S1E2 - A Conversation on Ableism and Generational Differences with Becca Lory Hector

NeuroSpicy @ Work

Summary

The conversation explores the progress and challenges in advocating for neurodiversity in the workplace. It highlights the importance of disclosure and accommodations for autistic individuals. The speakers discuss the growth of the autistic community and the need for self-awareness and acceptance. They also address the intersectionality of autism and other identities, such as race and gender. The conversation emphasizes the need for a shift in workplace culture to prioritize humanity and individual needs. The conversation explores the challenges faced by autistic individuals in society and the workplace, including the pressure to blend in and the need for accommodations. It highlights the importance of understanding and accepting neurodiversity, as well as the need for proper diagnosis and support. The concept of autistic burnout is discussed, emphasizing the need for self-care and understanding. The conversation also touches on the benefits of working with neurodivergent individuals and the value they bring to the workplace.

Takeaways

Advocacy for neurodiversity in the workplace has made progress but there is still work to be done.
Disclosure and accommodations are important for autistic individuals in the workplace.
The autistic community has grown and gained a strong voice through technology and social media.
Workplaces need to prioritize humanity and individual needs to create a more inclusive environment.
The intersectionality of autism and other identities should be considered in discussions about neurodiversity at work. The attitude in the world is shifting towards accepting and embracing differences, rather than expecting individuals to blend in.
Autistic individuals often face challenges in society and the workplace due to misconceptions and lack of understanding.
Autistic burnout is a real and debilitating experience that requires proper recognition and support.
Working with neurodivergent individuals can bring unique perspectives and strengths to the workplace.

Titles

• The Growth of the Autistic Community
• Advocating for Neurodiversity in the Workplace The Value of Neurodivergent Individuals in the Workplace
• Embracing Neurodiversity: Shifting Attitudes towards Acceptance

Sound Bites

• "We took advantage of technology to build our own community, to give ourselves a voice."
• "If we could all unmask at work and be ourselves at work, how different would work be?"
• "The ability to look at yourself, the self-awareness at the top is inexistent."
• "Nobody should be blending in anymore."
• "Had I not been autistic, that would have absolutely never happened to me."
• "I could either be non-verbal autistic and then I would get some help, or I could be super high achieving 250,000 followers influencer and then I'm not autistic."

Chapters

00:00
Introduction and Advocacy for Autism

04:09
Progress and Changes in Understanding Autism in the Workplace

10:51
Unmasking and Authenticity in the Workplace

16:02
The Need for Big Changes in Workplace Culture

20:55
Redefining Work and Humaneness

23:52
The Role of the Younger Generation in Driving Change

27:19
The Struggle to Hide Differences and Find Acceptance

28:08
Understanding and Accommodating Neurodiversity

30:22
The Dangers of Autistic Burnout

35:50
The Strengths and Perspectives of Autistic Individuals

40:28
Working with Neurodivergent Teams

51:05
Late Diagnosis and the Importance of Sharing Experiences