The Inclusive Shift

In this episode of The Inclusive Shift, Nic Nagtzaam speaks with Amin Abbas, a passionate advocate for culture, community, and neurodiversity. Amin shares inspiring insights from his Palestinian heritage, his personal experience living with ADHD, and his journey through consulting, startups, and cultural teaching. This conversation highlights how embracing neurodiversity can transform workplaces and leadership styles, promoting authenticity, purpose, and inclusion.Main Topics Covered:The cultural significance of Dabkeh dance and its connection to heritageHow creative expression through dance intersects with ADHD traitsPersonal journey of understanding and leveraging ADHD as a strengthThe importance of workplace accommodations, awareness, and psychological safetyStrategies for managers to better understand and support neurodivergent employeesBuilding an inclusive culture that celebrates individuality and authenticityPractical steps leaders can implement immediately to foster neurodiversity acceptanceThe Canary Code — Insights on neurodiversity and innovationResearch on Neurodivergence in Workplaces — EY report on neurodiversity benefitsAutism and Performance Studies — JPMorgan’s findings on autistic individuals in workplacesConnect with Amin Abbas:⁠LinkedIn⁠Additional Notes:This episode underscores the importance of designing workplaces and communities that recognize and embrace different brains, enabling everyone to flourish authentically. Leaders are encouraged to practice empathy, continuously revise organizational values, and celebrate individuality to foster inclusive environments that unlock hidden potentials in neurodivergent professionals and cultural expression alike.

Join Nic Nagtzaam and ADHD nutrition research scientist Annika Angelo as they explore the nuanced connection between neurodiversity, food, and wellbeing. Discover how understanding internal cues, reducing shame, and applying tailored communication strategies can transform the experience of living with ADHD.Main Topics:The behavioural impact of ADHD on eating habits and interoceptionThe metabolic communication model for ADHD and its implicationsStrategies for reducing shame and fostering self-trustPractical approaches for neurodivergent-friendly management in workplacesThe importance of personalized communication and management stylesIn this episode:Annika shares her personal journey with ADHD, burnout, and nutritionDiscussion on the concept of interoception and how it differs in neurodivergent individualsExplanation of Annika’s metabolic communication model and its role in understanding ADHDTackling common misconceptions about ADHD and dietHow cultivating self-trust and reducing shame can support neurodivergent healthThe role of external cues and communication models like PCM in workplace inclusionTips for managers to better support neurodiverse teamsThe importance of recognising individual differences and honouring unique needsResources & Links:Eat To Focus by Annika Angelo & Kathryn CassadyNutriMind Lab - Annika's platform exploring neuroscience and nutritionProcessing Communication Model (PCM) for understanding communication stylesConnect with Annika Angelo:LinkedInInstagramYouTubeThe Nutrition Mental Health PodcastWebsite

In this episode of The Inclusive Shift, Nic Nagtzaam sits down with Pili Ibanez-Ruiz to explore the complexities of neurodivergence, giftedness, and systemic change. Pili shares her personal journey, challenges with diagnostic labels, and visions for transforming workplaces to be truly inclusive.Key Topics:The limitations and stigma of diagnostic labels and frameworksFraming mental and neurological differences as 'operation systems'The impact of systemic rigidity on neurodivergent and gifted individualsMisunderstandings around autism and neurodivergent communication stylesThe importance of flexible, human-centered approaches in workplacesHow traditional systems hinder authentic expression and insightThe role of social media as a tool for connection and advocacyHope and opportunities for systemic change driven by neurodivergent voicesTimestamps:00:00 - Introduction to Pili Ibanez-Ruiz and the theme of inclusive workplaces01:03 - Pili's perception of labels and stigma around diagnosis02:18 - How diagnoses like bipolar or ADHD are human constructions with limitations03:42 - Personal experiences with mental health systems and trauma07:25 - The evolving landscape of mental health care post-COVID09:18 - Framing the brain as an operating system versus outdated diagnosis systems11:00 - Recognizing co-occurring conditions as multiple 'operation systems'13:14 - Living with deep processing and sensitivity as an autistic and gifted individual15:55 - The importance of trauma recovery in developing neurodivergent traits20:55 - Systemic mismatches in education, prisons, and social services22:41 - The penalisation of biological differences rather than systemic reform24:28 - The difficulty neurodivergent people face with ambiguity and societal rules26:40 - Common misconceptions about autism and the importance of understanding the nervous system29:32 - The harmful narrative of "we are all a little autistic"30:56 - Autism spectrum, neurobiology, and how internalized social rules create barriers33:24 - Empathy, sensory sensitivities, and authentic human connection34:24 - How reward systems in workplaces harm autistic and gifted individuals long term36:06 - Rethinking professionalism: emotional expression, authenticity, and flexibility38:37 - The need for workplace accommodations that respect neurodiverse routines41:22 - The damaging effects of micromanagement on neurodivergent cognition44:33 - Misunderstanding autistic communication: eye contact and small talk50:16 - Redesigning professionalism with human-centered, flexible communication styles53:01 - The importance of rest, recovery, and honesty in work environments55:22 - Challenges in mental health systems and the need for compassionate care63:36 - Navigating giftedness alongside autism and its impact on identity68:43 - The value of neurodivergent voices and the risk of silencing insight71:09 - How different 'operating systems' adapt to various environments72:31 - Pili's hope for future systemic change driven by neurodivergent leaders75:03 - Final reflections: redesigning systems to surface truth, safety, and intelligence. Resources & Links: ⁠Neurodiversity in the Workplace – Book⁠⁠DSM Manual (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders)⁠Connect with Pili Ibanez-Ruiz:⁠LinkedIn⁠

SummaryIn this episode of the Inclusive Shift, Dr Shae Wissell shares her personal journey with dyslexia and discusses the challenges faced by neurodivergent individuals in the workplace. She highlights the importance of understanding dyslexia as a hidden disability, the financial burdens associated with diagnosis and support, and the emotional toll of navigating systems not designed for neurodivergent brains. Dr Wissell emphasises the need for empathy in leadership, dispels common myths about dyslexia, and advocates using tools and strategies to support dyslexic employees. The conversation also touches on the power of storytelling in creating change and the potential for dyslexic thinking to drive innovation in organisations.Keywordsneurodiversity, dyslexia, workplace inclusion, mental health, emotional toll, leadership, self-advocacy, storytelling, innovation, support systemsAbout ShaeDr. Shae Wissell is a thought leader, researcher, and internationally recognised advocate for adults with dyslexia and neurodivergence. A certified practicing speech pathologist, she holds a Master of Public Health and Health Administration and a Doctor of Public Health. With extensive experience in health, not-for-profit, and social enterprise sectors, Shae directs re:think dyslexia and founded the chair of the Dear Dyslexic Foundation, leveraging her lived experience and diverse expertise to provide coaching, advocacy, and workforce solutions.Her research focuses on the lived experiences of Australian adults with dyslexia, examining social inequalities in healthcare, education, employment, relationships, and mental health. A published author and presenter, Shae’s work has been research has been recognised locally and internationally. Shae recently published her second book based on her research and lived experiences Dyslexia: Insights into the hidden disability In and Out of the Workplace.  As a coach, Shae empowers dyslexic individuals and entrepreneurs to achieve their goals through empathetic and impactful coaching. She also advises workplaces on creating inclusive environments and shaping policies and training programs to maximise the potential of neurodiverse employees.Shae’s accomplishments include international awards, a bestselling book, The Hobo CEO: A Year in the Life of a Dyslexic Social Entrepreneur, and the host of the Dear Dyslexic and The Hobo CEO podcasts. Her innovative approach to advocacy, research, and education makes her a valuable champion for the dyslexia community.Listen to the Dear Dyslexia PodcastApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/dear-dyslexic-podcast/id1211885219Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0jx91noXTMO4WOuFMNF0GT?si=a0d24fe333d54c6aFind Shae on LinkedInAbout Nic⁠LinkedIn⁠Getting In ContactLinkedIn: ⁠The Inclusive Shift⁠Instagram:  ⁠The Inclusive Shift⁠Facebook:  ⁠The Inclusive Shift⁠Schedule a session⁠https://calendly.com/nic-nagtzaam/podcast-interview⁠

SummaryIn this episode of the Inclusive Shift, host Nic Nagtzaam speaks with Paula Jones, an AuDHD coach and positive psychologist, about her journey as a late-diagnosed autistic woman and her work promoting neurodiversity in the workplace. Paula shares insights into the importance of understanding neurodivergence, the impact of environmental factors on performance, and the need for clear communication and expectations in organisations. They discuss myths surrounding neurodivergent individuals, the unique strengths they bring to leadership roles, and the necessity of creating inclusive environments where everyone can thrive. Paula emphasises the importance of psychological safety and the need for organisations to embrace neurodivergent ways of thinking to foster innovation and strategic thinking.Keywordsneurodiversity, workplace inclusion, positive psychology, coaching, autism, ADHD, leadership, communication, organisational change, psychological safety, the inclusive shiftAbout PaulaLinkedInWebsiteGet in TouchAbout NicLinkedInGetting In ContactLinkedIn: The Inclusive ShiftInstagram:  The Inclusive ShiftFacebook:  The Inclusive ShiftSchedule a sessionhttps://calendly.com/nic-nagtzaam/podcast-interview

Summary:In this episode of The Inclusive Shift, host Nic Nagtzaam speaks with Ani, a neurodivergent coach, about their late-life diagnosis of autism and ADHD. They discuss the challenges and insights that come with a late diagnosis, the importance of understanding one's strengths, and the role of coaching in supporting neurodivergent individuals. Ani shares their experiences in leadership roles and how those experiences have shaped their coaching approach, emphasising the need for psychological safety and tailored support in the workplace. The conversation also touches on the importance of self-acceptance and the need for organisations to adapt to better support neurodivergent employees.Keywords:neurodiversity, coaching, autism, ADHD, workplace inclusion, mental health, leadership, self-discovery, executive dysfunction, support strategies, the inclusive shiftAbout AniLinkedInWebsiteYouTubeGet in ContactAbout NicLinkedInGetting In ContactLinkedIn: The Inclusive ShiftInstagram: The Inclusive ShiftFacebook: The Inclusive ShiftSchedule a sessionhttps://calendly.com/nic-nagtzaam/podcast-interview

SummaryIn this episode of the Inclusive Shift, host Nic Nagtzaam speaks with Laetitia Andrac, an autistic founder and CEO of Understanding Zoe, about her personal journey with neurodiversity, the challenges faced by neurodivergent individuals and their families, and the importance of creating inclusive environments in workplaces and schools. Letitia shares insights on the need for accommodations, the role of AI in supporting neurodivergent families, and the significance of understanding and celebrating diverse experiences. The conversation emphasises the importance of curiosity over judgment in fostering inclusion and awareness.Keywordsneurodiversity, autism, ADHD, workplace inclusion, Understanding Zoe, neurodivergent support, AI in education, sensory accommodations, family support, neuroaffirming systemsAbout LaetitiaLinkedInWebsite: Understanding ZoeResearch: Making the Invisible Visible From therapy coordination to workplace stigma, NDIS navigation to school meetings, the 2025 Making the Invisible Visible report reveals what 1,091 Australian families experience every day. Families where 93% feel misunderstood or invisible, yet carry profound strength, hope, and love.Podcast: Neurodivergent Pulse on Spotify or Apple PodcastsAbout NicLinkedInGetting In ContactLinkedIn: The Inclusive ShiftInstagram: The Inclusive ShiftFacebook: The Inclusive ShiftSchedule a sessionhttps://calendly.com/nic-nagtzaam/podcast-interview

SummaryThis conversation explores the intersection of neuro-inclusive leadership and transformational leadership, emphasising the importance of understanding neurodiversity in creating effective workplace strategies. Laura Kendall shares insights from her lived experience and executive background, advocating for a future of work that is inclusive and designed to meet the diverse needs of all individuals.Keywordsneuro-inclusive leadership, transformational leadership, future of work, workplace inclusion, neurodiversity, leadership skills, organisational design, lived experience, effective leadership, workplace strategiesAbout LauraLinkedInNeuroFuelNeuroFuel - Services OfferedYouTubeAbout Nic⁠LinkedIn⁠Getting In ContactLinkedIn: ⁠⁠⁠⁠The Inclusive Shift⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠The Inclusive Shift⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠The Inclusive Shift⁠⁠⁠⁠Schedule a session⁠⁠⁠⁠https://calendly.com/nic-nagtzaam/podcast-interview

SummaryIn this episode of the Inclusive Shift, host Nic Nagtzaam interviews Maria Sigstad, CEO of Plovm, about building inclusive workplaces through universal design. Maria shares her personal experience as an autistic individual and discusses the importance of designing for human variation instead of solely focusing on diagnoses. The conversation covers topics like the challenges of masking, the role of technology in inclusion, and the need for structural changes in workplaces to support neurodivergent individuals better.KeywordsThe Inclusive Shift, neurodiversity, universal design, Maria Sigstad, Plovm, inclusion, workplace, neurodivergent, masking, technology, structural changes, autism, OCDAbout MariaLinkedInPlovm - LinkedInPlovm - WebsiteAbout NicLinkedInGetting In ContactLinkedIn: ⁠⁠⁠The Inclusive Shift⁠⁠⁠Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠The Inclusive Shift⁠⁠⁠Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠The Inclusive Shift⁠⁠⁠Schedule a session⁠⁠⁠https://calendly.com/nic-nagtzaam/podcast-interview

SummaryIn this episode of The Inclusive Shift, host Nic Nagtzaam speaks with Paul Micallef, founder of Autism from the Inside, about the importance of emotional intelligence in creating inclusive workplaces for neurodivergent individuals. Paul shares his journey from aerospace engineering to life coaching, emphasising the need for a structured approach to emotional intelligence. The conversation explores cultural differences in communication, the challenges faced by neurodivergent individuals, and practical tools for emotional regulation. Paul advocates for creating safe spaces and adapting communication styles to enhance engagement and understanding in the workplace. The episode concludes with a message of hope and encouragement for continuous personal development in emotional intelligence.Keywordsneurodiversity, emotional intelligence, workplace inclusion, autistic experience, communication styles, self-advocacy, emotional regulation, leadership, cultural perspectives, personal developmentAbout Paul:https://paulmicallef.com.auAutism from the insideAutistic Lived Experience Online Summit 2025CoursesLinkedInAbout Nic:⁠Linkedin⁠Getting In ContactLinkedIn: ⁠⁠The Inclusive Shift⁠⁠Instagram: ⁠⁠The Inclusive Shift⁠⁠Facebook: ⁠⁠The Inclusive Shift⁠⁠Schedule a session⁠⁠https://calendly.com/nic-nagtzaam/podcast-interview

SummaryIn this episode of The Inclusive Shift, Nic Nagtzaam speaks with Seamus Hart, a neurodiversity consultant and advocate, about his personal journey with late diagnoses of autism and ADHD. They discuss the challenges faced by neurodivergent individuals in the workplace, the importance of accommodations, and the need for psychological safety. Seamus shares insights on the grief associated with late diagnosis, the role of advocacy, and practical tools that can support neurodivergent individuals. The conversation emphasises the importance of understanding and supporting neurodiversity in professional environments.Keywordsneurodiversity, autism, ADHD, workplace inclusion, late diagnosis, psychological safety, accommodations, advocacy, community support, personal journeyAbout Shamus:LinkedInInstagramMediumAbout Nic:LinkedinGetting In ContactLinkedIn: ⁠The Inclusive Shift⁠Instagram: ⁠The Inclusive Shift⁠Facebook: ⁠The Inclusive Shift⁠Schedule a session⁠https://calendly.com/nic-nagtzaam/podcast-interview

SummaryIn this episode of the Inclusive Shift, host Nic Nagtzaam speaks with Rodie, a registered nurse and paramedic, about his experiences with dyslexia in the workplace. Rodie shares insights into the misconceptions surrounding dyslexia, the challenges he faces in high-pressure environments, and the importance of support and accommodations for neurodivergent individuals. He emphasises the need for open communication and understanding from colleagues and managers to create an inclusive work environment. Rhody also discusses the mental health impacts of lacking support and offers practical strategies for both individuals with dyslexia and their employers to foster a more supportive workplace culture.Keywordsneurodiversity, dyslexia, workplace inclusion, support strategies, mental health, accommodations, emergency services, education, learning disabilities, communicationAbout Nic⁠Linkedin⁠Getting In ContactLinkedIn: The Inclusive ShiftInstagram: The Inclusive ShiftFacebook: The Inclusive ShiftSchedule a sessionhttps://calendly.com/nic-nagtzaam/podcast-interview

Summary:In this episode, Nic Nagtzaam speaks with Alicia Chui, a trainee at Gumada AI Academy, about her experiences as a neurodivergent individual in the workplace. Alicia shares her journey of understanding her autism diagnosis, the challenges she faces in communication and social interactions, and the importance of creating inclusive environments for neurodivergent individuals. They discuss the strengths that come with neurodivergence, such as hyperfocus, and the need for community support and understanding from employers. Alicia also highlights the innovative project she is working on to connect autistic and ADHD job seekers with neuro-inclusive companies in Malaysia.Topics Covered:AlexithymiaDSM Criteria for AutismAutism Initiatives Malaysia - HighGamuda AI AcademyGamuda Enabling AcademyQuiet Room (Reset Rooms)Keywords:neurodiversity, workplace inclusion, autism, ADHD, Malaysia, neurodivergent, inclusive workplaces, community support, job seekers, strengths and challengesAbout Nic⁠⁠Linkedin⁠⁠Getting In ContactLinkedIn: ⁠The Inclusive Shift⁠Instagram: ⁠The Inclusive Shift⁠Facebook: ⁠The Inclusive Shift⁠Schedule a session⁠https://calendly.com/nic-nagtzaam/podcast-interview

SummaryIn this episode of The Inclusive Shift, host Nic Nagtzaam speaks with Amanda, a spatial scientist and neurodivergent professional, about her journey with inattentive ADHD and the challenges she faces in the workplace. They discuss the importance of creating inclusive environments for neurodivergent individuals, effective communication strategies, and the need for organisations to adapt their practices to support diverse cognitive styles. Amanda shares her experiences with task paralysis, rejection sensitivity, and the impact of her diagnosis on her self-perception. The conversation emphasises the significance of understanding and accommodating neurodiversity in professional settings, advocating for change, and fostering open communication.Keywordsneurodiversity, ADHD, inclusive workplace, task paralysis, rejection sensitivity, communication, workplace culture, neurodivergent support, mental health, employee advocacyAbout Nic⁠⁠Linkedin⁠⁠Getting In ContactLinkedIn: ⁠The Inclusive Shift⁠Instagram: ⁠The Inclusive Shift⁠Facebook: ⁠The Inclusive Shift⁠Schedule a session⁠https://calendly.com/nic-nagtzaam/podcast-interview

In this episode of The Inclusive Shift, host Nic Nagtzaam speaks with Clair, a supply chain and logistics professional, about their experiences with neurodivergence, particularly ADHD and the possibility of autism. They discuss the importance of creating inclusive workplaces that embrace neurodiversity, the challenges faced in communication and work dynamics, and the need for flexibility in work hours. Clair shares their journey of unmasking at work, the significance of clear communication, and the importance of ongoing dialogue between neurodivergent individuals and their colleagues. The conversation emphasises the value of understanding individual needs and adapting workplace practices to foster inclusivity and support for all employees.Keywordsneurodiversity, inclusive workplaces, ADHD, autism, communication, flexibility, workplace culture, support, supply chain, personal growthAbout Nic⁠⁠Linkedin⁠⁠Getting In ContactLinkedIn: ⁠The Inclusive Shift⁠Instagram: ⁠The Inclusive Shift⁠Facebook: ⁠The Inclusive Shift⁠Schedule a session⁠https://calendly.com/nic-nagtzaam/podcast-interview

In this episode of "The Inclusive Shift," host Nic Nagtzaam interviews Sarah, a neurodivergent professional, to examine the complexities of creating an inclusive workplace for individuals with ADHD and other neurodiverse conditions. Sarah shares her personal story, from being diagnosed early in life to navigating the professional realm. Key topics include the impact of early diagnosis, the challenges of entering the workforce without sufficient support, and the importance of structure and routine in managing neurodivergence. The discussion also covers the need for workplace accommodations, the influence of communication styles, and the importance of establishing a psychologically safe environment. Sarah provides valuable insights into how organisations can better support neurodiverse employees and encourage genuine inclusion. Tune in for an enlightening chat on embracing diversity and recognising the unique contributions of neurodivergent individuals.About Nic⁠⁠Linkedin⁠⁠Getting In ContactLinkedIn: ⁠The Inclusive Shift⁠Instagram: ⁠The Inclusive Shift⁠Facebook: ⁠The Inclusive Shift⁠Schedule a session⁠https://calendly.com/nic-nagtzaam/podcast-interview

In this episode, we delve into the unique challenges faced by Akhil with Combined ADHD in the workplace. Discover effective strategies to enhance productivity, communication, and focus. Akhil shares his personal story and practical tips to help you navigate and thrive in a professional environment. Whether you're an employee or employer, this episode offers valuable insights to foster a more inclusive and supportive workplace. Tune in to learn how to turn ADHD challenges into strengths!About Nic⁠⁠Linkedin⁠⁠Getting In ContactLinkedIn: ⁠The Inclusive Shift⁠Instagram: ⁠The Inclusive Shift⁠Facebook: ⁠The Inclusive Shift⁠Schedule a session⁠https://calendly.com/nic-nagtzaam/podcast-interview

Join us for the inaugural episode of "The Inclusive Shift," a podcast dedicated to exploring how workplaces can become truly inclusive for neurodivergent individuals. Host Nic invites neurodivergent individuals to share their stories and organizations to discuss their journey towards inclusivity. Whether you wish to share your story anonymously or as your authentic self, this podcast is a platform for voices that need to be heard. Tune in to discover inspiring stories and actionable insights on creating inclusive environments. #TheInclusiveShift #Neurodiversity #Inclusion