#7 Kassandra Clemens Autistic ADHD - An inspiring story

Kassandra Clemens shares her personal journey with ADHD and autism, discussing the challenges she faced and the late diagnosis she received. She highlights the importance of understanding and managing the high-energy states associated with ADHD and the role of meditation in finding inner peace. Cassandra also discusses her plans for the future, including creating courses and collaborating with others to support neurodivergent individuals. She reflects on the progress and setbacks in society's acceptance of neurodiversity. The conversation explores the need to change the paradigm around neurodivergence and challenges the perception of neurodivergent individuals as having disorders. It highlights the importance of creating a supportive environment in the workplace for neurodivergent individuals and the potential for neurodivergent thinking to drive progress. The conversation also discusses the limitations of the current education system in accommodating neurodivergent students and suggests alternative approaches. The concept of unmasking and being true to oneself is explored, along with the question of whether one would choose a different path if given the opportunity. Takeaways Late diagnosis of ADHD is a common theme, with many individuals not realizing they have ADHD until later in life. Managing the high-energy states associated with ADHD is crucial for overall well-being and mental health. Meditation and mindfulness can be effective tools for finding inner peace and controlling racing thoughts. Society's attitude towards neurodiversity varies, with progress being made in some areas but setbacks occurring in others. Chapters 00:00:00 Introduction and Background 00:04:19 Late Diagnosis of ADHD 00:08:32 Combined Autism and ADHD 00:13:19 Working in the University Environment 00:19:20 Self-Medication with Food 00:22:04 Medication and Controlling the High 00:27:04 Meditation and Mindfulness 00:34:18 Future Plans and Riding the Dragon 00:46:30 Society's Attitude Towards Neurodiversity 00:49:44 Changing the Paradigm 00:51:11 Perception of Neurodivergence 00:52:09 Neurodivergence in the Workplace 00:53:33 Neurodivergence and Progress 00:54:31 Language and Difference 00:56:25 The Power of Neurodivergent Thinking 00:57:22 Education and Difference 00:58:42 Alternative Education Approaches 00:59:44 The Summerhill School 01:02: Neurodivergence as a Unit 01:03: Being Open about Neurodivergence 01:06: Choosing a Different Path