In this episode of The Inspired Path with Lisa Heidle, we’re joined by Michael Soria, educator, curriculum specialist, guest lecturer, and author of Sensory Smart Classrooms: The Essential Guide to Supporting Students with Sensory Differences. With 36 years experience in the educational field and three published books, Michael brings both professional expertise and deeply personal insight to the conversation.

Michael is a father and his lived-experience from raising a son with sensory processing differences has profoundly shaped his approach to his life and work in the educational system.

Together, we explore how the nervous system impacts learning and behavior, why many classrooms unintentionally overwhelm sensory-sensitive students, and how educators can create environments that support nervous system regulation without lowering expectations.

This episode offers practical strategies, mindset shifts, and compassionate wisdom for building sensory-smart spaces that benefit all learners.

Key Topics Discussed

• What sensory differences really are
• The role of the nervous system in learning, behavior, and regulation
• Why traditional classrooms often overwhelm sensitive students
• Practical ways teachers can create sensory-smart learning environments
• Shifting from behavior management to nervous-system awareness
• How lived experience deepens professional wisdom
• Supporting highly sensitive students without lowering expectations
• Why sensory awareness benefits all learners and teachers

Who This Episode Is For

• Teachers and educators (K–12 and beyond)
• School administrators and instructional leaders
• Parents and caregivers of sensory-sensitive children
• Highly Sensitive People (HSPs) seeking understanding and validation
• Anyone interested in trauma-informed, nervous-system-aware education

Learn More & Connect with Michael

• Buy Books: sensorysmartclassrooms.com/shop
• Website: sensorysmartclassrooms.com
• Follow Michael on Social Media:
  • Instagram: @instagram.com/sensorysmartclassrooms
  • LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/michael-p-soria/
  • Facebook: @sensorysmartclassroomsandbeyond
• Michael and Ginger Photo Credit: Ryan Soria

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Learn more about The Inspired Path host Lisa Heidle at www.lisaheidle.com