422. Empowering Voices: Sam Mitchell's Journey with Autism

Happiness Solved with Sandee Sgarlata. In this episode, Sandee interviews Sam Mitchell. In this enlightening conversation, Sam Mitchell shares his journey of starting Autism Rocks and Rolls, a nonprofit organization aimed at advocating for individuals on the autism spectrum. He discusses the importance of being a voice for the community, the challenges faced, and the tools he uses to cope with anxiety and social situations. Sam emphasizes the positive aspects of autism, challenges societal assumptions, and shares his wisdom gained through personal experiences. The conversation concludes with reflections on the importance of connection and support in navigating life's challenges.
Guest Bio:
Along with his NonProfit, Sam is a 19-year-old young man who is in college, majoring in media and entrepreneurship. He found his niche and love in podcasting in high school when he joined his high school's media club. Podcasting became his passion, and he started his own, Autism Rocks and Rolls. What started out as a hobby soon got the world's attention. Sam now wants to change the perspective of autism, destigmatizing the negativity that often surrounds this type of brain wiring. Sam is using his platform to first and foremost, help those on the spectrum or anyone that feels as though they do not belong because they simply feel "different." Sam wants to reach parents who might be terrified because their child was diagnosed with autism, someone on the spectrum that feels lost, a business owner that wants to bring motivation to his or her company, teachers that want to understand the emotional side of autism for their students, and anyone that needs something to feel good about themselves. Sam tells his story through motivational speaking. He also is building his business by asking more sponsors to jump aboard and offering several services. His favorite pastimes are, well, podcasting. He also loves dogs, spending time outdoors, spending time with his family, creative writing, blogging, zip lining, traveling, and watching WWE.
Takeaways
- Sam Mitchell started Autism Rocks and Rolls at 20 years old.
- The mission is to solve happiness for those on the autism spectrum.
- People with autism are often underestimated and excluded.
- Sam emphasizes the importance of being a voice for non-speaking individuals.
- He shares personal experiences of being bullied and excluded.
- Social media can be a double-edged sword for autism advocacy.
- Self-awareness is crucial for managing social interactions.
- Sam's mother supports his nonprofit efforts.
- Positive aspects of autism include creativity and unique perspectives.
- Connection with others is essential for personal well-being.
Connect with Sam:
Website: autismrocksandrolls.com
Connect with Sandee:
Website: www.sandeesgarlata.com
Podcast: www.happinesssolved.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/coachsandeesgarlata
Twitter: www.twitter.com/sandeesgarlata
Instagram: www.instagram.com/coachsandeesgarlata