The Intersection of Neurodivergence & Vulnerability w/Traci Neal

Shades of Strong® | Supporting Black Women in Redefining Strength, Rewriting Narratives & Celebrating Authenticity

My strong is vulnerability and acceptance

Hey, sis! Shirl and Natty here! Today, we’re joined by Traci Neal for an impactful conversation about navigating life on the spectrum.

Traci shares her experience of being diagnosed with ADHD and Autism at the age of thirty-four and how she’s leaning into vulnerability to support her in embracing the labels, highlighting the journey of self-acceptance and growth that will certainly resonate with Black women on a similar journey.

As Black women, we know that societal norms often pressure us to suppress our emotions and mold ourselves to fit certain molds. However, Traci’s story reminds us that true strength lies in embracing our authentic selves, diagnoses and all, a message that resonates deeply with Black women who often face pressure to conform to societal norms.

Episode Highlights:

• Discovering Diagnoses: Traci shares her journey of navigating a recent diagnosis of ADHD and Autism at the age of 34, revealing the freedom and new perspectives that came with understanding herself better.
• Changing Views on Femininity and Vulnerability:How the diagnoses reshaped her perception of femininity and vulnerability, leading to a deeper understanding and acceptance of herself.
• Unmasking and Embracing the Labels: Traci shares how she embraces her diagnoses, finding empowerment and a sense of identity in the labels that she once feared.
• Blossoming Confidence: We discuss how her confidence has blossomed since receiving her diagnoses, highlighting the positive impact of self-discovery and self-acceptance.
• Life Before and After: Traci offers insights into her life before the diagnoses and the profound shifts she has noticed since, revealing a journey of self-discovery and personal growth.

Join us as we celebrate Traci’s journey and reflect on the power of self-discovery and acceptance. This episode is a testament to the power of self-acceptance and growth, highlighting the importance of embracing our true selves.

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Traci Neal is a neurodivergent spoken word artist listed on Poets & Writers residing in Columbia, SC. She is featured in The New York Times, Mahogany (Hallmark) writing community, The Elevation Review, 1619 Speaks Anthology in 2023 (Sims Library of Poetry), and many other media publications. In 2023, she was a Pushcart Prize Nominee for The Elevation Review, longlisted for the African Diaspora Award with Kinsman Quarterly, the second-place poetry winner of the National Career Development Association, and the second-place poetry winner of the South Carolina Career Development Association. Neal uses her poetry platform to help bring awareness to non-profits in need worldwide.

Connect with Traci Neal:

• Website: www.tracinealspeakerpoet.com

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