Square Pegs

Today, Arash Zaghi chats with Sheldon Gay, the host of the "I Must Be BUG’N" podcast. Sheldon shares his journey as a neurodivergent individual, reflecting on childhood experiences, educational challenges, and the importance of advocacy. He discusses how his unique learning needs were often misunderstood, highlighting the critical role of supportive environments and the value of diverse thinking in STEM fields. They also discuss the intersectionality of being Black, gifted, and neurodivergent, addressing systemic biases and the importance of community and self-acceptance. Sheldon emphasizes the need for educational reform to better accommodate non-traditional learners and calls for a holistic approach to learning that recognizes and nurtures diverse cognitive abilities.

Find Sheldon’s podcast on Instagram here https://www.instagram.com/imustbebugn and on Apple Podcasts at https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/i-must-be-bugn/id1712196305. You can also find I Must Be BUG’N wherever you get your podcasts.

Square Pegs Podcast is a series of intimate conversations about navigating life and learning within the neurodiverse community, hosted by Dr. Arash Zaghi, Professor at the University of Connecticut School of Engineering. In each episode, we talk to neurodiverse students and experts in the field of neurodiversity.

Send feedback about Square Pegs to [email protected] or find us at squarepegspodcast.com.

00:42 Meet Sheldon Gay: host of "I Must Be BUG'N" podcast

Dr. Dennis Grubb, an expert in environmental engineering and neurodiverse individual with ADHD and dyslexia, shares his journey and insights. He emphasizes the importance of creativity and resilience in overcoming educational challenges and excelling in his career. Dr. Grubb recounts his unique experiences from holding gold bars in Peru to his childhood in diverse educational systems across the U.S., South Africa, and the U.K. He also provides valuable advice for non-traditional learners and highlights the significance of mentorship, interdisciplinary thinking, and the impact of neurodiversity on innovative problem-solving in engineering.

Square Pegs Podcast is a series of intimate conversations about navigating life and learning within the neurodiverse community, hosted by Dr. Arash Zaghi, Professor at the University of Connecticut School of Engineering. In each episode, we talk to neurodiverse students and experts in the field of neurodiversity.

Send feedback about Square Pegs to [email protected] or find us at squarepegspodcast.com.

00:00 Introducing Dr. Dennis Grubb

Today, we speak with Ivy, a high school senior and director of the documentary, “From Stigma to Strength, the Neurodiversity Project.” Ivy discusses her experiences with ADHD and dyslexia, highlighting the challenges of growing up undiagnosed and feeling isolated in traditional educational settings. She emphasizes the importance of teachers advocating for neurodiversity awareness and creating inclusive environments. Ivy's documentary, which has been screened across Bay Area schools, aims to dissolve the stigma around neurodiversity by showcasing the shared experiences and strengths of neurodivergent individuals. The conversation also touches on the significance of self-advocacy, the diversity model over the deficit narrative, and the impact of social media on mental health. Ivy plans to study neuroscience and cognitive science at Duke University, aspiring to continue her advocacy and research into neurodiversity.

Watch Ivy’s documentary here:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uGrj9-St6gg

https://stigmatostrengthdoc.com

Square Pegs Podcast is a series of intimate conversations about navigating life and learning within the neurodiverse community, hosted by Dr. Arash Zaghi, Professor at the University of Connecticut School of Engineering. In each episode, we talk to neurodiverse students and experts in the field of neurodiversity.

Send feedback about Square Pegs to [email protected] or find us at squarepegspodcast.com.

00:42 Introducing Ivy: A Neurodiverse Student's Journey

02:32 From Stigma to Strength: The Making of a Documentary

06:05 Challenges and Strengths: A Neurodivergent Student's Experience

12:00 Advocating for Change: Suggestions for an Inclusive Education System

15:41 The Power of Self-Advocacy and Community Support

36:15 Looking Ahead: Plans for College and Beyond

42:14 Navigating Mental Health and Social Media as a Neurodivergent Individual

45:56 Final Thoughts and Advice for the Future

This episode of the Square Peg's Podcast features a conversation with Thomas G. West, an author and advocate known for exploring the strengths of individuals with dyslexia and the benefits of visual thinking. West discusses the importance of big-picture thinking over detail-oriented education, the problems with the current educational system's focus on narrow specialization, and the unique abilities that neurodiverse individuals bring to problem-solving and innovation. The dialogue also touches on the history of visual thinkers like Albert Einstein and the impact of artificial intelligence on the future of work and creativity. The hosts share personal experiences with dyslexia, emphasizing the need for educational reform that embraces neurodiversity and prepares students for a changing world.

Watch one of Thomas’s lectures here

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=grZQhqTZUZQ

Square Pegs Podcast is a series of intimate conversations about navigating life and learning within the neurodiverse community, hosted by Dr. Arash Zaghi, Professor at the University of Connecticut School of Engineering. In each episode, we talk to neurodiverse students and experts in the field of neurodiversity.

Send feedback about Square Pegs to [email protected] or find us at squarepegspodcast.com.

01:08 Introducing Thomas G. West

03:22 The Genesis of Interest in Dyslexia and Visual Thinking

09:12 Exploring Visual Thinking: Beyond Shapes and Forms

14:42 Cross-Disciplinary Research and the Future of Discovery

15:31 Challenges in the Current Education System

20:58 The Role of Hands-On Learning and Visual Education

23:54 Embracing AI and the Future of Education

30:05 Overcoming Procrastination and Embracing Efficiency

31:18 Exploring Creativity and Dyslexia's Unique Advantages

37:14 The Power of Observation and Nature in Scientific Discovery

44:15 The Importance of Cross-Disciplinary Work and Visual Thinking

44:33 Challenges and Solutions in Education for Dyslexic Learners

47:58 Rethinking Academic Practices and Embracing Diverse Talents

54:37 The Future of AI, Education, and the Value of Diverse Thinking

01:01:20 Closing Thoughts and Resources for Neurodiversity Advocacy

Discover the resilience that shines through adversity as Anthony, a graduate student, joins us. Anthony brings us on a journey marked by undiagnosed autism, schizoaffective disorder, and a battle with mental health that led to homelessness. His early love for science and technology, sparked by 'Star Trek' and nurtured in the solace of gaming and online communities, provided a beacon of hope in his darkest times.

Our heart-to-heart navigates the intricate corridors of academic pressure, substance abuse, and the quest for self-esteem amid the competitive halls of Harvard. Anthony's candid reflections on alcoholism, recognizing the intertwined nature of mental health and addiction, and the subsequent fall into mental illness lay bare the stark realities faced by many but spoken of by few. It's a tale of exceptional academic achievement shadowed by personal struggles, highlighting the need for greater awareness and inclusion in both educational and professional landscapes.

Rounding out our conversation, Anthony shares his path to recovery and growth, emphasizing the role of family support, treatment, and the grounding effect of meditation. While addressing the societal impacts of his experiences, he underscores the importance of participating in student activities and the wider college community. Anthony's narrative stands as a testament to his dedication to science and the unyielding human spirit.

Square Pegs is a series of intimate conversations about navigating life and learning within the neurodiverse community, hosted by Dr. Arash Zaghi, Professor at the University of Connecticut School of Engineering. In each episode, we talk to neurodiverse students and experts in the field of neurodiversity.

Send feedback about Square Pegs to ⁠[email protected]⁠ or find us at squarepegspodcast.com.

00:00 Navigating Adversity and Pursuing Science

14:35 Navigating Student Activities and Bullying

24:40 Alcoholism's Impact on Mental Health

34:58 Challenges of Harvard and Self-Esteem

41:30 Mental Illness and Homelessness Journey

55:40 Recovery and Growth

01:05:15 Overcoming Homelessness and Mental Health

01:09:52 Maximizing College Experience Through Student Involvement

Liz Spingola is a distinguished data scientist with a robust background in neurodiversity, digital accessibility, and inclusive education, currently working at IBM. Liz emphasizes the importance of instructor awareness and training around neurodiversity, the recognition of disability through an identity-first lens, the need for community feedback to create an inclusive environment, and the legal requirements for digital accessibility. Join Arash Zaghi, Lexi Hain, and Liz Spingola as they delve deeper into these insights on the next episode of the Square Pegs Podcast. 

Square Pegs is a series of intimate conversations about navigating life and learning within the neurodiverse community, hosted by Dr. Arash Zaghi, Professor at the University of Connecticut School of Engineering. In each episode, we talk to neurodiverse students and experts in the field of neurodiversity.

Send feedback about Square Pegs to ⁠⁠[email protected]⁠⁠⁠ or find us at squarepegspodcast.com. 

01:27 Liz Spingola's Expertise in Data Analytics and Accessibility

08:16 Obstacles and expenses in obtaining student accommodations

09:16 Prioritizing Digital Accessibility for Inclusive Education

19:13 The Dichotomy of Reading and Spelling

28:36 The Impact of Personal Interests in Education

36:49 Challenging Traditional Notions: Disabilities and Society

43:44 Embracing Disability as Empowering Identity

50:06 The Value of Neurodiversity

01:01:59 Inclusive Design for All Abilities

01:19:23 The Impact of Outdated Teaching Methods

Join us as we embark on an exploration of neurodiversity, music, and rhythm with Hayes, a PhD student in psychological sciences at the University of Connecticut. Hayes shares his fascinating research on rhythmic entrainment and its mathematical modeling, shedding light on the differences in rhythm perception and reproduction between autistic and neurotypical individuals. We also touch on the transformative power of music and dance therapy in autism therapeutic services.

We also look at Hayes' childhood experience with a PDD-NOS diagnosis, the complexities of introversion and extroversion, and the struggle to find authenticity in a world that often urges conformity. As we navigate through the complexities of personal identity and societal stereotypes, we gain insights into the impact of autism on self-perception and self-discovery.

From there, we move into an exploration of career paths, with a focus on the transition from the film industry to autism research. Hayes shares how his passion for psychology and film led him to switching careers and moving to LA, despite having a background in math and engineering. We conclude with reflections on masking and authenticity, all in a bid to foster greater understanding of the neurodiverse experience.

Square Pegs is a series of intimate conversations about navigating life and learning within the neurodiverse community, hosted by Dr. Arash Zaghi, Professor at the University of Connecticut School of Engineering. In each episode, we talk to neurodiverse students and experts in the field of neurodiversity.

Send feedback about Square Pegs to [email protected] or find us at squarepegspodcast.com.

00:00 Rhythmic Entrainment and Autism

04:27 Childhood Experiences and Autism Diagnosis

14:44 Navigate Introversion and Extroversion Spectrum

20:53 Self-Discovery and Finding Authenticity

27:29 Finding Belonging and Happiness

35:28 Exploring Career Paths in Three Fields

40:24 Film Industry Challenges and Grad School Transition

45:14 Transitioning From Film to Autism Research

51:00 Reflection on Masking and Genuine Self

55:24 Challenges in Pursuing Music Career

In this episode of Square Pegs, we delve into two important topics: first, we explore the strengths and challenges related to obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) as a form of neurodiversity and second, we explore the potential connections between environmental stressors in graduate school, mental health, and eating disorders. Sarah, a Teaching Assistant Professor at Stevens Institute of Technology, shares her personal experiences with OCD as well as her journey in managing an eating disorder during her time as a graduate student. 

The discussion highlights how societal pressures, particularly those present in academia, can contribute to harmful behaviors and detrimental mindset. Sarah also emphasizes the urgent need for a shift in focus towards mental and physical well-being, effective mentorship, and proactive outreach within academia. We discuss the systemic flaws that hinder the balance of research and teaching in academia, underscoring an urgent need for change. 

⁠National Association of Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Disorders

https://anad.org/

⁠⁠FEDUP collective - Fighting Eating Disorders in Underrepresented Populations⁠

https://fedupcollective.org/

⁠Association for Size Diversity and Health⁠⁠

https://fedupcollective.org/

International OCD Foundation⁠

https://fedupcollective.org/

⁠Sarah Goodman's Blog⁠

https://fedupcollective.org/

Square Pegs is a series of intimate conversations about navigating life and learning within the neurodiverse community, hosted by Dr. Arash Zaghi, Professor at the University of Connecticut School of Engineering. In each episode, we talk to neurodiverse students and experts in the field of neurodiversity.

Send feedback about Square Pegs to ⁠⁠⁠[email protected]⁠⁠⁠ or find us at ⁠⁠⁠squarepegspodcast.com.

00:00 Mental gymnastics: the compulsion of intrusive thoughts

03:45 The transformative potential of undergraduate research opportunities

08:00 Locked in the supply closet: a detailed look at the thought processes of OCD

09:49 Planning the storage supply closet in teaching labs

14:20 Approaching things differently: coping with OCD

19:06 Being an open door for students: the importance of empathy

21:29 OCD strengths: the value of over-preparation

25:18 Common experiences of OCD 

27:51 The perfect grad student

36:20 Faculty perspectives on changing the culture of academia

39:12 Checking in with students and offering support

42:59 Fostering creativity and personal connections in education

45:33 Content warning: This portion contains discussion of eating disorders

49:15 Lack of control in grad school 

55:43 Food as a coping mechanism for anxiety

59:03 Hustle culture and its impact on mental health

1:04:53 The importance of mentorship and teaching in academia

1:07:45 The need for change and support in education

In this episode of the Square Pegs podcast, we are joined by Autumn Deitrick, an engineering education doctoral student at The Pennsylvania State University. At the time of recording, she was finishing her master’s degree in civil and environmental engineering at The Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and entering the doctoral program at Penn State.

Autumn discusses her experiences throughout her K-12, undergraduate, and graduate education, through the lens of a recent ADHD diagnosis. With an emphasis on “Becoming Best Friends with [her] Brain,” Autumn discusses some strategies that have been helpful for her while navigating the educational system as a neurodiverse student. She also shares her insights on the engineering field, how she became involved with civil and environmental engineering, and why she is stepping into education in this field.

She finishes by giving advice to her younger self, which listeners may find applicable to their own lives. Join us as we explore with Autumn how she navigates the intricacies of the educational system as a neurodiverse student and and how she leans into the idea of self-acceptance.

Watch Autumn’s talk here

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JFxKGHjduCg⁠

Square Pegs is a series of intimate conversations about navigating life and learning within the neurodiverse community, hosted by Dr. Arash Zaghi, Professor at the University of Connecticut School of Engineering. In each episode, we talk to neurodiverse students and experts in the field of neurodiversity. 

Send feedback about Square Pegs to ⁠[email protected]⁠ or find us at squarepegspodcast.com.

00:37 Autumn's intro, finishing her master’s degree in civil and environmental engineering at MIT and entering an engineering education PhD program at Penn State. 

3:04 Autumn’s TedTalk “Becoming Best Friends with my Brain and How You Can Too.” 

6:48 Mindset shifts and the importance of a growth mindset.

10:50 Exercise, mindfulness, long walks, and taking breaks.

23:29 What is productivity? How often do we use pseudo-productivity to combat anxiety rather than taking breaks that allow us to be fully present at work? 

29:40 Anxiety regarding exams in undergraduate education, the importance of self-advocacy, and the provision of accommodations.

35:20 Self-acceptance and becoming friends with your brain, treating yourself as you would a friend, and loving the way your brain works.  

37:50 How and why students may enter the engineering field, the rigidity of the field, and the delusion or intentional lying surrounding the “creativity” of the field.

46:46 The transition to engineering education.

52:23 Receiving a diagnosis and how this may help in understanding oneself.

1:02:42 What advice would you give your younger self?

On this episode of Square Pegs, we are joined by Connie Syharat, a doctoral student in the Department of Curriculum & Instruction at the University of Connecticut’s Neag School of Education. Connie shares reflections about her experiences working on neurodiversity-related research within UConn’s Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, culminating with a discussion of her current research as part of a team investigating the experiences of neurodiverse graduate students in STEM fields.

Today’s conversation brings us through the major findings from a series of 10 focus groups with neurodiverse graduate students, as we meander through topics like procrastination, productivity, and perfectionism. Connie shares insights about the ways neurodiverse grad students may internalize the neurotypical norms of the graduate school, hide their struggles in the face of what they perceive as threatening power dynamics, and ultimately feel immense pressure to mask their neurodiversity, risking overwork and burnout. Join us as we delve into what the research is saying about the real cost of navigating advanced STEM programs as a neurodiverse graduate student.

Square Pegs is a series of intimate conversations about navigating life and learning within the neurodiverse community, hosted by Dr. Arash Zaghi, Professor at the University of Connecticut School of Engineering. In each episode, we talk to neurodiverse students and experts in the field of neurodiversity.

Send feedback about Square Pegs to ⁠⁠⁠[email protected]⁠⁠⁠ or find us at ⁠⁠⁠squarepegspodcast.com.

00:55 Guest intro: Connie Syharat, Research Assistant at UConn Civil and Environmental Engineering and doctoral student in the Department of Curriculum and Instruction at UConn’s Neag School of Education.

02:48 Making room for exploration and wonder in a strengths-based research environment for students with ADHD.

05:30 How can students bring their whole self to the classroom?

06:00 What the research says, introducing a recent publication titled “Experiences of neurodivergent students in graduate STEM programs.”

10:30 “Why can’t I be like them?” Graduate students feel pressure to conform to the expectations built into the system and often struggle with negative self-judgments.

14:40 Procrastination: an unhealthy habit or the “magic” tool that helps get things done? Strategies, fake deadlines, and fine-tuning your procrastination for the realities of grad school.

26:45 Self-silencing and power dynamics: Neurodiverse graduate students often hide their struggles, avoid seeking help, and take on too much, leaving no space for self-care.

31:30 The importance of down time for creativity and a discussion of the productivity culture of academia.

42:00 The cost of masking can include burnout, depression, anxiety, and physical health impacts. How can we tell if it is a safe atmosphere to unmask or disclose a diagnosis?

53:00 Finding a compatible advisor, talking about work style, communicating your strengths and weaknesses, and how bringing your whole self can help you make a deeper contribution to your work.

1:00:00 Final thoughts and reflections.