When the System Is the Problem: Neuroinclusion, Self-Blame, and Systems Change with Zack Yarde

MAR 25, 202650 MIN
The Neurodiversity Voices Podcast

When the System Is the Problem: Neuroinclusion, Self-Blame, and Systems Change with Zack Yarde

MAR 25, 202650 MIN

Description

<p>In this reflective conversation, Paul sits down with Zack Yarde, neurodiversity researcher, systems thinker, and longtime leader in human services.</p><br><p>Together they explore a question many neurodivergent people quietly carry:</p><p>What happens when you realize the problem might not be you — but the system you're trying to exist inside?</p><br><p>Zack shares insights from his work on workplace inclusion, leadership, and community spaces, including tabletop gaming environments that intentionally foster psychological safety.</p><br><p>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.</p><br><p>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.</p><br><p><strong>Memorable Moments</strong></p><br><p>"We might get a good idea that helps one group — but when we apply it to everyone, we can accidentally exclude even more people."</p><br><p>"Stop blaming yourself for being your own manifestation of neurodivergence."</p><br><p>"True independence actually requires community."</p><br><p><strong>About the Guest:</strong></p><br><p>Zack Yarde is a neurodiversity researcher, leadership practitioner, and systems thinker focused on building more inclusive workplaces and communities.</p><br><p>His work explores how organizational systems, leadership practices, and culture shape accessibility, psychological safety, and employee agency.</p><br><p>Alongside his professional work, Zack is also involved in tabletop role-playing communities, where he facilitates collaborative storytelling spaces that support creativity and belonging.</p><br><p><strong>Connect With Zack</strong></p><p>LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zackyarde/</p><p>Donation/Support: <a href="https://donate.stripe.com/3cI14o2yP4oIdnQ3BTaIM00?locale=en&amp;__embed_source=buy_btn_1TBR5jKBQBNitX9LljVc0mAk" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://donate.stripe.com/3cI14o2yP4oIdnQ3BTaIM00?locale=en&amp;__embed_source=buy_btn_1TBR5jKBQBNitX9LljVc0mAk</a></p><br><p>Patreon Community: <a href="https://www.patreon.com/14218572/join#no_universal_links" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.patreon.com/14218572/join#no_universal</a></p><br><p>Advertise: <a href="https://www.neurodiversityvoices.com/advertisewithus" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.neurodiversityvoices.com/advertisewithus</a></p><br><p>Instagram/Youtube/LinkedIn: @neurodiversityvoicespodcast</p><br><p>Website: <a href="https://shows.acast.com/the-neurodiversity-voices-podcast" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://shows.acast.com/the-neurodiversity-voices-podcast</a></p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>