Shows
Personal Development Trailblazers PodcastYour Struggles Are Your Strengths: Embrace Your Story With Scott Sery & Shane Fichter
Welcome to the Personal Development Trailblazers Podcast! In today’s episode, we'll dive into the stories that shape us and the strength we find within them.
Scott Sery is a ghostwriter and copywriter. He works with people to really draw out their unique story, tell it in an amazing way, and encourage others to learn about each other and get to know each other.
Connect with Scott & Shane here:
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61570495177332
www.havocmindset.com
2025-02-0420 min
Left of Normal with Scott SeryPositivity Matters with Kadin McElwain - 142Today's episode has a guest joining us.
Kadin was diagnosed as autistic when he was 2 years old. Throughout his life he was told his "disability" was going to set him back and he would never amount to much. Time and again, he was able to prove everyone wrong.
Today he shares insights on how he has found success, the challenges he sees, and tells us all about how the power of positivity is the only way we can all succeed as humans.
You can find Kadin and read his writing in these places:
2024-03-2116 minLeft of Normal with Scott SerySolitude on the Spectrum - 141Many Left of Normal individuals prefer to be alone the majority of the time. There are some obvious reasons, and some others that we'll explore in this episode.
While we wrap things up with the benefits of intentional solitude, the opposite is true too. If isolation and being alone comes easy, then shake things up with intentional socialization.
Parents of autistic children, discover how to make room time an opportunity instead of a punishment.
2024-03-1418 minLeft of Normal with Scott SeryUnderstanding the Rage Fest - Left of Normal Episode 140Autistic meltdowns, as portrayed by Hollywood, involve what look like toddler temper-tantrums.
But that's not always how reactions to being overstimulated occur. Some meltdowns are quiet, some are passive, and some come across as a lot of anger.
The difference is that the rage from a tantrum is targeted and manipulative; the rage from a meltdown is (to an extent) uncontrollable and the brain reverting to a more base nature as it resets.
Get in on the rage fest with this episode about meltdowns and anger. PS I'm trying something different, by moving th...
2024-03-0819 minLeft of Normal with Scott SeryLeft of Normal Episode 138 - Planning to Make Plans and Planning to OrganizeSome Left of Normals are great planners. Some are terrible planners. I love planning. I love planning to make plans. My plans include planning other plans and organizing and systematizing.
One of the areas where I love plans and organization is in travel. I'll even create mock travel plans for vacations I know I will never take.
Today's episode looks at the link between #autism and making these plans, as well as the hyperfixation that comes with them.
2024-02-2229 minLeft of Normal with Scott SeryLeft of Normal Episode 137 - Functionally Frustrated with Executive DysfunctionAmong the neurospicy folks, there are many that struggle with executive functioning skills.
These skills are the decision making processes, the ability to stay on task, remember what needs 'membered, and the ability to be self-driven.
When the skills are lacking, it's called executive dysfunction. This episode looks into what that dysfunction looks like among the #autism community and how to (sort of) overcome it.
2024-02-0928 minLeft of Normal with Scott SeryLeft of Normal Episode 136 - Burnout of the Gifted KidOften those who are Left of Normal are labeled as "gifted." In my case it was the result of just doing the work as told - I was told to get the work done, so I put my head down and got the work done. As a result, I learned a bunch of stuff.
After school, and into adulthood, however, things got less clear. They weren't as easy as "put your head down and get the work done." Struggles ensue, and many of those who kicked ass in their youth, now are burnt out and struggle with anxi...
2024-02-0119 minLeft of Normal with Scott SeryLeft of Normal Episode 135 - Struggles the LoN Business Owner EncountersRunning a business can be difficult. But it's considerably easier than working for someone else.
Finding a job as a Left of Normal is excruciating. Landing a job is even harder. Creating your own job has a whole different set of hurdles, but some that can be overcome with the right resources in place.
Today's episode talks about what it takes to run a business as a Left of Normal, and what those hurdles are that we face - and how anyone can help their business owner, professional, and entrepreneur friends with very little effort and...
2024-01-2525 minLeft of Normal with Scott SeryLeft of Normal Episode 134 - Well Intentioned Phrases that are StupidToday's 'cast dives into three phrases that many of us hear quite often. The intention behind them is to help inspire, or to encourage one to do better, but the words given are really not that good.
Many of these are nonsensical to not just those on the Autism Spectrum, or with some other neurospicy divergency, but also to those who are normies. I believe the difference is that the normies somehow know the true meaning behind them - still unclear on that part though.
Leave a comment. Are there any other quips and phrases tha...
2024-01-1915 minLeft of Normal with Scott SeryLeft of Normal Episode 133 - How I am Transitioning to a CyborgI recently had knee surgery. I don't see it so much as going through surgery, but upgrading from factory defaults.
Today's episode goes through the badassery that led to this current surgery. How the injury started, how it progressed, and where I am today.
Through it all I have maintained my awesomeness - likely even increased awesomeness considerably.
2024-01-1121 minLeft of Normal with Scott SeryLeft of Normal Episode 132 - Your Resolutions are Terrible and Set you up to FailResolutions are whack.
This episode looks at why those resolutions are whack, what you can do to make better resolutions, goals, commitments, etc. etc. and all of that New Year New Me stuff.
We'll also spend some time on New Year's parties. Why those on the Autism spectrum don't care for them, and what some of us Left of Normal's like to do this time of year.
2023-12-2919 minLeft of Normal with Scott SeryLeft of Normal Episode 131 - Compassion on the Spectrum and Amongst SiblingsCompassion has to be learned. Those on the Autism spectrum, however, have a little harder time learning it. While normies can often just pick things up, it's a conscious effort for those that are Left of Normal.
Does that struggle give the LoN a pass to not have to show as much compassion? If they fail to learn it, do they deserve less compassion coming to them?
How about siblings, should parents favor the Left of Normal child over the normie children? Should siblings be required to show compassion to each other regardless of where they...
2023-12-1422 minLeft of Normal with Scott SeryLeft of Normal Episode 130 - Childhood ASD Traits that go UnnoticedLet's take a look back and identify some of the spectrum traits that went unnoticed. From lining items up, to uncomfortable clothing, to making and keeping friends, today's episode picks out some things from my childhood that I now see as early identifiers of being Left of Normal.
Recognizing these traits early on can help create a better living environment for your child that may be on the Autism spectrum.
Modern psychology is better at identifying younger kids who happen to have ASD, but it starts with awareness in the home. Notice the traits and su...
2023-12-0832 minLeft of Normal with Scott SeryLeft of Normal Episode 129 - Writing about Speaking and Speaking about WritingOften, those who are Left of Normal prefer to communicate in writing. There are a number of reasons, not the least of which it's easier to know when it's your turn to "talk."
For me, it spills out into other areas of my life in addition to merely communication. I turned my ability to write clearly into a career.
In this episode I give a shout out to my friend Shane Fichter. Shane used journaling to help hone his mindset. He used this to help bring him from a life of addiction, to a life of i...
2023-12-0122 minLeft of Normal with Scott SeryLeft of Normal Episode 128 - Turkey Day ShenanigansIt's Thanksgiving-ish time! This 'cast was posted the day after Turkey Day, so it's a little untimely.
But the concepts are still there, the stories still applicable, and the ideas can flow from Thanksgiving into Christmas.
These times can be stressful on a lot of people, whether they are on the Autism spectrum or not. For those who do live with ASD, they can be especially stressful as routines are changed, mushy food is served, and expectations vary.
For those who are Left of Normal, or those who have a Left of Normal fa...
2023-11-2316 minLeft of Normal with Scott SeryLeft of Normal Episode 127 - Neuro Linguistic Programming with Suzie DeBarToday we have a guest on the 'cast. I met Suzie DeBar a number of years ago through a networking group I was part of. She was starting a new business around the same time I started mine, and we were able to support each others' growth.
A few years ago I had the opportunity to write her family story in a magazine that I was helping with run by Aubrey Kincaid - whom I call "obnoxious" in this episode.
Today, Suzie has shifted her focus to NLP coaching. Where she helps people break down the...
2023-11-1630 minLeft of Normal with Scott SeryLeft of Normal Episode 126 - How to Practice Self-CompassionThere's a myth out there that autistic people don't feel empathy. That's not quite true, it's really that most Left of Normal folks don't know how to express empathy.
Then, there's the idea of sympathy. Where often sympathy is shown, when empathy is needed.
Wrap those up together with an action plan, and you get compassion.
Now, how does self-compassion play into this empathy, sympathy, compassion conundrum? Today's 'cast dives into how it all should look and how those on the spectrum can get stuck in a self-pity loop when they need to bus...
2023-11-0916 minLeft of Normal with Scott SeryLeft of Normal Episode 125 - Sports Talk with Mitch BohnI have never been hugely into sports - not organized stuff anyway. But today's guest is all about them. Possibly the sportsiest nut I know. Mitch Bohn, however, has a unique perspective due to his situation.
Today's episode gets into Mitch's positive view on life, how he ended up in the broadcast/podcast world, where he hopes to go in life, and why he's into sports. We talk about his interactions with those on the spectrum and some of the insights he has learned over the years.
In the episode we talk a...
2023-11-0225 minLeft of Normal with Scott SeryLeft of Normal Episode 124 - Understanding AuDHDThis podcast is all about Autism Spectrum Disorder. But there are many traits that are similar to ADHD - despite these two being seemingly at odd with each other.
Recently the idea of AuDHD started to pop up more and more. While ADHD and Autism comorbidity aren't new concepts, they're being understood more and more. And from what I've found out, ADHD doesn't necessarily manifest as hyper and out of control.
Let's take a look at how these two play together, and how they show up in real life.
2023-10-2717 minLeft of Normal with Scott SeryLeft of Normal Episode 123 - Family Communication StylesIn our family we have two Left of Normal and one normie. Sometimes the dynamics can get a little weird.
Over the years it has been a learning curve to understand different communication styles. But as we all grow together we learn what we are trying to say and how to say it.
Jessica and Holden come on as guests in this family episode of Left of Normal.
2023-10-2019 minLeft of Normal with Scott SeryLeft of Normal Episdoe 122 - Fixating on HyperfixationsWe all have some of those little things that we love to get lost in. For those with autism, however, our reasons can be a little different.
Hyperfixations are short-term dives into topics, activities, or something that can completely distract us from real life. Fixating on them allows the body and mind to reset and calm down.
Today's episode looks at what they are, how the present themselves, the end result and goal, and how you can encourage those around you who have ASD to use their fixations in a healthy manner.
2023-10-0519 minLeft of Normal with Scott SeryLeft of Normal Episode 121 - Should you Ask Someone if They’re Autistic?Many people wonder if it's okay to ask someone if they're autistic. So, I decided to tackle this question and take a look at motives, reasons, and methods of asking.
Today, I'll share some of the tips how you can approach the subject, and some of the reasons why you might not want to go there. I'll lay it all out there on how I would feel if you asked if I was autistic today, 10 years ago, or 20 years ago.
I'll let you in on a secret: there's nothing wrong with wondering if someone is Le...
2023-09-1416 minLeft of Normal with Scott SeryLeft of Normal Episode 120 - Dealing with Social Expectations for AutisticsSocial expectations are (largely) unwritten rules created by a society to help keep everything flowing properly and helping everyone get along.
The problem is they assume a specific skill set - a set that the majority of people have.
Most people don't need training for it, they just intuitively know how to navigate following these expectations or norms.
For some, such as those on the autism spectrum, with ADHD, or another neurodivergent way of thinking, those expectations need to be learned. But nobody teaches them, we just have to figure them out on o...
2023-09-0824 minLeft of Normal with Scott SeryLeft of Normal Episode 119 - Why Autistcs Suck at Most Jobs Part 2 of 2Episode 118 talked about why the jobs suck. This episode we get into why entrepreneurship is often a better idea for those who are on the spectrum.
I'll go through the five considerations of what happens at a traditional job, and how being self-employed circumvents those sucky situations.
There are, however, some parts of being entrepreneur that are difficult, and some of those difficulties are compounded by being Left of Normal. We'll talk about that, and another episode in the future will get into how autism plays a deleterious role.
2023-08-3129 minLeft of Normal with Scott SeryLeft of Normal Episode 118 - Why Autistics Suck at Most Jobs Part 1 of 2This was going to be an episode on how those with autism manage the world of being an entrepreneur, running a business, and lead teams or groups... but setting the stage took a bit longer than expected, so entrepreneurship will come next week.
In this episode we take a gander at a variety of jobs that I had, and why they all sucked. Why I bombed interviews if I could even get an interview, and why I allowed myself to be walked all over when I was in my 20's.
Because jobs are rarely spectrum f...
2023-08-2529 minLeft of Normal with Scott SeryLeft of Normal Episode 117 - What Causes Autism?There are a ton of myths out there around autism (not dissimilar to most, well, everything in the world). The myths are about what causes the condition, how do you "cure" it, and more.
Why do they persist? Why do people continue to perpetuate them? And better yet, what's the truth?
This episode we talk about vaccines and autism, how to discover if you (or a child) are on the spectrum, as well as diagnoses and more.
2023-08-1817 minLeft of Normal with Scott SeryLeft of Normal Episode 116 - A Child’sTake on Nature and AdventureNature is a fantastic way to help neurodivergent minds navigate the world. For me, it's because nature is safe, predictable, and exciting.
Studies show that being immersed in nature is great for everyone - it's the Japanese concept of Shinrin Yoku - but especially for those with ASD and ADHD.
Today, we're talking about an upcoming adventure: climbing Granite Peak - Montana's highest point. Holden will be going along and hopefully he will conquer the mountain at just 10 years old.
By the time most listen to this we will have summited, or died tr...
2023-08-1012 minLeft of Normal with Scott SeryLeft of Normal Episode 115 - Parenting as a Left of NormalA lot of people love to bemoan how hard parenting is. Yes, it can be difficult at times.
If you're on the Autism Spectrum, and you're a parent, do you feel there are certain challenges to overcome?
As a Left of Normal parent, I found some aspects were quite easy - especially the parts where I just played with a baby all day long. Other aspects are quite difficult - such as where processes and rules are completely ignored.
Today we look at some parenting woes, wins, and what to dos.
2023-07-2114 minLeft of Normal with Scott SeryLeft of Normal Episode 114 - You’re So AnnoyingThose on the spectrum can be really annoying sometimes.
And we often know that we're annoying. The problem arises with the fact that we can't really control it - many of those annoying traits and quirks for those on the autism spectrum are largely outside of their control.
So what do you do when a Left of Normal is annoying you? Let's talk about that.
2023-07-0911 minLeft of Normal with Scott SeryLeft of Normal Episode 113 - Boundaries on the SpectrumA listener chimed in recently and asked about boundaries, especially with children on the spectrum. I pondered it a bit, and realized that for a long time my own boundaries were rubbish.
The problem was that trying to please too many people meant not caring for myself.
Of course, now that I have set those boundaries, I tend to come off as rude, standoffish, and arrogant.
Today we'll look at how Left of Normal folks set boundaries, how we see boundaries in the normies, and some ideas on how to encourage Left of N...
2023-06-3018 minLeft of Normal with Scott SeryLeft of Normal Episode 112 - Why You are a Great Leader with Dave NordelToday we have a guest on the podcast who really knows his stuff when it comes to leadership.
Dave Nordel spent 30 years in the Air Force. During that time he learned a ton of valuable lessons on leading others, investing in people, and helping everyone grow and do better. He has a passion for mental health and ensuring that people who need a little boost get the boost they're looking for.
Whether you believe you're a leader or not, the truth is that you have it in you to guide and insp...
2023-06-2355 minLeft of Normal with Scott SeryLeft of Normal Episode 111 - How to Control Your ImpulsesLack of impulse control plagues a number of neurodivergent people. ADHD folks are especially prone to following the impulse to get that little dopamine hit.
Left of Normal people are prone to impulses as well. Often our impulses are less manic and crazy outbursts, and more stim activities.
Today, we're looking at impulsivity, impulse control, and how to help our impulsive children on the autism spectrum to rein themselves in as they feel the impulses but can control them.
2023-06-1617 min
Wide Left SportsInterview with Rock Climber Scott SeryListen as we interview Scott Sery about climbs he has done, and his upcoming attempt to summit Granite Peak! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
2023-06-1320 minLeft of Normal with Scott SeryLeft of Normal Episode 110 - Genie Love Talks about ADHD/ASD in the WorkplaceToday we have a guest on the show, Genie Love is a Neurodiversity coach. She helps businesses and individuals create a better, safer, and more productive workplace for everyone - those who are left, normies, and right. With a Master's degree in educational leadership, as well as degrees in physical therapy and teaching, she has plenty of experience with those on the spectrum and across a wide swath of ages.
She talks about how she works with people, what to look for, and how to make your workplace more accommodating to everyone regardless of where the...
2023-06-0829 minLeft of Normal with Scott SeryLeft of Normal Episode 109 - Holden Talks about FriendshipsWe have a split podcast today. I host part of it, Holden hosts part of it.
We'll talk about friendships, some of the struggles to make friends, what happens when friends aren't around.
We don't get into too much of the psychology behind having friends, why everyone needs some, and the benefits of it all, that's certainly something worth pursuing in a later episode that talks about autism and friendships. Today, we'll just cover how a Left of Normal child, and a Left of Normal adult make friends, how we feel when...
2023-06-0215 minLeft of Normal with Scott SeryLeft of Normal Episode 108 - Tales of Normies that Don’t Understand ThingsThere are some things that normies do... or rather don't do... that don't entirely make a lot of sense. It's not that hard to understand these concepts, and not hard to "do it the right way" but there's an insistence on a different way.
This episode is a bit discombobulated. Please don't downvote it even though it might be the worst episode I've uploaded yet.
Love you, mean it.
2023-05-2623 minLeft of Normal with Scott SeryLeft of Normal Episode 107 - The Secret to Money ManagementAs a Left of Normal, I find myself being more logical in decision making. This means that money money management has never really been much of an issue. Not all of us are like that, some tend to get a bit more confused with things like money.
Today we'll go through how my brain processes money decisions, and how a recent money event tried to disrupt that.
Fortunately, I overpowered my emotional brain with logic, beating it back into submission in the deep recesses of my mind where it belongs.
2023-05-1918 minLeft of Normal with Scott SeryLeft of Normal Episode 106 - Why Autistic People Walk on their ToesI recently came across a meme (I posted it in the Facebook group Left of Normal on May 11th) that talked about walking on tiptoes, or toe walking, and how that's an autism trait. This got me thinking about how often I walk on my toes, and started to realize I do it a lot... way more than a normal adult anyway.
So I dug a little deeper to find out why Left of Normal folks walk on tippy toes. And why I do it.
Let's take a look at toe walking as someone on th...
2023-05-1215 minLeft of Normal with Scott SeryLeft of Normal Episode 105 - You’re Slowly Killing YourselfNearly 1.5 million people in the US die from heart disease and cancer every year.
There are new studies showing strong correlations between our mindsets and why these issues have become so prevalent (our terrible diet isn't helping either).
Today we are looking at some of the ways our bodies and minds are not separate, but part of one overall organism, and why those on the spectrum can suffer from stress, worry, and anxiety a bit more than the normies out there.
2023-05-0525 minLeft of Normal with Scott SeryLeft of Normal Episode 104 - A Look into the Left of Normal Way of ThinkingToday we get to get a bunch of little snapshots into the mind of the Left of Normal.
This episode is all about reviewing excerpts from official diagnoses for those on the Autism Spectrum. I give my insights into why they happen, and share stories on how they have affected me throughout my life.
Plus a mini book review.
2023-04-2822 minLeft of Normal with Scott SeryLeft of Normal Episode 103 - Why We are Socially AwkwardOne of the defining characteristics of those with ASD is difficulty navigating social situations. Often it takes a lot of observation to fully understand what the appropriate behavior is.
Today we look at why, some annoying things normies say, and a little bit more.
There's also a story in there that includes 7 slugs.
2023-04-2115 minLeft of Normal with Scott SeryLeft of Normal Episode 102 - How Social Media Wrecks your MindWe all know that social media can damage your mental health. There are a ton of studies that show despite what we think, it's just not good for us.
Those who are on the autism spectrum can, however, find benefit in it since there is less pressure than in-person socializing.
Today's episode goes through the handful of social accounts I maintain, what I like and dislike about them. Toward the end I get into my theory on why we feel like crud after we spend time online.
2023-04-1323 minLeft of Normal with Scott SeryLeft of Normal Episode 101 - Logic Talk with Alexander ClarkToday we get to hear from a guest! Alexander Clark, who has his own podcast and radio show, is a man of many talents. He shares some insight into what makes him tick and how he interacts with the Left of Normal community.
After listening, check his podcast Xander Speaks, and make sure to check out his radio show that launches on April 10th.
2023-04-0727 minLeft of Normal with Scott SeryLet of Normal Episode 100 - Travel as a Left of Normal ChildHolden joins us as we talk about a recent road trip we went on. He shares what he likes and dislikes about the trip, and we get a glimpse into these adventures through the eyes of a child.
While I did try to steer the conversation to have him talk more about emotions, feelings, and what goes on in his mind, I don't think he's quite there to recognize those things... or maybe it's the ADHD that hides it all, who knows!
If you need help mapping out your next big adventure, I'm open to w...
2023-03-3112 minLeft of Normal with Scott SeryLeft of Normal Episode 99 - Sarcasm is Literally the BestThere are times when Left of Normal folks are tripped up. Usually it has to do with jokes, sarcasm, and otherwise using words that sound like one thing, but mean another.
Over the years, of course, I have become well adept at sarcasm and incorporate it into my every day life. But I can still be confused at times.
We talk about that, and other funny word usage in today's 'cast.
2023-03-2415 minLeft of Normal with Scott SeryLeft of Normal Episode 98 - Sharing is CaringSharing, both letting other people use our items and sharing about our personal lives can be difficult for the Left of Normal person.
Today we look at why it's hard to share toys, and what the expectations are for sharing about emotions, experiences, and the like... and what the barriers are when it comes to conversations and maintaining them.
2023-03-0917 minLeft of Normal with Scott SeryLeft of Normal Episode 97 - A Special Focus on Special InterestsWhen looking at those with ASD, there's often a defining characteristic of having a special interest.
Today, we're looking at what that even means, a talking about a handful of my own, poking the Hans Asperger topic, and looking at whether or not this is something unique to the autism community, or if it's more studied and researched as it pertains to Left of Normals.
2023-03-0215 minLeft of Normal with Scott SeryLeft of Normal Episode 96 - Characteristics of Confusing ConversationsConversating can be hard. Sometimes it's a matter of paying attention to too many things and forgetting to say your "yups" "uh-huhs" "dangs" and "wows"
Sometimes it's not knowing what to say or how to respond.
Sometimes we just don't want to talk but other people think that everyone wants to talk to them.
All this and more on how having a conversation with someone with Asperger's might not go smoothly.
2023-02-2312 minLeft of Normal with Scott SeryLeft of Normal Episode 95 - The Trouble with TransitionsOne of the fringe benefits of being on the spectrum is lower executive functioning skills. Those skills include things like being able to transition from one topic to another.
While it can be used for better, to really hone in on a particular topic or task, it often makes things harder as small interruptions can cause major setbacks or delays.
2023-02-1713 minLeft of Normal with Scott SeryLeft of Normal Episode 94 - You’re So Talented!The fastest way to discourage a child from greatness is to tell them that they're smart, talented, unique, etc.
Giving praise shouldn't be about the outcome, it should be about the process.
Today we look at some of the ways that those on the autism spectrum see praise, interpret it, and try to apply it. We look at better ways to encourage our kids, and how many compliments don't really spur us toward greatness, but rather hold us back.
2023-02-0916 minLeft of Normal with Scott SeryLeft of Normal Episode 93 - Brain Hacks to Overcome Anxiety and ProcrastinationThis week we have been talking about the Zeigarnik effect, and how it uses up a ton of brain energy when we don't close out projects, thoughts, and tasks.
It goes hand in hand with procrastination.
We'll look into that, and I give a tip on how you can be more persuasive with anyone using this one simple trick (scientists hate it... or maybe they love it and doctors hate it).
2023-02-0319 minLeft of Normal with Scott SeryLeft of Normal Episode 92 - Show Some Empathy why Dontcha!When dealing with people on the spectrum, they are often seen as lacking emotion. They're also seen as not being able to show empathy or sympathy.
That's only part true. We do experience the emotions, and understand what is going on, but the outward display is often lost somewhere between our brains and our appearance.
Today we look at what these words mean, and those with ASD process these emotions.
2023-01-2614 minLeft of Normal with Scott SeryLeft of Normal Episode 91 - Understanding LoN Food QuirksOne of the things we see a lot of is that those on the spectrum have food quirks.
Why though? Everyone has likes and dislikes, so what makes the LoN unique?
That and a handful of my likes and dislikes (and why I like and dislike them) in today's episode.
2023-01-2015 minLeft of Normal with Scott SeryLeft of Normal Episode 90 - Dispelling the Persistent Autism MythsThere are a lot of myths out there surrounding autism. Probably because it's really not well understood, and has largely only been studied the last 40ish years.
Along come celebrities that spout pseudo-science, and people that refuse to pursue education go ahead and repeat them.
Today we're looking at those myths, discovering why they persist, and laying down the facts around this condition.
2023-01-1214 minLeft of Normal with Scott SeryLeft of Normal Episode 89 - How Left of Normals Set Resolutions/Goals/Rules/AccomplishmentsThe New Year is upon us, and that means millions of people are failing their resolutions every single day. The problem isn't with what they're after, it's how they're setting about seeking that change.
Today's 'cast dips into why I have shunned resolutions, and how the changes I want to make in my life have evolved over the years.
It's something I recognized a long time ago, but didn't know what it was until recently.
2023-01-0612 minLeft of Normal with Scott SeryLeft of Normal Episode 88 - Stop Being So RudeMany people on the Autism spectrum are labeled as rude, arrogant, stuck-up, or a variety of other synonyms.
Most of the time, we don't even realize that people think we're snobbish or rude. We're just minding our business, and pissing people off along the way.
Today we look at a few times when I was regarded as such, explore a little why I feel it happened, and offer some insight to the normies out there that don't quite get it.
2022-12-2918 minLeft of Normal with Scott SeryLeft of Normal Episode 87 - The Left of Normal Winter BluesMillions of people get a little SAD this time of year. As an adult, I can rationalize and use logic to figure out what's going on.
Left of Normal children, however, only know that something doesn't feel right. There are a few ways to help keep them going, and keep them from slipping deep into depressive thoughts.
2022-12-2310 minLeft of Normal with Scott SeryLeft of Normal Episode 86 - Merry Left of Normal ChristmasChristmas can be an especially frustrating time for the Left of Normal person. Those frustrations are often compounded with children who are unaccustomed to coping with that frustration.
Over the years I have learned to expect the unexpected, and expect the routine disruption. It's still not comfortable, but I know it will begin, and I know it will end, and we just have to make it through.
2022-12-1614 minLeft of Normal with Scott SeryLeft of Normal Episode 85 - How the LoN Child Plays with ToysToday we take a look at some of the toys that I remember playing with as a child. Many of them were shared with my brothers, some were my own.
Often, however, the toys weren't played with in a traditional manner. And much of what I spent my time with wasn't even toys to begin with, but rather household goods and outdated technology.
2022-12-0915 minLeft of Normal with Scott SeryLeft of Normal Episode 84 - Embrace the WeirdnessThere are a handful of things that the Left of Normal mind pays attention to that we probably don't need to pay attention to.
Smiling is one of them. Today I tell you the story of how I terrified half the student body at MSU-B because I tried smiling.
That, and more quirks of being Left of Normal.
2022-12-0217 minLeft of Normal with Scott SeryLeft of Normal Episode 83 - Why Talking on the Phone SucksPhone calls are tedious and obnoxious. There are a lot of people that feel this way.
For the Left of Normal, however, they can tend to be even more tedious to the point where a short call can derail an entire day.
I lay it all out there as to why in the latest episode about living life on the autism spectrum.
2022-11-1812 minLeft of Normal with Scott SeryLeft of Normal Episode 82 - Just Act NormalFrom the time we are born, we are all trained in how we should act. We learn what is socially acceptable, and what is not.
For the Left of Normal, some of that doesn't come naturally; some feels really weird and is hard to do.
Over time we learn how to mimic what other people do. Today we look at a handful of these quirks that normies do and why they are the weirdos.
2022-11-1112 minLeft of Normal with Scott SeryLeft of Normal Episode 81 - The Autism Spectrum WheelToday we take a look at how ASD isn't really a linear spectrum, but rather a wheel. If you follow the Facebook community page, there's a picture posted on November 3rd (or just google "Autism Wheel").
We'll look at how it better defines who people are, how they think, and dip into a little story on when I used to have perceived anger issues.
2022-11-0413 minLeft of Normal with Scott SeryLeft of Normal Episode 80 - Holden Explains Routines, Social Situations, and MimickingWe have Holden back on the show as our guest. Today we're going through a handful of scenarios where Left of Normal people struggle a bit. I've mentioned my point of view in the past, and now we get a younger point of view as well.
Let's see how a child views the world and some of the things those on the spectrum struggle with.
2022-10-2810 minLeft of Normal with Scott SeryLeft of Normal Episode 79 - Holden Sery as HostLast week we interviewed Holden to get his idea on what being Left of Normal was all about.
This week we have reversed the roles, and Holden gets to bet he host as I answer the questions he has for me.
We talk about being Left of Normal as a child and an adult, and what difficulties were present as a child versus as an adult.
2022-10-2110 minLeft of Normal with Scott SeryLeft of Normal Episode 79 - Holden Sery as HostLast week we interviewed Holden to get his idea on what being Left of Normal was all about.
This week we have reversed the roles, and Holden gets to bet he host as I answer the questions he has for me.
We talk about being Left of Normal as a child and an adult, and what difficulties were present as a child versus as an adult.
2022-10-2110 minLeft of Normal with Scott SeryLeft of Normal Episode 78 - Through the Eyes of a ChildToday's episode we get to see how a 9 year old Left of Normal child sees the world.
Holden Sery joins us and talks about how he learned about Aspergers, what it has taught him about himself, and what everyone should know when dealing with an elementary aged Left of Normal.
About the 6 minute mark he talks about his special interests, notice how his tone changes and the excitement in his voice picks up.
2022-10-1410 minLeft of Normal with Scott SeryLeft of Normal Episode 78 - Through the Eyes of a ChildToday's episode we get to see how a 9 year old Left of Normal child sees the world.
Holden Sery joins us and talks about how he learned about Aspergers, what it has taught him about himself, and what everyone should know when dealing with an elementary aged Left of Normal.
About the 6 minute mark he talks about his special interests, notice how his tone changes and the excitement in his voice picks up.
2022-10-1410 minLeft of Normal with Scott SeryLeft of Normal Episode 77 - Tips on Traveling as Left of NormalTravel as a Left of Normal can be difficult. The change of environment, the unknowns, and the sensory overload can cause one to never want to leave the house again.
Many of us are curious on what's out there, so I developed some systems on how to make travel enjoyable without the overwhelm.
I have five tips on how to travel as a Left of Normal (something you can use with your LoN children as well).
2022-09-2817 minLeft of Normal with Scott SeryLeft of Normal Episode 76 - Managing Multiple NeurodivergenciesToday we take a little look at how NDs can lead to ED and what can be done about them. We look at ASD, ADD, ADHD, and see what NT's expect and what ND's put out.
If all those letters don't make sense, especially if you're wondering how ED plays into all this, I highly recommend tuning it. I make an appeal at the end for some resources.
2022-09-2310 minLeft of Normal with Scott SeryLeft of Normal Episode 75 - How Scott Almost Died in the Pryor MountainsSome of you wanted stories about how Scott almost died. Well, I am a sucker for giving the people what they want, so I laid it all out there with one of the many times I almost died in the Pryor Mountains.
If you have any feedback on the podcast, please send it my way. I'm always trying to make this thing better for you guys, so I'd love to hear from you.
2022-09-1615 minLeft of Normal with Scott SeryLeft of Normal Episode 75 - How Scott Almost Died in the Pryor MountainsSome of you wanted stories about how Scott almost died. Well, I am a sucker for giving the people what they want, so I laid it all out there with one of the many times I almost died in the Pryor Mountains.
If you have any feedback on the podcast, please send it my way. I'm always trying to make this thing better for you guys, so I'd love to hear from you.
2022-09-1615 minLeft of Normal with Scott SeryLeft of Normal Episode 74 - The For Profit Medical CommunityThis week's theme revolves around the "growth market for autism treatments" and whether or not that's an ethical market to be making money in.
What do you think? Should medical advancements be used for profit?
2022-09-0911 minLeft of Normal with Scott SeryLeft of Normal Episode 73 - Left of Normals in HollywoodMost likely you have seen someone in a movie or on TV that was on the spectrum.
Sometimes it's made known in the dialogue, other times it's just kind of implied.
Today's 'cast goes through a handful of examples, and breaks down the good, the bad, and the beneficial.
2022-09-0214 minLeft of Normal with Scott SeryLeft of Normal Episode 72 - Left of Normal KidsThere are some tell-tale signs of being Left of Normal from a young age.
In today's 'cast we look at a few of them I remember from when I grew up. And how you can spot, and support, your Left of Normal kids.
Take a look, let me know if you recognize anything in your own kids' lives.
2022-07-2822 minLeft of Normal with Scott SeryLeft of Normal Episode 71 - The Terms Autism and Asperger’s are DumbWhen you talk to people about Autism, they generally shower autistic people with platitudes about how amazing and great they are.
But the very term that's used to describe the way they think is designed to create division and label them as less great as those who are not on the spectrum.
More on that, plus some stories on how the sunshine constantly steals the souls from gingers.
2022-07-2114 minLeft of Normal with Scott SeryLeft of Normal Episode 70 - Mindset with Shane FichterSorry about the audio on this one, something was funky with my microphone/recording software/I'm not a tech guy.
Today's 'cast we talk to Shane Fichter. Shane has trusted me to write his book for him, and it's an amazing ride with story after story.
But his big story is that he's all about discovering your mindset, and then tweaking it so that who you are works for you, instead of against you.
2022-07-1526 minLeft of Normal with Scott SeryLeft of Normal Episode 69 (Nice) - FOCUS!The Left of Normal person tends to hyperfocus on one area of interest and go all in with it.
For me, I find that one area of interest changes regularly, but then I'll come back to it again and again.
Try as I might, I can't force myself to become interested in it again until the inspiration hits and suddenly I'm all in.
2022-07-0812 minLeft of Normal with Scott SeryLeft of Normal Episode 68 - Plans, Systems, and ProcesssesLeft of Normals thrive on well laid out plans. But they are often not good planners themselves.
In this 'cast, I lay out why we love that organization, and a couple anecdotes on how I'm a pretty badass planner. There's a quick question in there on what you think of my new business idea; feedback appreciated.
2022-07-0113 minLeft of Normal with Scott SeryLeft of Normal Episode 67 - Get out to find peaceNature is predictable.
That predictability, combined with a few other things, draws in the Left of Normal personality.
Today's 'cast talks about why nature is great, and how it can be used to soothe and calm the soul.
2022-06-2313 minLeft of Normal with Scott SeryLeft of Normal Episode 66 - Ambition with Kyle StricklinThis week we have a special guest on our 'cast. The theme was ambition, drive, and motivation, so I tapped the guy that has the most ambition, drive, and motivation that I know.
Kyle Stricklin owns a handful of companies. Every project he tackles, he looks into doing it himself so he can learn more about it. He's a tech nerd and a crypto bro. He's someone that I've enjoyed getting to know over the years, and he helped me in the early stages of my business.
2022-06-1629 minLeft of Normal with Scott SeryLeft of Normal Episode 65 - Why Left of Normals are UnderemployedJobs suck.
There area variety of factors that make them suck. From the application, to the interview, to the actual job itself.
When employers don't even know the first thing about ASD, it makes them even harder.
2022-06-1018 minLeft of Normal with Scott SeryLeft of Normal Episode 64 - A Bit More on Questions and Small TalkIn Episode 63 we went into how a good majority of small talk is filled up with questions for the sake of questions.
That raised some questions.
So today, we get back into it with the small talk, the questions asked, and clarify some of the terms that I use throughout the this episode and in several other episodes as well.
2022-06-0315 minLeft of Normal with Scott SeryLeft of Normal Episode 63 - Questions While ConversatingThere are a number of social interactions that I understand the purpose, the goal, and the end result.
But they don't make any sense as to why the occur... or why they're done in that manner instead of a more efficient or beneficial manner.
One of those is our fascination with asking pointless questions during a conversation.
2022-05-2712 minLeft of Normal with Scott SeryLeft of Normal Episode 62 - An Alternative to Taking MedicationThere is no cure for aspergers or autism. Mostly because those who have it don't need to be cured.
Life can get a little bit overwhelming at times. When the physical body is functioning optimally, the mind can overcome those overwhelming times more quickly and efficiently.
Today's guest, Dr. Shayla talks about chiropractic care and how joint adjustments can lead to big benefits.
2022-05-2023 minLeft of Normal with Scott SeryLeft of Normal Episode 61 - The Left Handed Left of NormalThere's a correlation between being Left of Normal, and having your left side be the dominant side.
Some studies suggest it has to do with echolalia.
Today's episode gets into that, and gives you a great analogy of what it's like to be on the spectrum.
2022-05-1412 minLeft of Normal with Scott SeryLeft of Normal Episode 60 - From the Outside Looking InLeft of Normal people don't have that intuition on how to navigate some social interactions. Normies seem to be born with it, we learn it through observation.
Sometimes, however, there is no observable interaction to base our behavior off of.
This can be good, leading to a new and un-thought of perspective. But often it leads to being more or less ostracized even further.
2022-05-0611 minLeft of Normal with Scott SeryLeft of Normal Episode 59 - Revisiting what Left of Normal is All AboutWe have new listeners. We have old listeners that can use a refresher. Today's episode talks about what Left of Normal is all about.
Here I talk about how the spectrum should actually look. Where myself, and many other people, fall on that spectrum.
And I dispel some myths about the spectrum, and being Left of Normal.
2022-04-2912 minLeft of Normal with Scott SeryLeft of Normal Episode 58 - Being an Athletic Left of NormalI learn so much about myself when reading about ASD.
For example, I learned that I'm supposed to be uncoordinated, clumsy, and not very good at sports.
I must have missed the memo, because while I'm not great at team sports, I'm definitely great at individualized sports.
We get into that, and more, in today's episode that's all about sportsing.
2022-04-2214 minLeft of Normal with Scott SeryLeft of Normal Episode 57 - Watch Your WordcountToday we have a guest on that likes to talk.
Fortunately, he was able to tone it down a bit and we were able to have a shorter and good conversation about talking.
Aubrey Kincaid has a lot of great information on how to figure out what you love, and when you can do that you can focus on the activities that bring you the green. Green as in cash money.
2022-04-1520 minLeft of Normal with Scott SeryLeft of Normal Episode 56 - We are Woke FolkI hate the term woke, but it gives off the right vibe for this podcast that's all about self-awareness and awareness of what's going on around us.
Today we look at where the Left of Normal stands on knowing about themselves and other people. And how we're constantly checking in to see if things are going the right way.
2022-04-0813 minLeft of Normal with Scott SeryLeft of Normal Episode 55 - Subtle HintsCommunication, especially informal conversation, can be difficult for the Left of Normal.
In part because body language is often misinterpreted, but also because as humans we give subtle hints instead of saying what we mean.
These hints are missed or misconstrued by the Left of Normal mind. Pandemonium ensues.
2022-04-0114 minLeft of Normal with Scott SeryLeft of Normal Episode 54 - Why Lefts Prefer Written to SpokenGrowing up I was always the weird quiet kid.
As an adult, I'm still weird and quiet (unless you get a couple beers in me).
There are many reasons on why the Left of Normal person prefers to stay a little quieter (one big one is so we don't make social blunders due to obnoxious social norms), and why we prefer to write things instead of say them.
Check it out.
2022-03-2511 minLeft of Normal with Scott SeryLeft of Normal Episode 53 - Guest Episode with Gary CarsonToday we have a special guest on the show.
I met Gary Carson through some networking events. We just kept bumping into each other often, so we got to know each other.
Now, a few years later, we've transitioned from the bumping into each other at networking events, to being friends.
Gary is amazing with his tech savviness, and has a great heart for helping people no matter what they need.
2022-03-1837 minLeft of Normal with Scott SeryLeft of Normal Episode 52 - Job Hunting SucksTrying to find a job is difficult enough. It's even worse when you're judged based on how many times you smile and make eye contact.
Today's 'cast looks at on the job situations, interviews, and applications. We talk about why arbitrary rules set people up for failure, and how those conducting interviews look at personality far more than qualifications.
2022-03-1118 minLeft of Normal with Scott SeryLeft of Normal Episode 51 - It’s All Your FaultThe Left of Normal mind processes information in a logical sequence. If this, then that.
When given instructions that are loaded with subtle hints, or even just interactions that contain subtle hints, the resulting performance misses the mark. If you say one thing, then it is interpreted as that thing.
The result is that it's the fault of the Left of Normal person, not the person giving poor directions.
2022-03-0412 minLeft of Normal with Scott SeryLeft of Normal Episode 50 - Safety in RoutinesI never thought I had many routines... until I looked and noticed all the little routines that I do throughout the day.
Today's episode talks about why Left of Normals like routines, and what happens when the routine is destroyed.
2022-02-2511 minLeft of Normal with Scott SeryLeft of Normal Episode 49 - Being Married to a LeftToday's episode kicks off a new theme for the upcoming year.
Left of Normal will be hosting guests on the podcast, where we can dive deeper into the differences between lefts, normies, and rights.
Today's episode we get to hear from the lovely Jessica Sery.
2022-02-1823 minLeft of Normal with Scott SeryLeft of Normal Episode 49 - Being Married to a LeftToday's episode kicks off a new theme for the upcoming year.
Left of Normal will be hosting guests on the podcast, where we can dive deeper into the differences between lefts, normies, and rights.
Today's episode we get to hear from the lovely Jessica Sery.
2022-02-1823 min
Start Up TalkOutside-of-the-box Entrepreneur Ideas - with Scott Sery - Start Up TalkToday's guest is Scott Sery, and we'll have a talk about outside-of-the-box entrepreneur ideas. There are plenty of tried-and-true strategies that will help you build an impressive business, but if you want to stand out from your competition, you have to think differently.
If you're an entrepreneur and looking for outside of the box ways to grow your business, these ideas are for you. They're unconventional, but they work.
Scott Sery is a storytelling copywriter who helps entrepreneurs that also helps train budding entrepreneurs. For more information about Scott, go to www.scottsery.com , www.se...
2021-03-2527 min