TELOS: A Neurodiversity Conversation

In this episode, Dr. Randolph B. Schiffer delves into the transformative power of storytelling as a crucial tool for understanding and addressing fear, particularly in neurodivergent children. Through heartfelt personal anecdotes and expert insights, Dr. Schiffer emphasizes the significance of resilience, honesty, and courage in childhood development.   For more information, visit randolphbschiffe...

This episode of TELOS explores the often overlooked neurodevelopmental condition FASD, its invisibility, challenges in diagnosis, and the importance of understanding its impact on individuals and society. In this eye-opening episode, Patti Kasper reveals how FASD often goes unnoticed, misunderstood, and misdiagnosed, perpetuating stigma and leaving countless adults without support or recognition....

Most neurodivergent people have felt misunderstood by traditional therapy—until now. In this eye-opening episode of TELOS, Ed Chen reveals how Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT) transforms emotional overwhelm into practical resilience for neurodiverse minds. If you've ever struggled with intense feelings, rigid thinking, or feeling invalidated, this episode is your guide to understanding an...

Most parents feel overwhelmed trying to fix their child's behaviour without understanding what it truly communicates. Gabriele Nicolet, a parent coach and speech-language pathologist, unveils how shifting from control to connection transforms family dynamics. In this episode, you’ll discover why behaviours like meltdowns and refusals are actually signals of internal chaos and unmet needs, especial...

This episode of TELOS explores how dyslexia shapes cognitive styles, problem-solving, and leadership, challenging traditional perceptions and highlighting its potential as a gift. Guest David Murin shares personal stories, scientific insights, and practical advice for neurodiverse individuals. Whether you're seeking guidance through therapy podcasts or looking for inspiration from a personal g...

In one of the most important mental health podcast conversations we’ve had on TELOS, Aeris sits down with Vincent Hazenboom — whose journey through addiction, emotional awakening, and heart-led masculinity offers a mental health perspective into what it means to be a sensitive man in a culture that equates strength with emotional suppression. Want to be a guest on TELOS: A Neurodiversity Conversat...

In this interview, Aeris is joined by Dr. Lisa Riegel. With over 25 years of experience helping schools shift from compliance-based culture to sustainable engagement, Dr. Riegel applies practical neuroscience to real-world educational challenges — making this a must-listen mental health podcast for young adults, educators, and anyone invested in neuro-affirming learning environments. Want to be a...

In this episode of TELOS: A Neurodiversity Conversation — a mental health lived experience podcast and personal growth podcast for teens and young adults — host Aeris sits down with Gazit Chaya Nkosi, a nervous system educator, for a deep-dive disability podcast interview exploring the intersections of high sensitivity, trauma, giftedness, and masking. This therapy-informed conversation is perfect...

In this episode, host Aeris speaks with Kenneth Mims , a teacher and advocate for neurodiversity in STEM education. They discuss Kenneth’s journey from a STEM background to founding the Neurodiversity Education Research Center and Science Prep Academy, which focuses on inclusive education for neurodivergent learners. The conversation explores the importance of innovative educational models that pr...

In this episode, host Aeris speaks with Nika Brunet Milunovik , founder of Calm Nest Collective, about the importance of neurodiversity, sensory wellbeing, and creating inclusive environments, particularly in event management. Nika shares her personal experiences with ADHD and sensory overload, emphasizing the need for supportive spaces and strategies to accommodate neurodiverse individuals. Want...

In this episode, host Aeris speaks with Dr. Eugene Manley Jr. , an engineer by training and founder of the SCHEQ (STEMM & Cancer Health Equity). They delve into the intersection of neurodivergence, particularly ADHD, and various societal factors such as race and class. Want to be a guest on TELOS: A Neurodiversity Conversation? Send me a message on PodMatch, here: https://lnkd.in/gxjiKgGT neur...

In this episode, Aeris Wren speaks with Maxwell Ivey , known as the blind blogger, about the importance of accessibility in digital spaces. They discuss Maxwell’s journey into accessibility advocacy, the evolution of the internet, common missteps businesses make in designing for accessibility, and the impact of accessible content on audience growth.  Want to be a guest on TELOS: A Neurodiversity C...

In this episode of TELOS, host Aeris engages in a profound conversation with Michelle Choairy , an advocate for neurodivergent children. They explore the importance of self-advocacy, the challenges faced by complex kids, and the impact of perfectionism on their lives. Michelle shares her personal journey from Brazil to becoming an advocate. Want to be a guest on TELOS: A Neurodiversity Conversatio...

In this episode of TELOS, host Aeris Wren engages with therapist Katie K. May to explore the complexities of self-destructive behaviours in teens, particularly those who are neurodivergent. They discuss the importance of understanding these behaviours as forms of communication and survival, the role of dialectical behavioural therapy (DBT) in helping teens regulate their emotions, and the critical...

In this episode of TELOS, host Aeris and Dr. Bryan Gastelle discuss the complexities of neurodivergence, particularly focusing on ADHD, anxiety, burnout, and relationships. They explore the challenges faced by neurodivergent individuals in navigating societal expectations and provide practical strategies for self-care, grounding techniques, and improving communication in relationships. The convers...

In this episode of TELOS, host Aeris speaks with Dr. Wole Babatunde , a psychiatrist and author, about resilience, mental health, and the philosophy of 'Adapt and Advance.' The discussion delves into the importance of meaning-making in difficult situations, practical frameworks for navigating adversity, and the integration of faith and identity in personal and professional life. neurodiversity, me...

In this episode of TELOS, host Aeris and clinical psychologist Dr. Shannon Sauer-Zavala delve into the complexities of burnout, particularly among high-achieving women and neurodivergent individuals. They explore the personal journey of burnout, the inadequacy of common productivity hacks, and the psychological underpinnings of overcommitment. Dr. Sauer-Zavala shares practical strategies for setti...

In this episode of TELOS, a Neurodiversity Conversation, Cody Johnston, known as the Weird Canadian , shares his journey as a neurodivergent entrepreneur. Cody discusses how his unique perspective has shaped his approach to software development, problem-solving, and creativity. He emphasizes the importance of understanding one's own neurodivergence and offers advice for fellow neurodivergent entre...

In this episode of TELOS, host Aeris speaks with Todd Hagopian , an executive and mental health advocate, about his journey with bipolar disorder and how he transformed his experiences into a framework for success known as the HOT system. Todd shares insights on navigating the challenges of mental health in the workplace, embracing neurodiversity, and strategies to prevent burnout and stagnation....

Host Aeris engages with Shaun Anthony McMichael , an accomplished author and educator, to explore the intersection of storytelling, writing, and mentorship within the context of neurodiversity and mental health. Shaun shares his personal journey as a writer and educator, discussing how his experiences have shaped his approach to empowering young voices, particularly those from marginalized backgro...

Join Aeris for an insightful conversation with Dr. Assumpta Ekeh as we explore mental health accessibility and psychiatric care for neurodiverse children and families. In this episode, Dr. Ekeh shares her expertise on early intervention, common misconceptions about psychiatric medication, school-psychiatry collaboration, and practical strategies for breaking down barriers to care. Whether you'...

In this episode, host Aeris welcomes David McKee, founder of Another Angle Consulting, for an insightful conversation about overcoming stagnation, writer's block, and distraction in our modern world. With his work featured in Artist Weekly and LA Wire, David's approach is grounded in neuroscience and the art of living.

In this episode of TELOS, host Aeris and therapist Darren Elliott explore the often misunderstood topic of narcissism in neurodivergence. They discuss how narcissism is not just about ego but is deeply rooted in emotional immaturity, trauma, and disconnection.

This week, Aeris sits down with Shannon Michelle, whose life was forever altered by a devastating motorcycle accident that left her in a coma with a traumatic brain injury. Through this experience, Shannon discovered an extraordinary capacity for transformation and developed a profound understanding of neuroplasticity and the brain's ability to rewire itself. She has recently published her new mem...

Host Aeris sits down with Dr. Corey Jentry, survivor of the troubled-teen industry and author of "Selling Sanity: The Troubled-Teen Industry, the Insane Profits, and the Kids Who Pay the Price." Together, they pull back the curtain on a billion-dollar industry built on control, coercion, and profit—one that disproportionately targets neurodivergent and mentally ill youth under the guise...