Guest: Cynthia Miller-Lautman – Occupational Therapist, Educator, and Host of Swinging Upside Down In 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 Takeaways The 8 Senses, Not 5 Cynthia explains touch, vestibular, proprioception, taste, smell, hearing, vision, and interoception, and why the first three are the foundation for regulation. “Just Right” vs On High vs On Low Instead of pathologizing, Cynthia uses “just right,” “on high,” and “on low” to help families and educators understand sensory needs in plain language. Behaviour as Communication, Not Defiance Rocking, leaving the room, refusing to eat, or “not listening” are reframed as clues to sensory overload or underload, not bad choices. Sensory Is a Human Need, Not a Reward Sensory tools (movement, weight, deep pressure, safe spaces) should not be “earned”—they’re supports that make learning, therapy, and daily life possible. How to Build a Micro Sensory-Safe Space With low-cost items (pillows, old sheets, beanbags, rocking/office chairs, simple weighted or vibrating tools), you can set up sensory corners in: Classrooms Homes and small apartments Therapy, medical, and dental offices Consent and Safety with Tools Cynthia shares practical guidelines for things like weighted tools (never more than ~10% of body weight), watching eyes and body language for consent, and avoiding forced touch. Sensory Needs Across the Lifespan Sensory regulation isn’t “just for kids.” It matters in: Dental and medical procedures Waiting rooms Workplaces and therapy offices Aging, dementia, and hospitalizations Becoming a Sensory Detective The most powerful shift: adults becoming curious detectives instead of judges—asking “What is this person trying to get to feel just right?” instead of “Why are they being difficult?” 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 & Links Cynthia’s course and webinars: https://courses.cynthiamillerlautman.com (Listeners can use the code sensory20 to get 20% off at checkout Cynthia’s podcast: Swinging Upside Down Upcoming talk: November 6 at the Montreal Teachers Convention, Bonaventure Hotel Website & resources: cynthiamillerlautman.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cynthiamillerlautmanot Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cynthiamillerlautman TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@cynthiamillerlautman LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cynthiamillerlautman Connect With Us Learn more about the Neurodiversity Voices Podcast: www.neurodiversityvoices.com Become a supporter of the show on GoFundMe: https://gofund.me/ccba4c773 Grab your The Neurodiversity Voices Podcast Merch Items at Dashery Store! https://theneurodiversityvoicespodcast.dashery.com/ 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! #NeurodiversityVoices #NeurodiversityVoicesPodcast #SensoryRegulation #Neurodiversity #OccupationalTherapy #OTLife #SensoryIntegration #TheEightSenses #Interoception #Vestibular #Proprioception #BehaviourIsCommunication #NotDefiance #Neurodivergent #SensoryNeeds #RegulationNotCompliance #NeurodiversityAffirming #InclusiveEducation #TraumaInformed #ParentingNeurodivergent #EducatorsOfInstagram #ConsentMatters #SensorySafe #HumanNeeds #DignityInCare #SupportNotPunishment #OTPodcast #SensoryRegulation #Neurodiversity #OccupationalTherapy #BehaviourIsCommunication #Neurodivergent #InclusiveSpaces #PodcastClip #MentalHealthPodcast #NeurodiversityPodcast #PodcastEpisode

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 the Nellie's books (through Amazon Affiliate Links) Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. If you choose to buy through these links, I 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 Printful 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! #NeurodiversityVoices #LovelyLifeLibrary #Neurodiversity #Neurodivergent #Dyslexia #DyslexiaAwareness #LearningDifferences #NeurodivergentLearners #ThinkingDifferently #InclusiveBooks #ChildrensBooks #NeurodiversityInBooks #RepresentationMatters #StoriesThatHeal #CelebrateDifferences #NeurodiversityPride #DifferentIsPowerful #EveryChildDeservesToBeSeen #StrengthInDifferences #ParentingNeurodivergent #EducatorsOfInstagram #CreativeEducation #InclusiveClassrooms #Neurodiversity #Dyslexia #InclusiveBooks #NeurodivergentKids #Storytelling #DifferentIsPowerful #PodcastClip #ChildrensLit

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 Printful Store https://www.neurodiversityvoices.com/category/all-products Support the show & create your own merch! I use Printify to design and ship custom merch on demand—no inventory, no hassle. If you’ve ever wanted to launch your own merch line, check it out here: www.printful.com/give-5-get-5/TOG355 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! #NeurodiversityVoices #CreativeCabCompany #Neurodiversity #Neurodivergent #ADHD #Dyslexia #LearningDifferences #ADHDAwareness #DyslexiaAwareness #NeurodivergentKids #AdvocatingForKids #ParentingNeurodivergent #TrustYourInstincts #EarlyIntervention #SupportNeurodiversity #ChildrensBooks #InclusiveBooks #NeurodiversityInBooks #RepresentationMatters #StoriesThatMatter #EveryChildDeservesAVoice #Neurodiversity #ADHD #Dyslexia #InclusiveBooks #NeurodivergentKids #Parenting #Storytelling #PodcastClip #CelebrateDifferences #LivedExperience #NeurodivergentVoices

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! #Dyslexia #ADHD #OrtonGillingham #Neurodiversity #ReadingSupport #LearningDifferences #SpecialEducation #MultisensoryLearning #InclusiveEducation #EducationMatters #reeleducation #NeurodiversityVoices #EBLCoaching #Neurodiversity #Neurodivergent #ADHD #Dyslexia #ADHDAwareness #DyslexiaSupport #LearningDifferences #NeurodiverseLearners #ExecutiveFunction #StudySkills #TimeManagement #OrganizationSkills #MultisensoryLearning #OrtonGillingham #InclusiveEducation #NeurodiversityAffirming #EvidenceBasedEducation #LearningSupport #AcademicConfidence #ParentingNeurodivergent #EducatorsOfInstagram #SpecialEducation #LearningStrategies #StudentSuccess

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! #PodcastEpisode #EducationPodcast #MentalHealthPodcast #NeurodiversityPodcast #ParentingNeurodivergent #NeurodivergentKids #RaisingNeurodivergent #SupportNeurodiversity #InclusiveEducation #NeurodiversityAffirming #TraumaInformedEducation #UnderstandingBehavior #NotLazy #CompassionOverCompliance #ADHD #Autism #AuDHD #ADHDAwareness #AutismAcceptance #ActuallyAutistic #NeurodiversityVoices #SeeingPeople #Neurodiversity #Neurodivergent

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 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!