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551 | Queer and Neurodivergent Pride - Panel Discussion 2025
Manage episode 488601891 series 3563039
Join host Eric Tivers and three incredible panelists—Nathan James, Meg Zirger, and Christal Wang—for the second-annual Neurodivergent Queer Pride panel, organized by Shimmer. In this landmark conversation, we explore:
Masking vs. Unmasking: Why hiding feels safe and how reclaiming your authentic self fuels resilience.
Intersectional Identities: How ADHD, autism, and LGBTQ+ pride intersect—and why that intersection is a source of strength.
Political Climate & Pride: Strategies for holding onto joy and courage when the world feels heavy.
Power of Community: From isolation to solidarity—why peer support is essential for lasting change.
Whether you’re neurodivergent, queer, an ally, or simply curious, this panel offers actionable insights, heartfelt stories, and affirmations to help you thrive.
🎯 Key TakeawaysMasking Is Exhausting
Childhood “survival mode” often becomes adult burnout.
Unmasking is an ongoing, courageous process of self-discovery.
ADHD + Queer = Unique Superpower
Both identities challenge “scripts” society hands us.
Embracing difference unlocks creativity, empathy, and authenticity.
Pride Under Pressure
Celebrate safely: balance vigilance with joy.
Collective conversation and advocacy build courage.
Community as Catalyst
Small cohorts and online groups reduce shame and spark accountability.
Shared experiences create “me-too” moments that heal and empower.
00:00 Welcome & Episode Intro
01:04 What Is Neurodivergent Queer Pride?
03:07 Panelist Introductions & Backgrounds
09:30 Personal Identity Journeys: “Scripts” & Masking
17:36 Societal Expectations: Fitting In vs. Standing Out
29:18 Deep Dive on Masking & Self-Acceptance
38:59 Holding Pride in a Difficult Political Climate
48:12 The Role of Community in Connection & Healing
54:48 Final Affirmations & Advice
57:41 Closing Thoughts & Next Steps
Join ADHD reWired Coaching & Accountability Groups (Season 41) ▸ Live kickoff: Wed, June 18 • 2 PM CT ▸ Pre-registration due: Tue, June 17 • 2 PM CT ▸ 👉 https://www.coachingrewired.com
Shimmer (Episode organizer; online ADHD coaching platform) ▸ Co-founder & panel host: Christal Wang 👉 https://www.shimmerplatform.com
Adult Study Hall (24/7 ADHD-friendly coworking) 👉 https://www.adultstudyhall.com
Subscribe to ADHD reWired so you never miss an episode.
Share this episode with friends who identify as neurodivergent, queer, or allies.
Explore our summer Coaching & Accountability Groups to turn these insights into real-world growth.
Your whole self belongs. Let’s celebrate, connect, and thrive—together.
568 episodes
Manage episode 488601891 series 3563039
Join host Eric Tivers and three incredible panelists—Nathan James, Meg Zirger, and Christal Wang—for the second-annual Neurodivergent Queer Pride panel, organized by Shimmer. In this landmark conversation, we explore:
Masking vs. Unmasking: Why hiding feels safe and how reclaiming your authentic self fuels resilience.
Intersectional Identities: How ADHD, autism, and LGBTQ+ pride intersect—and why that intersection is a source of strength.
Political Climate & Pride: Strategies for holding onto joy and courage when the world feels heavy.
Power of Community: From isolation to solidarity—why peer support is essential for lasting change.
Whether you’re neurodivergent, queer, an ally, or simply curious, this panel offers actionable insights, heartfelt stories, and affirmations to help you thrive.
🎯 Key TakeawaysMasking Is Exhausting
Childhood “survival mode” often becomes adult burnout.
Unmasking is an ongoing, courageous process of self-discovery.
ADHD + Queer = Unique Superpower
Both identities challenge “scripts” society hands us.
Embracing difference unlocks creativity, empathy, and authenticity.
Pride Under Pressure
Celebrate safely: balance vigilance with joy.
Collective conversation and advocacy build courage.
Community as Catalyst
Small cohorts and online groups reduce shame and spark accountability.
Shared experiences create “me-too” moments that heal and empower.
00:00 Welcome & Episode Intro
01:04 What Is Neurodivergent Queer Pride?
03:07 Panelist Introductions & Backgrounds
09:30 Personal Identity Journeys: “Scripts” & Masking
17:36 Societal Expectations: Fitting In vs. Standing Out
29:18 Deep Dive on Masking & Self-Acceptance
38:59 Holding Pride in a Difficult Political Climate
48:12 The Role of Community in Connection & Healing
54:48 Final Affirmations & Advice
57:41 Closing Thoughts & Next Steps
Join ADHD reWired Coaching & Accountability Groups (Season 41) ▸ Live kickoff: Wed, June 18 • 2 PM CT ▸ Pre-registration due: Tue, June 17 • 2 PM CT ▸ 👉 https://www.coachingrewired.com
Shimmer (Episode organizer; online ADHD coaching platform) ▸ Co-founder & panel host: Christal Wang 👉 https://www.shimmerplatform.com
Adult Study Hall (24/7 ADHD-friendly coworking) 👉 https://www.adultstudyhall.com
Subscribe to ADHD reWired so you never miss an episode.
Share this episode with friends who identify as neurodivergent, queer, or allies.
Explore our summer Coaching & Accountability Groups to turn these insights into real-world growth.
Your whole self belongs. Let’s celebrate, connect, and thrive—together.
568 episodes
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