WHY AM I STRUGGLING AT WORK? | The Hidden Reason Nobody Talks About with Jodie Steele

If you regularly come home from work completely wiped out or spend the weekend worrying about a meeting on Monday, you are not alone, lots of neurodiverse people feel that way. Today, sit down with Jodie Steele, the founder of NeuroTalks, to discuss why that happens and what you, your employers and others can do to solve this issue. We cover why it isn’t usually the person who is struggling that needs fixing, burnout, masking, and psychological safety. As well as how a lack of clear communication leaves neurodivergent people feeling anxious and second guessing themselves. Jodie explains why how supportive managers can help people do well in the workplace by making often small, inexpensive changes – changes that benefit everyone. EPISODE REVEALS Workplace issues often stem from a lack of shared understanding, rather than bad intent. Managers may have had little training in neurodiversity, and employees may not know how to communicate their needs effectively. Clear communication eases anxiety e.g. explaining the purpose of a meeting gives people less room to worry about what might go wrong. Many neurodiverse people don´t disclose a disability or ask for adjustments. Often, they do not feel psychologically safe doing so. Small changes, often low cost, make a huge difference e.g. quiet spaces, regular breaks, flexibility around cameras in meetings and better communication. A company that supports neurodivergent employees automatically creates a workplace that is more supportive for everyone, improving productivity in the process. BEST MOMENTS "Some of the most intelligent people in the world have neurodivergence …There's a lot of superpowers that can be harnessed. So, I help create and guide employers to create high-performance work environments that don't burn staff out." "When you improve the weakest part of the system, you improve the overall system." "We are not talking about organisations spending a lot of money." EPISODE RESOURCES www.linkedin.com/in/jodie-steele/ www.neurotalks.co.uk www.alchemysoulstravel.com www.instagram.com/alchemy_souls_travel/ Free resources for managers and HR: https://neurotalks.co.uk/workbooks-resources/ Previous Jodie Steele episode - https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/from-breakdown-to-breakthrough-overcoming-adhd-burnout/id1810681675?i=1000737332519 RESOURCES Famisafe Parental control App Link: https://wondersharesoftware.pxf.io/ParentingAUDHD What to Do When Your Child Shuts Down: Real-World Parenting Strategies for Neurodivergent Kids Who Shut Down, Refuse School, or Just Stop communicating with you: https://amzn.eu/d/0fBIfbhR CLIFF´S SERVICES Are you struggling with anxiety and want support from someone who has been there and come out the other side? - Message Cliff here and take advantage of his founding members offer: https://m.me/cliff.kilmister CONTACT ME Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cliff_kilmister08 X (Twitter): https://x.com/KilmisterCliff https://www.facebook.com/cliff.kilmister X - @KilmisterCliff https://www.youtube.com/@ParentingAutismandADHD HOST BIO Cliff Kilmister is a dedicated parent, advocate, and cat whisperer with firsthand experience raising a child with autism, ADHD, and Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD). Having navigated the challenges of school refusal, meltdowns, and sensory sensitivities, Cliff brings an empathetic, real-world perspective to the podcast. When he's not helping his child thrive, he’s dodging the evil stares of his three cats, who are plotting to take over the world (fortunately, they still haven’t figured out how to use the tin opener). Cliff offers practical advice, expert insights, and personal stories to help families facing similar struggles. Cliff is focused on connecting with professionals and networks to raise awareness about the growing need for the education system to adapt to the increasing neurodiverse population. Join the community on Patreon to share experiences, access exclusive content, and work together for change! This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/