Tom Natt Provides us with Lessons in Leadership

Unmasking Success : Neurodiversity, Leadership & Authenticity

We’re delighted to share the latest episode of our Lessons in Leadership interview series, featuring a thought-provoking conversation with Tom Natt, Director at Third Way Digital, technologist, coach, and passionate advocate for neurodiversity in the workplace.

In this episode, Tom shares his personal journey following a later-life ADHD and autism diagnosis, reflecting on what it means to discover, and finally understand your own neurodivergence midway through a successful career in technology.

Throughout the conversation, Tom discusses his early days as a software developer, his transition into technical leadership during the pressures of the COVID-19 pandemic, and the importance of community, mentorship and creating opportunities for others. He also explores the realities of masking, perfectionism and imposter syndrome, and how the very traits that can feel challenging in the workplace often become strengths in leadership, problem-solving and innovation.

Together, we explore:

• Tom’s journey to receiving a later-life ADHD and autism diagnosis, and how it reshaped his understanding of himself, his career and his leadership style.
• The impact of masking and perfectionism, and why authenticity is essential for both personal wellbeing and effective leadership.
• How neurodivergent strengths such as hyper-focus, pattern recognition and different ways of thinking can become powerful leadership advantages.
• Practical advice for creating psychologically safe, inclusive workplaces where people can thrive as their authentic selves.
• Why great leaders don’t just climb the ladder, they build opportunities and pathways for the people who come next.

This conversation is an insightful watch for leaders, hiring managers and anyone passionate about creating more inclusive workplaces. It challenges assumptions about what successful leadership looks like while highlighting the value that diverse perspectives bring to teams, organisations and the wider technology community.

Watch the full interview above to hear Tom’s inspiring story and discover his view point into authentic leadership, neurodiversity and building environments where everyone has the opportunity to succeed.