How do we ensure disability, ADHD and neurodivergence inclusion at work (and personal life). That's the topic of this week's podcast episode.

"Life sometimes is difficult and we are thrown lots of different hands. It's about getting back to self-acceptance. Put your own oxygen mask on first. It's not selfish, it's necessary."

Hannah Gibson, founder of a disability inclusion consultancy and registered blind advocate, shares her personal journey of unmasking and self-acceptance.

She opens up about living with retinitis pigmentosa, her experiences masking in corporate leadership roles, and the transformative moment when she chose vulnerability over hiding. She discusses how she now empowers organisations and individuals through ADHD coaching, Reiki practice, and colour therapy, whilst exploring the often-overlooked connection between burnout and neurodivergence.

Key takeaways:

• Building a small, trusted circle is essential when beginning to unmask. Who can support and empower you?

• Articulating your needs without overwhelming emotion takes time and practice - be patient with yourself as you develop confidence in self-advocacy.

• Neurodivergent burnout often shows warning signs. Watch for increased anxiety over minor details, feelings of upset before work, and a persistent sense of heaviness or "ice in your chest."

• Self-acceptance is not a destination but an ongoing journey that requires active work, vulnerability, and kindness.

• Meditation, yoga, Reiki, and similar practices can help neurodivergent individuals move out of chaotic thinking minds and into the body.

"When I enabled myself to be vulnerable with this really small group of people, they were able to empower me and in return I'm able to support them with things they need help with. It is a two-way collaboration."

About Hannah:

With 20+ years in corporate leadership, Hannah combines lived experience, business acumen, and accessibility expertise to deliver transformational projects that balance business priorities with inclusive design across organisations. On an individual basis, Hannah supports and empowers people with disabilities through varied therapies and ADHD coaching. Her ambition is to create a world where everyone belongs and help the disabled community on the journey to self-acceptance in order to thrive.

Where to find Hannah:

Diverse Integration on TikTok

Diverse Integration on Instagram

Diverse Integration Website

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Why is people pleasing so common in the neurodivergent community? We discuss that very topic on this week's episode of the podcast.

"It is what it is. If people don't wanna be friends with me, it is what it is. Every day should be a learning day. Every day should be a day to work on yourself and your confidence."

Asma welcomes back autism advocate Carly Considine to explore the often overlooked topic of people-pleasing within the neurodivergent community.

Carly shares her personal journey with people-pleasing, anxious attachment, and rejection sensitivity dysphoria. She offers practical insights into recognising these patterns and setting healthy boundaries.

This conversation is a good reminder that understanding our values and prioritising self-care isn't selfish. It's essential for wellbeing.

Key takeaways:

• People-pleasing is common in neurodivergent individuals and often stems from a fear of rejection, anxious attachment, and difficulty understanding social expectations.

• Many neurodivergent people use masking techniques and say "yes" automatically to maintain friendships and avoid hurting others. Even at the cost of their own wellbeing and energy.

• Learning to differentiate between surface-level friendships and genuine connections helps you decide where to invest your time and energy.

• The Spoon Theory framework helps you to recognise when you're overcommitting and pushing beyond your limits.

• Setting boundaries is a journey, not a destination. If you're still learning to say no, that's okay. Progress comes from daily reflection and self-compassion.

"People don't want you to be a yes person. They want you to have your own opinions, they want you to have your own choices."

About Carly:

Carly Considine is an autistic adult from England diagnosed in 2015. She has two autistic daughters diagnosed in 2019. Carly for several years volunteered for National Autistic Society co-running the South Wiltshire Branch. Carly now is an online advocate and shares her experiences as not only an autistic adult but a parent of autistic children. Carly has a keen interest in female autism and how the traits can differ, she also has a passion to highlight the comorbidities that can come with Autism such as ADHD. Carly is currently working on qualifications to support her presence in the community.

Where to find Carly:

Facebook

Instagram

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Share this episode with someone who could benefit from hearing the voice of the SEND and neurodivergent community.

How do we amplify student voices when it comes to SEND education? Neurodiversity and inclusion specialist, Alex Silk, comes on the podcast to discuss.

"We need to be asking how they feel about their school experience. Do they feel a part of that whole school dynamic? Do they belong?"

In this episode of Your Voice Matters, Asma Jacob welcomes Alex Silk, with 12 years of expertise in special educational needs. Alex shares her journey from a well-paid corporate career to working as a teaching assistant in a special needs school, where she discovered her true calling.

Alex discusses the vital importance of listening to young people's voices in educational decisions, the realities of different school provisions, and practical strategies for supporting neurodivergent students. Whether you're a parent navigating educational choices or someone interested in inclusive education, this episode offers valuable insights into creating meaningful support systems that truly meet the needs of every young person.

Key takeaways:

• Career fulfillment comes from making a genuine difference, not just earning money. Find your true purpose.

• Learning communication goes both ways: observing and adapting to how young people communicate is more effective than expecting them to adapt to us.

• Most children with additional needs thrive in mainstream schools with appropriate support, and families should explore all options, including resource provisions within mainstream settings.

• Educational decisions should prioritise the young person's voice and experience.

• Research and school visits are essential, but the most important factor is listening to what feels right for your child and respecting their preferences.

"I learned so much about communication from these young people in that so many of them didn't have a voice at all. They used signing, gesture, eye gaze, or various different communication styles that I had no idea even existed."

About Alex

Alex Silk is a passionate Neurodiversity and Inclusion Specialist with over 12 years of experience teaching young people with SEND thrive across mainstream, resourced, and specialist settings.

She works at the intersection of education, research, and real-world impact — leading inclusive curriculum design, empowering families and professionals through training, and shaping meaningful change in schools.

Where to find Alex

LinkedIn

SENsational Tutors

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Learn more about Achievable Journey.

Follow Your Voice Matters and connect with Asma on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and X.

Remember to subscribe to Your Voice Matters wherever you listen to podcasts!

Share this episode with someone who could benefit from hearing the voice of the SEND and neurodivergent community.