What if the “weird kid who wouldn’t shut up” was never broken — only misunderstood?
In this episode of The Inspired Choice Podcast, Dr. Caroline Biesalski sits down with Dr. Gary Coulton — former academic, executive coach, and author of Demons to Champions: How I Fell in Love with My Neurodivergent Maverick Mind.
At 65, Gary received an autism and ADHD diagnosis that reframed six decades of masking, anxiety, and self-doubt. Rather than treating it as a late arrival, he turned it into a doorway — one that led him into what he now calls leaving a Positive Echo: a conscious, lasting imprint on the world through daily choices, relationships, and work.
Together, Caroline and Gary explore:
• What it means to discover your neurodivergent identity in later life
• How to conquer the internal saboteurs that keep us small
• Why the “maverick mind” is a cognitive advantage, not a flaw
• The practice of conscious aging and finding purpose after a long career
• Building Adaptive Intelligence — in leadership, business, and life
Dr. Coulton is the founder of Adaptive Intelligence Consulting, a sought-after public speaker with more than 40 years of experience, and is finalizing three new books for 2026 — including Wisdomize and a poetry collection titled Hoofprints of a Maverick Mind.
This is a conversation about courage, late becoming, and the quiet power of choosing to be fully yourself — at any age.
Being. Becoming. Beyond.
Connect with Dr. Gary Coulton:
Links
Substack – The Positive Echo – https://garycoulton.substack.com
LinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/in/garycoultonaic
Author Website – https://garycoulton.co.uk
Gary’s Books
Wisdomize – See Clearly. Decide Wisely. Live Fully - https://mybook.to/wisdomize
Wisdomize is a concise, practical guide for reflective adults who want to access their innate wisdom, think more clearly, and live with greater clarity, purpose and integrity.
“A self-help book for people who hate being told what to do”.
Available for sale from 15th October 2026.
What people are saying about Wisdomize
“What I really like about Wisdomize is that it's not just another book telling you how to improve yourself. It actually gives you practical tools and exercises to help you reflect, make better decisions and take ownership of your own personal development.
Owen Williams Co-Founder of Six Red Squares
Demons to Champions – How I fell in love with my neurodivergent maverick mind - https://mybook.to/demonstochampions
What people are saying about Demons to Champions
“This is a book for the world’s misfits, offering a compassionate reflection of our true selves. A heartfelt invitation to fall in love with our unique minds. Gary’s story is a testament to the resilience and strength of embracing one’s true self.
“It’s a book that’s going to stay with me for a long time. The floating dream witnessing your own birth was also a wow moment - I keep thinking about it. I couldn't put it down - a compelling read, a beautifully written book which made me laugh and cry.”
Susannah Shepherd
Connect with Dr. Caroline Biesalski:
🎙️ The Inspired Choice Podcast — Top 2.5% globally
🌱 The Inspired Choice Foundation
📍 Lisbon
Website: www.inspiredchoice.today
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