What does “getting diagnosed” really mean—beyond the label?
In this episode of Odd Ducklings, Daria and Katie untangle all the tension, hope, fear, and possibility that come with pursuing or living with a neurodivergent diagnosis in adulthood.
We talk about:
The pressure to simplify complex neuro stories for the algorithm
How labels can hurt or heal
Disclosure, boundaries, and navigating judgement at work
Tools like the “Workplace Adjustment Passport” and real talk about asking for what you need
If you’ve ever whispered to yourself, “Do I even deserve the label—or is it just another performance?” — this one’s for you.
🎧 Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your pods
📺 Watch the full conversation on YouTube
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Drop a comment or question below—what parts of diagnosis feel messy or clear to you? We might do a follow-up just based on your messages.
Stay odd, friend.
Welcome back to Odd Ducklings! In today’s episode, I’m diving into why we should talk about failure — especially as neurodivergent creators. Inspired by agile culture and messy life lessons, I’m unpacking how owning mistakes reduces shame, builds resilience, and fuels creativity.This is Day 3 (AND 4 MAYBE?) of my 7-day challenge to post one video a day around creativity, neurodiversity, ADHD, perfectionism, and the unpredictable process of making things happen (or not) and learning from it.You can also check my reaction to this video where I make fun and painfully judge my current AND old self for all the obvious reasons! 😁https://youtu.be/94acr-GKpBsNew video every day this week — let’s see where this takes us.🎥 Subscribe, like, comment — your feedback means everything.
Welcome to Odd Ducklings! In this reaction episode, I’m looking back at a video I made about failure — and reflecting on how my thoughts have shifted since then. It’s a raw, honest check-in with my past self about growth, making mistakes, and learning out loud.You can also check my old video if you prefer 😁https://youtu.be/xjme70i83GoThis is Day 3 (AND 4 MAYBE?) of my 7-day challenge, releasing one video a day on creativity, neurodiversity, ADHD, perfectionism, and making imperfect things happen.New video every day this week — let’s see where this takes us.🎥 Subscribe, like, comment — your feedback means everything.
We're back with a new episode, reacting to Cinema Therapy's take on "Wreck-It Ralph"! We keep things light and conversational while also digging into the themes of neurodiversity we see reflected in Ralph's story. Join us as we share our personal experiences and connect them to the movie in surprising and insightful ways.Huge thanks to our ADHD buddies at @CinemaTherapyShow We Also highly recommend Checking their episode on 'Luca' if you haven't already! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WFtxIZWZbeULet us know what we missed in the comments!❤️❤️❤️❤️Daria and Katie-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------This video contains copyrighted material used under Fair Use (Section 107 of the Copyright Act) for purposes of commentary, criticism, and education. Clips from Wreck-It Ralph (© Disney) and Cinema Therapy’s video are used transformatively. No copyright infringement is intended.This video contains copyrighted material used under Fair Use (Section 107 of the Copyright Act) for purposes of commentary, criticism, and education. Clips from Wreck-It Ralph (© Disney) and Cinema Therapy’s video are used transformatively. No copyright infringement is intended. 🔵ATTRIBUTION 🔵Cinema Therapy. Therapist Reacts to WRECK-IT RALPH. YouTube. Sept 15, 2023, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PWI1F6xUGlQWritten by: Megan Seawright, Jonathan Decker, and Alan SeawrightProduced by: Jonathan Decker, Megan Seawright, Alan Seawright, and Corinne DemyanovichEdited by: Emily ColtonDirector of Photography: Bradley Olsen
Welcome to Odd Ducklings! This is the kickoff to a 7-day challenge where I’ll release one video every day — tackling topics around creativity, neurodiversity, ADHD, perfectionism, and the messy process of making things happen.This intro episode is about why I’m doing this challenge, what I hope to learn, and how I’m pushing past overthinking to just create.Whether you’re neurodivergent, a cautious creator, or just trying to get unstuck — I’d love for you to join, share your thoughts, and help shape what Odd Ducklings could become!New video every day this week. Let’s see where this takes us.🎥 Subscribe, like, comment — your feedback means everything.
Welcome to Odd Ducklings! This is the kickoff to a 7-day challenge where I’ll release one video every day — tackling topics around creativity, neurodiversity, ADHD, perfectionism, and the messy process of making things happen.This intro episode is about why I’m doing this challenge, what I hope to learn, and how I’m pushing past overthinking to just create.Whether you’re neurodivergent, a cautious creator, or just trying to get unstuck — I’d love for you to join, share your thoughts, and help shape what Odd Ducklings could become!New video every day this week. Let’s see where this takes us.🎥 Subscribe, like, comment — your feedback means everything.
In this episode, it's just you and me as we delve into the impactful topic of gender bias in medical diagnoses. I share my personal journey with PMDD (Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder) and discuss the broader implications of gender bias, including misdiagnoses and the historical neglect of female-specific conditions in medical research. This episode sets the stage for a series of upcoming interviews that will delve deeper into these critical issues.
Connect with me on:
Email: Daria.Mushinsky@gmail.com
If you want to support us please review and like the podcast and social media pages.
If you want to support us please review and like the podcast and social media pages.
The Impact of Language on Neurodivergent Narratives | Odd Ducklings Podcast
In this episode, we spotlight Rawi, an ADHD and product management coach, as he delves into the critical role language plays in shaping neurodivergent experiences. We discuss the importance of self-awareness and emotional regulation, the challenges of disclosing neurodivergence in the workplace, and how to use language to create a safer and more inclusive environment for everyone.
Don't miss this insightful conversation on how the right words can make all the difference in understanding and embracing neurodiversity. Stay odd!
Connect with Rawi Nanakul:
Rawi’s recommendations:
How to ADHD by Jessica McCabe
Atlas of the heart by Brené Brown
Connect with me on:
Email: Daria.Mushinsky@gmail.com
If you want to support us please review and like the podcast and social media pages.
In this episode -
00:00 Welcome to Odd Ducklings
00:23 Understanding Neurodivergent Careers
00:37 Two great points
05:12 Guest Introduction: Rawi
06:26 Defining Neurodivergence
10:13 The Importance of Language and Disclosure
24:05 Daily Startup Mantra and Creating Space for Others
25:11 The Power of Disclosure in the Workplace
26:27 Understanding and Managing ADHD in the Workplace
28:18 Optimizing Work Schedules Based on Personal Peaks
33:23 Navigating Feedback and Emotional Regulation
35:15 Tools and Strategies for Emotional Regulation
42:24 Final Thoughts and Recommendations
In this episode, we delve into the importance of being self-aware and how understanding neurodiversity with you and others can actually save a life.
Our guest today is Michael R. Kane!
Michael shares his journey as an author, special education teacher, and leader in the Boy Scouts of America. He discusses his personal battles with ADHD, autism, bipolar disorder, anxiety, and depression, and how he embraced his neurodivergencies through self-discovery, Finding a purpose, medication and creative writing.
This episode highlights the importance of recognizing and addressing mental health issues, and how Michael uses his experiences to assist his students. Tune in for an in-depth, inspiring conversation!
⚠️ TRIGGER ALERT - Talking about suicide: Could be avoided by skipping minutes 12-14
Connect with Michael R. Kane:
Connect with me on:
Email: Daria.Mushinsky@gmail.com
If you want to support us please review and like the podcast and social media pages.
In the episode:
0:00 Interview - Michael, on the process of self awareness
03:37 Meet Michael R. Kane
04:19 Navigating Neurodivergence in Education
06:49 Ice breakers
11:06 Struggles with Depression and Anxiety
12:14 <!> Trigger warning - suicide
13:23 End of <!> Trigger warning - thoughts of suicide
18:36 Self-Masking and Career Changes
21:06 Finding Routine and Self-Realization
21:45 Personal Struggles and Relationship Challenges
22:44 Opening Up About Mental Health
24:12 The Journey of Self-Acceptance
27:49 Creative Outlets and Coping Mechanisms
31:31 Balancing Mental Health and Daily Life
38:22 Discussing the Book and Its Themes
39:39 epistolary
I hope you enjoy this episode as we try to get better every time, if you have any feedback or if you think you want to participate in an episode, please send me an email!
That’s it for today, stay ODD and I’ll see you on the next episode!
Join us on The Odd Ducklings for an insightful conversation with Benjamin Stimson, a therapist, author, and medieval history researcher.
Benjamin opens up about his fascinating journey from North Wales to Canada, and his experiences with Dyspraxia, neurodivergence and learning how to learn.
He dives into topics like the impact of suddenly feeling like "the odd one out", boundary-setting, and the influence of cultural transitions.
His story is a testament to the power a good education system can have to build Neurodiverse individuals and how a lack of support could break them.
Discover how understanding finding and following your passions can lead to remarkable achievements and also how understanding how your brain works can get you there. Tune in for incredible stories on navigating life's challenges and embracing your unique self.
Connect with Benjamin Stimpson:
Connect with me on:
Email: Daria.Mushinsky@gmail.com
If you want to support us please review and like the podcast and social media pages.
Topics that came up
Join us on The Odd Ducklings for an impactful conversation with Bosky Mukherjee, founder of PM Dojo. Bosky shares her incredible journey of overcoming PTSD after her son’s critical health challenges and how she found resilience and joy in her professional life. Discover her insights on battling stress, the importance of asking for help, and building a fulfilling career in the tech industry. Bosky’s story is a testament to the power of grit, resilience, and the human spirit. Tune in for valuable lessons on personal growth and career success.
Trigger Warning; If you find it hard to hear about child hospitalization some of the content in this episode might be hard for you, but I can promise a positive ending!
Connect with Bosky Mukherjee:
Connect with me on:
Email: Daria.Mushinsky@gmail.com
If you want to support us please review and like the podcast and social media pages:
Cool content recommended by Bosky:
I hope you enjoy this episode as we try to get better every time, if you have any feedback or if you think you want to participate in an episode, please send me an email!That’s it for today,
stay ODD and I’ll see you on the next episode!
Have you ever felt like you just didn’t fit in?
How do you define yourself and does your identity empower you? or does it take you down? For Ruby Yuen this has been a great challenge in her life, From growing up as an immigrant in the USA and becoming a mother while having an international career that requires traveling.. With all of that, it’s no wonder that Ruby chose the path of helping others as a career coach.
In this episode me and Ruby explore the experiences she went through and the solutions and hacks that she accumulated along the way.
Connect with Ruby Yuen:
Connect with me on:
Email: Daria.Mushinsky@gmail.com
If you want to support us please review and like the podcast and social media pages.
Cool content recommended by Ruby:
Storyworthy : The book that Ruby literally had to her side - can’t get a better recommendation if you ask me..
Andrew Seaman - a podcast Ruby quoted and just a great source TBH
I hope you enjoy this episode as we try to get better every time, if you have any feedback or if you think you want to participate in an episode, please send me an email!
That’s it for today, stay ODD and I’ll see you on the next episode!
How do you actually maintain work-life balance?
In a post-pandemic world and #hustle_culture we all try to understand what this actually means to us. As individuals or as companies it’s an ongoing conversation that will probably follow us for years.In today’s episode we explore this subject with Migle Maciunaite, a Senior Creative Project Manager at REMERGE. Migle shares her journey, offering insights into her role and how she manages to maintain a healthy work-life balance and her unique perspective, tips and strategies that have helped her succeed in her career while navigating the challenges of mental health and maybe ADHD?
Connect with Migle:
Connect with me on:
If you want to support us please review and like the podcast and social media pages.
Cool content recommended by Migle:
I hope you enjoy the following episode, It's not perfect (but so are we..) and god do I look tired... But it's out, and as I always say, perfect is the enemy of done.. That’s it for today, stay ODD and I’ll see you on the next episode!
Welcome to the debut episode of "Odd Ducklings," the podcast where we dive into the extraordinary lives and careers of neurodivergent individuals. I'm Daria, your host, and in this introductory episode, we'll set the stage for the inspiring conversations to come.
In "Odd Ducklings," we aim to shine a light on the unique experiences, challenges, and triumphs of our guests, who have carved out impressive careers while navigating life with neurodivergence or otherwise. Each episode features in-depth interviews where our guests share their personal stories, offer practical solutions, and provide valuable tips that can benefit everyone, neurodivergent or not.
In this Episode:
Join us as we embark on this journey to celebrate diversity, break down barriers, and discover the incredible potential within all of us. Whether you're neurodivergent, know someone who is, or simply want to learn more about different perspectives, "Odd Ducklings" has something for you.
Subscribe now to ensure you never miss an episode. If you enjoy what you hear, please rate, review, and share our podcast with your friends and family.
Connect with Us:
Thank you for tuning in to "Odd Ducklings." We’re excited to share these stories with you and create a community where everyone feels seen, heard, and valued. Stay tuned for our next episode, where we’ll feature our first guest and dive into their inspiring journey.
Odd Ducklings - Working with our odd brains and achieving our career and life goals