In this episode, Mike and Chaya chat with Youssef Sleiman, a neurodivergent writer and gifted individual. Yousef details his personal journey with understanding 2e (Twice Exceptional), how he leverages his differently thinking brain to the cause of neurodiversity, the transformative power of storytelling on self-discovery, and deep dives the neuroscience behind Twice Exceptionality.

We Also Cover:

• The Folly of IQ Tests
• Misconceptions of Neurodivergent Intellect
• Tips for Identifying 2e
• The Reality of Giftedness vs Media Portrayals
• Brain Structures and Functions
• Trauma and Neurological Changes
• Developmental Psychology

Quotes:

• "Their neurodivergence is so far from the neurotypical that the things that they are processing and trying to work through -- types of existential questions or types of physiological questions."
• "There's no coincidence that most young adult literature works this way, where you have a protagonist who's starting off seemingly normal, but things are a little bit hard for them."
• "I do distinctly remember there being an ongoing tension where my teachers would know this about me, would have seen a score on file and been told, 'his mother doesn't want him in these the classes, so stretch him in any way you can.'"
• "In a in a typical brain, there's a certain amount of gray matter, how many however many ounces in the fMRI scans and in autopsies. There's a greater amount of gray matter in gifted brains."

About Youssef:

Youssef Sleiman, a 2e neurodivergent professional writer, combines creativity, AI tools, and SEO expertise to make important topics engaging. As a former copywriter for top brands, Youssef harnessed tools like Frase, ChatGPT, and Google’s AI to analyze search rankings and create high-performing articles and blog posts. His unique blend of left-brain and right-brain strengths ensures cutting-edge content. Drawing from his experience as a newspaper reporter, Youssef’s problem-solving skills enhance his work as a copywriter, resulting in informative and engaging campaigns.

Connect With Youssef:

• https://www.linkedin.com/in/ysleiman/
• https://www.facebook.com/youssef.writer/
• https://www.amazon.com/stores/Youssef-R.-Sleiman/author/B0D29XRS36
• https://www.brightinsight.support/
• https://intergifted.com/

Related Reading:

• Identity Development Theory: The Game!™
• Gifted Needs and Tabletop Roleplaying Games: The Hows and Whys from a Neurodivergent Dungeon Master

As always, thanks for lending us your ears and keep igniting that spark!

Stay Connected:

• Website: https://sparklaunchpodcast.com/
• ADHD Coaching & Workshops: https://www.sparklaunch.org/
• Chaya on Instagram