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Meet Your Host:
Sam Bier
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The Visionary Behind the Mic
Sam Bier is on a mission to bridge the gap between complex clinical data and the everyday lives of the neurodivergent community. As a host who navigates the world with autism himself, Sam understands that "New Breakthroughs" are only valuable when they are accessible. His journey into advocacy began in 2014 when he and his family founded Popcorn for the People, a social enterprise dedicated to creating meaningful career paths for the neurodiverse workforce.
A Legacy of Impact: Popcorn for the People Today
What started as a local shop in the Freehold Mall has grown into a national success story. Sam’s leadership helped the business expand from East Brunswick to a world-class processing center in Piscataway, and most recently, a major production hub in Philadelphia in 2024.
Today, Popcorn for the People is a thriving brand that unites communities across the region. By focusing on the mission of inclusion, Sam has established powerhouse partnerships with organizations across the board, including Rutgers University, the Philadelphia Eagles, Wawa, the NJ Devils, and Bell Works. While these partners represent the best of the region, the mission is nationwide: Popcorn for the People now ships its gourmet flavors to fans and supporters in all 50 states through its online shop.
The Lived Experience: A Journey Since 1996
Sam was diagnosed with autism in 1996. For nearly three decades, he has relied on cutting-edge research and new breakthroughs in ASD to improve his own well-being. This personal history is what led him to launch New Breakthroughs In Autism. As a lifelong fan of science who has conducted deep research across various fields, Sam realized that much of the most hopeful information was often buried under medical jargon. He decided to host this podcast to translate that complex research into clear, actionable facts for families, clinicians, and individuals on the spectrum, no matter where they live or what team they root for.
Beyond the Studio
When he isn't decoding the latest clinical papers, Sam is a true explorer. A proud lifelong New Jerseyan who prefers the warm weather, Sam has traveled the globe, finding inspiration in the history of Rome, the culture of San Antonio, and the energy of Boston. Sam is a man of diverse tastes and high energy. You’ll frequently find him on the pickleball court for his weekly game or hiking the trails of Cheesequake State Park. His research sessions are often fueled by a curated soundtrack that spans generations and genres, including Tom Petty, Deadmau5, and Rakim as his top influences. Sam believes that progress happens when we walk together. Through this podcast, he invites you to join him on the trail toward a more informed, hopeful future.
Sam's Monthly Picks
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