Things I’ve Learned as a Neurodivergent Founder (and Why I Started Kaboose)
When you’re a neurodivergent founder, you don’t just build a product. You also carry the weight of constant comparison, rejection, and feedback loops. Some are helpful, but many are hard to digest. You pitch alongside neurotypical-led startups that are often more performance-oriented, confident, better funded, and maybe less impacted by things like Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria (RSD). […]
The Unique Experiences of Neurodivergent Women: Beyond the Stereotypes
When we talk about neurodiversity, discussions often lean towards a gender-neutral perspective. However, the experiences of neurodivergent women can be vastly different from those of their male counterparts. These differences are deeply influenced by societal expectations, which often push women to mask or camouflage their true selves to fit in. This blog explores these unique […]
Why would I employ autistic people?
This week someone asked me, “but, why would I employ autistic or neurodivergent people?” This is not an uncommon question! On this occasion, it came from a seasoned business owner. I had to smile as he has undoubtedly already employed autistic people! It’s hard not to, given that 15-20% of the population are neurodiverse (an […]
The Hidden Struggle of Masking: Insights for Late-Diagnosed Women
Understanding Masking Many late-diagnosed autistic women grow up feeling different yet manage to follow social patterns, often masking their true selves. Harriet from Geek Girl eloquently describes this experience: she constantly feels out of place, like a polar bear searching for others of her kind, which is both exhausting and scary. This sense of isolation […]
Embracing Radical Acceptance: Challenging Negative Thoughts in Girls with Rejection Sensitivity
Rejection sensitivity, the intense fear of rejection, is a significant emotional challenge for many girls, particularly those who are neurodivergent. This heightened sensitivity can lead to overwhelming negative thoughts and impact their self-esteem and relationships. Radical acceptance, a concept from Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), offers a powerful approach to managing these thoughts and emotions. In […]
The Magic and Challenges of Neurodivergent Friendships
Friendships are a crucial part of our lives, they help us feel connected and provide us with support, joy, and a sense of belonging. However, for neurodivergent individuals, forming and maintaining friendships can come with unique challenges as well as magical moments that differ from neurotypical experiences. The Magic of Neurodivergent Friendships Neurodivergent friendships often […]
Rejection Sensitivity – Managing Disappointment
Today we’re managing the disappointment of a friendship breakdown in our household. Supporting someone who is upset and has rejection sensitivity can be extremely challenging, but it’s essential to approach the situation with care and empathy. Here are a few tips: 👂 Listen with Empathy: Actively listen without judgment. Let them express their feelings and […]
The magic of special interests
Meet Nick & Toby – both are autistic. Both have felt socially isolated and previously unable to attend school due to anxiety and bullying. 🚘 This past weekend they spent two days stripping down a motor. Neither of them have any formal training. So how did they do this? Because they have a deep interest, […]
Supporting neurodivergent family members to manage their time
As a parent of two children with Autism & ADHD, I often see both my children struggle with time management in different ways. Firstly, if there is a co-occurring condition like ADHD with Autism, you will often see a number of different presentations. Specifically, neurodivergent people often have difficulties with executive functioning, which describes the […]
Rejection Sensitivity – the very REAL impacts
So what is RSD? Rejection Sensitivity is actually an old concept that has been associated with ADHD but is getting a lot more publicity of late! According to Additude Magazine, “RSD Rejection sensitive dysphoria is one manifestation of emotional dysregulation, a common but misunderstood and under-researched symptom of ADHD in adults. Individuals with RSD feel […]
