The Neurodiversity Voices Podcast Hosted by Paul Cruz
The Neurodiversity Voices Podcast is podcast about autism, ADHD, and disability, hosted by Paul Cruz, a neurodivergent creator sharing lived experience. Featuring interviews, storytelling, and honest conversations, the show explores mental health, accessibility, inclusion, and navigating systems not built for different minds. https://www.neurodiversityvoices.com/
Episode 31 Beyond Productivity: Rethinking Human Worth in a Dystopian World
What happens when a society decides your value is measured solely by what you produce? In this thought-provoking conversation, Helena St. George explores the chilling premise behind her novel Shattered but Not Silenced—a dystopian world where productivity determines survival. Drawing from her lived experience as a parent of neurodivergent children, Helena unpacks the emotional, political, and human stakes behind systems that prioritize output over humanity. This episode dives deep into autonomy, advocacy, quiet resistance, and what it truly means to be valued as a person—not a function.
Powerful Moments: “My art is my voice. Maybe one day they’ll listen.” “I didn’t want to make her likable—I wanted to make her relatable.” “The tragedy isn’t her autism. It’s the system.” “If you can lick a stamp, you’re employable… except stamps are self-stick now.”
This episode is for listeners interested in neurodiversity and advocacy. Fans of dystopian fiction with real-world parallels. Parents navigating education systems and support services. Anyone questioning how society defines value and success.
Final Reflection: This episode challenges a deeply ingrained belief: that our worth is tied to what we produce. Instead, it offers a more human truth—That value comes from perspective, presence, and individuality.
Closing Thought If a system only values productivity…Then resistance begins the moment you decide your humanity is enough. If this episode resonates, follow the show and share it with someone who needs to hear it.
Helena St. George
Shattered But Not Silenced: A Dystopian novel. Now on Amazon and any bookstore.