18 The Future of Leadership is Neuroinclusive (with Nicola Knobel)

Episode 18: Unmasking Leadership with Nicola Knobel

What if the problem was never neurodivergent people — but the workplaces and leadership models we’ve been trying to force ourselves into?

In this episode of ADHD Late to Know, I’m joined by author, TEDx speaker, and people-first leader Nicola Knobel for a powerful conversation about neurodivergent leadership, psychological safety, masking, and the future of inclusive workplaces.

As two AuDHD women in leadership, we explore the reality of navigating professional spaces that often reward neurotypical communication styles — and what needs to change for neurodivergent people to genuinely belong and thrive.

We discuss:

• ADHD, autism & masking in leadership

• Why traditional leadership models often fail neurodivergent people

• Psychological safety and authentic leadership

• The hidden toll of burnout, productivity pressure & late diagnosis

• Why inclusion must go beyond awareness posters and gestures

• Strength-based leadership and neuroinclusive workplaces

• The future of work through a more human, people-centred lens

This is an honest, validating and thought-provoking conversation for anyone navigating adult ADHD, autism, leadership, or professional belonging.

If you’ve ever felt like you had to mask who you are to succeed at work — this episode will make you feel seen.

Resources:

Connect & follow Nicola Knobel:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicolaknobel/

Website: https://nicolaknobel.com/

Unmasking Leadership by Nicola Knobel:

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Unmasking-Leadership-Neurodivergent-Psychological-Workplaces/dp/0473767562