On the Spectrum of Humanity Sol Smith discusses how neurodivergent people are thriving with Sol Smith

On the Spectrum of Humanity: Thriving in a Neurodivergent World with Sol Smith

A diverse world is a happy world. It may seem that neurodivergent people are more common now, but the increase in diagnoses is attributed to awareness and diagnostic tools, not a rise in the population. Neurodivergence is a distinct way of experiencing the world, with many neurodivergent individuals successfully thriving in a society traditionally designed for neurotypicals. This shift in perspective celebrates the full spectrum of humanity and recognizes that a world that accommodates and celebrates all types of minds is a richer and happier one.

To discover more about flourishing as a neurodivergent adult, Harvesting Happiness Podcast Host Lisa Cypers Kamen speaks with Sol Smith, a neurodiversity advocate, author, and certified autism specialist.

Sol, drawing from his personal experience as a diagnosed autistic adult, wrote The Autistic’s Guide to Self-Discovery: Flourishing as a Neurodivergent Adult to raise awareness about the differences between neurodivergent and neurotypical people. His book shares how he has successfully navigated and thrived in a neurotypical world.

Original Air Date Wednesday, September 3, 2025

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Meet Our Guest:

On the Spectrum of Humanity Sol Smith discusses how neurodivergent people are thriving with Sol Smith

Sol Smith is a neurodiversity advocate, author, and coach who empowers autistic and ADHD individuals to lead self-directed, fulfilling lives. A certified autism specialist and founder of the Neurospicy Community—the world’s largest support network for autistics and ADHDers.

Sol draws from personal experience as an autistic, dyslexic, ADHD adult. After more than 20 years as a college professor, he now focuses on helping others thrive through coaching and community.

Book: The Autistic’s Guide to Self-Discovery: Flourishing as a Neurodivergent Adult

Sol Smith—Neurodivergent Thriving:

  • The inspiration for the Autistic’s Guide was a lack of treatment options for those on the spectrum. {2:22}
  • Are neurodivergent people more populous than in the past? {9:57}
  • Neurodivergent people are thriving in a neurotypical world. {19:49}
  • Stimming is a coping mechanism of neurodivergents. {25:14}
  • A diverse world is a happy world. {31:53}

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Follow Sol Smith:

Sol Smith’s Website
Sol Smith on Facebook
Sol Smith on Instagram
Dan Ariely PhD on LinkedIn

Shareables:

“A sophisticated concept, in my experience, is often caught and processed more quickly than, maybe, a neurotypical person.” @LisaKamen on @HHTalkRadio Share on X “I grew up knowing I was different. The difference had me isolated from a lot of people. It felt like lots of imposter syndrome.” @theprofessorsol on @HHTalkRadio Share on X “I always encourage people to drop whatever complaint they have about the younger generation and the way they are self-identifying.” @theprofessorsol on @HHTalkRadio Share on X “One-third of autistics were in the gifted zone growing up. It’s a form of marginalization in some ways.” @theprofessorsol on @HHTalkRadio Share on X

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