The Neurodiverse Lens – Episode 7

Disclosing Neurodiversity in the Workplace: When, Why & How

Disclosure is a deeply personal decision. In this episode, Carolyn and Jordan unpack the complexities of sharing your neurodiversity at work—why you might disclose, what the risks are, and how to navigate accommodations while protecting your mental health. From personal stories to practical advice, this conversation explores the balance between advocacy and self-preservation in workplaces that are not always neurodiverse-friendly.

🔎 Whether you’ve disclosed, are considering it, or prefer to keep it private, this episode provides strategies, support, and reassurance that every choice is valid.

• 00:01 – Welcome & introduction

• 00:27 – What does disclosure mean in the workplace?

• 02:02 – The impact of stigma and unconscious bias

• 03:41 – Carolyn’s personal disclosure journey

• 05:42 – Accommodations that could have helped earlier

• 06:57 – Types of disclosure: HR vs. full workplace openness

• 08:46 – Positive and negative stories from disclosing

• 10:59 – Risks: promotions, unconscious bias, and legal rights

• 13:09 – Navigating workplace disclosure step by step

• 15:10 – How disclosure can build understanding (LASIK story)

• 17:19 – Self-advocacy and small workplace accommodations

• 19:55 – Handling toxic workplaces and self-accommodations

• 23:07 – First steps if you’re considering disclosure

• 25:00 – CDL training and workplace supports

Welcome back to The Neurodiverse Lens, a CDL podcast where Carolyn and Jordan explore everyday challenges and solutions through a neurodiverse lens.

In this episode, we take a deep dive into executive functioning—what it is, why it matters, and how it shows up at home, in school, and during daily routines. We discuss how executive functioning impacts children (especially those with ADHD), what “paper amnesia” really means, and how to reduce conflict around transitions, homework, and chores.

🎧 Whether you're a parent, caregiver, educator, or simply want to better understand executive functioning, this episode offers practical strategies, mindset shifts, and validation for everyone on the journey.

🧠 Learn more about our free programs and workshops at:
👉 https://www.diverselearners.ca

📅 Book a free Resource Call (Halton families):
👉https://diverselearners.ca/resource-facilitation/

📲 Follow us for more:
Instagram: @neurodiverselens
Facebook: Centre for Diverse Learners

⏱️ Timestamps / Chapters:

00:00 – Welcome to The Neurodiverse Lens
00:40 – What is Executive Functioning?
01:30 – The Hidden Impact on Daily Routines
02:30 – Planning, Prioritizing, and Working Memory
04:00 – Emotional Regulation & Meltdowns
05:00 – Real-Life Examples of Executive Dysfunction
06:30 – Executive Functioning & School Fatigue
08:00 – Signs Parents Might See at Home
09:30 – Transitions and Emotional Reactions
10:30 – Homework Stress vs. Ability
11:30 – Strategies: Visual Schedules & Prompts
13:00 – Paper Amnesia: A Real Challenge
14:30 – Building Autonomy with Gradual Support
16:00 – Parent Frustration & Real-Life Parenting
18:00 – Sibling Dynamics & Celebrating Small Wins
20:00 – Marriage, Understanding, and Neurodiversity
22:00 – Mindset Shift: It’s Not a Choice
23:00 – CDL Programs for Executive Functioning
24:00 – Free Support for Hamilton Families
24:30 – Closing Thoughts and How to Get Help

Summer break can be both exciting and overwhelming—especially for families with neurodiverse children. In this episode, Carolyn and Jordan from the Centre for Diverse Learners explore how to plan for smoother transitions, manage expectations, and care for both your child’s and your own mental health.

Whether it’s camp drop-off jitters, changing routines, or feeling pressure to create the “perfect summer,” this episode offers validation, encouragement, and practical tools to help families thrive.

Timestamps00:00 – Introduction & why summer can be tough for neurodiverse families01:20 – Tip #1: Don’t do a countdown to summer03:00 – Preparing for transitions (camp, travel, visits)06:00 – Talking with grandparents, relatives, and other caregivers09:30 – Visual schedules and planning for overwhelm13:00 – Co-regulation and calming strategies in public17:30 – Giving yourself permission to slow down20:30 – The myth of the “perfect summer”26:00 – CDL’s Friendship Club and how you can get involved28:30 – Final thoughts: Let go of guilt and embrace what works for your family

🌐 Learn more or register for summer programs at: diverselearners.ca
📞 Book a free resource call
💛 Consider donating to support programs like Friendship Club

🎙️ If you found this helpful, be sure to like, share, and subscribe!

Welcome to The Neurodiverse Lens, a CDL podcast hosted by Carolyn and Jordan. In this episode, we explore the relationship between neurodiversity and mental health, sharing personal experiences, research insights, and practical self-care strategies.Disclaimer: This episode reflects personal perspectives and experiences and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider.Time Stamps:0:00 Introduction and Disclaimer

1:25 Our Message

3:02 Neurodiversity and Depression

6:26 Fitting into a Neurotypical World

15:10 Children Might Not Have the Language

17:10 Neurodiversity Might NOT be a Superpower

23:20 Finding Support

31:00 Self Care

38:55 Resource Calls Call to ActionEnjoyed this episode? Subscribe to The Neurodiverse Lens for more conversations that center and support neurodiverse individuals and families.🌐 Learn more about us: https://diverselearners.ca📧 Email Us: [email protected] Follow Us📸 Instagram: @neurodiverselens▶️ YouTube: @NeurodiverseLens🎵 TikTok: @neurodiverselens📘 Facebook: The Neurodiverse Lens🧵 Threads: @neurodiverselens🎙️ Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and wherever you get your podcasts!#Neurodiversity #MentalHealthAwareness #TheNeurodiverseLens #CentreForDiverseLearners #Podcast

What makes a workplace truly inclusive—and how can employers break down the barriers that hold neurodiverse employees back? In this episode, we explore the strengths and challenges neurodiverse individuals experience at work, from navigating social situations to adapting to rigid environments and expectations.

We dive into what inclusive practices actually look like: clear, consistent communication, multiple formats for instructions, thoughtful accommodations, and the power of technology and flexible workspaces. We also tackle workplace stigma—how language shapes culture, and why leaders must be role models in building neuro-inclusive spaces.

Whether you're an employer, co-worker, or neurodiverse professional yourself, this episode offers practical insights on how to create a workplace where everyone can shine.

Join us as we delve into practical strategies for embracing social challenges and building meaningful connections. In this episode, you'll learn how to:

• Embrace the challenge and seek out helpers.
• Share your strengths and weaknesses while embracing others.
• Relieve the pressure to be "normal" and set your own norms.
• Build and maintain friendships by allowing people to be who they are.
• Navigate dating and relationships as a neurodiverse person, including the decision to disclose or not.
• Watch for red flags of abuse and understand that you deserve to be loved.
• Understand the impact of masking and the importance of authenticity.
• Recharge your energy and recognize when you are masking.

Remember, it doesn’t have to be all or nothing. Tune in to learn how to overcome social anxiety and communication challenges with confidence and compassion.

In our first episode, we dive into the real experiences of parenting neurodiverse children — the challenges, the triumphs, and everything in between. We explore common struggles parents face, including judgment from others, managing emotional stress, and the importance of both parents staying on the same page.You'll hear practical advice on advocating for your child in schools and the community, working as a productive partner with teachers, and navigating the often confusing process of assessments and accommodations. We also share tips for building a neurodiverse-affirming home environment, creating consistency, allowing positive off-ramps, and — most importantly — giving yourself grace.From managing IEP meetings to knowing when to bring an advocate, this episode is packed with relatable stories and actionable strategies for supporting your child while finding support for yourself.