Episode
Episode 16: Designing for the Spectrum with Kelly Colón [Part 1]
- Podcast
- Create A Place
- Published
- May 28, 2025
- Duration seconds
- 3343
- Processing state
not_requested- Canonical source
- https://createaplace.podbean.com/e/episode-16/
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Summary
Leaders everywhere are being asked to support people in more human-centered ways—but what if the systems we’ve built weren’t designed for how most brains actually work? In this raw and revelatory two-part episode, Kristina sits down with Kelly Colón—professor, coach, strategist, and lifelong advocate for the neurodivergent community. They unpack the lived experience behind the buzzwords and explore what it truly means to design for neurodivergent humans in a neurotypical world. Along the way, they reveal why most well-intentioned “inclusive” efforts still fall short—and what it takes to do better. Recorded live during Mental Health Awareness Month at AIS headquarters in Boston , their conversation blends personal story with professional insight—unpacking late diagnosis, systemic bias, and the invisible barriers that keep even high-performing people from thriving. They also had an opportunity see first-hand how AIS has successfully integrated over 100 neurodivergent individuals into their factory through their Radiance program. From parenting and identity to policy, process, and place—this episode challenges leaders to listen differently, design more intentionally, and recognize that thriving isn’t about doing more. It’s about being understood. 🎧 Whether you’re a leader, a designer, or a parent trying to navigate it all—this one’s for you. Like, comment, share and stay tuned for part TWO coming soon! More about Kelly :: It all started with one neurodivergent human’s frustration over a world that wasn’t built for minds like hers. Tired of seeing too many policies, programs, and workplaces overlook neurodivergent individuals, Kelly decided to leap off the executive ladder and launch Eledex Consulting, a neurodivergent coaching & consulting business. Her mission was si…