Episode 269: Neurodivergent-Friendly Spaces Aren’t Built by Accident [featuring Trina Haynes]

What happens when hundreds of neurodivergent people come together in a space intentionally designed with their needs in mind?

Patrick Casale sits down with ADHD advocate, content creator, and community builder Trina Haynes to talk about Neurodiversion, a large-scale event built around neurodivergent connection, creativity, and joy. They explore what it takes to create more accessible events, the power of collective unmasking, and what they’ve learned from hosting conferences and retreats for neurodivergent communities.

3 Key Takeaways:

1. Neurodivergent-friendly spaces require intentional design. Sensory environments, quiet spaces, communication preferences, breaks, and flexibility can dramatically change someone’s experience.
2. Accessibility is an ongoing process. Listening to feedback, including people with different neurotypes, and being willing to change what isn’t working are essential.
3. There’s something powerful about being around people who understand you. Spaces where neurodivergent people can unmask, connect, and experience shared joy can provide something that many rarely experience in everyday life.

More about Trina:

Trina Haynes is an ADHD advocate, content creator, and community builder behind the platform My Lady ADHD, where she shares real-life stories, tools, and humor to help adults feel seen and supported. She currently works as Growth & Partnerships Manager at Shimmer ADHD Coaching and leads experiential events including NeuroDiversion, a large-scale in-person conference focused on connection, creativity, and neurodivergent joy.

• Neurodiversion Website: https://www.neurodiversion.org
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/myladyadhd
• Newsletter: https://www.ladyadhd.net

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