Episode 29: Dave Thompson

Welcome to episode #29 We’re thrilled to be joined by Dave Thompson today.Dave Thompson is a self-advocate with ADHD, Dyslexia, and Sensory Processing Disorder. He has worked as an innovator, consultant, trainer, and strategist within the Neurodiversity Employment space since 2010. Welcome to the show Dave!QuestionsCan you tell us about your experience with neurodiversity? When did you realize that you weren’t neurotypical? What challenges did you face? What is it like now?Diagnosed from 5 y.o.Disability lens - special education, deficit model - standard in New YorkNew lens: potential - some things come easyPublic speaking: Jim Carey impressions/playsEmpathetic: natural tour guideSee things differently: backward/upside downBuilding furniture without instructionsChallengesTying shoesDrivingDistractionNoiseNeurodistinct vs neurodivergentIndividuals can’t be neurodiverseEveryone is on the neurodiversity spectrumNeurodistinct coined by Tim Goldstein - neurodivergent implies normality vs What "work" projects are you concentrating on?Goal to help people have a better experience than he did early onStarted with job coaching helping individualsNow fixing the workplace via Potentia WorkforceHelping big companies become more neuro-inclusive (EY, Microsoft, IBM)Researched what worked well in Trailblazers and help other companies (Chevron, AIG) followTrain teams on how to include neuro-distinct individualsSTARS program Support new hires, managers, and teamsEmpower programMeasure how neuro-inclusive a company isEngagementWhat can companies do?HiringSending out interview questions in advanceStrengths-based interviewsDon’t copy-paste job descriptions - avoid having too many requirements and make it specific“Must be a strong communicator” is a terrible requirementOngoing workEmployee Resource Groups (ERGs)Peer supportMentorshipSharing tactics/toolsAdvocacy“No conversations about us without us”How about the rest of the time? What do you enjoy doing in your off time?Family man: wife and daughterUnplug completely - do the opposite of the workGet out in natureWalk dogsMusicUpright bassDoesn’t sight read musicWhat does your morning routine look like and how has it evolved over time?Realization that routine is important  came laterWakes up at 5:Walks dogGreets familyStarts work at 7 amWhat do you do to optimize productivity during your working hours?Noise-canceling headphones + Brown noise/low-frequency binaural beatsSometimes heavy metal Working from homeRight lighting environmentUnchanging environmentTwo monitorsStanding desksFidget toysCOMMERCIAL BREAKWhat is one habit you'd like to remove from your life (either a bad habit or one that takes up too much time)?CandyNever unplugHow do you switch off at night?Walk with wifeWatch TVGo to sleepWhat resources (books, philosophies, apps, sensory toys) do you find most helpful for productivity and habit formation?Neurodistinct social media (TikTok, Reddit)Assistive tech: TrelloPaperWhere can people connect with you or find your work?Potentia WorkforceInstagramLinkedInDave Thompson on LinkedInPotentiaWorkforce: NDTC - neuro-distinct talent Do you have any final words or asks for our audience?You’re not the (whole) problem Joey’s creativity coursehttps://thepluckyjester.com/habitling-habit-building-course