May 31

Neurodiversity Voices Mini #1: Reflections from the Employ to Empower Summer Make Change Market

Welcome to the very first Neurodiversity Voices Mini! In this special short-form episode, host Paul Cruz shares reflections from the Employ to Empower Summer Make Change Market held on May 28 at Bentall Centre in Vancouver, British Columbia. This community-focused event brought together advocates, employers, organizations, and community members committed to creating more inclusive opportunities for neurodivergent individuals and people with disabilities. Paul reflects on the meaningful conversations, connections, and shared commitment to accessibility, belonging, employment inclusion, and neurodiversity awareness that made the event so impactful. Important Donation Campaign Update Paul also provides an update regarding The Neurodiversity Voices Podcast's "$5 Helps Make Change" donation postcard campaign. During the event, some supporters who received donation postcards encountered an issue with the donation link that incorrectly requested a Business ID number. The issue has now been fully resolved. If you received a donation postcard at the Make Change Market or while passing through Bentall Centre and were unable to complete your donation because of this issue, you are encouraged to try again using the same link. In this episode, you'll hear about: • Reflections from the Employ to Empower Summer Make Change Market in Vancouver • Building community through neurodiversity advocacy and storytelling • Why lived experience matters in creating meaningful change • The importance of accessibility, inclusion, and belonging • An update on the "$5 Helps Make Change" donation campaign • Lessons learned from engaging directly with the community • The launch of the new Neurodiversity Voices Mini series Whether you're autistic, ADHD, dyslexic, or otherwise neurodivergent, a parent, educator, employer, advocate, or ally, this episode highlights the power of community connection and the importance of amplifying neurodivergent voices. Thank you for supporting The Neurodiversity Voices Podcast and helping us create a world where every mind belongs. #Neurodiversity #Neurodivergent #Autism #ADHD #DisabilityInclusion #Accessibility #EmploymentInclusion #CommunityBuilding #Advocacy #Vancouver #NeurodiversityVoicesPodcast #LivedExperience #Belonging #Podcast About The Neurodiversity Voices Podcast The Neurodiversity Voices Podcast amplifies real voices, real stories, and real impact through conversations about autism, ADHD, neurodiversity, accessibility, inclusion, advocacy, education, employment, and lived experience. Hosted by Paul Cruz. Website: www.neurodiversityvoices.com Instagram • LinkedIn • YouTube: @neurodiversityvoicespodcast Disclaimer: This podcast shares educational content and personal perspectives and is not a substitute for professional medical, psychological, legal, or other advice. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

9 min

May 17

ADHD Burnout & Neurodivergent Mental Health: Navigating the Messy Middle with Lisa Richer

What if burnout wasn't the end of your story—but the beginning of becoming who you were meant to be? In this episode of The Neurodiversity Voices Podcast, host Paul Cruz sits down with Lisa Richer, a neurodivergent success partner, consultant, advocate, and former elite gymnast whose work helps people navigate what she calls "the messy middle." Lisa shares her personal journey through burnout, late diagnosis, parenting neurodivergent children, workplace challenges, and rediscovering her identity after years of survival mode. Together, they explore the emotional realities of neurodivergence, the pressure of always being "the strong one," and why growth often happens in uncertainty rather than clarity. The conversation also dives into Lisa's framework of clarity, confidence, and courage, and how learning to ask for help can become the first step toward transformation. Whether you're neurodivergent yourself, supporting someone who is, or navigating your own version of the messy middle, this episode offers an honest and deeply human conversation about identity, resilience, self-trust, and healing. In this episode, you'll hear about: • ADHD burnout and neurodivergent mental health • Navigating life after a late diagnosis • Parenting neurodivergent children • Workplace challenges and self-advocacy • The emotional cost of always being "the strong one." • Finding clarity, confidence, and courage during uncertain times • Why asking for help is a strength, not a weakness • Growth, resilience, and rediscovering your authentic self Memorable Quotes "Sometimes the hardest breakdowns in our lives are the beginning of becoming who we were meant to be." "Growth doesn't happen in certainty. It happens in the messy middle." "You don't have to do it alone—and you don't have to stay stuck." "My neurodivergence is my greatest gift." Featured Resource Confident You – The Raw Conversations: Real Stories of Courage, Healing, and Redefining Confidence by Lisa Richer Learn more at: confidentyoubook.com Community Event Mention If you're in Vancouver, come visit Paul at the Employ to Empower Summer Make Change Market on May 28, 2026, from 1:00–5:00 PM at the Breezeway at Three Bentall Centre, 595 Burrard Street, Vancouver, BC. Stop by the booth, say hello, and connect with the community. Subscribe & Support If you enjoyed this episode of The Neurodiversity Voices Podcast, please subscribe, leave a review, and share the episode with someone who may benefit from this conversation. Your support helps amplify neurodivergent voices, lived experiences, and meaningful conversations that foster understanding, inclusion, and belonging. #Neurodiversity #ADHD #Burnout #MentalHealth #Neurodivergent #NeurodiversityVoices #LisaRicher #SelfAdvocacy #Resilience #Inclusion #Podcast About The Neurodiversity Voices Podcast The Neurodiversity Voices Podcast amplifies real voices, real stories, and real impact through conversations about autism, ADHD, neurodiversity, accessibility, inclusion, advocacy, education, employment, and lived experience. Hosted by Paul Cruz. Website: www.neurodiversityvoices.com Instagram • LinkedIn • YouTube: @neurodiversityvoicespodcast Disclaimer: This podcast shares educational content and personal perspectives and is not a substitute for professional medical, psychological, legal, or other advice. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

48 min

May 2

Rethinking Neurodiversity: Inclusive Systems, Autism & ADHD Communication, and the Future of Accessibility with Justine Jecker

We've been taught there's a "right" way to think, communicate, and behave. But what if that assumption is the problem? In this episode of The Neurodiversity Voices Podcast, host Paul Cruz sits down with Justine Jecker to explore how neurodiversity is reshaping our understanding of communication, systems, accessibility, and human difference. This conversation goes beyond awareness. It challenges how workplaces operate, how healthcare communicates, and how society defines "normal." Together, Paul and Justine examine what happens when we move away from trying to fix individuals and instead focus on redesigning the systems around them. They discuss communication differences, accessibility, workplace inclusion, healthcare experiences, and why embracing neurodiversity benefits everyone—not just neurodivergent people. In this episode, you'll hear about: • Rethinking traditional assumptions about communication and behaviour • Neurodiversity in healthcare and workplace systems • Autism and ADHD communication differences • Accessibility as a systems issue rather than an individual issue • Creating environments that support diverse ways of thinking • Challenging definitions of "normal." • Inclusive design and systems change • Building communities and organizations where everyone can thrive Key Takeaway If there's one idea to carry forward from this episode, it's this: "When we stop trying to fix people, we start building systems that actually work for everyone." Connect with Justine Jecker Connect with Justine on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/justine-v-jecker Learn more about neurodiversity in healthcare, workplace inclusion, and systems-based approaches to accessibility. Subscribe & Support If this conversation resonated with you, follow The Neurodiversity Voices Podcast for more conversations about neurodiversity, accessibility, systems change, inclusion, and lived experience. Your support helps amplify neurodivergent voices and create meaningful conversations that foster understanding, belonging, and positive change. #Neurodiversity #Autism #ADHD #Accessibility #Inclusion #WorkplaceInclusion #HealthcareAccessibility #SystemsChange #Neurodivergent #Advocacy #NeurodiversityVoices #Podcast About The Neurodiversity Voices Podcast The Neurodiversity Voices Podcast amplifies real voices, real stories, and real impact through conversations about autism, ADHD, neurodiversity, accessibility, inclusion, advocacy, education, employment, and lived experience. Hosted by Paul Cruz. Website: www.neurodiversityvoices.com Instagram • LinkedIn • YouTube: @neurodiversityvoicespodcast Disclaimer: This podcast shares educational content and personal perspectives and is not a substitute for professional medical, psychological, legal, or other advice. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

54 min

Apr 18

Autism, Not Attitude: Why Workplaces Misunderstand Neurodivergent Employees with Felicia Davis

What if what looks like "attitude" is actually miscommunication? In this episode of The Neurodiversity Voices Podcast, host Paul Cruz sits down with Felicia M. L. Davis to explore how autism and ADHD show up in everyday conversations, workplaces, and relationships—and why so many neurodivergent people are misunderstood. From literal thinking and missed social cues to masking, burnout, and workplace bias, this conversation reveals the hidden cost of not understanding how different brains work. Together, Paul and Felicia examine how communication differences are often misinterpreted and why those misunderstandings can affect careers, relationships, mental health, and a person's sense of belonging. The discussion also explores what leaders, managers, organizations, and communities can do right now to create more inclusive, productive, and supportive environments. If you're a manager, partner, educator, or someone who has ever felt misunderstood, this episode may change how you think about communication. In this episode, you'll hear about: • Autism and ADHD communication differences • Literal thinking and social communication challenges • Masking and the hidden cost of fitting in • Neurodivergent burnout and workplace stress • Why communication is often mistaken for attitude • Workplace inclusion and leadership strategies • Building psychologically safe environments • Supporting neurodivergent employees, colleagues, and loved ones About Felicia M. L. Davis Felicia M. L. Davis is an advocate, speaker, and business leader who brings lived experience and practical insight to conversations about autism, ADHD, leadership, and inclusion. In this episode, she shares her personal journey toward diagnosis and the lessons she has learned navigating work, communication, relationships, and systems that often misunderstand neurodivergent minds. Felicia is also the co-author of the upcoming book: Autism, Not Attitude: Neurodivergence at Work and in Relationships Learn more at: feliciamldavis.com/book Eunoia Thinking: www.eunoiathinking.com This episode is especially valuable for: • Neurodivergent adults • Managers and team leaders • HR and DEI professionals • Spouses and family members • Educators and support professionals • Anyone who wants to better understand communication differences and build more inclusive environments Why this conversation matters Too many neurodivergent people spend years being misunderstood before they are ever supported. This episode brings language, clarity, and compassion to experiences that are often dismissed, misread, or overlooked. Felicia reminds us that understanding neurodivergence is not about lowering expectations. It's about creating the conditions for people to thrive. Share This Episode If this conversation resonated with you, consider sharing it with: • A manager • An HR leader • An educator • A spouse or family member • Someone exploring whether they may be neurodivergent Because understanding changes everything. Subscribe & Support If you enjoyed this episode of The Neurodiversity Voices Podcast, please subscribe, leave a review, and share the show with others. Your support helps amplify neurodivergent voices, increase understanding, and create a more inclusive world where every mind belongs. #Neurodiversity #Autism #ADHD #WorkplaceInclusion #Accessibility #Leadership #Neurodivergent #Communication #Inclusion #HumanResources #DisabilityInclusion #NeurodiversityVoices #Podcast About The Neurodiversity Voices Podcast The Neurodiversity Voices Podcast amplifies real voices, real stories, and real impact through conversations about autism, ADHD, neurodiversity, accessibility, inclusion, advocacy, education, employment, and lived experience. Hosted by Paul Cruz. Website: www.neurodiversityvoices.com Instagram • LinkedIn • YouTube: @neurodiversityvoicespodcast Disclaimer: This podcast shares educational content and personal perspectives and is not a substitute for professional medical, psychological, legal, or other advice. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

1h 29m

Apr 9

Beyond Productivity: Rethinking Human Worth, Neurodiversity & the Future of Work

What happens when a society decides your value is measured solely by what you produce? In this thought-provoking episode of The Neurodiversity Voices Podcast, host Paul Cruz sits down with Helena St. George to explore the powerful themes behind her novel Shattered but Not Silenced—a dystopian story that asks difficult questions about productivity, autonomy, human worth, and belonging. Drawing from her lived experience as a parent of neurodivergent children, Helena unpacks the emotional, political, and human realities that emerge when systems prioritize output over humanity. Together, Paul and Helena explore how society defines value, the pressures many neurodivergent people face, and why creating spaces where people are valued for who they are—not just what they produce—matters more than ever. This conversation dives deep into autonomy, advocacy, quiet resistance, disability inclusion, and what it truly means to be recognized as a person rather than a function. In this episode, you'll hear about: • The inspiration behind Shattered but Not Silenced • Neurodiversity and the future of work • How productivity culture impacts human wellbeing • Advocacy and systems change • Autonomy, dignity, and belonging • Parenting neurodivergent children • Dystopian fiction as a lens for understanding real-world challenges • Why society must rethink how it defines value and success Powerful Moments "My art is my voice. Maybe one day they'll listen." "I didn't want to make her likable—I wanted to make her relatable." "The tragedy isn't her autism. It's the system." "If you can lick a stamp, you're employable… except stamps are self-stick now." Who This Episode Is For • Listeners interested in neurodiversity and advocacy • Fans of dystopian fiction with real-world parallels • Parents navigating education systems and support services • Educators, advocates, and community leaders • Anyone questioning how society defines value, productivity, and success Final Reflection This episode challenges one of society's most deeply ingrained beliefs: that our worth is tied to what we produce. Instead, it offers a more human truth: Value comes from perspective, presence, humanity, and individuality. Resources & Links Helena St. George's website: helenastgeorge.com Shattered but Not Silenced: helenastgeorge.com/shattered-not-silenced Closing Thought If a system only values productivity, then resistance begins the moment you decide your humanity is enough. If this episode resonates with you, follow The Neurodiversity Voices Podcast, leave a review, and share it with someone who needs to hear this conversation. Your support helps amplify neurodivergent voices and encourages conversations that challenge assumptions, promote inclusion, and celebrate human diversity. #Neurodiversity #Advocacy #DisabilityInclusion #FutureOfWork #ProductivityCulture #Autism #Neurodivergent #Belonging #Inclusion #HumanWorth #HelenaStGeorge #NeurodiversityVoices #Podcast About The Neurodiversity Voices Podcast The Neurodiversity Voices Podcast amplifies real voices, real stories, and real impact through conversations about autism, ADHD, neurodiversity, accessibility, inclusion, advocacy, education, employment, and lived experience. Hosted by Paul Cruz. Website: www.neurodiversityvoices.com Instagram • LinkedIn • YouTube: @neurodiversityvoicespodcast Disclaimer: This podcast shares educational content and personal perspectives and is not a substitute for professional medical, psychological, legal, or other advice. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

51 min

Apr 2

Late-Diagnosed Autism in Women: Motherhood, Identity & Radical Acceptance

What happens when you spend years advocating for your autistic child—only to discover that you're autistic too? In this special April episode of The Neurodiversity Voices Podcast, host Paul Cruz sits down with Julie Green to explore late autism diagnosis, motherhood, masking, identity, and the journey toward self-understanding and acceptance. This episode marks two important milestones: • The first anniversary of The Neurodiversity Voices Podcast • World Autism Awareness Day Together, these moments create space not just for awareness but for reflection, nuance, and deeper understanding of the autistic experience. Julie shares how her understanding of autism evolved—from stereotypes shaped by media and popular culture to a deeply personal realization that reframed her understanding of herself, her family, and her life experiences. This conversation is about much more than diagnosis. It's about moving from self-blame to self-understanding, recognizing the ways autistic women are often overlooked, and learning to extend compassion to ourselves and the next generation. As we recognize World Autism Awareness Day, this discussion invites listeners to move beyond awareness toward: • Understanding • Acceptance • Inclusion • Systems-level change It also celebrates one year of The Neurodiversity Voices Podcast—a year dedicated to amplifying lived experience, challenging assumptions, and creating meaningful conversations about neurodiversity. In this episode, you'll hear about: • Late-diagnosed autism in women • Motherhood and neurodivergent identity • Masking and the hidden cost of fitting in • Self-discovery and self-acceptance • Autism stereotypes and misconceptions • Parenting autistic children • Moving from self-blame to self-understanding • Why awareness must lead to acceptance and change Why This Conversation Matters Many autistic women spend years—or even decades—without recognizing themselves in traditional descriptions of autism. Julie's story highlights the importance of representation, lived experience, and creating space for more diverse autistic narratives. Her journey reminds us that understanding ourselves can be one of the most powerful forms of advocacy. Resources & Links Learn more about Julie Green: juliemgreen.ca Explore her memoir, Motherness: juliemgreen.ca/books-1 Subscribe & Support If this episode resonated with you, please follow The Neurodiversity Voices Podcast, leave a review, and share it with someone who may benefit from this conversation. Your support helps amplify neurodivergent voices and create greater understanding, acceptance, and belonging for autistic and neurodivergent people everywhere. #Autism #LateDiagnosis #AutisticWomen #Neurodiversity #Motherhood #AutismAcceptance #WorldAutismAwarenessDay #Neurodivergent #Masking #Inclusion #JulieGreen #NeurodiversityVoices #Podcast About The Neurodiversity Voices Podcast The Neurodiversity Voices Podcast amplifies real voices, real stories, and real impact through conversations about autism, ADHD, neurodiversity, accessibility, inclusion, advocacy, education, employment, and lived experience. Hosted by Paul Cruz. Website: www.neurodiversityvoices.com Instagram • LinkedIn • YouTube: @neurodiversityvoicespodcast Disclaimer: This podcast shares educational content and personal perspectives and is not a substitute for professional medical, psychological, legal, or other advice. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

52 min

Mar 25

When the System Is the Problem: Why Neurodivergent People Blame Themselves with Zack Yarde

What happens when you realize the problem might not be you—but the system you're trying to exist inside? In this reflective episode of The Neurodiversity Voices Podcast, host Paul Cruz sits down with Zack Yarde, neurodiversity researcher, systems thinker, and longtime leader in human services, to explore a question many neurodivergent people quietly carry throughout their lives. Too often, neurodivergent individuals are taught to view their struggles as personal shortcomings rather than the result of environments, expectations, and systems that were never designed with them in mind. Together, Paul and Zack discuss workplace inclusion, leadership, psychological safety, community, and the importance of systems thinking when addressing accessibility and belonging. Drawing from his work in human services and workplace inclusion—as well as his involvement in tabletop role-playing communities—Zack shares insights into how organizations and communities can create spaces where people feel supported, valued, and empowered to contribute authentically. Rather than offering quick fixes, this conversation invites listeners into a deeper exploration of curiosity, self-understanding, and the ways neurodivergent people are often expected to carry the burden of change alone. If you've ever wondered whether you're "too much," "not enough," or simply built differently than the systems around you, this episode is for you. In this episode, you'll hear about: • Systems thinking and neurodiversity • Why neurodivergent people often blame themselves • Workplace inclusion and employee agency • Leadership and psychological safety • Community, belonging, and support networks • Accessibility beyond accommodations • Tabletop gaming and collaborative community building • Creating environments where people can thrive Memorable Moments "We might get a good idea that helps one group—but when we apply it to everyone, we can accidentally exclude even more people." "Stop blaming yourself for being your own manifestation of neurodivergence." "True independence actually requires community." About the Guest Zack Yarde is a neurodiversity researcher, leadership practitioner, and systems thinker focused on building more inclusive workplaces and communities. His work explores how organizational systems, leadership practices, and culture shape accessibility, psychological safety, and employee agency. Alongside his professional work, Zack is actively involved in tabletop role-playing communities, where he facilitates collaborative storytelling spaces that foster creativity, connection, and belonging. Connect With Zack LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/zackyarde Why This Conversation Matters Many neurodivergent people spend years trying to adapt themselves to systems that were never designed with their needs in mind. This episode offers a different perspective: Sometimes growth is not about changing yourself. Sometimes it's about recognizing where systems, assumptions, and structures need to change instead. Subscribe & Support If you enjoyed this episode of The Neurodiversity Voices Podcast, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who may benefit from this conversation. Your support helps amplify neurodivergent voices and foster conversations that promote understanding, accessibility, belonging, and meaningful systems change. #Neurodiversity #SystemsThinking #WorkplaceInclusion #PsychologicalSafety #Accessibility #Leadership #Neurodivergent #Belonging #Community #Advocacy #ZackYarde #NeurodiversityVoices #Podcast About The Neurodiversity Voices Podcast The Neurodiversity Voices Podcast amplifies real voices, real stories, and real impact through conversations about autism, ADHD, neurodiversity, accessibility, inclusion, advocacy, education, employment, and lived experience. Hosted by Paul Cruz. Website: www.neurodiversityvoices.com Instagram • LinkedIn • YouTube: @neurodiversityvoicespodcast Disclaimer: This podcast shares educational content and personal perspectives and is not a substitute for professional medical, psychological, legal, or other advice. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

51 min

Mar 24

You're Not Broken. The System Is: A Neurodiversity Voices Podcast Trailer

At what point do you stop asking, "What's wrong with me?" and start asking, "What's wrong with the system?" In this special trailer episode of The Neurodiversity Voices Podcast, host Paul Cruz previews an upcoming conversation with Zack Yarde, a neurodiversity researcher, systems thinker, and advocate for more inclusive workplaces and communities. Together, they explore one of the most important mindset shifts for neurodivergent individuals: you are not the problem. Zack shares powerful insights on self-acceptance, the pressure to fit "typical" presentations of neurodivergence, and why organizations often struggle to move beyond performative inclusion. The conversation examines how systems, leadership, and culture work together—and why meaningful change requires all three. This trailer offers a glimpse into a deeper discussion about authenticity, belonging, and challenging the assumptions that cause so many neurodivergent people to question themselves. Key themes include: • Self-acceptance and neurodivergent identity • Systems thinking and inclusion • Workplace culture and belonging • Authenticity versus masking • Why neurodivergent people are not the problem • Creating environments where people can thrive Coming Soon The full conversation with Zack Yarde goes live on March 25. Be sure to subscribe to The Neurodiversity Voices Podcast so you don't miss this thought-provoking discussion about neurodiversity, systems change, and human potential. Because authenticity isn't a weakness—it's a strength. #Neurodiversity #Inclusion #SystemsThinking #WorkplaceInclusion #Authenticity #Belonging #Neurodivergent #Leadership #Accessibility #NeurodiversityVoices #Podcast About The Neurodiversity Voices Podcast The Neurodiversity Voices Podcast amplifies real voices, real stories, and real impact through conversations about autism, ADHD, neurodiversity, accessibility, inclusion, advocacy, education, employment, and lived experience. Hosted by Paul Cruz. Website: www.neurodiversityvoices.com Instagram • LinkedIn • YouTube: @neurodiversityvoicespodcast Disclaimer: This podcast shares educational content and personal perspectives and is not a substitute for professional medical, psychological, legal, or other advice. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

1 min

The Neurodiversity Voices Podcast

Neurodiversity Voices Mini #1: Reflections from the Employ to Empower Summer Make Change Market

ADHD Burnout & Neurodivergent Mental Health: Navigating the Messy Middle with Lisa Richer

Rethinking Neurodiversity: Inclusive Systems, Autism & ADHD Communication, and the Future of Accessibility with Justine Jecker

Autism, Not Attitude: Why Workplaces Misunderstand Neurodivergent Employees with Felicia Davis

Beyond Productivity: Rethinking Human Worth, Neurodiversity & the Future of Work

Late-Diagnosed Autism in Women: Motherhood, Identity & Radical Acceptance

When the System Is the Problem: Why Neurodivergent People Blame Themselves with Zack Yarde

You're Not Broken. The System Is: A Neurodiversity Voices Podcast Trailer

Trailers

You're Not Broken. The System Is: A Neurodiversity Voices Podcast Trailer

Neurodiversity Voices+ | Ad-Free & Bonus Content

Neurodivergent Leadership: From Insight to Action (Trailer)

The Neurodiversity Voices Podcast: Our Stories, Our Voices (Launch Episode)

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The Neurodiversity Voices Podcast

Episodes

Neurodiversity Voices Mini #1: Reflections from the Employ to Empower Summer Make Change Market

ADHD Burnout & Neurodivergent Mental Health: Navigating the Messy Middle with Lisa Richer

Rethinking Neurodiversity: Inclusive Systems, Autism & ADHD Communication, and the Future of Accessibility with Justine Jecker

Autism, Not Attitude: Why Workplaces Misunderstand Neurodivergent Employees with Felicia Davis

Beyond Productivity: Rethinking Human Worth, Neurodiversity & the Future of Work

Late-Diagnosed Autism in Women: Motherhood, Identity & Radical Acceptance

When the System Is the Problem: Why Neurodivergent People Blame Themselves with Zack Yarde

You're Not Broken. The System Is: A Neurodiversity Voices Podcast Trailer

Trailers

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