{"version":"1.0","type":"rich","provider_name":"Acast","provider_url":"https://acast.com","height":250,"width":700,"html":"<iframe src=\"https://embed.acast.com/$/69c77e1188f1e89132a5fd9d/69c77e20c2759aa9b15776d4?\" frameBorder=\"0\" width=\"700\" height=\"250\"></iframe>","title":"The Neurodiversity Voices Podcast: Our Stories, Our Voices (Launch Episode)","description":"<p>Welcome to&nbsp;<em>The Neurodiversity Voices Podcast</em>.</p><p><br></p><p>In this special launch episode, host Paul Cruz and volunteer co-hosts Livia Ward, Letara Couto, Karen Habashi, and Gino Akbari introduce themselves and share the personal experiences that inspired them to create a podcast dedicated to neurodivergent stories, lived experience, inclusion, and community.</p><p><br></p><p>Together, they discuss their backgrounds in psychology, education, parenthood, technology, coaching, behaviour support, writing, and neurodivergent advocacy. More importantly, they share why creating a space where people feel seen, heard, and understood matters.</p><p><br></p><p>This episode lays the foundation for the conversations ahead—honest discussions about neurodiversity, practical insights, personal stories, and the voices that too often go unheard.</p><p><br></p><p><strong>Meet the Hosts</strong></p><p><strong>Paul Cruz</strong></p><p>Reflects on the inspiration behind launching the podcast and the importance of creating conversations that celebrate neurodivergent experiences and perspectives.</p><p><br></p><p><strong>Livia Ward</strong></p><p>Shares her passion for psychology, storytelling, and supporting neurodivergent communities.</p><p><br></p><p><strong>Letara Couto</strong></p><p>Discusses her work as a learning strategist, her ADHD journey, and her commitment to helping neurodivergent learners and families thrive.</p><p><br></p><p><strong>Karen Habashi</strong></p><p>Opens up about receiving an ADHD diagnosis at age 40, motherhood, cultural perspectives, and the power of storytelling.</p><p><br></p><p><strong>Gino Akbari</strong></p><p>Explores his background in coaching, cognitive behavioural approaches, and supporting neurodivergent individuals and caregivers.</p><p><br></p><p><strong>What You Can Expect From This Podcast</strong></p><p>• Neurodivergent lived experiences</p><p>• Autism, ADHD, dyslexia, and other neurodivergent perspectives</p><p>• Conversations with advocates, educators, researchers, and community leaders</p><p>• Practical tools and strategies</p><p>• Stories of resilience, belonging, and self-discovery</p><p>• Discussions that challenge stigma and promote inclusion</p><p><br></p><p><strong>Why This Episode Matters</strong></p><p>This podcast was created to amplify voices that deserve to be heard.</p><p>Whether you're neurodivergent, a parent, educator, caregiver, ally, support professional, or simply curious to learn more, this space is for you.</p><p>Because every story matters.</p><p>And every voice deserves to be heard.</p><p><br></p><p><strong>Join the Conversation</strong></p><p>If this episode resonates with you:</p><p>• Subscribe so you never miss an episode</p><p>• Leave a review to help others discover the show</p><p>• Share the podcast with someone who may benefit from it</p><p>• Follow @NeurodiversityVoicesPodcast on social media</p><p><br></p><p><strong>Thank You</strong></p><p>Thank you for supporting the launch of&nbsp;<em>The Neurodiversity Voices Podcast</em>.</p><p><br></p><p>We're just getting started, and we're grateful you're joining us on this journey.</p><p><br></p><p>#Neurodiversity #Autism #ADHD #Neurodivergent #Inclusion #Accessibility #Advocacy #Community #LivedExperience #NeurodiversityVoices #Podcast</p>","author_name":"The Neurodiversity Voices Podcast"}