Turning Neurodiversity Barriers Into Benefits

On episode 211, Emily Kircher-Morris talks with Brooke Schnittman, founder of Coaching with Brooke and author of Activate Your ADHD Potential. They discuss the barriers faced by ADHDers, the strengths of ADHD brains, the influence of the neurodiversity framework, the shift in our understanding of ADHD, the importance of structure and systems, her favorite tool for getting thoughts out of the head, and more. It’s a great conversation with plenty of usable advice and ideas. Key takeaways: ADHDers often face barriers in trying to fit into societal expectations and meet the demands of teachers and employers. ADHD brains have strengths such as creativity, problem-solving, and intuition that should be explored and harnessed. The neurodiversity framework has influenced the understanding and approach to ADHD, emphasizing the need for structure and support tailored to individual strengths and learning styles. Getting thoughts out of the head and onto paper or through external processing can help with organization and reduce overwhelm. A message to a younger self with ADHD would be that it's going to be okay and that with the right tools and support, control can be gained over ADHD symptoms. This episode is brought to you by the Council for Exceptional Children, dedicated to high-quality education that is inclusive and equitable for individuals with disabilities and/or gifts and talents. Attend their Annual Convention & Expo, March 13-16, 2024 in San Antonio, Texas. Register now at cecconvention.org/, and if you’re a school principal, receive free registration by using the code 24CEC100. Brooke Schnittman is an esteemed expert in the field of ADHD management and support. She founded Coaching With Brooke in 2018, and offers tailored programs and strategies to support her clients with time management, organization, emotional regulation and self-advocacy. Brooke was diagnosed with ADHD later in life, and shares her passion as a public speaker and advocate. Her work has been featured on prominent media outlets such as Forbes, Entrepreneur, ADDitude Magazine, CBS and NBC, and has received a number of accolades in the ADHD community. Brooke has a Bachelor's in Elementary Education from Penn State University, and a Master's Degree from New York University, specializing in Students With Disabilities. BACKGROUND READING Facebook Instagram X (formerly Twitter) Brooke’s website Book - Activate Your ADHD Potential