Beyond 6 Seconds: Neurodiversity stories from neurodivergent people

Justin Valenti is an artist and disability advocate. He enjoys creating artwork in his home studio and at the VisAbility Art Lab at VisArts in Rockville, Maryland. He is also the business owner of Artistic Expressions by Justin K Valenti, and has exhibited his artwork in Maryland, Virginia and California. Justin has been an advocate for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities since childhood. He has been on the Board of Directors for the Arc Maryland since 2020. During this episode, you will hear Justin talk about: Learn more about Justin and his work at JKValenti2014.com and VisArtsCenter.org or contact Justin directly at justin.k.valenti [at] gmail [dot] com. Support or sponsor this podcast: BuyMeACoffee.com/Beyond6Seconds Watch the video of this interview on YouTube: youtube.com/watch?v=lbv80Y58CTU Read the episode transcript: carolynkiel.com/podcast/justin-valenti Follow the Beyond 6 Seconds podcast in your favorite podcast player: pod.link/1336740192 Subscribe to the FREE Beyond 6 Seconds newsletter for early access to new episodes: mailchi.mp/f9f6e8356138/insider *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.*

Amy Richards is a queer autistic podcaster and business owner from Cardiff in the UK. Amy became self-employed in 2015, after multiple burnouts culminated in a breakdown that ended her previous career as a high school English and Media teacher. With her business hat on, she offers business strategy sessions, builds websites and supports online business owners with their websites, email marketing and automation. In 2020, Amy started a podcast called Squarepeg, where she chats with one autistic guest at a time about their autism discovery journey and what they've learned along the way. Amy is also a Nervous System Regulation practitioner, working with other autistic adults to help them become better regulated, less anxious and have more energy. During this episode, you will hear Amy talk about: Learn more about Amy and her podcast on the Squarepeg website at https://squarepeg.community or by email at hello [at] squarepeg.community . Support or sponsor this podcast: BuyMeACoffee.com/Beyond6Seconds Watch the video of this interview on YouTube: youtube.com/watch?v=u1jx3u_ev0E Read the episode transcript: carolynkiel.com/podcast/sharing-autistic-stories Follow the Beyond 6 Seconds podcast in your favorite podcast player: pod.link/1336740192 Subscribe to the FREE Beyond 6 Seconds newsletter for early access to new episodes: mailchi.mp/f9f6e8356138/insider *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.*

Pastiche Graham is a proud autism advocate, emerging motivational speaker, children's book author and powerhouse for change and inclusion. After being featured on the CBS Television show Undercover Boss in 2022 (Season 11, Episode 4), Pastiche's platform pivoted towards a lifelong journey of advocacy. Pastiche's first book, "Pia Pistachio Gets a Job," features much-needed representation of autistic girls in children's literature. In this episode, we talk about Pastiche's journey from disheartened autistic child to enthusiastic autism advocate & author, the impact of appearing on Undercover Boss, and the inspiration for "Pia Pistachio Gets a Job." Pastiche also discusses the importance of autism representation: specifically for autistic women and girls in literature, and for autistic adults in the workplace. Learn more about Pastiche at PasticheGraham.com and buy "Pia Pistachio Gets a Job" on Amazon or wherever books are sold. Follow Pastiche on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and Threads. Support or sponsor this podcast at BuyMeACoffee.com/Beyond6Seconds! Watch the video of this interview on YouTube. Read the episode transcript. 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. *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.*

Max Barrows is an award-winning disability rights leader and advocate based in Vermont. As the Outreach Director for Green Mountain Self-Advocates, Max mentors people with developmental disabilities to speak up for themselves and become leaders. Max is also the Assistant Director of Technical Assistance and Outreach for the Self-Advocacy Resource and Technical Assistance Center (SARTAC), where he works to strengthen local and state self-advocacy organizations across the United States. During this episode, you will hear Max talk about: Learn more about Green Mountain Self-Advocates and the Self-Advocacy Resource and Technical Assistance Center (SARTAC) where Max works. Contribute to Carolyn's tip jar to support the Beyond 6 Seconds podcast's disability advocacy. Watch the video of this interview on YouTube. Read the episode transcript. 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. *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.*

With a career across media, tech, and entertainment, Kirsty Cullen-Campanelli has held roles at the BBC, Netflix and Apple. Her experience as a corporate executive and a late-diagnosed Autistic woman with ADHD have shaped her neuroinclusive leadership style. On my latest episode, Kirsty shares what life is like for her as an autistic corporate executive with ADHD, and how discovering her autism and ADHD shifted her understanding of herself. She also discusses her approach to creating inclusive workplace cultures, managing teams, conducting job interviews, and navigating high-pressure environments. Connect with Kirsty on LinkedIn. Support or sponsor this podcast at BuyMeACoffee.com/Beyond6Seconds! Watch the video of this interview on YouTube. Read the episode transcript. 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. *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.*

Sania Khimji is an accomplished artist, model, influencer, and international beauty pageant winner based in India who continues to redefine boundaries and inspire inclusivity in every space she enters. Living with Down syndrome, Sania celebrates her uniqueness as just one part of her powerful story that's rooted in creativity, confidence, and courage. Through her art, modeling, and advocacy, Sania continues to shine as a global voice for empowerment — showing the world that when you lead with passion, purpose, and pride, there are truly no limits to what you can achieve. During this episode, you will hear Sania talk about: Follow or contact Sania on Instagram. Contribute to Carolyn's tip jar to support the Beyond 6 Seconds podcast's disability advocacy. Watch the video of this interview on YouTube. Read the episode transcript. 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. *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.*

This is a special Beyond 6 Seconds episode for Podcasthon, where for one week, thousands of podcasts are highlighting a nonprofit of their choice, to raise awareness and encourage support for charities around the world. The focus of this episode is Meals in the Meantime, a nonprofit organization addressing food insecurity in the Chicagoland south suburbs. Meals in the Meantime provides free, fresh, healthy, high-quality grocery bags of food at drive-thru, pop-up food pantries. I interviewed Kevin M. Yates, President and Founder of Meals in the Meantime, about: Learn more about how you can support Meals in the Meantime at MealsInTheMeantime.org and follow them on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube and LinkedIn. Visit podcasthon.org to discover charities featured by podcasters from around the world. Support or sponsor this podcast at BuyMeACoffee.com/Beyond6Seconds! Watch the video of this interview on YouTube. Read the episode transcript. 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. *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.*

Psychotherapist Ivy Rizzo has a master's degree, speaks multiple languages, and owns her own business... but she struggles with doing basic math, remembering important dates, and recalling events in chronological order. Dyscalculia is often dismissed as just being "bad at math," but for Ivy, it has a wide-ranging effect on her life. In this episode, Ivy talks about: how she visualizes the months of the year To find out more about Ivy and her work, visit her website and follow her on Threads. If you enjoyed this episode about dyscalculia, you may also enjoy my episode about dyscalculia education and advocacy with Elena Chambers (episode 190). Watch the video of this interview on YouTube. Read the episode transcript. 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. *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.*

Sonido Reyes is an award-winning and bestselling author who is best known for tackling difficult topics through a hopeful lens. They write stories celebrating their own queer and Mexican identities, including The Lesbiana's Guide to Catholic School, The Luis Ortega Survival Club, The Broposal, and The Golden Boy's Guide to Bipolar. They also have contributed short stories to the anthologies Transmogrify! and For the Rest of Us. Sonido is also the vice-president of My Galvanized Friend, a nonprofit focused on providing access to and amplifying LGBTQ+ writing, art, and creators. During this episode, you will hear Sonido talk about: Visit SonidoReyes.carrd.co for links to Sonido's website, writing and social media. If you enjoyed this episode, you may also enjoy my conversation about schizoaffective disorder with Sally Littlefield on episode 243 of this podcast. This episode is sponsored by Tas Kronby, Accessibility Consultant & Designer: Parallax scrolling, scroll bar hijacking, flickering, and neon colors are ruining your design—they trigger dizziness, migraines, and vertigo. You've audited for vision and hearing compliance. But does your online content make people sick? Tas Kronby offers Vestibular Accessibility Audits that go beyond compliance. Learn what you need to make your business truly inclusive. Tas will help you Design with All in Mind. Visit TasTheArtist.com/design-services/ to schedule your free consultation. Watch the video of this interview on YouTube. Read the episode transcript. 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. *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.*

This episode is a special collaboration between Beyond 6 Seconds and the Living with FASD podcast hosted by Patti Kasper. Fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD) are lifelong conditions caused by prenatal alcohol exposure that can impact physical, cognitive, and behavioral development. FASD is a type of neurodivergence, but it's often left out of conversations about neurodivergence. This episode is part of a series that Patti is doing on her podcast to help bring FASD into those conversations. We discuss what communication differences can feel like for people with certain types of neurodivergence, such as FASD, autism (including apraxia in non-speaking autism), ADHD, and schizophrenia. We also explore why communication challenges can happen, and how friends and loved ones can help provide understanding and support. A quick caveat: This conversation is not medical or diagnostic advice, and it does not speak for every neurodivergent person. Instead, Patti and I are sharing our own experiences and some insights from the people we've interviewed on our podcasts. You can find Living with FASD podcast on Apple, Audible, Patreon, Pocket Casts, Rumble and YouTube, and connect with Patti at dot.cards/yourfasdcoach. Do the things we mention in this episode match your experience as a neurodivergent person? Do you have other experiences? Let me know what you think! Watch the video of this interview on YouTube. Read the episode transcript. 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. *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.*

Nieta Greene is the Chief Executive Officer and Founder of Disability Community for Democracy, Inc., an organization focused on safeguarding the rights of individuals within the disability community and providing a platform for political engagement founded on intersectional disability justice. She is a resilient and proud Disabled Puerto Rican, Black, gender non-conforming, gay woman. Nieta openly champions her identity as she advocates for inclusivity and belonging on behalf of those unable to voice their concerns. During this episode, Nieta talks about: Learn more about Nieta and Disability Community for Democracy at DisabilityCommunityForDemocracy.org, subscribe to Nieta's Substack Nothing About Us Without Us and find social media and other links on Linktree. Contribute to Carolyn's tip jar to support the Beyond 6 Seconds podcast's disability advocacy. Watch the video of this interview on YouTube. Read the episode transcript. 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. *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.*

In this year-end solo episode, I celebrate some big milestones that Beyond 6 Seconds achieved in 2025, highlight the variety of topics that my guests and I discussed on my podcast, and share what podcasting-related things I've been up to this year! I also reflect on several challenges that the neurodivergent and disability communities are facing in the United States, and share my focus for the year ahead. Watch the video of this interview on YouTube. Read the episode transcript, which also contains links to some of the other podcasts and resources I mention in this episode. 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.*

Caroline Smith founded her business, The Introverted Misfit, to help shy, awkward introverts become socially confident versions of themselves so they can have healthy, manageable social lives. Because of her experience with being autistic, which was the source of many social difficulties and major social anxiety for her, she knows what it's like to build self-acceptance, self-improvement, and a life that works for individualized needs. Now Caroline helps fellow introverts (whether they are autistic or not) learn how to connect with others, create fruitful relationships, and have a manageable social life – without acting like someone they're not! During this episode, you will hear Caroline talk about: To learn more about Caroline, her coaching program and Misfit Meetups, visit TheIntrovertedMisfit.com and follow her on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn. Download Caroline's FREE AUDIO GUIDE: 3 Simple Ways to Start a Conversation with Anyone. Watch the video of this interview on YouTube. Read the episode transcript. 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.*

Kellina Powell, known as the Deaf Queen Boss, is a podcast speaker, best-selling author, and passionate advocate for the deaf and disability communities. She empowers young adults with disabilities to chase their dreams, breaks down barriers around mental health, and educates others about deaf culture and inclusion. During this episode, you will hear Kellina talk about: Learn more about Kellina and her work at KellinaEmpowerment.com and follow her on Instagram and LinkedIn. Watch the video of this interview on YouTube. Read the episode transcript. 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.*

Tiffany Hammond is a New York Times bestselling author, speaker, and disability advocate. She is the author of A Day with No Words, a picture book about a Black mother and son who use a tablet to communicate with each other and the world around them. A Day With No Words successfully normalizes communication methods outside of verbal speech and provides representation of neurodiversity and autism in a way that affirms and celebrates. Through Tiffany's platform, Fidgets and Fries, she shares stories about autism, identity, and the fullness of Black and disabled family life. She is the proud mother of two autistic sons and uses her lived experiences to shift narratives around autism and communication. Win a copy of A Day with No Words! For a limited-time, Beyond 6 Seconds is giving away a hardcover copy of "A Day with No Words" to up to 3 listeners in the United States. To enter, check out my pinned Instagram post @beyond6seconds on November 11, 2025. The giveaway ends at 11:59 PM ET on November 21, 2025.⁠ Up to 3 winners will be selected at random. This giveaway is valid for listeners at US addresses only. During this episode, you will hear Tiffany talk about: Learn more Tiffany and her work at FidgetsAndFries.co and ADayWithNoWords.com. Follow Tiffany on Facebook, Instagram and Substack. Watch the video of this interview on YouTube. Read the episode transcript. 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.*

As a dyslexic child, Sabrina Fandell had to sit in her school's book closet for her reading lessons. Now she sits on the Board of Directors of the International Dyslexia Association - Dallas Branch. She is passionate about fostering inclusive environments and advocating for neurodivergent students in school. During this episode, Sabrina talks about: Learn more about the International Dyslexia Association Dallas Branch, their hotline and their scholarship program for dyslexia testing. Follow the International Dyslexia Association Dallas Branch on Facebook and Instagram. Watch the video of this interview on YouTube. Read the episode transcript. 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.*

Ava N. Simmons, also known as Ava The S.T.E.M. Princess®, is a 12-year-old S.T.E.M. Ambassador, Entrepreneur, Toy Designer, Author, and the creator of educational toy brand Team Genius Squad. Diagnosed with dyslexia and dysgraphia in 2021, Ava used S.T.E.M. (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) and S.T.E.A.M. (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Mathematics) and entrepreneurial activities to help overcome her academic challenges and build her confidence. To share her learning journey and encourage others, Ava creates engaging S.T.E.M.-based educational videos, authors S.T.E.M. books, conducts peer-to-peer S.T.E.M. activities in the community, and develops S.T.E.M. toys for children ages 5-13, including children who are neurodivergent or in underserved areas. She has conducted thousands of peer-to-peer S.T.E.M. experiments with children in the community, over 700,000 households have viewed her educational videos, she has authored 3 books, and developed 15 branded S.T.E.M. Educational Toys. Additionally, she is the Host of the PBS Kids Channel Show from PBS North Carolina called Mini Fab Science Lab, and her STEM-STEAM kits are featured in the Scholastic Catalog. During this episode, you will hear Ava talk about: ● Her experience in school as a student with dyslexia and dysgraphia ● How she got interested in S.T.E.M. at a young age ● How Team Genius Squad helps make S.T.E.M./S.T.E.A.M. more accessible to kids everywhere ● Where she gets ideas for her experiment kits ● The origin of her PBS Kids Channel show, Mini Fab Science Lab Learn more about Ava: Team Genius Squad storeMini Fab Science LabFacebookInstagramLinkedInTikTokYouTubeScholastic Dollars 2025-2026 Catalog Watch the video of this interview on YouTube. Read the episode transcript. 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.*

Caroline Mincks is a writer, director, and voice actor who is best known for their audio drama “Seen and Not Heard,” which is about navigating hearing loss as an adult. Seen and Not Heard features disability representation, including deaf, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and autistic characters. Caroline also works as a consultant, assisting other creators in making their shows accessible to as many people as possible. During this episode, you will hear Caroline talk about: Listen to Seen and Not Heard on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts, and follow the show on BlueSky and Tumblr. Watch the video of this interview on YouTube. Read the episode transcript. 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.*

Content note: This episode describes my guest’s experience with psychosis, delusions, and suicidality / suicide attempts. Sally Littlefield is a national speaker and mental health advocate dedicated to changing how the world understands schizophrenia. After experiencing a 10-month long psychotic episode that led to a diagnosis of schizoaffective disorder, she returned to work in communications and fundraising roles at three mental health nonprofits. This professional experience deepened her insight into trauma, stigma, and systemic barriers faced by people with serious mental illnesses. Sally’s writing has appeared in Slate, STAT News, and Psychology Today, and she has been featured in national media such as the Associated Press and the television network A+E. Now a full-time advocate, she offers talks and trainings focused on stigma reduction, recovery, and mental health crisis de-escalation. Her mission is to promote empathy, dignity, and understanding for people with schizophrenia. During this episode, you will hear Sally talk about: Learn more about Sally and her work at SallyLittlefield.com, on LinkedIn and on Instagram @schizophrenicsally. Watch the video of this interview on YouTube. Read the episode transcript. 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.*

Content note: This episode discusses abuse in a religious cult, gender dysphoria, body dysmorphia, and the negative impact of U.S. current events on marginalized people. Tas The Artist is an autistic, queer, disabled and deaf graphic artist, illustrator, and advocate who blends storytelling with a passion for accessible design. Tas supports fellow members of their community through vocational coaching, developing adaptive curriculum materials and advocating for workplace accessibility. Whether they are creating a surrealist horror piece or working in advocacy, Tas brings a thoughtful, inclusive, and innovative approach to every aspect of their professional life. During this episode, you will hear Tas talk about: Learn more about Tas and their work at TasTheArtist.com or on LinkedIn. Watch the video of this interview on YouTube. Read the episode transcript. 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.*