Jan 10, 2025
Sam speaks with Shakira Alleyne, an autistic and ADHD musician and filmmaker, about their creative journey and the challenges neurodivergent musicians face. They discuss the inspiration behind Shakira’s film Neurodiversity in Music and the barriers uncovered during its making. The conversation digs into what makes creative spaces truly inclusive, how mental health and neurodivergence intersect, and why self-awareness is vital for artistic growth. An inspiring discussion for creatives, advocates, and anyone interested in fostering inclusion.
00:00 coming up in this episode
00:38 intro to season two and this episode
04:08 how did the film 'neurodiversity in music' come about?
09:45 challenges becoming a neurodivergent musician
11:29 shakira allenyne - 'jump, i insist'
13:02 shakira on their journey as a musician
23:20 shakira allenyne - 'unhealthy substitute'
24:50 the process of making and experimenting
28:19 initiatives that cater to the needs of individuals
31:49 ideas for creating inclusive environments
34:14 shakira allenyne - 'breathing
37:33 work struggles being neurodivergent
41:35 how diagnosis / self-awareness helped shakira
44:20 asking for help and knowing what help is available
48:37 intersection of mental health and neurodivergence
34:14 shakira allenyne - 'lost and delirious'
52:58 shakira's current relationship with music
55:57 sam's episode outro
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