Why Devangana Mishra believes every introvert can be a leader

Devangana Mishra wasn’t supposed to be here. Not on this podcast, not running a foundation for autism awareness.

She was the quiet kid, the one hiding behind her mother at parties, scribbling stories while the world moved around her. But something in her refused to accept the way things were, especially when it came to children on the autism spectrum.

In this inspiring conversation with Smitha Murthy, Devangana traces her journey from a childhood of imaginary worlds to the trenches of low-income schools in Mumbai, where she fights for kids who are often written off. She talks about the anxiety of being an introvert in a world that rewards loudness, the depression that nearly derailed her, and the stubborn belief that we can do better.

We discuss

• The impact of growing up watching her psychologist mother tutor autistic children in their home
• How boarding school and moving to New York forced her to “expand her definition of enough.”
• Her fight for autism and children with autism from low-income groups
• How she battled depression
• How spinach smoothies, swimming, and poetry became her weapons

Devangana’s bio

Devangana Mishra is a writer and poet whose works have captivated readers globally with two celebrated poetry collections, Desierto Florido (2021) and 26, Kamala Nehru Ridge, Civil Lines Delhi (2023) to her name.

Devangana is also the founder of Brain Bristle, a foundation dedicated to autism awareness and promoting inclusivity in Mumbai’s low-income schools. Through her creative work and brand partnerships she actively raises funds to support these schools in their pursuit of leadership and inclusivity.

Connect with Devangana

Instagram | Devangana Mishra | Brain Bristle

QOTD

How have you managed your introverted nature? Write in and tell us – podcast@myndstories.com

Credits

• Smitha Murthy, host and episode planner.
• Ravi Kumar, sound designer and editor.

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*Disclaimer – The content in this podcast is only for educational purposes. It cannot be considered as individual therapy advice or counseling and is not to be taken as medical or mental health advice.