Episode #47 Curiosity Over Assumptions Conversations on Black Neurodivergent Experiences with Sheldon Gay

In this episode, we’re joined by Sheldon Gay for a thoughtful conversation about Black neurodivergent experiences, giftedness, identity, and intersectionality.

Together, we explore how systems like education and mental health can misunderstand or overlook neurodivergent people, particularly when race and culture intersect with neurodivergence. Sheldon shares reflections from his own journey as a late-identified gifted Black man, including how bias, assumptions, and systemic barriers can shape who gets recognised, supported, or misunderstood.

We also talk about:

• The impact of being misread in school and mental health systems

• Masking, code-switching, and navigating safety

• Why curiosity and genuine listening matter

• The importance of understanding intersectional lived experiences

• Setting boundaries in spaces not designed for your identity or neurotype

This conversation invites us to slow down, stay curious, and reflect on how we can create spaces where all neurodivergent people are truly seen in their full humanity.

Sheldon Gay is an entrepreneur, speaker and host of the “I Must Be BUG’N” podcast. Sheldon is a leading advocate for gifted and neurodivergent people, especially those from melanated and marginalized communities. His lived-experience empowers him to help people become curious about their minds, foster community as well as experience peace and joy through authenticity.

Find out more about Sheldon here:

• sheldongayisbugn.com

Books & Resources Mentioned

• Me and White Supremacy: How to Recognise Your Privilege, Combat Racism and Change the World by Layla F. Saad
• We Are Displaced: My Journey and Stories from Refugee Girls Around the World by Malala Yousafzai
• Black Disability Politics by Samantha Dawn Schalk
• Shoshin: Beginner's Mind - The Zen Approach To Grow Faster: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Nl2_NCY5aik
• “Love Me In A Gay Way”: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HCjeYR7NAJ4

For more information about our podcast hosts check out the links below:

Caitlin Hughes

• ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Cathartic Collaborations⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠
• ⁠⁠⁠The Ripple Framework of Neurodivergent Flourishing: Supervision Program ⁠⁠⁠
• Social media: @cathartic.collaborations

Teena Mogler

• ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Balance Centre for Mental Health⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠
• ⁠⁠⁠Livian Consulting⁠⁠⁠
• Social media: @balancecentreformentalhealth