Breaking out of the Cubicle: Rethinking Work and School for the Neurodivergent Community

“It's amazing that we have this tunnel vision around what success needs to look like, even though our society is filled with people who are wildly atypical.” Dr. Matt Zakreski is a dedicated clinical psychologist who's made it his mission to help harness the often overlooked abilities of the neurodivergent community – that’s anyone with a brain that works differently from the average or neurotypical person. Growing up as a gifted kid, Dr. Matt was neurodivergent himself. and saw firsthand how rigid practices in schools and workplaces can stifle the growth and talents of people in this community. When he started working as a child psychologies, he knew he wanted to help end the stigma about neurodivergence and help this population find success in school and work.Up to 20 percent of the world's population are considered neurodivergent. And that means potentially more than a billion people who are trying to learn and work in a system that wasn't designed for them. It’s time for a change in our expectations around around what “normal” work habits are.  In this episode, Dr. Matt tells us about the Neurodiversity Collective, his psychology practice that supports and advocates for neurodiverse people in educational and employment settings. And he explains how he helps people break out of conventional work expectations so they can unlock their unique strengths and share their incredible talents.About Dr. MattDr. Matthew Zakreski (affectionately known as “Dr. Matt”) is a seasoned clinical psychologist and professional speaker renowned for his expertise in serving neurodivergent individuals (people with different brains such as gifted, ADHD, Autism, and dyslexia). Dr. Matt thrives in supporting young people in understanding, developing, and celebrating their unique brains while developing strengths-based ways of operating in their world. He is best known for his work with gifted individuals as an advocate for using accessible understanding of neurodivergent needs to implement high-level supports. Having delivered over 500 talks all over the world, Dr. Matt has cultivated a reputation as a dynamic keynote speaker, captivating audiences with his insightful presentations and empowering messages.Connect with Dr. MattDr. Matt Zakreski WebsiteNeurodiversity CollectiveDr. Matt on LinkedInDr. Matt on InstagramAbout The BreakoutThe Breakout is the hit podcast hosted by human resources and change experts Dr. Keri Ohlrich and Kelly Guenther. The founders of Abbracci Group, a results-driven coaching, HR Management and consulting firm, Keri and Kelly are laser-focused on getting the best out of people. They launched The Breakout in early 2023 to find the best stories and advice on busting boundaries and making change, and since then the show has charted #1 in self-improvement, #1 in education, and #7 in all podcasts.Keri and Kelly’s new book Whatever the Hell You Want – An Escape Plan to Break Out of Life’s Little Boxes and Live Free From Expectations, is inspired by the show, and will be out in October 8 2024. It's available for pre-order now! Dr. Keri Ohlrich’s book The Way of the HR Warrior is available now.Join Keri and Kelly on The Breakout as they get advice and insights from change experts, and learn from people who have really done it how you can dive into personal growth, increase self confidence, and move your life into bold new territory.Each episode comes with lessons on living courageously, with topics on self-help, leadership, personal development, building success, setting personal boundaries, growing your confidence, overcoming self doubt, and knowing your self worth. From huge transformations to quiet shifts, The Breakout highlights why every change matters.At Abbracci Group, Keri and Kelly offer a four-step coaching process to help you increase your self-awareness, break out of expectations, and live life on your terms.  Learn more at abbraccigroup.com.Connect with Dr. Keri Ohlrich and Kelly Guentherhttps://www.instagram.com/thebreakoutpod/https://abbraccigroup.com/podcast/https://www.facebook.com/thebreakoutpodcast/https://www.linkedin.com/company/abbraccigroup/https://www.youtube.com/@thebreakoutpodcast