This episode of the Square Peg's Podcast features a conversation with Thomas G. West, an author and advocate known for exploring the strengths of individuals with dyslexia and the benefits of visual thinking. West discusses the importance of big-picture thinking over detail-oriented education, the problems with the current educational system's focus on narrow specialization, and the unique abilities that neurodiverse individuals bring to problem-solving and innovation. The dialogue also touches on the history of visual thinkers like Albert Einstein and the impact of artificial intelligence on the future of work and creativity. The hosts share personal experiences with dyslexia, emphasizing the need for educational reform that embraces neurodiversity and prepares students for a changing world.

Watch one of Thomas’s lectures here

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=grZQhqTZUZQ

Square Pegs Podcast is a series of intimate conversations about navigating life and learning within the neurodiverse community, hosted by Dr. Arash Zaghi, Professor at the University of Connecticut School of Engineering. In each episode, we talk to neurodiverse students and experts in the field of neurodiversity.

Send feedback about Square Pegs to hello@squarepegspodcast.com or find us at squarepegspodcast.com.

01:08 Introducing Thomas G. West

03:22 The Genesis of Interest in Dyslexia and Visual Thinking

09:12 Exploring Visual Thinking: Beyond Shapes and Forms

14:42 Cross-Disciplinary Research and the Future of Discovery

15:31 Challenges in the Current Education System

20:58 The Role of Hands-On Learning and Visual Education

23:54 Embracing AI and the Future of Education

30:05 Overcoming Procrastination and Embracing Efficiency

31:18 Exploring Creativity and Dyslexia's Unique Advantages

37:14 The Power of Observation and Nature in Scientific Discovery

44:15 The Importance of Cross-Disciplinary Work and Visual Thinking

44:33 Challenges and Solutions in Education for Dyslexic Learners

47:58 Rethinking Academic Practices and Embracing Diverse Talents

54:37 The Future of AI, Education, and the Value of Diverse Thinking

01:01:20 Closing Thoughts and Resources for Neurodiversity Advocacy

Discover the resilience that shines through adversity as Anthony, a graduate student, joins us. Anthony brings us on a journey marked by undiagnosed autism, schizoaffective disorder, and a battle with mental health that led to homelessness. His early love for science and technology, sparked by 'Star Trek' and nurtured in the solace of gaming and online communities, provided a beacon of hope in his darkest times.

Our heart-to-heart navigates the intricate corridors of academic pressure, substance abuse, and the quest for self-esteem amid the competitive halls of Harvard. Anthony's candid reflections on alcoholism, recognizing the intertwined nature of mental health and addiction, and the subsequent fall into mental illness lay bare the stark realities faced by many but spoken of by few. It's a tale of exceptional academic achievement shadowed by personal struggles, highlighting the need for greater awareness and inclusion in both educational and professional landscapes.

Rounding out our conversation, Anthony shares his path to recovery and growth, emphasizing the role of family support, treatment, and the grounding effect of meditation. While addressing the societal impacts of his experiences, he underscores the importance of participating in student activities and the wider college community. Anthony's narrative stands as a testament to his dedication to science and the unyielding human spirit.

Square Pegs is a series of intimate conversations about navigating life and learning within the neurodiverse community, hosted by Dr. Arash Zaghi, Professor at the University of Connecticut School of Engineering. In each episode, we talk to neurodiverse students and experts in the field of neurodiversity.

Send feedback about Square Pegs to ⁠hello@squarepegspodcast.com⁠ or find us at squarepegspodcast.com.

00:00 Navigating Adversity and Pursuing Science

14:35 Navigating Student Activities and Bullying

24:40 Alcoholism's Impact on Mental Health

34:58 Challenges of Harvard and Self-Esteem

41:30 Mental Illness and Homelessness Journey

55:40 Recovery and Growth

01:05:15 Overcoming Homelessness and Mental Health

01:09:52 Maximizing College Experience Through Student Involvement

Liz Spingola is a distinguished data scientist with a robust background in neurodiversity, digital accessibility, and inclusive education, currently working at IBM. Liz emphasizes the importance of instructor awareness and training around neurodiversity, the recognition of disability through an identity-first lens, the need for community feedback to create an inclusive environment, and the legal requirements for digital accessibility. Join Arash Zaghi, Lexi Hain, and Liz Spingola as they delve deeper into these insights on the next episode of the Square Pegs Podcast.

Square Pegs is a series of intimate conversations about navigating life and learning within the neurodiverse community, hosted by Dr. Arash Zaghi, Professor at the University of Connecticut School of Engineering. In each episode, we talk to neurodiverse students and experts in the field of neurodiversity.

Send feedback about Square Pegs to ⁠⁠hello@squarepegspodcast.com⁠⁠⁠ or find us at squarepegspodcast.com.

01:27 Liz Spingola's Expertise in Data Analytics and Accessibility

08:16 Obstacles and expenses in obtaining student accommodations

09:16 Prioritizing Digital Accessibility for Inclusive Education

19:13 The Dichotomy of Reading and Spelling

28:36 The Impact of Personal Interests in Education

36:49 Challenging Traditional Notions: Disabilities and Society

43:44 Embracing Disability as Empowering Identity

50:06 The Value of Neurodiversity

01:01:59 Inclusive Design for All Abilities

01:19:23 The Impact of Outdated Teaching Methods