Episode Summary
Forget what you’ve heard about discipline.
In this episode, Bernie jams with Sam Sundius, visual artist, coach, and neurodivergent champion, to unravel why the usual "productivity hacks" rarely help—and often hurt—neurodivergent creatives. Sam shares a radically refreshing approach: stop fighting your brain and start reshaping your environment instead.
They discuss why true accessibility isn't a checkbox exercise, why small changes (like simply putting more clocks on the wall) matter, and how coworking spaces can genuinely serve neurodivergent members without falling prey to empty buzzwords.
If you've ever struggled to "just get stuff done," wondered what accessibility truly means, or felt like you're working too hard just to fit in, listen closely—this one's for you.
Timeline Highlights
[0:40] – Bernie introduces the Community Builder Cohort
[1:17] – Who is Sam Sundius, and what’s the Art of Undiscipline?
[3:48] – The biggest myths about ADHD & neurodivergence
[5:36] – How coworking spaces can support neurodivergent members
[7:50] – Accessibility: Why rules don’t work—but practice does
[10:23] – The headphones paradox and why small changes matter
[11:43] – Clocks on the wall: A simple fix for time blindness
[15:26] – Where’s the line between inclusivity and personal responsibility?
[22:09] – The business case for accessibility and inclusion
[27:12] – Why spaces built for a specific community work better
[30:44] – The problem with “everyone is welcome”
[33:06] – How defensiveness plays into exclusion vs. belonging
[35:44] – Elon Musk, othering, and learning to sit with discomfort
[37:02] – Where to find Sam online
The Art of Undiscipline: Learning Into How Your Brain Works
Sam built her coaching practice around a radical but simple idea—instead of forcing yourself to fit a rigid system, why not shape your work to suit you?
Too many neurodivergent people use self-discipline as a weapon rather than a tool.
Sam explains how coworking spaces and work environments can be structured to meet people where they are, rather than expecting them to constantly “fix” themselves.
Myths About ADHD & Neurodiversity in Coworking
The buzz around neurodiversity is growing, but what’s real and what’s just performative?
Sam breaks down the biggest myths—from the idea that every neurodivergent person needs the same accommodations to the assumption that inclusion means redesigning everything from scratch.
She argues that community-first coworking spaces are already halfway there—they need to listen better.
How to Make a Space Feel Instantly More Neurodivergent-Friendly
Forget big, expensive renovations—small tweaks can make a huge difference.
✅ Clocks on the walls – Helps with time blindness without extra mental effort.
✅ Flexible noise policies – Headphones aren’t a cure-all, but a “quiet norm” can help.
✅ Responsive environments – Accessibility isn’t a checklist; it’s a continuous conversation.
Where’s the Line? Personal Responsibility vs. Inclusive Spaces
Not every space is for everyone—and that’s okay. Sam and Bernie discuss the tension between making a space inclusive and accepting that not every space will be a perfect fit.
Whether it’s a neurodivergent-friendly coworking space, a women-focused workspace, or a bar that doesn’t match your vibe, Sam argues that true inclusion isn’t about pleasing everyone—it’s about building intentional, thriving communities.
The Business Case for Accessibility & Inclusion
Inclusion isn’t just the “right thing to do”—it’s also good business.
Sam explains why spaces that deeply understand and serve a specific community do better than those that try to cater to everyone.
A space built with neurodivergent folks in mind, for example, attracts loyal members who feel truly at home rather than just checking a “diversity” box.
Links & Resources
Art of Undiscipline – Sam’s coaching & community for neurodivergent creatives
Connect with Sam Sundius on Instagram
One more thing
Coworking brings communities together, helping people find and share their voices.
Each episode of the Coworking Values Podcast explores the core values driving coworking: Accessibility, Community, Openness, Collaboration, and Sustainability.
These values aren’t just ideas—they shape the spaces where we gather, work, and grow.
We hope this resonates with you.
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Your support amplifies our reach, helping others discover how coworking can enrich lives, build careers, and strengthen communities.
Community is the key 🔑
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