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Embracing Neurodivergence: A Conversation with Rebecca Engle

By Rosabel V. Zohfeld

In a powerful and profoundly insightful episode of the Life Unscripted Podcast, I sat down with Rebecca Engle, an author, teacher, and passionate advocate for neurodivergent individuals. Her journey from a non-speaking child to a voice for thousands is not just remarkable—it’s revolutionary.

Rebecca was diagnosed with autism at the age of three. At the time, she only spoke 22 words by age five and was told by professionals that she would never live independently. Today, she is an educator, author of Step Into My Shoes, and a member of the Autism Community Networks Advisory Board. She is also preparing to release her second book, Tangled and Silent Norms, a resource designed to break down barriers in understanding the neurodivergent experience.

A Story of Resilience and Advocacy

Rebecca shared how traditional educational environments often rewarded masking—suppressing natural behaviors to fit into rigid systems—while punishing authenticity. Her early experiences left her feeling unseen and unheard, but with the support of her mother and a few key teachers, she learned to self-advocate and push against the limiting beliefs society tried to place on her.

“Don’t let people peel your stickers off,” Rebecca said.
She uses the metaphor of a Rubik’s cube to describe the beauty of complexity—and the importance of solving, not shortcutting, life’s unique puzzles.

From the Classroom to the Conference Stage

Rebecca’s advocacy began not in a boardroom but on the playground—as a young girl, offering advice to special ed teachers. Since then, she’s become a powerful voice in the autism and neurodivergent community. Her first book, Step Into My Shoes, gives readers a firsthand look into the everyday experience of a special education student. Readers from all walks of life have found themselves reflected in its pages.

Her upcoming release, Tangled and Silent Norms, arrives May 1 and is designed for adults—especially parents and educators—who want a clearer, more compassionate understanding of neurodivergence. It’s short, approachable, and grounded in research, to inspire further learning and empathy.

What We Can All Do

Rebecca offered practical, heartfelt advice on how society can move beyond mere “awareness” into true celebration of neurodivergence:

• Assume competence. Everyone processes and communicates differently—start by believing in their abilities.

• Honor all forms of communication. Speech is not the only way people express themselves.

• Redefine success. Let go of outdated, one-size-fits-all metrics.

• Respect sensory needs. Fidgets, headphones, movement, and non-traditional classroom behaviors are not distractions but tools.

• Create connection over control. Building trust matters more than enforcing compliance.

Connect with Rebecca

Rebecca is committed to helping others better understand and support neurodivergent individuals. You can connect with her through:

• Instagram: @StitchesStanzas and @RE02.20

• Facebook: Becca Engle

• LinkedIn: Rebecca Engle

• Books on Amazon: Step Into My Shoes (new link coming soon for Tangled and Silent Norms)

She’ll also be speaking at the Hustle + Socialize Conference this summer and presenting (in person and virtually) in Austin on June 20 about inclusive education strategies for autistic children.

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Let’s Keep the Conversation Going

If Rebecca’s story resonated with you, I invite you to subscribe to the Life Unscripted Podcast. We explore the voices and stories that often go unheard. Every share, review, and listen helps us amplify these essential conversations.

💬 What stood out most to you from Rebecca’s story? Let’s talk in the comments.
🎧 Listen to this episode and more wherever you get your podcasts.
📩 Know someone navigating neurodivergence? Send this post their way—they might need to hear it today.

With gratitude,
Rosabel

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