"The Intersection of Neurodivergence and Workplace Safety" with Ben Walkenhorst - Pt 3
Neurodivergence, Feedback & Psychological Safety at Work (Dear Dyslexic Podcast) This episode of the Dear Dyslexic podcast explores how feedback and workplace practices can impact neurodivergent people, including those with dyslexia, ADHD, and autism, particularly when feedback feels overly critical or triggering due to past experiences. The conversation focuses on the role of great leadership in giving feedback privately and safely, discussing practical adjustments like changing red markup colors and reframing “feedback” as “advice.” It also covers how constant check-ins can raise anxiety and suggests creating adult-adult relationships where employees have permission to speak up about what works for them. The guest emphasizes the importance of training leaders in psychological, social, and emotional dynamics and neurodivergence, linking psychological safety to improved productivity and business outcomes, alongside growing legal and regulatory obligations in Australia. 00:00 Welcome to Dear Dyslexic 00:33 Feedback and RSD 02:13 Better Ways to Give Feedback 03:54 Advice Not Feedback 04:20 Checking In Without Anxiety 06:05 Adult Adult Leadership 07:27 Training Leaders on Neurodiversity 10:11 Business Case and Compliance 12:22 Wrap Up and Next Episode 15:19 Resources and Sign Off