Book Kristin Smedley for Your Next Event!

Change How You See Challenges

Kristin will show you the ABILITY and ADVANTAGE in disABILITY and disADVANTAGE

Mitchell, Michael, Kristin, Karissa at Michael's Penn State graduation
Kristin Smiling a huge smile with autumn trees behind her
Kristin Smedley featured in Real Woman Magazine

Meet Kristin

Welcome to my world of transformation and empowerment. I’m Kristin Smedley, a dedicated advocate, author, nonprofit founder, and speaker who has journeyed from uncertainty to unyielding optimism. As a mother of three, including two blind children, I once grappled with the daunting task of raising them amidst unfamiliar challenges. However, my path took an inspiring turn when I shifted my perspective, recognizing the incredible potential that lay within blindness.

Through unwavering determination, my children shattered every grim statistic that the blind community faces. This journey ignited a passion within me to guide others toward a similar paradigm shift. With a background in elementary education and a heart devoted to transformation, I offer a unique blend of experience and insight. My mission is clear: I help individuals, schools, organizations, and corporations not only see the ABILITY and ADVANTAGE in disABILITY and disADVANTAGE but also harness it for lasting success.

From sharing my compelling story to offering invaluable resources, I am committed to igniting change and fostering inclusivity. Together, let’s rewrite narratives, break down barriers, and build a world where every individual thrives, regardless of challenges they may face. Join me on this transformative journey and discover the boundless potential that awaits.

Let’s explore the remarkable impact we can create together!

Thrive!

Kristin

fox29 logo
TEDx logo
Comcast logo
"Kristin is a passionate advocate for rare eye diseases. She is a recognized leader and often sought after for her insights and guidance. She has moved mountains for her community and continues to inspire many others that are working to achieve similar success." Nicole Boice, Founder, Global Genes

SEE Why Kristin is an In Demand Speaker:

Kristin’s Speaker Reel 2022

Kristin’s TEDx Talk in New York City

The Book that started it all…

Thriving Blind

This book will transform your idea of what is possible for people who encounter a devastating life event and will catapult your motivation to set extraordinary expectations for your own life.

Hey there! I’m Kristin. You’ll see around my website here that I smile a lot. It’s kind of my thing. I can find happy no matter the hell that is happening. I’m wired that way. However, there was a time that I couldn’t find happy anywhere in anything. It was when I heard the words, “Your son is blind.”

That little sentence was a sucker punch to my heart that knocked me down for a while. I was scared. Terrified actually. And honestly, I was pissed off. Blind? Are you kidding me? As if that wasn’t enough, my second child was diagnosed with the same blindness three years later.

A double dose of darkness.

Well, not exactly. Once I learned to SEE blindness differently, my life filled with light and joy… and my smile returned! When I stopped seeing blindness as a barrier and instead focused on addressing the real barriers (access to the right tools, etc) my fear, anger, and grief disappeared and I was able to enjoy the journey of raising three humans with unique purposes in this world.

I will help you through your challenge too.

I know what that unexpected sucker punch to your heart feels like. I can’t take your challenges away, but I can walk with you and give you the tools I use to come through that stuff brilliant, not broken.

NOTE: This site is being reconstructed to make your access to my tools a much easier experience! Please be patient with the construction process! If you can’t find what you need, please send me an email at SmedTalk@gmail.com

Picture of Kristin on TEDx stage. CLick to go to the full talk

tin and Mitchell on set of Fox Philly with show hosts Mike and SHelly.  Hosts are each holding a copy of the book.  CLick to see fulll interview