In this episode, I’m joined by author and neuro-affirming life coach Sol Smith for a thoughtful and deeply personal conversation about autism (with a focus on high functioning adults), identity, and self-discovery. Sol shares his journey of being diagnosed with autism in adulthood and what inspired him to write The Autistic’s Guide to Self-Discovery: Flourishing as a Neurodivergent Adult.

In this conversation we explore the often-overlooked nuances of autistic experience — including high masking, social challenges, intense versus narrow interests, and the impact of societal stigma. Sol also speaks to the barriers many autistic adults face in accessing professional diagnoses, the importance of self-diagnosis, and the vital role community support groups play in fostering belonging and understanding.

Woven throughout the conversation is a broader reflection on consciousness and the unique ways autistic individuals may perceive and engage with the world. This episode offers insight, validation, and encouragement for autistic listeners, as well as greater understanding for allies seeking to learn.

In this episode, Sol discusses:

• His Journey to Writing the The Autistic’s Guide to Self-Discovery
• Understanding Autism and Narrow Interests
• Social Challenges and Hierarchies
• Building Friendships as an Autistic Person
• Masking and People Pleasing
• Gender Differences in Autism
• Rejection Sensitivity
• Cultural Changes and Acceptance
• Thinking Styles: Bottom-Up vs. Top-Down
• Understanding Neurotypical vs. Autistic Perception
• Media Literacy and Cognitive Shortcuts
• Communication Challenges in Relationships
• Encouraging Self-Diagnosis and Access Issues
• Autistic Traits and Social Perception
• The Cognitive Burden of Autism
• Coaching and Community Support for Autistics
• Exploring Consciousness and Perception

Visit Sol's website
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For more information about Wendy's new visionary fiction book, Raven's Daughter, or to purchase a copy, visit Three Worlds Press

Visit Wendy’s website to learn more about the the Harmonic Egg®

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In this episode, Linda River Valente returns to discuss the astrological landscape for the end of 2025 and the beginning of 2026. Our conversation delves into the significant planetary movements that shape collective and personal experiences, reflections on the cultural and political shifts, and a much needed optimistic outlook for new opportunities and momentum in 2026.

• Astrological Reflections on 2025
• Challenges and Retrogrades of Early 2025
• Cultural and Political Impacts
• Navigating the Heavy Energies of Autumn 2025
• Looking Forward to 2026
• Astrological Events and Predictions for Early 2026
• Uranus in Gemini and the Evolution of Communication
• Exploring the Soul in Technology
• Digital Disconnection and Human Connection
• Astrology and Human Culture
• The Impact of Digitalization
• Navigating Loneliness and Isolation
• The Role of Retrogrades in 2025
• Symbolism and Reality
• Astrological Insights and Human Experience
• Conclusion and Future Outlook

Connect with Linda
________

BECOME YOUR OWN SHAMAN Introductory Online Course

For more information about Wendy's new visionary fiction book, Raven's Daughter, or to purchase a copy, visit Three Worlds Press

Visit Wendy’s website to learn more about the the Harmonic Egg®

Lucid Cafe episodes by topic

Listen to Lucid Cafe on YouTube

In this episode of Lucid Cafe, I’m joined by Bonnie Buckner, author of The Secret Mind, for a fascinating deep dive into the transformative intelligence of our dreams. Bonnie shares how tuning into our dream life can help us grow, heal, and create greater harmony in our waking world.

We explore the two cognitive processing systems in the brain, Bonnie’s early childhood realization that dreams hold profound meaning, and the seven types of dreams preserved through a 13th-century lineage. She also offers practical guidance for capturing and interpreting dreams — and using them to unlock the latent potentials we all carry.

If you’re curious about the inner workings of the mind, or want to learn how dreams can become a daily tool for insight and transformation, this conversation opens a compelling doorway.

Visit Bonnie's website
________

BECOME YOUR OWN SHAMAN Introductory Online Course

For more information about Wendy's new visionary fiction book, Raven's Daughter, or to purchase a copy, visit Three Worlds Press

Visit Wendy’s website to learn more about the the Harmonic Egg®

Lucid Cafe episodes by topic

Listen to Lucid Cafe on YouTube