Kassandra Clemens shares her personal journey with ADHD and autism, discussing the challenges she faced and the late diagnosis she received. She highlights the importance of understanding and managing the high-energy states associated with ADHD and the role of meditation in finding inner peace. Cassandra also discusses her plans for the future, including creating courses and collaborating with others to support neurodivergent individuals. She reflects on the progress and setbacks in society's acceptance of neurodiversity. The conversation explores the need to change the paradigm around neurodivergence and challenges the perception of neurodivergent individuals as having disorders. It highlights the importance of creating a supportive environment in the workplace for neurodivergent individuals and the potential for neurodivergent thinking to drive progress. The conversation also discusses the limitations of the current education system in accommodating neurodivergent students and suggests alternative approaches. The concept of unmasking and being true to oneself is explored, along with the question of whether one would choose a different path if given the opportunity.

Takeaways

Late diagnosis of ADHD is a common theme, with many individuals not realizing they have ADHD until later in life.

Managing the high-energy states associated with ADHD is crucial for overall well-being and mental health.

Meditation and mindfulness can be effective tools for finding inner peace and controlling racing thoughts.

Society's attitude towards neurodiversity varies, with progress being made in some areas but setbacks occurring in others.

Chapters

00:00:00 Introduction and Background

00:04:19 Late Diagnosis of ADHD

00:08:32 Combined Autism and ADHD

00:13:19 Working in the University Environment

00:19:20 Self-Medication with Food

00:22:04 Medication and Controlling the High

00:27:04 Meditation and Mindfulness

00:34:18 Future Plans and Riding the Dragon

00:46:30 Society's Attitude Towards Neurodiversity

00:49:44 Changing the Paradigm

00:51:11 Perception of Neurodivergence

00:52:09 Neurodivergence in the Workplace

00:53:33 Neurodivergence and Progress

00:54:31 Language and Difference

00:56:25 The Power of Neurodivergent Thinking

00:57:22 Education and Difference

00:58:42 Alternative Education Approaches

00:59:44 The Summerhill School

01:02: Neurodivergence as a Unit

01:03: Being Open about Neurodivergence

01:06: Choosing a Different Path