photo of Chris Pratt with sky background and title why i got cancer

Join me on The Art of Imperfect Adulting

This was a special guesting opportunity:

I’m so excited to share something close to my heart: I recently joined Amy Stone on her podcast, “The Art of Imperfect Adulting,” to talk about a journey that’s truly transformed my life—starting a radio show focused on navigating family, business, and everything neurodivergent.

If you’ve ever wondered how to juggle being a parent, a business owner, and a human with a wonderfully different brain, this conversation is for you! In just under an hour, we take a deep dive into my family’s story and the lessons I’ve learned along the way.

Here’s a taste of what we covered:

The real story behind launching a neurodivergent-focused radio show (and how it unexpectedly shifted my business and life)
What it means to be a family of nine—where every single one of us is neurodivergent (yes, really!)
How I moved past imposter syndrome and embraced vulnerability while sharing personal stories on the air (and what happened next)
Insights on “masking” in neurodivergent communities and why it’s time for authenticity and understanding
The surprising way my work and home life found balance when I finally decided to bring my whole self to everything I do

“If you’re wondering who is going to see any value in what you have to say—here’s the truth: People just want to make connections, to hear your story and tell theirs and just be understood.” — That’s a quote from our chat that I truly live by now.

If you’re a neurodivergent entrepreneur, a parent, or simply curious about what it looks like to thrive outside the “typical” mold, this episode is for you. We talk about practical tips, community, and how important it is to create spaces where everyone feels seen.

Listen to the episode now: https://imperfect-adulting.captivate.fm/listen
Or watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/fKCside3kpU

Or Read Amy’s Blog Post about the episode: What Happens When You Publicly Share Your Private Family Stories – The Art of Imperfect Adulting

I’d love to hear your thoughts—does any part of my story resonate with you?

chris bio pic in white shirt with blue and gray tie and vest

Amy Stone:

Hi! I’m Amy, and I’ve spent decades collecting “wait a second…am I supposed to actually know how to do this?” moments.

From the supposedly simple stuff (like realizing you have no idea how garbage pickup actually works) to the surprisingly complex (like Googling ‘what’s that clicking noise in my walls?’ at 2 AM), adulting throws curveballs daily. Then there are those conversations that no one prepared us for – convincing a determined toddler that their superhero costume isn’t school attire, diplomatically declining your mother-in-law’s ‘signature dish,’ or summoning the courage to ask for that long-overdue raise.

Each day brings another moment where we wish we could phone-a-friend or call in an ‘adultier adult’ for backup. Just when I’d get one part of life figured out, another would slip through my fingers – like trying to nail jello to a tree. I found myself wondering if anyone actually gets to feel like ‘I’ve got this’ for more than a few minutes or hours at a time.

Spoiler alert: I’m still waiting.

But along the way, I’ve become a mom, stepmom, stepgrandma, runner, triathlete, author, podcaster, speaker, and coach/mentor. More importantly, I’ve learned that some of the best moments in life happen when we stop trying to be perfect and start embracing the adventure.

Deanna Brakefield: My Story

This community holds a special place in my heart because of the make up of my family. Finding the right resources for our family has been a constant challenge. From practices taught to the providers themselves to insurance and scarcity of services and IEP’s. We have fought the good fight, like many of you.

That’s why I launched Neurodivergent News—a resource for those who help, support, or are neurodivergent. In an age where people are searching for resources online and on the radio it has never been easier to bring together communities.

**Disclaimer** The content provided on Neurodivergent News, including but not limited to our website, YouTube channel, podcast, and social media platforms, is intended for informational and entertainment purposes only. The information shared is based on personal experiences, research, and opinions, and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Neurodivergent News and its creator, including Deanna Brakefield, are not licensed healthcare providers and do not provide medical, legal, or other professional advice. Any information presented should not be considered as medical advice or a recommendation for any specific treatment, product, or course of action. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional before making any decisions regarding your health, starting new treatments, or making significant changes to your existing healthcare regimen. The use or reliance on any information provided by Neurodivergent News is solely at your own risk. Neurodivergent News, its creators, and any associated parties disclaim any liability or responsibility for any harm, loss, or injury resulting from the use or misuse of information contained within our content. By engaging with our content, you acknowledge and agree to this disclaimer.