In this special episode, I present a deep dive generated by Google's NotebookLM based on my 4,500-word paper that redefines neurodiversity. This phenomenal presentation takes a critical look at the language we currently use, arguing that bedrock terms like "neurotypical" are functionally useless as a neurotype and that "neurodivergent" acts as a failed marketing campaign. Drawing on my background in marketing and advertising, I argue that the current vocabulary inadvertently builds an unnecessary "us versus them" boundary, triggering immediate resistance and defensiveness in the workplace because the words are seen as clunky and inherently judgmental. You'll hear exactly how a "PhD-sized word" like neurodivergent subconsciously reinforces the idea of deviation or straying from a standard path, undermining the core goal of inclusion before the conversation can even begin.

To fix this communication failure, I introduce a complete framework reboot anchored in the unifying concept of the Neurocloud. This model establishes that everyone is in the cloud and that human variation is defined purely by the intensity of universal human traits (like focus or sensory filtering) using an audio mixing board analogy. I replace the flawed binary with purely descriptive terms: Neurodistinct for the "spiky profile" (extreme highs and lows) and Neurouniform for the more balanced profile. Crucially, this allows us to redefine "neurotypical" not as fixed neurotype or neurotype grouping, but as a fluid social consensus, the set of unwritten interaction rules specific to a culture or company. One of the most amazing insights is understanding neurodiversity is key to optimizing interaction strategies between all forms of intelligence, under Dr Lutza Ireland's Neuroversal concept that including humans and AI, making it a core competency for 21st-century strategic operations, not just an HR focus. Tune in to learn how to use this new, non-confrontational language to advocate for mutual benefit and efficiency by focusing on leveraging strengths and reducing unnecessary cognitive load.

I think I am very lucky to have been connected to Sol Smith. He is a professor, author, neurodistinct self-advocate, neurodiversity consultant, with multiple advanced degrees. At the same time he is down to earth and a great conversationalist that is easy to talk with and listen to.

His newest book is AUTISTIC'S GUIDE TO SELF-DISCOVERY, sub-titled FLOURISHING AS A NEURODIVERGENT ADULT (Linked to Amazon)

Sit back and enjoy our wandering conversation as two autistics circle around the topic of neurodiversity and being neurodistinct.

Learn more about or contact Sol at https://www.professorsol.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/sol-smith-mfa-eds-ms-cas-7955364/

This podcast is major overdue. I did the interview with Gena Sims in June of 2023. It has been hiding in my podcast folder for me to edit and publish it. Gena had an internet connection that was unstable so there was a massive amount of editing as we would back up and redo from a good start point each time the connection froze. Between me trying to deal with being spread thin, what is turning out to be an issue with medications as my bodies processing of them slows down as I am getting older, and the seeming overwhelming editing job I had this episode on hold.

Gena is fascinating to talk with and is doing amazing things to help the autism community. It all started with an autistic sister and getting out graduating with a degree in theater and music just before the pandemic hit. In Gena's always upbeat style she found a way to turn it all into an amazing effort to help the autistic community and many autistic individuals. Check out her efforts or even better give Autism Theater Project a donation at:

https://autismtheaterproject.org/

https://www.youtube.com/c/AutismTheaterProject

https://www.linkedin.com/in/gena-sims-701ba4186

https://www.instagram.com/genasims19