Welcome to episode #103! We’re thrilled to be joined by Yenn Purkis today.
Yenn Purkis is an autistic, asexual, and non-binary advocate, author, and speaker with a diagnosis of schizophrenia. They’ve written 18 published books and contributed to many more. Known for their honest storytelling and passion for neurodivergent visibility, Yenn has delivered two TEDx talks and currently serves as Deputy CEO of the Disability Leadership Institute. Based in Canberra, Australia, Yenn shares their life with their beloved tortoiseshell cat, Sunflower, and is a self-proclaimed Star Trek “Borg” superfan. They are fiercely committed to authenticity, community, and using their voice to make space for others.
Welcome to the show, Yenn!
Questions
JN: Can you tell us about your experience with neurodiversity?
– Diagnosed with autism in prison at age 20 in 1994
– Initially rejected the label, masking heavily for survival
– Took 10 years to fully embrace the diagnosis
JN: What challenges did you face?
– Internalized stigma made acceptance hard
– Preferred to say “I’ve been in prison” over “I’m autistic”
– Struggled with self-worth and masking in extreme environments
JN: What changes have come post-diagnosis?
– Found mentorship and community through advocate Polly Samuel
– Began to embrace autistic pride and write books
– Diagnosis opened the door to advocacy and self-acceptance
JN: What neuroexceptional strengths are you leaning into now?
– Working 9 jobs across advocacy, writing, and public speaking
– Finds joy and stimulation in juggling multiple roles
– Uses structure, discipline, and passion to stay productive
JC: What "work" projects are you concentrating on?
– Deputy CEO at Disability Leadership Institute
– Working with Rebus Theatre, La Trobe University, University of Wollongong
– Running the “Autism and Adulthood” course at My Life, My Decisions
JN: How about the rest of the time? What do you enjoy doing in your off time?
– Watching TV (Borg obsession, Star Trek, Breaking Bad, reality police shows)
– Blogging, writing memes, cuddling with Sunflower the cat
– Catching up with friends and writing personal essays
JC: Productivity tips – What do you do to optimise productivity?
– Writes with structure: headings/subheadings first
– Doesn’t wait for inspiration—focuses on discipline
– Uses proactive mindset: “If I don’t want to do it, I do it first”
– Doesn’t procrastinate—teaches herself to act
JC: What is some unhelpful productivity advice that doesn’t work for you?
– Self-taught; hasn’t relied on traditional productivity models
– Emphasizes doing over theorizing
JN: What does your morning routine look like and how has it evolved over time?
– Wakes up to cat Sunflower demanding breakfast
– One coffee, big breakfast, then TV buffer before work
– Loves Star Trek (especially Borg) and quirky sci-fi routines
JC: How is your sleep? How do you switch off at night?
– No fixed bedtime; varies with schedule
– Often calls parents, watches TV, does light work in the evening
– Takes medication at night to manage health
JN: Where can people connect with you or find your work?
–LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yenn-purkis-469219b9
–Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/yennpurkisbooks
–Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yennpurkis5
–Threads: https://www.threads.com/@yennpurkis5
–Email: funnyauthorperson@gmail.com
–Books: https://yennpurkis.com/books/
–TEDx talks: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gSC1P49jOec
JC: Final words or asks for the audience?
– Reach out and connect
– Keep questioning assumptions
– Follow what brings you joy—even if it’s 9 jobs and a Borg duck
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Email: jeremy@focusbear.io
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