Discover how to create technology that supports neurodivergent individuals. Dr. Julie Eshleman shares insights on disability inclusion and assistive tech.

In a world where technology increasingly shapes our daily lives, how can we ensure it serves everyone, particularly those with neurodivergent conditions? This question is at the heart of Dr. Julie Eshleman's research and experience. In this episode, we'll explore her insights on designing technology that truly supports neurodivergent individuals, examining the intersection of lived experience and academic research.

About Dr. Julie Eshleman

Dr. Julie Eshleman is a postdoctoral research fellow at Georgia Tech’s Center for Inclusive Design and Innovation and a Georgia LEND fellow at Georgia State University. With over 20 years of experience in education, behavior analysis, and organizational psychology. Her PhD work at the University of Stirling focused on how disabled adults utilize technology to foster independence in care settings, and she has presented her findings at prestigious forums like the United Nations.

www.drjuliedisabilityinclusion.com

https://www.linkedin.com/in/julieeshlemanatresearcher/

In this episode of the NeuroSec podcast, host Nathan Chung speaks with Kathy Long, CEO of Nixit AI, about the intersection of artificial intelligence and neurodiversity. Kathy shares her personal journey as a neurodivergent individual and a mother of neurodivergent children, highlighting the challenges faced by this community. Nixit AI aims to create tools that empower neurodivergent individuals by focusing on their strengths rather than deficits. The conversation delves into the ethical considerations of AI, the importance of user autonomy, and the need for supportive environments in education and parenting. Kathy emphasizes the significance of building technology with neurodivergent users and offers practical advice for both individuals and educators.

Summary

In this episode of the NeuroSec podcast, host Nathan Chung discusses the current challenges faced by the disability and neurodiversity communities in the U.S from 2025. He honors influential figures who have shaped the community and expresses hope for the future.

Takeaways

1. The disability community is facing significant challenges in 2026.
2. Support and accommodations for disabled individuals are diminishing.
3. Many organizations have reduced their diversity initiatives.
4. The economy's struggles have led to increased layoffs.
5. AI advancements are contributing to job losses in the community.
6. Honoring influential figures is crucial for community resilience.
7. Accessibility is gaining attention in major tech events.
8. NeuroSec aims to create actionable change in the community.
9. Upcoming events like the Davos Neurodiversity Summit are promising.
10. Hope is essential for the future of disability advocacy.

Second episode of the new season where I talk with Saman Fatima about working in cyber and her story of success.

First episode of the new season where I talk with Aastha Sahni about working in cyber and her story of success.

Join us with special guest Amanda Hebert Hughes. We discussed her amazing artwork and her life as an Autistic artist. She is a native New Yorker, is an emergent artist located in the Charlotte, North Carolina area. Highly attentive to her surroundings, she paints her impressions and feelings in a thought-provoking and dynamic way. Amanda Hebert Hughes is open about being an adult on the Autism Spectrum and raises awareness to de-stigmatize Autism through her art.

Session is also available on YouTube with captions: https://youtu.be/rxXe8H02H5s

Special guest Shawn Smith. We discuss his journey as an entrepreneur, whether or not it is a good career for people who are Neurodivergent, and his incredible story coming back from failure. 

Special guest, Sreenidhi Vedartham. We discuss coping with Neurodiverse conditions, how Neurodiversity is viewed in India, Embark Women, Echo Space, and thoughts on returning to the office.

A Tourettes Journey with Peter Zhao. We discuss Tourette's Syndrome, the impact of Asian culture on mental health, talking about Neurodiversity on podcasts, and rap music. 

In this episode, we discussed Autism in Asian culture, parenting a child with Autism, Asian mental health, and the documentary Laundromat.