🎙️ The Joy of Neurodiversity – Episode 04 More Than One Story: The Intersectional Realities of Neurodivergent Lives with Dane Ray

In this episode of The Joy of Neurodiversity, host Joy Buckner sits down with Dane Ray, a dedicated affirming therapist and advocate with over two decades of experience in education, prevention, and public health. Dane brings a wealth of knowledge to the conversation, exploring the complexities of neurodivergence—with a special focus on ADHD, visual perception deficiency, and the critical need for inclusivity in mental health care.

Dane shares a personal journey navigating neurodivergence, shedding light on the challenges, strengths, and lived experiences of those with ADHD—particularly the lesser-discussed aspects of ADHD without hyperactivity. Together, the conversation dives into practical strategies for managing overwhelm, the role of self-care, and how breath work and journaling can serve as powerful tools for regulation.

Beyond personal strategies, this episode highlights the need for systemic change in mental health services. Through work with D&A Consulting Services, Dane is dedicated to bridging gaps in support, advocating for cultural humility in therapy, and fostering greater community engagement for neurodivergent individuals.

What to Expect in This Episode:

✅ How neurodivergence is more than just a diagnosis—it’s a lived experience

✅ The realities of ADHD without hyperactivity and its impact on cognitive overload

✅ Why overwhelm can manifest in different ways and how to manage it

✅ Creating a self-care menu to reduce stress and improve daily functioning

✅ How breath work and journaling can support emotional regulation

✅ The importance of civic engagement in advocating for neurodivergent needs

✅ Why cultural humility is essential in mental health care

✅ How systemic change and community involvement can drive inclusivity in mental health services

🎧 Listening in but want to see our faces? 👀✨ Head over to The Joy of Neurodiversity YouTube channel, where you can watch the full episode and see the conversation come to life! Subscribe and join us there!

🔗 https://www.youtube.com/@TheJoyofNeurodiversity

Connect with Dane Ray

📞 Phone: 240.803.3263

 💼 LinkedI

📸 Instagram

🌐 BlueSky

📚 Resources Mentioned in This Episode:

⏳ The Pomodoro Technique – Forbes

🎥 Breathwork for Regulation – YouTube

📖 Bessel van der Kolk – Big Think

🗳️ Elected Leadership Pipeline – ELECTED DC

⚖️ Disclaimer: 

The views and experiences shared in this podcast are personal and for informational and entertainment purposes only. They do not constitute professional advice. Always seek guidance from a qualified expert for your specific needs.

The Joy of Neurodiversity is a space for open dialogue and shared stories—take what resonates and explore further with care. 💛

🎧 Tune in now and join the conversation on redefining neurodivergence and mental health advocacy! 🚀

#TheJoyOfNeurodiversity #Podcast #ADHDAwareness #MentalHealthAdvocacy #Neurodivergence #Inclusivity #SelfCare #CommunityEngagement #BreakingBarriers