In this conversation, we - Sharon Leigh and Alex Kahl, explore various themes surrounding parenting, education, and societal challenges.

We discuss the importance of gratitude, the complexities of the education system, and the impact of technology on learning.

The conversation also delves into the PISA study's implications for education in Germany today and 25 years ago, the role of politics in shaping educational policies, and the need for resilience in modern society especially for neurodivergent people.

They emphasize the significance of encouraging individuality in children and the importance of community engagement in addressing issues like food deserts. The discussion highlights the challenges of modern parenting and the influence of social media on children's development.

Chapters

00:00 Reflections on Time and Gratitude

01:40 Navigating the Education System

03:54 Exploring Children's Aspirations

06:33 Innovative Projects and Future Generations

09:11 The State of Education in Germany

14:59 Immediacy and Long-term Thinking

19:08 Patience and Self-Regulation

23:48 Resilience and Rebounding from Disappointment

24:41 Innovative Solutions: 3D Printing and Social Startups

27:59 Understanding Food Deserts and Access to Fresh Produce

34:20 The Long Game: Societal Change and Political Dynamics

36:38 The Ripple Effect of Individual Actions

39:23 Education Systems: Challenges and Opportunities

47:22 Navigating Educational Systems

49:14 Social Media and Its Impact on Youth

52:05 The Experiment of Social Media Policies

56:40 Parenting in the Digital Age

01:01:21 Self-Regulation and Emotional Growth

01:03:43 Reflections on Current Events and Generational Challenges

Welcome to Season 2025 of Free Range Thinking! 🎉 In this episode, Sharon and Alex explore the complexities of living and thriving as neurodivergent individuals.

You can subscruibe here on our website:http://free-range-thinking.com

aaaand

to our YouTube Channel if you would like to see us as well :-D

https://www.youtube.com/@freerangethinkingpodcast

Topics include:The frustrations of switching digital tools and the joy of split keyboards 🎹How difficult it can be to get an ADHD diagnosis in Germany 😓The “demasking” phase after diagnosis and its impact on relationships 💡Evolving agreements, unmet expectations, and fostering better communication 🗣️How workplaces can adapt to support neurodivergent employees 🙌We also tease some exciting news about our upcoming newsletter! 🚀🌟 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and join the conversation in the comments below!🔗 Mentioned tools: Instapaper, Pocket, GoodLinksChapters Galore!00:00 - Intro to 2025 Season01:15 - Celebrating Neurodivergence and Podcast Anniversary03:18 - Weekly Life Updates: Parties, Dentists, and Work Travel04:47 - Alex on Digital Tool Chaos and Switching Apps07:01 - The Frustrations of Read-Later Solutions10:13 - Teasing the Upcoming Newsletter10:49 - Trying Ergo Split Keyboards: A New Experiment like MoErgo Glove80 and Dygma Defy14:24 - The Challenge of ADHD Diagnosis in Germany22:35 - Demasking Phase Post-Diagnosis and Relationship Dynamics24:45 - Navigating Changed Agreements and Expectations28:12 - Creating Inclusive Workplaces for Neurodivergent Individuals38:02 - Reflecting on Workplace Ambiance and Solutions51:40 - Workplace Dynamics: Responsibility and Leadership Lessons59:49 - Closing: Welcome to 2025!

Greetings Friends! In this episode we explore the intersection of neurodivergence, airport thriller literature :), and the human experience.

We start with Dan Brown's 'The Secret of Secrets', the evolution of language surrounding neurodivergence, and the importance of storytelling in society.

And we wouldnt be FRT if we would not go down one or the other rabbit hole :) So we delve into themes of consciousness, creativity, and the role of art in addressing complex topics such as death and personal growth.

Through our discussion we highlight the significance of individual interpretation, the power of creative expression in shaping perspectives and how we add stuff to the things we read, watch and listen to.

And we look into GABA - the aminoacid that makes us calm AND lets our life rush in front of our lifes in near death experiences

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Neurodivergence and Literature

01:46 Exploring Dan Brown's 'The Secret of Secrets'

04:52 The Evolution of Language in Neurodivergence

07:55 Consciousness and Connectivity in Modern Society

10:46 Hope and Transformation in Literature

14:04 The Role of Artists in Society

17:01 Creating Spaces for Creativity

19:53 The Power of Open-Mindedness

22:01 The Skeptic's Perspective in Literature

24:58 Concluding Thoughts on Dialogue and Understanding

27:17 The Power of Storytelling

30:42 The Role of the Reader in Interpretation

33:22 Children's Understanding of Death

37:52 Fear of Death and Its Implications

43:12 The Science of GABA and Stress

50:41 Exploring Altered States of Consciousness