The Invisible Gift

OneFinePlay

Welcome to The Invisible Gift, the show all about turning the Neurodiversity into possibility.

Andrew Kitley grew up knowing he was different. His dyslexia and ADHD made it difficult for Andrew to learn the same way others did in school. Despite Andrew possessing exceptional abilities in other areas, he was told he had a problem, a disability. Andrew left school frustrated, unfulfilled, without reaching his full potential.

This could have been a disaster but it turned out to be a blessing. Andrew would work his way up the literal and metaphorical ladder to become Managing Director of Kitall: a structural engineering firm. Under Andrew's guidance, Kitall is now one of the most sought after names to complete complex engineering projects in the UK.

Now, Andrew is under no illusion he has a gift. His dyslexia, his neurodiversity, has made him determined, adaptive, and creative. Andrew is on a mission to learn more about neurodiversity. How it can challenge, define, and empower. In The Invisible Gift, Andrew will seek the advice and inspiration of another trailblazer who has defied the odds to achieve the extraordinary - turning their challenge into an invisible gift.

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56 episodes
Updated Mar 15, 2023

Episodes56

Newest first

Oct 19, 2022 · 56 min
Overcoming adversity and the importance of a growth mindset with Joe Garner
Episode Description: Today, Andrew is joined by Joe Garner, co-founder of property development company New Place Associates. In the episode, Joe opens up about his struggles with addiction and mental health - and how he overcome them. Andrew and Joe also also discuss what they do as entrepreneurs to counteract the challenges presented by ADHD, and why the loss of community centres has been a devastating blow for so many. Top Quotes: “Who you surround yourself with is so important. No matter what your shortcomings are your network can improve you because they improve your standards. That can make you successful.” - Andrew “You need to fail often, fail hard but fail forward.” - Andrew About the host: The Invisible Gift is hosted by entrepreneur and dyslexic, Andrew Kitley. With twenty years experience, Andrew Kitley has worked his way up the metaphorical and literal ladder to become Managing Director of Kitall: an engineering firm. Under Andrew's guidance, Kitall is now one of the most sought after names to complete complex engineering projects in the UK. In each episode of The Invisible Gift, Andrew seeks the advice and inspiration of a fellow trailblazer who has defied the odds to achieve the extraordinary - turning the challenge of dyslexia into a gift. About the guest: Joe Garner is an entrepreneur and founder of New Place Associates. After studying law at university and completing the Legal Practice Course - Joe was offered a graduate role combining his two passions, construction and contract law. Joe joined Knight Harwood where he spearheaded a commercial team that delivered projects in the One Hyde Park development and the Chiltern St Firehouse whilst also passing his APC to become a Member of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors. In 2018, Joe co-founded New Place Associates: a property development company that has built over 50 affordable houses since 2018. Joe has Pure-O OCD and ADHD. Resources: https://www.thisisnewplace.com/ http://theinvisiblegift.com/ https://www.kitall.co.uk/ https://www.onefineplay.com/
Oct 12, 2022 · 58 min
The future of working, and the power of diversity with Roei Samuel
Episode Description: On today’s podcast, Andrew is joined by entrepreneur and founder Roei Samuel. In the show, Roei explains why he thinks the future of working is in augmented reality, why the key to building diverse teams is in the hiring process, and the boys discuss restless leg syndrome. Top Quotes: “My neurodiversity helps me think ten steps ahead. That foresight, that quick thinking. For me that’s the gift of ADHD.” - Roei Samuel “Before Covid, I never realised how lonely the world can be. That’s why I’m not sold on augmented reality yet because human interaction feels like the essence of what we are.” - Andrew Kitley About the host: The Invisible Gift is hosted by entrepreneur and dyslexic, Andrew Kitley. With twenty years experience, Andrew Kitley has worked his way up the metaphorical and literal ladder to become Managing Director of Kitall: an engineering firm. Under Andrew's guidance, Kitall is now one of the most sought after names to complete complex engineering projects in the UK. In each episode of The Invisible Gift, Andrew seeks the advice and inspiration of a fellow trailblazer who has defied the odds to achieve the extraordinary - turning the challenge of dyslexia into a gift. About the guest: Roei Samuel is a successful serial entrepreneur. In 2014, aged 23, Roei launched one of the world’s most successful eSports platforms, RealSport, which he scaled to 9.5million monthly users and took to a full multi-million-pound acquisition by Gfinity in 2018. Roei has ADHD and dyslexia, and in 2020, he launched Connectd – a smart-matching platform that connects start-ups with relevant investors and NEDs. This matchmaking subscription service removes any class, race and location bias - making investment accessible to all startups. The goal of the company is to make investment accessible for startups - regardless of class, gender, ethnicity and neurodiversity. Roei has also been featured in the BBC’s Million by 30 list. Resources: connectd.co http://theinvisiblegift.com/ https://www.kitall.co.uk/ https://www.onefineplay.com/
Oct 12, 2022 · 1 min
The Invisible Gift Trailer Season 4
Trailer We’re excited to bring you brand new episodes of The Invisible Gift. This season, Andrew will be joined by top entrepreneurs, incredible business leaders, and award winning artists. So make sure you don’t miss these new episodes of The Invisible Gift - the show all about turning neurodiversity into possibility!
Jul 27, 2022 · 58 min
The Neurodivergent Coach with Nathan Whitbread
Episode description In the final episode of season 3 of the invisible gift, Andrew meets Nathan Whitbread - The Neurodivergent Coach. The Neurodivergent Coach provides Consultancy, Coaching and Assistive Technology training for dyslexic and neurodivergent individuals and teams. In the episode, we learn what the term neurodiversity really means. Nathan explains the Medici effect and why neurodiversity has finally become sexy. And the boys identify why the best leaders work for their employees. Not the other way round. Top quotes “Labels can be helpful but also quite dangerous. It’s always important to remember first that you are a unique human with unique characteristics and traits who happens to have a dyslexia diagnoses.” - Nathan Whitbread “I always say we should strive to identify as individuals not by groups or labels because you can pigeon hole yourself.” - Andrew Kitley About the guest Nathan Whitbread is a motivational speaker and founder of The Neurodivergent Coach. Nathan described his early life in education as ‘constantly avoiding’ essays. He would chose his degree precisely because it wasn’t essay driven. Nathan graduated from the University of Surrey with a degree in Mechanical Engineering with Business and Management in 1998. Nathan would only learn he had dyslexia when he began a career in marketing. In 2015, Nathan founded The Neurodivergent Coach. The Neurodivergent Coach provides Consultancy, Coaching and Assistive Technology training for dyslexic and neurodivergent individuals and teams. The Neurodivergent Coach works with both individuals and organisations to create a more neuro-inclusive workplace. Since 2017 he has been a Workplace Needs Assessor for the British Dyslexia Association. Nathan is also an Associate Assistive Technology Training Consultant and Coach at eVoice. About the host The Invisible Gift is hosted by entrepreneur and dyslexic, Andrew Kitley. With twenty years experience, Andrew Kitley has worked his way up the metaphorical and literal ladder to become Managing Director of Kitall: an engineering firm. Under Andrew's guidance, Kitall is now one of the most sought after names to complete complex engineering projects in the UK. In each episode of The Invisible Gift, Andrew seeks the advice and inspiration of a fellow trailblazer who has defied the odds to achieve the extraordinary - turning the challenge of neurodiversity into a gift. Resources https://www.kitall.co.uk/ https://www.onefineplay.com/ https://theneurodivergentcoach.co.uk/
Jul 20, 2022 · 1 hr 4 min
From debt to building your dream business with Kane Dowell
Episode description This week, we have Kane Dowell on the podcast. Kane is an entrepreneur and founder of gift & confectionary company Ask Mummy & Daddy. Kane began his career working with fellow dyslexic entrepreneur Cath Kidston before working his way up through the company and eventually leaving to start his own business. In the episode, we learn how a chance encounter led Kane Dowell to get his first job from Cath Kidston herself. Andrew and Kane discuss candidly how they both got in, and out, of debt. And the boys chat about how you know when a business has outgrown its founder. Top quotes “Because I couldn’t do so many things in school I had to supplement my short comings by developing my skills with people. That is definitely something dyslexia has given me.” - Andrew Kitley “My invisible gift is the fact that I will speak and treat everyone the same. I think it’s something I learned working with Cath Kidston who is a multi-millionaire but who always appreciated people being direct and straight up. My invisible gift is not pretending to be something I’m not.” - Kane Dowell About the guest Kane Dowell is an entrepreneur and founder of gift & confectionary company Ask Mummy & Daddy. Kane didn’t get any GCSE’s. Despite this, he knew he was an intelligent with a head full of ideas, but wasn’t able to express them. He would learn he was dyslexic at age 11 and leave school at 15. Kane upon a chance meeting, would get a job working under fellow dyslexic Cath Kidston. He worked at there for nearly nine years as a retail marketing events and planning officer. Eventually he would move on and begin his own business - high end confectionary and gift company Ask Mummy & Daddy in 2017. The business immediately took off - they became permanent stockists in Selfridges stores across the UK, and were stocked in Fenwicks department stores. They also opened a pop-up store in the heart of Notting Hill for a year. Now the company is a full-time operation with their own production, marketing, and events teams. About the host The Invisible Gift is hosted by entrepreneur and dyslexic, Andrew Kitley. With twenty years experience, Andrew Kitley has worked his way up the metaphorical and literal ladder to become Managing Director of Kitall: an engineering firm. Under Andrew's guidance, Kitall is now one of the most sought after names to complete complex engineering projects in the UK. In each episode of The Invisible Gift, Andrew seeks the advice and inspiration of a fellow trailblazer who has defied the odds to achieve the extraordinary - turning the challenge of neurodiversity into a gift. Resources https://www.kitall.co.uk/ https://www.onefineplay.com/ https://www.askmummyanddaddy.com/
Jul 13, 2022 · 53 min
Cognassist & the power of getting tested with Chris Quickfall
Episode description This week on The Invisible Gift, Andrew meets CEO & Founder of Cognassist - a company that offers tests to detect neurodiverse conditions such as dyslexia and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. In the episode, Chris explains why the idea of designing an education system around an ‘average brain’ is deeply flawed. Andrew asks Chris why there is a general reluctance for adults and children to get tested for having a neurodiversity, and the boys discuss when neurodiversity will finally be embraced. Top quotes “The disadvantage of neurodiversity isn’t the neurodiversity itself but the environment that surrounds it” - Chris Quickfall “Do you want 20 of one kind of brain to solve a problem or do you want 20 different ones? I know which one an investor would choose.” - Chris Quickfall About the guest Chris Quickfall is a CEO and entrepreneur. In 2017, Chris established Cognassist which offers tests to apprentices and students detecting neurodiverse conditions such as dyslexia and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. Since its inception, Cognassist has diagnosed more than 100,000 people. Cognassist is now the UK’s leading digital cognitive assessment EdTech platform, working with over 100 of the UK’s best education providers. About the host The Invisible Gift is hosted by entrepreneur and dyslexic, Andrew Kitley. With twenty years experience, Andrew Kitley has worked his way up the metaphorical and literal ladder to become Managing Director of Kitall: an engineering firm. Under Andrew's guidance, Kitall is now one of the most sought after names to complete complex engineering projects in the UK. In each episode of The Invisible Gift, Andrew seeks the advice and inspiration of a fellow trailblazer who has defied the odds to achieve the extraordinary - turning the challenge of neurodiversity into a gift. Resources https://www.kitall.co.uk/ https://www.onefineplay.com/ https://cognassist.com/
Jul 6, 2022 · 53 min
David C. Hall & unlocking your potential
Episode description This week on the podcast, Andrew is joined by motivational speaker and teacher David C. Hall. David is dyslexic & a best selling author with the book ‘Inspire Your Child’s Greatness’. In the episode, the boys discuss how poor grades can destroy your confidence as a child. David debunks common myths around neurodiversity and explains the real reason why people underachieve and David reveals the secret to unlocking your true potential. Top quotes “The key to life is happiness & legacy. The world should be a better place when you leave it then when you arrived.” - Andrew Kitley “I’ve realised that a lot of people underachieve due to a skewed self concept. They have decided that they’re not intelligent, or they can’t learn, or learning is boring. So my work is built around redefining people’s skewed self concept.” - David C. Hall “Ultimately the grades that we achieve are a reflection of our own skewed self concept.” - David C. Hall About the guest David C. Hall is a bestselling author, speaker and motivational coach. David C. Hall was diagnosed with dyslexia at the age of just three and education was a challenge in his early life. Despite being initially four years behind, he would prove the doubters wrong by passing 11 GCSEs and his A-Levels as well. He went on to become a teacher himself and eventually opening a private tutoring business in his home city of Birmingham - helping other struggling pupils. Potential Unlocked Tuition Centre, based in Aberdeen Street, was launched in 2017 offering individual teaching, coaching and support to students aged up to 18. David is the author of the best-selling book The Empowering Parent (2019). Today, David works with parents, educators, policy-makers and organisations to ignite a movement of people who are fulfilled, successful and transformed to enjoy a passion-driven career and be a positive contributor to society. David has been School Governor on the Birmingham City Council since 2020. About the host The Invisible Gift is hosted by entrepreneur and dyslexic, Andrew Kitley. With twenty years experience, Andrew Kitley has worked his way up the metaphorical and literal ladder to become Managing Director of Kitall: an engineering firm. Under Andrew's guidance, Kitall is now one of the most sought after names to complete complex engineering projects in the UK. In each episode of The Invisible Gift, Andrew seeks the advice and inspiration of a fellow trailblazer who has defied the odds to achieve the extraordinary - turning the challenge of neurodiversity into a gift. Resources https://www.kitall.co.uk/ https://www.onefineplay.com/ https://davidchall.co.uk/
Jun 29, 2022 · 1 hr 2 min
Why companies need neurodiversity with Neuropool’s Jack Dyrhauge
Episode description In this week’s episode of The Invisible Gift, Andrew sits down with CEO of Neuropool, Jack Dyrhauge. Neuropool provides training, accessibility to career pathways and employment opportunities for neurodivergents, and they are building the largest pool of Neurodiverse talent in the UK. In the episode, Jack elaborates on his own experience of being medicated from a young age due to his ADHD. Andrew & Jack have a frank conversation on whether you should tell your employer you have a neurodiversity and Jack speaks powerfully on why companies need neurodivergence. Top quotes “If you look at the three entrepreneurs that lead the businesses that run this world: Facebook, Google, Tesla. They’re neurodivergent people. So if you want to know the value of neurodivergence - look at the business leaders.” - Jack Dyrhauge “I’m a big advocate of diversity but in its true sense. So that’s diversity across the board in every single way. All kinds of people from all works of life need to be in your company.” - Andrew Kitley About the guest Jack Dyrhauge is an Autistic, ADHD entrepreneur who is also CEO of Neuropool - a company that connects neurodiverse individuals to diverse employers. Jack struggled in school and failed to achieve any GCSEs growing up. In 2019, Jack started Neuropool - a company that aims to provide training, and accessibility to career pathways and employment opportunities to neurodivergents. Jack is also the founder of The Next Steps Foundation: Helping people with autism find a job they want, from building confidence to carving out a career path and landing their first interview. Jack is a neurodiversity & employment guest speaker at the University of Bath About the host The Invisible Gift is hosted by entrepreneur and dyslexic, Andrew Kitley. With twenty years experience, Andrew Kitley has worked his way up the metaphorical and literal ladder to become Managing Director of Kitall: an engineering firm. Under Andrew's guidance, Kitall is now one of the most sought after names to complete complex engineering projects in the UK. In each episode of The Invisible Gift, Andrew seeks the advice and inspiration of a fellow trailblazer who has defied the odds to achieve the extraordinary - turning the challenge of neurodiversity into a gift. Resources https://www.kitall.co.uk/ https://www.onefineplay.com/ https://neuropool.co/
Jun 22, 2022 · 59 min
Building your personal brand with Ellie Middleton
Episode Description On this week’s episode of the podcast, Andrew meet personal brand specialist Ellie Middleton. In 2021, Ellie made a post on LinkedIn questioning what acting ‘professional’ on social media really is in the modern day. The post became a viral trend reaching over a million people. In the episode, Andrew and Ellie discuss the post that made her go viral, and the impact it had. Ellie also explains the importance of personal brand and reveals some useful tips neurodivergents can use to build their own. Top quotes “My biggest piece of advice when building a personal brand is to build it around yourself, who you are, and your values.” - Ellie Middleton “My mantra to life is embrace yourself. Embracing myself has given me the confidence to do whatever I want.” - Andrew Kitley About the guest Ellie Middleton is an influencer and personal brand specialist who has ADHD & autism. In 2021, Ellie made a post on LinkedIn questioning what acting ‘professional’ on social media really is in the modern day. The post went viral with many others posting their version of what a professional really looks like - asserting that you can have any hairstyle, any form of clothing, or any number of tattoos etc. The post became a viral trend proving that there's more to being professional than appearances. Ellie’s original post would end up reaching over a million people. As of January 2022, Ellie has over 20,000 followers on LinkedIn. Ellie is also a foodie & micro-influencer at @lifewithmidds. About the host The Invisible Gift is hosted by entrepreneur and dyslexic, Andrew Kitley. With twenty years experience, Andrew Kitley has worked his way up the metaphorical and literal ladder to become Managing Director of Kitall: an engineering firm. Under Andrew's guidance, Kitall is now one of the most sought after names to complete complex engineering projects in the UK. In each episode of The Invisible Gift, Andrew seeks the advice and inspiration of a fellow trailblazer who has defied the odds to achieve the extraordinary - turning the challenge of neurodiversity into a gift. Resources https://www.kitall.co.uk/ https://www.onefineplay.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/elliemidds/
Jun 15, 2022 · 1 hr 4 min
Venture Capitalism & ‘The Dyslexic Investor’ with Edward Keelan
Episode description On this week’s episode of The Invisible Gift, sits down with Edward Keelan aka The Dyslexic Investor - Principal Investor with Octopus Ventures. In the show, Edward explains what a venture capitalist actually does, Andrew asks Edward if dyslexics really are discriminated against by their employers, and the lads share anecdotes on their worst best man speeches. Top quotes “My invisible gift is my ability to roll back from failure.” - Edward “When you’re younger you care what people think. When you’re in your thirties you stop caring. And then when you’re older you realise nobody cared anyway!” - Andrew About the guest Edward Keelan is Principal Investor at Octopus Ventures and blogs under the name ‘The Dyslexic Investor’. Edward would join the sales department of Octopus Ventures in 2008 and would work his way into the Investment Team becoming Principal Investor in 2019. In March 2020, Edward published his first blog as the ‘Dyslexic Investor’ where he spoke candidly about his experiences, his dyslexia and his believe that neurodiversity offers a different, rather than inferior, set of skills. The post would go viral and would later be republished on the British Dyslexia Association’s website. Edward was awarded mentor of the year 2020 at Career Ready. About the host The Invisible Gift is hosted by entrepreneur and dyslexic, Andrew Kitley. With twenty years experience, Andrew Kitley has worked his way up the metaphorical and literal ladder to become Managing Director of Kitall: an engineering firm. Under Andrew's guidance, Kitall is now one of the most sought after names to complete complex engineering projects in the UK. In each episode of The Invisible Gift, Andrew seeks the advice and inspiration of a fellow trailblazer who has defied the odds to achieve the extraordinary - turning the challenge of neurodiversity into a gift. Resources https://www.kitall.co.uk/ https://www.onefineplay.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/edward-keelan-b241211/?originalSubdomain=uk
Jun 8, 2022 · 1 hr 1 min
Alison Edgar MBE & the secret to getting what you want
Episode description On this week’s episode of the podcast, Andrew meets online with sales expert, motivational speaker, and author Alison Edgar MBE. In the episode, Andrew and Alison discuss how we should build the confidence of neurodiverse children, Andrew asks Alison if the education system outdated, and Alison reveals the secret to getting what you want. Top quotes “Too many people search for that other half of themselves, that other person, to make them happy. We came into the world on our own. We’re going to go out on our own. We have to make that happiness ourselves.” - Alison “People always say that they’re one half and their partner is the other half. But if you’re not complete yourself eventually you’l’ be empty.” - Andrew About the guest Alison Edgar MBE aka **‘**The Entrepreneur’s Godmother’ is Managing Director of Sales Coaching Solutions, as well as an author and entrepreneur. In 2011, Alison started her own business: ‘Sales Coaching Solutions’ aiming to train and empower small business and startups for succeeding. In 2017, Alison wrote her first book that would become WHSmith Top Ten and Amazon Best Seller: ‘Secrets of Successful Sales’. The book has been recognised by The Independent as one of the top business books written by a woman. In 2020, she launched her new book ‘SMASH IT: The Art of Getting What YOU Want’. A book all about how you can achieve your dreams. She has featured in numerous publications including The Telegraph, The Guardian, The Mail on Sunday and Prima Magazine. In 2020, Alison received an MBE for recognition of her long-term work within entrepreneurship and business. About the host The Invisible Gift is hosted by entrepreneur and dyslexic, Andrew Kitley. With twenty years experience, Andrew Kitley has worked his way up the metaphorical and literal ladder to become Managing Director of Kitall: an engineering firm. Under Andrew's guidance, Kitall is now one of the most sought after names to complete complex engineering projects in the UK. In each episode of The Invisible Gift, Andrew seeks the advice and inspiration of a fellow trailblazer who has defied the odds to achieve the extraordinary - turning the challenge of neurodiversity into a gift. Resources https://www.kitall.co.uk/ https://www.onefineplay.com/ https://www.alisonedgar.com/
May 25, 2022 · 1 hr 5 min
Technology, dyslexia and joy of failure with Amazon’s Jon Hammant
Episode description On this week’s episode, Andrew meets Amazon’s Jon Hammant. Jon is Head of Compute for UK & Ireland at Amazon Web Services and he’s had extraordinary career. He got his A-Level in computer science at 12, built the London Stock Exchange, and has worked in senior roles in Deutsche Bank and Goldman Sachs. In the episode, Jon explains why being dyslexic has made challenges easier. The boys discuss the worrying lack of young people taking computer science in school and Jon & Andrew talk about the importance of failure. Top quotes “I’ve failed so many times in my life. I’ve gone to more job interviews than I could possibly name. But my life changed when I started writing down why I failed each job interview. When I did, suddenly failure stopped being something that made me stressed. Suddenly failure became about learning to be better.” - Jon Hammant “Failure has been so important to me in my journey.” - Andrew Kitley “I genuinely believe now that, for the first time in history, there’s no barriers to what you can do. You can manifest whatever you think about.” - Andrew Kitley About the guest Jon Hammant is Head of Compute for UK & Ireland at Amazon Web Services. Jon Hammant grew up with ‘severe dyslexia.’ He couldn’t spell his name until he was 11. He had poor short term memory and was even worse at sports. When he was a child his mother enrolled him into an extracurricular computer science course. His mother would regularly take him to the library to practise as they didn’t have enough money to own a computer themselves. At 12 years of age Jon received his A Level in Computer Science. He would enter the world of high finance and, in 2010, helped build the London Stock Exchange. He would go on to work high ranking positions in Deutsche Bank and Goldman Sachs. In 2015, Jon became Head of Infrastructure for Financial Markets with Standard Chartered Bank. In 2017, he became Managing Director of Accenture. Today he works for Amazon as Head of Compute in the UK & Ireland. About the host The Invisible Gift is hosted by entrepreneur and dyslexic, Andrew Kitley. With twenty years experience, Andrew Kitley has worked his way up the metaphorical and literal ladder to become Managing Director of Kitall: an engineering firm. Under Andrew's guidance, Kitall is now one of the most sought after names to complete complex engineering projects in the UK. In each episode of The Invisible Gift, Andrew seeks the advice and inspiration of a fellow trailblazer who has defied the odds to achieve the extraordinary - turning the challenge of neurodiversity into a gift. Resources https://www.kitall.co.uk/ https://www.onefineplay.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/jhammant/?originalSubdomain=uk https://aws.amazon.com/solutions/case-studies/ukir-case-studies/
May 18, 2022 · 1 hr 13 min
Empowering the neurodiverse workplace with Dr. Nassier Siabi OBE
Episode description On the first episode of season 3 of the invisible gift, Andrew meets CEO of Microlink Dr. Nasser Siabi OBE. Dr. Siabi is the CEO and founder of Microlink - an assistive technology company that aims to provide disability management and assistive technology to both the workplace and educational facilities. In the episode, Dr. Siabi explains ****how technology changed his life. Andrew and Dr. Siabi discuss how the world’s best companies have woken up to the importance of diversity and Nasser highlights why training your disabled employees will make your company more money! Top quotes “Neurodiverse people are the most creative in society. All they need to be given is the right tools and opportunity.” - Dr. Nasser Siabi “Those that have embraced diversity & inclusion and have empowered their disabled and neurodiverse employees are now the companies that are cutting edge and winning the clients.” - Dr. Nasser Siabi About the guest Dr. Siabi is the CEO and founder of Microlink - an assistive technology company that aims to provide disability management and assistive technology to both the workplace and educational facilities. Nasser Siabi was born in Iran in 1962. For the first fifteen years of Nasser’s life, he suffered from a rare chronic visual impairment that removed him from education. He would go on to received his doctorate in Computer Science Technologies & Physics and establish Microlink in 1992. Microlink’s award winning WPA service is now considered best practice and is widely used by over 27 other leading organisations in the UK and US. Nasser was awarded an OBE in 2011 for his contribution in helping over 300,000 disabled people transition from education into work. He is also a founding member of the British Assistive Technology Association (BATA) and part of the DWP Disability Employer Engagement steering group. In 2015 he received a lifetime achievement award from the National Diversity Awards (NDA) for his contribution to people with disabilities. About the host The Invisible Gift is hosted by entrepreneur and dyslexic, Andrew Kitley. With twenty years experience, Andrew Kitley has worked his way up the metaphorical and literal ladder to become Managing Director of Kitall: an engineering firm. Under Andrew's guidance, Kitall is now one of the most sought after names to complete complex engineering projects in the UK. In each episode of The Invisible Gift, Andrew seeks the advice and inspiration of a fellow trailblazer who has defied the odds to achieve the extraordinary - turning the challenge of neurodiversity into a gift. Resources https://www.kitall.co.uk/ https://www.onefineplay.com/ https://www.microlinkpc.com/
May 11, 2022 · 1 min
The Invisible Gift Season 3 Trailer
Welcome back to season 3 of The Invisible Gift - the show all about turning neurodiversity into possibility! For two seasons, Andrew has shared conversations with incredible people about how they used their neurodiversity to achieve extraordinary things. This season we wanted to change gear and focus in on the workplace. From what we learned so far, businesses are leading the change when it comes to neurodiversity but there's still a long way to go. So we wanted to speak to the business leaders, entrepreneurs, and experts leading this change to learn how neurodiversity is perceived now, what still needs to be done going forward, and whether the world of tomorrow will be truly neuro-inclusive. This season has been the best yet so please join us for season 3 of The Invisible Gift - the show all about turning neurodiversity into possibility!
Nov 18, 2021 · 1 hr 1 min
The Magic of Neuro-Diversity with Sally Gardner
Episode Description: On the final episode of season 2 of the Invisible Gift, Andrew meets acclaimed author and illustrator Sally Gardner. In the episode, Sally and Andrew have a wonderful conversation. Where Andrew hears about the chance encounter that made Sally a writer, Sally speaks powerful on the failures of the current education system calling for reform, and Andrew learns how dyslexia gave Sally her name! Top Quotes: "I never felt I could be a writer because of my dyslexia. I was too ashamed to say the truth. And the only thing that kicked me up the bum was necessity." - Sally "We create a mindset for dyslexic children early in life that hinder their development." - Andrew Kitley About the Host: The Invisible Gift is hosted by entrepreneur and dyslexic, Andrew Kitley. With twenty years experience, Andrew Kitley has worked his way up the metaphorical and literal ladder to become Managing Director of Kitall: an engineering firm. Under Andrew's guidance, Kitall is now one of the most sought after names to complete complex engineering projects in the UK. In each episode of The Invisible Gift, Andrew seeks the advice and inspiration of a fellow trailblazer who has defied the odds to achieve the extraordinary - turning the challenge of dyslexia into a gift. About the Guest: Sally Gardner is an award winning children’s author and illustrator. Her first book was published by Orion Books in 1993: The Little Nut Tree, a children's picture book that she also illustrated. Her first full-length novel was a breakthrough, as I, Coriander won the Smarties Prize in 2005. Her Young Adult novel, The Double Shadow, was published in 2011 also to critical acclaim. Her novel, ‘Maggot Moon’ (Hot Key Books 2012), won both the Costa Children’s Book Prize and the Carnegie Medal 2013. Sally Gardner has written over 20 books, she has sold over 2 million books in the UK, and her work has been translated into more than 22 languages. Resources: https://www.sallygardner.net/ https://www.kitall.co.uk/ https://www.onefineplay.com/
Nov 11, 2021 · 1 hr
Producing Television & Fighting for Diversity with Carrie Britton
Episode Description: On this week's episode of The Invisible Gift, Andrew meets award winning producer and BBC's Head of Talent for Comedy - Carrie Britton. On the show, Andrew and Carrie delve into the question of self declaring as neuro-diverse in the workplace, Andrew and Carrie discuss the ineffectiveness of the education system for dyslexics, and Carrie illuminates for Andrew why the unique architecture of her brain has aided her in the art of storytelling. Top Quotes: "Difference is at a premium now." - Carrie Britton "Because there is a lack of neuro-diversity in parliament they don't prioritise issues relating to it. That's the very essence and purpose behind having diversity in all forms in every organisation." - Andrew "If you don't stand up for who you are and what you believe in then nothing is going to change. The more people embrace themselves the more rich, diverse, and aware society becomes." - Carrie "Part of the problem with being neuro-diverse is thinking you're alone. And we're not." - Andrew About the Host: The Invisible Gift is hosted by entrepreneur and dyslexic, Andrew Kitley. With twenty years experience, Andrew Kitley has worked his way up the metaphorical and literal ladder to become Managing Director of Kitall: an engineering firm. Under Andrew's guidance, Kitall is now one of the most sought after names to complete complex engineering projects in the UK. In each episode of The Invisible Gift, Andrew seeks the advice and inspiration of a fellow trailblazer who has defied the odds to achieve the extraordinary - turning the challenge of dyslexia into a gift. About the Guest: Carrie Britton is an award winning producer and director, whose credits include ‘Embarrassing Bodies’ and Who Do You Think You Are’ and is the current Scripted Talent Executive for Drama and Comedy at the BBC. Carries has also directed a number of films including the documentary series ‘Cutting Edge’, BBC’s ‘Modern Times’ and ‘Inside Story’. She’s worked for BBC Comedy, BBC Factual, Cineflix, Nutopia, IWC Media Hat Trick and other leading Indies. She’s a member of the Royal Television Society's Futures Committee producing regular industry events, and of the Edinburgh Television Festival Talent Committee. She sits on the Advisory Board of the London Film Academy. Resources: For Carrie’s career highlights and contact visit her LinkedIn here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carrie-britton-ab419213/?originalSubdomain=uk https://www.kitall.co.uk/ https://www.onefineplay.com/
Nov 4, 2021 · 1 hr 8 min
Specialist Dyslexia Teaching with Michelle Catterson
Episode Description: On this episode of The Invisible Gift, Andrew sits down with executive headteacher of dyslexia specialist school, Moon Hall Reigate. In the show, Michelle regales the fascinating story of Moon Hall's inception, Andrew learns more about the groundbreaking teaching techniques Moon Hall has developed, and Andrew and Michelle discuss why the education minister needs a background in education. Top Quotes: "Education in the workplace is needed because people assume, wrongly of course, that dyslexic people are not going to achieve or they're not intelligent but that's not they case. They just need information delivered in a different way." - Michelle "We need passion to change the education system and the problem with an education minister that has no background in teaching is that their passion is for politics, and not education." - Andrew About the Host: The Invisible Gift is hosted by entrepreneur and dyslexic, Andrew Kitley. With twenty years experience, Andrew Kitley has worked his way up the metaphorical and literal ladder to become Managing Director of Kitall: an engineering firm. Under Andrew's guidance, Kitall is now one of the most sought after names to complete complex engineering projects in the UK. In each episode of The Invisible Gift, Andrew seeks the advice and inspiration of a fellow trailblazer who has defied the odds to achieve the extraordinary - turning the challenge of dyslexia into a gift. About the Guest: Michelle joined Moon Hall in 2017 as deputy head of academic before quickly working her way up to become Executive Head Teacher in 2019. Established in 1985, Moon Hall are a specialist school for dyslexic children in Years 3-11. At the school, all children participate on a level playing field with their dyslexic peers. Children are taught strategies to enable them to understand and overcome barriers to learning and gain the confidence to be independent, positive learners. In 2020, she became a board trustee member of the British Dyslexia Association. Resources: https://www.moonhallschoolreigate.co.uk/ https://www.kitall.co.uk/ https://www.onefineplay.com/
Oct 28, 2021 · 1 hr
Comedy & Neuro-diversity with Michael Fabbri
Episode Description: On this episode of The Invisible Gift, Andrew is joined by comedian and writer Michael Fabbri. In the episode, Michael reveals the inside production secrets of your favourite comedy panel shows, Andrew and Michael discuss why dyslexics naturally become leaders, and Michael explains why his friend posted a dead cat through a letter box. Top Quotes: "Because of the barriers and the lack of opportunity dyslexics and neuro-diverse people have, they are forced to lead. They have to become leaders. They have to be in charge." - Michael "Kids who are dyslexic will always feel like crap in the current education system because that environment wasn't made for them." - Andrew About the Host: The Invisible Gift is hosted by entrepreneur and dyslexic, Andrew Kitley. With twenty years experience, Andrew Kitley has worked his way up the metaphorical and literal ladder to become Managing Director of Kitall: an engineering firm. Under Andrew's guidance, Kitall is now one of the most sought after names to complete complex engineering projects in the UK. In each episode of The Invisible Gift, Andrew seeks the advice and inspiration of a fellow trailblazer who has defied the odds to achieve the extraordinary - turning the challenge of dyslexia into a gift. About the Guest: Michael Fabbri is a comedian and writer who performed and produced the BBC radio series ‘The Dyslexicon’. Michael is an English stand-up comedian and writer based in Brighton and has been performing stand-up comedy since the early 2000s. Michael is a frequent contributor to panel television shows like Mock the Week & Stand UP for the Week - regularly submitting jokes aired to broadcast. In 2003 he reached the final of So You Think You're Funny on Channel 4. As well as performing all over the world, he has also performed in several solo shows at festivals such as the Edinburgh Fringe festival. Michael was nominated for Best Club Comic at 2012 Chortle Awards. Resources: https://twitter.com/michaelsfabbri?lang=en https://www.michaelfabbri.com/ https://www.kitall.co.uk/ https://www.onefineplay.com/
Oct 21, 2021 · 56 min
Creating Comic Books with Rossie Stone
Episode Description: This week on the The Invisible Gift, Andrew chats with the CEO and founder of Dekko Comics, Rossie Stone. In the episode, Rossie explains the origins of his company - and why his struggles with dyslexia led to him founding it. Andrew and Rossie talk through the problems with labels, Rossie highlights the importance of a strong support network for dyslexics and the boys explain why the world of tomorrow will be made for the neuro-diverse. Top Quotes: "I haven't got a problem with the way school teaches. I've got a problem with the fact it only teaches in one way." - Rossie "Because as a group of people we are so used to failure we have learned what are values are. The concept of leaving a company to go somewhere else where you are better understood is easy for us to comprehend." - Andrew "The world doesn't fit into the box it used to and that's great for us, for the neuro-diverse, because we are out of the box thinkers." - Andrew About the Host: The Invisible Gift is hosted by entrepreneur and dyslexic, Andrew Kitley. With twenty years experience, Andrew Kitley has worked his way up the metaphorical and literal ladder to become Managing Director of Kitall: an engineering firm. Under Andrew's guidance, Kitall is now one of the most sought after names to complete complex engineering projects in the UK. In each episode of The Invisible Gift, Andrew seeks the advice and inspiration of a fellow trailblazer who has defied the odds to achieve the extraordinary - turning the challenge of dyslexia into a gift. About the Guest: Rossie Stone is an illustrator, artist, and founder of Dekko Comics. Dekko Comics is an educational comic book company, that aims to revolutionise teaching for dyslexic and neurodiverse students. Rossie struggled in school at the ‘academic subjects’ but thrived in acting, art, and english - this inspired to find alternative methods for learning such as making his own comic books. Rossie runs comic book workshops for young people who want to enter the medium. Rossie has also spoken at TedX on multiple occasions about his experiences with dyslexia. Rossie is also an ambassador for Dyslexia Scotland. Resources: https://dekkocomics.com/ https://www.kitall.co.uk/ https://www.onefineplay.com/
Oct 14, 2021 · 1 hr
Becoming the World's Greatest Microscopic Artist with Willard Wigan MBE
Episode Description: On this week's episode of The Invisible Gift, Andrew sits down with famed micro artist and Guinness world record holder Willard Wigan MBE. Willard takes Andrew through his journey to becoming the greatest micro artist in the world, speaking powerfully about the autism and dyslexia that helped define his creativity and vision on life, and we discover what the Queen said when she saw his work. Top Quotes: "I'll tell you what brought it home for me. The Queen, when she saw my work, said she's never had something so small that's meant so much." - Willard "Sometimes in life we can feel like we're a diamond in a dustbin but whatever you put your mind to you can achieve." - Willard About the host: The Invisible Gift is hosted by entrepreneur and dyslexic, Andrew Kitley. With twenty years experience, Andrew Kitley has worked his way up the metaphorical and literal ladder to become Managing Director of Kitall: an engineering firm. Under Andrew's guidance, Kitall is now one of the most sought after names to complete complex engineering projects in the UK. In each episode of The Invisible Gift, Andrew seeks the advice and inspiration of a fellow trailblazer who has defied the odds to achieve the extraordinary - turning the challenge of dyslexia into a gift. About the guest: Dr. Willard Wigan MBE is an artist and sculptor who specialises in microscopic art. Wigan worked in a factory for two decades before making a name for himself. During that time, he sculpted at night, working on his miniatures. Willard’s work would get finally noticed by the public after carving a bust of, ironically, William Shakespeare. This would be the catalyst for starting his own workshop in a shopping centre. He has been the subject of an award-winning TV documentary from Channel 4, been a guest on chat shows, and his work is exhibited across the World within the Ripley’s Believe it or Not exhibitions. Willard has achieved two Guinness World Records for the smallest sculptures ever created entirely by human hand. Willard was awarded an MBE by Queen Elizabeth II in 2007 & was awarded a doctorate in 2018 as recognition to his contribution to the arts. Some of Willard’s famous admirers include David Lloyd, who owns a 70-piece collection insured for more than 20 million dollars; Sir Elton John; Magicians Sigfried and Roy; and Prince Charles of Wales. Resources: https://www.willardwiganmbe.com/ https://www.kitall.co.uk/ https://www.onefineplay.com/