In this episode of Conversations for Change, we sit down with Patti Barnard — an executive, parent, and lifelong advocate navigating ADHD, sensory processing disorder, and raising her autistic son, Luke. Patti brings a powerful blend of professional leadership experience and deeply personal insight into what it means to raise a neurodivergent child while also discovering your own neurodivergence in adulthood.

We explore the emotional weight of masking, the unique challenges women face in receiving an ADHD diagnosis, the hidden load parents carry, and why empathy and awareness in the workplace matter more than ever. Patti also shares what has helped her family thrive, how to advocate for your child in school settings, and why embracing differences can make us all stronger.

This conversation is honest, grounding, and full of moments parents and professionals will connect with.

Connect with Patti: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pattibarnard/

Special thanks to our podcast editor, Will Calkins.
Connect with Will: https://www.linkedin.com/in/william-calkins/

Music for this episode was created by Brandon Cericola.
Contact Brandon: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brandon-cericola/

Episode 4: Parenting, Masking, and Navigating Neurodiversity with Executive Leader Patti Barnard

In this episode of Conversations for Change, we sit down with Fred Bullock, co-founder of Irregular Training, to explore how workplaces can better support every kind of mind. Fred shares his journey of discovering ADHD in adulthood, how it reshaped his view of work and identity, and why organizations benefit when they rethink the one-size-fits-all model.

We also dig into the roots of workplace pressure, the habits that hold people back, the power of strengths-based environments, and how leaders can rebuild their teams in a way that helps both neurodivergent and neurotypical folks thrive.

This conversation is honest, energizing, and full of ideas that can spark real change in schools, workplaces, and communities.

Connect with Fred: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fred-bullock-74ba609b/
Learn more about Irregular Training: https://www.linkedin.com/company/irregulartraining/

Special thanks to our podcast editor, Will Calkins.
Connect with Will: https://www.linkedin.com/in/william-calkins/

Music for this episode was created by Brandon Cericola.
Contact Brandon: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brandon-cericola/

Episode 3: Creating Workplaces Where Every Brain Thrives with Fred Bullock of Irregular Training

⚠️ Content Warning: This episode contains mentions of suicide. If you or someone you know is considering suicide, please contact 988 in the U.S. for free and confidential support, available 24/7.

In this powerful episode of Conversations for Change, we’re joined by Alex Cheney: consultant, singer, mental health advocate, and future doctorate-holder. Alex opens up about his personal journey through anxiety, depression, and discovering his potential neurodivergence. Together, we dive into topics like the stigma around men’s mental health, the challenges of finding the right therapist, and the importance of chosen family and community support.

Alex also shares how his upcoming autism assessment is shaping his evolving self-understanding, and how he’s turning lived experience into advocacy, especially in the workplace. This episode is packed with relatable moments, heartfelt vulnerability, and a shared message: the world needs more people like you, exactly as you are.

Whether you're on your own mental health journey, supporting someone else, or simply curious to learn, this conversation will leave you thinking, and hopefully, feeling a little more connected.

Connect with Alex:
🌐 alittlebitalex.com
📧 alex@alittlebitalex.com
🔗 LinkedIn: Alex Cheney (look for the rainbow flag and unicorn 🏳️‍🌈🦄)

Episode 2: Alex Cheney

In our very first episode, hosts Victoria and Shaun share who they are, why they started the Conversations for Change Podcast, and what drives their passion for mental health advocacy. They talk about their future vision for the Nurturing Tomorrow Foundation, what listeners can expect from upcoming episodes, and how together we can build a brighter, healthier future for kids and families.

Tune in and join us on this journey to nurture tomorrow, one conversation at a time.

Episode 1: An Introduction

Welcome to Nurturing Tomorrow: Conversations for Change, the official podcast of the Nurturing Tomorrow Foundation. Hosted by Shaun Poland and Victoria Little, this show dives deep into the real challenges and powerful stories shaping the future of mental health for children, families, and communities.

Each episode features candid conversations with advocates, educators, caregivers, and changemakers working to build a more compassionate and accessible world. Whether you're a parent, professional, or just passionate about making a difference, this podcast offers inspiration, insight, and practical steps to help drive change—one conversation at a time.

New episodes coming soon. Follow and join us on this journey of hope and action.

Conversations for Change: An Announcement

Welcome to Nurturing Tomorrow: Conversations for Change, the official podcast of the Nurturing Tomorrow Foundation. Hosted by Shaun Poland and Victoria Little, this show dives deep into the real challenges and powerful stories shaping the future of mental health for children, families, and communities.

Each episode features candid conversations with advocates, educators, caregivers, and changemakers working to build a more compassionate and accessible world. Whether you're a parent, professional, or just passionate about making a difference, this podcast offers inspiration, insight, and practical steps to help drive change, one conversation at a time.

New episodes coming soon. Follow and join us on this journey of hope and action.

Disclaimer: The views and opinions shared on Conversations for Change are those of the hosts and guests and are intended for informational and advocacy purposes only. While we are passionate about mental health, we are not licensed mental health professionals. Any advice or suggestions discussed on this podcast should not be considered medical or therapeutic advice. Always consult with a qualified professional before making decisions related to your mental health.

Shaun Poland

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