Classroom 5.0

What happens when two former clinical psychologists and late diagnosed neurodivergent women sit down to discuss burnout, masking, and sustainable leadership? This honest conversation explores the real challenges neurodivergent entrepreneurs and professionals face, and the radical self-trust required to build work that doesn't break you.In this milestone 50th episode, I sit down with Dr Hayley D. Quinn, a proud Autistic ADHD (AuDHD) woman, former Clinical Psychologist, anti-burnout business coach, podcast host (Welcome to Self), and author of the soon-to-be-released book From Self-Neglect to Self-Compassion.Topics covered: ✓ Burnout, what it is and how to distinguish it from exhaustion ✓ The chameleon effect: masking and its long-term costs ✓ Why "working harder" doesn't solve burnout (and what does) ✓ Dehumanisation in helping professions ✓ Threat, drive & soothing systems (Compassion-Focused Therapy) ✓ AI, uncertainty & neurodivergent leadership ✓ Self-trust as business strategyAnd a big announcement - this episode also marks the last for Classroom 5.0, at least for now. Thank you for being a part of this community, and shaping the evolution of these conversations into a fresh new podcast in 2026, Jagged Brilliance: AI, Neurodivergence and the Future of Leadership. Subscribe here for launch details, coming soon! 📖 Full episode show notes with links to connect with Hayley and pre-order her book, available at: https://www.marianepower.com.au/blog/50

Just 11 days before her life-altering stroke, Gillian Coutts and I had shared the stage at The Thriving Workplace event in Sydney. I was captivated by her charisma, profound insights into applied positive psychology, and unwavering dedication to help others unlock their full potential back then, and remain as inspired by her positive force in the world today. Over the past two years, Gillian has embarked on an extraordinary journey of rehabilitation, with her family and good friend and professional colleague, Jenny Steadman right by her side. Each day, she is learning to integrate her former identity with the realities of her new one, which as a result of her stroke, is shaped by acquired physical limitations and cognitive differences. In this episode of the NeuroPEAK series, I had the privilege of sitting down with Gillian and Jenny, who has recently shifted into the role of National Director of The Potential Project, a role she'd previously shared with Gillian. Together, they candidly explored what it has been like to navigate these profound changes, offering insights into the transformative power of vulnerability in leadership, the importance of self-awareness, and the invaluable role of love and connection in navigating life's toughest challenges. To read further, follow the transcript and gain links to today's resources, visit the episode webpage - https://www.marianepower.com.au/blog/48 If you liked this episode, please share it with a friend, or take a minute to rate and review on your favouritie podcasting platform! Conversation Highlights: How The Potential Project is shaping a more human world of work. The story of Jenny and Gillian's enduring friendship and its role as a source of strength in challenging times. How Gillian's stroke has reshaped her perspective on love, relationships, and leadership. The power of "wise optimism": accepting reality while moving forward with hope and intentional action. Why navigating change requires emotional agility and self-awareness. The role of compassion in modern leadership and workplace culture. How AI can complement, rather than replace, human qualities. The importance of inclusive workplaces in fostering connection and well-being. Why celebrating small achievements builds resilience. Gillian and Jenny's reflections on what makes life truly meaningful Connect with Mariane: IG : ‪@marianepower‬ LinkedIn @marianepower www.marianepower.com.au

In Episode 46 of Classroom 5.0, I'm joined by Jade Warne, founder of the Small Business Growth Club, who shares her journey as an entrepreneur shaped by her Samoan roots and a creative family. We dive into the unique strengths neurodiversity brings to business, the importance of flexibility, a service-driven mindset, and the impact of AI tools like ChatGPT for small business productivity. Highlights include Jade's reflections on neurodiversity in entrepreneurship, tackling burnout, and creating balanced work environments that support diverse needs and life stages. For links to resources discussed on today's episode, see the podcast show notes here - www.marianepower.com.au/blog/46 Loved the episode? Please take a moment to leave it a 5 star review, and help us reach more good humans with stories of inclusive impact! Key highlights : 03:03 - Jade's upbringing and early career: Jade reflects on her family's influence, particularly her mother's ingenuity and resourcefulness, and her experience working with high-achievers in university and the magazine industry. 09:45 - Neurodiversity and entrepreneurship: Discussing the high representation of neurodivergent people in entrepreneurship, Jade and Mariane explore the unique qualities that neurodiversity brings to the table. 13:26 - Barriers and vulnerabilities in small business: The conversation turns to challenges like burnout and the importance of setting a balanced digital "diet" for mental health. 16:00 - Values and impact in small business: Jade shares her philosophy of a service-driven business model focused on deeply understanding and supporting customers. 23:10 - AI's role for entrepreneurs: Jade explains how she uses ChatGPT and other AI tools to streamline business processes, increase productivity, and overcome the overwhelm of running a small business - tips that are particularly useful for our ADHD community! 30:33 - The need for (and benefits of) workplace flexibility: Advocating for more flexible workplaces, Jade discusses the importance of accommodating different life stages and responsibilities. 38:33 - Quick fire round: Jade reflects on concepts like an impact mindset, inclusive impact, and living a meaningful life, highlighting figures who inspire her, including Glennon Doyle and Cherie Clonan. "The workplaces we've had don't fit the human lifecycle. They suit one type of person in one phase of their life—someone unencumbered with responsibilities. People deserve physical health and mental health. Money is important, but only in the mix of seeing other people, serving them, and being able to survive and thrive"​ Connect with Mariane: IG : ‪@marianepower‬ LinkedIn @marianepower www.marianepower.com.au

Series 5 of Classroom 5.0, NeuroPEAK, is unpacking the stories of the unique strengths and struggles of navigating Neurodiversity in leadership. My guest today is Mike Knapp, an ex-Google innovator and founder of Shoes of Prey who takes us through his journey of discovering his neurodivergent identity after facing burnout. After years of pushing through periods of ill-health in high-demand environments, Mike discovered that the source of his exhaustion wasn't the work—but how the work was structured for his neurodivergent brain. This realisation was a turning point, and in our conversation, Mike reveals how understanding his ADHD and Autism unlocked a deeper potential. It's allowed him to not only reshape his career but also rethink how creativity and innovation can truly flourish when supported by environments that understand neurodiversity. What if we all embraced our unique wiring instead of trying to fit into rigid moulds? How would your life change if you had a work structure that truly supported how your brain works? As Mike shares, it's time we started seeing neurodivergence as a strength, not a challenge to overcome. The world needs more workplaces that foster the kind of creativity only neurodivergent minds can deliver. Are you ready to unlock your own leading-edge potential? If you're curious about how neurodiversity can fuel innovation in fast-paced industries, this episode is a must-listen! You'll learn how to: Embrace your uniqueness Build flexible work and life environments Harness the power of neurodivergence for innovation What's one way you could shape your environment today to work better for your brain? Loved this episode? Please share it with a friend, and leave a review to help it reach others! For resources, click here for the podcast episode page Connect with Mariane: • Get Mariane's new free ADHD Motivation guidebook, Master Your Mind and Find Your Mojo, to finally take action on those big goals you're chasing. • Watch the episodes on YouTube • Follow Mariane on Instagram • Follow Mariane on LinkedIn • Explore how Mariane can support your Neurodiversity Journey here

Camille Davey, the founder of Grow Together Now and a lived experience mental health speaker joins Mariane Power to discuss mental health in the workplace. We explore how leaders can transform their workplaces into safe, inclusive environments, where every voice is valued, and share practical, science backed tips to help you hold hard, but necessary conversations that support mental health, and foster inclusive workplaces. In this episode, you'll learn : The critical role of psychological safety in creating an inclusive work culture. Why "courageous curiosity" is essential for leaders navigating mental health conversations. Practical steps for embedding psychological safety into your workplace, starting with self-audits and co-designing solutions. The importance of embracing discomfort as a sign of genuine care and growth. The role of lived experience, and the importance of consulting neurominority groups and those with lived experience when designing policies and practices that meet psychosocial safety legislation requirements. Whether you're an HR professional, a leader, or simply passionate about mental health, this episode offers invaluable insights to help you foster a supportive, thriving workplace. To access show notes and resources mentioned, visit the episode page here Ready to understand and harness neurodiversity? At Posify, we equip individuals and organisations with neuroaffirming knowledge and science-backed strategies to foster a more inclusive, healthy, and productive work-life design. Visit www.theposifygroup.com.au to learn more!

In Episode 40 of Classroom 5.0, we delve into the impact of human-centered leadership and purpose-driven business with Seth Pathiyil, Head of Hunter Energy Hubs at AGL Energy Ltd. With over three decades of experience across five industries and four countries, Seth shares how his values-aligned approach is transforming AGL's clean energy initiatives and fostering inclusive impact. Seth's upbringing in Kerala, India, profoundly influenced his leadership style, instilling values of integrity, respect, and well-being. These principles guide his efforts at AGL, where he leads the creation of low-carbon industrial energy hubs powered by renewable energy and chairs the Diversity and Inclusion committee. Key Takeaways: How Seth's childhood in Kerala shaped his leadership philosophy. Insights into AGL's clean energy transition projects. The importance of collaboration and conscious business practices for sustainable development. Essential future leadership skills like analytical thinking, creativity, problem-solving, and lifelong learning. The impact of Gen Z on the workforce and the integration of different generations. Seth's inspiring journey offers valuable insights into leadership, clean energy, and the future of work, and helps us to see how prioritizing people and purpose can drive remarkable business performance and ensure we create a sustainable future. For links to today's shownotes, including resources shared, visit www.marianepower.com.au/blog/40 And to learn more about how you can unleash the potential in your people by leveraging the neurodiversity that exists within your workplace, learn more about The NeuroIMPACT Network here If you loved this episode, please help us to create more just like it by sharing, rating and reviewing on tyour favourite podcast platform.

Em Gulliver, founder of smart tag solution 'Meggi', takes us behind the scenes of what it's really like to navigate the triple minority threat of being young, female and neurodivergent in today's tech industry. From her early days at IBM to thriving as a sought after software developer and founder, Em has learned first hand how to play to her unique strengths for success. In this conversation, we explore: The initiatives and programs working to increase diversity and representation of more women in tech Why flexibility and support for working mothers is crucial in creating an inclusive and supportive work environment The benefits Technology and STEM careers can offer in providing flexibility for individuals with caregiving responsibilities How understanding and accommodating the needs of neurodivergent individuals can support your efforts in creating an inclusive workplace For links to today's resources and shownotes, visit the episode page here To learn more about Messy Magic, an ADHD coaching program for women, see here To learn more about how The Posify Group are creating a future-fit workforce, see here Liked this episode? Here's how to rate and review on Apple Podcasts! Your ratings and reviews help us support more people, just like you, to imagine and create inclusive impact that benefits our future. Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select "Write a Review." Then be sure to share what you loved most about this and other episodes! Thanks for tuning into another episode, and for your interest in Inclusive Impact.

In this unique, unfiltered episode of Classroom 5.0, podcast host Mariane Power and Will Wheeler, Neurodiversity Consultant at Untapped and co-founder of the Neurodiversity Academy, dive into the challenges and advantages of living and leading with ADHD. This episode deviates from our usual podcast format with no edits or post-production—just real, raw dialogue between two neurodivergent minds, offering you a sneak peek into the unpolished conversations and glorious thought-bubble deviations that reflect the true dynamics of neurodivergent thinking. Through sharing lived experience stories and real world case studies from their diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives, Mariane and Will offer a deep dive into the realities of advocating for, creating and sustaining inclusive environments for learning, work and leadership. LINKS FOR THE SHOW: For a full list of resources and links to today's shownotes, see the episode webpage here Connect with Will via LinkedIn here Join Messy Magic, an online program supporting women with ADHD here To discover how The Posify Group can support your school or workplace in achieving its diversity and inclusion learning and development goals, visit www.theposifygroup.com.au Liked this episode? Remember to Rate, Review and Follow on Apple Podcasts here This helps us support more people, just like you, to imagine and create inclusive impact that benefits our future! Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select "Write a Review." Then be sure to share what you loved most about this and other episodes!

'I think I might be ADHD. What do you suggest I do first?' This is by far the most common question I'm asked. And with increased awareness and story sharing by those, like me, receiving a late diagnosis, I'm not surprised. In fact - I'm thrilled! This is a topic close to my heart. In sharing both my clinical insights and lived experience, I hope this solo episode helps to bust some myths and misconceptions circulating about ADHD, and offer you science-backed insights to inform your conversations and self-discovery journeys. Key Timestamps: 01:23 Recap of previous episode, and listener feedback and questions - where to start and who to see if you think you have ADHD 04:05 Myth busting around the claims of over-diagnosis of ADHD in adults - what the Australian numbers really tell us. 09:14 ADHD defined, and what research reveals about the real world costs of undiagnosed and unsupported ADHD 13:01 Understanding the different types of ADHD 26:00 The role of ADHD coaching in supporting desired behaviour change 37:28 Supporting individuals with ADHD in the workplace LINKS FOR THE SHOW: See the episode webpage with links to resources discussed in this conversation here Connect with Mariane via LinkedIn here, and via her website here Join Messy Magic, an online program supporting women with ADHD here To discover how The Posify Group can support your school or workplace in achieving its diversity and inclusion learning and development goals, visit www.theposifygroup.com.au Liked this episode? Remember to Rate, Review and Follow on Apple Podcasts here This helps us support more people, just like you, to imagine and create inclusive impact that benefits our future! Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select "Write a Review." Then be sure to share what you loved most about this and other episodes! And if you haven't already done so, be sure to visit my homepage here and sign up to my weekly newsletter, where I share bonus updates, behind the scenes action and hand-picked recommended readings for every episode here on Classroom 5.0.

Today's shopping malls work hard to grab our attention. But in their attempts to 'delight' our senses with all their bells and whistles, new findings uncovered in research conducted by today's guest, Natalie Phillips-Mason, reveals today's retail giants might be missing the mark. It's by no mistake this conversation is timed to reach your ears for Neurodiversity Celebration Week. And if you think inclusive language, customer experience and workplace design is only for the 20% of people who represent our neurodivergent community, think again! As Natalie's research reveals, what works well in supporting and delighting those of us with lived experiences of ADHD, Autism, OCD, Dsylexia, Tourettes and other minority neurotypes, happens to also be of preference to neurotypical folk, too. Grab your pen and paper, and get ready to learn. I ask the tough questions you've been wanting the answers to around inclusive communication and action, and Natalie shares a wealth of personal stories alongside her professional insights and cutting edge findings. Plus, a list a mile long that celebrates some of our neurodiversity change champions and supports your future learning! Key Moments: 00:59 A background to Neurodiversity Celebration Week 07:03 Understanding Neurodiversity and exploring inclusive language 14:08 Symbolism in Neurodiversity - do we get it right, and why curiosity matters 15:33 Shifts in culture and inclusivity in the Corporate sector 22:00 Natalie shares her research findings on Neurodiversity in the Retail Sector 28:04 Creating equity in shopping experiences, why it matters and who for 31:46 Uplifting sensory joy in our community 33:09 The Hidden Disability Sunflower program and its impact 34:36 The importance and value of designing in-store shopping experiences 46:40 Inclusive Impact: a future that embraces partnership and co-design LINKS FOR THE SHOW: For a full list of resources and links to today's shownotes, see the episode webpage here Connect with Natalie via LinkedIn here, and via her website here Join Messy Magic, an online program supporting women with ADHD here To discover how The Posify Group can support your school or workplace in achieving its diversity and inclusion learning and development goals, visit www.theposifygroup.com.au Liked this episode? Remember to Rate, Review and Follow on Apple Podcasts here This helps us support more people, just like you, to imagine and create inclusive impact that benefits our future! Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select "Write a Review." Then be sure to share what you loved most about this and other episodes! And if you haven't already done so, be sure to visit my homepage here and sign up to my weekly newsletter, where I share bonus updates, behind the scenes action and hand-picked recommended readings for every episode here on Classroom 5.0.

In today's rapidly evolving world, our agility and capacity to change contributes to a multitide of success outcomes, including our ability to deliver impact. Enter Sharon Connolly, a change management expert loved by leaders around the globe for her innovative approach to communications and change training that looks as beautiful as it is effective. Whether you're an entrepreneur, teacher, head of communications and marketing or a change consultant yourself, keep a pen and paper handy. You'll want to note down all the practical communication, creativity, tech and mindset strategies that increase learner engagement, motivate change in others, and help you feel confident as you create and deliver impact! Episode Highlights: 2:24 Sharon's Unexpected Journey to Change Leadership 6:30 Tech's Evolution and Its Effect on Communication 11:51 Authenticity in Leadership and Communication 13:52 Defining Your Unique Value and Purpose 18:58 Prioritization for Enhanced Productivity and Performance 21:40 Exploring the Role of a Change Manager 23:01 The Importance of Support Through Change 24:37 Strategies for Engaging Communication and Learning 33:40 Amplifying Visibility for Women and Menopause Awareness 36:24 Leveraging Influence for Impact 37:54 Personal Development and Living a Meaningful Life LINKS FOR THE SHOW: For a full list of resources and links to today's shownotes, see the episode webpage here Connect with Sharon via LinkedIn here, and via her website here Join Messy Magic, an online program helping ADHD women to lead with more confidence, creativity and clarity here To discover how The Posify Group can support your school or workplace in achieving its diversity and inclusion learning and development goals, visit www.theposifygroup.com.au Liked this episode? Remember to Rate, Review and Follow on Apple Podcasts here This helps us support more people, just like you, to imagine and create inclusive impact that benefits our future! Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select "Write a Review." Then be sure to share what you loved most about this and other episodes! And if you haven't already done so, be sure to visit my homepage here and sign up to my weekly newsletter, where I share bonus updates, behind the scenes action and hand-picked recommended readings for every episode here on Classroom 5.0.

Welcome back! I'm your host, Mariane Power, and I'm excited to be bringing you Season 4 of the podcast, featuring conversations with people from diverse minds, bodies, cultures and backgrounds, in a series that explores what it takes to create 'Inclusive Impact'. Each of our guests brings unique lived experience insights and science backed strategies that will help us all to imagine and create an inclusive future of learning, work and leadership. To offer context, this episode includes a bonus 15 minute excerpt from a keynote that introduces the Impact Mindset Theory and Framework which resulted from research conducted by The Posify Group, and that inspired this series. Then, you'll meet our first guest, Grace Koelma, Education Specialist, Certified Breathwork & Meditation Teacher and Founder of Future ADHD, who was diagnosed with ADHD at 33. Grace shares her own transformative journey, from her late diagnosis of ADHD to becoming an entrepreneur who's created a globally recognised ADHD friendly digitial planner. Women with ADHD will find a kindred spirit in Grace, as she shares both the joys and struggles that colour her lived experience of learning, working, leading and parenting as a neurodivergent woman. Need an inspiring and inclusive digital planner to capture your big ideas and manage your schedule? Buy the FutureADHD Digital Planner here In this episode, we dive into: 02:21: The Impact Mindset, and the 6 pillars of individual and cultural characteristics reported by organisations leading the way in delivering IMPACT 11:09: The importance of transformational opportunities at work, and the emergence of Transcendent Leadership 15:14: Grace's journey into entrepreneurship 33:21: A considered conversation around the need for educational reform to better support diverse minds 45:07: Self-criticism, shame cycles and the instances in ADHD 52:18: The future of learning, and how it relates to our neurodivergent communities 56:22: The importance of self-compassion LINKS FOR THE SHOW: For a full list of resources and links to today's shownotes, see the episode webpage here Shop the FutureADHD digital planner here Join Messy Magic, an online program supporting women with ADHD here To discover how The Posify Group can support your school or workplace in achieving its diversity and inclusion learning and development goals, visit www.theposifygroup.com.au Liked this episode? Remember to Rate, Review and Follow on Apple Podcasts here This helps us support more people, just like you, to imagine and create inclusive impact that benefits our future! Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select "Write a Review." Then be sure to share what you loved most about this and other episodes! And if you haven't already done so, be sure to visit my homepage here and sign up to my weekly newsletter, where I share bonus updates, behind the scenes action and hand-picked recommended readings for every episode here on Classroom 5.0.

Want to learn how Who Gives A Crap is revolutionizing the future of work? Our latest episode of Classroom 5.0 features Catalina Lopera, Wellbeing & Workplace Director of Who Gives a Crap Who Gives A Crap is not your average toilet paper company. They're making waves in the industry by prioritizing purpose-driven leadership and culture over pure profit focus, and it's working. In the war on talent and consumer loyalty, Who Gives A Crap is 'flush' with success. In this episode, we explore the new way of working, where leadership that prioritizes wellbeing, development, purpose, and inclusive culture wins. In this episode, you'll learn: How purpose-driven leadership and culture are attracting top talent and creating consumer loyalty The importance of self-care and well-being at work, and why that's an appealing employee value proposition, especially for the younger generation The role of identity and individuality in creating a thriving work environment Tips for designing organizational solutions that keep your 'future self' in mind The importance of self responsibility when it comes to exploring and taking action on your mental health and neurodiversity needs And more! Don't miss out on this insightful conversation. If you too want to learn more about how you can ready yourself for the future of work, get in touch to see how our psychology coaching and career consulting can help!