Unmasking, Late Diagnosis, & The Struggle to Be Creative | Podcast Episode #2
In this episode of Work Is Rigged, Veronica and Kaci explore their individual journeys sparked by late diagnosis, and the ways that unmasking impacted them at work.
We also discuss why creative outlets are essential for nervous system regulation and how understanding your neurodivergence in adulthood can completely shift your relationship with your own identity and the workplace.
As the founder of Imperfectly Empowered, Kaci helps neurodivergent women navigate career pivots and unmasking.
Our show host, Veronica Yao—career coach for neurodivergent professionals and founder of Atypical Careers— leads the conversation and shares her own experiences as a marketing professional.
Learn more about Kaci at beimperfectlyempowered.com
Our featured guest is Kaci Muecke, a former speech-language pathologist (SLP) and tech industry professional who turned her experience navigating burnout into a new mission. As the founder of Imperfectly Empowered, Kaci helps neurodivergent women navigate career pivots and unmasking.
SPOILERS! Here are some highlights from this episode:
Unmasking: We compare the process of “unmasking” to an identity reframe that requires unlearning habits, facing social judgment, and managing skill regression. Kaci shares that unmasking took years of work, but ultimately allowed her to live as her most authentic self and parent her neurodivergent child with greater empathy.
Late Diagnosis: Veronica and Kaci explore their experiences getting an ADHD diagnosis in adulthood. Kaci explains how her doctor initially doubted her due to her academic and career success, writing in her medical chart that she was "compensating well" despite her severe internal struggles. They examine how a late diagnosis provides grace and context for past struggles, while also bringing unique adult challenges like managing careers and families alongside identity shifts.
The Struggle to Be Creative: We discuss the pressure neurodivergent creatives face to monetize their hobbies as side hustles due to economic demands. Kaci describes how painting serves as a regulating tool and creative outlet that quietens her thoughts, while both she and Veronica reflect on how societal standards often strip the restorative joy from hobbies by forcing people to market and sell their creative passions.
