A neurodivergent person is one whose neurological development is atypical. People with ADHD, Aspergers, and autism are generally considered to be neurodivergent. It is common for neurotypical thinkers to misunderstand those with neurodivergent perspectives in social interactions and in the workplace. To discover more about how and why we should embrace neurodiversity immediately, Positive Psychology Podcast Host Lisa Cypers Kamen speaks with two authors who are experts on living with neurodivergent perspectives. As one of the first children to be diagnosed with ADHD, Joe Newman understands the misdirection of labels. He describes how he overcame them and how he helps parents foster a growth mindset by way of his acclaimed parenting methods as detailed in his book, Raising Lions. And, Eric Garcia recounts his research about living with autism in the United States. The research, originally part of a magazine article, led to his breakthrough book, We’re Not Broken: Changing the Autism Conversation.

About Lisa’s guests: 

Joe Newman likes kids with an attitude because he was one. As one of the first children to be diagnosed with ADHD, he grew up with the label and belief he was broken and his potential limited. Through experience and growth, he has shattered this label and become a joyful and whole person. For several decades Joe has worked with children of all ages to help them harness their potential. He also coaches parents, teachers and school administrators. His work has been researched by UCSB. 

Books: Raising Lions (2nd ed.)

Eric Garcia is a journalist based in Washington, D.C. Previously, he was an assistant editor at the Washington Post's Outlook section and an associate editor at The Hill and a correspondent for National Journal, MarketWatch and Roll Call. He has also written for the Daily Beast, the New Republic, and Salon.com. Garcia is a graduate of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. 

Book: We’re Not Broken: Changing the Autism Conversation

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