Nature, Neurodiversity, and the Future of Human Potential

Dr. Jeffrey Karp is a Harvard Medical School and MIT professor, inventor, best-selling author, and visionary leader. From transforming the challenges of undiagnosed ADHD into a wellspring of creativity and innovation, Dr. Karp has built a career championing neurodiversity, mindfulness, and environmental stewardship. He has co-founded 14 companies and secured over 100 patents, Dr. Karp’s acclaimed book, LIT: Life Ignition Tools, inspires readers to move beyond autopilot living and embrace intentionality in daily life. Currently serving as Executive President of Geoversity Nature’s University in Panama, Dr. Karp champions a “kinship worldview” that weaves together science, design, the arts, and indigenous wisdom to reconnect humanity with nature. 

In today’s episode, host Shay Beider talks with Dr. Jeffrey Karp about the three main forces he believes hold us back in modern life and how reconnecting with our nature, ritual and intuition can help us move from disconnection to real connection. He breaks down ideas like “radical simplicity,” asking better questions, and the power of setting clear intentions in everyday interactions. The duo dive into his fascinating biotech work inspired by nature, his advocacy for rethinking neurodiversity, and the possibilities he sees for AI in transforming education. Dr. Karp shares what he’s learned about building an internal compass rooted in core values and reminds us that healing often means unlearning old patterns and paying closer attention to the world around us—so we can grow, reconnect, and help create a thriving future together.

Listen to the complete episode by clicking the player above. Transcripts for this episode are available at: https://www.integrativetouch.org/conversations-on-healing 

Show Notes:

• Read his book, LIT: Life Ignition Tools

• Learn more about Geoversity Nature’s University here

• Check out the Karp Lab here

• Check out The Power of Awe here

• Visit Modern Elder Academy

This podcast was created by Integrative Touch (InTouch), which is changing healthcare through human connectivity. A leader in the field of integrative medicine, InTouch exists to alleviate pain and isolation for anyone affected by illness, disability or trauma. This includes kids and adults with cancers, genetic conditions, autism, cerebral palsy, traumatic stress, and other serious health issues. The founder, Shay Beider, pioneered a new therapy called Integrative Touch™Therapy that supports healing from trauma and serious illness. The organization provides proven integrative medicine therapies, education and support that fill critical healthcare gaps. Their success is driven by deep compassion, community and integrity. 

Each year, InTouch reaches thousands of people at the Integrative Touch Healing Center, both in person and through Telehealth. Thanks to the incredible support of volunteers and contributors, InTouch created a unique scholarship model called Heal it Forward that brings services to people in need at little or no cost to them. To learn more or donate to Heal it Forward, please visit IntegrativeTouch.org