Neurodiversity-affirming support for autism and ADHD – with Samar Waqar of Kind Theory
Beyond 6 Seconds: Neurodiversity stories from neurodivergent people
03/17/25
•27m
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This episode is part of the 3rd edition of Podcasthon: a global effort among 1000+ podcast hosts to raise awareness and support for important causes by highlighting a charity of their choice during the same week (March 15-21, 2025).
Today's episode features Samar Waqar, the Founder and Executive Director of Kind Theory, a neurodiversity-based nonprofit based in Texas. Using the insights and knowledge of neurodivergent people themselves, Kind Theory educates organizations, institutions, and the general public about neurodiversity, accessibility, and disability rights as these relate to autism and ADHD. In doing so, it improves educational, health, and employment outcomes for these marginalized members of our community.
During this episode, you will hear Samar talk about:
- How her experiences with her autistic son's therapy and her own burnout inspired her to create Kind Theory
- The events and services that Kind Theory provides for neurodivergent people in Texas and beyond
- Discovering that she is neurodivergent herself
Learn more about Kind Theory at kindtheory.org. Get in touch with Samar at talktous [at] kindtheory.org or on LinkedIn.
Visit www.podcasthon.org to discover hundreds of other nonprofits and charities being highlighted during Podcasthon by podcasters around the world!
Watch the video of this interview on YouTube.
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*Disclaimer: The views, guidance, opinions, and thoughts expressed in Beyond 6 Seconds episodes are solely mine and/or those of my guests, and do not necessarily represent those of my employer or other organizations. These episodes are for informational purposes only and do not substitute for professional medical advice. Consult a medical professional or healthcare provider if you are seeking medical advice, diagnoses, or treatment.*
Previous Episode
Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) – with Jessica Birch
February 24, 2025
•43m
Jessica Birch is a national advocate and speaker living on the South East Coast of Australia. Since her late diagnosis of Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) at the age of 33, she has turned her attention to awareness building and education to create a better understanding of the prevalence and consequences of prenatal alcohol exposure in Australia.
Jessica shares her lived expertise in an effort to equip individuals, parents/carers, educators and health professionals with the information they need to create successful interventions and support. She believes awareness and action are key to minimizing the rate of prenatal alcohol exposure globally and works closely with organizations, stakeholders and government on alcohol policy and regulatory reform.
During this episode, you will hear Jessica talk about:
- Her life growing up with undiagnosed FASD
- How she learned what FASD is and how it applies to her
- Her concerns about doctors being unaware and minimizing the effects of FASD
- How receiving the diagnosis changed her outlook on life
- Types of outside support that she receives for FASD
To find out more about Jessica and her work, check out her website at www.jbtalksfasd.com.au, email her at jessicabirch.fasd at gmail dot com, and follow her on Instagram @jb_talksfasd and Twitter/X at @JB_TalksFASD.
Watch the video of this interview on YouTube.
Follow the Beyond 6 Seconds podcast in your favorite podcast player.
Subscribe to the FREE Beyond 6 Seconds newsletter for early access to new episodes.
Support or sponsor this podcast at BuyMeACoffee.com/Beyond6Seconds!
*Disclaimer: The views, guidance, opinions, and thoughts expressed in Beyond 6 Seconds episodes are solely mine and/or those of my guests, and do not necessarily represent those of my employer or other organizations. These episodes are for informational purposes only and do not substitute for professional medical advice. Consult a medical professional or healthcare provider if you are seeking medical advice, diagnoses, or treatment.*
Next Episode
Trans and ADHD inclusion – with Trystan Reese
March 31, 2025
•31m
Trystan Reese is an award-winning author and facilitator dedicated to diversity, equity, and inclusion, with nearly two decades of experience in the trans community. He also has ADHD and identifies as neurodivergent. Trystan founded Collaborate Consulting to provide training on LGBTQ+ inclusion and has contributed to various anthologies on mental health and social justice.
During this episode, Trystan and I talk about:
- How he realized he had ADHD after his child was diagnosed
- What it was like growing up with undiagnosed ADHD, and the impact on his education and self-image
- How he coaches people in the workplace who have ADHD
- What workplace inclusion looks like for neurodivergent individuals
- How workplaces can support their neurodivergent and trans employees
- The negative impact of the current US government administration on trans people, including the current multi-state lawsuit Texas vs. Becerra that threatens both the trans and disability communities
Learn more about Trystan and his work at Collaborate.Consulting.
Watch the video of this interview on YouTube.
Follow the Beyond 6 Seconds podcast in your favorite podcast player.
Subscribe to the FREE Beyond 6 Seconds newsletter for early access to new episodes.
Support or sponsor this podcast at BuyMeACoffee.com/Beyond6Seconds!
*Disclaimer: The views, guidance, opinions, and thoughts expressed in Beyond 6 Seconds episodes are solely mine and/or those of my guests, and do not necessarily represent those of my employer or other organizations. These episodes are for informational purposes only and do not substitute for professional medical advice. Consult a medical professional or healthcare provider if you are seeking medical advice, diagnoses, or treatment.*
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