Today, we caught up with Stephanie Scheller from Grow Disrupt to discuss the measures she’s implemented to tackle the mountain of making educational events ADHD friendly!
The Scent
One of the steps we’ve taken that gets the most intrigued looks is our custom event scent. Stephanie is frequently asked "where can I get some?” and we’re proud to say that the only way to get your hands on this scent is joining us at a Grow Disrupt event! We collaborated with a Scent-ologist to create a scent that would both energize and help people focus in the room. Take-home quantities are provided to participants!
Why was Stephanie so excited about having a custom scent for our events? As she shares, it sets a baseline sensory trigger. Throughout the year, when these entrepreneurs are looking to induce hyperfocus or motivation throughout the year, they can use the spray to trigger the same state of focus they had at the event.
The Layout
We’ve learned that, to help cut down on distractions, the room layout is crucial. Limiting the number of chairs and tables means no one has to twist backwards to see the stage, or find their space invaded by their neighbor. It allows our guests to stretch out their note-taking tools the way that makes sense for them!
The Goods
We’re incredibly intentional about selecting tactile stimulations for the tables and swag bags. Games, fidget toys, and more. These help keep guests focused during the breaks, and while speakers are onstage.
The Speakers
Stephanie emphasizes that we are meticulous in selecting event speakers to ensure they are not delivering material that has been repeated numerous times. One of the major challenges for people with ADHD is that their minds can process information rapidly; as a result, they usually have the whole sentence formulated in their brains before the speaker has even finished saying it. When these individuals come across something that they have heard before, they tend to zone out and it can be hard to get them back in the moment once they have disengaged.
Stephanie collaborates closely with the speakers to discuss the way in which the material will be presented. She also provides them with documents and exercises to facilitate their preparation.
The Snacks
Grow Disrupt is also committed to providing snacks that are known to help with concentration. Low sugar, caffeine, fiber and protein are the focus for everything handed out at our events. For example, did you know that lactic acid can be beneficial for people with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)? And while the most common source of lactic acid is build-up in muscles post-workout, it’s also possible to find in select soft-drinks. We’re currently searching for a way to add it to our custom tea blends as well!
Conclusion
There is a lot of effort put into their events to ensure their events are ideal for those with ADHD. Stephanie personally believes that these individuals are making a massive difference in the world. Though they are often misunderstood and misrepresented, she believes that ADHD is actually an incredible superpower.
Our events give these entrepreneurs the chance to see that for themselves.