Understanding neurodiversity in the corporate world with Kristen Light

Authentic Living

Roxanne Derhodge engages with Kristen Light in a thought-provoking discussion about neurodiversity's role and implications in the corporate world. Kristen candidly shares her personal neurodivergence journey, including the concept of 'masking'. The conversation delves into the stigma surrounding therapy and mental health, authenticity struggles, and societal expectations. Emphasizing the power of diversity in problem-solving, they underscore mental health as a business strategy. They also offer guidance for leaders to aid neurodiversity in the workplace and discuss Kristen's neuro inclusion program. The episode wraps up with a glimpse into Roxanne's new book, "ROR: Return on Relationships".

Senior engagement strategist, vintage dancer and award-winning speaker, Kristin Light has split her eclectic career between the boardroom and the ballroom. As a vivacious showgirl and co-founder of multiple successful companies, she is perhaps the last person you'd expect to be dealing with both mental and cognitive disabilities. But following a brush with suicide that left her confined to a psychiatric ward (twice!), she now speaks out to demystify mental health and neurodivergence at both work and play.

connect with Award-Winning Speaker • Published Author [e-mail] @kristinlight.ca

(0:00) Introduction to Authentic Living and guest Kristen Light (5:11) Neurodiversity: Understanding and implications in the corporate world (9:15) Kristen's personal journey with neurodivergence and the concept of 'masking' (14:17) Confronting the stigma around therapy and mental health (17:33) Struggles with authenticity and societal expectations (20:29) The power of diversity in problem-solving and mental health as a business strategy (26:35) Advice for leaders on supporting neurodiversity in the workplace (30:24) Kristen's neuro inclusion program and the importance of inclusion in every role (32:05) Roxanne's new book, "ROR: Return on Relationships" and closing remarks (32:40) End of the episode and contact information for Roxanne