Episode 7 - Dopamine & The Neurodivergent Brain: Why Motivation Isn’t What You Think

Hiring Fairly: Rethinking Interviews, Adjustments & Inclusive Recruitment

Send us Fan Mail [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2600527/fan_mail/new] What does inclusive hiring actually look like in practice? In this episode, Steph and Claire unpack the barriers hidden inside modern recruitment, from exclusionary job ads and rushed interviews to the lack of meaningful adjustments for disabled and neurodivergent candidates. Grounded in UK guidance from ACAS and GOV.UK, they explore why traditional hiring processes often measure confidence over competence, and what employers can do differently to create fairer opportunities for everyone. They discuss Disability Confident schemes, reasonable adjustments, alternative interview formats, and why inclusion isn’t about “special treatment”, it’s about removing barriers. Whether you’re hiring staff, applying for jobs, or simply curious about how recruitment could be more accessible, this conversation challenges the idea that current systems are truly fair. Because talent isn’t the problem—access is

Episode 9 - Body Doubling: Work Together, Even When Alone

Send us Fan Mail [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2600527/fan_mail/new] Ever struggle to stay focused or get things done on your own? In this episode, we dive into body doubling—the simple but powerful practice of working alongside someone else (even virtually!) to boost productivity and focus. This isn’t just talk—we’ll body double together during the episode, so grab your favourite music, set up your workspace, and let’s tackle tasks side by side. Discover how pairing up can make challenging work feel easier, more fun, and way less lonely.

Episode 8 - Burnout: When the Brain Moves from Thriving to Surviving

Send us Fan Mail [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2600527/fan_mail/new]  Burnout is more than exhaustion — it’s a neurological and psychological response to chronic stress that reshapes how we think, feel, and work.  In this episode of The Brain at Work, Claire and Steph unpack the science behind burnout, exploring how stress impacts the brain, why motivation disappears, and how workplace systems often fuel cognitive overload.  They examine the different ways burnout presents in neurotypical and neurodivergent employees, including the hidden toll of masking, executive dysfunction, and emotional exhaustion. With real-world workplace examples and practical recovery strategies for both individuals and organisations, this episode offers a powerful look at how sustainable work design can help people move from surviving back to thriving.

Episode 7 - Dopamine & The Neurodivergent Brain: Why Motivation Isn’t What You Think

Send us Fan Mail [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2600527/fan_mail/new] Ever feel like you want to start something but just… can’t? In this episode of SEND It – Brains at Work, Steph and Claire unpack one of the most misunderstood drivers of motivation: dopamine. Far from being just the “feel-good” chemical, dopamine is what helps us start tasks, stay focused, and follow through — and for neurodivergent brains, it doesn’t always work in predictable ways. We explore how dopamine impacts ADHD, autism, and dyslexia, why some tasks feel impossible while others spark hours of hyperfocus, and what’s really going on when motivation disappears. Drawing on research and real workplace examples, we reframe common struggles like procrastination, task paralysis, and burnout. Most importantly, we share practical, evidence-informed strategies to help you work with your brain — from dopamine stacking and micro-tasking to designing environments that actually support focus and energy. If you’ve ever thought, “I know it’s important… so why can’t I start?” — this episode is for you.

Episode 6 - Behind the Mask: Uncovering Hidden Effort at Work

Send us Fan Mail [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2600527/fan_mail/new]  This episode explores what masking really means in the workplace—how individuals consciously or unconsciously hide aspects of themselves to fit in, meet expectations, or avoid judgment. It breaks down the different ways people mask, from suppressing emotions to mimicking communication styles, and highlights the toll this can take on wellbeing and performance. The episode also offers practical insights for employers and colleagues on how to create safer, more inclusive environments where people feel comfortable being authentic, reducing the need for masking and helping everyone thrive.