Episode 79: Samantha Stein

Welcome to episode #79! We’re thrilled to be joined by Samantha Stein today.Samantha Stein, known online as YoSandySam, is a YouTube creator, author, and business strategist for neurodivergent entrepreneurs. Diagnosed with autism at 33 and ADHD shortly after, she began making YouTube videos to process her diagnosis and educate neurotypicals about what autism really looks like. Her content resonated widely, amassing over 14 million views.In addition to YouTube, Samantha is the author of So You Think You’re Autistic, a workbook that helps newly diagnosed individuals navigate their neurodivergence. She’s currently working on a new book about neurodivergence and trauma, set to release in 2026. She also works with neurodivergent business owners, helping them build sustainable strategies for success, and recently hosted the first-ever Wild Brains Retreat in the Netherlands.Today, she joins us to discuss her journey, content creation, business coaching, and productivity strategies for neurodivergent minds.Welcome to the show, Samantha!QuestionsJN: When did you first suspect you were neurodivergent?Always felt different but internalized it as a personal flawPsychology degree exposed her to outdated autism theories (e.g., “extreme male brain”), which didn’t fit her experienceStruggled with mental health throughout her 20s (depression, anxiety) but never linked it to autismPostpartum period triggered a breakdown in masking, making her realize something deeper was going onJN: What was your diagnosis process like?Struggled with imposter syndrome, worried she was “too good at masking” to be diagnosedWent to her assessment with a seven-page Google Doc listing symptomsDiagnostician confirmed autism easily, but the diagnosis felt anticlimactic—left wondering, “Now what?”JN: How did receiving an official diagnosis change things for you?Initially overwhelming, but led to self-acceptance over timeInspired her to start making YouTube videos as a way to process and educate othersHelped her understand her past struggles and navigate life more effectivelyJN: What are some of the biggest myths about autism that you address in your content?Stereotypes (e.g., only young boys like trains)Misconception that autism only presents in certain waysThe need for diverse representation in autism content, including cultural and racial perspectivesJN: What has been the impact of your YouTube channel?Over 14 million views and a growing neurodivergent communityLed to opportunities like publishing books and working with neurodivergent business ownersHelped push for more diverse and accurate representation of autism onlineJN: Can you tell us about your work with neurodivergent business owners?Helps them create sustainable business strategies that align with their neurodivergent strengthsFocuses on accountability, structure, and breaking tasks into manageable stepsAdvocates for working smarter, not harder—rejecting hustle culture in favor of efficiencyJN: What’s your approach to productivity as a neurodivergent person?Rejects the idea of “doing a little bit every day” in favor of deep work and hyperfocus sprintsUses external accountability and structured planning to stay on trackCreates work schedules that prevent burnout rather than chasing traditional productivity modelsJN: What does your morning routine look like?Survival mode—starts the day managing kids’ needsTries to fit in a workout or walk if possibleTidies up the house and prepares for the day aheadNo elaborate self-care rituals—just getting through the morning efficientlyJN: How do you wind down at night?Watches TV while using a second screen (phone)Occasionally plays piano with headphones as a calming activityPrioritizes sleep and avoids working in the evenings to maintain boundariesJN: Where can people connect with you?YouTube: YoSamdySamWebsite: yosamdysam.comPodcast: Awkward ConversationsInstagram: @YoSandySam  Book: So You Think You’re Autistic (Available on Amazon)JN: Final words for the audience?Self-understanding and acceptance are the keys to sustainable successBe mindful of burnout and create work habits that actually fit your brainIt’s okay to need support—humans are meant to work together, not struggle aloneMore from Focus Bear:Website: https://focusbear.ioLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/focus-bear/Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@focusbearappTwitter: https://twitter.com/focusbear1Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/focus_bear/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/focusbearapp/Podcast: https://podcast.focusbear.ioTiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@focusbearConnect with Jeremy:LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/nageljeremyEmail: [email protected] with Joey:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joeycorea/Newsletter: https://thepluckyjester.com/newsletter/