How a young author’s journey with neurodiversity can help us reshape the way we think about leadership and inclusion.

In this inspiring Voices of Leadership episode, Dave sits down with Daisy Merle, a young neurodiverse author and advocate, to explore what it really means to see the world differently. Daisy shares her journey of growing up with dyslexia, autism, and ADHD, and how these experiences inspired her book Pixo Escapes, a story about a neurodivergent Jack Russell terrier and his adventures.

Through her candid reflections, Daisy highlights both the challenges and the unique strengths that neurodivergent individuals bring to friendships, classrooms, and workplaces. She discusses what leaders can do to support neurodiverse colleagues, why compassion and adaptability are vital traits, and how her own persistence and creativity drive her forward.

This is a conversation that challenges stereotypes, normalises difference, and invites leaders to adopt a more inclusive mindset. Whether you’re a parent, educator, or business leader, Daisy’s message of acceptance and resilience offers valuable lessons for all.

Key Talking Points:

• Daisy’s early experiences with dyslexia, ADHD, and autism, and how they shaped her view of herself and the world around her.
• The inspiration behind Pixo Escapes and why she chose to tell her story through Pixo and his friends.
• The importance of recognising neurodiversity as unique to each individual, “If you know one person with neurodiversity, you know one person.”
• How compassion and adaptability in leadership unlock loyalty, creativity, and resilience.
• Why many entrepreneurs are neurodivergent and how their traits bring innovation.
• Daisy’s vision for bringing her books into schools to raise awareness and empathy in children, in education professionals and in parents.
• Practical takeaways for leaders: focus on individual strengths, offer patience, and normalise difference.