In this episode of Embracing Intensity, host Aurora Remember sits down with Caroline J. Sumlin, author of We'll All Be Free: How a Culture of White Supremacy Devalues Us and How We Can Reclaim Our True Worth. Together, they explore the intersection of intensity, self-worth, and collective liberation.

Caroline shares her journey from feeling like she was "too much" to reclaiming her intensity as a gift. They dive into how societal systems—especially those rooted in white supremacy—fuel perfectionism, hustle culture, and the feeling of never being good enough. This conversation is both deeply personal and action-oriented, offering tools for doing the inner work to break free from these toxic systems and reclaim your inherent worth.

Caroline J. Sumlin is a writer, speaker, and educator whose work focuses on dismantling the toxic cultural messages rooted in white supremacy that tell us we are never enough. She empowers individuals—especially Black women and other marginalized communities—to reclaim their self-worth and reimagine a liberated, fulfilling life.

Her book, We'll All Be Free, blends personal narrative, social commentary, and actionable guidance to help readers break free from perfectionism, self-doubt, and societal pressure.

• The Never-Enough Culture – How systems of white supremacy drive perfectionism and keep us striving to prove our worth.

• Intensity as a Gift – Caroline's journey from being labeled "intense" to recognizing her passion as a source of power.

• Masking and Cultural Expectations – The pressure on Black women to tone down their true selves and "fit in."

• Self-Discovery as Liberation – Why examining how systems shape our beliefs is essential to personal and collective freedom.

• Finding Outlets for Intensity – How Caroline channels her energy through writing, tennis, acting, and music.

• The Power of Rest and Reclaiming Time – How rest can be a radical act of resistance in a culture that values productivity over well-being.

• Navigating ADHD and Giftedness – Caroline's exploration into her own possible neurodivergence and her daughter's twice-exceptionality journey.

• Ripple Effect Change – Why small, intentional actions can lead to lasting, collective transformation.

• Your worth is not tied to your productivity.

• Systems of oppression benefit from keeping us feeling "not enough."

• Intensity is a strength when you learn to embrace and channel it.

• Rest is a radical act of resistance against hustle culture.

• Small, personal shifts can ripple outward to create collective change.

• Caroline's Website 

• Follow Caroline on Instagram & Threads: @carolinejsumlin

• Book: We'll All Be Free – Support independent bookstores via Bookshop.org

• Embracing Intensity Community 

•  Embracing Intensity Mastermind (Coupon Code: EARLYBIRD25)

• Twice-Exceptionality Stories Playlist (YouTube)

In this episode of Embracing Intensity, I'm thrilled to welcome Sheldon Gay, host of the I Must Be Buggin' podcast. Sheldon brings his insightful perspective on navigating life as a late-identified gifted and neurodivergent individual. His podcast and work are dedicated to amplifying underrepresented voices and empowering others to embrace their unique identities.

We explore the challenges and beauty of being true to oneself in a world that often misunderstands intensity, neurodivergence, and giftedness. Sheldon's passion for self-discovery, emotional depth, and compassionate communication shines through in this powerful conversation.

About Sheldon:

Sheldon Gay is the host of the I Must Be Buggin' podcast, where he delves into topics of identity, giftedness, and neurodivergence through the lens of being Black, underrepresented, and gifted. His mission is to create a space for self-awareness, acceptance, and growth, while helping others see and embrace their unique strengths.

Sheldon's background as a late-identified gifted and neurodivergent individual has fueled his passion for helping others on their journey of self-discovery. He brings a thoughtful, empathetic approach to conversations on identity, culture, and the power of authenticity.

In This Episode:

• Navigating Identity as a Late-Identified Neurodivergent Individual – Sheldon shares his journey of discovering his giftedness and neurodivergence later in life.

• Ask vs. Guess Culture – A deep dive into communication styles, cultural nuances, and how self-awareness can help bridge differences.

• The Power of Self-Discovery – Reflections on how shadow work and embracing authenticity can lead to freedom from shame and guilt.

• Intensity and Emotional Depth – Exploring how Sheldon's intellectual curiosity and emotional intensity shape his interactions and relationships.

• Cultural Expectations and Exceptionalism – Discussing the pressures faced by marginalized communities and how giftedness intersects with cultural identity.

• Truth with Compassion – The importance of sharing truth in ways that create connection and understanding rather than division.

Resources & Links:

• Sheldon's Website: Sheldon Gay is Buggin

• Listen to the I Must Be Buggin' podcast

• Learn more about Sheldon's speaking engagements

• Explore his neuroaffirming and anti-racist merchandise

• Join the Embracing Intensity Community 

• Connect with Aurora: Embracing Intensity

Sheldon's thoughtful reflections and passion for empowering others provide invaluable insights for anyone navigating their own journey of self-discovery and authenticity. Tune in for an engaging and inspiring conversation!

Listen now and share your thoughts with us! 🎧✨

Join us in a profound exploration of fun, creativity, and self-care in our latest Embracing Intensity Podcast episode with special guest Boontarika Sripom. Dive deep into the significance of play in nurturing personal growth and bringing joy into our lives, especially for the intensely creative and gifted. Boontarika, a life coach with a passion for play and a background in clinical psychology and human development, shares her insights on how engaging in playful activities can foster innovation, relieve stress, and support our overall well-being. Discover the psychological foundations of play, its role in human development, and how to incorporate more playful moments into your daily routine. Whether you're seeking ways to rejuvenate your creative spirit or find balance in your intense life, this conversation is a reminder of play's transformative power.

For the creative, differently wired, and divergent thinker, play can be as natural as breathing. For some of us, there are layers of shame or uncertainty that inhibit playing across the lifespan. We may be separated from an essential part of maintaining authenticity. This conversation will explore the power of play, sprinkle archetypal journeys within play and fandoms, and encourage listeners to honor their inner children by playing. To those who continue playing: My inner child honors yours. I just waved at you across the playground. :)

About Boontarika:

Boontarika Sripom, MA is a therapy-informed life coach. Her work focuses on coaching using archetypes and understanding the cognition of the differently wired, specifically highly sensitive, creative, and gamer folks. She believes knowledge, guidance, and compassion leads to insights, individual acceptance, and empowerment to change. Boonie is a former preschool teacher, paraprofessional in special education, Outreach Counselor Intern, and College Counselor for creative students. She earned her Master's in Clinical Psychology from the Chicago School of Professional Psychology. Her favorite games are Age of Empires, World of Warcraft, and Minecraft. She is currently playing Fortnite, Roblox, and The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild.

In this episode:

• Rejuvenating rest and exploring creativity as self-care with Sharon Burton's upcoming book release.

• The significance of play, especially for intense, gifted, creative individuals.

• Boontarika introduces her talk on play's importance, touching on her background in clinical psychology and love for video games.

• Discussion on the psychological aspects of play, highlighting its components like being purposeless, voluntary, and having inherent attraction.

• Mentions of Stuart Brown and the National Institute of Play, and their work on defining the components of play.

• Boontarika shares personal anecdotes and illustrations to explain concepts of play.

• Exploration of play's therapeutic and developmental benefits, including combating depression and fostering a sense of community.

• Reference to Jane McGonigal's works on how games can improve our lives and the role of gamification.

• Emphasis on the therapeutic aspects for neurodivergent individuals and how play serves as a safe space.

• Reflection on societal pressures, adulthood's responsibilities, and the overall decline in play.

• Discussion turns to practical ways to reintegrate play into life and its broader benefits.

• Concluding thoughts on the cultural and personal importance of play, inviting the audience to explore their own playful nature.

• Integrating play into educational settings and acknowledging the varying definitions of play.

Boontarika's Website

Embracing Intensity Memberships

Join our Community & Check out our calendar of upcoming events!

In this engaging conversation, Aurora sits down with the multi-talented Princess Fortier, a beacon of inspiration in the journey of embracing one's intensity. Princess shares her remarkable story, from neuroscientist to singer and model, highlighting how music became her tool for healing and transforming her life. Together, they delve into the themes of harnessing personal intensity, pursuing passions beyond conventional boundaries, and the power of gratitude journaling. Princess's insight provides a riveting exploration of living life unbounded and the beauty of connecting deeply with one's passions. Join us as we uncover the synergy between harmony and intensity, and discover how embracing your full self can lead to a fulfilling and impactful life.

Discover how Princess overcame intense migraines through her passion for singing, marking a pivotal shift in her life that not only cured her physically but also steered her towards a fulfilling career in music. Throughout the episode, Princess shares her multifaceted experiences, from her challenges with perfectionism and navigating cultural expressions to engaging deeply with neurodiversity and entrepreneurship. Aurora and Princess delve into the significance of embracing one's intensity, using personal fire for positive impact, and the liberation found in gratitude and self-expression. This episode is a testament to the strength found in vulnerability, the beauty of pursuing one's passions, and the value of community support. Tune in to be inspired, find connection, and discover how to channel your own intensity into a force for good.

This episode not only celebrates Princess's remarkable contributions to the field of music and arts but also sheds light on how embracing one's intensity can lead to groundbreaking discoveries and personal healing. Listen in as Princess shares her thoughts on perseverance, the significance of music in her life, her battle against perfectionism, and her spirited advocacy for journaling and gratitude as tools for navigating life's challenges.

• Princess is an inspiring figure who transitioned from a neuroscientist to a singer/model and has been featured in shows like Abbott Elementary and All American.

• Princess shares her unique story of how singing cured her chronic migraines, leading her to pursue a full-time music career.

• The power of journaling, especially gratitude journaling, as a tool for self-reflection and goal setting.

• Princess discusses the challenges and benefits of embracing one's intensity, including her resistance to being limited by societal expectations and finding freedom in diversity.

• The dialogue touches on topics like neurodivergence, perfectionism, the importance of setting boundaries, and the impact of cultural and familial pressures.

• Aurora and Princess share experiences of dealing with rejection sensitivity and the internal struggle of wanting to be liked and approved.

• They explore the concept of using one's 'fire' for good, including sharing knowledge, setting examples for others, and creating transformative art.

• Princess discusses how engaging in multiple passions, such as music and entrepreneurship, has allowed her to express her intensity in various domains.

• Aurora emphasizes the importance of self-care and taking breaks to prevent burnout, acknowledging her own past of working on urgency.

• The conversation also covers strategies for harnessing one's intensity and sensitivity, with Princess highlighting the power of gratitude practices.

• Princess encourages the audience to let go of perfectionism and embrace their passions.

• Both speakers reflect on personal growth, the importance of authentic self-expression, and supporting others in their journey to embrace their intensity.

• Princess shares ways to connect with her and learn more about her journey and work, including her website and upcoming appearances.

Princess on Instagram

Princess' Website

Join our Community & Check out our calendar of upcoming events!

Embracing Intensity Memberships

In this thought-provoking podcast episode, Jeff and Aurora delve deep into the topic of dismantling patriarchy through play. They explore the impact of societal norms on individuals, the role of neurodivergence in challenging the status quo, and the importance of celebrating uniqueness. Through personal anecdotes and insightful discussions, they highlight the power of embracing one's intensity and fostering connections through play. Stay tuned to gain valuable insights on creating a more inclusive and empathetic world through intentional actions and meaningful engagement.

The podcast discussion delves into the intersection of play, patriarchy, neurodiversity, and societal norms. Jeff and Aurora explore the impact of patriarchy on both men and women, emphasizing the importance of men becoming allies to women and the need to challenge traditional gender roles. They highlight the power of play in fostering connection, breaking free from societal expectations, and celebrating neurodiversity. The conversation encourages embracing uniqueness, challenging the status quo, and fostering a sense of community and connection through play.

About Jeff

Jeff Harry, the founder of Rediscover Your Play, runs an organization dedicated to making work more enjoyable through play and positive psychology. With a strong belief that play can heal workplaces and communities, Jeff emphasizes the importance of embracing intensity and connecting with others authentically. He advocates for celebrating neurodivergence and challenging societal norms to create a more inclusive and empathetic world. Jeff's work focuses on dismantling patriarchy by encouraging allies to women and fostering deeper connections through play.

In this episode:

• Jeff emphasizes the importance of play in healing workplaces and communities.

• Play is discussed as a tool for challenging the status quo and encouraging connection.

• Aurora and Jeff share stories about the power of play to bring people together.

• Celebrating neurodivergency and uniqueness is highlighted as a way to dismantle patriarchy.

• Remote companionship is discussed as both beneficial and limited in replacing in-person connections.

• The impact of societal norms on neurodivergent individuals and the need for acceptance and celebration.

• Historical examples like the 54th during the Civil War are used to showcase the ripple effects of small actions.

• The concept of the "cathedral effect" is introduced, encouraging individuals to make a difference even if they may not see the immediate results.

• The Embracing Intensity community is promoted as a supportive space for intense and gifted individuals to connect and grow.

Resources:

Rediscover Your Play

Embracing Intensity Community

Embracing Intensity Memberships

This week on Embracing Intensity, we share an enlightening conversation with award-winning author and licensed educational psychologist, Christine Fonseca. In this episode of our podcast, our host, Aurora, delves into an enriching conversation with Fonseca, exploring her insights on emotional intensity, mental health, giftedness, and our inherent human complexities. 

Fonseca, a gifted adult herself, opens up about her experiences, passions, and various interests that set her apart. The discussion probes the depths of dealing with intense emotions, overcoming personal challenges, and handling burnout. The highlight of the conversation is Fonseca's perspective on the full spectrum of human emotions and the importance of dissecting, understanding, and accepting them as part of our unique individual journeys. She also talks about the necessity of open cross-disciplinary communication within the fields of mental health and related sciences to facilitate a more comprehensive understanding of the human condition. 

Join us for these compelling insights and much more in our podcast of a treasured conversation with Christine Fonseca!

In this Episode:

• Unpacking Christine Fonseca's journey from being an educational psychologist to an international speaker, author, and gifted adult
• Discussion on the influence and inspiration behind the podcast
• Unveiling Christine's multi-faceted interests including owning a lifestyle shop and being a fiber artist
• Emphasizing the importance of not fitting in a box and cherishing one's unique identity
• Navigating the nuances of social interactions and their impact on mental health
• Exploring the connection between emotional intensity and the nervous system dysregulation 
• Introduction to the ROAR protocol, a technique to understand and mitigate anxiety
• Christine's personal journey through overcoming burnout and the strategies she employed
• Deep dive into the conversation of societal pressures, the pursuit of constant happiness and its paradoxical impact on mental health
• The untapped power of holistic communication across different disciplinary silos in the healthcare and mental health sector
• Embracing the beauty and complexity of being intensely human and the power of acceptance.

Resources:

Embracing Intensity Community

Embracing Intensity Memberships

Transcript Available

In this episode of the Embracing Intensity Podcast, we bring you an inspiring conversation with Cosette "Coco" Leary. Coco's gripping story takes us on a journey from her days as a welfare recipient to eventually becoming a celebrated motivational speaker and entrepreneur. Her story is laced with determination, resilience, and overcoming adversity to redefine herself on her own terms. Join us as we delve into Coco's remarkable life journey.

Coco candidly shares her life from being a welfare recipient to ascending to the realms of high-profile activism and motivational speaking. We learn about her early struggles with poverty, systemic barriers, and personal hurdles that conditioned her resilience and determination to achieve her dreams. Coco speaks passionately about her staunch belief in the power of perseverance, community, education, and self-belief. She beautifully illustrates how she transformed a life limited by societal expectations into a path teeming with promise and endless potential.

Coco's inspiring story delivers a powerful message about fighting for one's dreams despite being in the face of adversity. This episode is a testament to the power of resilience, the quest for education, and the determination to change the narrative regardless of one's background. Tune in for a dose of intense inspiration!

In this episode:

• Coco shares the pivotal role desperation played in building her resilience.

• Her brave initiative to pen a letter to a CEO that opened new avenues in her life.

• The importance of having a support system and the role sisterhood played in Coco's life.

• How her children's unmet needs in public schools led her to homeschooling, and the benefits thereof.

• The impactful experience of her stint in Capitol Hill in D.C which led her to establish her empire.

• Coco's vision for transforming societal norms through increased social connection and community support.

Resources:

CoCo's Website

Guest Call Library

Embracing Intensity Membership

Embracing Intensity Community

In this episode of the Embracing Intensity Podcast, host Aurora interviews Kaitlin Smith, a scholar, facilitator, and founder of Our Wild Minds. Kaitlin shares her journey as a gifted BIPOC individual, her work in supporting gifted adults, and her research on the history of mind sciences. Join Aurora and Kaitlin as they explore the intersections between intensity, cultural dynamics, and personal growth.

In this interview, Aurora and Kaitlin delve into Kaitlin's experiences as a gifted BIPOC individual, the challenges she faced growing up, and the cultural factors that affected her self-expression. They discuss how Kaitlin uses her intensity to make a positive impact and navigate the complex dynamics of the workplace. Kaitlin also shares her insights on harnessing the power of intensity and helping others do the same through her community platform, Our Wild Minds.

Join Aurora and Kaitlin as they delve into the complexities of intensity and its transformative potential in this thought-provoking episode of the Embracing Intensity Podcast.

• Kaitlin's journey as a scholar, facilitator, and founder of Our Wild Minds.

• The intersections between the history of mind sciences and African American studies in Kaitlin's research.

• The challenges Kaitlin faced growing up in a predominantly white suburb and the conflicting expectations placed upon her as a gifted Black individual.

• The impact of cultural dynamics on expression and the pressure to conform to societal expectations.

• How Kaitlin uses her fire for good through various roles, including her work as a PhD student, teaching fellow, and community builder.

• The importance of clarity, deprogramming, and prioritizing values in harnessing the power of intensity.

• Kaitlin's insights on creating space for connection, introspection, learning, manifestation, and giving back through Our Wild Minds.

• The empowering message that it's never too late to embrace authenticity and live a life aligned with your true self.

Kaitlin's Website

ND Planner Club

Join our Community & Check out our calendar of upcoming events!

In this age of rapid and overwhelming information, how does one choose what is important to learn? Opportunities to play are opportunities to learn. Play allows us to imagine ourselves in different realities, in different worlds where the rules are different, where we can be different. In these alternate worlds, we can demand more for ourselves. In these worlds, we can identify our needs and build rules and systems to meet our deepest needs. Just as someone imagined the world you see around you right now; the one in which neurodivergent needs go largely unmet - through play, we can imagine a world in which neurodivergent needs are met.

In this episode of the Embracing Intensity Podcast, host Aurora and Dr. Kimberly Douglas discuss the power of play in decolonizing neurodivergence. Dr. Douglas shares her insights on the relationship between play, imagination, and decolonization, and how they intersect in the context of gaming and world building.

They discuss the power of immersion, imagination, and safety in fostering a state of play, and how play can be a catalyst for expanding thinking and problem-solving. They explore the connection between play and power dynamics in society, particularly within the context of colonization. Dr. Douglas also shares her perspective on the need to decolonize neurodivergence and challenge oppressive systems that limit the expression of neurodivergent identities. The conversation concludes with a reflection on the possibilities and challenges of embracing play and creativity as tools for personal and societal transformation.

Stay tuned for this insightful conversation on play, decolonization, and embracing neurodivergent identities. Make sure to check out Dr. Kimberly Douglas' work and follow her on social media for more valuable insights.

Dr Kimberly Douglass is coach/consultant to Neurodivergent Adults.

Dr Douglass is currently constructing the first design studio of its kind, run by AuDHDers, for AuDHDers.

Dr Douglass became a full-time coach after working as staff, peer-reviewed researcher, faculty and administrator in higher education for over 17 years. She began the neurodivergence advocacy work over 13 years ago when she became the chief advocate for her Son who is neurodivergent. She has since gotten more in touch with her own neurodivergence. Dr Douglass is married to Dean Tate and lives in Tennessee.

In this episode:

• Dr. Douglas shares her background and expertise in working with neurodivergent individuals.

• The importance of safety and immersion in fostering a state of play.

• Play encourages imagination, ideation, and thinking outside the box

• The relationship between play and imagination, and the role of play in expanding thinking and problem-solving.

• How neurodivergence challenges societal expectations and the worker role

• The connection between play and power dynamics in society, and the need to decolonize neurodivergence.

• Why decolonizing neurodivergence requires understanding larger systems of oppression

• The possibilities and challenges of embracing play and creativity as tools for personal and societal transformation.

• Permission to play and decolonize can bring up grief but also opens up possibilities

Resources:

Dr. Kimberly Douglass on TikTok

Learn more about Dr. Kimberly Douglass

I Must be Bug'n Podcast w/ Sheldon Gay

Embracing Intensity All Access Membership

Guest Call Library

Embracing Intensity Community

Are you a gifted or neurodivergent perfectionist struggling to overcome the damaging effects of perfectionism? 

In this episode of the Embracing Intensity podcast, host Aurora Remember Holtzman invites special guest Aileen Kelleher, a therapist and life coach, to delve into the topic of overcoming perfectionism. Together, they explore the intersection between perfectionism and giftedness and discuss the various ways in which perfectionism can impact our lives. From high expectations and low self-esteem to time limits and parental expectations, Aurora and Aileen shed light on the challenges faced by perfectionists and provide practical strategies for managing perfectionistic tendencies and fostering self-compassion.

Join the Embracing Intensity community at embracingintensity.com to dive deeper into understanding and overcoming your own perfectionism. Gain access to courses, tools, and support from like-minded individuals who appreciate and celebrate the power of high personal standards. You can also, explore the free self-regulation workbook for gifted and neurodivergent adults, titled "Harnessing the Power of Your Intensity," which offers a practical guide for overcoming perfectionism and embracing your unique abilities. Visit the show notes or embracingintensity.com for more information and resources.

In this episode:

- The definition and negative impact of perfectionism, including its association with depression, anxiety, and low self-esteem.
- Overlaps between perfectionism and giftedness, such as high expectations, sensitivity, and self-criticism.
- The unhealthy coping mechanisms often employed by perfectionists, such as procrastination and avoidance.
- Strategies for managing perfectionism, including incremental steps, setting realistic goals, and practicing self-compassion.
- The importance of recognizing and embracing the messy nature of overcoming perfectionism and learning new skills.
- The role of self-compassion and cultivating present-moment awareness in overcoming perfectionism and achieving high performance.
- The damaging effects of perfectionism on daily life, relationships, and emotional well-being.
- Practical tips for parents and educators to support gifted children and help them navigate the pressures of perfectionism.
- The unique challenges faced by neurodivergent individuals in managing perfectionistic behaviors and finding balance in their lives.

By addressing the problem of perfectionism and providing practical strategies for overcoming it, this episode offers valuable insights and guidance for high achievers, gifted individuals, and neurodivergent adults who struggle with the damaging effects of perfectionism in their own lives. Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of perfectionism and learn how to cultivate self-compassion and embrace your unique abilities. 

Resources: 

Embracing Intensity Membership & Guest Call Library

Embracing Intensity Community

In this episode of the "Embracing Intensity" podcast, host Aurora brings on a special guest, Cate Osburn, better known on social media as Catieosaurus. As a certified sex educator with an emphasis on neurodivergency and intimacy, Cate sparks much-needed conversations, tackling topics others often shy away from. With her unique insights drawn from personal experiences and her role as a sex educator, she brings a nuanced understanding of how neurodivergency can interact with intimacy and sex.

Throughout the episode, Cate and Aurora, among other topics, delve into the intersection of neurodivergence and intimacy, discuss the impacts of societal norms on sex and relationships, and provide tangible strategies to navigate through intimacy issues. Cate advocates for self-advocacy, shedding light on the importance of open and honest communication within relationships.

In a world that rarely discusses the intersection of intimacy and neurodivergence, this conversation with Catieosaurus is a breath of fresh air providing valuable insights, strategies, and reassurance that you are not alone in your struggles. Catch up on this enlightening conversation today.

Use the link in the podcast description to join our Embracing Intensity community to access our courses and tools designed to help you use your own intensity without getting burned! Explore different podcast episodes, meet like-minded individuals, and enjoy self-paced learning to better understand and grow from your experiences.

• The relationship and challenges between neurodivergence and intimacy.

• Tips for navigating sensory issues during sexual activities, such as using tools like headphones.

• An examination of problematic gender dynamics that can play out in intimate relationships.

• Ways to manage relationship satisfaction amidst the challenges of neurodivergency.

• How to distinguish between drama and passion in relationships.

• The importance of self- advocacy, allowing for the fulfilling and authentic expression of our needs.

• The concept of "Ask culture" versus "Guess culture" and the effects on relationships and intimacy.

Catieosaurus' Website

Embracing Intensity Memberships

New Printed Planner

This week on Embracing Intensity, I share my experience with the physical and emotional exhaustion that comes with severe burnout. In this episode, I share updates on my personal life that have contributed to burnout, dive into my recovery process and discuss how to overcome burnout symptoms. I also share a preview of what I have coming up as I recover from burnout this summer!

Burnout can affect every aspect of your life, from your job to your personal relationships. It's important to recognize the signs of burnout early on and take the necessary steps to address it. Whether it's through improving your work-life balance, seeking social support, or making small changes to your daily routine, there are ways to recover and find relief from burnout.

Recent research has shown that burnout is not just a result of long hours and excessive stress, but also a combination of physical, emotional, and mental exhaustion. It can take a toll on your physical health, immune system, and even your mental well-being. That's why it's crucial to prioritize self-care and engage in activities that promote relaxation and rejuvenation.

In this podcast, we'll explore various burnout recovery techniques, such as incorporating physical activity, spending quality time with friends, and getting enough sleep. We'll also discuss the importance of spending time on things we love, seeking professional help when needed, and finding support from friends, family members, and colleagues.

Join me as we navigate the journey of burnout recovery together. I'll share my personal experiences, as well as insights from experts in the field, to help you create a burnout recovery plan that works for you. Whether you're a busy professional, a parent, or someone struggling with burnout in any area of your life, this podcast is here to provide guidance and support.

So, grab a cup of tea, find a cozy spot, and let's embark on the path to burnout recovery. Remember, you're not alone, and there is hope for a full recovery. Let's get started.

• I discuss my recent absence from content creation due to burnout and chronic headaches.

• Factors that have contributed to my burnout including work-related stress and big life changes.

• Updates on what's been happening for me this year personally. 

• Giving myself permission not to be productive has been helpful in my burnout recovery.

• Reconnecting with friends and reaching out for support has been beneficial, as many friends are also struggling after the isolation of the pandemic.

• Engaging in activities that bring joy and relaxation, such as floating in a pool, can help with relaxation and letting go of stress.

• Incorporating movement, such as going for walks, and seeking body work and acupuncture can aid in burnout recovery.

• I am working on catching up on content for the planner club and developing neurodivergent-friendly planners for travel and relationships.

• I'm open to taking requests for specific planner content to make it more neurodivergent-friendly.

• I plan to create a printed planner using the disk bound system for customization.

• Adding a new course to my membership called "Befriending Your Brain, Self Assessment Course."

• Members of my course membership will have access to upcoming calls, guest speakers, call recordings, and new content.

• I have many creative ideas and plans for the future, but I also need to honor my own burnout and recovery cycles.

• Our next monthly call about writing to heal takes place on the third Saturday of the month at 10:00 AM Pacific time.

In this episode of Embracing Intensity, we're excited to share the Q&A portion of our powerful conversation with Nneka Denise, founder of the Write to Heal Project. This discussion offers timely tools and insights as we reflect on letting go of the past year and preparing for a fresh, intentional start in the new year.

Nneka shares her transformative approach to healing through writing, addressing grief not only as it relates to loss but also to life transitions, personal growth, and emotional clarity. Whether you're navigating stress, seeking emotional release, or exploring creative outlets, this episode provides practical strategies to help you move forward.

Nneka Denise is the founder of the Write to Heal Project and a trained end-of-life and bereavement doula based in the Portland-Vancouver area. Through journaling, visualization, and somatic practices, Nneka helps individuals process grief, trauma, and life's emotional challenges. She also runs the New Wellness Center in downtown Portland, a collective of holistic healing practitioners offering vibrational sound baths, Reiki, massage, and emotional wellness support.

• The Science of Writing to Heal – How writing can help process emotions, grief, and transitions in life.
• Practical Writing Strategies – Tips for using gratitude journaling, brain dumps, and affirmations to create a daily healing practice.
• Ceremonial Release – The power of burning or shredding written emotions as a symbolic act of letting go.
• Affirmations for Healing – How to create affirmations that feel believable and achievable, guiding you toward positive change.
• Navigating Writing Challenges – Nneka's advice for those with ADHD, dyslexia, or writing apprehensions, including voice dictation and alternative methods.

• Connect with Nneka on Instagram: @nneka_denise

• Contact Nneka via email: nneka.denise@gmail.com

• Learn about the New Wellness Center in Downtown Portland (10th & Morrison)

• Explore the Embracing Intensity Community and Memberships.

• Preorder Aurora's workbook, Energy Balance (Kindle edition), available this Friday, December 20th.

Nneka's work offers invaluable tools for self-reflection, healing, and emotional growth through the simple yet profound act of writing. Whether you're a lifelong journaler or just beginning your healing journey, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you process emotions and step into the new year with intention.

Listen now and take the first step toward embracing your own healing process! 🎧✨

This week, we talk with Arianna Bradford, an ADHD productivity coach, about the best ways for adults with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder to boost productivity in their daily lives. We cover a range of topics, from common symptoms of ADHD and organizational strategies to productivity hacks and the Pomodoro technique. Arianna shares her expertise on how to set specific goals and prioritize tasks, as well as how to use the right tools and resources to get the most out of your work mode. 

We also discuss the importance of taking breaks and transitioning between tasks, as well as how to manage ADHD symptoms in the workplace or in your personal life. Whether you're a project manager, creative professional, or simply looking to be more productive, this episode has something for everyone. So grab a cup of coffee, find a quiet spot, and join us as we explore the world of ADHD productivity with Arianna Bradford.

• Arianna Bradford, an ADHD productivity coach, shares her tips for building productivity processes that work for neurodivergent brains.

• Productivity for people with ADHD is not an arbitrary number or percentage, and should be set by the individual in regards to upcoming external deadlines.

• Keeping all tasks and deadlines in one central place is important for feeling in control, and regularly reevaluating task priorities is crucial.

• The ICNU method (Interest, Challenge, Novelty, Urgency) can help hack an ADHD brain and increase productivity, as can adding challenge and urgency, trying new approaches, and allowing for downtime.

• Mind shifts and meditation can reduce stress and increase mindfulness, while tracking patterns and cycles can help with planning and prioritizing tasks.

• Redefining productivity as satisfaction, not perfection, and taking breaks for self-care are essential for preventing burnout.

• Favorite productivity tools include Amazing Marvin, Motion, The Bright App, Tusk, ClickUp, Headspace, and simplemind pro.

• Using white, brown, or pink noise, binaural beats, and low-fi beats can help with focus, and starting new routines gradually can avoid overwhelming the brain.

• Multitasking can be beneficial for ADHD brains, and it's important to remember that worth is not determined by external measures of productivity or success.

• Understanding monthly and yearly cycles, as well as circadian rhythms, can aid in productivity and introspection.

• Organizational skills, goal setting, and breaking tasks into smaller chunks of time can also be helpful.

• It's important to prioritize mental health and self-care in both personal and professional lives.

• There is no one "best way" to be productive, and different options may work for different tasks or individuals.

• ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder, and those with ADHD may experience executive dysfunction and shorter attention spans.

• Pomodoro cycles, mind maps, and analog clocks can aid in productivity, and to-do list apps and project managers can help keep track of tasks.

• The ADHD community and employee resource groups can provide support and resources for productivity and navigating the work environment.

• Taking short breaks and allowing for transition time can also improve productivity and reduce anxiety.

• Mental health professionals, family members, and team members can also be valuable resources in building productive habits.

• Social media and mobile devices can be both helpful and distracting, and it's important to set boundaries and prioritize privacy.

• TikTok users and creative people may have an uncanny ability to focus on certain tasks, but may struggle with others.

• The most important tasks should be at the top of your to-do list, and it's okay to leave some tasks for the next time or for the last minute.

• Hard work and effort are important, but so is recognizing and accepting limitations.

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In this episode, where we delve into the importance of self-care in our daily lives. Whether it's through mindfulness practices, physical exercise, or leisure time activities, taking care of our emotional and physical health is crucial for a better quality of life. From diaphragmatic breathing to bike rides, we explore different self-care practices that can help us manage daily stressors and negative emotions without relying on prescription medication. We also discuss how self-care can benefit young people, families, and individuals with mental illnesses. Join us as we share new ideas and small steps towards creating our own self-care regimens and personal commitments. From transition rituals to champions of the shengha, we explore the full range of emotions and the importance of social interaction and sense of independence in our self-care plan. So, grab your lunch break or end of the day, and tune in to learn how self-care can positively impact our physical and emotional well-being in the long term.

In this discussion, Rukshana shares insights and practical tips on how to maintain a playful and curious mindset throughout your life. Drawing on her own experiences, Rukshana shows that play is not just for kids – it's a vital tool for personal growth, creativity, and overall well-being.

Triem argues that many of us lose touch with our playful side as we grow older, getting bogged down in the demands of work, family, and daily routines. But she shows that playfulness is not just a frivolous indulgence – it's a fundamental human need that can help us stay curious, flexible, and resilient in the face of challenges.

Through engaging stories and exploration, Triem encourages her audience to rediscover their inner child and embrace a spirit of play in all areas of their lives. Whether it's trying new activities, engaging in creative pursuits, or simply finding joy in everyday moments, Triem shows that playfulness is the key to unlocking our full potential as human beings.

Never Leave the Playground is a powerful and uplifting discussion that will leave you feeling inspired, motivated, and eager to incorporate more play into your daily routine. Whether you're looking to boost your creativity, improve your relationships, or simply have more fun in life, this talk is sure to provide you with valuable insights and practical strategies for cultivating a playful and joyful existence. You can find the full community discussion in the Embracing Intensity Membership.

Rukshana has a huge Hunger to serve, to bring deep connection to transformation women all around the world. Rukshana Hafez Triem is an Author, inspirational Speaker, and CEO of a Women's Lifestyle Coaching LLC. Her journey started in Zambia living in a Refugee camp. Due to Trauma and overcoming her sexual abuse past, she was able to create a comfortable lifestyle that supports her family. She shares her story with others as she travels around the world, doing public speaking, workshops and Retreat and her New Mission Building schools in Africa, in Mozambique, Malawi and Zambia.

• Rukshana Triem, a former refugee, discovered the benefits of play and exercise through her Pacific Northwest Women's Hiking Group, emphasizing the importance of self-care activities for emotional health and balance in daily life.

• Playfulness and nature are connected for Rukshana, who suggests small steps like a mindful walk or bike ride as part of a self-care regimen to reduce daily stressors and promote positive changes in brain function and heart rate variability.

• Rukshana's book, Never Leave the Playground, encourages readers to create their own self-care plan based on their life experiences and personal commitment to self-love, vulnerability, and privacy policy.

• Self-care activities can also benefit family life, including young children who can develop social skills and transition rituals through play and new tasks, such as video games or self-regulation strategies, that promote a sense of play for the whole family.

• Incorporating play into our lives can be a healthy self-care practice for long-term health and managing daily stressors.

• Taking small steps towards our own goals, such as scheduling play during lunch breaks, can be a great way to build healthy habits.

• Different people may find play in different activities, and exploring what play means to us individually can be a new skill to develop.

• Encouraging family members and friends to prioritize play and building a culture of play can also be a form of self-care and a healthy habit.

• Building a culture of play is necessary for our soul and can give permission to others to prioritize play as well.

• There are resources available to dive deeper into the topic of play, including call recordings and podcasts.

• The speakers mentioned in the podcast, Gary Ware and Jeff Harry, have platforms focused on play and are great resources.

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In this episode, Zaakirah Muhammad joins us to discuss mindfulness, gratitude and how these practices can help to craft a more meaningful life in her talk on Seeing Life Through a Different Lens: Mindfulness and Gratitude as a Creative. She talks about how one can use visualizing, setting goals and forming a strong support system to help achieve their dreams. Zaakirah also shares some of her personal stories and how she has worked to create meaningful relationships and find her true self.

In addition, she talks about the role of culture and how one can use their cultural values and traditions to drive their motivation and set SMART goals that are qualitative and quantitative. Ultimately, this podcast episode encourages listeners to take small steps, stay mindful of their wants and needs, and form relationships with both family, friends and even strangers, to ultimately achieve a life of purpose and passion. By engaging in the practices of mindfulness and gratitude, one can find a clearer understanding of their purpose and lead them each step of the way to a happier, healthier, and more meaningful life.

Zaakirah has more than 10 years of professional photography and branding experience. She empowers people to step outside of their comfort zone through her gift of visual storytelling. Zaakirah is also the CEO and founder of Phocused Media Group which empowers and supports the growth of minority-owned businesses. She has overcome many challenges, including cancer, and autoimmune disease to establish herself as an innovative voice in the marketing industry. Zaakirah is the author of Seeing Life Through a Different Lens: A Survivor's Memoir on Overcoming Adversity with Resilience. She also hosts the podcast called See Life Different.

The Goal Setting Planner Tools and Setting Purposeful Goals Quick Guide are perfect for anyone who wants to take their personal and professional lives to the next level. Our user-friendly resources provide step-by-step guidance on how to set effective SMART goals, create tangible action plans, and stay motivated and focused on your pursuits. With tailored activities, create achievable objectives, envision purpose, and explore core values for an enriching life experience. Find purpose and vision, set specific, achievable goals, and break them down into manageable steps for an effective plan towards success. Reach your aspirations, form strong relationships, and make time for yourself for a happy and meaningful life.

Zaakirah's encourages listeners to create and achieve their own personal or professional goals within their own unique way. By utilizing her advice and tools, such as setting specific goals, creating tangible action plans, ensuring SMART goals, visualizing, and finding motivation in family, friends and spiritual values, they can live a more meaningful, prosperous and satisfying life. Taking the first step towards one's goal is the most crucial part, and with effort and dedication, they can one day reach the finish line.

• Zaakirah is an Arabic name for the Hereafter, which is fitting for someone who survived retinoblastoma, a childhood eye cancer, detected by the bright light of a photograph.
• Zaakirah is also living with PTSD and an autoimmune condition, Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome, and has pursued both entrepreneurship and part-time work with a positive impact.
• Zaakirah focuses on increasing awareness of ethnicities, religious faiths, geniuses, and disabilities, in order to create equitable education opportunities and personal growth.
• Establishing a positive mindset as soon as you wake up through free form journaling and speaking into future tense.
• Fueling your body with proper nutrition, e.g. fiber-rich meals and lots of water.
• Utilizing technology to time block specific tasks and set reminders.
• Remaining mindful and shifting negativity by listening to a focus-specific playlist.
• Journaling and goal setting as powerful tools for personal development and finding your life purpose.

• Taking time for self-care, such as music, meditation, nutrition, exercise, and art can help support and remind people of their sense of purpose.
• Healthy eating habits help provide nurturance and energy for the day and improve physical health.
• Affirmations are personal mantras that can be uplifting and empowering when spoken to oneself.
• Zaakirah encourages listeners to reflect on their goals and purposes for their actions towards a fulfilling life.
• Sign up for her email list for vision-boarding tips and more.
• Utilizing the smart method (specific, measurable, attainable, realistic and timely) for visualizing yourself and your meaningful goals.
• Zaakirah has a podcast with almost 100 episodes with topics ranging from education and advocacy around BIPOC communities to creative workspaces and morning routines.
• She is planning an in-person event called "See Life Different" to help participants explore purpose-building and develop skills for working in their businesses.
• Visualizing the future helps participants recognize and seize opportunities, and it is also important to be conscious of signs of burnout and know when to say no.

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Welcome to From Burnout to Brilliance, a talk that explores the best ways to manage work-related stress and overcome burnout. In this episode, we have the privilege of speaking with Dr. Zarya Rubin, a Harvard trained MD turned functional medicine health coach, who will be sharing her insights and expertise on this important topic. With the World Health Organization recognizing job burnout as a medical diagnosis, it's more important than ever to pay attention to the signs of burnout, particularly for those in stressful jobs such as health care workers and first responders. With long hours, heavy workloads, unreasonable time pressures, and a lack of self-care, it's not surprising that many people experience burnout. But it's not just work-related stress that can contribute to feelings of burnout. The household chores, long shifts, and a lack of much free time can also play a role.

We will take a closer look at the effects of burnout, including physical symptoms, mental exhaustion, and emotional exhaustion. We will also discuss the early signs of burnout and what you can do if you feel like you're experiencing burnout. From the importance of self-care habits, such as a healthy diet, spending time with family members, and deep breathing, to seeking professional help, Dr. Rubin will provide guidance on how to address burnout and begin the recovery process.

So, if you're feeling overwhelmed by work stress, or if you're just curious about the topic, be sure to tune in. The good news is, it's never too late to take the first step towards improving your mental and emotional health. Whether you're dealing with burnout for the first time or have been struggling for a long time, this podcast will provide you with the tools and insights you need to feel better and regain your quality of life.

You can find the full discussion and video presentation in the Embracing Intensity Guest Call Library.

• Dr. Zarya Rubin introduces herself as a physician, functional medicine coach, and speaker
• Healing from burnout is crucial so people can share their gifts with the world
• Dr. Zarya shares her personal experience with burnout and the symptoms she experienced, such as exhaustion, anxiety, panic attacks, and irritability
• Burnout is more than just a stressful job, it can be caused by a lack of control and tasks that compete with one's sense of self, as well as issues with the company, goals, supervisors, or managers
• Compassion fatigue and its relationship to burnout
• The difference between stress and burnout
• Burnout is a state of emotional, mental, and physical exhaustion brought on by prolonged or repeated stress and can lead to chronic health concerns
• Personal factors, environmental factors, and work-related factors can all contribute to burnout
• Neurodivergent burnout and the impact of masking and executive dysfunction
• The prevalence of burnout during and after the pandemic
• Burnout is not the fault of individuals and steps can be taken to prevent and manage it, such as improving sleep and food, avoiding going from one high stress job to another, setting boundaries, reaching out for help, building resilience, and seeking help from a qualified professional
• Zarya discusses the reasons why people avoid seeking help and the high rate of physician and educator burnout
• Final thoughts from Zarya, "(Life's) not a dress rehearsal, it's the real deal."

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Gifted kid burnout affects many smart kids and former gifted students who were once in gifted programs. As young adults, they often share a common theme of feeling burnt out and struggling with unrealistic expectations. The pressure to always achieve gold star grades and be at the top of the class can be overwhelming.

Gifted programs, often found in grade schools and even at the national level, focus on high achievement and a fixed trait of being "gifted." But what happens when these young adults, who were once in gifted classes and AP classes, are faced with the reality of adult life and the expectations of society? They may struggle with a lack of motivation and a harmful perfectionism that can lead to chronic stress.

This phenomenon, known as "gifted kid burnout," was first identified by Professor Carol Dweck, author of "Mindsets," and has been studied by the National Association for Gifted Children. It is a result of the fixed trait mindset that is often placed on gifted children, believing that their intelligence and abilities are innate and cannot be improved upon. This belief leads to unrealistic expectations and a lack of emphasis on the development of a growth mindset and good study habits.

This burnout can manifest in a variety of ways, such as a lack of motivation, harmful perfectionism, and chronic stress. For twice exceptional adults, who also have a neurodivergent condition, the experience can be even more challenging as they may have unique sources of stress in their daily lives and emotional needs.

School systems and the current educational environment may contribute to this issue. Gifted education programs and advanced classes may not always take into account the social-emotional needs and unique sources of stress for these students. This can lead to lack of study habits and a type of mindset that is not sustainable in the long-term, resulting in burnout.

Our guest today is Cate Osburn, also known as Catieosaurus on social media. She is an ADHD educator, a certified sex educator, and a disability advocate. Cate will share her personal experience with burnout as a twice exceptional adult and discuss her journey to finding balance and harmony in her passions and interests. Cate will also talk about how her experience in a gifted program, advanced classes, and the pressure to achieve good results in school led to unhealthy coping mechanisms and a lack of motivation in her daily life. We hope that her story will be a first step in understanding the experience of gifted kid burnout and the unique challenges faced by twice exceptional adults.

• Cate Osborne, also known as Catieosaurus, is an ADHD educator and advocate, as well as a disability advocate who focuses on the connection between neurodiversity and sex and intimacy in relationships.
• Cate splits her time evenly between her interests in ADHD and inclusivity in tabletop role-playing games like Dungeons and Dragons, making a career out of connecting seemingly unrelated things that overlap or are related.
• Cate's personal brand of intensity results in burnout and struggles with balancing intensity of passion as a full-time content creator discussing serious topics like mental health, sex, and intimacy.
• Cate's struggle with intensity is heightened as a neurodivergent person with ADHD and recently diagnosed with autism, and Difficulty in achieving balance is a myth, instead it's about finding harmony.
• Cate's intensity in childhood was characterized by intense curiosity and ADHD contributed to an interest in trying new things and having different hobbies. Cate's hobbies can be valuable in learning and leading to change in one's life.
• Cate started talking about the experience of being a gifted kid who is now burned out because of the pressure to always be the best.
• Aurora and Cate discuss how giftedness is often associated with being successful, but it can also result in burnout.
• Cate struggled with mixed messages about her self-worth and value as a gifted student growing up, and placed a lot of her self-worth in her academic success and being involved in activities and clubs.
• Cate's tendencies switched over to unhealthy coping mechanisms like people pleasing and perfectionism once she left school and had to start "living a life."

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Neurodivergent individuals are those who think, process information, and experience the world in ways that differ from the neurotypical (i.e., not neurodivergent) population. The neurodiversity movement advocates for the recognition and celebration of neurodiversity as a natural and valuable form of human diversity, similar to cultural, racial, or gender diversity. Neurodivergence is an important facet of the human race. It seeks to create a more inclusive and accepting society for neurodivergent people. Finding neurodivergent community can play a crucial role in connecting with other like-minded folks.

There are many different ways to be neurodivergent, and neurodivergent people may have unique ways of perceiving, learning, communicating, and interacting with the world. Neurodivergence can affect various brain functions such as attention, memory, and executive function, and can manifest in neurodevelopmental conditions such as ADHD, dyslexia, autism, and more. These neurodevelopmental differences can also provide unique perspectives that can lead to creative problem-solving.

Dominant societal standards have traditionally prioritized neurotypical values and perceptions, which can often leave out the rich perspectives of what neurodivergent people experience. The diversity of human brains and the ways in which they function can lead to new ideas and perspectives that can benefit society as a whole. By fostering an environment that is inclusive and accepting of neurodiversity, we can tap into the unique abilities and potential of neurodivergent people and create a more diverse and innovative society.

Building a solid neurodiversity network can help others connect over their common traits, and explore their own style of neurocognitive functioning.

The Embracing Intensity Community is a supportive online space for gifted, creative, and neurodivergent individuals. It is a place where members can connect with others who share similar experiences and challenges, and find support and understanding. The community is designed to provide a safe and welcoming environment where members can discuss their unique perspectives, share their insights and skills, and explore their full potential. The goal of the Embracing Intensity Community is to empower gifted, creative, and neurodivergent individuals to embrace their intensity and to live fulfilling and meaningful lives.

There are a number of other ways that neurodivergent adults can find and connect with their neurodivergent community. Some options include:

1. Online communities and forums: There are many online groups and forums specifically for neurodivergent people, where individuals can connect with others who share common experiences and challenges.
2. Local support groups: Many cities and towns have support groups for neurodivergent people and their families. These groups can provide a sense of belonging, as well as practical advice and resources for navigating daily life as a neurodivergent person.
3. Neurodiversity-focused events: There are often events and conferences focused on neurodiversity and the neurodiversity movement, where neurodivergent individuals can meet and connect with others.
4. Professional organizations: There are professional organizations that advocate for and support neurodivergent individuals, such as CHADD, the Neurodiversity Project and the Dyslexia Foundation. You can also find local resources in many areas.
5. College campuses: Colleges and Universities often have groups not only for neurodivergent students, but events for the larger community surrounding the school.

By finding and connecting with other neurodivergent people, individuals can find support, validation, and a sense of belonging. Neurodivergent people may also be able to share their experiences and offer insights and advice to others. Additionally, the neurodiversity movement promotes greater understanding and acceptance of neurodivergent people within society, which can help create a more inclusive and equitable world for all.

Neurodiversity advocates play an important role in promoting the acceptance and celebration of neurodevelopment differences and the unique ways in which people experience and perceive the world. They often share their personal experiences as neurodivergent individuals and work to educate others about the concept of neurodiversity. They may also work to highlight the strengths and abilities of neurodiverse people, as well as the challenges they face. By sharing stories and experiences, neurodiversity advocates can help to build understanding and acceptance of neurodivergent individuals within society.

The neurodiversity movement is often seen as a social justice movement, as it seeks to create a more inclusive and equitable society for neurodivergent people. Neurodiversity advocates work to raise awareness about the infinite variation in the way people's brains function and the diverse ways in which people experience the world.

One of the key roles of neurodiversity advocates is to connect neurodivergent individuals with the various neurodiversity resources that are available. This may include information about support groups, educational resources, and professional organizations that can help neurodiverse individuals navigate their daily lives and achieve their goals. In addition to advocating for neurodiversity within society, neurodiversity advocates may also work to build strong and supportive social relationships within the neurodivergent community. By connecting with others who share common experiences, neurodivergent individuals can find support, validation, and a sense of belonging.

Overall, the role of neurodiversity advocates is to promote understanding, acceptance, and celebration of the unique ways in which people's brains function and the diverse ways in which people experience the world. By doing so, they help to create a more inclusive and equitable society for all.

Marc Almodovar is a neurodiversity advocate, and the cofounder of the ADHD Men's Support Group, a group specifically for men who have been diagnosed with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Marc founded the group after his own personal experience with ADHD led him to feel isolated and misunderstood. He saw a need for a safe space where men with ADHD could connect with others who shared common experiences and challenges.

Through the ADHD Men's Support Group, Marc aims to provide a sense of belonging and support for men with ADHD. He believes that by sharing stories and experiences, men with ADHD can find validation and understanding, and build strong and supportive relationships. Marc also hopes to raise awareness about the unique ways in which people's brains function and the diverse ways in which people experience the world, as part of the larger neurodiversity movement.

Marc recognizes that mental illness can be stigmatized within society, and he hopes that the ADHD Men's Support Group can be a place where men with ADHD can feel safe and supported, regardless of their unique ways of thinking and experiencing the world. He believes that by fostering a sense of belonging and acceptance within the group, men with ADHD can work together to advocate for neurodiversity awareness and acceptance within society as a whole. He strikes a unique balance between positive feel-good stories and authenticity, without resorting to toxic positivity.

The ADHD Men's support group is a group specifically for men who have been diagnosed with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). The group provides a space for men with ADHD to connect with others who share common experiences and challenges.

One of the main goals of the ADHD Men's support group is to provide a sense of belonging and support for men with ADHD. Many men with ADHD may feel isolated or misunderstood due to the unique way in which their brains function and the neurodevelopment differences they experience. The ADHD Men's support group can provide a safe and supportive environment where men can share their experiences and find validation and understanding.

In addition to providing support and a sense of belonging, an ADHD Men's support group can also serve as a resource for men with ADHD. Group members may share information about treatment options, coping strategies, and other resources that can help men with ADHD navigate their daily lives. The ADHD Men's support group can also be a place for men with ADHD to connect with others who share common interests and goals. Through group discussions and social interactions, men with ADHD can build strong and supportive relationships and work together to advocate for neurodiversity awareness and acceptance.

Overall, the ADHD Men's support group can be a valuable resource for men with ADHD, providing support, validation, and a sense of belonging, as well as an opportunity to connect with others who share common experiences and goals. It can also be a place for men with ADHD to work towards social change and advocate for neurodiversity acceptance within society.

• Marc Almodovar is a coach, speaker, and has ADHD
• He is passionate about community building and helping men with ADHD feel seen
• Marc started an online support group for men with ADHD and it has grown into a nonprofit organization
• The organization is the largest online community for men with ADHD
• It's goal is to educate, empower, and inspire men with ADHD through community
• Marc enjoys chatting with other people with ADHD
• He struggled with understanding and managing his ADHD and had low self-confidence as a result
• Cultural factors, including a lack of awareness, education and understanding about ADHD, affected Marc's ability to express himself and understand his own brain
• Marc did not have behavioral or impulsive issues, but he was often "toned out" or distracted
• He learned to tone himself down by learning to manage his time and energy, setting boundaries, and practicing self-care
• Marc has also learned to embrace his intensity and use it to his advantage by finding ways to channel it into his work and passions
• He has found that learning to manage his intensity has helped him to be more present and engaged in his relationships and activities

• Marc uses his intensity to create a space for others to be themselves and feel seen
• His personal brand is built on transparency and listening to others
• Marc has harnessed the power of his intensity by being true to himself and embracing his strengths
• He has found that by putting himself in spaces where he can be himself, he is able to use his speaking and active listening skills to connect with others and make a positive impact.
• Marc uses affirmations to hype himself up and boost his confidence before speaking events
• He helps others use their fire by sharing his own experiences and learning openly and transparently
• Marc believes that honesty and transparency are important and encourages others to embrace their intensity and not worry about pleasing everyone
• Marc emphasizes the importance of self-care and setting boundaries to manage intensity
• He advises others to embrace their passions and find ways to channel their intensity into their work and hobbies
• Marc encourages others to be kind to themselves and remember that it's okay to not have everything figured out

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As neurodivergent creatives, we often find ourselves overwhelmed with too much stuff both in our environment and in our minds. We may be overrun with office supplies, craft supplies, and/or miscellaneous things that support our hyperfixations or latest hyperfocus. The ADHD brain is especially prone to mental clutter, and when our environment is a mess it's even harder to quiet our thoughts. On our last guest call, Nadja Carghetti shared how you can use Marie Kondo's approach to tidy your brain!

Many people think you are either tidy or untidy, but the good news is that tidying is something you can learn! In Marie Kondo's book, The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up, she shares how we can systematically tidy our space by getting rid of things that don't spark joy. Marie Kondo's method of tidying can be applied to your mind as well as your stuff and help prioritize the things we spend our mental energy on.

On this episode of Embracing Intensity, we share our talk with Nadja Carghetti, former tidying coach and host of the Unleash Monday Podcast, on Tidying Up Your Brain, Marie Kondo Style!

• Why people's homes reflect their life.
• Nadja's experience of being a multipotentialite and interested in many things.
• How growing up messy in her tidy parents' house led her to believe you were either tidy or untidy.
• It took a long time to realize that tidying was something you could learn.
• The systematic decluttering process that can help you clear your space and mind.
• How learning the KonMari tidying method led to diving deeper into what brought her joy!
• Finding yourself through the process of tidying.
• Why tidying is considered a festival rather than a party.
• The 5 categories of things and the best order to sort them.
• Sorting through information overload to find the important bits.

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This week on Embracing Intensity, we share our talk with Dr. Matt Zakreski on self-advocacy skills. Self-advocacy is an important skill that can help you take charge of your own life and move toward greater freedom, fulfillment, and happiness. In this episode, we'll explore the concept of self-advocacy and how it can help us feel more empowered in our own daily life.

The goal of self-advocacy is to actively advocate on your own behalf to get your needs met. To be a strong self-advocate, you have to have a clear understanding of your own needs. This is important because it will determine your goals and how you will achieve them. If you have a goal in mind, you need to have a plan to get there. 

The first step to positive change is to know what you are good at and what you are not good at. Explore how you can use your strengths to your advantage, and use your weaknesses as opportunities for growth. 

When you're trying to make a change, bringing in allies is powerful because it can give you insight into the world that you don't have. They can help you see things that you wouldn't have thought about. Gifted and neurodivergent folks often feel like they have to go it alone in their adult life. Self advocates use their support system such as colleagues, service providers, family members, or peer support. They aren't afraid to ask for help!

It is very important to set the stage and prepare yourself for the conversation ahead of time so that you can be as successful as possible. The best way to do that is to set aside time to prepare and to have all of your notes and your ideas and your facts ready. This way you will be able to focus and be more effective during the conversation.

Also, consider doing it at a time and in a place where you can expect to have success. Set up a good place and time to talk about your needs, but give enough context of what you'd like to discuss so the other person doesn't assume the worst. 

Before we start with self-advocacy, we also need to consider the person we are advocating to and understand that their strengths and challenges might not be the same as ours. We need to be specific and tangible and help them take ownership and buy into the solution. By taking on a leadership role in the conversation we can help guide its direction.

In order to give yourself the best chance possible to succeed, you have to be prepared to be flexible and let go of rigid expectations. If you are getting resistance from your boss or others, it's a good idea to ask yourself, what do I need to do to get to the thing I want? Let them play a meaningful role in shaping what you need to do next. What new things can you try to improve the lives of people you're working with? What employment opportunities might forward your career?

It is also helpful to consider the benefits to everyone and make it a win-win. Explore how you both get the most out of the situation, help build and strengthen relationships and improve the lives of others. Getting what you want in the moment may not pay off in the long run if it means burning a bridge. Communicating clearly and assertively can help get our own needs met without compromising the needs of others.

It's important to be specific with your plan for following up or life might get in the way. Self-Advocacy is a lifelong process of constantly setting and re-setting boundaries. This process helps you to move forward in a positive way, towards being more successful as a self-advocate.

Join us to learn more about self-advocacy with Dr. Matt!

• Good self-advocates get super clear on what they need.
• Tips for playing to your strengths, using your weaknesses as opportunities for growth, and taking steps to overcome them.
• Exploring your resources, connecting with allies, and recognizing the kind of help that's available.
• The importance of timing and coming prepared to set yourself up for success.
• Setting clear goals to improve our own lives and the lives of others.
• Developing meta-communication and self-determination skills.
• How flexibility can help us get what we need in the long run.
• Meeting in the middle to set up a win-win solution.
• Getting buy-in and setting everyone up for success.
• Communicating assertively instead of passively or aggressively.
• The importance of specific, tangible, and direct communication.
• Setting a clear plan to follow up for success.

Matt's website

Embracing Intensity Course Membership

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* Transcript Available on EmbracingIntensity.com *

I am so thrilled to get to share Dr. Kimberly Douglass' talk on Decolonizing Neurodivergence!

Do you ever wonder why we get into loops on social media platforms when we talk about neurodivergence? We have convinced ourselves this conversation is just about validating each other and understanding the traits of various conditions. The very definition of what it means to be neurodivergent is rooted in colonialist thinking and behavior.
It's clear to me: we don't want to talk about the hard changes we have to make to ourselves, to our self-image; the hard changes we should demand from our society.

We keep the conversation at the level of defining a problem; defining ourselves as the problem. We are willing to be the problem as long as we don't have to challenge ourselves, other people, our families, our employers, our communities, our worlds.

But, you know we talk about neurodivergence in ways that allow the powerful to hold on to their power. We are more comfortable with this than risking being disliked, having things taken from us or feeling powerful inside our own skin. Even the word power makes us uncomfortable. These are the ways we have been taught. This is colonization.Regardless of what you have been taught, YOU are the way to transformation for yourself and for others. With guidance on how to think about neurodivergence, we can help see yourself just as you are!

Let's discuss here on my weekly blog: bit.ly/decolonizingndblog.

Dr Kimberly Douglass is the full-time owner of Kimberly Douglass, PhD, LLC. Dr Douglass and her team are designing a world in which neurodivergent people feel they belong. The team fuses disability advocacy with design thinking. Douglass' team designs digital and paper content, such as courses, ebooks, journals, workbooks and the Neurodivergently Thinking cards. Also, the team offers premium 1 to 1 coaching services.
Dr Douglass' signature product is her Decolonizing Neurodivergence course.

The team's content and services challenge everyday processes that marginalize and shame neurodivergent people. Dr Douglass became a full-time business owner after working as staff, peer-reviewed researcher, faculty and administrator in higher education for over 17 years. She began the advocacy work over 12 years ago, when she became the chief advocate for her Son who is neurodivergent. She has since gotten more in touch with her own neurodivergence. Dr Douglass is married to Dean Tate and lives in Tennessee. Douglasskimberlylynn@gmail.com

• Her thoughts on growing up neurodivergent and breaking from the system.
• Moving from seeking validation to examining systems.
• Some common threads of neurodivergence.
• How we are living in a culture of consumption.
• Why no one wins under the current capitalist paradigm.
• Creating an agenda to make change.
• Why neurodivergence often comes with trauma.
• Examining how do we know what we think we know?
• The focus on compliance in our schools.
• Why we accept less, and deserve ease & flow.
• What neurodivergence Brings to the table.
• Supporting each other & building relationships.
• Examining our own systems we live in.
• Moving away from defensiveness & denial to make positive change.
• The elements of white supremacy culture.
• How you can support Kimberly's work!

Transcript Available on Embracing Intensity's Website

Support Kimberly's work and receive the first Decolonizing Neurodivergence Book!

Join our Community & Check out our calendar of upcoming events!

Access our Course and Content Membership including our past Guest Call Library

In this highly engaging episode of the Embracing Intensity podcast, host Aurora Remember Holtzman dives deep into the world of Nonviolent Communication (NVC) with Bob Yamtich, a seasoned practitioner with over 20 years of experience. Bob shares how NVC has shaped his approach to relationships, parenting, and self-understanding, particularly as a neurodivergent individual. This conversation is packed with practical insights and tools for those seeking to enhance their self-connection and interpersonal communication.

About Bob Yamtich:

Bob Yamtich is a dedicated Nonviolent Communication trainer, therapist, and engineer. His journey into NVC began after his career as an environmental engineer, driven by his desire to contribute to societal change through better communication. Bob's unique approach integrates empathy with analytical insights, honoring the importance of neurodivergence in his work and personal growth. He is a passionate advocate for using NVC as a bridge between self-awareness and impactful communication.

In This Episode:

• Bob's personal journey with Nonviolent Communication and how it helped him find balance as a bipolar individual.

• The core principles of NVC: self-connection, empathy, and honesty.

• How to distinguish between needs and strategies, and why it matters in communication.

• The concept of holding multiple needs and strategies simultaneously for resilience and creativity.

• Balancing analytical insights with empathy in understanding neurodivergence.

• Practical exercises, including identifying three current needs and corresponding strategies.

• How NVC fosters community, shared power, and collaborative problem-solving.

• Bob's experiences teaching NVC to diverse audiences, including children and incarcerated individuals.

• The shift from "battle mode" to "build mode" in creating meaningful connections.

Links and Resources:

• Learn more about Nonviolent Communication and its principles here.

• Learn more about Bob on his website!

• Explore Aurora's Neurodivergent Toolbox and other resources at the Embracing Intensity Shop.

• Get 25% off Aurora's digital products and memberships with code BIRTHDAY24 (valid until Dec 2).

Whether you're new to Nonviolent Communication or a seasoned practitioner, this episode offers valuable insights and actionable strategies for enriching your connections with yourself and others. Tune in for a thought-provoking and uplifting discussion!

Today's episode is a recording of our talk with Leela Sinha on the intersection of neurodivergence and gender. This is definitely not an "inside-the-box" topic. You can find the full discussion in the Embracing Intensity community at community@embracingintensity.com.  

Show Highlights:

• The overlap between autism and gender diversity
• How neurodivergence is defined as a very broad umbrella term for the different ways that people's brains function
• Why the definition of queerness has changed over time but is still used as an umbrella term
• The overlap between queerness and neurodivergence
• How growing up with a different sense of known reality will cause attitudes and moves of self-protection
• How deconstruction occurs in society and feels "right" to stigmatized people
• Why identifying as non-binary or trans has become trendy as people have become more aware of their options for exploration
• Challenges in the non-binary gender spaces because of bias even in inclusion views
• How a fully nourishing environment helps neurodivergent kids understand their options and feel safe to express themselves
• How the progression occurs in media representation for queer representation and non-binary representation
• How pathologizing neurodivergence or queerness can affect a person's ability to access resources and care
• Why accessibility is often not accounted for in the help and support spaces

Resources:

Connect with our community:

community@embracingintensity.com 

Connect with Leela Sinha:   Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn, and www.leelasinha.com  

We all have our "beyond our wildest imagination" dreams that we never realistically hope to achieve. This is not true for today's guest. She truly is living her dream in a place she never thought possible, and she's teaching others to reach for the unimaginable also. Join us to learn more!

Sadie Smiley created Passive Income Pathways, where she gives expert advice about online businesses and how passive income can help achieve your wildest goals. She pushes people to learn how to make full-time money with part-time work, teaching them to "create, sell, kick ass, and repeat."

Show Highlights:

• Why Sadie is intensely passionate about helping people make money beyond their wildest dreams
• The key to Sadie's success: networking with others with different superpowers as a trade-off for the things she doesn't love to do
• How Sadie's personal brand of intensity in being "too much" means that she submerges herself 100% into whatever she does
• Why a time audit color code can be a game-changer for entrepreneurs
• How to charge your "happy price" and feel good about it
• How Sadie, with ADHD and autism, was a gifted student with good grades who had problems following rules
• How Sadie helps clients make money, no matter what barriers they have
• How Sadie learned where she was "masking" herself and learned to feel loved, cared for, and respected through the love of her husband
• How Sadie's intensity has felt out of control many times because of her neurodiversity and personality issues, but she has learned to "grow through" the intensity
• How Sadie uses her fire for good in channeling her intensity into coaching and helping others
• How Sadie feels safe in her life now and doesn't worry about doing things wrong "according to the experts"
• Why showing up consistently for her family, clients, and readers has helped Sadie manifest everything she has achieved
• How to focus on something small that is within your control when you feel the "shame spiral"
• Why Sadie loves helping others identify their passions and interests to give them what they need
• Sadie's parting advice: "Work hard on showing up authentically and with consistency. Do something every day to move your business forward, and success will be the only option. Picture your wildest, craziest dream–and then work backward from it to show up every day to make it happen."

Resources:

Connect with Sadie at  www.sadiesmiley.com or here to learn about the Passive Income Pathways membership program.

Visit www.embracingintensity.com/community for more information and to learn about future events!

Today's episode is a recording from last fall about time management from a neurodivergent perspective. We are joined on the guest call by Emily Roach-Griffin, who is ADHD and gifted, and her insights resonate soundly with many of us. She is a business coach and speaker at BizBFF who loves helping business owners and those with an entrepreneurial spirit to build businesses and lives they love. Join us to hear Emily's nuggets of wisdom about practical time management strategies!

Show Highlights:

• Journaling prompts about what's most difficult about time management
• Why time management should be thought of as "task management"
• Why we need to unravel and untether ourselves from much of our traditional thinking about productivity and self-worth
• The importance of a toolbox of strategies, realizing that different tools may be effective on different days:
• • Tools to help with "time blindness" and time awareness, like a timer and to-do list
  • Tools to help with being on time, like an app 
  • Tools to help with tasks, like breaking large tasks into "baby tasks"
  • Tools to help prioritize tasks, like containers
• How Emily has "game-ified" her household tasks to change her perspective
• Why time management is NOT about getting more done in less time
• How to use a check-in system with your energy level to determine what is possible
• Why avoiding certain tasks might be our attempts to conceal our pain

Resources:

Connect with Emily: Biz BFF and Facebook

Why Bother: Discover the Desire for What's Next by Jennifer Louden

Visit www.community.embracingintensity.com to find the library of all EI guest calls and to RSVP to future events!

Today's show carries a timely message for those of us who returned to work or school after the anxiety-ridden shutdown of the pandemic. As we try to move forward, many of us still face anxiety and burnout. My guest's message of tapping into your intuition and doing things outside the box is relevant to almost everyone. Join us to learn more!

Cam Werley-Gonzales is an intuitive, living visionary, gifted embodiment expert, and intuitive unschooling catalyst. She is the owner of the Cambria Institute, a company that celebrates learning and living fully outside the proverbial education "box." With over 25 years as an expert educator, it is Cam's deepest conviction that while learners can engage with some success in typical schools, they are optimally served by alternate learning pathways, most notably "unschooling." The Cambria Institute supports gifted families to embody their giftedness in all areas of life. The truth is that we get to learn, friend, work, love, parent, hobby, and enjoy all the things that come along with this intense and massively phenomenal gifted life with ease and alignment, uniquely in our own way. 

Show Highlights:

• Why Cam is intensely passionate about unschooling and her family's unconventional life of travel and location independence as digital nomads
• How Cam opened an alternative-style brick and mortar school in Pasadena in 2019–right before the pandemic chaos began
• Why the Cambria Curated Community (CCC) was formed as a community of unschooling families
• How Cam's personal brand of intensity means big feelings and big emotions–all the time
• How Cam's intensity affected her in childhood with the need to hide her true self and be a people-pleaser in her family
• How Cam learned "to play the school game" really well as a kid but was traumatized, in part because of Pragmatic Language Impairment
• Differences in Pragmatic Language Impairment (PLI) and autism
• How Cam noticed communication differences the most in relationship with her spouse, who comes from a different cultural background
• How Cam learned to tone down and tune herself out in her professional career as a teacher and just follow what she was told to do
• How Cam's intensity got out of control when she was homeschooling her oldest son
• How Cam uses her fire for good to help families learn unschooling and live intuitively
• How unschooling is defined: "Trusting that each person will intuitively be drawn to learn all the things they need to learn in their lifetime to tap into who they are as individuals so that their learning caters directly to them. The focus is on self-direction in learning."
• How our intuition relates to our authenticity as a unique person and promotes emotional intelligence
• How Cam harnesses the power of her intensity by tuning into her happiness and joy with her life, family, and work
• Why Cam adopted the personal habit of giving herself the gift of "slow mornings" 
• How Cam helps others use their own fire by teaching people to tap into their true intuition and authenticity

Today's episode is the Embracing Intensity Community Call with guest speaker Alexandra Loves. The topic is Drama vs. Passion, which is highly relevant to intense people. I'm excited to share this with you! You can find the full discussion at www.community.embracingintensity.com.

As I'm working hard to finish out this school year, I am busy behind the scenes with some great projects planned for this coming summer and fall, and I'll be sharing more about those later. Enjoy the call with Alexandra!

Show Highlights:

• How Alexandra defines the concept of drama vs. passion: "Passion is an intense desire or emotion sourced from within from a loving place. Drama is a chaotic, ungrounded emotional desire that comes from a place of fear and is sourced from 'out there'."
• A personal example of a conversation Alexandra had recently with someone about their passion–but it felt manipulative 
• What it feels like when someone says, "You are being dramatic."
• How Alexandra has learned to look for clarity and mutual trust in relationships
• Why your passions are worth protecting with high standards and boundaries
• How to deal with intense emotions and discern between drama and passion

Resources:

Connect with Alexandra and claim a free download, Unstuck: Remedy for Internal Toxicity: www.alexandraloves.com. 

Find her Woke Wisdom Podcast. 

Join our community: www.community.embracingintensity.com  

Imposter syndrome is something that most people have felt at some point or another. Intense people may feel this in magnified ways, as the world tells them they are not welcome as they are. Join us on this guest call to learn more!

Kate Arms is a return guest to the show, and I'm thrilled to welcome her back for this guest call. Kate is a classic overthinker, high achiever, and multipotentiality who exudes intensity. Her career has spanned being a lawyer, arts administrator, coach for gifted and twice-exceptional adults and parents of gifted and twice-exceptional kids, and an Agile Coach in a high-tech company. She is the author of several books and has experience in coaching, leadership development, and psychology. Kate is here to help us understand imposter syndrome and how to reduce our suffering within it by building more connections. 

Show Highlights:

• Kate defines imposter syndrome as "a group of symptoms clustered together to make us feel like we don't belong"
• How symptoms can include anxiety, hypervigilance self-consciousness, self-sabotage, perfectionism, and a sense of hiding who you really are
• How these symptoms pair with suffering to make us feel awful and ashamed
• How symptom relief and root-cause relief work together
• Why imposter syndrome boils down to belonging, connection, and a feeling of, "They won't want me if they know who I really am."
• How we are programmed (especially intense people) to think we are not welcome as we are because of childhood shaming, being told to "tone down," and being too much or too sensitive
• How the "mismatch" occurs and how to address it
• How the process of learning happens when we start out blissfully ignorant
• The difference between identity and character vs. skills and experiences
• Why we must to learn to be comfortable in being ourselves–even if it makes others uncomfortable
• Why it's hard to risk having the courage to overwhelm others with who we really are
• How we can build our sense of belonging through building our community
• How feeling connection with at least three people in your group will foster your feeling of belonging

Resources:

Hear the follow-up conversation with Kate:  Community.embracingintensity.com 

Today's show focuses on the twice-exceptional experience. As with so many people in this line of work, my guest looks to provide for students and families the help and support that he needed–and didn't have as he grew up. Join us to learn more!

Barry Gelston is the president of GHF, Gifted Home Education Forum. They do amazing work with gifted and twice-exceptional families. Barry is an educator through "Mr. Gelston's One Room Schoolhouse," an online homeschool program focused on providing individualized educational services for gifted and 2E learners. In this episode, we enjoyed discussing how being 2E ourselves led us to the work of helping and supporting 2E families. 

Show Highlights:

• Why Barry is intensely passionate about making a difference by being a positive activist who loves his family and tries hard to be a good person in the world
• How Barry's personal brand of intensity shows up with constant focus and rumination about one topic at a time and being aware of sensory overload
• How Barry grew up totally dysregulated as an underachiever with social and emotional issues from being in a divorced family
• How Barry approached his problems with his attempt at executive functioning skills to become a good student and make more of his life
• What Barry would say to the adults in his life "back then"
• Why Barry's work today revolves around what he needed as a 2E child
• How Barry learned to overcome his reading struggles and dyslexia to become a voracious reader
• Why wonderful things are happening in strengths-based approaches with 2E students
• How Barry's cultural identity formed largely around growing up in a Jewish family in Queens
• Why Barry always felt like he had to tone himself down or tune himself out as he grew up and learned the art of conversation
• How Barry's intensity felt out of control in early adulthood because of social pressures
• How Barry uses his fire for good through teaching and his work, trying to fix for others what he wishes would have been fixed for him
• How mindfulness, meditation, self-centering, and 2E awareness have helped Barry harness the power of his intensity
• How creating systems and structures has helped with executive functioning for Barry–and how he uses it to help students
• How Barry helps others use their own fire through connecting and learning from each other

Resources:

Connect with Barry:  GHF Learners and Mr. Gelston's One Room Schoolhouse

Today's show looks at the differences and overlap of giftedness, twice-exceptionality, autism, and ADHD within the overexcitability framework. Join us to learn more!

Chris Wells is a writer, therapist, and researcher on all things Dabrowski. She has a nuanced take on the concept of overexcitability, a topic on which she has focused much time, energy, and study. Chris is our first three-time guest on the podcast, having appeared most recently to discuss positive disintegration. Let's hear more from Chris!

In this episode:

• How Chris came to overexcitability in 2014 on her quest to learn more about twice-exceptionality
• How Chris was identified as gifted as a kid but felt more disabled and mentally ill
• How Chris felt broken and emotionally intense by the time she was 40
• How overexcitability turned around her perceptions of herself as problematic and defective
• How Chris became hyperfocused on understanding overexcitability
• How Chris found Dabrowski's early work, which identified four types of overexcitability: psychomotor, imaginational, sensual, and emotional
• How the gifted education world has finally accepted overexcitability as a characteristic of giftedness
• Why overexcitability is an umbrella term that brings together all the elements of neurodivergence
• Why Chris says autism and ADHD are "clearly neuro-cousins"
• Why there are so many misunderstandings about overexcitability in gifted education
• How overexcitability brings a whole different reality to those who have it
• How Chris's imagination would take her to another place and another reality when she was growing up–and overexcitability gave her the answers for it
• The problem in learning to live with overexcitability
• Why giftedness is a meaningful difference, even in adults
• How we can best support those with overexcitability in light of the knowledge we now have and the labels we use
• Why we struggle as a whole to figure out the right language to use

Resources:

Check out our calendar of upcoming events: www.embracingintensity.com/community

Today's show introduces you to a difference-maker in the world of neurodivergence. Her collective endeavors to advocate for kids, parents, and families are truly making a difference. Join us to learn more!

Debbie Reber is an author, speaker, and parenting activist. In 2016, she founded Tilt Parenting, a website, top podcast, and online community aimed at helping parents raise differently wired kids from a place of confidence, connection, and joy. Debbie's most recent book is Differently Wired: A Parent's Guide to Raising an Atypical Child with Confidence and Hope.

In this episode:

• Get to know Debbie, who lives in Brooklyn with her husband and 17-year-old neurodivergent child; they lived in the Netherlands for several years prior to moving back to the US
• Why Debbie is intensely passionate about learning, being curious about everything, writing, helping kids and families, and running
• How Debbie's personal brand of intensity comes through in her inability to stop doing things and not being able to stop or rest
• How Debbie grew up as a misunderstood child and class clown who channeled her energy into sports because it was the one area in which she was competent
• How Debbie, as a high school student, worked just hard enough to get by and didn't care about applying herself
• How cultural factors affected Debbie: her family didn't prioritize academics and didn't teach her to value herself; there were strict religious rules that she wasn't allowed to question
• How Debbie's best friend's family w
• ere the ones who introduced her to museums, travel, and a world outside her small Pennsylvania town
• How Debbie learned to tone herself down during her college years because she wanted to be perceived in a certain way to achieve her "means to an end"
• Why Debbie felt close to burnout during COVID and learned to prioritize what's really important to her
• How she has learned to enjoy her life more and not work so much
• How Debbie uses her fire and drive to help people and make a difference
• How making things sparks her and fulfills her
• How Debbie has learned to be really organized from her beginning with poor executive functioning skills and is constantly hacking her own systems and processes
• Why Debbie's discipline around exercise and fitness is the key to mental and emotional health for her
• How Debbie helps others use their fire by helping them create the lives they want
• Why Debbie began Tilt Parenting almost six years ago because there were so few resources for parents of neurodivergent kids
• How more and more adults talking about their neurodivergence is helping to "fuel the movement

Connect with Debbie:

• www.tiltparenting.com Visit this site for Debbie's podcast, multiple resources, and more
•  www.debbiereber.co
• Find Debbie on Facebook and Instagram.

Books by Debbie mentioned in this episode:

• Differently Wired: A Parent's Guide to Raising an Atypical Child with Confidence and Hope
• Doable: The Girls' Guide to Accomplishing Just About Anything
• Run for Your Life: A Book for Beginning Women Runners

Show Highlights:

The countdown of our top ten most downloaded episodes from 2021:

#10: Ep. 231 Intuitive Flow with Kari Betton
Our July Guest Call was on Intuitive Flow and Creativity. Kari is a coach and mentor for highly sensitive and twice-exceptional people, and she has a passion for helping them find their innate sense of intuitive flow.

#9: Ep. 239 Perspectives in Giftedness with Gail Post
Being gifted can complicate many situations in life. It is wonderful to know that empathetic and supportive professionals are dedicating their lives to advocacy for these individuals. Learn more with psychotherapist Gail Post.

#8: Ep. 229 Thinking Patterns
I have seen a lot of posts about the overlap and similarities between ADHD and Autism, and it got me thinking about some observations I'd made both personally and professionally testing neurodivergent kids over the years. I also asked for feedback from neurodivergent people on social media about the patterns they related to most.

#7: Ep. 235 Playing with Your Inner Critic with Jeff Harry
This show allows you to listen to our recent group call with Jeff Harry of Rediscover Your Play. Jeff provides tips, insights, and interactive exercises to learn more about "Playing With Your Inner Critic." Find the full discussion in the Embracing Intensity Community.

#6: Ep. 202 Chipping Away at Societal Conditioning with Julia R. Wild
This show focuses on highly sensitive people. My guest loves helping HSPs uncover the layers of conditioning put on them by society and bloom in their uniqueness. Julia R. Wild is a bestselling author, spiritual teacher, and trauma educator with a Master's degree in psychology. She is also a writing, creativity, and life coach.

#5: Ep. 207 "But I'm Not Really THAT Smart"
I've heard a lot more comments lately along the lines of, "I relate to your work, but I'm not really gifted." In this episode, I discuss why gifted folks might not recognize their own gifts, along with some resources to explore if you suspect that you might be gifted.

#4: Ep. 236 Gifted and 2E Assessment
This solo episode is about a topic that I've thought about for a long time, so I'm happy to bring it to you. We will discuss getting an assessment as a gifted or twice-exceptional adult, so I hope you find my thoughts and tips helpful.

#3: Ep. 208 Coaching and Mentoring Neurodivergent Adults with Dr. Kimberly Douglass
I found this guest in the most unusual place: TikTok! I first noticed her work with gifted and twice-exceptional people, and I knew I had to have her on the show. Dr. Kimberly Douglass is president and CEO of Remote Learning Solutions.

#2: Ep. 226 Asynchronous Development in Gifted Adults with Tiff Choumm
Our June Guest Call was on Asynchronous Development in Gifted Adults. Asynchronous development is a hallmark of the gifted experience, when we may have developed far ahead of our peers in some areas and have fallen behind in others. This can continue into adulthood, especially for those who are also twice-exceptional, and it can impact many aspects of our life experiences. Find the full discussion in the Embracing Intensity Community.

#1: Ep. 205 Twice Exceptionality–When Giftedness Meets ADHD
Last year, I participated in an event called Camp ADHD, where folks around the world shared talks and discussion on topics related to ADHD. I spoke about twice-exceptionality, specifically as it relates to ADHD, and the topic seemed to resonate with many, so I decided to share my talk on twice-exceptionality on the podcast as well.

I'm super excited to announce our 2022 guest speakers and general topics! (Specific details are subject to change.) You can find the schedule listed in the events calendar on the Embracing Intensity Community, and it will soon be on the 2E Connection and Embracing Intensity website calendars!

January 22–Leela Sinha, from Ep. 7: The Intersection of Queerness and Neurodivergence

February 19–Alexandra Loves, from Ep. 67: Passion vs. Drama

March 19–Boontarika Sripom, from Ep. 177: Play

April 16–Cosette "CoCo" Leary, from Ep. 181: Building Confidence and Resilience

May 21–Aileen Kelleher, from Ep. 241: Perfectionism

June 18–Mara McLoughlin, from Ep. 230: Neurodivergent Social Connection

August 20–Dr. Kimberly Douglass, from Ep. 208: Navigating Systems as a Neurodivergent

September 17–Dr. Matt Zakreski, from Ep. 240: Self-Advocacy

October 15–Nadja Careghetti, from Ep. 198: Tidying Up Your Brain (Marie Kondo-Style)

November 19–Julia Wild, from Ep. 202: How to Heal

Resources:

Find more information at community@embracingintensity.com.

This episode of the Embracing Intensity podcast, features a detailed conversation with Heather Borman Morris about understanding narcissistic relationships and how they uniquely affect gifted and neurodivergent individuals. Heather, a clinical social worker, shares her personal experience with narcissistic abuse, providing insights on identifying covert narcissism versus mere intense interest, particularly in neurodivergent or twice-exceptional individuals. The discussion delves into strategies for recognizing and managing toxic relationships, differentiating between narcissism and authentic behaviors, and emphasizes the need for understanding personal boundaries and fostering healthy relationships post-abuse. The episode also introduces Heather's work, including her book 'A Thousand Paper Cuts' and the podcast 'Starting Stronger'.

About Heather:

Heather Boorman-Morris is a renowned therapist, speaker, and author dedicated to helping individuals heal and thrive after experiencing toxic relationships. With over two decades of experience in the field, Heather specializes in trauma recovery, relationship dynamics, and neurodivergent mental health. She is the founder of Starting Stronger and the author of the acclaimed book Thousand Paper Cuts: Finding Healing in the Aftermath of a Narcissist. Heather's compassionate approach and deep understanding of complex emotional landscapes make her a sought-after expert in the journey towards healthy, fulfilling relationships.

In this episode:

• Heather joins the podcast to discuss navigating healthy relationships, focusing on narcissistic abuse.

• Heather shares her experience of being in an abusive relationship and later discovering covert narcissism.

• Discussion on the targeting of neurodivergent individuals by narcissists, highlighting their traits like empathy and ambition.

• Differences between overt and covert narcissists are outlined, including their stages of relationship: idealization, devaluation, and discard.

• Strategies like mirroring used by manipulators in relationships are explained.

• Emphasis on trusting one's body and intuition as indicators of being in a toxic relationship.

• Conversation on distinguishing between love bombing and genuine neurodivergent intensity.

• Importance of taking time to build relationships and recognizing genuine intentions.

• Discussion about the impact of past trauma and hyper-vigilance when forming new relationships.

Join our Community & Check out our calendar of upcoming events!

Embracing Intensity Memberships

Starting Stronger Podcast

A Thousand Papercuts

Interoception Website

Today's guest has wonderful Instagram posts, many of them covering her work with twice-exceptional adults. I'm a fan of hers, and she's a fan of the podcast, so it's exciting to introduce her to the Embracing Intensity audience!

Aileen Kelleher is a licensed clinical social worker, therapist, and coach. Her therapy practice in Chicago specializes in helping gifted and twice-exceptional children build social-emotional skills, self-compassion, and confidence to recover from anxiety, depression, and other mental health difficulties. Her international coaching practice focuses on helping gifted and 2E women harness their talents to help them find fulfillment and fun in their personal, professional, and social lives.

Show Highlights:

• Why Aileen is intensely passionate about working with 2E people and sharing tools and resources
• How Aileen's personal brand of intensity manifests in her passion and her ability to embrace conflict and argumentative engagement; she appears intimidating to others and feels emotions deeply
• Growing up, Aileen experienced bullying from her peers that put her "on guard" with anxiety and fear where there was the capacity for negative emotions; she also had an early sense of social justice
• How Aileen identifies now as a 2E person who has anxiety, depression, and some ADHD characteristics
• In school, Aileen was a student who was eager to please her teachers and experienced solid support from her mother; she struggled to fit in and be accepted with peers
• How, as she grew older, she began challenging authority, rebelling, and calling out injustice
• How being from a large, Irish Catholic family trained her to use direct bluntness that not everyone accepts
• How Aileen learned to tone herself down and tune herself out by escaping in reading books and watching TV; in later life, she numbed herself through substance abuse to "check out" from reality
• How Aileen experienced her out-of-control intensity through raging at people as a young person and now uses writing, exercise, and art as ways to maintain control
• How Aileen has learned not to be "the biggest voice" in the room but to lift up and make room for the voices of others in community and collaboration
• How Aileen uses her fire for good by being helpful and learning all that she can about what she feels passionate about; she has also learned to admit her mistakes and keep going
• How Aileen helps other 2E adults find meaning, joy, and purpose in their lives
• How relationships with family and friends have helped Aileen learn to reach out for help and trust herself
• Why Aileen likes helping others define and find their personal values
• How ACT (acceptance and commitment therapy) helps gifted kids figure out what they care about beyond simply proving how smart they are

Parting words from Aileen: "You are OK just the way you are, even if you feel like you don't belong in a certain situation. That doesn't mean that there is something fundamentally wrong with you, and it's OK to ask for help if you need it. Gifted and 2E can have full and satisfied lives, and the fact that we are different shouldn't stop us from pursuing what we want--and what everyone else gets to have."

Resources:

Find Aileen on Instagram or at www.coaching4gifted.com. Her work with kids is at www.aileenkelleher.com.   

Continuing our top 2019 reruns. This has been one of our top episodes from it's very start! 2019 was our first year of guest speakers, and we took a break for 2020 but had a great run in 2021. I'm super excited about our upcoming 2022 series especially because all of my top choices got back to me right away and agreed to speak. I'm still waiting on a few scheduling clarifications, but I'm pleased to announce that Jan. 22 we will have Leela Sinha, author of "You're Not Too Much" talk about the Intersection of Queerness and Neurodivergence, and Feb 19th we'll have Alexandra Loves talk about Passion vs. Drama! Get on our mailing list for updates and log in information at www.embracingintensity.com. You can support the continued growth of these free calls by joining our community at community.embracingintensity.com or supporting Embracing Intensity on Patreon!

Navigating relationships successfully can be one of the most challenging things we ever do. The intensity and outside-the-box nature of twice-exceptionality (gifted plus disability), adds in a whole new layer of challenge. In this episode, Dr. Melanie Hayes shares both the joys and the hurdles of twice exceptional relationships.

In this episode:

• Common issues in all relationships.
• Additional challenges for twice-exceptional people.
• Meeting our unmet needs in relationships.
• A recipe for twice-exceptional people to connect with who they really are and have fulfilling lives. 

Links:

Embracing Intensity Community

Support Embracing Intensity on Patreon

Continuing our top 2019 reruns. One of my most popular topics is twice exceptionality, especially as it relates to ADHD. This is what prompted my work in sharing stories of twice exceptionality on YouTube and my upcoming 2E Comics. I'll be launching a Kickstarter in the new year to help fund support with illustration so I can make it happen with my limited time!

Coincidentally, this episode features input from Brendan Mahan of ADHD Essentials, and he just shared his most recent episode with me on twice exceptionality this week! Go listen to "Giftedness is Not Achievement w/ Aurora Remember Holtzman on ADHD Essentials!

I've been asked a lot about twice-exceptionality recently and especially on how to identify ADHD when giftedness is also involved.

In this episode:

• Characteristics observed in people who are both gifted and ADHD.
• Characteristics that may be common with giftedness, but are even more extreme when ADHD is thrown in.
• Assessment patterns I've observed with kids with ADHD.

Links:

Embracing Intensity Community

Brendan Mahan's ADHD Essentials

Continuing the tradition of reruns for the month of December, and this month I'll be sharing some of my top episodes from 2019. The top guest episode was on Positive Disintegration w/ Chris Wells, and she has a new podcast on the topic that just came out recently! You can find the discussion recording and her latest talk on Overexitabilities in the Embracing Intensity Community.

Kazmiers Dabrowski was an early proponent of what we now call the neurodiversity movement. He asserted that what was viewed as "neuroses" were not an illness, but in fact a sign of high developmental potential! His theory of Positive Disintegration views the importance of falling apart, or disintegrating, before integrating into a higher whole.

This week, Chris Wells, Director of Qualitative Research at the Gifted Development Center, dives deeper into Dabrowski's life, what led to his theory and how it applies to us in the current day. 

In this episode:

• How Dabrowski's theory relates to the current neurodiversity movement.

• How his own life experiences and trauma impacted his theory.

• The importance of values.

• The three factors of developmental potential.

• How dynamisms, or the forces that drive our actions, serve as a catalyst to higher development.

Links:

Chris' New Podcast on Positive Disintegration!

Finding Treasure In Ruins Blog Post

Embracing Intensity Community

Gifted Development Center

I first met today's guest when he enthusiastically shared some of my animated shorts on 2E experiences. We have followed each other, and I'm a big fan of his advocacy work. Join us to learn more!

Dr. Matt Zakreski is a psychologist who works with gifted and twice-exceptional folks. We have connected over social media, and I'm excited to talk to him today and introduce him to the Embracing Intensity audience.

Show Highlights:

• How Matt is intensely passionate about his experience as a "grown-up gifted kid," helping people through therapy and training, ultimate Frisbee, craft beer, Bruce Springsteen, and comic books
• Why Matt's personal brand of intensity means that he wants things to be "this way," and has a tough time when they aren't; he wants to know expectations ahead of time
• How Matt learned to embrace his giftedness later in his school years and had to find his people in the arts
• Why Matt speaks the language of caring and wants to be around people who care about something
• How even with ADHD and giftedness, Matt appreciates authenticity in himself and others
• In his school experience, Matt realized how to "flex" his gifts in language arts but struggled in STEM classes
• How Matt advises families to learn from his mistakes to "work smart, not hard"
• How Matt felt responsibility and a lot of expectations as the oldest child in his family
• How Matt felt the divide in high school between living in the sports world as an athlete and the arts world 
• How Matt tried to tone himself down and embrace his leadership style of being second in command
• How Matt felt his intensity out of control significantly when he was bullied in 8th grade
• How Matt uses his fire for good by helping kids learn to lift others up instead of tearing others down
• Why getting in touch with his emotional world and being vulnerable have helped Matt harness the power of his intensity
• Personal habits that have helped Matt use his fire positively are taking time daily for long walks, podcasts, and music
• How Matt helps others use their fire by helping them be their best selves
• Why it's energizing to make time for yourself 
• Parting words from Matt: "If you are too much for some people, then those are not your people. Do something for you, and do your version of it. Have the confidence to put your own spin on what self-care looks like for you. We have to value putting ourselves in inspiring and charging situations instead of draining ones. You are worth putting yourself first."

Resources:

www.drmattzakreski.com  

Find Matt on Facebook.

If you or someone you love is a gifted person, you understand that it can complicate many situations in life. It's wonderful to know that empathetic and supportive professionals are dedicating their lives to advocacy for these individuals. Join me to learn more about one such psychotherapist in today's episode!

Gail Post is a clinical psychologist, parenting coach, workshop leader, and writer. In clinical practice for over 35 years, she provides psychotherapy in the Philadelphia area with a focus on the needs of the intellectually and musically gifted. Gail does consultations with educators and psychotherapists and parent coaching throughout the US and Canada. Dr. Post served as a co-chair of a gifted parents' advocacy group when her children were in school, and she continues to advocate through workshops in schools and parenting groups. Her writing related to giftedness includes online articles, several books, chapters, plans for an upcoming book, and a long-standing blog, Gifted Challenges. Gail is just one of the popular gifted writers whose work is included in the book, Perspectives on Giftedness: Sound Advice from Parents and Professionals by GHF Press.

Show Highlights:

• Why Gail is intensely passionate about working with gifted and twice-exceptional teens and adults, advocacy, parenting issues, nature, art, music, and trying to make a difference
• How psychotherapists help clients with mirroring and attunement to create encouragement for the changes people need to make
• Why it's difficult to find psychotherapists who specialize in giftedness
• Why Gail's personal brand of intensity looks like overthinking and being passionate about her work and values
• How Gail grew up feeling things intensely and feeling out of sync with others as she tried to fit in
• How Gail was affected by white privilege and by other issues of the 70s like the Vietnam anti-war movement, women's right, and civil rights
• How Gail had to tone herself down as a shy child when she learned to hide her abilities and talents
• Why Gail got out of control when she felt things and reacted strongly, especially in work settings
• How Gail uses her fire for good in helping people, writing, and utilizing her strengths, and engaging with her interest in the human psyche and behavior
• How Gail harnesses her power by knowing her strengths, pacing herself, and managing stress
• How she helps others by encouraging them to feel safe and accept themselves with empowerment in challenging situations
• Gail's upcoming book, Perspectives in Giftedness, written with several other authors: her articles include "How to Explain Giftedness to Your Child," one about what happens when kids know they are smart by society or school tells them they are not, and one about college planning to teach students and parents what they don't know about the process
• Why we shouldn't tell kids their IQ number because it can harm them or hold them back
• Final words from Gail: "I encourage everyone to work on self-acceptance with who you are because that's the foundation for moving forward in life. It's also important to accept your child's imperfections and all of who they are."

Resources:

Gail Post 

Gifted Challenges 

Connect with Gail on Facebook.

Perspectives on Giftedness: Sound Advice from Parents and Professionals, (A Collection of Essays by GHF Writers)

We are celebrating our 5th anniversary of the Embracing Intensity Podcast by sharing past guests, listeners and community members answer to the question "What does Embracing Intensity mean to me? 

I'm also launching my new website at EmbracingIntensity.com - go check it out and explore! 

The podcast is marking a huge milestone this week as we celebrate our 5th anniversary! In today's show, we go outside the box as we discuss the importance of storytelling when it comes to giftedness, equity, identity, and inclusion. Join us to learn more!

Marc Smolowitz is a previous guest on the show, and I'm thrilled to have him back to talk about one of his projects, The G Word film. Marc is a multi-award-winning director, producer, and executive producer who has been involved in more than 50 independent films. His works have touched viewers on five continents and screened at the world's top-tier film festivals. Marc is currently in post-production on The G Word, a feature-length documentary that aims to be the most comprehensive film ever made on the topics of gifted, talented, and neurodiverse education across the US. The film tells seven stories with different perspectives and asks the urgent equity question, "In the 21st century, who gets to be gifted in America, and why?" The film is poised to premiere in 2022.

Show Highlights:

• How the pandemic has affected Marc's work on The G Word and other projects
• A broad overview of The G Word and the important stories highlighted by the film
• How changemakers are working to make a difference in the gifted and talented community
• How we can use our voices to be allies for the disenfranchised
• How a zip code can be ultra-defining in the resources and opportunities available to people
• How Marc is working to "take the temperature" of people around the country in assessing how giftedness has been affected by the pandemic
• A look at the spirit of G/T/N Awareness Week (gifted, talented, neurodiverse), which is scheduled for October 25-29; this is a FREE five-day slate of virtual programming with a different focus each day. (See Resources to register.)
• Why free and appropriate public education is a social contract--a promise made to all parents for their children
• Why we as advocates and allies cannot quit fighting to make a better civil society for "more of us rather than less of us"
• Why we need a much more communal and collective narrative around giftedness and neurodiversity in our country
• Why The G Word is a mainstream educational film

Resources:

The G Word Film  Find out more about the film, find resources, and sign up for G/T/N Awareness Week.

Find the film on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.

I'm excited to introduce you to today's guest. She's a highly esteemed expert in the area of neuroscience and twice-exceptionality. Join us to learn more!

Dr. Nicole Tetreault is a compassionate author, meditation teacher, and international speaker on neurodiversity, neurodevelopment, creativity, mental health, and wellness. Her book, Insight into a Bright Mind, explores groundbreaking research examining the experiences of unique, creative, and intense brains while advocating for new directions of human diversity and neurodiversity. Nicole is the founder of Awesome Neuroscience and translates the most promising neuroscience and positive psychology for people to live their best life. She is on the faculty at Bridges Graduate School of Cognitive Diversity and Education, and she leads a new generation of meditation practices by fusing novel discoveries in neuroscience with the ancient art of meditation. As the recipient of the Milton Career Exploration Prize from CalTech, she founded the novel nonprofit, Beyond the Cell, a transformative program to rehabilitate incarcerated women through guided meditation, neuroscience, literature, and expressive writing. Nicole believes we have the ability to wire our minds for positive plasticity through compassion and wisdom to live the life we dream.

Show Highlights:

• Why Nicole is intensely passionate about neuroscience, positive psychology, and understanding diversity with compassion
• How Nicole knew from a very young age that she was different than others and greatly affected by social injustices
• How Nicole struggled when her intelligence didn't match up for her in the classroom
• How Nicole spent her adult years rewiring her brain with new patterns, thoughts, stories, and ideas
• What Nicole would tell her former teachers about how they were "missing" each other
• How Nicole experienced stereotyping and white privilege growing up as a blond Caucasian girl in a private school in a part of Los Angeles with a large Latino and Chinese population
• How Nicole had to tone herself down in phases in her life, mostly by learning to hide in middle school and again in grad school
• How Nicole's intensity got out of control in grad school when she felt pressure and anxiety to be perfect
• Nicole's transformational meditation practice to regulate her intensity and emotional intelligence
• The challenge in balancing a good mindfulness practice with what goes on in today's world
• Nicole's take on spiritual bypassing and toxic positivity
• How Nicole uses her fire for good in connecting and partnering with others who are passionate about equality for neurodiverse people
• Nicole's habits that help harness the power of her intensity: giving herself breaks for investigation, creativity, and curiosity; meditation; writing every day in a journal; and partnering with other creatives in the community
• How Nicole helps others use their fire by helping students see their magic and helping other people see their individual gifts
• How Nicole's book: how it came about when she listened to her gut, how it inspires others, and how she wants to change the language about being twice-exceptional

Resources:

Nicole Tetreault 

Find Awesome Neuro on Instagram and Twitter

Insight into a Bright Mind: A Neuroscientist's Personal Stories of Unique Thinking by Nicole A. Tetreault

Connect with me: 2E Connection

Today's solo episode is about a topic that I've thought about for a long time, so I'm happy to bring it to you. We will discuss getting an assessment as a gifted or twice-exceptional adult, so I hope you find it helpful for me to share my thoughts and tips.

Show Highlights:

• Considerations that are universal to all assessment types:
  • If you think you are gifted, you probably are.
  • Make sure the person doing the evaluation has experience with giftedness and twice-exceptionality.
  • Realize that every assessment will have limitations and strengths, and every evaluator will have personal biases.
• Five types of assessments:
  • Diagnostic assessment
    • This will be done with a trained professional who can give a diagnosis. Always look for someone with experience with giftedness and neurodiversity, and ask what tools they use.
  • Psychometric assessment
    • This evaluation can give valuable information about your strengths and weaknesses, and it's very standardized for comparison to others. It has limitations, like false lows and big gaps in highs and lows.
  • Qualitative assessment
    • This evaluation looks beyond just the numbers with things like observations, records, interviews, etc. It gives very useful information.
  • Self-assessment
    • The challenge in this evaluation is that there is a lot of information to take in.
  • Multimodal assessment
    • This kind of evaluation can be any combination of the other four types; it uses a variety of tools all together.
  • Helpful books: (See Resources for more information.) The Power of Difference, The Dyslexic Advantage, The Gifted Adult, and Your Rainforest Mind

Resources:

Connect with me: Aurora Remember 

Find out our upcoming group call on Overexcitability with Chris Wells:  Embracing Intensity 

Check out the following resources:

Cognitive Processing Inventory at LDinfo

Gifted Adult Checklist at Gifted Development 

Paula Prober's Giftedness Checklist from Your Rainforest Mind

Books:

The Power of Different by Gail Saltz, M.D.

The Dyslexic Advantage by Brock and Fernette Eide

The Gifted Adult by Mary-Elaine Jacobsen

Your Rainforest Mind by Paula Prober

In this enriching episode, Aurora hosts Marc, who shares his profound insights on neurodivergent leadership. Marc introduces himself by recounting his journey with ADHD, from his early school years to receiving his diagnosis at 16. This pivotal moment spurred him to embrace and understand his unique brain function, leading to his certification as an ADHD life coach. Marc speaks proudly of founding the Men's ADHD Support Group, a 501c3 nonprofit with over 17,000 members, aiming to empower men with ADHD. He emphasizes the importance of leveraging the inherent strengths of neurodivergent individuals rather than conforming to societal norms. Marc's empathetic and mentorship-driven leadership style, rooted in his personal experiences, serves as a testament to the potential and efficacy of neurodivergent leaders. He addresses challenges such as imposter syndrome, the importance of passion in leadership, and strategies for effective communication within his organization. The discussion also touches on the nuances of the ADHD label, stressing a balanced view that acknowledges both strengths and challenges.

Marc Almodovar Jr. is a neurodiversity advocate and the founder of the ADHD Men's Support Group, a safe space where men with ADHD can connect with others who share common experiences and challenges. Marc's personal experience with ADHD led him to feel isolated and misunderstood, and he recognized the need for a supportive community. He believes that by fostering a sense of belonging and acceptance within the group, men with ADHD can advocate for neurodiversity awareness and acceptance within society as a whole.

As a mental health advocate, Marc recognizes the stigma surrounding mental illness and strives to create a space where men with ADHD can feel safe and supported regardless of their unique ways of thinking and experiencing the world. He is passionate about raising awareness about neurodiversity and helping people understand the diverse ways in which people experience the world. With a balance of authenticity and positivity, Marc inspires others to embrace their unique strengths and connect with others within the neurodiverse community.

• Marc discusses his experience with ADHD, including his diagnosis at 16 and its impact on his life.

• He shares how understanding his brain led him to personal development and becoming an ADHD life coach.

• Founding the Men's ADHD Support Group, a non-profit organization with over 17,000 members.

• People with ADHD often have strong leadership qualities.

• Leveraging strengths rather than conforming to societal norms.

• The importance of mentorship and leading by example.

• Personal and societal challenges neurodivergent leaders face, such as imposter syndrome and self-criticism.

• The value of self-affirmations and support systems in overcoming these challenges.

• Negative feedback and misconceptions about ADHD, especially related to gender.

• The need for safe spaces for men with ADHD and dispelling myths around the condition.

• Giving constructive feedback while staying authentic.

• Using "kind candor" and focusing on team collaboration to improve feedback delivery.

• Resources available for partners of men with ADHD, including support groups and public content.

• The debate around viewing ADHD as a gift versus a disorder.

• Recognizing both the strengths and challenges of ADHD without labeling it strictly as one or the other.

Join our Community & Check out our calendar of upcoming events!

Embracing Intensity Memberships

Join the ADHD Men's Support Group

Follow the ADHD Men's Support Group on Twitter

Follow Marc on Twitter

Today's show lets you listen to our recent group call with Jeff Harry of Rediscover Your Play. Jeff helps us with tips, insights, and interactive exercises to learn more about "Playing With Your Inner Critic." Join us to learn more!

Jeff Harry is a Workplace Play Consultant, International Play Speaker, and Positive Psychology Play Coach. He helps individuals and companies navigate difficult conversations and address their most challenging issues using play and positive psychology. While we spend most of our time pretending to be important, serious grownups, it's when we let go of that facade and just play that the real magic happens. Fully embracing your own nerdy genius gives you the power to make a difference and change lives. Jeff believes that we already have many of the answers we seek, and by simply unleashing our inner child, we can find our purpose and help to create a better world.

Show Highlights:

• An interactive exercise to shed light on how we judge ourselves and need to allow more freedom in our mindset
• The reasons we don't play anymore are because the external noise and our internal negativity bias keep us from playing.
• How leaning into our intuitive mind allows us to work with our inner critic
• How our brain makes connections when in a flow state and allows creative actions
• How to get in flow: relax, figure out what calms you down, quiet everything, and allow yourself to "get bored"
• Your inner critic has a playlist; what does yours say?
• How to identify what your inner critic says to you
• How to identify what your inner critic sounds like and looks like, and why you need to give it a character name
• How to empower your inner child by affirming the opposite of what your inner critic says
• How you can create new neural pathways by using empowering language
• How addressing your inner critic helps deal with the outer critics
• How to spark your inner child
• Why you need to allow feelings to flow through and go
• How to ask, "What is driving my decision?"(The answer SHOULD be play, curiosity, and experimentation!)
• What old BS story are you willing to let go?

Resources:

Rediscover Your Play

Today's guest is truly a multipotentialite with interests spanning gender nonconformity, psychology, healthy eating, photography, and the creative arts. He has discovered ways to embrace his creativity and merge his talents to offer meaningful help to others in their struggles. Join us to learn more!

Greg Halpen is a food blogger and food photographer who created the food blog, Craving the Yum: Eating After Chemo. Chemotherapy can do a number on our palates, leaving our taste buds desensitized and frustrated about what to eat that actually tastes good. Greg gives chemotherapy patients the steps and practical tools to reimagine meals without compromising the YUM factor. Through his food blog, he shares the secrets to preparing meals that are simple, healthy, and extra.

Show Highlights:

• Why Greg is intensely passionate about helping people navigate the frustrating and difficult waters of figuring out what to eat during and after chemo
• How Greg's personal brand of intensity covers multiple areas of creativity: music, theater, food blogging, and photography
• How Greg's childhood trauma spurred him into creative outlets as coping mechanisms
• The difficulty for Greg in not having a support system to help him grow as a creative person
• What Greg wishes he knew back then: "There are people in the world who WILL see you and get you."
• The cultural factors that affected Greg as a gay young man with confusing feelings that couldn't be expressed and realized
• How digging deep into learning about homophobia and hetero-normative thinking helped Greg cope
• How Greg has had to purposely shrink himself down to be smaller because of his insecurity as a person
• How men are affected by sexuality and gender issues very differently than women
• Why Greg has felt out of control when he couldn't harness his creativity amidst the chaos of life
• How Greg uses his fire for good in being of service to others and helping people
• How he learned the important lesson that he isn't at the center of everything
• How therapy, cooking, and helping others with food relationships have helped Greg harness his intensity
• How Greg helps others use their fire by helping them to make small changes and understand "diet culture confusion"
• Up next for Greg: writing a book (the free mini-version is available on his website now!)

Resources:

Craving The Yum 

 Get Greg's FREE mini-cookbook, Eating After Chemo!

Visit our website to learn more about the Embracing Intensity community and events

Visit our new platform with resources and events for the 2E community

I didn't promote last week's episode very much because I got super deep into the rabbit hole on a new project that really. Kind of pulls together a lot of the little projects that I've been doing in this past year.

It's called 2E Connection, and it's a directory for twice exceptional folks to share, explore and find support!

In this episode:

• What inspired me to create 2E Connection
• A sneak peak at some of the content so far
• How you can support keeping this free site accessible AND sustainable

Links:

2E Connection

Embracing Intensity Community

Harnessing the Power of Your Intensity Workbook

My guest today was diagnosed with ADHD and twice-exceptionality later in life. We have connected through TikTok and are learning a lot from each other. He demonstrates kind accountability in his TikTok posts and shows authenticity in his longer YouTube posts that I greatly appreciate. Join us to hear his unique perspective.

Sean Szolek-Van Valkenburgh grew up in Indiana surrounded by orchestral, classical, and contemporary music. His formal musical education began at age 7 when he started studying piano and performing in choral ensembles. As his musical education progressed, he noticed that he had the unusual gift of chromesthesia. Through TikTok, Sean avidly posts about being a professional musician and artist and connects with over 680,000 followers; he refers to them as "kings, queens, and monarchs." He hopes to provide a safe, inclusive, and entertaining platform that prioritizes genuine content creation and critical thought.

Show Highlights:

• What is chromesthesia? Multiple senses cross in the brain, making it possible to hear music and also see it in colors, textures, and patterns
• How Sean uses TikTok to share music and chromesthesia
• Why Sean is intensely passionate about educating and helping people see the world in different ways, especially the "lightbulb" moments of learning
• How Sean's personal brand of intensity cuts through to the truth and presents it to people, shining light on obscure areas in the legal system
• As Sean grew up, he was very adamant about certain fixations, like dominoes and Jenga; his twice-exceptionality was masked by his ability to study and learn, but his ADHD was overlooked for a time
• How his ADHD impacted the way he planned and self-regulated himself and caused imbalance in his mental health
• How Sean was socially isolated with a few superficial friendships and focused on his hyperfixations
• How Sean had to learn in college to apply himself to social constructs
• The cultural factors that affected Sean as he and his sister were black twins adopted by white parents, and how this helped inform his cultural understanding
• How Sean had to tone himself down as a counselor at a fine arts summer camp and learn how to expend his energy in appropriate ways
• Why Sean depends on established routines and structures that work with his ADHD
• How Sean has gotten out of control on social media in exposing the truth and presenting the facts, sometimes finding it difficult to strike a balance
• How Sean uses his fire for good in helping people channel their fire into artistic expression in different ways
• How Sean harnesses the power of his intensity through self-regulation and recognizing the power behind his personality and neurodivergence
• How Sean recognized his twice-exceptionality
• How Sean has learned to take time for himself and take mental inventory with introspection
• Sean's advice: "Be educated and aware when you speak about ADHD. Know your abilities and disabilities. It's a long journey. Find your authentic self and work on defining yourself."
• How to ask for accommodations
• What Sean is working on for the future

Resources:

Find Sean on Instagram:  @seanszolekvanvalkenburgh

Find Sean on Twitter:  @SeanSzolek

Find Sean on TikTok:  @seansvv