In this episode, we’re thrilled to welcome the remarkable Christina Schmidt (@freetobeme.speech), a Multicultural, Multi-dialectal Black AuDHD Woman; dedicated advocate for racial, cultural, and disability justice; and Speech Pathologist.

Christina shares her passions and joys in music, DJing, movement as medicine, neurodiversity education, and communication differences, and advocacy for racial, cultural, and disability justice. She reflects on her journey of embracing the intersection of neurodiversity and cultural identity at her private practice, Free to Be Me Speech Therapy, where she proudly integrates every aspect of herself into her work.

Drawing from her years of professional practice and personal development, Christina provides valuable insights into the nuances of language and communication. We explore the rich history and cultural significance of African American dialect, the distinctions between communication and language, and how these factors shape the experiences of Black, Indigenous, and Communities of Colour.

She highlights the impact of systemic racism and biases in technology on these experiences, emphasizing the need for greater awareness and understanding. Reflecting on her own experiences with code-switching for safety, Christina underscores the imperative necessity for inclusivity and cultural awareness in medical care for marginalized populations. To support this effort, she offers an invaluable resource: the Cultural Competency Check, designed to help individuals and allied health professionals deepen their understanding of these critical issues.
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★ Episode Chapters:

• Acknowledgment of the Traditional Custodians of the Land and Country 0:06
• Introduction and Welcome 1:02
• Christina’s Personal Background and Today’s Highlights 2:29
• Christina’s Personal Interests and Professional Life 5:51
• Navigating Intersections of Multicultural and Neurodivergent Identity 8:54
• Understanding Neurodivergence 13:50
• Integrating All Aspects of Self into Work 19:19
• Resources and Aligning with Community 20:53
• Language, Communication, and Cultural Identity 28:11
• Intersectional Framework in Allied Health Professions 40:35
• Systemic Racism and AI Bias 49:16
• Code Switching and Authenticity 56:59
• Divinely Designed 1:00:17
• Connect with Christina 1:02:18


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🟧 Free to Be Me Speech Therapy:

As a multicultural and multidialectal Black AuDHDer, Christina blends her professional expertise with lived experience to create high-quality, trustworthy resources. Grounded in neurodiversity-affirming care, intersectionality, disability and racial justice, and inclusivity, Christina brings over seven years of clinical experience and a holistic approach to her speech therapy practice, enhanced by extensive ongoing professional development. Through Free to Be Me Speech Therapy, Christina is committed to empowering individuals to be seen, heard, and embrace their authentic selves.

❇️ Connect with Christina:

Instagram: @freetobeme.speech

Facebook: Free to Be Me Speech Therapy

Free to Be Me Speech Therapy Website:

​https://www.freetobemespeech.com.au/

​Check out Christina’s Linktree to keep up to date with the latest: ✨✨

​https://linktr.ee/FreetoBeMe.speech?utm_source=linktree_profile_share


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🟡 Advocates, Creators and Professionals mentioned in the episode:

• @khadija_gbla @khadijaplayvillage

• @chenaimupotsa @rainbowmuse

• @ine_dambo

• @asiatu.coach @weareautastic

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🟡 Resources mentioned in the episode:

➡️ Christina’s Free Downloadable Cultural Competency Check: Resource Chart: Astarting point to increasing cultural competency and a practical resource for SLPs and Teachers.

https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Improving-Cultural-Competency-A-Practical-Resource-for-SLPs-and-Teachers-12056756

Cultural Competency Check: It’s Time for Change! is a practical and essential resource designed for speech pathologists, allied health professionals and teachers but can be used by anyone. This guide will help you understand and embrace diverse cultural perspectives, recognise implicit biases and make meaningful changes in your practice.

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★ Autism While Black — by Autastic

• The “Autism While Black” six-week program for Black Autistic adults, with this series specifically focused on Women. Christina participated in this meaningfully curated initiative, which included reflective activities, uncovering masking experiences, and fostering space for healing and exploring joy.

• Autastic is a community and a comprehensive resource hub specifically designed for late-identified Autistic BIPOC adults and allies founded and facilitated by Diane J. Wright.

Instagram: @weareautastic

Linktree: https://linktr.ee/WeAreAutastic

Website: https://www.autastic.com
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✨ Connect with us:

Instagram: @divine.design.australia
★ Interested in joining us on an episode? We welcome your enquiries. Please email us at [email protected]