The Untapped Potential of Neurodiversity in the Kitchen with Max Simpson

On Episode 101 of World on a Plate, Ragnar speaks with Max Simpson, a trailblazer in neurodiversity and inclusion, to discuss the pivotal role of neurodivergent individuals in enriching and diversifying the hospitality industry. Hear more on The Untapped Potential of Neurodiversity in the Kitchen.

Drawing from over 15 years of experience, Max shares transformative strategies and success stories, particularly within the hospitality sector, emphasizing practical steps organizations can take toward more inclusive employment practices. They discuss three strategic pillars: providing access to education, modeling inclusive social businesses, and empowering employers to be inclusive.

Hear how Max and their community at Steps‘ are promoting neurodivergent inclusion in Asia through these strategic pillars. Their work provides a practical blueprint for sustainable and inclusive business practices that can be adapted worldwide, and challenges the industry to rethink its approach to staffing. 

Tune in and LEARN:

1. Understanding Neurodiversity: Discover how understanding neurodiversity is a central part of a much-needed culture shift in the culinary and hospitality industry, and how staffing approaches can foster a more innovative and diverse workforce. 
2. Pathways to Inclusion: Learn practical steps to integrate neurodivergent individuals and their value-adding potential, and how this can significantly enhance team cohesion, morale, and overall business performance. 
3. Learning from Leaders: Gain insights from hospitality leaders on the benefits and challenges of pioneering neurodivergent employment, providing valuable lessons for smaller businesses. 
4. Empowering Impact: Hear how advocating for inclusive employment not only benefits neurodivergent individuals but also promotes economic and social empowerment, contributing to a more sustainable workforce.

Resources

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About Max Simpson

We believe in both the untapped potential the neurodivergent community can bring to the workplace as well as
the return on investment diverse, equitable, and inclusive practices bring to all stakeholders. We are committed to empowering those who recognize the value of inclusion.

Max Simpson, through their leadership at Steps, is pioneering efforts across Asia to integrate neurodivergent individuals into the workforce, particularly in the hospitality industry. By advocating for neurodiversity, providing access to education, modeling inclusive social businesses, and empowering employers with knowledge and skills, Step’s work is creating significant, positive societal shifts.

Max has been working with the neurodivergent community for over 15 years, and the longer they work alongside this community, the more evidence they have that they are value-adding employees to any business.

Max has demonstrated a proven track record in the inclusion space from establishing 3 vocational training centers, modeling 11 inclusive and sustainable social businesses, and delivering essential consultancy services to organizations seeking enhanced inclusivity. Earlier this year, Max inaugurated a research center dedicated to advancing knowledge in this domain. A fervent advocate for the business case for disability and neuro-inclusion, Max extends an invitation to potential partners to collaborate on a shared mission of fostering an inclusive society.

In 2019, Max was listed as one of the top 50 young leaders shaping the future of Asia. Steps was honored with the International Provision of the Year Award by the prestigious National Association for Special Educational Needs (UK). Max also sits on the board of the Special Education Network and Inclusion Association, and the Diversity Equity and Inclusion committees for both the American and British Chambers of Commerce in Thailand.

There is a global need for a change in employment outcomes, and Max founded Steps in 2016 to meet that need.

Acknowledgments

Special thanks to Max Simpson for joining us.

World on a Plate is supported by Nestlé Professional and our podcast sponsors.