The AuDHD Boss: Neurodiversity at Work with Brett Whitmarsh

I’m an autistic leader with ADHD, and I’ve spent over a decade working in a leadership position in corporate workplace. And for most of that time, I’ve masked—hard.What does masking at work actually look like for an autistic manager with ADHD? And what does it cost us to stay “professional” every day?In this episode, I’m reflecting on masking in the corporate workplace—from learning to read the room to choosing when to speak, how to show up, and how to recover when masking becomes too much.As a leader with autism and ADHD, I talk why I still mad in the workplace, the toll masking takes on my identity and energy, and how I’m learning to unmask in a way that protects both my mental health and my leadership effectiveness. Whether you’re neurodivergent yourself or managing someone who is, this episode is for anyone who wants to better understand what masking is—and how to make room for authenticity in professional spaces.

n this episode, I explore the meaning of neuroqueering through my own lived experience as a queer, autistic, ADHD adult. Joined by Dr. Megan Anna Neff (Neurodivergent Insights), we dive into:The definition and origins of the term "neuroqueer"How masking and identity suppression lead to burnoutThe grief of coming out and discovering you're neurodivergent later in lifeWhat it means to heal your inner childWhy unmasking is a slow, emotional, and communal journeyWe also discuss how safety, community, and self-permission are key to stepping into your authentic identity—and how queer and neurodivergent joy often go hand-in-hand.🎧 Tune in to hear how unmasking shaped my path, why I believe identity work must happen in community, and what neuroqueering means to me today.🔗 Related Links:Full interview with Dr. Megan Anna Neff: https://youtu.be/Df4V9-vvinoMy Substack & Office Hours: https://brettwhitmarsh.substack.comNick Walker's original neuroqueer writing: https://neuroqueer.com/neuroqueer-an-introduction/**📚 Links Mentioned:** - Order Dr. Neff's **Autistic Burnout Workbook**: https://bookshop.org/a/108800/9781507223062- Dr. Neff's Website: https://neurodivergentinsights.com-Order Dr. Neff's Self Care for Autistic People: https://bookshop.org/a/108800/9781507221938📖 Learn more about Dr. Neff:https://www.neurodivergentinsights.com/Substack: https://substack.com/@neurodivergentinsights https://neurodivergentinsights.substack.com

Why do so many of us feel like we’re always performing — even in our safest spaces?In this powerful and deeply resonant episode, Brett (The AudHD Boss) is joined once again by Dr. Megan Anna Neff, psychologist and founder of Neurodivergent Insights, to explore the complex emotional and psychological experience of autistic masking.Together, they discuss:How masking starts in childhood as a trauma and survival responseThe privilege, protection, and cost of masking — especially for BIPOC neurodivergent individualsThe intersection of masking with OCD, burnout, queerness, and late diagnosisWhy unmasking is not just a process — but a layered, relational, and identity-shaping journeyHow to hold nuance in the unmasking conversation, including when masking is protective or strategicThe need for self-permission, community, and compassion as we learn how to be our fullest selvesThis is one of the most honest, layered, and liberating conversations we’ve had — full of real stories, research, and reflections. Whether you’re navigating your own unmasking process or supporting someone who is, you’ll walk away with validation, insight, and the reminder that this work is not meant to be done alone.🔗 Learn more about Dr. Neff at neurodivergentinsights.com💻 Coaching and resources: audhdboss.com📺 Watch the full video on YouTube: @AudioBoss🎧 Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts#Autism #Unmasking #Neurodivergent #Masking #MentalHealth #LateDiagnosis #AutismInAdults #DrMeganAnnaNeff #QueerAndNeurodivergent #NeurodivergentIdentity #ADHD #AutisticBurnout

How do you turn burnout into business success as a neurodivergent entrepreneur? In this compelling episode, Brett, the AuDHD Boss, sits down with Patrick Casale – therapist, private practice coach, and host of the All Things Private Practice podcast and Divergent Conversations with Dr. Megan Anna Neff– to share his journey from high-stress work environments to thriving as a self-employed ADHD and autistic business owner.In This Episode:Patrick’s path from workplace burnout to building a private practiceManaging imposter syndrome and self-doubt as a neurodivergent leaderPractical strategies for self-accommodations and executive functionCreating affirming workplaces for ADHD and autistic staffUsing fear as a gas pedal instead of a brake in businessListen now to learn how Patrick Casale transformed burnout into a thriving business while navigating the unique challenges of ADHD and autism.

Traveling for work can be a sensory challenge for autistic and ADHD professionals. Discover practical strategies to manage stress, from packing travel-friendly stims to scheduling essential downtime. Learn how adjusting your masking plan can ease social interactions. Hear insights on creating a recovery routine that fits your needs while on the road. Plus, tips on maintaining vital life habits and identifying quiet spaces to recharge at events! Tune in for essential advice to make work travel smoother.

What happens when both you and your boss have ADHD? In this episode, I'm joined by my longtime friend and former colleague, Sherry, for a deep dive into the challenges and strategies of managing up with a neurodivergent manager.We share real-world stories about navigating chaotic energy, building strengths-based teams, structuring weekly check-ins, and using "reverse accommodations" to create a more successful and supportive workplace.Whether you're neurodivergent yourself or simply want better communication with your leadership, this conversation is packed with insights you can apply today.Topics we cover:Managing priorities when your boss has ADHDBuilding trust through confident vulnerabilitySupporting overwhelmed managers without doing their job for themCommunication tips for remote neurodivergent teams🎧 Subscribe for more conversations about ADHD, autism, and thriving in the workplace.Managing Up with ADHDADHD in the WorkplaceNeurodivergent Manager SupportADHD Boss Employee TipsCorporate Workplace ADHD StrategiesManaging Neurodivergent TeamsStrength-Based Leadership ADHDHow to Manage Up with ADHDADHD Communication TipsThriving with ADHD at Work

What if a conversation between a neurodivergent and neurotypical person didn’t have to end in confusion?In this episode, I talk with Michael Daniel, the creator of the NeuroTranslator app— an AI-powered tool designed to decode and bridge communication between autistic, ADHD, dyslexic, and neurotypical minds.We explore:Michael’s late-diagnosis journey with autism and ADHDHow unmasking affected his marriage and workplace experienceWhat led him to build a communication translator for neurodivergent brainsThe impact of rejection sensitivity, burnout, and PDA in real lifeHow this AI tool is already changing relationships, workplaces, and livesWhether you're an autistic or ADHD professional, a curious manager, or someone looking to improve communication in your relationships, this episode is full of insights, compassion, and hope.📲 Download the app: https://www.neurotranslator.ai 📚 Mentioned books: Divergent Mind: https://bookshop.org/a/108800/9780062876805 📚Unmasking Autism by Devon Price : https://bookshop.org/a/108800/9780593235232📚 Unmasking for Life: https://bookshop.org/a/108800/9780593735756📱 Follow Michael on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mickydaniel?_t=ZP-8vbF10HlKEJ&_r=1 Listen to more AuDHD Boss Podcast episodes: https://brettwhitmarsh.com/audhdboss-podcast/Watch the full conversation on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W_6jstQ4qa0

What happens when you realize, years into adulthood, that you’ve been living with undiagnosed ADHD and autism? For many of us, the answer is grief.In this episode, I open up about the complex emotional journey that followed my late diagnosis—how I processed lost time, forgave myself for what I didn’t know, and began building a new future with the tools I now have.Whether you're newly diagnosed, self-diagnosed, or still figuring it out, this episode is here to remind you: you're not broken—you just needed a different way in.We’ll talk about:Why grief is a normal part of late diagnosisProcessing missed opportunities with compassionTools that helped me find clarity and calmHow I’m learning to unmask, self-advocate, and move forward✨ You’re not alone. Let’s walk through this together.🔗 More from Brett, The AuDHD Boss:🎥 YouTube: youtube.com/@audhdboss🌐 Website: audhdboss.com📸 Instagram & TikTok: @audhdboss🎧 Subscribe on your favorite podcast app for more real-talk on thriving as a neurodivergent professional.

What's the point of seeking an autism or ADHD diagnosis as an adult? I was recently asked why I would see out a diagnosis as an adult. The question being, wouldn't you have figure out coping skills by now? The questions has some ableist wrapped up in it. The short answer is, so I can get my needs met. This episode explores the impact of understanding your neurodivergence later in life, from gaining self-awareness to navigating workplace challenges. We address concerns about 'taking resources,' the benefits of self-diagnosis vs. formal diagnosis, and how a late diagnosis can feel like finally getting your life's 'owner's manual.' If you're questioning whether to pursue a diagnosis or seeking to understand late-diagnosed autism and ADHD, this episode offers valuable insights and relatable experiences. For more information or more episodes or to subscribe to my YouTube channel visit: audhdboss.com

This episode of the AudHD Boss podcast explores autistic masking and its significant impact on autistic burnout. Host Brett, who has ADHD and autism and is a corporate leader, shares personal experiences and draws on expertise from Dr. Megan Anna Neff, author of "The Autistic Burnout Workbook".Key topics covered include:Defining Autistic Masking: An explanation of what autistic masking is, including the conscious and unconscious suppression of autistic traits, mannerisms, and behaviors. Brett, referencing Dr Neff's book, discusses how masking often begins as a protective mechanism and shares his own experiences with "studying to be human" and mimicking others.The Link Between Masking and Burnout: How masking leads to a buildup of stress and exhaustion, ultimately contributing to autistic burnout. The episode explores how suppressing one's true self and needs takes a significant toll.Unmasking and Finding Your True Self: Brett discusses the journey of unmasking, drawing on author Dr. Gibson's concept (from Adult Children of Emotionally Immature Parents) of the "true self" versus the "role self". He shares his personal experience with coming out later in life as a catalyst for unmasking. The episode also covers practical techniques from The Autistic Burnout Workbook for unmasking and self-discovery, including developing interoceptive awareness and identifying sources of joy.Navigating Masking in Everyday Life: Practical advice for managing masking in various situations, including the importance of having a plan for when masking is necessary.This episode provides valuable insights for autistic individuals, those with ADHD, and anyone interested in understanding neurodiversity and the challenges of masking.📘Dr. Neff's "Autistic Burnout Workbook": https://bookshop.org/a/108800/9781507223062🔗Neurodivergent Insights (Dr. Neff's website): https://neurodivergentinsights.com👉🏼Discount code for Dr. Neff's digital tools: AUDHDBOSS 🎥My interview with Dr. Neff: https://youtu.be/DO-vcVOUFDg