About this episode
In this episode of the ADHD Women’s Wellbeing Podcast, Kate is joined by Dr Kati Peditto, Founding Researcher at the Built Experience Lab and a leading voice in neuroaffirming design - an approach that centres lived experience and views neurodivergence as an identity to be supported, not a problem to be solved.As an Autistic woman with ADHD, Kati brings both lived experience and research insight to a conversation many late-diagnosed women will recognise, the quiet, everyday ways our environments can either support our nervous systems or leave us feeling overwhelmed, exhausted and “too much”.Together, they explore the hidden impacts of our built environments and the origins of common design practices, as well as the design assumptions made and their contribution to stress, burnout, and self-doubt for neurodivergent women.This episode offers validation, language and practical ways to think differently about your environment and your needs.My new book, The ADHD Women's Wellbeing Toolkit, is now available. Grab your copy here!In this episode, we explore:What neuroaffirming design is and the assumptions built into most spacesThe difference between neuroinclusive and neuroaffirmingWhy standard accessibility checklists often miss neurodivergent needsCommon sensory challenges: fluorescent lighting, noise, acoustics, open-plan offices, and lack of windowsHow open-plan design and modern workplaces impact attention, energy and regulationWhy sensory rooms can become a tick-box rather than true inclusionThe importance of choice, control and agency based on your sensory profileWhat neuroaffirming workplaces and schools could look like in practiceThe role managers and leaders play in creating supportive environmentsUnderstanding cognitive accessibility and how to audit your spaceMoving beyond one-size-fits-all design to support individual needsKati is currently writing a book that explores how the hidden curriculum of our built environments impacts neurodivergent individuals and how spaces can be designed to foster true flourishing. Find out more information via her website www.katipeditto.comTimestamps:00:01 - Introduction to the ADHD Women's Wellbeing Podcast07:23 - Understanding Neuroaffirming Design19:01 - The Evolution of Workspaces23:59 - The Impact of Environment on Wellbeing37:38 - Cognitive Accessibility and DesignJoin the
