The Neurodiversity Voices Podcast

Paul Cruz
  • 3.0 (1)
  • PERSONAL JOURNALS
  • UPDATED SEMIMONTHLY

The Neurodiversity Voices Podcast is hosted by Paul Cruz, a neurodivergent creator sharing real conversations rooted in lived experience. This Vancouver-based podcast explores autism, ADHD, disability, and neurodiversity through honest storytelling, interviews, and community dialogue. We amplify voices often overlooked and create space for respectful, accessible conversations about identity, inclusion, mental health, and navigating systems not built for different minds. Featuring advocates, educators, authors, and community leaders, the show focuses on understanding rather than fixing people. If you're looking for authentic neurodiversity content, lived-experience perspectives, and thoughtful discussions on accessibility, belonging, and representation, you're in the right place. Subscribe for interviews, insights, and stories that embrace every mind and share every voice. Website: https://www.neurodiversityvoices.com

  1. The Neurodiva's Shift: Movement, Connection, and Belonging in School with Dr. Shani Challenor

    FEB 15

    The Neurodiva's Shift: Movement, Connection, and Belonging in School with Dr. Shani Challenor

    Guest: Dr. Shani Challenor. In this episode of The Neurodiversity Voices Podcast, host Paul Cruz is joined by educator, advocate, and "Neurodiva" Dr. Shani Challenor for a deeply personal and powerful conversation about neurodivergence, education, faith, and what becomes possible when people are truly seen. Dr. Shani shares her journey as a trained dancer, special and general education teacher, adjunct professor, and mom—along with her experience being diagnosed with ADHD, anxiety, and depression while earning her doctorate. She reflects on growing up feeling unheard in school, how movement and the arts became a gateway to learning, and why connection—not compliance—is the foundation of meaningful education. Together, Paul and Dr. Shani explore the emotional weight that families of neurodivergent children carry, the gaps in overwhelmed school systems, and the importance of shifting mindsets from "fixing" students to honouring their brilliance. Dr. Shani also speaks candidly about intersectionality, sharing what it means to navigate neurodivergence as a Black woman, and how faith continues to guide her calling and advocacy. This episode is a reminder that progress doesn't always look like perfection—and that breakthroughs often begin with patience, grace, and hope. In this episode, you'll hear: Dr. Shani's late diagnosis with ADHD, anxiety, and depression How dance, music, and movement support regulation, memory, and confidence The difference between compliance-based teaching and connection-based learning What educators need to understand about the daily emotional load families carry A real-life story of shifting a student from barriers to breakthrough Why many school systems struggle to support neurodivergent learners—and where hope still exists The intersection of race, gender, and neurodivergence in professional spaces Faith, purpose, and the mission behind The Challenor Challenge Connect with Dr. Shani Instagram: @DRSHANICHALLENOR The Challenor Challenge: Shifting spaces, mindsets, and systems so neurodivergent individuals and all learners are genuinely included, valued, and supported through storytelling, education, creativity, and lived experience. About the Podcast The Neurodiversity Voices Podcast centers lived experience, amplifies neurodivergent voices, and explores what it really means to be supported, understood, and valued in our communities and systems. If this episode resonated with you, please share it with someone who might need to hear it—and follow or subscribe so you don't miss future conversations.

    26 min
  2. Between Places: ADHD, Identity, and the Beauty of Being a Generalist with Nathan Stafford-King

    FEB 1

    Between Places: ADHD, Identity, and the Beauty of Being a Generalist with Nathan Stafford-King

    Guest: Nathan Stafford-King. Paul sits down with Nathan, a storyteller, photographer, and theatre director whose life has unfolded across the UK, Germany, Denmark, India, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, Mexico, and now Canada. Together, they explore how ADHD can be misunderstood, misdiagnosed, and masked, especially when moving through different systems and cultures. Nathan opens up about early signs in childhood, the impact of a later misdiagnosis, and the moment he finally sought an ADHD assessment after realizing that even "doing everything right" (sleep, routines, food, exercise) couldn't reliably stabilize focus. He describes the daily push-and-pull of time, unfinished projects, distraction, and the constant practice of patience and flexibility. The conversation also highlights the gifts: deep hyperfocus (including marathon video-editing sessions), creative spark, humour, and the ability to turn chaos into story. Nathan shares a wildly unforgettable travel moment from a night bus in India — a perfect example of how impulsivity and problem-solving collide in real life. They close with a powerful message for listeners who feel scattered or "too multi-passionate," including a recommendation for the book Range and a reminder that accumulated experiences can add up in meaningful ways — even when the path looks non-linear. Memorable Moments / Quotes (pull quotes) "Some days I did everything right… and I still couldn't focus. It felt unfair." "Task initiation is sometimes really hard… but with video editing, I could just go." "Identity is the one thing about us that isn't ours — it's given by others." "If you can step into someone else's perspective, you double your knowledge." Where to find Nathan Instagram: @NathSK Link to his play: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T8CJ1yXZMBY Purchase the books mentioned in this episode through Amazon   As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. If you choose to buy through our affiliation links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you for supporting the podcast!     Range: Why Generalists Triumph in a Specialized World (Book recommendation) Amazon US/International Affiliate Link: https://amzn.to/3MBrtcj Amazon Canada Affiliate Link: https://amzn.to/3XTKdWT Connect With Us Learn more about the Neurodiversity Voices Podcast: www.neurodiversityvoices.com The Neurodiversity Voices Podcast would love your feedback. Please post a review on our Google profile. https://share.google/9RAoxcWhwXu5Pl1xY Grab your The Neurodiversity Voices Podcast Merch Items from our Store https://www.neurodiversityvoices.com/category/all-products Support by joining our Patreon Community: https://www.patreon.com/14218572/join Be A Neurodiversity Voices+ Subscriber https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/the-neurodiversity-voices-podcast-adhd-autism-audhd/id1806028241 If you're listening on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or any podcast player you love, please take a moment to rate the show and leave a comment. It makes a huge difference!

    1h 17m
  3. Supporting Neurodiverse Learners with Dr. Emily Levy – Time Management, Organization, Reading, Writing & Math Strategies

    JAN 15

    Supporting Neurodiverse Learners with Dr. Emily Levy – Time Management, Organization, Reading, Writing & Math Strategies

    Guest: Dr. Emily Levy, founder of EBL Coaching, to unpack practical, research-based strategies that help neurodiverse students thrive. From time management and organization to reading, writing, and math, Dr. Levy shares powerful tools rooted in executive functioning and multisensory instruction. You'll learn how techniques such as ET vs. AT time-tracking, the three-tiered organization system, visual brainstorming webs, and Orton-Gillingham reading instruction transform learning for students with ADHD and dyslexia. Dr. Levy also offers guidance for parents, quick wins students can use immediately, and a moving success story that proves early struggles do not define long-term potential. Whether you're a parent, educator, or neurodivergent learner yourself, this conversation is packed with actionable insights that foster confidence, independence, and meaningful academic growth. Learn More About Dr. Levy & EBL Coaching Visit EBLCoaching.com for: Articles Resources Program details Additional podcasts and interviews Follow EBL Coaching on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, X, and LinkedIn. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ebl_coaching/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EBLCoaching LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/emilylevy/ Connect With Us Learn more about the Neurodiversity Voices Podcast: www.neurodiversityvoices.com The Neurodiversity Voices Podcast would love your feedback. Post a review on our Google profile. https://share.google/9RAoxcWhwXu5Pl1xY Grab your The Neurodiversity Voices Podcast Merch Catalogue Items from our Store https://www.neurodiversityvoices.com/category/all-products Support by joining our Patreon Community: https://www.patreon.com/14218572/join Be A Neurodiversity Voices+ Subscriber https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/the-neurodiversity-voices-podcast-adhd-autism-audhd/id1806028241 If you're listening on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or any podcast player you love, please take a moment to rate the show and leave a comment. It makes a huge difference!

    23 min
  4. Learning to See: Why Understanding Neurodivergent Brains Changes Everything with Jeff Brown

    JAN 1

    Learning to See: Why Understanding Neurodivergent Brains Changes Everything with Jeff Brown

    Guest: Jeff Brown. What does it truly mean to see a child — not just their behaviour, but the brain and experiences underneath it? In this episode of The Neurodiversity Voices Podcast, host Paul Cruz is joined by educator and author Jeff Brown, a high school teacher with over 25 years of experience and lived experience as an autistic and ADHD adult. Together, they explore how slowing down our perception can transform classrooms, homes, and lives. Jeff shares why behaviour is so often misunderstood, how neurodivergent students are mislabeled as "lazy" or "defiant," and what becomes possible when adults choose curiosity over judgment. From sensory overload and rejection sensitivity to discipline systems and long-term self-worth, this conversation reframes advocacy as something that begins with how we see people — long before paperwork or policy. This episode is especially meaningful for: Neurodivergent youth who've felt misunderstood Parents and caregivers seeking a more compassionate lens Educators looking to build inclusive, supportive classrooms When people feel seen, they feel safer. And when they feel safe, they can grow. Purchase the book mentioned in this episode through Amazon, "Seeing People: What Every Parent, Teacher, Therapist, Manager, and Person Needs to See About Everyone As Taught by an Autistic ADHD Teacher" - Author Jeff Brown. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. If you choose to buy through our affiliation links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you for supporting the podcast!     For Amazon US and International Buyers (except Canada) 1. Seeing People: What Every Parent, Teacher, Therapist, Manager, and Person Needs to See About Everyone as Taught by an Autistic ADHD Teacher - https://amzn.to/3MDRfwG For Amazon Canada Buyers: 1. Seeing People: What Every Parent, Teacher, Therapist, Manager, and Person Needs to See About Everyone as Taught by an Autistic ADHD Teacher - https://amzn.to/48Spgk9 Website: https://www.jeffbrownsclassroom.com/books/seeing-people Connect With Us Learn more about the Neurodiversity Voices Podcast: www.neurodiversityvoices.com Grab your The Neurodiversity Voices Podcast Merch Catalogue Items from our Store https://www.neurodiversityvoices.com/category/all-products The Neurodiversity Voices Podcast would love your feedback. Post a review to our Google profile. https://share.google/9RAoxcWhwXu5Pl1xY Support by joining our Patreon Community: https://www.patreon.com/14218572/join Be A Neurodiversity Voices+ Subscriber https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/the-neurodiversity-voices-podcast-adhd-autism-audhd/id1806028241 If you're listening on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or any podcast player you love, please take a moment to rate the show and leave a comment. It makes a huge difference! ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

    39 min
  5. Understanding Childhood Dyslexia: Early Signs, Diagnosis, and Support with Author Lynn Greenberg

    12/19/2025

    Understanding Childhood Dyslexia: Early Signs, Diagnosis, and Support with Author Lynn Greenberg

    Guest: Lynn Greenberg is a former family law attorney turned children's author. She shares the powerful story behind the Creative Cab Company, the award-winning book series she co-created with her son. Lynn opens up about advocating for neurodivergent kids, recognizing early signs of dyslexia and ADHD, and transforming her family's journey into characters like Robbie the Dyslexic Taxi and Susie the ADHD Taxi—a heart-opening conversation about celebrating differences, trusting your instincts, and giving every child a voice. Purchase the books mentioned in this episode through Amazon   As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. If you choose to buy through our affiliation links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you for supporting the podcast!     For Amazon US and International Buyers (except Canada)  1. "Suzy the ADHD Taxi and the Sightseeing Adventure" - https://amzn.to/3KtW1vM 2. "Robby the Dyslexic Taxi and the Airport Adventure" - https://amzn.to/4ruPlhM   For Amazon Canada Buyers:  1.  "Suzy the ADHD Taxi and the Sightseeing Adventure" - https://amzn.to/4pdIacn  2.  "Robby the Dyslexic Taxi and the Airport Adventure" - https://amzn.to/49IEIl3 Creative Cab Company Website: https://creativecabcompany.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/creativecabcomp Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/creativecabcompany/ Substack: https://creativewayfinders.substack.com/ Connect With Us Learn more about the Neurodiversity Voices Podcast: www.neurodiversityvoices.com Grab your The Neurodiversity Voices Podcast Merch Catalogue Items from our Store https://www.neurodiversityvoices.com/category/all-products The Neurodiversity Voices Podcast would love your feedback. Post a review to our Google profile. https://share.google/9RAoxcWhwXu5Pl1xY Support by joining our Patreon Community: https://www.patreon.com/14218572/join Be A Neurodiversity Voices+ Subscriber https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/the-neurodiversity-voices-podcast-adhd-autism-audhd/id1806028241 If you're listening on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or any podcast player you love, please take a moment to rate the show and leave a comment. It makes a huge difference! ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

    23 min
  6. Building Belonging with NeuroMatch (ft. Kiran Rodriguez)

    12/01/2025

    Building Belonging with NeuroMatch (ft. Kiran Rodriguez)

    Guest: Kiran Rodriguez joins Paul to share the personal story and mission behind NeuroMatch—a new platform that creates safer, Neurodiversity-Affirming spaces for dating, friendship, and community. We delve into feature choices such as chat prompts, voice notes, dyslexia-friendly colour settings, and verification; why starting local in Hampshire is important; and how the team is addressing safety, moderation, and crisis signposting. Notable quotes "ADHD is very hard to live with… It's shaped me because I've learned how to be strong and resilient." "Prompts are there to help when you can't think of what to say first." "I'm dyslexic—I want people to choose the colour that helps them read." "Friendship comes first… some people just want someone to talk to when they're lonely." "You're never alone… there's always somebody you can connect with." Resources & links NeuroMatch (soft-launch; website first, app later): neuromatchapp.co.uk Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/neuromatchapp/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kiran-rodriguez-1a625276?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=ios_app Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@neuromatchapp?_t=ZN-90C62rnsqrn&_r=1 Follow for meetups in Hampshire (UK) and global rollout updates Support & safety: in-platform reporting + support hub (as described) Call to action If you're an ND seeking an authentic connection, join the NeuroMatch soft launch to share feedback and help shape the platform. Creators & orgs in neurodiversity: reach out to collaborate on the pilot. Connect With Us Learn more about the Neurodiversity Voices Podcast: www.neurodiversityvoices.com Grab your The Neurodiversity Voices Podcast Merch Catalogue Items from our Store https://www.neurodiversityvoices.com/category/all-products The Neurodiversity Voices Podcast would love your feedback. Post a review to our Google profile. https://share.google/9RAoxcWhwXu5Pl1xY Support by joining our Patreon Community: https://www.patreon.com/14218572/join Be A Neurodiversity Voices+ Subscriber https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/the-neurodiversity-voices-podcast-adhd-autism-audhd/id1806028241 If you're listening on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or any podcast player you love, please take a moment to rate the show and leave a comment. It makes a huge difference! ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

    13 min
  7. Disability Justice, Lived Experience & Media: A Conversation with Andrew Letchuk

    11/24/2025

    Disability Justice, Lived Experience & Media: A Conversation with Andrew Letchuk

    Guest: Andrew Letchuk—an autistic, disabled, and neurodivergent advocate, writer, and podcaster—to explore disability justice, representation, and what true access can look like in everyday life. Andrew shares his journey through special education, diagnosis, and post-secondary accommodations, and how those experiences shaped his identity as a disabled person and pushed him into advocacy. Together, they unpack the differences between disability rights and disability justice, discuss media stereotypes of autism, and envision what it means to build accessible events, classrooms, and movements from the ground up. This conversation is part story, part political education, and part invitation: to listen to disabled expertise, honour lived experience, and practice disability justice in our daily choices. Connect with Andrew Letchuk: Our Voices podcast: Our Voices: Conversations of Disability | Podcast on Spotify  Disability on the Street blog: Disability On The Street | disability issues neurodiversity social justice  FUTURES program (for interested listeners): Futures - The AccessStudio  Tangled Art + Disability: Tangled Art + Disability  The Disability Collective: Home | The Disability Collective  Connect With Us Learn more about the Neurodiversity Voices Podcast: www.neurodiversityvoices.com Grab your The Neurodiversity Voices Podcast Merch Catalogue Items from our Store https://www.neurodiversityvoices.com/category/all-products The Neurodiversity Voices Podcast would love your feedback. Post a review to our Google profile. https://share.google/9RAoxcWhwXu5Pl1xY Support by joining our Patreon Community: https://www.patreon.com/14218572/join Be A Neurodiversity Voices+ Subscriber https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/the-neurodiversity-voices-podcast-adhd-autism-audhd/id1806028241 If you're listening on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or any podcast player you love, please take a moment to rate the show and leave a comment. It makes a huge difference! ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

    46 min
  8. Turning Dyslexia into Storytelling Power with Nellie Nakhel of Lovely Life Library

    11/15/2025

    Turning Dyslexia into Storytelling Power with Nellie Nakhel of Lovely Life Library

    Guest: Nellie Nakhel — author, advocate, and founder of Lovely Life Library, a creative space where children's stories celebrate neurodiversity and inclusion. Diagnosed with dyslexia at a young age, Nellie transformed what once felt like a barrier into her greatest creative strength. Through her storytelling and teaching, she's helping kids and adults alike see that thinking differently isn't a limitation — it's a superpower. Together, Paul and Nellie explore how neurodiversity shapes learning, creativity, and empathy, and what it means to create stories that make every child feel seen. Notable Quotes "It's not necessarily a bad thing to think differently — it just means your mind works in its own amazing way." — Nellie Nakhel "If I can make even one child feel better about their differences, that's success to me." — Nellie Nakhel "Neurodiversity isn't something to overcome — it's something to celebrate." — Paul Cruz Nellie Nakhel is an author, educator, and advocate for neurodiversity. As the founder of Lovely Life Library, she creates inclusive picture books that help children embrace their differences with pride. Her work blends her background in psychology, her experience in higher education, and her personal journey with dyslexia to empower learners of all kinds. To purchase Nellie's Lovely Life Library's 7 books through Amazon   As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. If you choose to buy through our affiliation links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you for supporting the podcast!     For Amazon US and International Buyers (except Canada)  1. "Rising With Dyslexia" - https://amzn.to/3MuXVx3 2. "Light Of Hers" - https://amzn.to/48JPkxS 3. "Shining in Silence: The Story of a Deaf Dancer" - https://amzn.to/44iD9H6 4.  "The Waves of Anxiety: And Learning How to Swim" - https://amzn.to/48zi9yn 5. "Breathe, Little One: It's Not So Easy...But I'm Trying!" - https://amzn.to/48PHoez 6.  "Leo, the Lion Who Taught Me" - https://amzn.to/4iRiNup 7. "Every Believes In Something: Together in a World of Differences" https://amzn.to/4aKZMI2 For Amazon Canada Buyers:  1. "Rising With Dyslexia" -https://amzn.to/4rQACxV 2. "Light Of Hers" - https://amzn.to/4q3u11e 3. "Shining in Silence: The Story of a Deaf Dancer" - https://amzn.to/3KXr6ID 4.  "The Waves of Anxiety: And Learning How to Swim" - https://amzn.to/3MpxN6R 5. "Breathe, Little One: It's Not So Easy...But I'm Trying!" - https://amzn.to/4abf8p9 6.  "Leo, the Lion Who Taught Me" - https://amzn.to/48vSqXu 7. "Every Believes In Something: Together in a World of Differences" https://amzn.to/4oOjVjK 🔗 Learn more: lovelylifelibrary.com Connect with Nellie Nakhel Website: lovelylifelibrary.com Instagram: @nellienakhel_lovelylifelibrary Facebook: nellie.nakhel Her books can be found on Amazon and Ingramspark Connect With Us Learn more about the Neurodiversity Voices Podcast: www.neurodiversityvoices.com Grab your The Neurodiversity Voices Podcast Merch Catalogue Items from our Store https://www.neurodiversityvoices.com/category/all-products The Neurodiversity Voices Podcast would love your feedback. Post a review to our Google profile. https://share.google/9RAoxcWhwXu5Pl1xY Support by joining our Patreon Community: https://www.patreon.com/14218572/join Be A Neurodiversity Voices+ Subscriber https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/the-neurodiversity-voices-podcast-adhd-autism-audhd/id1806028241 If you're listening on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or any podcast player you love, please take a moment to rate the show and leave a comment. It makes a huge difference! ★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★

    19 min
See All (27)

Trailer

Ratings & Reviews

About

The Neurodiversity Voices Podcast is hosted by Paul Cruz, a neurodivergent creator sharing real conversations rooted in lived experience. This Vancouver-based podcast explores autism, ADHD, disability, and neurodiversity through honest storytelling, interviews, and community dialogue. We amplify voices often overlooked and create space for respectful, accessible conversations about identity, inclusion, mental health, and navigating systems not built for different minds. Featuring advocates, educators, authors, and community leaders, the show focuses on understanding rather than fixing people. If you're looking for authentic neurodiversity content, lived-experience perspectives, and thoughtful discussions on accessibility, belonging, and representation, you're in the right place. Subscribe for interviews, insights, and stories that embrace every mind and share every voice. Website: https://www.neurodiversityvoices.com

Information