Currently in the U.S 80% of people with autism are unemployed or underemployed. Becoming an entrepreneur can help these individuals enjoy employment as their own boss and to use their unique abilities to impact the world. Professionals and educators will learn to empower people with autism and other disabilities to develop entrepreneur skills. Sandison teaches practical ways to build connections, market a business, and get first on Google. Individuals with autism will learn to use their strengths to accommodate for limitations, find a mentor, strength connections by the ability to delight clients, and pursue new opportunities. During the past 7 years, Ron has spoken live to 250,000 people, published three nationally books, and his nonprofit Spectrum Inclusion receives 10,000 views a month. Sandison shares the knowledge he gained from interviewing autistic entrepreneurs while writing his fourth book Autism, Growth & Transitioning into Adulthood.

In this in-depth, candid, and deeply personal interview with world-renowned autism expert and self-advocate Ron Sandison, Ron shares stories about some of his own mental health challenges with useful understanding and insight for those who struggle. Covering topics that include being bullied and assaulted by peers as a child and teen, to coping with anxiety, depression, addiction,, and even suicidal thoughts as an adult, Ron gives hope and practical advice for addressing mental health in autistic adults.

80% of people with autism experience depression, anxiety, or other mental health issues. Depression and isolation can lead to a hopeless complex. Sandison shares his own journey with autism and depression and how he overcame a hopeless complex by developing self-determination.

Ron Sandison works full time in the medical field and is a professor of theology at Destiny School of Ministry. He is an advisory board member of the Art of Autism and the Els Center of Excellence.

In this session, Ron Sandison, author, Professor of Theology, and autistic adult shares his life story to emphasize some of the unique strengths and needs that must be addressed to empower those on the autism spectrum for success across life's transitions.