Neurodivergence: A Software Feature, Not A Bug | Kenneth Pennington EP 21

For many neurodivergent people, the question is never just how to succeed, it is how to exist in systems that were never designed with them in mind.In this episode, I’m joined by Kenneth Pennington, who shares his journey from corporate HR to building his own brand, “It’s Just a Fish.” We explore what it actually means to be neurodivergent in professional environments, from being labelled disruptive or aggressive to navigating the exhausting reality of masking. Kenneth explains how neurodivergent people often develop a heightened ability to sense patterns, behaviours, and underlying dynamics in a room, even before anything is said. We also talk about the tension between self-expression and social expectations, including the idea of the “corporate sieve” and why not every environment allows for full unmasking. This conversation also challenges the idea that neurodivergence should excuse harmful behaviour, while still advocating for self-awareness, communication, and support systems that actually help people thrive.If you’ve ever felt like you had to shrink, mask, or constantly adjust yourself just to fit in, this episode offers a more honest and nuanced perspective on what it takes to navigate the world as a neurodivergent person without losing yourself in the process.Connect with Kenneth Pennington: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kennethppennington/https://www.instagram.com/its_just_a_fish/Connect with Mehttps://www.linkedin.com/in/aniahulsman/https://www.aniahulsman.comIf this episode spoke to you, please consider subscribing and leaving a review. It would mean the world to me personally, and it really helps others who need to hear these kinds of stories to find the podcast. Until next time, stay messy. Stay magnificent and stay true to your weird, wonderful self!