The Neurodiverse Lens: A CDL Podcast

Episode 3: Advocating TogetherMonday, March 23 | Hosts: Jordan + CarolynWhat advocacy looks like when it’s relational and collaborative, Advocating with, not for, neurodivergent individuals, & Everyday examples

Episode 2: Learning TogetherMonday, March 9 | Hosts: Jordan + OliviaThe brilliance of neurodivergent learning styles: creativity, hyperfocus, problem‑solving, Barriers created by “good student” stereotypes & Simple, friendly explanations of UDL in action

Episode 1: Understanding Together Monday, March 2 | Hosts: Jordan + CarolynPersonal stories about evolving understandings of neurodiversity, Gentle examples of common misunderstandings

The Hidden Toll of Masking | The Neurodiverse Lens Podcast (Episode 11)Masking is often seen as a survival skill for neurodiverse individuals — but the emotional and mental toll can be heavy. In this episode, Carolyn and Jordan unpack what masking really is, why it starts so young, and how it impacts identity, relationships, and the ability to feel safe as your authentic self.Whether you’re neurodiverse or an ally, this conversation highlights why understanding masking is key to reducing burnout and building environments where people truly belong.Sponsored by Artemis Assessment & Treatment CentreFeaturing Fidgety Squirrel, their ADHD-friendly children’s mascot!👇 Chapters00:00 – Welcome & episode intro00:28 – What is masking?05:59 – Gendered masking & social expectations09:05 – The hidden weight of “not fitting in”16:26 – Burnout, shame & mental health impacts22:00 – How allies can create safe spaces26:30 – Building a world where masking isn’t required29:07 – Final reflections & learn more at diverselearners.ca🔔 New episodes every two weeks — subscribe to join the conversation.Learn more about the Centre for Diverse Learners: diverselearners.ca#NeurodiverseLens #Masking #Neurodiversity #Autism #ADHD #MentalHealth #Unmasking #InclusiveCommunities #CentreForDiverseLearners

In this episode, we chat with author and creative director Sarah Furlong, whose children’s book Every Brain is Beautiful introduces neurodiversity to young readers in a way that celebrates differences and fosters empathy.We explore early education, representation in storytelling, and how families and educators can start meaningful conversations about neurodiversity.00:00 — Welcome to The Neurodiverse Lens00:30 — Meet Sarah Furlong: author, parent, and creative director01:15 — The story behind Every Brain is Beautiful02:50 — Why it’s important to introduce neurodiversity early04:00 — Using animals and soft colours to ensure inclusion05:30 — Feedback from parents and educators06:00 — Expanding the Every Brain series: ADHD, Autism, Dyslexia & more07:00 — Sarah’s new book Mission Pancake and its fun approach to ADHD08:00 — Introducing StoryA: personalized storytelling through the mail09:30 — How personalized letters encourage kids to read10:40 — Empowering kids through accurate labels and diagnosis12:00 — Teaching self-advocacy at home and in classrooms13:00 — How teachers and parents can use these books to start conversations14:30 — Building inclusive environments through early understanding15:30 — What’s next for Sarah: expanding Every Brain and launching StoryA16:00 — The power of inclusive storytelling in shaping communities18:00 — Where to find Sarah’s books and StoryA19:40 — Closing thoughts and CDL resources⏱️ Timestamps

Social Emotional Learning | The Neurodiverse Lens PodcastGuest: Olivia Fong, Social Emotional Program Manager at the Centre for Diverse LearnersHost: Jordan Handley-Passalacqua, Communications ManagerExplore how social emotional learning (SEL) supports neurodiverse students—and how parents, educators, and communities can help build confidence, resilience, and connection.⏱️ Timestamps:00:00 – Intro to The Neurodiverse Lens & Olivia Fong01:00 – Olivia’s journey from volunteer to program manager02:30 – Why SEL matters for neurodiverse learners04:15 – What SEL looks like in practice (yes, it can be messy!)06:00 – Common SEL challenges neurodiverse students face08:00 – Inside the Friendships & Relationships program10:00 – Executive Functioning & Social Skills: real-life impact11:30 – Homework Health: free tutoring & mental health support13:00 – Friendship Club PA Day program announcement14:45 – Student success stories that stick with us17:00 – How $42/month can take a child off our waitlist19:00 – Practical takeaways for parents21:00 – SEL strategies educators can use23:00 – Free resource calls for Halton families24:45 – Olivia’s hopes for the future of SEL at CDL26:00 – Final thoughts and how to support our work🔗 Learn more or donate: https://diverselearners.ca📩 Contact us: [email protected]📱 Follow us on social media: @diverselearners

October is Learning Disabilities Awareness Month—and we’re busting myths, sharing real stories from our programs, and talking about what actually helps kids thrive. Carolyn and Jordan unpack what an LD is (and isn’t), why direct, evidence-based instruction matters, and how strengths like creative problem-solving and resilience show up when students get the right supports.We spotlight CDL programs that take a whole-child approach:• Leaps in Literacy (systematic, phonics-based small groups)• Mastering Mathematics (multi-sensory, foundations-first)• Executive Functioning (planning, organizing, study skills)• Social Skills: Friendships & Relationships (communication, regulation)• Homework Health (drop-in homework help + on-site youth mental health workers)• Friendship Club (facilitated connection and belonging)You’ll also hear an update for Halton and Hamilton families: free Parent Support Appointments are now available to both regions—book at diverselearners.ca (look for “Parent Support Appointment”).If this conversation moves you, the most impactful way to help is to become a monthly donor.$42/month (~$1.40/day) takes a child off our waitlist and into a program with trained educators. Donate at diverselearners.ca/donate.Want to get involved in other ways?Volunteer or share this episode to boost our reach: diverselearners.ca/get-involved • [email protected] note: brief mention of a family fleeing domestic violence.More about the Centre for Diverse Learners: diverselearners.ca

The Neurodiverse Lens – Episode 7Disclosing Neurodiversity in the Workplace: When, Why & HowDisclosure is a deeply personal decision. In this episode, Carolyn and Jordan unpack the complexities of sharing your neurodiversity at work—why you might disclose, what the risks are, and how to navigate accommodations while protecting your mental health. From personal stories to practical advice, this conversation explores the balance between advocacy and self-preservation in workplaces that are not always neurodiverse-friendly.🔎 Whether you’ve disclosed, are considering it, or prefer to keep it private, this episode provides strategies, support, and reassurance that every choice is valid.00:01 – Welcome & introduction00:27 – What does disclosure mean in the workplace?02:02 – The impact of stigma and unconscious bias03:41 – Carolyn’s personal disclosure journey05:42 – Accommodations that could have helped earlier06:57 – Types of disclosure: HR vs. full workplace openness08:46 – Positive and negative stories from disclosing10:59 – Risks: promotions, unconscious bias, and legal rights13:09 – Navigating workplace disclosure step by step15:10 – How disclosure can build understanding (LASIK story)17:19 – Self-advocacy and small workplace accommodations19:55 – Handling toxic workplaces and self-accommodations23:07 – First steps if you’re considering disclosure25:00 – CDL training and workplace supports

Welcome back to The Neurodiverse Lens, a CDL podcast where Carolyn and Jordan explore everyday challenges and solutions through a neurodiverse lens.In this episode, we take a deep dive into executive functioning—what it is, why it matters, and how it shows up at home, in school, and during daily routines. We discuss how executive functioning impacts children (especially those with ADHD), what “paper amnesia” really means, and how to reduce conflict around transitions, homework, and chores.🎧 Whether you're a parent, caregiver, educator, or simply want to better understand executive functioning, this episode offers practical strategies, mindset shifts, and validation for everyone on the journey.🧠 Learn more about our free programs and workshops at:👉 https://www.diverselearners.ca📅 Book a free Resource Call (Halton families):👉https://diverselearners.ca/resource-facilitation/ 📲 Follow us for more:Instagram: @neurodiverselensFacebook: Centre for Diverse Learners⏱️ Timestamps / Chapters:00:00 – Welcome to The Neurodiverse Lens00:40 – What is Executive Functioning?01:30 – The Hidden Impact on Daily Routines02:30 – Planning, Prioritizing, and Working Memory04:00 – Emotional Regulation & Meltdowns05:00 – Real-Life Examples of Executive Dysfunction06:30 – Executive Functioning & School Fatigue08:00 – Signs Parents Might See at Home09:30 – Transitions and Emotional Reactions10:30 – Homework Stress vs. Ability11:30 – Strategies: Visual Schedules & Prompts13:00 – Paper Amnesia: A Real Challenge14:30 – Building Autonomy with Gradual Support16:00 – Parent Frustration & Real-Life Parenting18:00 – Sibling Dynamics & Celebrating Small Wins20:00 – Marriage, Understanding, and Neurodiversity22:00 – Mindset Shift: It’s Not a Choice23:00 – CDL Programs for Executive Functioning24:00 – Free Support for Hamilton Families24:30 – Closing Thoughts and How to Get Help

Summer break can be both exciting and overwhelming—especially for families with neurodiverse children. In this episode, Carolyn and Jordan from the Centre for Diverse Learners explore how to plan for smoother transitions, manage expectations, and care for both your child’s and your own mental health.Whether it’s camp drop-off jitters, changing routines, or feeling pressure to create the “perfect summer,” this episode offers validation, encouragement, and practical tools to help families thrive.Timestamps00:00 – Introduction & why summer can be tough for neurodiverse families01:20 – Tip #1: Don’t do a countdown to summer03:00 – Preparing for transitions (camp, travel, visits)06:00 – Talking with grandparents, relatives, and other caregivers09:30 – Visual schedules and planning for overwhelm13:00 – Co-regulation and calming strategies in public17:30 – Giving yourself permission to slow down20:30 – The myth of the “perfect summer”26:00 – CDL’s Friendship Club and how you can get involved28:30 – Final thoughts: Let go of guilt and embrace what works for your family🌐 Learn more or register for summer programs at: diverselearners.ca📞 Book a free resource call💛 Consider donating to support programs like Friendship Club🎙️ If you found this helpful, be sure to like, share, and subscribe!

Welcome to The Neurodiverse Lens, a CDL podcast hosted by Carolyn and Jordan. In this episode, we explore the relationship between neurodiversity and mental health, sharing personal experiences, research insights, and practical self-care strategies.Disclaimer: This episode reflects personal perspectives and experiences and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider.Time Stamps:0:00 Introduction and Disclaimer1:25 Our Message3:02 Neurodiversity and Depression6:26 Fitting into a Neurotypical World15:10 Children Might Not Have the Language17:10 Neurodiversity Might NOT be a Superpower23:20 Finding Support31:00 Self Care38:55 Resource Calls Call to ActionEnjoyed this episode? Subscribe to The Neurodiverse Lens for more conversations that center and support neurodiverse individuals and families.🌐 Learn more about us: https://diverselearners.ca📧 Email Us: [email protected] Follow Us📸 Instagram: @neurodiverselens▶️ YouTube: @NeurodiverseLens🎵 TikTok: @neurodiverselens📘 Facebook: The Neurodiverse Lens🧵 Threads: @neurodiverselens🎙️ Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and wherever you get your podcasts!#Neurodiversity #MentalHealthAwareness #TheNeurodiverseLens #CentreForDiverseLearners #Podcast

What makes a workplace truly inclusive—and how can employers break down the barriers that hold neurodiverse employees back? In this episode, we explore the strengths and challenges neurodiverse individuals experience at work, from navigating social situations to adapting to rigid environments and expectations.We dive into what inclusive practices actually look like: clear, consistent communication, multiple formats for instructions, thoughtful accommodations, and the power of technology and flexible workspaces. We also tackle workplace stigma—how language shapes culture, and why leaders must be role models in building neuro-inclusive spaces.Whether you're an employer, co-worker, or neurodiverse professional yourself, this episode offers practical insights on how to create a workplace where everyone can shine.

Join us as we delve into practical strategies for embracing social challenges and building meaningful connections. In this episode, you'll learn how to:Embrace the challenge and seek out helpers.Share your strengths and weaknesses while embracing others.Relieve the pressure to be "normal" and set your own norms.Build and maintain friendships by allowing people to be who they are.Navigate dating and relationships as a neurodiverse person, including the decision to disclose or not.Watch for red flags of abuse and understand that you deserve to be loved.Understand the impact of masking and the importance of authenticity.Recharge your energy and recognize when you are masking.Remember, it doesn’t have to be all or nothing. Tune in to learn how to overcome social anxiety and communication challenges with confidence and compassion.

In our first episode, we dive into the real experiences of parenting neurodiverse children — the challenges, the triumphs, and everything in between. We explore common struggles parents face, including judgment from others, managing emotional stress, and the importance of both parents staying on the same page.You'll hear practical advice on advocating for your child in schools and the community, working as a productive partner with teachers, and navigating the often confusing process of assessments and accommodations. We also share tips for building a neurodiverse-affirming home environment, creating consistency, allowing positive off-ramps, and — most importantly — giving yourself grace.From managing IEP meetings to knowing when to bring an advocate, this episode is packed with relatable stories and actionable strategies for supporting your child while finding support for yourself.