TBT | 8. Finding Strength in Adversity, with Russell Lehmann

*THROWBACK EPISODE* This conversation with Russell Lehmann was originally released on May 14, 2020. We are re-releasing it today in observance of Mental Health Awareness Month.  ----more---- Discover what’s possible when walls are broken down with vulnerability. Russell Lehmann is a motivational speaker, poet, author, and autism self-advocate. In 2018, Russell was awarded Reno-Tahoe’s “Most Outstanding Young Professional Under 40.” He has already published two books. The first is called Inside Out: Stories and Poems from an Autistic Mind, and the second is On the Outside Looking In. Russell leans on writing as an outlet for his pain. Stay tuned until the end of the conversation to hear him recite one of his poems.  Growing up as a social recluse with no one to trust, Russell decided to use the stories of his struggles to connect with an audience and initiate vulnerable dialogue. Public speaking gave him a purpose to be a voice for the unheard.  Russell travels the world spreading hope, awareness, and compassion, while also striving to erase the stigma and stereotypes associated with having a disability. Individuals diagnosed with autism are at a higher risk of developing co-morbid mental health disorders. Russell aims to shift society’s perspective on invisible disabilities.  In this conversation, we discuss: Ableism Identity labels What he's learned about himself through public speaking How he feels misunderstood How his obsessive-compulsive disorder impacted his life as a child How he copes with his symptoms today To learn more about Russell Lehmann and his work, please visit: The Autistic Poet.  ----more---- We appreciate your time. If you enjoy this podcast and you’d like to support our mission, please take just a few seconds to share it with one person who you think will find value in it too. Follow us on Instagram: @autismpodcast Join our community on Mighty Networks: Global Autism Community Subscribe to our YouTube channel: Global Autism Project We would love to hear your feedback about the show. Please fill out this short survey to let us know your thoughts: Listener Survey

Om Podcasten

Discover what’s possible when people impacted by autism inspire change and build community. Together with self-advocates, family members, educators, and international autism service providers, Rachel Harmon from the Global Autism Project explores stories of challenges and breakthroughs to extend the reach of human connection and remind people that they are not alone. Tune in each week for new episodes and meaningful conversations. For more information, please visit www.globalautismproject.org. Rachel Harmon is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst originally from California and currently lives in Barcelona, Spain. Rachel started her involvement with the Global Autism Project as a volunteer on a SkillCorps® trip to Uganda in 2018. Her role as Regional Coordinator has brought her to partner sites in Kenya, Rwanda, Saudi Arabia, Czech Republic and Netherlands.