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Episode 2

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Published on:

1st Sep 2024

Finding Success on the Spectrum: An Interview with Jason Bean

Jason Bean shares his experiences growing up with autism and the challenges he faced in school and the workplace. He discusses the lack of support and understanding from teachers and employers, as well as the discrimination he encountered. Jason emphasizes the importance of self-advocacy and understanding one's own challenges in order to effectively communicate and request accommodations. He also highlights the need for employers to educate themselves about neurodiversity and create inclusive environments. Jason has written a book, 'Unbound Minds: A Neurodivergent Journey of Self-Discovery and Empowerment,' to share his experiences and provide guidance for others.

Takeaways

  • Self-advocacy is crucial for individuals with neurodiverse conditions to communicate their needs and request accommodations.
  • Employers need to educate themselves about neurodiversity and create inclusive environments that support individuals with neurodiverse conditions.
  • Understanding one's own challenges and strengths is essential for determining the accommodations needed in the workplace.
  • Trade shows and events should consider providing sensory rooms or quiet spaces for individuals with neurodiverse conditions to decompress and regroup.
  • Education and awareness about neurodiversity are key to breaking down stereotypes and creating a more inclusive society.
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About the Podcast

Diversity Matters
The show where every voice is welcome, and every story is celebrated.
In this podcast series, Mike moves away from the traditional DE&I rhetoric, to get a better understanding of what diversity, equity and inclusion actually means for us as individuals. Are we seeing real change? Do you feel a greater sense of belonging in your workplace and community? Each week Mike and his guest open an honest dialogue on a specific DE&I topic, some discussions will be inspirational, others might be a little uncomfortable but hopefully all will be interesting and thought provoking.

About your host

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Mike Sealy

Mike is currently the Vice President of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Director with a world leading exhibition and event organiser, he leads, coordinates, and champions the Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging efforts across the business to ensure the long-term sustainability of the D&I strategy in relation to the company’s colleagues, customers, content and communities.
Through his own lived experiences, he is deeply passionate about fairness, equity, and inclusion for all. He is a dedicated coach, mentor, motivator, and podcaster who regularly speaks at events and on discussion panels both to corporate colleagues and students in education. He speaks candidly on his work and social experiences to create awareness of the issues and opportunities within diversity and inclusion as well as to help build confidence, freedom, and motivation in others.
Mike is British with Afro-Caribbean heritage. He is thought leader with a strong client centric and customer experience mindset and has demonstrable experience of leading teams across complex international matrixed organizations possessing a strong track record of delivering results. He has held senior leadership positions at Hewlett Packard, Microsoft and the BBC, leading and setting up businesses and organizations and has won awards for management and execution excellence in the process.