Neurodivergent Spot Podcast

In this heartfelt solo episode of Neurodivergent Spot, host Sam Marion reflects on the journey of creating the podcast and the community that has grown around it. Sam opens up about what inspired the show, what he’s learned from guests and listeners, and why this moment feels like the right time to pause. He shares honest reflections on overwhelm, creativity, gratitude, and what’s next — including writing, speaking, and new projects that align with his energy and values.

In this episode, Sonya Janisse shares her powerful late-in-life realization that she is neurodivergent and had been living in survival mode for most of her life. She opens up about growing up without emotional safety, masking for decades, and ultimately finding healing through nervous system work, movement, mindset, and community. Sonya now helps others break free from burnout and build aligned lives rooted in self-trust.

In this episode of Neurodivergent Spot, Sam talks with Dr. Emily Levy, founder and director of EBL Coaching—a specialized tutoring program using multisensory, research-based techniques to support neurodivergent learners. Emily shares her journey from finance to education, the evolution of her workbook series, and her insights on collaboration between families, tutors, and schools to best support students’ growth and confidence.

In this episode of Neurodivergent Spot, host Sam Marion sits down with Sara Hartley—healthcare executive, ADHD & neurodiversity coach, and children’s book author—to explore her late-diagnosis journey, her experience raising two neurodivergent sons, and her creative work supporting families. Sara introduces her concept of eco-parenting, where children’s behaviors mirror back opportunities for parents’ own growth, and shares her trademarked Align Parenting Method, a five-step tool to help parents regulate, repair, and reconnect in challenging moments. She also talks about her upcoming Purposefully Me children’s book series designed to help neurodivergent kids feel seen, empowered, and understood.

In this episode of Neurodivergent Spot, host Sam Marion talks with therapist, adventurer, and writer Lincoln Stoller about resilience, risk, and radical independence. Lincoln shares stories from his life as a mountaineer, plane crash survivor, scientist, and psychotherapist, weaving them into reflections on what it means to live with purpose and commitment. He challenges conventional approaches to therapy, emphasizing altered states, dreams, and emotional truth over purely intellectual reasoning. This conversation dives into survival, commitment, and the importance of pushing beyond the familiar in order to create meaning and light in the world.

In this episode of Neurodivergent Spot, host Sam Marion speaks with writer, speaker, and advocate Sunita Theiss about her journey as an autistic, ADHD, and PDA mom raising two neurodivergent children. Sunita shares how discovering her own and her children’s diagnoses reshaped her family’s rhythms, shifting from control to collaboration and redefining what success, grace, and achievement mean. She opens up about balancing cultural expectations, faith-based community dynamics, and the realities of neurodivergent parenting with honesty and vulnerability.

In this episode of Neurodivergent Spot, host Sam Marion speaks with Lyndal Bedford—a clinical social worker and community development advocate—about the powerful intersection of faith, spiritual trauma, and neurodivergent inclusion. Lyndal discusses how people who remain within faith communities can heal from spiritual harm, the importance of building compassionate, accepting spaces, and how bridging faith-based and secular supports can foster belonging and holistic well-being.

In this heartfelt episode, Jacob Nordby—author, father, and founder of The Institute for Creative Living—joins Sam Marion to explore the deep connection between creativity, neurodivergence, and healing. Jacob shares personal stories about unmasking, parenting neurodivergent children, and rediscovering his own inner artist during a time of personal crisis. Together, they reflect on how embracing creativity can serve as a powerful tool for emotional regulation, identity integration, and reconnecting with life force.

In this special solo episode, Sam reflects on turning 40 and the lifelong journey of discovering and embracing multiple neurodivergent identities. From being labeled gifted as a child to navigating adult identification of ADHD, a reading disability, and autism, Sam shares candid stories of missteps, masking, and finding clarity. This episode is a raw, honest look at identity, growth, and the pursuit of authenticity in both personal and professional life.

Asher Walden joins Neurodivergent Spot to explore how neurodivergent people often experience and interpret spirituality differently. He shares his journey of late-in-life autism discovery and how it led to the creation of the Empyrean Deck—a tool for finding meaning outside traditional religious frameworks. This thoughtful conversation invites listeners to consider new ways of approaching the sacred through personal experience.

In this powerful episode, Sam Marion speaks with educator and kink community leader Cat Orme about her late ADHD diagnosis and how that lens has reshaped her understanding of herself and her work. Cat shares how neurodivergent needs are actively centered in the BDSM spaces she helps create—from sensory-informed negotiation forms to simple but impactful accommodations like the "off-limits couch." This conversation explores intersectionality, shame, compassion, and the profound value of designing environments where people feel seen and safe.

In this episode of Neurodivergent Spot, Sam Marion talks with Iris Wong, a neurodivergent parent, educator, and creator of EF Toolkit. Iris shares her journey navigating career transitions, burnout, and identity shifts—especially after an adult neurodivergent discovery. They reflect on the challenges of aligning one’s life with personal values, embracing nonlinear paths, and honoring sensory and emotional needs. The conversation touches on redefining success, the concept of emotionally based school absences, and the importance of community connection and creative outlets. Iris’s insights offer hope and validation for those making big life transitions while trying to stay true to themselves.

In this episode, comedian, author, and podcast host Kym Kral joins Sam Marion for a vulnerable and hilarious conversation about neurodivergence, creativity, and self-worth. Kym shares how she discovered her ADHD diagnosis later in life, what stand-up comedy taught her about humanity, and the strategies she uses to quiet self-doubt and nurture joy. From journaling to her “happy list,” Kym offers practical tools for surviving (and thriving) in a world that wasn’t built for neurodivergent minds. The episode also delves into the emotional challenges of success, navigating toxic relationships, and why rest shouldn’t be a guilt trip.

In this episode, Sam Marion speaks with Erin Alexander—neurodivergent parent, educator, and artist—about her journey through online and offline advocacy, the importance of community care, and the daily realities of parenting autistic children. They explore how Erin balances her own needs with those of her children, how she navigates social media with intention, and how micro-moments of regulation can build sustainability for caregivers. The conversation offers both encouragement and tangible insights for neurodivergent families and advocates.

In this solo episode of Neurodivergent Spot, Sam Marion shares personal updates and reflections on recent changes, national events, and the evolving landscape of neurodiversity advocacy. Sam discusses why the podcast is shifting to a biweekly release schedule and reflects on his experiences presenting at major national conferences. He also dives into important and heavy current events, including the death of Victor Perez and concerning political rhetoric about autism. Drawing on his background as a trauma therapist and lived experience as a multiply neurodivergent person, Sam offers heartfelt insights on the intersections of race, disability, policing, and advocacy. This candid episode invites listeners to reflect, stay connected, and continue pushing for a world that recognizes and affirms neurodivergent lives.

In this episode of Neurodivergent Spot, Sam Marion talks with ADHD productivity and technology coach Brittany Smith. With a background in cognitive neuroscience, Brittany brings insight and humor to a conversation about burnout, brain breaks, body doubling, and the surprising power of the right tech tools. They discuss common myths about productivity, how to work with your brain, and the importance of joyful downtime.

In this powerful episode, Sam Marion sits down with Erick Petterman—brain aneurysm survivor, dyslexic adult, and emotional healing coach—to discuss neurodivergence, trauma, and the journey from shame to self-empowerment. Erick shares his personal story of surviving childhood bullying, living with dyslexia before it was widely understood, and healing from a life-changing brain aneurysm. He now helps others overcome low-vibration emotions and reclaim their identity as victors, not victims. This episode explores acquired neurodivergence, emotional healing practices, and the importance of identifying core values.

In this episode of Neurodivergent Spot, Sam Marion is joined by Sarah Templeton, an expert in neurodiversity, to discuss the critical issue of the school-to-prison pipeline and its impact on neurodivergent children, especially those with ADHD and autism. Sarah emphasizes the importance of recognizing early warning signs in schools and the role of teachers in providing the right support to prevent exclusion and negative outcomes. Sarah also explores the systemic lack of neurodiversity training in education and how better understanding can help avoid the stigmatization of neurodivergent students.

In this episode of Neurodivergent Spot, host Sam Marion sits down with ADHD coach Olivia Rose to discuss neurodivergence, productivity, and the importance of rest. Olivia shares insights from her own late ADHD diagnosis, her experiences supporting working mothers and adults with ADHD, and the balance between ambition and peace. Together, they explore why slowing down can be the key to sustainable success and how different seasons of life require different approaches to productivity.

In this episode of Neurodivergent Spot, host Sam Marion speaks with Shane Thrapp, CEO of Creating Order from Chaos, an ADHD life coaching organization. Shane is also an operations director for the Men's ADHD Support Group and a consultant helping businesses implement neurodivergent-friendly accommodations. They discuss Shane’s personal journey navigating ADHD and autism, the challenges neurodivergent individuals face in understanding themselves, and the critical need for updated education on neurodivergence. Shane also shares insights into workplace accommodations and the importance of aligning work with personal values.

In this episode of Neurodivergent Spot, host Sam Marion speaks with Shara Tipton, a multiply neurodivergent executive function coach with a background in public school teaching. Shara shares insights into her neurodivergent journey, the challenges of executive dysfunction, and the importance of rest in self-management. They discuss the impact of shame in neurodivergent experiences, the transition from teaching to coaching, and practical strategies for overcoming demand avoidance. Shara also highlights the significance of meeting basic needs before tackling executive function struggles.

In this episode of Neurodivergent Spot, Sam Marion talks with Julia DeNey, founder of Sense-ational You, a company creating adaptive apparel with built-in sensory tools for autistic and ADHD children. Julia shares her journey from studying fashion design at Cornell University to working in special education and developing products that meet the unique needs of neurodivergent kids. Tune in for insights on inclusive fashion, sensory-friendly clothing, and the intersection of design and neurodiversity.

In this episode of Neurodivergent Spot, host Sam Marion welcomes Sam Mitchell, the creator of Autism Rocks and Rolls, a podcast dedicated to sharing the experiences and perspectives of autistic individuals. Sam discusses his journey with autism, his passion for podcasting, and his advocacy work, which includes public speaking and nonprofit efforts. He shares insights on the challenges autistic individuals face, the importance of structured yet accepting environments, and how he balances his many commitments using intentional organization. This conversation offers valuable perspectives on embracing neurodivergent strengths and building inclusive spaces.

In this episode of Neurodivergent Spot, host Sam Marion speaks with Ellen Busch, a dyslexia advocate, speaker, and mentor, about her journey navigating neurodivergence. Ellen shares how early diagnoses of dyslexia came with low expectations from the education system and how she fought against stigma to redefine her strengths. She discusses the impact of internalized ableism, the vulnerability neurodivergent individuals can face, and the power of reframing dyslexia as a super ability. Through advocacy and mentorship, Ellen now helps others embrace their differences and thrive.

In this episode of Neurodivergent Spot, host Sam Marion sits down with Shea Belsky—autistic self-advocate, tech lead at HubSpot, and former startup CTO—to explore the intersections of neurodivergence and the tech industry. Shea shares insights on self-advocacy, workplace communication, and the importance of self-care in high-pressure environments. From navigating career growth to fostering inclusive spaces, this conversation sheds light on what it means to thrive as a neurodivergent professional in tech.

In the final episode of Season 1 of Neurodivergent Spot, host Sam Marion takes the hot seat, answering six thoughtful questions he typically asks his guests. Sam reflects on his personal neurodivergent journey, his motivations for starting the podcast, the themes that emerged during interviews, and his hopes for listeners. With vulnerability and authenticity, he shares what neurodiversity means to him, celebrates the success of the first season, and provides a glimpse into what’s next.

In this episode of Neurodivergent Spot, host Sam Marion welcomes Eva Ceja—actor, writer, producer, and late-diagnosed neurodivergent individual. Eva shares her transformative journey of self-awareness, beginning with a major life transition that led to her autism and ADHD diagnoses. Through her passion for acting, Eva explored the human condition, honing her ability to understand and portray others while masking her neurodivergence. Together, Sam and Eva dive into topics such as masking, late diagnoses, systems for thriving as a neurodivergent adult, and the power of self-compassion.

In this episode of Neurodivergent Spot, host Sam Marion interviews Chris Wenger, a high school speech therapist and advocate for neurodiversity-affirming practices. Chris shares his journey with ADHD, how his lived experience informs his work, and his approach to fostering authentic connections in therapy. From empowering students to embrace their differences to using creative tools like TikTok, Chris highlights the power of authenticity and empathy in building a more inclusive world.

In this episode, we sit down with Claire Jordan, a freelance graphic designer and adjunct instructor at the University of Georgia's New Media Institute. Claire, who identifies as both autistic and living with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), shares her journey of self-discovery and how her neurodivergence has shaped her career, creativity, and teaching style.

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.

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.

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.

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.