Navigating Neurodiversity: A Conversation with Dr. Alondra Rogers| Authentic On Air S2:E7
Channel: Impulsive
Date: 2024-03-27

**Episode Description:**
In this enlightening episode of Authentic On Air, host Bruce Alexander welcomes Dr. Alondra Rogers, a dedicated social worker, autism consultant, author, and mother, for a profound conversation on neurodiversity, late diagnosis, and the journey of living and parenting within the autistic and ADHD spectrum. Dr. Rogers shares her personal and professional insights into the challenges and beauties of neurodivergence, highlighting the significance of self-awareness, acceptance, and the pursuit of authentic identity in a world that often misunderstands neurodiverse individuals.

**Key Takeaways:**
1. The Importance of Self-Identification: Dr. Rogers' story emphasizes the transformative power of understanding one's neurodivergence and advocating for oneself and one's family.
2. The Role of Professional Support: The discussion underscores the necessity of finding empathetic and knowledgeable support for navigating life as a neurodivergent individual or parent.
3. The Power of Community: Both guests advocate for the value of connecting with others who share similar experiences, reinforcing the importance of community in the journey toward self-acceptance.

**Resources:**
- Dr. Alondra Rogers' Books: "Thriving Together" and "Meeting Myself in the Dark"
- Autistic Self Advocacy Network (ASAN)
- Neuroclastic
- Embrace Autism

**Learn More About Coach Bruce:**
Coach Bruce Alexander specializes in helping individuals, especially parents, embrace their authentic selves and manage the complexities of ADHD and autism in their families. With a focus on personal growth and community support, Bruce offers guidance and resources for navigating neurodiversity with grace and confidence.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background
01:37 Late Diagnosis and Personal Experiences
06:53 Comparative Diagnosis and Self-Realization
09:18 Challenges in Getting a Diagnosis
13:34 The Complexity of Eye Contact and Masking
22:13 The Importance of Sharing Personal Experiences
26:07 Choosing a Career Path and Authenticity
29:01 The Challenge of Showing Up as Yourself
32:12 The Boundaries and Education of Therapy
37:09 Life Coaching and Holding Space
38:28 The Transformative Power of Therapy
39:28 Managing Emotional Investment in Therapy
42:14 Living a Neurodivergent Lifestyle
45:59 Trusting Your Inner Voice
46:24 The Reversion of Skills in Autism
50:17 Orienting to a New Reality
54:26 Empowerment through Training and ADHD
56:56 Understanding Autism Speaks
59:36 Finding Resources for ADHD and Autism
01:03:05 Curating Social Media Accounts
01:08:25 Respecting Children's Privacy on Social Media
01:10:15 Dr. Alondra Rogers' Work and Consultancy