smith M.Ed., CCC, LCT is an autistic and ADHD Counsellor and psychotherapist, and the founder of Don't dis-my-ability® Consultation Services Inc. Shawn helps parents, young people, and adults who are neurodivergent (ADHD/Autism/Dyslexic and more). Prior to his own diagnoses, Shawn struggled at every level of the public education system. It took Shawn 4 years to complete 3 years of high school, 32 attempts to earn the 18 credits required to graduate including failing grade 10 math 4 times. Since then Shawn has experienced a tremendous amount of self-growth in a relatively short period of time and has a unique understanding of his thought process. In 2010, Shawn was accepted to the Master of Education in Counseling Psychology program at the University of New Brunswick on Academic Probation and graduated in 2011 at the top of his class. Shawn is a self-advocate, entrepreneur, innovator, counsellor and psychotherapist specializing in the emerging field of Neurodiversity. Shawn's work is being recognized internationally and he has been sought after to consult in various industries ranging from non-profit to the world of animation. For more about Shawn's work, visit: http://www.ddmacs.ca/ Follow Different Brains on social media: https://twitter.com/diffbrains https://www.facebook.com/different.brains/ https://www.instagram.com/diffbrains/ Check out more episodes of Exploring Different Brains! http://differentbrains.org/category/edb/

PDA expert and autism self-advocate Diane Gould, LCSW discusses Pervasive Demand Avoidance (previously known as Pathological Demand Avoidance). Diane is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker that specializes in serving autistic individuals. As the Executive Director and Founder of PDA North America, she founded the annual PDA North America conference held in Chicago that has changed the lives of hundreds of PDA (pathological demand avoidance/persistent drive for autonomy) families. She co-authored the book Navigating PDA in America with Ruth Fidler which was published in June 2024. In April 2024, Diane was diagnosed as autistic. Diane has a private practice in the suburbs of Chicago, where she serves neurodivergent children, adults and their families. Over the last 40 plus years, she has worked for both private agencies and school systems. Diane has always been facinated by human behavior and has worked to better understand and support individuals with distressed behavior over the years. She currently focuses her practice on providing consultation and training. She works primarily with parents and regularly attends school meetings with them. Diane loves to train educators and therapists so they can better serve their students and clients. It was the understanding of behavior, autism and the supportive approach in the PDA literature that first drew her to learn more about PDA. And learning about PDA, led her to begin the new PDA movement in North America. Diane formed PDA North America at the first American PDA conference in March 2020. She is the author of the new book Navigating PDA in America. For more information about Diane's work: https://dianegouldtherapy.com/ https://www.pdanorthamerica.org/ Follow Different Brains on social media: https://twitter.com/diffbrains https://www.facebook.com/different.brains/ https://www.instagram.com/diffbrains/ Check out more episodes of Exploring Different Brains! http://differentbrains.org/category/edb/

Linda J. Silver, M.S., Ed.S. discusses Section 504 of the U.S. Rehabilitation Act of 1973, and her career ensuring appropriate accommodations for students. Linda J. Silver, M.S., Ed.S. is the Executive Director and Founder of Silver & Associates Educational Consulting Solutions. She is an expert in the field of Section 504, an award winning certified school counselor, a nationally recognized speaker and published author advocating for students with disabilities. Linda's training and work experiences have given her a unique perspective on children, schools and school district dynamics. Linda has been a Teacher, Guidance Director, Educational Leader, District Guidance Coordinator. She was selected to work at the school district level in administrative positions serving grades Pre-K to 12 for Broward County Schools, Ft. Lauderdale, FL the 6th largest school district in the United States. In her roles as the School District Section 504/ADA Specialist and as the School District Guidance Coordinator for the School Board of Broward County, Florida she oversaw over 340 schools with over 265,000 students. Silver & Associates Educational Consulting Solutions provides expert educational consultation services to parents and schools districts; ensuring equal access to education for all students and helping transform students' lives. For more information about Linda's work: https://www.504advocacy.com/ Follow Different Brains on social media: https://twitter.com/diffbrains https://www.facebook.com/different.brains/ https://www.instagram.com/diffbrains/ Check out more episodes of Exploring Different Brains! http://differentbrains.org/category/edb/

Certified Trauma and Resiliency Expert Aisha T. McDonald, LMHC returned to discuss her work as a Suicidologist. and the importance of inclusive mental health. Aisha T. McDonald, LMHC is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Certified Trauma and Resiliency Expert. She has worked in the social services field for over 12 years in a variety of capacities ranging from advocacy, direct service, and macro-focused positions. She is also a Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging expert who aims to address the systemic barriers to equity in our community. Throughout her varied roles, Aisha has worked with marginalized populations within South Florida specifically those with severe and persistent mental illness, the forensic population in the criminal justice system and those incarcerated in local jail facilities, individuals with co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders, youth in the welfare system and those in the department of juvenile justice, and individuals who are involuntarily hospitalized under Florida's Baker Act and Marchman Act laws. She currently works for United Way of Broward County as the Director of Training Initiatives where she facilitates and moderates community-wide trainings and professional development workshops focused on mental health awareness and education, racial and cultural trauma, substance use issues, as well as diversity, inclusion and social equity. Aisha also serves as a Suicidologist for the American Association of Suicidology where she conducts Psychological Autopsy trainings for national and international groups. She has worked with FAU Sandler School of Social Work for a number of years to offer professional development workshops such as these in order to enhance professional and clinical skills for our community agencies and providers. For more information about the United Way of Broward County: https://www.unitedwaybroward.org/ For more about American Association of Suicidology: https://suicidology.org/ Follow Different Brains on social media: https://twitter.com/diffbrains https://www.facebook.com/different.brains/ https://www.instagram.com/diffbrains/ Check out more episodes of Exploring Different Brains! http://differentbrains.org/category/edb/

Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Certified Trauma and Resiliency Expert Aisha T. McDonald, LMHC explains why trauma should be looked at through an intersectional lens. Aisha T. McDonald, LMHC is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Certified Trauma and Resiliency Expert. She has worked in the social services field for over 12 years in a variety of capacities ranging from advocacy, direct service, and macro-focused positions. She is also a Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging expert who aims to address the systemic barriers to equity in our community. Throughout her varied roles, Aisha has worked with marginalized populations within South Florida specifically those with severe and persistent mental illness, the forensic population in the criminal justice system and those incarcerated in local jail facilities, individuals with co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders, youth in the welfare system and those in the department of juvenile justice, and individuals who are involuntarily hospitalized under Florida's Baker Act and Marchman Act laws. She currently works for United Way of Broward County as the Director of Training Initiatives where she facilitates and moderates community-wide trainings and professional development workshops focused on mental health awareness and education, racial and cultural trauma, substance use issues, as well as diversity, inclusion and social equity. Aisha also serves as a Suicidologist for the American Association of Suicidology where she conducts Psychological Autopsy trainings for national and international groups. She has worked with FAU Sandler School of Social Work for a number of years to offer professional development workshops such as these in order to enhance professional and clinical skills for our community agencies and providers. For more information about the United Way of Broward County: https://www.unitedwaybroward.org/ For more about American Association of Suicidology: https://suicidology.org/ Follow Different Brains on social media: https://twitter.com/diffbrains https://www.facebook.com/different.brains/ https://www.instagram.com/diffbrains/ Check out more episodes of Exploring Different Brains! http://differentbrains.org/category/edb/

Autism self-advocate, author, and speaker Sam Farmer discusses replacing internalized ableism with self-acceptance. Sam Farmer is an information technology consultant, neurodiversity community self-advocate, writer, author and public speaker. Identified later in life as autistic, he writes articles, records podcasts and presents at libraries, conferences and for corporations and autism community organizations, sharing stories of lived experiences and his opinions on a variety of topics of relevance to the neurodiversity and disability communities. A Long Walk Down a Winding Road - Small Steps, Challenges, & Triumphs Through an Autistic Lens is his first book. Hei is also Lead Self-Advocate at Floreo, which uses virtual reality to teach social, communication, behavioral, and life skills to neurodiverse individuals and others who can benefit from practicing these skills. For more about Sam's work and his new book: https://www.samfarmerauthor.com/ For more about Floreo: https://floreovr.com/ Follow Different Brains on social media: https://twitter.com/diffbrains https://www.facebook.com/different.brains/ https://www.instagram.com/diffbrains/ Check out more episodes of Exploring Different Brains! http://differentbrains.org/category/edb/

Dr. Craig Escudé discusses the importance of training doctors to care for the IDD and neurodivergent communities. Dr. Craig Escudé is a board-certified Fellow of the American Academy of Family Physicians and the American Academy of Developmental Medicine with over 20 years of clinical experience providing medical care for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and complex medical conditions. He is the president of IntellectAbility, the mission of which is to “…provide tools and training to those who support people with vulnerabilities, helping them replace risk with health and wellness.” Dr. Escudé's pursuit of educating clinicians led him to create the Curriculum in IDD Healthcare, the first-of-its-kind eLearn course that teaches the fundamentals of IDD healthcare to physicians, nurses, medical students, and other clinicians. Through this course, his lectures, and his writings, he has taught thousands of clinicians and supporters throughout the United States and beyond. In addition to being regularly published in Exceptional Parent Magazine, he also co-authors “Unlocking Behaviors” article series in Helen: The Journal of Human Exceptionality which sheds light on how many so-called “adverse behaviors” in people with IDD are actually due to treatable medical, environmental or social causes. He also hosts the podcast “IDD Health Matters with Craig Escudé, MD,” where he speaks with a wide range of leaders, self-advocates, agency directors, clinicians, administrators, and others from across the globe involved in designing and facilitating service delivery to people with IDD. For more about Dr. Escudé's work: https://www.replacingrisk.com/ And look for IDD Health Matters Podcast, including on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@IDDHealthMatters/featured Follow Different Brains on social media: https://twitter.com/diffbrains https://www.facebook.com/different.brains/ https://www.instagram.com/diffbrains/ Check out more episodes of Exploring Different Brains! http://differentbrains.org/category/edb/

Cheryl Checkers and Dr. Christopher Kye shares their experience working with autistic patients experiencing mental health challenges. Cheryl Checkers is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, National Board-Certified Counselor, and Certified Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist who specializes in working with teens and adults on the autism spectrum and their loved ones. She is the President of the Board of Directors of the National Alliance on Mental Illness of Palm Beach County (NAMI PBC). Cheryl also is a clinical consultant for Florida Atlantic University Center for Autism and Related Disabilities (FAU CARD).She received her Master of Science Degree in Psychology and Mental Health Counseling from Nova Southeastern University. She is both a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Board-Certified Counselor. She also holds advanced certifications as an Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist (ASDCS), a Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional (CCATP), a Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP) and a Certified Clinical ADHD Treatment Professional (ADHD-CCSP). Dr. Christopher Kye is a distinguished psychiatrist with over 20 years of experience in caring for individuals from all walks of life. He is deeply committed to incorporating the latest neuroscience insights to enhance the effectiveness of the treatments he offers. Dr. Kye's clinical practice focuses on the needs of children with autism and individuals with mood disorders who have proven resistant to standard treatments. His approach is rooted in a deep understanding of neuroscience, leveraging his research background to enhance patient care. Dr. Kye regularly shares his knowledge on neuropsychiatric topics at various institutions and conferences, including the Center for Autism and Related Disorders at Florida Atlantic University and the National Alliance on Mental Illness. His presentations often focus on the practical application of neuroscience in clinical settings, aiming to improve patient outcomes by better understanding brain-behavior relationships. Dr. Kye is an active member of several professional organizations, including the Society of Biological Psychiatry and the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. His commitment to advancing the field is also evident in his role on the Associate Board of Directors for the National Alliance on Mental Illness in Palm Beach County, where he was honored with the 2015 Exemplary Psychiatrist Award. For more about Cheryl: https://www.cherylcheckers.com/ For more about Dr. Kye: https://www.christopherkyemd.com/ For more about FAU CARD: https://www.fau.edu/education/centersandprograms/card/ FAU CARD's YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com/c/FAUCARD For more about NAMI PBC: https://namipbc.org/ Follow Different Brains on social media: https://twitter.com/diffbrains https://www.facebook.com/different.brains/ https://www.instagram.com/diffbrains/ Check out more episodes of Exploring Different Brains! http://differentbrains.org/category/edb/

Epilepsy Alliance Florida's Anna Diaz & Luis Martinez share facts about seizure disorders, and how the Alliance is working to increase awareness and support. Anna Diaz is a Social Service Aide for the Epilepsy Alliance Florida (EAF), and is herself an epilepsy self-advocate. Luis Martinez is a Community Resource Specialist for EAF. Established in 1971 as a not-for-profit 501(c)(3), EAF is the principal agency for epilepsy programs and services sponsored by the State of Florida, servicing over half a million Floridians who live with the condition. For most of our history we were known as Epilepsy Foundation of Florida but in July 2018 we formally changed our name as we co –founded Epilepsy Alliance America, a nation-wide network of community-based epilepsy organizations. EAF also serves as the lead advocate for the rights and needs of people with epilepsy and seizures at the local, county, state and national level. For more about EAF: https://epilepsyalliancefl.org/ Follow Different Brains on social media: https://twitter.com/diffbrains https://www.facebook.com/different.brains/ https://www.instagram.com/diffbrains/ Check out more episodes of Exploring Different Brains! http://differentbrains.org/category/edb/

9Muses Art Center's Nicole Storrs shares how their drop-in center is helping people with mental health challenges. 9Muses Art Center is a drop-in center located in Fort Lauderdale, FL. They are a program of Mental Health America of Southeast Florida providing free peer-driven behavioral health support to adults with mental health and substance abuse disorders. The center has a fully functioning studio for fine arts classes and ceramic art. Participants may choose from a broad array of visual and performing arts. Classes and personalized instruction along with individual studio time allow members to create according to their own personal “muse." Evidenced-based wellness activities and anxiety and depression support groups are held weekly. Members can engage in stimulating activity, free from the stigma of mental illness. The center has been promoting wellness for over 20 years and functions successfully as a peer-run organization. Members are free to come and go as they please, participate in any art classes, support groups, and wellness activities they wish, or sit and enjoy coffee and conversation with other members. Positive interaction creates a sense of empowerment and promotes mental health. Come join us! See what a Muse can do for you... For more about 9Muses: https://9musesartcenter.org/ For more information about programs by Mental Health America of Southeast Florida: https://www.mhasefl.org/ Follow Different Brains on social media: https://twitter.com/diffbrains https://www.facebook.com/different.brains/ https://www.instagram.com/diffbrains/ Check out more episodes of Exploring Different Brains! http://differentbrains.org/category/edb/

Katherine Murphy, CEO of NAMI Palm Beach County, share how the alliance is helping people with mental health challenges in South Florida and throughout the nation. NAMI Palm Beach County is an affiliate of NAMI - THE national Alliance on Mental Illness. From their website: “NAMI PBC is an organization dedicated to providing support, education and advocacy with the goal to empower persons with mental illness and their families. Support groups, information on community resources, advocacy, educational programs (such as Peer-to-Peer and Family-to-Family) and one-on-one peer mentoring are just some of the many services provided by NAMI PBC to Palm Beach County residents. As a nonprofit organization that relies on the generous donations of our members and others, our fundraising events, and that receives grant funds to support programs, all services and programs offered by NAMI PBC are free to those who use them… “…NAMI PBC strives to be the recognized leading organization for improving the quality of life and protecting the rights and interests of those affected by mental illness in Palm Beach County. Elimination of the stigma attached to mental illness is essential to achieve the goals of empowerment, social inclusion and recovery.” For more about NAMI PBC: https://namipbc.org/ Or for information about the national website: https://nami.org/ Follow Different Brains on social media: https://twitter.com/diffbrains https://www.facebook.com/different.brains/ https://www.instagram.com/diffbrains/ Check out more episodes of Exploring Different Brains! http://differentbrains.org/category/edb/

Fusion Academy's Tainah Georges explains how they use a one-student-to-one-teacher model that allows students to achieve academically. Fusion describes itself as: “the world's most personalized middle and high school, with 1-to-1 classes that match your student's pace and preferences, so they can learn better, dive deeper, and never get left behind.” Their Mission statement: “Guided by a fundamental belief in the immense potential within every person, our mission is to help each student flourish – emotionally, socially, and academically – through positive, mentoring relationships and a personalized education experience.” Michelle Rose Gilman founded Fusion Academy out of frustration with the status quo, and a need for personalized education in her community. What began with one campus in Solana Beach, California in 1989 expanded to add a Los Angeles campus in 2010 through the help of what is now Fusion Education Group. Since then, Fusion has expanded to over 80 campuses across the country and changes the lives of thousands of families each year. For more about Fusion Academy: https://www.fusionacademy.com/ Follow Different Brains on social media: https://twitter.com/diffbrains https://www.facebook.com/different.brains/ https://www.instagram.com/diffbrains/ Check out more episodes of Exploring Different Brains! http://differentbrains.org/category/edb/

Canine Assisted Therapy's Courtney Trzcinski, Laura Rogers, and Gracie share what therapy animals do, and how they positively impact those with social and health challenges. Canine Assisted Therapy, Inc. is a pet therapy organization located in Broward County, Florida. Their mission is to improve the health and well-being of people in need through the healing power of the human-animal bond. From their website: “Utilizing our certified handlers and their therapy dogs, we are dedicated to providing pet therapy to children and adults who have developmental, emotional, or physical challenges, as well as those in need of comfort and companionship.” Courtney Trzcinski is the director of outreach and development at Canine Assisted Therapy. Laura Rogers is a volunteer dog handler there, where she shares her dog Gracie with the community. For more about Canine Assisted Therapy: https://catdogs.org/ Follow Different Brains on social media: https://twitter.com/diffbrains https://www.facebook.com/different.brains/ https://www.instagram.com/diffbrains/ Check out more episodes of Exploring Different Brains! http://differentbrains.org/category/edb/

University of Miami's Shelly Baer & Jairo Arana discuss their Self-Advocate Leadership Training (SALT) program. Shelly Baer is a licensed clinical social worker, disability self-advocate, and the director of leadership training initiatives at the University of Miami School of Medicine's Mailman Center for Child Development. Jairo Arana is a clinical program coordinator at the University of Miami School of Medicine's Mailman Center for Child Development. Shelly is coordinator and Jairo a graduate of and trainer in the Center's Self-Advocate Leadership Training program (SALT). Project SALT aims to teach a leadership skills curriculum to individuals with disabilities so that they can learn strategies to advocate for themselves and others and to effect larger systems-level change. The vision of the project: to produce an ever-growing cadre of individuals with the capacity for self-determination and independence and the ability to participate in their communities in meaningful ways. For more about the SALT program: https://med.miami.edu/centers-and-institutes/mailman-center/education/leadership-training-opportunities/salt Follow Different Brains on social media: https://twitter.com/diffbrains https://www.facebook.com/different.brains/ https://www.instagram.com/diffbrains/ Check out more episodes of Exploring Different Brains! http://differentbrains.org/category/edb/

Zachary Tovin shares his perspective on being an autism self-advocate. Zach is on the Autism Spectrum and grew up in South Florida. After high school, he attended the Horizons School in Birmingham, Alabama, where he studied and honed the skills he would need to live and work independently. In 2019, Zach graduated from ARC Broward Culinary Arts program, receiving his Culinary Arts certification in knife and cooking skills. He is a board member of Casa Familia, a non-profit organization dedicated to creating sustainable, enriched and affordable housing communities, with features, amenities and services designed to benefit adults with intellectual, developmental, and other related disabilities. When he is not working, Zach enjoys photography, listening to music, playing video games and hanging out with friends. Zach is a member of the Camera Club at Flamingo Gardens, and has displayed his photography at various events in South Florida. For more about Zach: https://zachtovinphotography.wordpress.com/ For more about Casa Familia: https://casafamiliainc.org/ Follow Different Brains on social media: https://twitter.com/diffbrains https://www.facebook.com/different.brains/ https://www.instagram.com/diffbrains/ Check out more episodes of Exploring Different Brains! http://differentbrains.org/category/edb/

Anthony Pacilio of CAI shares of they are helping organizations realize the benefits of neurodiversity. Anthony Pacilio, is recognized domestically and internationally, as an expert in neurodiverse employment and currently serves as Vice President of CAI Neurodiverse Solutions. Pacilio specializes in advancing neurodiversity programs and leads the global expansion efforts of CAI Neurodiverse Solutions. CAI Neurodiverse Solutions is an end-to-end neurodiversity employment program that helps organizations realize the benefits of neurodiversity. Our successful employment model is designed to bring the untapped talent pool of neurodivergent individuals into the workforce and creates more career opportunities for the neurodiverse community. Our mission is to build innovative business solutions that deliver results while developing rewarding, long-lasting careers for the neurodiverse community and leading the way to an inclusive workforce environment. For more about CAI Neurodiverse Solutions: https://www.cai.io/neurodiverse-solutions/ Or visit their homepage at: https://www.cai.io/ Follow Different Brains on social media: https://twitter.com/diffbrains https://www.facebook.com/different.brains/ https://www.instagram.com/diffbrains/ Check out more episodes of Exploring Different Brains! http://differentbrains.org/category/edb/

Self-advocate & EMT Ali Idriss discusses how his ADHD traits help him navigate his work in emergency rooms, and offers advice for dealing with a trip to the ER. Ali Idriss is a Different Brains team member and ADHD self-advocate. He aspires to share his journey and help others with the tools that have allowed him to overcome many of the challenges along the way, as he co-hosts the webisode series ADHD Power Tools. Ali has also completed his bachelor's in Biological Sciences at Florida Atlantic University and is currently completing his second bachelor's in Neuroscience and Behavior as he is conducting both clinical and public health research. He is also an Emergency Room Tech/EMT aspiring to become a Physician. For more about Ali's work: https://differentbrains.org/author/ali-idriss/ http://differentbrains.org/category/adhd-power-tools/ Follow Different Brains on social media: https://twitter.com/diffbrains https://www.facebook.com/different.brains/ https://www.instagram.com/diffbrains/ Check out more episodes of Exploring Different Brains! http://differentbrains.org/category/edb/

Dr. Jennie Trocchio shares how developmental therapy can help autistic individuals, and how it differs from behavioral methods. Dr. Jennie Trocchio is an autism educator, speaker, Developmental Therapist, and Vice President of Clinical Operations at Positive Development. Positive Development's mission is to “…help people with autism and other developmental differences build connections and shape their futures.” Positive Development follows the Developmental Relationship-Based Intervention (DRBI) model. Jennie is a Maryland native located in sunny South Florida. With a Bachelor's from University of Miami in Special Education and Creative Writing and a Master's in Exceptional Student Education and Reading, Jennie worked in special education in Miami-Dade County Public Schools. During this time she developed a focus on autism and was introduced to DIR/Floortime approach. This model was put into practice at CasaBlanca Academy, a non-profit school for students with autism, where Jennie became the lead teacher, Director of Education and later the President of the Board of Directors. In 2013, Jennie graduated with a Ph.D. from Barry University in Special Education and Leadership with a focus in Autism. Her research included a collaboration with Dr. Rick Solomon, the Medical Director of the P.L.A.Y Project in Ann Arbor, Michigan. In 2014, Jennie left her role at the school, and is currently teaching the autism courses at Barry University and Lynn University. She is certified in DIR/Floortime, PLAY Project and Teaching PLAY. For more about Jennie's work: https://www.positivedevelopment.com/ https://www.drjennie.co/ Follow Different Brains on social media: https://twitter.com/diffbrains https://www.facebook.com/different.brains/ https://www.instagram.com/diffbrains/ Check out more episodes of Exploring Different Brains! http://differentbrains.org/category/edb/

In the second part of our review of 2023, we hear from some of the neurodiversity change-makers that have appeared on the show. Featured are: DR. MICHAEL ALESSANDRI - full interview: https://differentbrains.org/working-together-for-the-autism-community-with-dr-michael-alessandri-edb-290/ | learn more about their work here: https://people.miami.edu/profile/fb8af2465e6219dc0d6be35a692a7472 CHRISTINA SULLIVAN - full interview: https://differentbrains.org/individualized-learning-for-the-neurodivergent-with-christina-sullivan-edb-311/ | learn more about their work here: https://www.evolvelearningcommunity.com/ HINRIK ATLASON - full interview: https://differentbrains.org/atlas-primer-making-education-accessible-with-hinrik-josafat-atlason-edb-305/ | learn more about their work here: https://www.atlasprimer.com/ TERC team members DR. ZACHARY ALSTAD & DR. IBRAHIM DAHLSTROM-HAKKI - full interview: https://differentbrains.org/neurodiversity-in-s-t-e-m-education-with-the-terc-team-edb-304/ | learn more about their work here: https://www.terc.edu/ HILARY KOKENDA - full interview: https://differentbrains.org/launching-neurodivergent-careers-with-hilary-kokenda-of-zavikon-edb-296/ | learn more about their work here: https://www.zavikon.net/ DR. MAI PHAM - full interview: https://differentbrains.org/exceptional-care-for-the-neurodivergent-with-dr-hoangmai-mai-pham-edb-291/ | learn more about their work here: https://www.ie-care.org/ DR. COLE GALLOWAY - full interview: https://differentbrains.org/go-baby-go-independence-through-mobility-with-dr-cole-galloway-edb-288/ | learn more about their work here: https://sites.udel.edu/gobabygo/contact/ DR ERIN BROOKER LOZOTT - full interview: https://differentbrains.org/els-for-autism-creating-lifelong-resources-for-the-neurodivergent-w-dr-erin-brooker-lozott-edb-287/ | learn more about their work here: https://www.elsforautism.org/ JOSEPH LENTO - full interview: https://differentbrains.org/rethinking-education-making-school-work-for-every-brain-with-joseph-lento-edb-307/ | learn more about their work here: http://differentbrains.org/author/joseph-lento/ LAUREN SHURE - full interview: https://differentbrains.org/psychology-social-justice-with-lauren-shure-ph-d-lmhc-edb-301/ | learn more about their work here: https://www.barry.edu/en/c-vitae/professors/lauren-shure-ph-d/ JR HARDING - full interview: https://differentbrains.org/pioneering-workplace-inclusion-with-dr-jr-harding-edb-297/ | learn more about their work here: https://jrharding.com/ Follow Different Brains on social media: https://twitter.com/diffbrains https://www.facebook.com/different.brains/ https://www.instagram.com/diffbrains/ Check out more episodes of Exploring Different Brains! http://differentbrains.org/category/edb/

In the first part of our review of 2023, we hear from the neurodivergent self-advocates that have appeared on the show. Featured are: JR HARDING - full interview: https://differentbrains.org/pioneering-workplace-inclusion-with-dr-jr-harding-edb-297/ | learn more about their work at: https://jrharding.com/ HAYLEY & MATTHEW LEACH - full interview: https://differentbrains.org/autism-advocacy-siblings-with-hayley-and-matthew-leach-edb-306/ | learn more about their work at: https://linktr.ee/hayleyleach KAYLAH TAYLOR / AUTISM THEATER PROJECT - full interview: https://differentbrains.org/the-autism-theater-project-creating-inclusion-on-the-stage-screen-edb-303/ | learn more about their work at: https://autismtheaterproject.org/ TRAVIS MISURELL - full interview: https://differentbrains.org/making-democracy-accessible-with-travis-misurell-edb-302/ | learn more about their work at: https://futureis.org/ SHANNA ANSSARI - full interview: https://differentbrains.org/studying-psychology-maintaining-mental-health-with-shanna-anssari-edb-295/ JOSE DEL CUETO - full interview: https://differentbrains.org/succeeding-after-trauma-with-jose-del-cueto-edb-294/ | learn more about their work at: https://www.josedelcueto.com/ CYNTHIA HAMMER - full interview: https://differentbrains.org/living-with-inattentive-adhd-with-cynthia-hammer-edb-312/ | learn more about their work at: http://www.iadhd.org/ GABRIELA GUARDARRAMA - full interview: https://differentbrains.org/navigating-mental-health-challenges-with-gabriela-guardarrama-edb-310/ | learn more about their work at: https://differentbrains.org/author/gguardarrama/ MICHAEL ELLENBOGEN - full interview: https://differentbrains.org/living-with-dementia-with-michael-ellenbogen-edb-286/ | learn more about their work at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/%E2%98%85michael%E2%98%85ellenbogen%E2%98%85/ BROOKE SCHNITTMAN - full interview: https://differentbrains.org/activate-your-adhd-potential-with-brooke-schnittman-ma-pcc-bcc-edb-309/ | learn more about their work at: https://www.coachingwithbrooke.com/ Follow Different Brains on social media: https://twitter.com/diffbrains https://www.facebook.com/different.brains/ https://www.instagram.com/diffbrains/ Check out more episodes of Exploring Different Brains! http://differentbrains.org/category/edb/

Cynthia Hammer, self-advocate & founder of the Inattentive ADHD Coalition, shares her experiences with the disorder, and how it can differ from other types of ADHD. Cynthia Hammer is the Founder and Executive Director of the Inattentive ADHD Coalition, and author of the book She earned her Master's Degree in Social Work in 1972. For many years she was a stay-at-home mom raising three sons while her husband spent long days at work as a general surgeon. She started a non-profit organization in 1993 to help adults with ADHD, and she recently started a different non-profit, the Inattentive ADHd Coalition to create more awareness of Inattentive ADHD. For more about the Inattentive ADHD Coalition: www.iadhd.org To learn more about Cynthia's book: https://a.co/d/h8EpdXI Follow Different Brains on social media: https://twitter.com/diffbrains https://www.facebook.com/different.brains/ https://www.instagram.com/diffbrains/ Check out more episodes of Exploring Different Brains! http://differentbrains.org/category/edb/

Evolve Learning Community's Christina Sullivan discusses how the micro-school gives unique support to students that have struggled in traditional classrooms. Christina Sullivan is Co-Founder and Clinical Director of Evolve Learning Community (ELC), and provides individual therapy, coaching, training, and consultation in the community. From ELC's website: “ELC is a progressive and inclusive homeschool drop-off program that supports cognitively average to above average middle and high school students who are neurodivergent, gifted, have anxiety or mild learning differences. We also provide in-person and virtual tutoring and one-on-one classes for learners ages 5-18.” Christina Sullivan, MSW (Master in Social Work), LCSW (Licensed Clinical Social Worker), ADHD-CCSP (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder-Certified Clinical Services Specialist), earned her Bachelor's in Psychology from University of Maryland at College Park and a Master's in Social Work degree from Barry University in Miami. She is also the mother of a now-adult son diagnosed with Pervasive Developmental Disorder and Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, For more about ELC: https://www.evolvelearningcommunity.com/ Follow Different Brains on social media: https://twitter.com/diffbrains https://www.facebook.com/different.brains/ https://www.instagram.com/diffbrains/ Check out more episodes of Exploring Different Brains! http://differentbrains.org/category/edb/

Mental Health counselor Gabriela Guardarrama shares her personal experiences dealing with bipolar disorder. Gaby is an an Outpatient Mental Health Therapist in the South Florida area. She was diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder Type 1 at age 19, and is dedicated to helping others deal with their mental health challenges. She is also a poet who uses her writing as a mental wellness tool, and to help others. Follow Different Brains on social media: https://twitter.com/diffbrains https://www.facebook.com/different.brains/ https://www.instagram.com/diffbrains/ Check out more episodes of Exploring Different Brains! http://differentbrains.org/category/edb/

ADHD Coach & self-advocate Brooke Schnittman MA, PCC, BCC returns to discuss helping people overcome ADHD related challenges. Brooke Schnittman MA, PCC, BCC is an esteemed expert in the field of ADHD management and support, renowned for her unwavering dedication to empowering individuals with ADHD to overcome challenges and achieve their full potential. Her new book is Activate Your ADHD Potential. ​Brooke's personal journey, being diagnosed with ADHD later in life and marrying into a family of ADHDers, has provided her with profound insight and empathy for her clients. In 2002, she embarked on her mission to make a positive impact in the lives of individuals with disabilities. She earned her Bachelor's in Elementary Education from Penn State University and her Master's Degree from New York University, specializing in Students With Disabilities. With over two decades of experience, Brooke has worked closely with thousands of individuals with ADHD, utilizing her comprehensive knowledge and expertise to guide them toward success. In 2018, she founded Coaching With Brooke, a groundbreaking organization that has rapidly become a leading global authority in the field of ADHD coaching. Beyond her coaching practice, Brooke actively contributes to the ADHD community through various initiatives. She is the mastermind behind ADHDEdCamp, a platform that fosters education and collaboration within the ADHD community. Additionally, Brooke co-hosts the popular ADHD PowerTools podcast and hosts the SuccessFULL with ADHD Podcast, where she shares valuable insights and strategies to help individuals overcome obstacles and achieve success. For more about Brooke: https://www.coachingwithbrooke.com/ To order Brooke's book: https://www.coachingwithbrooke.com/activatebook Follow Different Brains on social media: https://twitter.com/diffbrains https://www.facebook.com/different.brains/ https://www.instagram.com/diffbrains/ Check out more episodes of Exploring Different Brains! http://differentbrains.org/category/edb/

Author & psychiatrist Dr. Mark Goulston shares the peace and wisdom he has found while facing cancer. Originally a UCLA professor of psychiatry for over 25 years, and a former FBI and police hostage negotiation trainer, Dr. Mark Goulston's expertise has been forged and proven in the crucible of real-life, high stakes situations. An influencer who helps influencers become more influential, his unique background has made him an indispensable and sought after resource and change facilitator to Fortune 500 leaders, entrepreneurs and educators across the nation. He is also host of the podcast My Wakeup Call. and is a producer on the documentary What I Wish My Parents Knew. For more about Dr. Goulston: http://markgoulston.com/ For Mark's “I'm Dying to Tell You” series: https://www.youtube.com/@Imdyingtotellyoudrmark To learn more about the Deeper Coaching Institute: https://ongloballeadership.com/dci Follow Different Brains on social media: https://twitter.com/diffbrains https://www.facebook.com/different.brains/ https://www.instagram.com/diffbrains/ Check out more episodes of Exploring Different Brains! http://differentbrains.org/category/edb/

Educator & musician Joseph Lento discusses how he thinks the education system can better serve neurodiverse students. Joseph Lento is an educator and a Conservatory-trained professional Musician. He is licensed by NYS as a Teacher of Orchestral Music and School District Administration and began his career in 1984. In 1999 he was named NYC Bronx County High School Teacher of the Year. In 2014 President Barack Obama named him a National Teacher of Arts and Humanities. Joseph is called on frequently by local Radio Hosts, NY Cable TV and local T.V. News stations as an expert on Music, Special Needs students and curriculum development. Joseph can be emailed at JSLMaestro@gmail.com You can also check out the blogs he has written for us here: http://differentbrains.org/author/joseph-lento/ Follow Different Brains on social media: https://twitter.com/diffbrains https://www.facebook.com/different.brains/ https://www.instagram.com/diffbrains/ Check out more episodes of Exploring Different Brains! http://differentbrains.org/category/edb/

Miss Missouri 2023 Hayley Leach and self-advocate Matthew Leach discuss being siblings working together to advocate for the autism community. Hayley Leach is a 25 year-old law student at Washington University in St. Louis and was recently crowned Miss Missouri 2023. During her year of service, Hayley will travel the state of Missouri and promote a community service initiative (CSI) of her choice. Hayley's CSI is autism awareness and acceptance which was inspired by her brother, Matthew, who was diagnosed with autism in 2002. Upon graduation from law school, Hayley plans on practicing Labor and Employment law with a specialty in disability issues and advocacy. Since competing in the Miss America Organization, Hayley has accumulated over $31,000 in scholarships which have been used to further her education. She will go on to represent Missouri at the Miss America Competition later this year. Matthew Leach currently resides in Lexington, Kentucky where he is a senior at the University of Kentucky. He majors in Biology and plans to further his education by going to graduate school and getting a master's degree in Forensic Science. His favorite things to do are reading, going to the movies, and spending time with his French Bulldog, Chloe. Together they have co-authored two books: "Frankie and Finn" and "See the Able, Not the Label." They also host the podcast called "Puzzle in Progress”, available on Apple and Spotify Podcasts. For more about their work: https://linktr.ee/hayleyleach Follow Different Brains on social media: https://twitter.com/diffbrains https://www.facebook.com/different.brains/ https://www.instagram.com/diffbrains/ Check out more episodes of Exploring Different Brains! http://differentbrains.org/category/edb/

Atlas Primer CEO and founder Hinrik Jósafat Atlason shares how the learning assistant app can make education more accessible for neurodivergent learners. Atlas primer is a learning assistant app that creates a “personal learning environment” for it's users. Atlas Primer was founded on the vision of creating a learning environment that combined the accessibility and convenience of audiobooks and podcasts, with the interactivity and flexibility offered by voice assistants and smart devices. The primary goal of Atlas Primer is to increase the availability of quality education through the use of technology, by increasing access, usability and automation. Their approach allows the creation of interactive learning environments with even the simplest of devices and in the most remote locations. For more about Atlas Primer: https://www.atlasprimer.com/ Follow Different Brains on social media: https://twitter.com/diffbrains https://www.facebook.com/different.brains/ https://www.instagram.com/diffbrains/ Check out more episodes of Exploring Different Brains! http://differentbrains.org/category/edb/

Team members from TERC share the organization's innovative work for improving S.T.E.M. education, and making it more inclusive for neurodivergent learners. TERC team members featured are: Dr. Jodi Asbell-Clarke is an educational researcher focusing on game-based learning, computational thinking, and neurodiversity in K-12. Dr. Asbell-Clarke's academic background includes an MA in math, an M.Sc. in astrophysics, and a Ph.D. in curriculum, teaching, and learning. Early in her career, Jodi was an onboard software verification analyst for IBM during the first 25 missions of the space shuttle and later taught Physics and Astrophysics at the laboratory school at University of Illinois. She has led national and international STEM education projects involving curriculum development, professional development of teachers, and educational research. In 2009, she co-founded the Educational Gaming Environments group (EdGE) at TERC to study how game-based learning and is now a co-founder of NDinSTEM at TERC to focus on innovative pedagogies can foster inclusive STEM education. Dr. Ibrahim Dahlstrom-Hakki is a senior research scientist at TERC. A cognitive psychologist by training, his research focuses on the use of theories of cognitive science to improve STEM learning for neurodiverse populations of learners. Dr. Dahlstrom-Hakki is a first-generation Arab American who is particularly interested in better understanding and supporting learners with an intersectionality of identities that impact their learning. His current projects include exploring the use of VR, AR, and other technologies to teach science to neurodivergent learners. Dr. Dahlstrom-Hakki was the director of the Landmark College Institute for Research and Training, conducting research and providing professional development training to educators working with students with LD, ADHD, and autism. Dr. Zachary Alstad is an experienced educational consultant, teacher, and researcher. He has been accepted into top publications such as the Journal of Writing Research. He has taught at almost every level from kindergarten through college and adult education. Dr. Alstad is currently a researcher on several National Science Foundation grants exploring educational technologies for neurodiverse students. His ongoing mission is to help students who struggle with school to feel capable and be successful. Dr. Alstad is passionate about neurodiversity because of professional interest and personal diagnosis. For more about TERC: https://www.terc.edu/ Follow Different Brains on social media: https://twitter.com/diffbrains https://www.facebook.com/different.brains/ https://www.instagram.com/diffbrains/ Check out more episodes of Exploring Different Brains! http://differentbrains.org/category/edb/

Members of the Autism Theater Project share how they are working to change the perception of neurodiversity through performing. The Autism Theater Project is a a non-profit organization dedicated to empowering the autism community. We express the voice of the autism community through theatrical experiences, and empower special needs children to express their own voices through our drama therapy workshops. Their latest production is a web series titles “The Voice Inside”. Featured in this episode are: Gena Sims (founder of the Autism Theater Projects, producer, director, writer, performer, and autism advocate), Matteo Esposito (autism self-advocate, playwright, and co-writer of “The Voice Inside”), Kaylah Taylor (autism self-advocate, performer, teacher, and actress in “The Voice Inside”), and Zack Hoaglund (autism self-advocate, performer, filmmaker, and actor in “The Voice Inside”). For more about The Autism Theater Project: https://autismtheaterproject.org/ www.facebook.com/AutismTheatreProject Follow Different Brains on social media: https://twitter.com/diffbrains https://www.facebook.com/different.brains/ https://www.instagram.com/diffbrains/ Check out more episodes of Exploring Different Brains! http://differentbrains.org/category/edb/

Autism self-advocate Travis Misurell shares how the Future Is Now Coalition is working to make the democratic process more accessible. From the FiNC website: “They say those who don't conform to society create the most significant changes to the world. FiNC founder Travis Misurell, a neurodivergent and atypical thinker, saw how backward, contradictory, and antiquated our political systems are and felt compelled to design a solution. “Armed with a BA in Psychology and over a decade of experience in Operations and Process Management, Travis developed the tools to solve the increasing partisan divide, introducing the concept of Digital Politics. Travis founded the Future is Now Coalition (FiNC) using his unique perspective, passion for transparency, and the need to educate and empower Americans. Soon after, he was joined by over 40 people who felt the same and were willing to volunteer their time to bring FiNC, Digital Democracy, and the FiNC Research Hub to life.” For more about FiNC: https://futureis.org/ Follow Different Brains on social media: https://twitter.com/diffbrains https://www.facebook.com/different.brains/ https://www.instagram.com/diffbrains/ Check out more episodes of Exploring Different Brains! http://differentbrains.org/category/edb/

Dr. Lauren Shure discusses social justice in the field of psychology, and the importance of inclusive mental health care. Lauren Shure is a Professor of Counseling at Barry University. She is also a Past-President of the Counselors for Social Justice (CSJ). Dr. Shure holds a B.S. in psychology, M.Ed. and Ed.S.in marriage and family counseling, and Ph.D. in counselor education with a specialization in clinical mental health counseling from the University of Florida. She is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) in Florida with extensive experience in crisis intervention and the treatment of trauma, as well as a Qualified Supervisor for Registered Mental Health Counseling and Marriage and Family Therapy Interns. Ever since serving as a Qualified Social Worker (QSW) for the National Health Service (NHS) in London, England in 2005 with a very diverse group of colleagues and clients, she has pursued education, training, and experiences to learn how to most effectively create spaces to promote justice, equity, inclusion, and belonging for all. This includes using her professional counseling skills and knowledge in a progressively decolonized way to promote connection, healing, and wellness through the utilization of interventions, such as restorative justice, community needs assessments, trauma-informed care, and other strengths-based approaches to promote social justice and empowerment. For more about Lauren: https://www.barry.edu/en/c-vitae/professors/lauren-shure-ph-d/ https://www.instagram.com/healthyhappylifehacks/ Follow Different Brains on social media: https://twitter.com/diffbrains https://www.facebook.com/different.brains/ https://www.instagram.com/diffbrains/ Check out more episodes of Exploring Different Brains! http://differentbrains.org/category/edb/

In this special 300th episode, we revisit words of wisdom from self-advocates with varied traits and diagnoses that span the “spectrum of neurodiversity”. Featured are: TARA LERMAN - Tourette's self-advocate, ournalist (full interview: https://differentbrains.org/demystifying-tourette-syndrome-with-tara-lerman-edb-263/ ) To find out more about Tara's work, visit: https://www.taralerman.com/   MICHAEL TOLLEFSRUD - Misophonia self-advocate, Different Brains intern (full interview: https://differentbrains.org/life-with-misophonia-with-michael-tollefsrud-edb-226/ )   PRESTON FITZGERALD - Tuberous Sclerosis self-advocate, Different Brains intern (full interview: https://differentbrains.org/living-with-tuberous-sclerosis-with-preston-fitzgerald-edb-239/ )   SARAH GOLDMAN - Cerebral Palsy self-advocate and disability rights advocate (full interview: https://differentbrains.org/advocating-for-accessibility-accommodations-with-sarah-goldman-edb-225/ ) To find out more about Sarah's work, visit: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahegoldman/ JULIA FUTO - Developmental Coordination Disorder self-advocate, Different Brains intern (full interview: https://differentbrains.org/dcd-me-living-with-developmental-coordination-disorder-featuring-julia-futo-edb-237/ )   KAYLA MCKEON - Down syndrome self-advocate, Manager of Grassroots Advocacy for the National Down Syndrome Society (full interview: https://differentbrains.org/the-groundbreaking-lobbyist-with-down-syndrome-featuring-kayla-mckeon-edb-159/ ) To find out more about Kayla's work, visit: http://kaylamckeon.com/   RYAN LUNDY - Nonverbal Learning Disorder self-advocate, special ambassador for the NVLD Project (full interview: https://differentbrains.org/understanding-nvld-with-ryan-lundy-edb-272/ ) To find out more about the NVLD Project, visit: https://nvldproject.org/   MICHAEL ELLENBOGEN - Dementia self-advocate and author (full interview: https://differentbrains.org/living-with-dementia-with-michael-ellenbogen-edb-286/ )   SHAWN SMITH - ADHD and autism self-advocate, entrepreneur, innovator, counsellor, psychotherapist, and CEO of Don't dis-my-ability consultation services (full interview: https://differentbrains.org/thriving-with-adhd-with-shawn-smith-me-d-ccc-edb-244/ ) To find out more about Shawn's work, visit: http://www.ddmacs.ca/   PIERRE MARSH - Dyslexia self-advocate, Senior Mediator specialist in Employment and Discrimination (full interview: https://differentbrains.org/where-neurodiversity-meets-racial-diversity-with-pierre-marsh-edb-130/ ) To find out more about Pierre's work, visit: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pierre-marsh-10118b19/   JACKI EDRY - Complex brain surgery survivor/self-advocate, author (full interview:https://differentbrains.org/neurodiversity-in-israel-with-jacki-edry-edb-256/ ) To find out more about Jackie's work, visit: https://www.jackisbooks.com/   BEA MOISE - ADHD self-advocate, autism mom, cognitive specialist, and parenting coach (full interview: https://differentbrains.org/navigating-a-neurodiverse-household-with-bea-moise-ms-bccs-edb-282/ ) To find out more about Bea's work, visit: https://beatricemoise.com/   JUDE MORROW - Autism self-advocate, author, and speaker (full interview: https://differentbrains.org/loving-your-place-on-the-spectrum-with-jude-morrow-edb-258/ ) To find out more about Jude's work, visit: https://judemorrow.com/   JR REED - Autism self-advocate, speaker, ASD Consultant, Certified Cognitive Behavioral Therapist, and writer (full interview: https://differentbrains.org/not-weird-just-autistic-with-j-r-reed-edb-242/ ) To find out more about JR's work, visit: http://notweirdjustautistic.com/ Follow Different Brains on social media: https://twitter.com/diffbrains https://www.facebook.com/different.brains/ https://www.instagram.com/diffbrains/ Check out more episodes of Exploring Different Brains! http://differentbrains.org/category/edb/

ADHD Coach & self-advocate Brooke Schnittman MA, PCC, BCC shares tips for neurodivergent students and their parents as a new school year begins. Brooke Schnittman MA, PCC, BCC is an esteemed expert in the field of ADHD management and support, renowned for her unwavering dedication to empowering individuals with ADHD to overcome challenges and achieve their full potential. ​Brooke's personal journey, being diagnosed with ADHD later in life and marrying into a family of ADHDers, has provided her with profound insight and empathy for her clients. In 2002, she embarked on her mission to make a positive impact in the lives of individuals with disabilities. She earned her Bachelor's in Elementary Education from Penn State University and her Master's Degree from New York University, specializing in Students With Disabilities. With over two decades of experience, Brooke has worked closely with thousands of individuals with ADHD, utilizing her comprehensive knowledge and expertise to guide them toward success. In 2018, she founded Coaching With Brooke, a groundbreaking organization that has rapidly become a leading global authority in the field of ADHD coaching. Beyond her coaching practice, Brooke actively contributes to the ADHD community through various initiatives. She is the mastermind behind ADHDEdCamp, a platform that fosters education and collaboration within the ADHD community. Additionally, Brooke co-hosts the popular ADHD PowerTools podcast and hosts the SuccessFULL with ADHD Podcast, where she shares valuable insights and strategies to help individuals overcome obstacles and achieve success. For more about Brooke: https://www.coachingwithbrooke.com/ Check out ADHD Power Tools, co-hosted by Brooke: http://differentbrains.org/category/adhd-power-tools/ Follow Different Brains on social media: https://twitter.com/diffbrains https://www.facebook.com/different.brains/ https://www.instagram.com/diffbrains/ Check out more episodes of Exploring Different Brains! http://differentbrains.org/category/edb/

Celebrated disability advocate and author, FSU's Dr. JR Harding, discusses his world travels, and why he thinks everyone needs an adventure. Dr. Harding is a recognized disability leader with over 37 years of personal and professional experiences within the disability community. He is a two-time US Presidential appointee, seven-time Florida gubernatorial appointee, and has made significant contributions to national, state and community public policy advancing the independence and self-sufficiency of persons with disabilities. He is the author of 2 five-star books (Now What? and ADA Adventure). He is the 1st person with a significant disability to graduate from both Leadership Florida and Leadership Tallahassee. His commitment to community service is a constant and is currently serving on Evergreen Life Services (ELS), the Florida Alliance for Assistive Services and Technology (FAAST), The Florida Network on Disabilities (FND), Blueprint 2000 Citizen Advisory Committee (CAC), and the Delta Airlines Disability Advisory Board. He works full-time for Florida State University (FSU) as a faculty member for the College of Business within the Management Department. He and his lovely wife Erika live and work in Tallahassee, Florida. For more about JR: https://jrharding.com/ Or to contact him through FSU: https://business.fsu.edu/person/jr-harding Follow Different Brains on social media: https://twitter.com/diffbrains https://www.facebook.com/different.brains/ https://www.instagram.com/diffbrains/ Check out more episodes of Exploring Different Brains! http://differentbrains.org/category/edb/

Celebrated disability advocate and author, FSU's Dr. JR Harding, discusses his work helping the next generation of business leaders embrace inclusion. Dr. Harding is a recognized disability leader with over 37 years of personal and professional experiences within the disability community. He is a two-time US Presidential appointee, seven-time Florida gubernatorial appointee, and has made significant contributions to national, state and community public policy advancing the independence and self-sufficiency of persons with disabilities. He is the author of 2 five-star books (Now What? and ADA Adventure). He is the 1st person with a significant disability to graduate from both Leadership Florida and Leadership Tallahassee. His commitment to community service is a constant and is currently serving on Evergreen Life Services (ELS), the Florida Alliance for Assistive Services and Technology (FAAST), The Florida Network on Disabilities (FND), Blueprint 2000 Citizen Advisory Committee (CAC), and the Delta Airlines Disability Advisory Board. He works full-time for Florida State University (FSU) as a faculty member for the College of Business within the Management Department. He and his lovely wife Erika live and work in Tallahassee, Florida. For more about JR: https://jrharding.com/ Or to contact him through FSU: https://business.fsu.edu/person/jr-harding Follow Different Brains on social media: https://twitter.com/diffbrains https://www.facebook.com/different.brains/ https://www.instagram.com/diffbrains/ Check out more episodes of Exploring Different Brains! http://differentbrains.org/category/edb/

Zavikon COO Hilary Kokenda discusses their work creating and facilitating career opportunities for neurodivergent individuals. Hilary Kokenda is the Chief Operating Officer (COO) of Zavikon. Zavikon's mission is “…to match qualified candidates with disabilities or those who are neurodivergent with employers who believe inclusion is the future. Zavikon is the bridge to inclusion.” Prior to becoming a founding member of Zavikon, Hilary spent 10 years at The Walt Disney Company as a technologist supporting business solutions and processes. Hilary's primary role throughout her career has been to bridge the communication gap between technology resources and the businesses they support at Fortune 500 companies. Hilary's career has required her to work with individuals at all levels and drive change across all types of departments. Through her wealth of experience in the corporate environment, she has recognized the need for and benefits of diversity, and she is passionate about being a bridge to an inclusive working world. Hilary holds a Bachelor's of Science degree in Mathematics/Applied Science from UCLA. Visit Zavikon at: https://www.zavikon.net/ Employment inquiries can be sent to: info@Zavikon.net Follow Different Brains on social media: https://twitter.com/diffbrains https://www.facebook.com/different.brains/ https://www.instagram.com/diffbrains/ Check out more episodes of Exploring Different Brains! http://differentbrains.org/category/edb/

Psychology student Shanna Anssari, M.S. shares how she navigated mental health challenges while pursuing her education. Shanna Anssari, M.S. received her Bachelors of Science in Psychology at Loyola University Chicago, and her Masters of Science, Medical Clinical Sciences/Graduate Medical Studies at Boston University School of Medicine. She will soon be attending Nova Southeastern University in pursuit of becoming a Psy-D. Follow Different Brains on social media: https://twitter.com/diffbrains https://www.facebook.com/different.brains/ https://www.instagram.com/diffbrains/ Check out more episodes of Exploring Different Brains! http://differentbrains.org/category/edb/

Author & self-advocate Jose Del Cueto shares his journey from a traumatic childhood with undiagnosed ADHD, dyslexia, and dysgraphia to a long and successful career in marketing. Jose Del Cueto leads an ongoing mentoring internship program for university and community college students in Central Florida. He is actively involved in child welfare, serving on the board of community-based organizations that are dedicated to serving the adopted and foster children population of Central Florida. With over 30 years of experience in National and International marketing, Joe is considered one of the pioneers of Latin American Pan-Regional Television, having worked with both Univision and Telemundo, overseeing their National and International footprints. Joe's business, DMG Solutions, works with small and medium-sized businesses, providing access to Big Data and technology for their marketing acquisition and customer-retention programs. For more about Jose: https://www.josedelcueto.com/ Follow Different Brains on social media: https://twitter.com/diffbrains https://www.facebook.com/different.brains/ https://www.instagram.com/diffbrains/ Check out more episodes of Exploring Different Brains! http://differentbrains.org/category/edb/

Author & psychiatrist Dr. Mark Goulston shares his journey to being a mental health professional. Originally a UCLA professor of psychiatry for over 25 years, and a former FBI and police hostage negotiation trainer, Dr. Mark Goulston's expertise has been forged and proven in the crucible of real-life, high stakes situations. An influencer who helps influencers become more influential, his unique background has made him an indispensable and sought after resource and change facilitator to Fortune 500 leaders, entrepreneurs and educators across the nation. He is also host of the podcast My Wakeup Call. and is a producer on the documentary What I Wish My Parents Knew. For more about Dr. Goulston: http://markgoulston.com/ For more about What I Wish My Parents Knew: https://tellmystory.org/ Follow Different Brains on social media: https://twitter.com/diffbrains https://www.facebook.com/different.brains/ https://www.instagram.com/diffbrains/ Check out more episodes of Exploring Different Brains! http://differentbrains.org/category/edb/

Author & psychiatrist Dr. Mark Goulston shares advice for parents with teens having a mental health crisis. Originally a UCLA professor of psychiatry for over 25 years, and a former FBI and police hostage negotiation trainer, Dr. Mark Goulston's expertise has been forged and proven in the crucible of real-life, high stakes situations. An influencer who helps influencers become more influential, his unique background has made him an indispensable and sought after resource and change facilitator to Fortune 500 leaders, entrepreneurs and educators across the nation. He is also host of the podcast My Wakeup Call. and is a producer on the documentary What I Wish My Parents Knew. For more about Dr. Goulston: http://markgoulston.com/ For more about What I Wish My Parents Knew: https://tellmystory.org/ Follow Different Brains on social media: https://twitter.com/diffbrains https://www.facebook.com/different.brains/ https://www.instagram.com/diffbrains/ Check out more episodes of Exploring Different Brains! http://differentbrains.org/category/edb/

IEC founder Dr. Mai Pham discusses their work transforming healthcare for people with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities Hoangmai (Mai) H. Pham, MD MPH, President and CEO of Institute for Exceptional Care (IEC), is a general internist and national health policy leader and mother to two beautiful young men, one of whom is autistic. Dr. Pham was previously Vice President, Provider Alignment Solutions at Anthem, Inc., responsible for value-based care initiatives at the country's second largest health insurance company. Prior to Anthem, she served as Chief Innovation Officer at the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Innovation, where she was a founding official, and the architect of Medicare's foundational programs on accountable care organizations and primary care. She has published extensively in the medical literature on provider payment policy and its intersection with health disparities, care coordination, quality performance, provider behavior, and market trends. Dr. Pham serves on the boards of Atlantic Health Systems and the Coalition to Transform Advanced Care, and the National Advisory Council for the Agency on Healthcare Research and Quality. She also serves on Faculty at the Institute for Healthcare Improvement. Dr. Pham earned her A.B. from Harvard University, her M.D. from Temple University, and her M.P.H. from Johns Hopkins University where she was also a Robert Wood Johnson Clinical Scholar. For information about Institute for Exceptional Care, visit: https://www.ie-care.org/ Follow Different Brains on social media: https://twitter.com/diffbrains https://www.facebook.com/different.brains/ https://www.instagram.com/diffbrains/ Check out more episodes of Exploring Different Brains! http://differentbrains.org/category/edb/

UM-NSU CARD's Dr. Michael Alessandri shares the importance of organization partnerships in supporting the autistic community. Dr. Michael Alessandri is the Executive Director of the University of Miami-Nova Southeastern University Center for Autism and Related Disabilities (UM-NSU CARD). He is also the Chairman of the Board at Els for Autism, and Board officer for Casa Familia, a housing project in Dade County. Dr. Alessandri has been a professor at UM since 1996 and has worked with individuals with autism and their families since 1981 in various capacities. He is a Phi Beta Kappa graduate of the University of Rochester, and obtained his MS and Ph.D. in Psychology from Rutgers University. At the University of Miami, Dr. Alessandri, in addition to his other roles, also serves as the Department of Psychology's Assistant Chairman for Community Outreach and Engagement. Dr. Alessandri has presented, consulted and published internationally on developing appropriate and effective educational programs for students with autism. In addition, he has received numerous research and service grants and several notable awards within the field including the Autism Society of America's Wendy F. Miller Autism Professional of the Year Award and National Autism Program of the Year for UM-NSU CARD. Dr. Alessandri has also received numerous other community service awards, including the March of Dimes Community Excellence in Health Care Award (2007), the Health Services Coalition Outstanding Community Leader Award (2009), and the Parent to Parent Excellence in Family Advocacy Award (2010). He was also named one of the Ronald McDonald House's 12 Good Men (2008) and the Dewar's 12 Man of Distinction (2007). In 2012, he was selected by the Children's Trust as the David Lawrence Champion for Children, one of South Florida's highest honors for community service. In 2016, the Greater Miami Chamber of Commerce named him their Visionary Leader of the Year; and in 2017, he was recognized by the Dade County Bar Association with the Fostering Inclusion and Diversity Award. Recognizing his outstanding career achievements, his alma mater, The University of Rochester School of Arts and Sciences, named him the Distinguished Alumnus of 2022. For information about UM-NSU CARD, visit: https://www.card.miami.edu/ For information about Dr. Alessandri, visit: https://people.miami.edu/profile/fb8af2465e6219dc0d6be35a692a7472 For more about Casa Familia: https://casafamiliainc.org/ For more about Els for Autism: https://www.elsforautism.org/ Follow Different Brains on social media: https://twitter.com/diffbrains https://www.facebook.com/different.brains/ https://www.instagram.com/diffbrains/ Check out more episodes of Exploring Different Brains! http://differentbrains.org/category/edb/

UM-NSU CARD's Dr. Michael Alessandri discusses how the COVID19 pandemic forced autism providers to rethink how they deliver services. Dr. Michael Alessandri is the Executive Director of the University of Miami-Nova Southeastern University Center for Autism and Related Disabilities (UM-NSU CARD). He is also the Chairman of the Board at Els for Autism, and Board officer for Casa Familia, a housing project in Dade County. Dr. Alessandri has been a professor at UM since 1996 and has worked with individuals with autism and their families since 1981 in various capacities. He is a Phi Beta Kappa graduate of the University of Rochester, and obtained his MS and Ph.D. in Psychology from Rutgers University. At the University of Miami, Dr. Alessandri, in addition to his other roles, also serves as the Department of Psychology's Assistant Chairman for Community Outreach and Engagement. Dr. Alessandri has presented, consulted and published internationally on developing appropriate and effective educational programs for students with autism. In addition, he has received numerous research and service grants and several notable awards within the field including the Autism Society of America's Wendy F. Miller Autism Professional of the Year Award and National Autism Program of the Year for UM-NSU CARD. Dr. Alessandri has also received numerous other community service awards, including the March of Dimes Community Excellence in Health Care Award (2007), the Health Services Coalition Outstanding Community Leader Award (2009), and the Parent to Parent Excellence in Family Advocacy Award (2010). He was also named one of the Ronald McDonald House's 12 Good Men (2008) and the Dewar's 12 Man of Distinction (2007). In 2012, he was selected by the Children's Trust as the David Lawrence Champion for Children, one of South Florida's highest honors for community service. In 2016, the Greater Miami Chamber of Commerce named him their Visionary Leader of the Year; and in 2017, he was recognized by the Dade County Bar Association with the Fostering Inclusion and Diversity Award. Recognizing his outstanding career achievements, his alma mater, The University of Rochester School of Arts and Sciences, named him the Distinguished Alumnus of 2022. For information about UM-NSU CARD, visit: https://www.card.miami.edu/ For information about Dr. Alessandri, visit: https://people.miami.edu/profile/fb8af2465e6219dc0d6be35a692a7472 Follow Different Brains on social media: https://twitter.com/diffbrains https://www.facebook.com/different.brains/ https://www.instagram.com/diffbrains/ Check out more episodes of Exploring Different Brains! http://differentbrains.org/category/edb/

Go Baby Go founder and Univ of Delaware professor Dr. Cole Galloway discusses his work helping children with mobility challenges. Dr. James Cole Galloway is a Professor of Physical Therapy at the University of Delaware. He is also the Founder of the Go Baby Go program, which helps children and adults with physical and developmental disabilities move and explore the world. Go Baby Go's most popular project – ride-on cars – provides parents, clinicians, students and community volunteers with know-how to adapt ordinary toy cars into therapeutic vehicles for children with physical limitations. Cole also launched the Go Baby Go Cafe, a functioning business where traumatic brain injury survivors work and physical, cognitive, social and speech impairments are simultaneously addressed. To contact Cole: jacgallo@udel.edu For information about several existing Go Baby go programs: https://sites.udel.edu/gobabygo/contact/ Follow Different Brains on social media: https://twitter.com/diffbrains https://www.facebook.com/different.brains/ https://www.instagram.com/diffbrains/ Check out more episodes of Exploring Different Brains! http://differentbrains.org/category/edb/