The Neurodiversity Voices 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, Paul Cruz sits down with Julie Green to explore late autism diagnosis, motherhood, masking, and identity.This episode is also a milestone.It marks the first anniversary of the podcastAnd coincides with World Autism Awareness DayTogether, these moments create space not just for awareness—but for reflection, nuance, and deeper understanding.Julie shares how her understanding of autism evolved—from early stereotypes shaped by media to a deeply personal realization that reframed her entire life.This conversation is about more than diagnosis.It’s about moving from self-blame → self-understanding, and learning to extend that same compassion to the next generation.As we recognize World Autism Awareness Day this April, this conversation invites us to move beyond awareness toward:understandingacceptanceand systems-level changeIt also marks one year of The Neurodiversity Voices Podcast—a year of centering lived experience, nuance, and meaningful conversations.Resources & LinksLearn more about Julie Green: https://juliemgreen.ca/Explore her memoir Motherness: https://juliemgreen.ca/books-1Follow The Neurodiversity Voices Podcast: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/the-neurodiversity-voices-podcast/id1806028241Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1lI596bVmFi1rCwXHaVZaG?si=c582d74eddbb466aRSS: https://feeds.acast.com/public/shows/the-neurodiversity-voices-podcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this reflective conversation, Paul sits down with Zack Yarde, neurodiversity researcher, systems thinker, and longtime leader in human services.Together they explore a question many neurodivergent people quietly carry:What happens when you realize the problem might not be you — but the system you're trying to exist inside?Zack shares insights from his work on workplace inclusion, leadership, and community spaces, including tabletop gaming environments that intentionally foster psychological safety.Rather than offering quick fixes, this episode invites listeners into a deeper conversation about curiosity, systems thinking, and the ways neurodivergent people are often asked to carry the burden of change alone.If you've ever questioned whether you're "too much," "not enough," or built differently than the systems around you, this episode is for you.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 also involved in tabletop role-playing communities, where he facilitates collaborative storytelling spaces that support creativity and belonging.Connect With ZackLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zackyarde/Subscribe & FollowFollow Neurodiversity Voices Podcast on Apple Podcasts or Spotify • Share the episode with someone who needs to hear it • Leave a rating or review to help more people find the showThe Neurodiversity Voices Podcast Centering lived experience. Amplifying diverse minds and building inclusive systems.Follow, rate, and review to help amplify neurodivergent voices.Website: www.neurodiversityvoices.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

At what point do you stop asking "What's wrong with me?" and start asking "What's wrong with the system?"In this episode, Paul sits down with neurodiversity researcher Zack Yarde to unpack one of the most important mindset shifts for neurodivergent individuals: you are not the problem.Zach shares powerful insights on self-acceptance, the pressure to fit "typical" presentations of neurodivergence, and why organizations often fail at true inclusion. Together, they explore where inclusion efforts break down—systems, leadership, or culture—and why all three must work together to create meaningful change.This conversation is a reminder that authenticity isn't a weakness—it's a strength.The full episode of this conversation goes live on March 25.Make sure you're subscribed to The Neurodiversity Voices Podcast so you don't miss it—and be ready to join the conversation when it drops. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Guest: Lisa Shanken, Executive Functioning Coach & Founder of Social BloomExecutive functioning isn't just about staying organized — it's about emotional regulation, follow-through, cognitive flexibility, and how we move through the world.In this episode of The Neurodiversity Voices Podcast, Paul Cruz sits down with Lisa Shanken, executive functioning coach and founder of Social Bloom, to explore why implementation is harder than planning, how accountability changes outcomes, and why structured community may be the missing piece for neurodivergent adults navigating loneliness.Lisa shares practical strategies for breaking patterns of dysregulation, explains the gut-brain connection in real-life terms, and discusses how Social Bloom and Love Bloom are creating structured, supportive spaces for authentic in-person connection.This conversation is grounded, hopeful, and deeply practical.Key TakeawayPeople aren't broken. They need systems that work for their brains.Connect with Lisa ShankenWebsite: https://lisashanken.com Schedule a free consultation directly through her site.The Neurodiversity Voices Podcast Centering lived experience. Amplifying diverse minds. Building inclusive systems.Follow, rate, and review to help amplify neurodivergent voices.Website: www.neurodiversityvoices.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What happens when a late diagnosis doesn't just explain your past — it reshapes how you move through the present?In this episode, Paul Cruz talks with Erica about late-identified autism and ADHD (combined type), alexithymia, and the layered experience of unmasking while parenting a neurodivergent child. Erica shares the validation and clarity that came with diagnosis — alongside the grief for the younger self who navigated without support.We also explore how creative practice can become a lifeline: why poetry offered a "nonlinear" container for truth-telling, how nature and animals provide kinship and unconditional grace, and how activism can evolve into something sustainable through words, art, and care. Erica explains how tarot and spiritual frameworks can function as tools for self-understanding (and why "one-size-fits-all" approaches can harm neurodivergent people), and introduces her forthcoming book, The Autistic Arcana — a neurodivergent approach to tarot, magic, and the Major Arcana.If you've ever felt "too much," "not enough," or simply misunderstood — this conversation offers both language and permission.If this episode resonated, please follow/subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who might feel seen by it. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this deeply honest and expansive conversation, Paul and Tegan sit down with musician and advocate Jon Hart to explore identity, late diagnosis, burnout, creative processing, and what it means to unmask in an industry that often rewards performance over wellbeing.Jon shares his journey from building and losing a music business to experiencing a mental health crisis that ultimately led to discovering his ADHD and autism. What followed wasn't just recovery — it was what he calls a five-year metamorphosis.Together, we explore:The crash that forced a reinventionADHD, autism, and late diagnosis in adulthoodMusic as nervous system regulationWhy "sex, drugs & rock and roll" hides unhealthy copingProcessing through creativity as an "external hard drive."The power of sitting in the mud with someone instead of fixing themWhy neurodivergence isn't a deficit — it's creative wiringWhat the music industry must confront about inclusionBuilding community for neurodivergent musiciansJon also shares practical strategies he uses to regulate and protect his well-being online and build sustainable systems as a neurodivergent entrepreneur.If there's one takeaway from this episode: Process what you're going through in a way that feels natural to you — your creativity can become your clarity.Connect with Jon Hart:https://jonhartmusic.com/ndmMusic about page: https://jonhartmusic.com/aboutFacebook: facebook.com/jonhartmusicInstagram: instagram.com/jonhartmusicYoutube: youtube.com/jonhartmusicTikTok: tiktok.com/@jonhartmusicListen, follow, and share with someone who needs to feel less alone in their journey. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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.Connect with Dr. ShaniInstagram: @DRSHANICHALLENORThe 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 PodcastThe 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.Website: www.neurodiversityvoices.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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 realising that even "doing everything right" (sleep, routines, food, exercise) couldn't reliably stabilise 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 NathanInstagram: @NathSKLink to his play: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T8CJ1yXZMBYLearn more about the Neurodiversity Voices Podcast: www.neurodiversityvoices.comGrab your The Neurodiversity Voices Podcast Merch Items from our Storehttps://www.neurodiversityvoices.com/category/all-products Support by joining our Patreon Community: https://www.patreon.com/14218572/join 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! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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:ArticlesResourcesProgram detailsAdditional podcasts and interviewsFollow 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 UsLearn more about the Neurodiversity Voices Podcast: www.neurodiversityvoices.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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 misunderstoodParents and caregivers seeking a more compassionate lensEducators looking to build inclusive, supportive classroomsWhen people feel seen, they feel safer. And when they feel safe, they can grow.Book Website: https://www.jeffbrownsclassroom.com/books/seeing-peopleConnect With UsLearn more about the Neurodiversity Voices Podcast: www.neurodiversityvoices.comGrab your The Neurodiversity Voices Podcast Merch Catalogue Items from our Storehttps://www.neurodiversityvoices.com/category/all-productsThe Neurodiversity Voices Podcast would love your feedback. Post a review on our Google profile. https://share.google/9RAoxcWhwXu5Pl1xYSupport by joining our Patreon Community: https://www.patreon.com/14218572/joinIf 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! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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.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 UsLearn more about the Neurodiversity Voices Podcast: www.neurodiversityvoices.comGrab your The Neurodiversity Voices Podcast Merch Catalogue Items from our Storehttps://www.neurodiversityvoices.com/category/all-productsThe Neurodiversity Voices Podcast would love your feedback. Post a review on our Google profile. https://share.google/9RAoxcWhwXu5Pl1xYSupport by joining our Patreon Community: https://www.patreon.com/14218572/joinIf 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! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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 & linksNeuroMatch (soft-launch; website first, app later): neuromatchapp.co.ukInstagram: 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_appTiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@neuromatchapp?_t=ZN-90C62rnsqrn&_r=1Follow for meetups in Hampshire (UK) and global rollout updatesSupport & safety: in-platform reporting + support hub (as described)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 UsLearn more about the Neurodiversity Voices Podcast: www.neurodiversityvoices.comGrab your The Neurodiversity Voices Podcast Merch Catalogue Items from our Storehttps://www.neurodiversityvoices.com/category/all-productsIf 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! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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 SpotifyDisability on the Street blog: Disability On The Street | disability issues neurodiversity social justiceFUTURES program (for interested listeners): Futures - The AccessStudioTangled Art + Disability: Tangled Art + DisabilityThe Disability Collective: Home | The Disability CollectiveConnect With UsLearn more about the Neurodiversity Voices Podcast: www.neurodiversityvoices.comGrab your The Neurodiversity Voices Podcast Merch Catalogue Items from our Storehttps://www.neurodiversityvoices.com/category/all-productsThe Neurodiversity Voices Podcast would love your feedback. Post a review on our Google profile. https://share.google/9RAoxcWhwXu5Pl1xYIf 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! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Guest: Nellie Nakhel — author, advocate, and founder of Lovely Life Library, a creative space that celebrates neurodiversity and inclusion through children's stories.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 CruzNellie 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.Learn more: lovelylifelibrary.comConnect with Nellie NakhelWebsite: lovelylifelibrary.comInstagram: @nellienakhel_lovelylifelibraryFacebook: nellie.nakhelHer books can be found on Amazon and IngramsparkConnect With UsLearn more about the Neurodiversity Voices Podcast: www.neurodiversityvoices.comGrab your The Neurodiversity Voices Podcast Merch Catalogue Items from our Store https://www.neurodiversityvoices.com/category/all-productsIf 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! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Guest: Dr. Gregory James Skinner, M.D., a Calgary-based family physician and leading advocate for accessible adult autism diagnosis.Dr. Skinner shares his remarkable journey through international medical training, his personal connection to autism, and the challenges he faced building one of the few medical practices in Canada specializing in adult autism assessment. His story highlights the urgent need for better access, validation, and understanding for autistic adults who are often overlooked or dismissed.Key Quotes:"Autism isn't invisible—it's a visible neuro-minority. People see it, but it's misunderstood." – Dr. Gregory Skinner"Diagnosis is not about weakness—it's about validation, recognition, and access to support." – Dr. Gregory SkinnerResources & Links:Learn more about Dr. Skinner's Clinic, Autism Exists Diagnosis Clinic - https://www.autismexists.comVisit Lives in the Balance to explore Dr. Ross Greene's collaborative approach to care - https://livesinthebalance.orgConnect With UsLearn more about the Neurodiversity Voices Podcast: www.neurodiversityvoices.comGrab your The Neurodiversity Voices Podcast Merch Catalogue Items from our Storehttps://www.neurodiversityvoices.com/category/all-productsIf 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! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Guest: Cynthia Miller-Lautman – Occupational Therapist, Educator, and Host of Swinging Upside DownIn this episode of The Neurodiversity Voices Podcast, host Paul Cruz sits down with occupational therapist Cynthia Miller-Lautman, whose work bridges sensory science and neurodiversity-affirming practice.Cynthia shares how early clinical experiences, parenthood, and work in diverse communities taught her to "watch the person" and see so-called "behaviours" as signals of dysregulation, not defiance.Together, Paul and Cynthia explore the eight senses (including vestibular, proprioception, and interoception), what "just right" regulation actually feels like, and how to design sensory-safe micro-spaces in schools, homes, clinics, dental offices, and workplaces—without needing huge budgets or perfect setups.You'll walk away with a minimum viable plan to support sensory regulation, plus a new lens on "behaviour" that centres safety, consent, and dignity for neurodivergent children and adults.Key Quotes"Sensory is not a reward. Sensory is a human need." – Cynthia Miller-Lautman"Behaviours are often signals—our detective work is figuring out what's really going on.""Parents, teachers, and therapists must become sensory detectives to help kids (and adults) find 'just right.'"Resources & LinksWebsite & resources: cynthiamillerlautman.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/cynthiamillerlautmanotInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/cynthiamillerlautmanTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@cynthiamillerlautmanLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cynthiamillerlautmanConnect With UsLearn more about the Neurodiversity Voices Podcast: www.neurodiversityvoices.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Guests: Gabe Galand and Stacey Smith — two individuals who found clarity and self-acceptance later in life through their ADHD and autism diagnoses.Gabe, a producer from Vancouver who grew up in France, shares how years of being misunderstood shaped his sense of self — and how an ADHD diagnosis at 29 helped him rewrite his story.Stacey, diagnosed autistic at 35, reads a heartfelt letter to her younger self about masking, sensory overwhelm, and learning to give herself grace.This episode serves as a reminder that every voice matters — especially those that have been quiet for too long.Memorable quotes"I wish I could tell my younger self not to feel bad about the way my brain works." — Gabe"I see you now. I'm holding you. I understand you now." — StaceyConnect With UsLearn more about the Neurodiversity Voices Podcast: www.neurodiversityvoices.comGrab your The Neurodiversity Voices Podcast Merch Catalogue Items from our Storehttps://www.neurodiversityvoices.com/category/all-productsIf 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! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Guest: Nuriye Sinem Berthier. With a rich background in chemistry, pharmacology, genetics, and biochemistry, and personal experience as a parent navigating autism, Sinem offers a unique lens on child development, neurodiversity, and the microbiome.She introduces her Autism Cascade Hypothesis, highlighting how early-life environmental factors—including birth method, feeding choices, and gut health—may influence neurodevelopment and proposes a connection between diet, immune function, and brain development. It's not a proven theory, but it's an example of how science is trying to map complex biological pathways rather than single causes.To further explain, imagine a row of dominoes: a certain milk protein gets broken down into a peptide, which might affect the gut and the brain's protective barrier, leading to inflammation, and — in some individuals — changes in brain development. That's the 'cascade' this idea is trying to describe. It's still hypothetical — a chain of maybes, not certainties — but it's fascinating because it tries to connect dots across biology, diet, and development.Autism is multi-factorial — genetic, neurodevelopmental, sensory, and environmental factors all intertwine. The Cascade Hypothesis is one of several emerging models that explore how biology and development might interact, especially early in life.Understanding biology doesn't mean we're trying to 'fix' autism — it means learning more about how diverse brains develop. Insights from models like this could improve support, reduce distress, and honor neurodivergent experiences.This hypothesis is an early-stage idea — not clinical advice or a proven model. It's a thought experiment that may guide future research. As always, any medical or dietary changes should be based on peer-reviewed science and professional guidance.How do we balance curiosity about emerging science with respect for lived experience? We'd love to hear your thoughts — send us your reflections at info@neurodiversityvoices.comAs always on this show, we approach research with curiosity and humility. Today's topic is a developing hypothesis, shared to deepen understanding — not to define autistic lives or suggest that difference needs correcting.Connect With Nuriye Sinem BerthierLinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/sinem-berthierOrcid Account: https://orcid.org/0009-0002-5840-7957Journal Articles:1. Proposing the Autism Cascade Hypothesis: A Novel Mechanistic Framework Linking Dietary Peptides, Neuroimmune Activation, and Developmental Timing. https://zenodo.org/records/170072712. Cascading Pathways in Autism: A New Clinical Lens on Early Pediatric Intervention. https://zenodo.org/records/17019400Connect With UsLearn more about the Neurodiversity Voices Podcast: www.neurodiversityvoices.comGrab your The Neurodiversity Voices Podcast Merch Catalogue Items from our Storehttps://www.neurodiversityvoices.com/category/all-productsIf 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! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Guest: Michelle Steiner, a writer, photographer, paraeducator, and disability advocate who lives with an invisible disability.In this powerful and inspiring episode of the Neurodiversity Voices Podcast, hosts Paul Cruz and Gino Akbari sit down with Michelle Steiner.Michelle shares her deeply personal journey of being told what she couldn't do—only to go on and earn her college degree, publish widely, advocate for students with disabilities, and build a meaningful creative career. Through heartfelt storytelling, Michelle sheds light on the realities of invisible disabilities, self-advocacy, resilience, relationships, and the power of creativity as healing and expression.This episode is a must-listen for neurodivergent individuals, educators, parents, caregivers, and advocates seeking hope, understanding, and actionable insight.Memorable Quotes"Just because people can't see my disability doesn't mean it's not there.""I did it afraid. And when I started focusing on what I could do, I began to see success.""Having a disability isn't a weakness—it can become a strength."Connect with Michelle: Website: https://www.michellesmission.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/michelle.steiner.493966/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/steiner7250/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-steiner-0573ba260/ Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/michellesmission.bsky.socialConnect With UsLearn more about the Neurodiversity Voices Podcast: www.neurodiversityvoices.comGrab your The Neurodiversity Voices Podcast Merch Catalogue Items from our Storehttps://www.neurodiversityvoices.com/category/all-productsIf 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! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Guests: Janelle Peters (Mental Health Counsellor) and Amy Bujak (Social Worker) from Coast Mental Health's Brain Training Team. Together, they explore how cognitive remediation and neuroplasticity enable individuals to overcome challenges related to attention, memory, and executive functioning. From practical compensatory strategies like mental retracing and task linking, to stigma-smashing art pop-ups and the power of group connection, this conversation shines a light on how hope-based recovery transforms lives.Whether you're neurodivergent, a caregiver, an educator, or simply curious, this episode offers tools, stories, and perspectives that remind us: growth is always possible, and healing doesn't have to be a solo journey.Coast Mental Health Brain Training Program Website: https://www.coastmentalhealth.com/brain-training-changes-lives/Connect With UsLearn more about the Neurodiversity Voices Podcast: www.neurodiversityvoices.comGrab your The Neurodiversity Voices Podcast Merch Catalogue Items from our Storehttps://www.neurodiversityvoices.com/category/all-productsIf 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! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.