{"href":"http://player.captivate.fm/services/oembed?url=http%3A%2F%2Fplayer.captivate.fm%2Fepisode%2Ff8f3897c-0387-4e7e-bd6b-1460357386a2","version":"1.0","provider_name":"Captivate.FM","provider_url":"https://www.captivate.fm","width":600,"height":200,"type":"rich","html":"","title":"235. Neurodiversity & Connection With Jenine Lillian","description":"In this episode, I welcome neurodiversity consultant Jenine Lillian to discuss their journey to an autism spectrum disorder diagnosis, overcoming societal expectations, and building an inclusive world. Janine shares their unique perspective, emphasizing the importance of self-acceptance, connection, and actionable steps to live authentically. \n\n- **[00:00] - Intro and Welcome** \nAmanda introduces Jenine Lillian, highlighting their work as a neurodiversity consultant and their warm personality. \n\n- **[02:00] - Jenine\u2019s Journey to Diagnosis** \nJenine shares their story of receiving a formal autism diagnosis at 52 and the barriers they faced along the way. \n\n- **[10:30] - Navigating Neurodivergence** \nJenine discusses the challenges of masking, societal expectations, and the importance of authentic connections. \n\n- **[18:45] - Self-Care and Rest** \nThe power of walking without a phone, limiting sensory input, and finding joy in quiet moments. \n\n- **[26:15] - Breaking Down Stereotypes** \nJenine shares why labels like \u201ctoo sensitive\u201d or \u201coverly emotional\u201d can be harmful and the need to treat people as individuals. \n\n- **[34:50] - Building Community** \nAmanda and Jenine reflect on the value of saying \u201cgood morning\u201d and creating layers of connection in life. \n\n- **[42:00] - Addressing Inner Criticism** \nHow self-worth, dismantling past trauma, and embracing optimism can lead to empowerment. \n\n- **[50:30] - What Janine Offers** \nJenine talks about their business, including workshops for employers, executive dysfunction support, and their role as a resource for adults navigating neurodivergence. \n\n- **[57:15] - The Importance of Play and Experimentation** \nJenine encourages listeners to try new things and \u201ctry on\u201d new ideas to discover what brings them joy. \n\n- **[01:03:00] - Final Thoughts and Homework** \nJenine leaves listeners with practical homework: take 20 minutes today to do something restorative for yourself. \n\n---\n\n **Resources and Links** \n\n **Connect with Jenine Lillian**: \n Visit their website at jeninelillian.com\n\n **Amanda\u2019s Coaching Services**: \n Book a free discovery call at amandahess.ca\n\n---\n\n**Key Quotes** \n\n- *\"There\u2019s nothing wrong with you. It\u2019s about finding the support you need to thrive.\"* \u2013 Janine Lillian \n- *\"When you give without expecting something in return, you find the most authentic connections.\"* \u2013 Amanda \n\n---\n\nIf you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review and share it with someone who might benefit from Janine\u2019s insights. Let\u2019s build a world that\u2019s more inclusive for everyone! \n\nJenine Lillian Bio\nJenine Lillian (Jenine, they/them) is a Neurodiversity Consultant, educator, artist, writer,\nand librarian. For more than 20 years, Jenine has taught and presented across the\npublic library sector in both the United States and Canada. Jenine has received national\nrecognition for their advocacy and library work with teens. After receiving a very\nlate-in-life diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Jenine started their\nneurodiversity consultancy to raise awareness, reduce stigma and increase inclusion for\nneurodiversity and other invisible disabilities. Jenine lives in the Kootenays, British\nColumbia, where they can be found making art, talking with folks on sidewalks,\nbirdwatching, building community through service and networking, and practicing\nself-care. You can reach Jenine at info@jeninelillian.com and explore their website at\nwww.jeninelillian.com.\nContact Jenine Lillian\ninfo@jeninelillian.com email\nwww.jeninelillian.com website","thumbnail_width":300,"thumbnail_height":300,"thumbnail_url":"https://artwork.captivate.fm/5527e17e-34b9-4a35-a098-24e169629fa7/2.jpg"}