Peace, Love, and Gigs: A Founder's Journey to Self-Acceptance

What happens when a successful entrepreneur discovers, at 57, that he's been living with ADHD his entire life? In this episode of The Neurodiversity Voices Podcast, Paul Cruz sits down with Mark Steiner, founder of GigSalad, to explore an extraordinary journey through entrepreneurship, late-diagnosed ADHD, leadership, and personal transformation. From working on the set of When Harry Met Sally to building an event marketplace serving performers and event organizers across North America, Mark's professional journey has been anything but conventional. But behind the business success is a deeply personal story. Mark shares how his ADHD diagnosis helped him better understand decades of experiences, how emotional intelligence shaped his approach to leadership, and why creating a workplace where people feel valued has always mattered to him. The conversation also explores his experience as an adoptee, his evolving relationship with self-worth, and the meaning behind his personal philosophy: Peace, Love, and Gigs. Together, Paul and Mark consider what it means to lead with empathy, embrace different ways of thinking, and discover a more authentic sense of self. In this conversation: Discovering ADHD later in life Creativity, entrepreneurship, and unconventional career paths Emotional intelligence and human-centred leadership Building workplaces that value Neurodiversity Adoption, identity, and belonging Self-acceptance, purpose, and personal growth Connect with Mark: www.thinkupon.com www.gigsalad.com Because understanding Neurodiversity isn't just about recognizing differences. It's also about creating the conditions in which people can understand themselves, contribute meaningfully, and thrive. Join Us at Make Change Market — November 20, 2026! The Neurodiversity Voices Podcast is excited to announce that we'll be returning to Make Change Market, hosted by Employ to Empower! Join us for an evening of community connection, creativity, entrepreneurship, and meaningful conversations. 📅 Friday, November 20, 2026 🕔 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM (Pacific Time) 📍 Heritage Hall, 3102 Main Street, Vancouver, BC 🎟️ Free Admission This year's theme, Together We Build, celebrates the power of community, inclusion, and supporting entrepreneurs who face systemic barriers. Stop by The Neurodiversity Voices Podcast booth, say hello, and share your perspective on what Neurodiversity means to you. We're looking forward to connecting with listeners, meeting new people, and continuing important conversations about lived experiences, accessibility, and inclusion. Let's build empowered communities — together! 🔗 Event details and free RSVP: https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/make-change-market-tickets-2003380960382 Now on Apple TV 4K! Our video podcast episodes are available to watch through Apple Podcasts on supported Apple TV 4K devices across Canada and internationally. We are also available to watch on Apple Podcasts on your phone or the web player. Watch now! Join us! Hosted by Paul Cruz. Join our Patreon Community: https://www.patreon.com/14218572/join Website: www.neurodiversityvoices.com LinkedIn • YouTube: @neurodiversityvoicespodcast Disclaimer: This podcast shares educational content and personal perspectives and is not a substitute for professional, medical, psychological, legal, or other advice. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.