When we design professional development, write job descriptions, run meetings, and build volunteer pathways, we are making constant assumptions about what normal communication looks like. Those assumptions are not neutral. They are neurotypical by default. And they systematically disadvantage people whose communication style is just as coherent, just as intelligent, and just as valuable. It simply does not match the unexamined standard.

We can both intend to be welcoming and uphold norms that perpetuate barriers. In this first installment, we're looking at volunteer engagement, specifically, the unspoken rules embedded in how organizations recruit, recognize, and advance their volunteers.

There's an article circulating again about how displeased employers are with GenZ. Each of the traits they name are traits of unsupported neurodivergence from a neurotypical point of view. Jump into my article for real talk about neuroinclusion in the workplace.

A beginners guide to neurodivergence and why it matters

Long before the room is set or food and beverage is chosen, inclusion is already taking shape through one of the most influential decisions you’ll make: who is invited to speak. Speakers signal who belongs in the room and which perspectives are valued. Speaker selection reflects priorities and perspective - and it directly shapes how inclusive, credible, and engaging an event feels to participants. Read on for tips to ensue your speaker selection process enables diverse repre

Inclusive food and beverage planning ensures that all attendees, regardless of dietary restrictions, sensory sensitivities, or accessibility needs, can fully engage mentally and physically in your event without barriers. Here’s a guide to help you make your event dining experience inclusive and enjoyable for everyone.

It’s a fact that accessibility and inclusion enrich learning programs. Neuroinclusive events create a welcoming space, and speaker diversity allows attendees to see themselves – who they are and aspire to be – prioritized in your event. Read on to clear common misconceptions and explore best practices for neuroinclusion.

Ready to enhance your venue selection strategy? Here are 8 key items to look for when selecting your in-person venue. Incorporate these priorities into your RFP wish list - and then see how the space measures up for yourself during your site visit.

I was recently invited to participate on a panel on AI in continuing education and training. One of the questions the moderator asked me was what priorities need to be part of a minimum viable AI strategy for professional associations. I offered three tips, but now that you're here, I'll give you five. At this point having an AI policy in place guiding ethical and judicious use, protecting time for your team to explore AI-enabled capabilities for learning (new tools and featu

What if I told you that 20% of the professionals attending your events are at a disadvantage—and not because of their ambition, experience, or skills? The reality is that 1 in 5 learners is neurodivergent, yet most professional development experiences aren't designed for them. Highly skilled professionals are encountering needless obstacles that make learning more difficult than necessary. If events are not designed with cognitive diversity in mind, we're unintentionally excl

GenZ is the most entrepreneurial and neurodivergent generation to date. Perpetuating norms isn’t their thing. They have different ideas...