In this episode of Build & Thrive, host Jennie Armstrong is joined by Jacqui Wallis, CEO of Genius Within, to explore a topic many in the construction industry are only just beginning to understand: neurodiversity at work.

With over 25 years of experience and her own lived perspective as a neurodivergent leader, Jacqui brings insight, empathy, and practical solutions to a conversation that’s long overdue. Together, Jennie and Jacqui unpack what neurodiversity really means - covering both lifelong and acquired cognitive differences - and how these impact productivity, communication, safety, and wellbeing in high-pressure, fast-paced environments like construction.

You’ll learn:

• What neurodiversity is (and isn’t)
• Why construction may have a higher prevalence of neurodivergent workers
• What the latest CITB-backed research says about prevalence and disclosure
• How workplace design, communication style, and onboarding practices affect performance
• Simple, no-cost strategies to better support your people
• Why awareness is no longer enough - and where to go for free training and tools

Jacqui also shares a powerful case study from a suicide prevention charity, offering a sobering reminder of the real human cost when mental health and cognitive health are overlooked.

🎧 If you’re ready to build a more inclusive, productive, and resilient workforce - this episode is essential listening.

🎧 https://www.buzzsprout.com/2431164 (or search your podcast app)

📺 https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLEoibJLDuFnnT3qSQw37LKPG6xlyvCj7B

🔹 Thank you to our sponsor, GKR Scaffolding, for supporting this series and helping us share our mission of improving health and wellbeing in construction.

Episode Links:

Jennie Armstrong: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniearmstrong/

Construction Health & Wellbeing: https://constructionhealth.co.uk/

Jacqui Wallis:

• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jacquiwallis/ / https://www.linkedin.com/company/genius-within-cic/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jacswol/
• Website: https://geniuswithin.org/
• Linktree: https://linktr.ee/GeniusWithinCIC
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@geniuswithincic
• Genius Finder: Welcome | Genius Finder

GKR Scaffolding (sponsor): https://gkrscaffolding.co.uk/

Are you investing in a healthier and happier workforce? Take our quick, free assessment to uncover how your organisation measures up in occupational health & wellbeing. Get personalised insights and actionable steps to make a real difference.

👉 Check Your Score Now