Creating workplaces that work for all to thrive with Tara May

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

Om Podcasten

What does it take to create experiences customers love, craft campaigns that captivate, and drive measurable results? Insights Unlocked features candid conversations with the builders, creators, and innovators driving some of the world’s most impactful digital transformations. Tailored for marketing, product, UX and CX leaders, each episode delivers actionable insights to help you create customer-first strategies and stay ahead in today’s competitive landscape. Each episode is about 30 minutes long. From optimizing product launches to leveraging AI for smarter workflows, Insights Unlocked is your go-to resource for designing experiences that resonate, drive loyalty, and achieve business results. Guests include influential leaders like Brian Solis, April Dunford, Kate Towsey, Jacob Nielsen, Teresa Torres, and Judd Antin among others, offering their expertise in CX, UX, and innovation. The podcast also highlights strategies and success stories from leading brands such as Verizon, Signet Jewelers, Figma, Microsoft, Tesco Bank, and more. UserTesting leaders and industry experts join as guest hosts, alongside show producer Nathan Isaacs, award-winning journalist and Senior Manager of Content Production at UserTesting. Brought to you by UserTesting, the leader in human insights and proactive customer experience strategies, Insights Unlocked empowers CMOs and marketing teams to craft experiences that drive growth, loyalty, and impact. Listen and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. Show notes, curated clips and more at usertesting.com/podcast.