Summary
Join me as I sit down with Cat Contillo, a cybersecurity expert and multidisciplinary artist who is also a passionate advocate for autism and accessibility. Cat shares her journey from studying social work to becoming a cybersecurity professional, driven by her desire to help others and her love for technology. We discuss her late autism diagnosis and how it transformed her understanding of herself, leading to her advocacy for neurodiversity and accessibility in tech. Cat also offers insights into self-advocacy, setting boundaries, and creating inclusive spaces in the workplace. Tune in to hear Cat's inspiring story and learn how she empowers others to embrace their unique strengths and advocate for their needs.
Takeaways
Cat Contillo is a multidisciplinary artist and cybersecurity expert.
She emphasizes the importance of accessibility and inclusive design.
Cat's journey into cybersecurity was influenced by her work with seniors.
She was diagnosed with autism at 18, which changed her perspective on her identity.
Advocacy for neurodiversity became a passion for Cat in her professional life.
Self-advocacy is crucial for neurodivergent individuals in the workplace.
Setting boundaries is essential for maintaining energy and well-being.
Companies should be open-minded and empathetic towards neurodivergent employees.
Accommodations should be provided without the need for justification.
Culture add is more beneficial than culture fit in workplaces.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Kat Contillo
02:47 Journey into Cybersecurity
05:32 Understanding Neurodiversity
08:15 Advocacy and Self-Discovery
10:47 Navigating the Workforce as Neurodivergent
13:35 The Importance of Self-Advocacy
15:59 Setting Boundaries for Well-Being
18:45 Creating Inclusive Work Environments
21:31 Addressing Accommodation Needs
24:23 Empathy in the Workplace
26:45 Final Thoughts on Inclusion
Connect with Cat on the web:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/cattillo/
https://chronicallyempowered.threadless.com/
https://www.threads.net/@chronicallyempoweredco