Sam speaks with Shakira Alleyne, an autistic and ADHD musician and filmmaker, about their creative journey and the challenges neurodivergent musicians face. They discuss the inspiration behind Shakira’s film Neurodiversity in Music and the barriers uncovered during its making. The conversation digs into what makes creative spaces truly inclusive, how mental health and neurodivergence intersect, and why self-awareness is vital for artistic growth. An inspiring discussion for creatives, advocates, and anyone interested in fostering inclusion.

00:00 coming up in this episode

00:38 intro to season two and this episode 

04:08 how did the film 'neurodiversity in music' come about?

09:45 challenges becoming a neurodivergent musician 

11:29 shakira allenyne - 'jump, i insist'

13:02 shakira on their journey as a musician

23:20 shakira allenyne - 'unhealthy substitute'

24:50 the process of making and experimenting

28:19 initiatives that cater to the needs of individuals

31:49 ideas for creating inclusive environments 

34:14 shakira allenyne - 'breathing

37:33 work struggles being neurodivergent

41:35 how diagnosis / self-awareness helped shakira

44:20 asking for help and knowing what help is available

48:37 intersection of mental health and neurodivergence

34:14 shakira allenyne - 'lost and delirious'

52:58 shakira's current relationship with music

55:57 sam's episode outro

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