Beyond Deconstructing Episode 1.13 - Stephen Brodeur

Beyond Deconstructing Neurodivergence

Welcome to Episode 1.13 of Beyond Deconstructing. I’m T Jamaica Pogue, affectionately known as Deconstructing Neuro, and I’m on a journey to help reframe how we understand and treat neurodivergence - in particular autism. TW: Depression / Suicide In this episode I welcome back Stephen Brodeur (Episode 1.10) and have a very candid conversation about the struggles of living in a society that is designed to disadvantage us all, but doubles down on those with marginalized identities. It is just as important to highlight the ways we struggle as we do with our "autistic superpowers" because not showing both sides of the experience continues to harm us with misrepresentation. As empowering as it is to stand firm in your identity and celebrate the ways your differences benefit you, we must also be honest about they ways they hinder us. If we want to be able to reach people and edify them in their experiences, we have to show all sides of the equation. Check out Episode 1.10 to learn more about Stephen and his journey with discovering his neurodivergence and unmasking as a late diagnosed autistic here - https://youtu.be/fLTE-EMHp_M I can be found @deconstructing.neuro on TikTok and Instagram, @decon_neuro on Twitter as well as @tjamaicapogue on all socials. * Deconstructing Neurodivergence is a series that aims to dismantle the harmful stereotypes and assumptions about neurodivergent people - in particular autistic and ADHDers - and the many negative effects that hinder us from receiving a proper diagnosis and adequate accommodations to live a life where we can thrive instead of fighting to survive. *