What if success isn’t about fitting in, but about creating something that fits you? In this episode, I talk with astrophysicist Dr. Jessica Schonhut Stasik about what it takes to succeed when your brain doesn’t match the systems around you. Jessica shares her experience of being late-diagnosed with autism and ADHD, the burnout and rejection that nearly ended her path in science, and the moment someone recognized her potential when she couldn’t see it herself. We also talk about what it looks like to design your work around how you think, not how you’re expected to think, and why many high achievers feel like they are constantly managing different versions of themselves. Tune in to understand your brain more deeply, and start building a path that actually works for you.

Check out our sponsors:

Shopify - Sign up for a $1 per month trial, just go to shopify.com/anxiousachiever

Notion - Notion is an AI powered, connected workspace for teams. Try custom agents now at notion.com/achiever

In this Episode, You Will Learn

00:00 Why you don’t have to fit into a box to succeed.

05:30 Why neurodivergent people often feel pulled between multiple identities.

12:30 How Jessica combined science, communication, and service into one role.

16:30 The stress of feeling forced to choose between different paths.

21:00 Why being seen by the right people changes everything.

24:45 How a diagnosis can change how you see yourself.

28:30 What masking looks like and how it affects your energy.

33:00 The hidden cost of constantly trying to “fit in”.

40:00 Why are support systems essential?

45:30 Advice for building a life that works with your brain.

50:00 How to advocate for your needs more effectively.

55:00 Why a holistic approach to mental health matters.

Resources + Links

Learn more about the Frist Center for Autism and Innovation HERE!

Learn more about The Neuroverse Initiative HERE!

Learn more about Jessica Schonhut Stasik HERE!

Get a copy of my book - The Anxious Achiever

Watch the podcast on YouTube

Find more resources on our website morraam.com

Follow

Follow me: on LinkedIn @morraaronsmele + Instagram @morraam

Follow Jessica on LinkedIn @jessica-schonhut-stasik