The Neurodiversity Voices Podcast

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 UpdatePaul 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 seriesWhether 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

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 selfMemorable 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 ResourceConfident You – The Raw Conversations: Real Stories of Courage, Healing, and Redefining Confidence by Lisa RicherLearn more at: confidentyoubook.comCommunity Event MentionIf 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 & SupportIf 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

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 thriveKey TakeawayIf 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 JeckerConnect with Justine on LinkedIn:linkedin.com/in/justine-v-jeckerLearn more about neurodiversity in healthcare, workplace inclusion, and systems-based approaches to accessibility.Subscribe & SupportIf 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

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 onesAbout Felicia M. L. DavisFelicia 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 RelationshipsLearn more at:feliciamldavis.com/bookEunoia Thinking:www.eunoiathinking.comThis 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 environmentsWhy this conversation mattersToo 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 EpisodeIf 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 neurodivergentBecause understanding changes everything.Subscribe & SupportIf 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

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 DayTogether, 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 changeIt 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 changeWhy This Conversation MattersMany 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 & LinksLearn more about Julie Green:juliemgreen.caExplore her memoir, Motherness:juliemgreen.ca/books-1Subscribe & SupportIf 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

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 thriveMemorable 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 GuestZack 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 ZackLinkedIn:linkedin.com/in/zackyardeWhy This Conversation MattersMany 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 & SupportIf 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

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 thriveComing SoonThe 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

People aren't broken. They need systems that work for their brains.In this episode of The Neurodiversity Voices Podcast, host Paul Cruz sits down with Lisa Shanken, executive functioning coach and founder of Social Bloom, to explore what executive functioning really looks like in everyday life.Executive functioning isn't just about staying organized. It's about emotional regulation, follow-through, cognitive flexibility, self-awareness, and how we navigate work, relationships, and community.Together, Paul and Lisa discuss why implementation is often harder than planning, how accountability can transform outcomes, and why structured community may be the missing piece for many neurodivergent adults experiencing isolation or loneliness.Lisa also shares practical strategies for managing dysregulation, explains the gut-brain connection in accessible and relatable terms, and discusses how Social Bloom and Love Bloom are creating supportive spaces for authentic, in-person connection.This conversation is grounded, hopeful, and packed with practical insights for neurodivergent adults, parents, coaches, educators, and anyone interested in building systems that support success.In this episode, you'll hear about:• Executive functioning beyond organization and productivity• ADHD and follow-through challenges• Emotional regulation and self-awareness• Why planning is easier than implementation• Accountability and sustainable change• Cognitive flexibility and adaptive thinking• Loneliness and connection in neurodivergent adults• Building supportive communities that foster belonging• The gut-brain connection and everyday wellbeing• Creating systems that work with your brain instead of against itKey TakeawayPeople aren't broken.Many challenges associated with executive functioning are not character flaws—they are signs that existing systems, expectations, or supports may not align with how a person's brain works.When we build systems that support our strengths, meaningful change becomes possible.About the GuestLisa Shanken is an Executive Functioning Coach and the founder of Social Bloom, a community focused on helping people build authentic connections, strengthen social confidence, and create meaningful support networks.Through her coaching and community work, Lisa helps individuals develop practical tools for navigating executive functioning challenges while fostering connection and belonging.Connect with Lisa ShankenWebsite:lisashanken.comYou can also schedule a free consultation directly through her website.Subscribe & SupportIf 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 create conversations that promote understanding, connection, accessibility, and belonging.#ADHD #ExecutiveFunctioning #Neurodiversity #Neurodivergent #Accountability #EmotionalRegulation #CommunityBuilding #Belonging #SocialConnection #LisaShanken #SocialBloom #NeurodiversityVoices #Podcast