Episode Summary In this episode of Neurodivergent Spot, host Sam Marion interviews Maggie Beattie Roberts, an educator, author, and literacy consultant with expertise in ADHD and neurodiversity. Maggie shares her journey to understanding her own ADHD diagnosis, how it has influenced her professional and personal roles, and practical strategies for supporting neurodivergent students in the classroom. From the importance of classroom structure to allowing choice and agency, Maggie offers thoughtful insights and actionable advice for educators and parents alike. Quotes "Now that I have a greater understanding of my own neurodiversity, I can see things in students that I previously missed." "Different bodies need different things in order to pull off focus and regulation." "Don’t underestimate the power of kid watching—just observing a child engage in a task can offer profound insights into their learning process." Connect with Maggie Instagram: @kateandmaggie (https://www.instagram.com/kate_and_maggie/) TikTok: @kateandmaggie (https://www.tiktok.com/@kateandmaggie) Website: kateandmaggie.com (https://www.kateandmaggie.com/) Keywords Neurodivergence ADHD Education Classroom strategies Literacy Neurodiversity Executive functioning Student support Parenting Teacher resources Follow the show to make sure you don't miss any episodes! You can also connect with me on Instagram on my show page @NeurodivergentSpot (https://www.instagram.com/neurodivergentspot/)or my professional page @sammarioncounseling (https://www.instagram.com/sammarioncounseling/). Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Episode Summary: In this episode of the Neurodivergent Spot, host Sam Marion chats with Courtney Peebles, the owner and founder of Solobo Toys. Courtney shares her personal journey of discovering her neurodivergence, which began when her brother was diagnosed with autism, sparking a series of family diagnoses. She discusses how her understanding of her own ADHD, autism, and OCD has informed her approach to creating toys that cater to neurodivergent children while still being enjoyable for all. Courtney also opens up about the challenges she faces as a neurodivergent business owner, balancing her commitment to her family and her mission to design simple, educational toys. This inspiring conversation highlights the values that make Solobo Toys unique and Courtney's dedication to fostering inclusivity and creativity. Shop Solobo Toys (https://solobotoys.com/SAM10) Promo code: SAM10 Quotes “When I got diagnosed, I was like, all of this makes sense… it’s enabled me to actually allow myself to be who I am and give more supports to myself.” “We wanted literally simple toys that could allow [children] to look at those educational concepts that they loved… but allow kids the freedom to just be themselves within play.” “We’ve made [family caregiving] our core values… in the business world, that could be seen as a bad thing, but we’ve found that people resonate with what we experience and stay as frequent customers.” Connect with Courtney: Instagram: @solobotoys (https://instagram.com/solobotoys) Website: Solobo Toys (https://solobotoys.com/SAM10) Keywords Neurodivergence Autism ADHD Toy design Inclusive play Family-owned business Cerebral palsy Simplicity in play Solobo Toys Resilience Community Neurodivergent challenges Follow the show to make sure you don't miss any episodes! You can also connect with me on Instagram on my show page @NeurodivergentSpot (https://www.instagram.com/neurodivergentspot/)or my professional page @sammarioncounseling (https://www.instagram.com/sammarioncounseling/). Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Episode Summary In this enlightening episode of Neurodivergent Spot, Sam Marion sits down with Charlie Ocean (they/them), a dynamic speaker, trainer, and consultant specializing in LGBTQ+ allyship and neurodivergent inclusion in the workplace. Charlie shares their journey of self-discovery, from recognizing ADHD and autism through TikTok, to developing inclusive practices in the workplace and beyond. They reflect on their experiences navigating neurodivergence, advocating for LGBTQ+ and neurodivergent individuals, and redefining systems to create spaces of belonging. Charlie also delves into the concept of being "neuroqueer" and its personal significance. Whether you're neurodivergent or an ally, this episode offers valuable insights into fostering inclusive environments for all. Quotes "My neurodivergence, especially my ADHD and autism, shows up in all of my backgrounds, pushing me to think holistically about inclusion—especially in spaces that claim to be progressive but often overlook accessibility needs." "Neuroqueer is my way of articulating the intersection between my neurodivergence and my queerness—it helps me find others at the same intersection and allows me to be the most me possible." "Advocating for yourself as a neurodivergent person is essential because otherwise, you'll end up in environments that aren't good for you, leaving you feeling bitter and resentful." Connect with Charlie Learn more about Charlie Ocean's work at HiCharlieOcean.com (http://HiCharlieOcean.com), where they offer speaking, training, and consulting services focused on inclusivity for LGBTQ+ and neurodivergent communities. Keywords ADHD and Autism in the Workplace LGBTQ+ Allyship and Neurodivergence Neuroqueer Identity Inclusive Workplace Practices ADHD Diagnosis Journey Autism and Advocacy Neurodivergent Inclusion Charlie Ocean Interview Follow the show to make sure you don't miss any episodes! You can also connect with me on Instagram on my show page @NeurodivergentSpot (https://www.instagram.com/neurodivergentspot/)or my professional page @sammarioncounseling (https://www.instagram.com/sammarioncounseling/). Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Episode Summary In this insightful episode of Neurodivergent Spot, host Sam Marion sits down with Dr. Taylor Day, a child psychologist specializing in neurodiversity-affirming care for autistic children and their families. With over a decade of experience, Dr. Tay shares her journey, from growing up with an autistic brother to becoming a leading advocate for strength-based, individualized therapy. Dr. Tay emphasizes the importance of recognizing the child as a human first and building strategies that promote autonomy, self-advocacy, and a better quality of life. Quotes “We need to see the human first, understand their strengths, and focus on how to improve their quality of life.” “It’s about meeting the child where they are and ensuring the therapy is collaborative, not adult-led.” “Vulnerability is the connection point we need as humans, especially in therapy.” Connect with Dr. Tay: Instagram: @the.dr.tay (https://www.instagram.com/the.dr.tay) Website: Dr. Taylor Day (http://drtaylorday.com) Podcast: Evolve with Dr. Tay (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/evolve-with-dr-tay-the-podcast-for-parents-of-autistic-kids/id1659784037) Keywords: Neurodiversity-affirming care Child psychologist Dr. Tay Autism and therapy Parent coaching for autism Strength-based therapy for autistic children Evidence-based practices vs. neurodiversity Child-led exposure therapy Autistic self-advocacy in therapy Neurodivergent Spot podcast Follow the show to make sure you don't miss any episodes! You can also connect with me on Instagram on my show page @NeurodivergentSpot or my professional page @sammarioncounseling. Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Neurodivergent Spot is a brand new show that puts a spotlight on behind the scenes elements of the neurodiversity world. Sam Marion, a multiply neurodivergent therapist, speaker, and creator, interviews guests who have range of experiences with neurodivergence. Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.