Masking in the Workplace: The Hidden Strain of Being an Autistic Leader with ADHD
I’m an autistic leader with ADHD, and I’ve spent over a decade working in a leadership position in corporate workplace. And for most of that time, I’ve masked—hard.What does masking at work actually look like for an autistic manager with ADHD? And what does it cost us to stay “professional” every day?In this episode, I’m reflecting on masking in the corporate workplace—from learning to read the room to choosing when to speak, how to show up, and how to recover when masking becomes too much.As a leader with autism and ADHD, I talk why I still mad in the workplace, the toll masking takes on my identity and energy, and how I’m learning to unmask in a way that protects both my mental health and my leadership effectiveness. Whether you’re neurodivergent yourself or managing someone who is, this episode is for anyone who wants to better understand what masking is—and how to make room for authenticity in professional spaces.
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12:25
What Is Neuroqueer? A Personal Journey Into Identity, Masking, and Healing
n this episode, I explore the meaning of neuroqueering through my own lived experience as a queer, autistic, ADHD adult. Joined by Dr. Megan Anna Neff (Neurodivergent Insights), we dive into:The definition and origins of the term "neuroqueer"How masking and identity suppression lead to burnoutThe grief of coming out and discovering you're neurodivergent later in lifeWhat it means to heal your inner childWhy unmasking is a slow, emotional, and communal journeyWe also discuss how safety, community, and self-permission are key to stepping into your authentic identity—and how queer and neurodivergent joy often go hand-in-hand.🎧 Tune in to hear how unmasking shaped my path, why I believe identity work must happen in community, and what neuroqueering means to me today.🔗 Related Links:Full interview with Dr. Megan Anna Neff: https://youtu.be/Df4V9-vvinoMy Substack & Office Hours: https://brettwhitmarsh.substack.comNick Walker's original neuroqueer writing: https://neuroqueer.com/neuroqueer-an-introduction/**📚 Links Mentioned:** - Order Dr. Neff's **Autistic Burnout Workbook**: https://bookshop.org/a/108800/9781507223062- Dr. Neff's Website: https://neurodivergentinsights.com-Order Dr. Neff's Self Care for Autistic People: https://bookshop.org/a/108800/9781507221938📖 Learn more about Dr. Neff:https://www.neurodivergentinsights.com/Substack: https://substack.com/@neurodivergentinsights https://neurodivergentinsights.substack.com
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23:09
Unmasking Autism: Identity, Trauma & Healing with Dr. Megan Anna Neff
Why do so many of us feel like we’re always performing — even in our safest spaces?In this powerful and deeply resonant episode, Brett (The AudHD Boss) is joined once again by Dr. Megan Anna Neff, psychologist and founder of Neurodivergent Insights, to explore the complex emotional and psychological experience of autistic masking.Together, they discuss:How masking starts in childhood as a trauma and survival responseThe privilege, protection, and cost of masking — especially for BIPOC neurodivergent individualsThe intersection of masking with OCD, burnout, queerness, and late diagnosisWhy unmasking is not just a process — but a layered, relational, and identity-shaping journeyHow to hold nuance in the unmasking conversation, including when masking is protective or strategicThe need for self-permission, community, and compassion as we learn how to be our fullest selvesThis is one of the most honest, layered, and liberating conversations we’ve had — full of real stories, research, and reflections. Whether you’re navigating your own unmasking process or supporting someone who is, you’ll walk away with validation, insight, and the reminder that this work is not meant to be done alone.🔗 Learn more about Dr. Neff at neurodivergentinsights.com💻 Coaching and resources: audhdboss.com📺 Watch the full video on YouTube: @AudioBoss🎧 Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts#Autism #Unmasking #Neurodivergent #Masking #MentalHealth #LateDiagnosis #AutismInAdults #DrMeganAnnaNeff #QueerAndNeurodivergent #NeurodivergentIdentity #ADHD #AutisticBurnout
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37:35
Neurodivergent Leadership: Insights from Patrick Casale
How do you turn burnout into business success as a neurodivergent entrepreneur? In this compelling episode, Brett, the AuDHD Boss, sits down with Patrick Casale – therapist, private practice coach, and host of the All Things Private Practice podcast and Divergent Conversations with Dr. Megan Anna Neff– to share his journey from high-stress work environments to thriving as a self-employed ADHD and autistic business owner.In This Episode:Patrick’s path from workplace burnout to building a private practiceManaging imposter syndrome and self-doubt as a neurodivergent leaderPractical strategies for self-accommodations and executive functionCreating affirming workplaces for ADHD and autistic staffUsing fear as a gas pedal instead of a brake in businessListen now to learn how Patrick Casale transformed burnout into a thriving business while navigating the unique challenges of ADHD and autism.
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37:41
How I Manage Work Travel as an Autistic Professional – Essential Accommodations for Conferences & Events
Work travel can be a sensory and social minefield for autistic and ADHD professionals. In this episode, I share my personal strategies and accommodations for handling work trips and conferences more effectively. From sensory tools to masking plans and recovery routines, these tips can help you feel more prepared and less overwhelmed when traveling for work. Tune in to hear practical advice inspired by Dr. Megan Anna Neff’s Autistic Burnout Workbook and my own experiences as an autistic leader. #NeurodivergentWorkplace #Autism #ADHD #WorkTravel #AudHDChapters:0:00 – Introduction: Why Work Travel is Challenging for Me1:05 – Sensory Tools: Travel-Friendly Stims2:18 – Planning Downtime & Setting Alarms3:02 – Identifying Quiet Spaces & Exit Strategies3:58 – Adjusting My Masking Plan: Who Can I Unmask With?5:15 – Creating a Recovery Plan for Work Events6:21 – Maintaining Routines on the Road7:46 – Navigating Social Situations & Group Activities8:27 – Food, Water, and Rest – Meeting Basic Needs9:17 – Final Thoughts & Recommended Resources******RESOURCES**********📘Dr. Neff's "Autistic Burnout Workbook": https://bookshop.org/a/108800/9781507223062📖Self Care for Autistic People: https://bookshop.org/a/108800/9781507221938🔗Neurodivergent Insights (Dr. Neff's website): https://neurodivergentinsights.com👉🏼Discount code for Dr. Neff's digital tools: AUDHDBOSS 🎥My interview with Dr. Neff: https://youtu.be/DO-vcVOUFDg
Are you navigating corporate life with ADHD or autism? Welcome to 'The AuDHD Boss' podcast, where Brett—an autistic leader with ADHD and over a decade of managerial experience—helps neurodivergent professionals thrive in the workplace.
Learn how to harness your unique strengths, tackle challenges like executive dysfunction, and advocate for yourself at work.
From relatable personal stories to actionable advice, each episode empowers you with the tools to succeed. Whether you're an employee, a manager, or an ally, you'll find valuable insights here. Subscribe now for more!
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