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Beyond the Linear Path: Leading with Your Full Self

April 21, 2026 | #HearfromHer #Leadership 

- PMLiVE

Listen to the full episode here.

In the latest episode of the Hear From Her podcast, Giulia Ghibellini (Teva Pharmaceuticals) and Professor Amanda Kirby (Do-IT Solutions) share how their experiences as mothers of neurodivergent children didn’t just alter their career paths—they supercharged them.

Beyond the Label: Understanding Neurodiversity

Neurodivergence is often mistakenly equated solely with autism. As Prof. Kirby explains, it is a vast spectrum including ADHD, dyslexia, dyspraxia, and more. With 84 billion brain cells connected in billions of ways, we are all part of a neurodiverse population. Recognizing these “spiky profiles”—where individuals have intense strengths alongside specific challenges—is the key to unlocking the next generation of talent. Listen to the full episode here.

Key Takeaways for Future Leaders:

The Guilt-to-Solution Pivot: Many women face a period of “grieving” following a family diagnosis, but this often leads to a fierce, solution-focused mindset that translates perfectly into leadership and advocacy.

The Myth of ‘Growing Out of It’: Neurodivergence isn’t something people grow out of; it’s something they learn to navigate. Leaders must create environments that provide the right tools for these individuals to reach their maximum potential.

Authenticity Over Camouflaging: Women are often experts at “camouflaging”—hiding their struggles to fit a formal leadership mold. Real impact happens when we stop hiding our failings and start sharing the lessons learned from them.

Join the Conversation:

“Don’t look 30 years ahead; look at the next three.” Whether you are navigating a new diagnosis or a career pivot, remember that your “squiggly” journey is your superpower.

Listen to the full episode here.

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