Creating workplaces that work for all to thrive with Tara May

Insights Unlocked

Episode web page: https://bit.ly/4fEzKXi

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Episode summary:

In this thought-provoking episode of Insights Unlocked, host Lija Hogan is joined by Tara May, CEO of Spirit Tech—a pioneering tech company where more than 90% of the staff are autistic. Together, they explore what it truly means to create inclusive workplaces, the business value of kindness, and how small, thoughtful changes can make a big difference in employee well-being and productivity.

Tara shares the inspiring origin of Aspiritech, founded to provide meaningful employment for autistic adults, and how the company scaled into a $6 million operation serving Fortune 500 clients. She introduces powerful ideas like the “ROI of kindness” and emphasizes that neurodiversity is not only already present in most workplaces but also a source of innovation when embraced thoughtfully.

Listeners will gain insights into practical strategies for fostering psychological safety, debunking myths about working with neurodivergent individuals, and how companies can start their journey toward greater neuroinclusion—often with simple, cost-free adjustments. Tara also discusses how AI, if shaped by diverse perspectives, can either reinforce biases or help break them.

Whether you're a team leader, HR professional, researcher, or product designer, this episode offers fresh perspectives on designing work environments where everyone can thrive.

What you'll learn in this episode:

• Why neurodiversity is already part of your team, even if it's not talked about

• The real business impact of empathy and kindness

• What “the ROI of kindness” means and how it can drive innovation

• Misconceptions about working with autistic professionals

• Easy, low-cost accommodations that support all employees

• How neurodivergent perspectives are critical in shaping inclusive AI

• Actionable tips for starting or advancing your neuroinclusion efforts

Resources & Links:

• Tara May on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/taranmay/)

• Aspiritech website (https://aspiritech.org)

• Nathan Isaacs on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/nathanisaacs/)

• Learn more about Insights Unlocked: https://www.usertesting.com/podcast