Neurodiversity Celebration week - Communication: Are We Really Listening?

Send us Fan MailEpisode Summary:In Part 5 of this Neurodiversity Celebration Week mini-series, Sarah and Cassie explore the topic of communication, especially between neurodivergent and neurotypical individuals. They reflect on the importance of clear, direct language, how rejection sensitivity affects the way we hear things, and why “listening” isn’t just about hearing words.They also touch on ADHD, verbal impulsivity, emotional regulation, and a powerful concept known as the Double Empathy Problem—offering a more compassionate perspective on communication breakdowns. If you’ve ever felt misunderstood, shut down in conversation, or overwhelmed by how others speak to you (or don’t!), this episode will hit home.Topics Discussed:What clean language is and why it supports neurodivergent mindsListening as a leadership skill & communication vs connectionADHD, impulsivity, blurting, and fast-paced thoughtRejection sensitivity and verbal processingThe Double Empathy Problem (Damien Milton’s theory)Communication breakdowns in mixed neurotype groupsCreating psychological safety in teamsTips for clearer communication, asking for clarity & slowing downTimestamps:00:00 – Welcome & why communication matters 01:15 – What is “clean language”? 03:00 – Different ways of listening & being present 06:30 – The Double Empathy Problem explained 10:15 – Miscommunication between neurodivergent & neurotypical folks 13:45 – Rejection sensitivity & assumption-making 16:20 – ADHD, verbal overflow & blurting out 18:10 – Communication anxiety & fear of judgement 20:40 – Why silence can feel unsafe 23:00 – Compassion, curiosity & co-creating safetyKey Quotes:"We're all meaning-making machines—and many of us are on overdrive." "Listening isn’t about being active—it’s about presence." "If you’re not sure what something means, clarify. Don’t just assume." "Neurodivergent communication isn’t broken. It’s different—and often deeply nuanced." "When we feel seen and safe, that’s when we show up best."Links & Resources:Cassie Footman – LinkedInNeurodiversity Celebration Week Official SiteDamian Milton – The Double Empathy ProblemUniversity of Edinburgh (2020) Diffusion Chain Study on Autistic CommunicationConnect With SarahWebsite: www.sarahatkinsdesign.comFollow on InstagramConnect on LinkedInBuy the 2026 Energetics of Being Journal on Amazon