How to Be Awesome at Your Job

1087: How Neurodivergent Professionals Thrive at Work with Shea Belsky

18 snips
Aug 25, 2025
Shea Belsky, an autistic self-advocate and Tech Lead II at HubSpot, shares his insights on thriving in the workplace as a neurodivergent professional. He discusses the unique strengths and challenges faced by autistic individuals and the significance of fostering psychological safety. Shea emphasizes the importance of accommodations and open dialogues about neurodiversity. Listeners learn practical strategies, from creating user manuals to embracing special interests as superpowers, to create an inclusive and supportive work environment.
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ANECDOTE

Positioning To Reduce Overload

  • Shea described concerts and crowded spaces where every nearby conversation feels directed at him.
  • He manages by positioning himself (e.g., against a wall) to reduce sensory input.
INSIGHT

Special Interests Become Valuable Expertise

  • Special interests let neurodivergent people become deep subject experts who add unique value.
  • Teams benefit when they match those interests to work where deep focus helps.
ADVICE

Use A 'Working With Me' One-Pager

  • Create a concise 'working with me' one-pager to explain your preferences and accommodations.
  • Share it with teammates to unlock productivity and reduce misunderstandings.
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