How I Came Out Of The Box - Jan Okenden

In this insightful episode of Beyond the Ordinary, Mandy Nicholson explores how creatives and neurodivergent individuals naturally think and communicate through stories. Mandy reflects on the power of storytelling to connect, inspire, and convey complex ideas in a relatable and engaging way.

The episode also features Jan Okenden reading her chapter, How I Came Out the Box. Jan shares her personal journey of self-discovery, embracing her differences, and realizing that she was never meant to fit into a conventional mold. Through storytelling, Jan takes listeners on a journey of childhood experiences, challenges, and ultimately, self-acceptance.

Together, Mandy and Jan remind us that storytelling is more than just a communication tool—it’s a way to make sense of the world, share emotions, and build meaningful connections.

Key Takeaways:

• Why storytelling is a natural strength for creatives and neurodivergent individuals.
• How thinking in stories helps process emotions and experiences.
• Jan’s journey of embracing individuality and stepping away from societal expectations.
• The impact of narratives in personal and professional growth.
• How to harness storytelling as a tool for creativity, connection, and empowerment.

Quotes from the Episode:

• “After nourishment, shelter, and companionship, stories are the thing we need most in the world.” – Philip Pullman
• “Your differences are your superpower—embrace them.” – Jan Okenden
• “Creativity thrives in storytelling, and stories build bridges between people.” – Mandy Nicholson

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Episodes were recorded in the authors own homes on various devices.
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