In this episode of Embracing Intensity, I’m thrilled to welcome Sheldon Gay, host of the I Must Be Buggin’ podcast. Sheldon brings his insightful perspective on navigating life as a late-identified gifted and neurodivergent individual. His podcast and work are dedicated to amplifying underrepresented voices and empowering others to embrace their unique identities.

We explore the challenges and beauty of being true to oneself in a world that often misunderstands intensity, neurodivergence, and giftedness. Sheldon’s passion for self-discovery, emotional depth, and compassionate communication shines through in this powerful conversation.

About Sheldon:

Sheldon Gay is the host of the I Must Be Buggin’ podcast, where he delves into topics of identity, giftedness, and neurodivergence through the lens of being Black, underrepresented, and gifted. His mission is to create a space for self-awareness, acceptance, and growth, while helping others see and embrace their unique strengths.

Sheldon’s background as a late-identified gifted and neurodivergent individual has fueled his passion for helping others on their journey of self-discovery. He brings a thoughtful, empathetic approach to conversations on identity, culture, and the power of authenticity.

In This Episode:

• Navigating Identity as a Late-Identified Neurodivergent Individual – Sheldon shares his journey of discovering his giftedness and neurodivergence later in life.

• Ask vs. Guess Culture – A deep dive into communication styles, cultural nuances, and how self-awareness can help bridge differences.

• The Power of Self-Discovery – Reflections on how shadow work and embracing authenticity can lead to freedom from shame and guilt.

• Intensity and Emotional Depth – Exploring how Sheldon’s intellectual curiosity and emotional intensity shape his interactions and relationships.

• Cultural Expectations and Exceptionalism – Discussing the pressures faced by marginalized communities and how giftedness intersects with cultural identity.

• Truth with Compassion – The importance of sharing truth in ways that create connection and understanding rather than division.

Resources & Links:

• Sheldon’s Website: Sheldon Gay is Buggin

• • Listen to the I Must Be Buggin’ podcast

  • Learn more about Sheldon’s speaking engagements

  • Explore his neuroaffirming and anti-racist merchandise

• Join the Embracing Intensity Community

• Connect with Aurora: Embracing Intensity

Sheldon’s thoughtful reflections and passion for empowering others provide invaluable insights for anyone navigating their own journey of self-discovery and authenticity. Tune in for an engaging and inspiring conversation!

Listen now and share your thoughts with us! 🎧✨

In this episode of Embracing Intensity, we’re excited to share the Q&A portion of our powerful conversation with Nneka Denise, founder of the Write to Heal Project. This discussion offers timely tools and insights as we reflect on letting go of the past year and preparing for a fresh, intentional start in the new year.

Nneka shares her transformative approach to healing through writing, addressing grief not only as it relates to loss but also to life transitions, personal growth, and emotional clarity. Whether you’re navigating stress, seeking emotional release, or exploring creative outlets, this episode provides practical strategies to help you move forward.

Nneka Denise is the founder of the Write to Heal Project and a trained end-of-life and bereavement doula based in the Portland-Vancouver area. Through journaling, visualization, and somatic practices, Nneka helps individuals process grief, trauma, and life’s emotional challenges. She also runs the New Wellness Center in downtown Portland, a collective of holistic healing practitioners offering vibrational sound baths, Reiki, massage, and emotional wellness support.

• The Science of Writing to Heal – How writing can help process emotions, grief, and transitions in life.
• Practical Writing Strategies – Tips for using gratitude journaling, brain dumps, and affirmations to create a daily healing practice.
• Ceremonial Release – The power of burning or shredding written emotions as a symbolic act of letting go.
• Affirmations for Healing – How to create affirmations that feel believable and achievable, guiding you toward positive change.
• Navigating Writing Challenges – Nneka’s advice for those with ADHD, dyslexia, or writing apprehensions, including voice dictation and alternative methods.

• Connect with Nneka on Instagram: @nneka_denise

• Contact Nneka via email: nneka.denise@gmail.com

• Learn about the New Wellness Center in Downtown Portland (10th & Morrison)

• Explore the Embracing Intensity Community and Memberships.

• Preorder Aurora’s workbook, Energy Balance (Kindle edition), available this Friday, December 20th.

Nneka’s work offers invaluable tools for self-reflection, healing, and emotional growth through the simple yet profound act of writing. Whether you’re a lifelong journaler or just beginning your healing journey, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you process emotions and step into the new year with intention.

Listen now and take the first step toward embracing your own healing process! 🎧✨

In this highly engaging episode of the Embracing Intensity podcast, host Aurora Remember Holtzman dives deep into the world of Nonviolent Communication (NVC) with Bob Yamtich, a seasoned practitioner with over 20 years of experience. Bob shares how NVC has shaped his approach to relationships, parenting, and self-understanding, particularly as a neurodivergent individual. This conversation is packed with practical insights and tools for those seeking to enhance their self-connection and interpersonal communication.

About Bob Yamtich:

Bob Yamtich is a dedicated Nonviolent Communication trainer, therapist, and engineer. His journey into NVC began after his career as an environmental engineer, driven by his desire to contribute to societal change through better communication. Bob’s unique approach integrates empathy with analytical insights, honoring the importance of neurodivergence in his work and personal growth. He is a passionate advocate for using NVC as a bridge between self-awareness and impactful communication.

In This Episode:

• Bob’s personal journey with Nonviolent Communication and how it helped him find balance as a bipolar individual.

• The core principles of NVC: self-connection, empathy, and honesty.

• How to distinguish between needs and strategies, and why it matters in communication.

• The concept of holding multiple needs and strategies simultaneously for resilience and creativity.

• Balancing analytical insights with empathy in understanding neurodivergence.

• Practical exercises, including identifying three current needs and corresponding strategies.

• How NVC fosters community, shared power, and collaborative problem-solving.

• Bob’s experiences teaching NVC to diverse audiences, including children and incarcerated individuals.

• The shift from “battle mode” to “build mode” in creating meaningful connections.

Links and Resources:

• Learn more about Nonviolent Communication and its principles here.

• Learn more about Bob on his website!

• Explore Aurora’s Neurodivergent Toolbox and other resources at the Embracing Intensity Shop.

• Get 25% off Aurora's digital products and memberships with code BIRTHDAY24 (valid until Dec 2).

Whether you're new to Nonviolent Communication or a seasoned practitioner, this episode offers valuable insights and actionable strategies for enriching your connections with yourself and others. Tune in for a thought-provoking and uplifting discussion!