The Neurodiverse Lens: A CDL Podcast

Episode 3: Advocating Together

Episode 3: Advocating Together Monday, March 23 | Hosts: Jordan + Carolyn What advocacy looks like when it’s relational and collaborative, Advocating with, not for, neurodivergent individuals, & Everyday examples

The Neurodiverse Lens: Symposium Series | Episode 2: Learning Together

Episode 2: Learning TogetherMonday, March 9 | Hosts: Jordan + OliviaThe brilliance of neurodivergent learning styles: creativity, hyperfocus, problem‑solving, Barriers created by “good student” stereotypes & Simple, friendly explanations of UDL in action

The Neurodiverse Lens: Symposium Series | Episode 1: Understanding Together

Episode 1: Understanding Together Monday, March 2 | Hosts: Jordan + CarolynPersonal stories about evolving understandings of neurodiversity, Gentle examples of common misunderstandings

Episode 11: The Hidden Toll of Masking

The Hidden Toll of Masking | The Neurodiverse Lens Podcast (Episode 11) Masking is often seen as a survival skill for neurodiverse individuals — but the emotional and mental toll can be heavy. In this episode, Carolyn and Jordan unpack what masking really is, why it starts so young, and how it impacts identity, relationships, and the ability to feel safe as your authentic self. Whether you’re neurodiverse or an ally, this conversation highlights why understanding masking is key to reducing burnout and building environments where people truly belong. Sponsored by Artemis Assessment & Treatment CentreFeaturing Fidgety Squirrel, their ADHD-friendly children’s mascot! 👇 Chapters 00:00 – Welcome & episode intro 00:28 – What is masking? 05:59 – Gendered masking & social expectations 09:05 – The hidden weight of “not fitting in” 16:26 – Burnout, shame & mental health impacts 22:00 – How allies can create safe spaces 26:30 – Building a world where masking isn’t required 29:07 – Final reflections & learn more at diverselearners.ca 🔔 New episodes every two weeks — subscribe to join the conversation. Learn more about the Centre for Diverse Learners: diverselearners.ca #NeurodiverseLens #Masking #Neurodiversity #Autism #ADHD #MentalHealth #Unmasking #InclusiveCommunities #CentreForDiverseLearners

The Neurodiverse Lens: Every Brain is Beautiful with Sarah Furlong

In this episode, we chat with author and creative director Sarah Furlong, whose children’s book Every Brain is Beautiful introduces neurodiversity to young readers in a way that celebrates differences and fosters empathy. We explore early education, representation in storytelling, and how families and educators can start meaningful conversations about neurodiversity. 00:00 — Welcome to The Neurodiverse Lens 00:30 — Meet Sarah Furlong: author, parent, and creative director 01:15 — The story behind Every Brain is Beautiful 02:50 — Why it’s important to introduce neurodiversity early 04:00 — Using animals and soft colours to ensure inclusion 05:30 — Feedback from parents and educators 06:00 — Expanding the Every Brain series: ADHD, Autism, Dyslexia & more 07:00 — Sarah’s new book Mission Pancake and its fun approach to ADHD 08:00 — Introducing StoryA: personalized storytelling through the mail 09:30 — How personalized letters encourage kids to read 10:40 — Empowering kids through accurate labels and diagnosis 12:00 — Teaching self-advocacy at home and in classrooms 13:00 — How teachers and parents can use these books to start conversations 14:30 — Building inclusive environments through early understanding 15:30 — What’s next for Sarah: expanding Every Brain and launching StoryA 16:00 — The power of inclusive storytelling in shaping communities 18:00 — Where to find Sarah’s books and StoryA 19:40 — Closing thoughts and CDL resources ⏱️ Timestamps