86: Part 3 "The Intersection of Neurodivergence and Workplace Safety" with Ben Walkenhorst

This episode of the Dear Dyslexic podcast explores how feedback and workplace practices can impact neurodivergent people, including those with dyslexia, ADHD, and autism, particularly when feedback feels overly critical or triggering due to past experiences. The conversation focuses on the role of great leadership in giving feedback privately and safely, discussing practical adjustments like changing red markup colors and reframing “feedback” as “advice.” It also covers how constant check-ins can raise anxiety and suggests creating adult-adult relationships where employees have permission to speak up about what works for them. The guest emphasises the importance of training leaders in psychological, social, and emotional dynamics and neurodivergence, linking psychological safety to improved productivity and business outcomes, alongside growing legal and regulatory obligations in Australia. 00:00 Welcome to Dear Dyslexic 00:33 Feedback and RSD 02:13 Better Ways to Give Feedback 03:54 Advice Not Feedback 04:20 Checking In Without Anxiety 06:05 Adult Adult Leadership 07:27 Training Leaders on Neurodiversity 10:11 Business Case and Compliance 12:22 Wrap Up and Next Episode 15:19 Resources and Sign Off Resources Understanding Neurodivergence and Psychosocial Hazards in the Workplace About Dear Dyslexic Podcast The Dear Dyslexic Podcast amplifies the voices, experiences and expertise of people from the dyslexia and broader neurodivergent communities, creating conversations that inform, empower and inspire. Learn more about re:think dyslexia: www.rethinkdyslexia.com.au Stay Connected Thanks for listening to Dr Shae and the Dear Dyslexic Podcast, proudly produced by re:think dyslexia, a certified social enterprise. To stay up to date with our latest episodes, resources and events, follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn and Instagram. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, rate and review the podcast on your favourite podcast platform. Listen to more Dear Dyslexic Podcast episodes on Spotify. Need Support? If any of the topics discussed in this episode have caused distress, support is available: Lifeline: 13 11 14 Beyond Blue: 1300 22 4636 13YARN: 13 92 76 re:think dyslexia Helpline: 1800 13 6327