Shifting Perspectives on Autism

Haley Moss is a lawyer, neurodiversity expert, and the author of four books that guide neurodivergent individuals through professional and personal challenges. She is a consultant to top corporations and nonprofits that seek her guidance in creating a diverse workplace and a sought-after commentator on disability rights issues.  The first openly autistic lawyer in Florida, Haley's books include “Great Minds Think Differently: Neurodiversity for Lawyers and Other Professionals'' (ABA Book Publishing; June 2021) and “The Young Autistic Adult's Independence Handbook” (Jessica Kingsley Publishers; November 2021). Her articles have appeared in outlets including the Washington Post, Teen Vogue, and Fast Company.

Donna is a Social Impact leader, International best-selling author, speaker, and course creator.  She uses her natural gift of rallying and inspiring people to ignite the spark of internal motivation through forward-vision thinking.  Her approach is based on behavior-changing and spiritual energy connections.  Donna says: "I am dedicated to creating a wiser and kinder world by making transformational education widely available.  I want everyone to have access to tools such as modern mindfulness, emotional awareness, and self-love regardless of financial, social, or physical challenges.  My purpose is to awaken compassion in our world.  I offer an unconventional approach to developing creative energy thinking bridging the vibrational connection to communicate on a higher level. The frequency of LOVE 528 htz. I help individually and collectively to bring awareness of our energy and actions to engage, respect, and include the collective mixtures of all". Join us as we embark on a journey to create some positive energy and experience the frequency that connects us all as a community!  

Alicia Trautwein is a St. Louis-based motivational speaker, founder of The Mom Kind, autism advocate, and autistic mother of three autistic children. Trautwein speaks on topics close to her heart like LGBTQIA+ rights, antibullying, autism acceptance, and mental health advocacy. Here at Neuroshifts we are huge advocates of self-care. We love to bring on special guests who have first hand experiences in the journey through Neurodiversity and who love to promote the importance of self-care.  Join this special episode of GZT where Alicia will be giving you all the insider secrets to creating a self-care routine that actually works.

Gopika is the Author of Beyond the Blue: Love, Life, and Autism.  In this special session, we will be discussing her book and the importance of a mother's self-care.  Beyond the Blue is a book that will inspire you to be a better person. Within its pages,  Gopika Kapoor describes her unique, yet universally shared experiences as the parent of a child with autism. Through the intimate stories of life with her son Vir, she immerses readers in shining moments and dark episodes, brimming with refreshing honesty, sparkling humor, and undaunted courage. Beyond the Blue is an indispensable guide for parents of children with autism, whether they are starting out on this journey or have been traveling this path for several years. It provides a road map for parents to negotiate the pitfalls and through the narration of her own experiences, a point of reference for what they might be going through. Above all, Beyond the Blue demonstrates the power of the human spirit to accept and overcome a seemingly unsurmountable challenge with positivity and love.

Sam Farmer is a neurodiversity community self-advocate, writer/author, public speaker and consultant for Floreo, a company that leverages virtual reality technology in teaching social, communication and other life skills for neurodiverse individuals. Diagnosed later in life as autistic, he writes blogs and articles, records coaching videos and podcasts, and presents at conferences and support groups, sharing stories and thoughts as to how one can achieve greater happiness and success in the face of challenge and adversity. A Long Walk Down a Winding Road - Small Steps, Challenges, & Triumphs Through an Autistic Lens is his first book. From the unique perspective of someone on the autism spectrum comes a book about working to carve out a better life in the face of challenge and adversity. Interwoven with true stories of personal hardships and triumphs, A Long Walk Down a Winding Road offers ideas and insights aimed at inspiring and empowering the reader to enhance the quality of life. It also exposes what it can feel like to be autistic, as told by somebody who actually walks in these shoes. Don't miss this special session where we will discuss Sam's book and his path through what we call the Green Zone.  Sharing inspiring stories such as these is part of our mission to show our community that no matter what challenge we are presented with, there is always a path to happiness, hope, and empowerment! 

Maija is the founder of Appreciate U.  Creator, uplifter, and world traveler, Maija specializes in bringing confidence to all of those who surround her. A student of self-improvement since the age of 10, Maija has compiled the most effective tricks she's learned over the last 24 years to create lasting and authentic happiness.  With Appreciate U, she is helping people recognize themselves as the powerful masterpiece they are.  In this session, we will be discussing:  The connection about how we treat ourselves and how that can translate to how we treat others.   How self-love and self-respect can directly affect the way others treat you.  The importance of self-love and self-respect. Identify the things that might keep us from loving ourselves and what we can do to change them. 

Krystine, founder  of  The Compass Therapeutics & Wellbeing has been a renowned Holistic Practitioner since 1998.  They bring a unique approach to teaching and healing — one that is focused on self-inspiration and which embodies the physical, spiritual, and emotional aspects of well-being.  With a holistic approach, Krystine and her team offer the luxury spa services you may be familiar with but also unique therapeutics to educate and encourage wellness through their Whole Health Approach. Whether you are experiencing pain or want to improve your physical and mental well-being, The Compass Therapeutics & Wellbeing provides a unique approach to achieving and maintaining your optimal health.  "Since the first day we opened our doors, our guests have sought out our insights and expertise. Let us show you the way to your best self"-Krystine Vicky and Krystine will be hosting a special evening where they will be discussing techniques and practices to put your mental, physical, and spiritual well-being in a full Green Zone state of happiness and hope. 

In this very special session of Green Zone Talks we will be speaking with Arlo and how he has implemented a "Neuro-Ready" work initiative.  He will be discussing his experience in hiring one of Neuroshifts' former students and the beneficial and uplifting results this has contributed to his business.  This inspiring success story of a young man being given an employment opportunity is one you won't want to miss!  Arlo and his State Farm team are taking initiatives to expand the awareness of how beneficial the contributions of a Neurodiverse individual can be to all businesses. This story is a true testament of how everyday individuals can create exponential shifts towards the well-being of the Neurodiverse community!  In addition to his efforts in the inclusivity of Neurodiversity in his workplace, Arlo is also the owner of SwitchOn Coaching.  His team combines cognitive behavioral therapy and science-based nutrition to create a revolutionary transformation process that has reached thousands and is changing lives daily.  SwitchOn Coaching encompasses the overall desire of those who are looking to better their state of well-being. 

In this conversation, we will be exploring some of the challenges to bringing your personal brand to work for the neuro-diverse community, and how you can find the space to OWN your personal brand that allows you to be proud of your unique neuro-type and bring it to work proudly.

AnnaLaura Brown is an Health Coach, Author, and Autism Advocate.  She got her diagnosis of Autism later in life, but it has never stopped her from using her unique talents and interests to achieve her purpose in life.  AnnaLaura has had a special interest as it relates to physical health and diets because of her own journey with experiencing a lot of challenges in this area.  Her mission is now to help others achieve better physical well-being.  Listen as she shares her personal journey through employment, independence and physical well-being.

Stephanie is the mother of three children and she received the official diagnosis of Autism for her daughter at the age of six.  Like many who share this journey, Stephanie spent several years in the not so good feeling place that we call the “Red Zone.”  However, one day, Stephanie decided to take her children on a trip and get away from it all.  While in her travels, something happened to help her to see her daughter in a whole new light.  She then started her mission to help other parents understand Autism and care for themselves as well as their child.  Tune in to learn more.  

Daniel Morgan Jones is an influencer and advocate within the Autism Community.  He was diagnosed with Autism at the age of 26.  Today, he uses overcoming the challenges associated with the diagnosis to help so many others within the autism community.  Daniel is the UK's #1 online/information resource for Autism, ADHD, OCD, and Dyslexia.  He reaches millions as a YouTuber, public speaker, and author through his website and social media presence.  He uses all of these platforms to help increase the awareness and understanding around Autism and help others reach a place of self-acceptance and empowerment about their diagnosis.    In this podcast, you will hear Daniel share:    ·         How getting his autism diagnosis later in life affected him and how he overcame his challenges. ·         How his childhood interests and talents have evolved into his career as an adult. ·         How getting additional support during his college years helped him to graduate with a  degree in Chemistry. ·         How he reacted when he received his formal diagnosis at age 26, and how it helped him to create “stepping stones” for his career. ·         How he transitioned from college into becoming an advocate for the autism community. ·         How he reached the place where he feels life is working for him and not against him. ·         How his plans for the future include supporting the autism community in a variety of new ways.   It was such a pleasure interviewing Daniel and being able to highlight him as an Autism Shifter.   In talking with Daniel, he is a testimony of how our most significant challenges can help us shift to experiencing our most notable victories.  Daniel's path unfolded one step at a time, and that is such a testimony for so many within the autism community… that their path can evolve as well.   Check Daniel Morgan Jones out on his website www.theaspieworld.com or on his YouTube channel AspieWorld1.   From the Green Zone,   Vicky Westra CEO and Founder, Autism Shifts   Autism Shifts is creating a new perspective of autism allowing those in the community to live in the Green Zone, experiencing hope, joy and empowerment.  We do this through education, resources and connection opportunities. 

Becca Lory Hector was diagnosed on the autism spectrum as an adult and based on her own journey has become an autism advocate, consultant, speaker, and author.  In this podcast, she talks with Vicky Westra about her challenges with receiving an accurate diagnosis and how she has used her past experience to help so many others understand life on the autism spectrum, and the importance of focusing on creating the life you want.   To learn more about Becca Lory Hector, visit:  www.beccalory.com  

Jim Rathmann is a former Secret Service agent, retired homicide detective, decorated Army Veteran and investigative consultant - but his most important title is Dad. In this podcast, he talks with host Vicky Westra about his son's Autism diagnosis and his family's personal journey. To learn more about Jim Rathmann visit: www.JimRathmannTheCompany.com  

From her title of Miss Tampa to her designation as an Honorary Shifter Member, Rachel Barcellona is making history! Vicky Westra sits down with this beauty queen and activist to talk about how she's working to shift perceptions of Autism! A great example of what it means to be an Autism Shifter, Rachel chooses every day to live in the Green Zone, accepting her Autism diagnosis and celebrating her Uniquabilities.   To learn more about Rachel, visit her website at www.RachelBarcellona.com​ and follow her on social media. For more information about Autism Shifts or to register for our new Shifter Membership Program, visit www.AutismShifts.org or follow @autismshifts on social media.   #AutismShifts​ #BecomeAShifterMember​ #GreenZoneLife​ #ShiftersShapeFutures​ #JointheShift​ #Advocacy​ #Autism​ #ASD​ #AutismSpectrum​ #AutismSpectrumDisorder​ #AutismAwareness

Vicky Westra is the Founder of Autism Shifts, a 501(c)3 Non-profit Foundation and Artistas Café, a unique Social Enterprise whose mission is to employ individuals diagnosed with Autism. Prior to her current entrepreneurial role, Vicky worked at Tampa Electric Company for 22 years in various roles. Her last role prior to leaving TECO was Director of Customer Services and Marketing. Vicky has a B.S. in Business Marketing from The University of Tampa. She is married to Pier and has one child, Gabrielle (Gabbi). Gabbi was diagnosed with Autistic Spectrum Disorder (ASD) when she was four years old. Through their journey with her own daughter, as well as her experience providing training and employment for individuals with Autism, Vicky has developed a very comprehensive and unique understanding of the diagnosis. Vicky is now on a mission, through Autism Shifts, to provide greater education and understanding about the diagnosis and help communities re-imagine a new world for Autism. Autism Shifts' programs serve the four groups that are key to making this happen, which include: 1) individuals diagnosed with ASD 2) Parents/Caregivers/Families of those diagnosed 3) Businesses who want to become Autism Employment Ready and 4) the broader population. Vicky believes the timing is right and Tampa Bay is the perfect place to create the first Autism Ready Community model!    

Vicky Westra is the Founder of Autism Shifts, a 501(c)3 Non-profit Foundation and Artistas Café, a unique Social Enterprise whose mission is to employ individuals diagnosed with Autism. Prior to her current entrepreneurial role, Vicky worked at Tampa Electric Company for 22 years in various roles. Her last role prior to leaving TECO was Director of Customer Services and Marketing. Vicky has a B.S. in Business Marketing from The University of Tampa. She is married to Pier and has one child, Gabrielle (Gabbi). Gabbi was diagnosed with Autistic Spectrum Disorder (ASD) when she was four years old. Through their journey with her own daughter, as well as her experience providing training and employment for individuals with Autism, Vicky has developed a very comprehensive and unique understanding of the diagnosis. Vicky is now on a mission, through Autism Shifts, to provide greater education and understanding about the diagnosis and help communities re-imagine a new world for Autism. Autism Shifts' programs serve the four groups that are key to making this happen, which include: 1) individuals diagnosed with ASD 2) Parents/Caregivers/Families of those diagnosed 3) Businesses who want to become Autism Employment Ready and 4) the broader population. Vicky believes the timing is right and Tampa Bay is the perfect place to create the first Autism Ready Community model! In this show, you will get to learn first hand from Darcy a highly functioning adult with Autism why it's difficult for individuals on the Autism Spectrum to be successfully employed by businesses today.  You will also hear from the founder of Autism Shifts Vicky Westra, what their organization is doing to better prepare businesses to integrate this highly motivated, talented and skilled workforce.  

Vicky Westra is the Founder of Autism Shifts, a 501(c)3 Non-profit Foundation and Artistas Café, a unique Social Enterprise whose mission is to employ individuals diagnosed with Autism. Prior to her current entrepreneurial role, Vicky worked at Tampa Electric Company for 22 years in various roles. Her last role prior to leaving TECO was Director of Customer Services and Marketing. Vicky has a B.S. in Business Marketing from The University of Tampa. She is married to Pier and has one child, Gabrielle (Gabbi). Gabbi was diagnosed with Autistic Spectrum Disorder (ASD) when she was four years old. Through their journey with her own daughter, as well as her experience providing training and employment for individuals with Autism, Vicky has developed a very comprehensive and unique understanding of the diagnosis. Vicky is now on a mission, through Autism Shifts, to provide greater education and understanding about the diagnosis and help communities re-imagine a new world for Autism. Autism Shifts' programs serve the four groups that are key to making this happen, which include: 1) individuals diagnosed with ASD 2) Parents/Caregivers/Families of those diagnosed 3) Businesses who want to become Autism Employment Ready and 4) the broader population. Vicky believes the timing is right and Tampa Bay is the perfect place to create the first Autism Ready Community model!

Vicky Westra is the mother of Gabbi, a young adult with Autism who was diagnosed with autism at the age of four.  Because of the dismal outcomes Vicky was seeing for her daughter and the broader Autism community, she started a Non-Profit organization with a mission to create a new world for autism.  Vicky and her organization believe that those in the autism community have to join together to create opportunities and the necessary changes those on the autism spectrum to lead their lives on purpose.  This includes employment that matches their unique talents and interests.  Find out more about ways to get involved in this world changing mission!

Vicky Westra is the Founder of Autism Shifts, a 501(c)3 Non-profit Foundation and Artistas Café, a unique Social Enterprise whose mission is to employ individuals diagnosed with Autism. Prior to her current entrepreneurial role, Vicky worked at Tampa Electric Company for 22 years in various roles. Her last role prior to leaving TECO was Director of Customer Services and Marketing. Vicky has a B.S. in Business Marketing from The University of Tampa. She is married to Pier and has one child, Gabrielle (Gabbi). Gabbi was diagnosed with Autistic Spectrum Disorder (ASD) when she was four years old. Through their journey with her own daughter, as well as her experience providing training and employment for individuals with Autism, Vicky has developed a very comprehensive and unique understanding of the diagnosis. Vicky is now on a mission, through Autism Shifts, to provide greater education and understanding about the diagnosis and help communities re-imagine a new world for Autism. Autism Shifts' programs serve the four groups that are key to making this happen, which include: 1) individuals diagnosed with ASD 2) Parents/Caregivers/Families of those diagnosed 3) Businesses who want to become Autism Employment Ready and 4) the broader population. Vicky believes the timing is right and Tampa Bay is the perfect place to create the first Autism Ready Community model! Learn More Here: https://autismshifts.org/about-us/board-of-directors/

A mother's mission creating a new reality for the Autism Community! Join Vicky Westra and Kimberly Jackson, Esq., a leading Advocate for the Autism Community…and an Honorary Shifter Member, in this movement to replace fear and worry with hope and joy! Join the Shift Today: www.AutismShifts.org/become-a-member #AutismShifts #JoinTheShift #BecomeAShifterMember #GreenZoneLife #ShiftersShapeFutures #Autism #ASD #AutismSpectrum #AutismSpectrumDisorder #AutismAwareness

Your shift starts here! The knowledge, tools and processes to empower you, all in one place. Learn how you can become a Shifter Member - and create a new reality for the Autism Community! Join the Shift Today: www.AutismShifts.org/become-a-member #AutismShifts #JoinTheShift #BecomeAShifterMember #GreenZoneLife #ShiftersShapeFutures #Autism #ASD #AutismSpectrum #AutismSpectrumDisorder #AutismAwareness