726. The Gift of Neurodiversity: How to Harness Your Superpowers
Almost 30
Deep Dive
Why did Michelle Miller return to Boston College to teach?
Michelle returned to Boston College to be a supportive and empowering presence for students, especially women, after experiencing significant personal challenges and trauma. She wanted to combat harmful practices in the theater department and provide a nurturing environment that she needed as an undergrad.
What is the role of the vagus nerve in managing stress and overwhelm?
The vagus nerve is the longest nerve in the body, running from the brain to the pelvis and branching into major organs. It stores and responds to fight, flight, freeze, and fawn reactions. Techniques like gently placing your fingers at the base of your skull and directing your eyes can help reset and tone the vagus nerve, reducing stress and overwhelm.
How does Michelle Miller address neurodiversity in her teaching?
Michelle works with students to understand and accommodate their unique learning styles and neurodivergence. She uses techniques like vagal nerve activation and allows students to move their bodies or use different tools to help them focus and engage. She emphasizes self-forgiveness and the importance of being present and compassionate in the learning process.
Why does Michelle believe in the importance of personal boundaries and self-compassion after trauma?
Michelle understands that personal boundaries and self-compassion are crucial for healing and growth after trauma. She emphasizes that while compassion for others is important, one must also prioritize self-love and self-care. Ignoring one's own needs can lead to further pain and suffering, and setting boundaries helps rebuild a sense of self and purpose.
What are some of the challenges Michelle faces due to her neurodiversity?
Michelle experiences sensory processing challenges, such as sensitivity to loud noises, bright lights, and tactile sensations. She also deals with time blindness and has periods of intense focus followed by disorganization. These challenges require her to find tools and accommodations that work for her, like structured routines and fidget spinners, without feeling shame.
How does Michelle Miller view the role of technology and social media in neurodiversity?
Michelle sees technology and social media as tools that can be both helpful and harmful. While they can provide valuable information and escape, overuse can be detrimental. She emphasizes the importance of being present and avoiding constant distractions. For neurodiverse individuals, technology can be a useful aid, but it should not replace human interaction and creativity.
What does Michelle Miller mean by 'transmuting pain into purpose'?
Transmuting pain into purpose means taking difficult experiences and transforming them into meaningful and fulfilling work. Michelle has used her personal traumas, including a physically and emotionally abusive marriage, to become a compassionate and effective teacher and mentor. She helps others navigate their own challenges and find their voice.
Why is neurodiversity considered a superpower, and what are some of its benefits?
Neurodiversity is considered a superpower because it brings unique perspectives, creativity, and sensitivity. Benefits include being able to see and integrate disparate ideas, deep empathy, and a heightened ability to connect with others. These qualities are invaluable in education, the arts, and any field that requires innovation and understanding.
How did Michelle's experience with being stalked and her divorce shape her current outlook?
Michelle's experience with being stalked and her divorce taught her the importance of self-compassion and setting boundaries. She realized that removing toxic people from her life is a gift, not a loss. Her worst days now are better than her best days during the marriage, and she focuses on cultivating her inner landscape and pursuing activities that invigorate her.
What advice does Michelle have for parents regarding their children's physical and emotional boundaries?
Michelle advises parents to let their children be the judge of who gets to hug them and not to shame them out of making those decisions. She emphasizes the importance of advocating for children and respecting their choices, which helps them develop a sense of autonomy and safety.
- Gratitude for listeners
- Importance of community in healing
- Eight years of podcasting
Shownotes Transcript