I Must Be BUG'N

Episode Transcript (provided by Riverside - forgive any errors): https://link.sheldongayisbugn.com/s3e15transcript

Follow I Must Be BUGN on IG @sheldongayisbugn

In Part 1 of this episode, I chop it up with Dr. Derek Porter about how burnout is a systems issue and not a personal failure. We discuss organizational inequities and how they impact schools and companies as a whole, especially neurodivergent and other marginalized people. We begin to discuss the necessary elements of systemic change, human connection, and understanding marginalized experiences to create healthier, more sustainable environments.

• The different manifestations of burnout: quiet quitting, crashing, imploding, and imploding
• Maslach’s burnout framework: emotional exhaustion, depersonalization, and reduced efficacy
• The systemic nature of burnout and the importance of designing better systems
• Neurodivergence and neurotypicality: evolving definitions and social implications
• The conflation of speed and intelligence, and misconceptions about neurodivergence
• Impact of masking, code switching, and fear of visibility among marginalized communities
• Unique challenges faced by BIPOC and marginalized individuals regarding surveillance, invisibility, and extra responsibilities
• The influence of organizational culture, soft skills investment, and leadership alignment
• Decision fatigue in schools: the high volume of daily judgments by teachers and staff
• The "Canary Code" analogy for identifying early signs of systemic distress
• The importance of human connection and authenticity in overcoming systemic oppression
• Consequences of neglecting systemic issues: attrition, reduced quality, and perpetuation of inequity

• Connect with him on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/derek-porter/
• Check out his work on Linktree: https://linktr.ee/drderekporter
• Email him at [email protected]

• Maslach Burnout Inventory — Framework for understanding burnout
• The Canary Code — Book illustrating early warning signs in systems
• Carol Dweck’s work on Grit — Understanding resilience and perseverance in the context of burnout and systemics

• Hire me to speak or as your personal gifted or neurodivergent discovery coach!: https://sheldongayisbugn.com
• Free list of Therapists for Melanated and Marginalized Groups: https://sheldongayisbugn.com/#resources
• Free GroupMe Community for Talented and Gifted adults: https://groupme.com/join_group/108040800/igLaxqNG
• ND Connect - Online community for neurodivergent people: ndconnect.app
• Umbrella ND - Non-profit focused on neurodivergent advocacy: https://umbrellaopensdoors.org/resources

burnout, neurodivergence, employee engagement, mental health, workplace culture, self-care, collective care, emotional well-being, productivity, systems design burnout culture, human connection, education challenges, decision fatigue, BIPOC educators, community needs, teacher retention, wellness days, equity and inclusion, systemic issues education, teacher shortages, student experience, teacher burnout, gender dynamics, neurodivergence, classroom strategies, confidence building, inclusive education, educational solutionsdfd

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

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episode Transcript (provided by Riverside - forgive any errors): https://docs.google.com/document/d/1EwLU4aj5I7ZhLZqQ4hJS6j8YDerRxm9CPKNGxrMpqP8/edit?usp=sharing

Follow I Must Be BUGN on IG @sheldongayisbugn

In this short reflection episode, I talk about a few key takeaways from my recent episode with Mark Travis Rivera. I discuss the importance of redefining manhood, especially in light of the recent domestic violence tragedies. I also discuss why we should get more comfortable with the word disability and how Mark never let other's preconceptions limit him. I also reflect on the power of storytelling and why I support his push for everyone to share their authentic story. Check out the full episode (Season 3 - Episode 13) for the complete experience.

• Manhood isn't limited to what a typical "macho man" might do
• We all will experience disability, even if temporary, at some point in our lives. It's not a dirty word.
• Storytelling is a fundamentally human experience that is crucial to finding our community

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

• KevOnStage Speaks about Leading with Love and LGBTQ support: https://www.instagram.com/reel/DXUX4R5jafk/
• Hire me to speak or as your personal coach! sheldongayisbugn.com
• Database of Therapists for Black and other Marginalized Groups: https://link.sheldongayisbugn.com/therapistsformypeople
• Free GroupMe Community for Talented and Gifted adults: https://groupme.com/join_group/108040800/igLaxqNG
• ND Connect - Online community for neurodivergent people: ndconnect.app
• Umbrella ND - Non-profit focused on neurodivergent advocacy: https://umbrellaopensdoors.org/

disability, manhood, storytelling, diagnosis, authenticity, self-regulation, self-control, intelligence, neurodiversity, accommodations, mental health, personal growth, belonging

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

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episode Transcript (provided by Riverside - forgive any errors): https://link.sheldongayisbugn.com/s3e13transcript

Follow I Must Be BUGN on IG @sheldongayisbugn

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

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

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

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

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

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

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episode Transcript (provided by Riverside - forgive any errors): https://docs.google.com/document/d/106LAoMc6XM9rF8ncpNwK_CsxtHZL9PCLkJRXeeebH3Q/edit?usp=sharing

Follow I Must Be BUGN on IG @sheldongayisbugn

In this short reflection episode, I talk about a few key reflections on my recent episode with Aurora Remember. I discuss the importance of understanding yourself, particularly via diagnosis and self-acceptance. The power of authenticity can change our jobs and our relationships. I also highlight her push for us to lean into self-regulation rather than self-control. Lastly, I give my thoughts on why intelligence can't be expected to follow the rules or align with intuition. Check out the full episode (Season 3 - Episode 11) for the complete experience.

• Authenticity is risky but rewarding
• We need to quiet the voice that tells us we need to be controlled rather than loved
• Intelligence is complex and not hierarchical

• @auroraremember on most platforms (embracing intensity on YouTube and IG)
• Embracing Intensity Podcast - https://embracingintensity.com/media/podcast/
• Aurora's Website - https://embracingintensity.com

• Hire me to speak or as your personal coach! sheldongayisbugn.com
• Database of Therapists for Black and other Marginalized Groups: https://link.sheldongayisbugn.com/therapistsformypeople
• Free GroupMe Community for Talented and Gifted adults: https://groupme.com/join_group/108040800/igLaxqNG
• ND Connect - Online community for neurodivergent people: ndconnect.app
• Umbrella ND - Non-profit focused on neurodivergent advocacy: https://umbrellaopensdoors.org/

diagnosis, authenticity, self-regulation, self-control, intelligence, neurodiversity, accommodations, mental health, personal growth, belonging

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

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episode Transcript (provided by Riverside - forgive any errors): https://docs.google.com/document/d/1yv2NuYvVBDFsNlFQ3YP531x65wKnWuk3_DjkPR2SjI0/edit?usp=sharing

Follow I Must Be BUGN on IG @sheldongayisbugn

In this episode, I speak with Aurora Remember, a school psychologist and host of the "Embracing Intensity" podcast. We discuss the concept of neurodivergence, the difference between self-control and self-regulation, burnout and how to recover from it as well as how to improve the school experience for neurodivergent learners, especially twice-exceptional ones and those with disabilities. Aurora shares her personal journey of embracing her intensity and the challenges faced by gifted individuals. We go on to discuss the importance of creatively engaging the brain in learning, the challenges parents face in modern times, and the need for a shift in educational approaches to accommodate diverse learning styles. She also dispels the myth that "higher-level thinking" is hierarchical. Aurora shares insights that apply to everything from schools, friendships and even dating.

• Intensity can overwhelm some but it can also be a strength.
• Neurodivergence includes a range of experiences that deviate from the norm.
• Self-regulation is more effective than self-control for managing energy.
• Authenticity is crucial for personal and professional fulfillment.
• Schools often overlook the internal struggles of neurodivergent students.
• Challenging preconceived notions in education can lead to better outcomes.
• Higher-level thinking is not always hierarchical, especially with neurodivergent minds.
• Creative problem-solving is essential for engaging gifted students.
• "Basic" tasks can be difficult for neurodivergent individuals.
• It's important to find joy in everyday tasks.
• Ditching all-or-nothing thinking can lead to better outcomes.

• @auroraremember on most platforms (embracing intensity on YouTube and IG)
• Embracing Intensity Podcast - https://embracingintensity.com/media/podcast/
• Aurora's Website - https://embracingintensity.com

• Hire me to speak or as your personal gifted or neurodivergent discovery coach!: https://sheldongayisbugn.com
• Free list of Therapists for Melanated and Marginalized Groups: https://sheldongayisbugn.com/#resources
• Free GroupMe Community for Talented and Gifted adults: https://groupme.com/join_group/108040800/igLaxqNG
• ND Connect - Online community for neurodivergent people: ndconnect.app
• Umbrella ND - Non-profit focused on neurodivergent advocacy: https://umbrellaopensdoors.org/resources

neurodivergence, burnout recovery, energy management, giftedness, self-regulation, education, authenticity, creativity, school psychology, embracing intensity, neurodiversity, twice-exceptional, education, parenting, learning challenges, self-regulation, higher-level thinking, emotional intelligence, energy balance, communication

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

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episode Transcript (provided by Riverside - forgive any errors): https://docs.google.com/document/d/1zgSP6jBArpGXJ0hDdJkjdQls-w4rb3aUKgXV2aT8mGo/edit?usp=sharing

Follow I Must Be BUGN on IG @sheldongayisbugn

In this short, reflection episode, I talk about a few key reflections on my recent episode with Shakela Strawberry. I discuss the importance of adult's taking responsibility for educating our youth, including neurodivergent children. I speak about how the education industry can be a powerful arm of the oppressive systems we're fighting against. I also discuss the relevancy to recent developments regarding the US Department of Education's attempts to remove DEI initiatives. I also urge us to continue to imagine new educational paradigms that promote freedom and peace for all.

• What the adults in schools need for success
• Why we need to pay attention to how our schools are structured
• The impact of the Education Department's "Dear Colleague Letter" defeat regarding DEI

• A.D.E. website: www.audacitytodaretoeducate.org
• Follow A.D.E. on Instagram: a_d_e_lab
• A.D.E. on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/audacitytodaretoeducate/
• Email Shakela: [email protected]
• Hire me to speak or as your personal coach! sheldongayisbugn.com
• Free GroupMe Community for Talented and Gifted adults: https://groupme.com/join_group/108040800/igLaxqNG
• ND Connect - Online community for neurodivergent people: ndconnect.app
• Umbrella ND - Non-profit focused on neurodivergent advocacy: https://umbrellaopensdoors.org/

dear colleague, neurodivergence, advocacy, education, minority youth, parenting, school-to-prison pipeline, accommodations, giftedness, diversity, community

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

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episode Transcript (provided by Riverside - forgive any errors): https://docs.google.com/document/d/1RsG6zlv0jLTM7nK1CIR3VgjK4W57S5qVnxmlCVmqaMA/edit?usp=sharing

Follow I Must Be BUGN on IG @sheldongayisbugn

In this episode, I chat with Shakela Strawberry, a mom, special-education teacher and non-profit founder who is a dedicated advocate for neurodivergent people. Shakela shares her journey from being a mother to an advocate and educator, highlighting the challenges faced by neurodivergent children in the education system. She discusses her nonprofit, A.D.E. (Audacity to Dare to Educate), which empowers neurodivergent folks. We talk about the complexities of mental health, especially as it relates to Black and otherwise melanated youth. She also speaks to the importance of having empathy as a parent and an educator. This leads to discussions such as how depression often manifests as anger in young Black men. Shakela shares alarming statistics about neurodivergence in education and its relationship to juvenile detention. She also discusses the importance of recognizing the strengths of neurodivergent people and the historical context of education for marginalized communities. This is a really good episode for parents, educators and those who felt the school system treated them more like a problem to fix than a human whose needs deserved support.

• Neurodivergence is often misunderstood and misrepresented in education.
• Labels can be harmful and do not define a person's abilities.
• Neurodivergent individuals have unique strengths that should be embraced.
• Parents can educate themselves on how to support their neurodivergent children.
• Understanding the root cause of behavior is crucial for effective parenting.
• Community education is essential for understanding neurodivergence.
• Empathy can be cultivated through experiential learning and simulations.
• The school-to-prison pipeline disproportionately affects neurodivergent youth.
• Accommodations like audiobooks can significantly aid learning for neurodivergent students.
• A world where people are free to accept themselves without stigma is crucial to empowering neurodivergent individuals.

• A.D.E. website: www.audacitytodaretoeducate.org
• Follow A.D.E. on Instagram: a_d_e_lab
• A.D.E. on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/audacitytodaretoeducate/
• Email Shakela: [email protected]
• Hire me to speak or as your personal coach! sheldongayisbugn.com
• Free GroupMe Community for Talented and Gifted adults: https://groupme.com/join_group/108040800/igLaxqNG
• ND Connect - Online community for neurodivergent people: ndconnect.app
• Umbrella ND - Non-profit focused on neurodivergent advocacy: https://umbrellaopensdoors.org/

neurodivergence, advocacy, education, dyslexia, special education, creative learning, equity, awareness, empowerment, depression, minority youth, parenting, school-to-prison pipeline, accommodations, giftedness, diversity, community

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

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episode Transcript (provided by Riverside - forgive any errors): https://docs.google.com/document/d/1sQCSGiPcKZn1fOb1yXof3Bxcbg9BM-RcmREiqR6E2W0/edit?usp=sharing

Follow I Must Be BUGN on IG @sheldongayisbugn

In this episode, I speak with Michael Asaku-Yeboah, a vocational therapist and inclusion consultant. This is a DEEP conversation where we discuss things like the importance of understanding one's neurodivergence, what it's like for neurodivergent people in corporate spaces and how he's doing work to help Fortune 100 companies and others create spaces where all minds can thrive. Michael has seen the qualitative and quantitative impacts of his work, repeatedly demonstrating that this work isn't just about feeling good, it can save and earn companies significant amounts of money and other resources. Michael is making an impact not only in the US but also in his home country of Ghana where many of the schools are also suffering from colonized curriculum. This is a conversation about self-discovery and acceptance as well as how companies can avoid unwittingly creating barriers to the very culture and goals they say they desire.

• We should be questioning our perceptions of intelligence, i.e. favoring memorization over demonstrated understanding.
• Diagnosis and self-identification of neurodivergence can be life changing
• Neurodivergent individuals often face unique challenges in corporate settings.
• Inclusive education can help change narratives around learning. Neurodivergent individuals can be highly intelligent but may struggle with traditional learning methods.
• Even parents can be unaware that their children may be neurodivergent.
• There's substantial data that demonstrates that supporting neurodivergent people has material financial benefits for companies
• Coaching can help neurodivergent individuals navigate workplace challenges effectively.
• Neurodivergent individuals often contribute significantly to innovation and creativity.
• Intersectionality plays a crucial role in understanding neurodivergent experiences.
• Complex trauma can significantly impact neurodivergent individuals' behaviors.

• Connect with Michael Asaku-Yeboah: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maykoi/
• Eisenhower Matrix: https://asana.com/resources/eisenhower-matrix
• NeuroNest (Under Construction as of Feb 2026): https://neurovocafrica.com/neuro/
• Hire me to speak or as your personal coach! sheldongayisbugn.com
• Free GroupMe Community for Talented and Gifted adults: https://groupme.com/join_group/108040800/igLaxqNG
• ND Connect - Online community for neurodivergent people: ndconnect.app
• Umbrella ND - Non-profit focused on neurodivergent advocacy: https://umbrellaopensdoors.org/

neurodiversity, inclusion, disability management, coaching, education, corporate culture, Ghana, mental health, intersectionality, workplace inclusion, perfectionism, empathy

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

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episode Transcript (provided by Riverside - forgive any errors): https://docs.google.com/document/d/17YKf0QfVIfN03XpHUCXwUSNWbvFqQUSKN2SLM6Pkm9I/edit?usp=sharing

Follow I Must Be BUGN on IG @sheldongayisbugn

Summary:

In my latest conversation, I get the honor of chatting with David Hester, PhD again. Per usual, we talked about just about EVERYTHING (haha). David shares his thoughts on neuroplasticity (old dogs CAN learn new tricks), the promise and dangers of artificial intelligence and the need for ethical tech, perceptions of neurodivergence that aren't based in deficits and a future where diverse perspectives are valued and integrated into decision-making processes. We also explore the intersection of technology, masculinity, and emotional intelligence. He shares the ways in which he's looking to impact a billion people through his work at LifeGuides, MusingU and more. We simply let our minds and hearts delve into every topic as if there are no boundaries...because there really aren't when you've got a mind like Dave's. The dialogue emphasizes the importance of community, healthy relationships, and the being free of binary thinking, while also addressing the future of humanity in a technologically advanced world.

Key Points:

• Neuroplasticity allows for continuous learning and adaptation.
• We must demand equitable access to technology for all communities.
• Neurodivergent people can possess unique perspectives that can drive innovation.
• Understanding our own narratives can shift perceptions of self.
• Representation of Black men in various spaces is crucial.
• Artificial intelligence is being used to do things like implant ideas in dreams
• Creating inclusive and engaging work environments requires ongoing training.
• Masculinity as a binary isn't a global belief-system

Helpful Links:

• Connect with David Hester, PhD: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidhesterjr/
• The Union - Coworking and Collaborating Space (Seattle): https://www.theunion.io/
• Dr. Tracy Marks YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/drtraceymarks

Keywords:

neuroplasticity, neurodivergence, giftedness, organizational growth, representation, equity, technology access, personal growth, societal norms, community, technology, social impact, AI, neuroscience, ethical AI, corporate culture, technology, masculinity, emotional intelligence, gender fluidity, community, relationships

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

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episode Transcript (provided by Riverside - forgive any errors): https://docs.google.com/document/d/1Whi98bPoD7JApOXYX5IkbaMbD9XzSRSBd7UdwhKwKfs/edit?usp=sharing

Follow I Must Be BUGN on IG @sheldongayisbugn

Summary:

In this episode, I reflect on some of my favorite episodes that are good to review during this time of rest and restoration. Listen to hear how you can help 2026 be a transformative year for me.

Suggested copy for introducing me to your network:

• Hi [Insert Name] — I wanted to put Sheldon Gay on your radar. He’s doing thoughtful and timely work around giftedness, neurodivergence, leadership, and burnout, especially for Black and other traditionally marginalized groups. I immediately thought of your team when I learned he’s available for speaking. Given the challenges many teams are facing right now with regard to inclusion efforts as well as recruiting and retaining top talent, I thought his perspective could be especially helpful. If it’s useful, I’d encourage you to reach out and connect with him directly. Here's his website: sheldongayisbugn.com.

Helpful Links:

• Season 1 Episode 2 "Why Are We BUG'N?": https://open.spotify.com/episode/4suruvJEx1sdqw1kdOEKUz?si=zL8mWVCpScWUjPcLW5n8Eg
• Season 3 Episode 2 "Why Anger is Necessary for Joy": https://open.spotify.com/episode/1OCMXHZWRC2iOsau77e3Jv?si=i01SJ3yQTmWUP_goL_kZXQ
• Season 3 Episode 1 "Is it a Neurodivergent Excuse or Reason?": https://open.spotify.com/episode/0lOLLlDt2JzivxUie0o3gn?si=t0BXb7XpQri7_3t3TjnrKQ
• Season 2 Episode 11 "It Must Be My MEgo": https://open.spotify.com/episode/1CoIkccfPzeLfxaLkZ6L1S?si=mPDBBV5jTW6d26uaAleXhg
• Season 3 Episode 3 "Mom...I'm Autistic": https://open.spotify.com/episode/7C8HTURxc6bL0eiVOY2DTJ?si=FFc7FGPCRRiLbarRpfbaVg
• Season 2 Episode 7 "It Must Be Good Grief": https://open.spotify.com/episode/6HAw4IM2SWSPlEgnQTzUYJ?si=61d3b4ef53084e4e
• Cosmic Cheer Squad Guest Interview "Compassionate Mirrors": https://open.spotify.com/episode/5WV81qYuymV9wVTyZ5UT8g?si=QgPSG3ZkTv-D0BHs29jD8Q
• Hire me to speak or as your personal coach! sheldongayisbugn.com
• Free GroupMe Community for Talented and Gifted adults: https://groupme.com/join_group/108040800/igLaxqNG
• ND Connect - Online community for neurodivergent people: ndconnect.app
• Umbrella ND - Non-profit focused on neurodivergent advocacy: https://umbrellaopensdoors.org/
• Submit your Questions or Misunderstood Insights: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSelanG1R71TcGjzHIyVW1f8fkE7MaWx-D2j7OtHsIGrdQhi_Q/viewform?usp=sf_link

Keywords: podcast, reflection, support, neurodivergent, community, personal growth, Black men, mental health, grief, joy

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

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.