How Autism Turned My Greatest Challenge into my Life’s Mission to Help 1,000,000 Families Launch into Independence
The Awakening
When Autism Officially Entered My Life
Autism officially came into my life at age 36 — not through a headline, not through my work, but through a diagnosis that forever changed how I saw myself and my family.
That day, both my son and I were officially diagnosed with what was then called Asperger’s Syndrome (now known as Autism Spectrum Disorder).
For several years,
I denied it. Not just for myself, but for my son
My wife — who worked in education and was the first to recognize the signs — tried to bring it up many times after our diagnosis. Each time, I shut the conversation down.
The truth? I thought it would make me less of a person
I had worked my entire life to overcome so many challenges — social anxiety, communication awkwardness, sensory overload, and the constant struggle to fit in. I had learned to “mask,” to blend in, to survive in a world that wasn’t built for how I process information.
Admitting I was autistic felt like losing ground I had fought so hard to gain. But what I didn’t realize then… was that accepting it would become my greatest victory.
The Turning Point
From Denial to Understanding
Eventually, I stopped running from the truth
I began to see that autism wasn’t a limitation — it was the lens through which I saw the world.
It’s what gave me my ability to notice patterns others miss. It’s what fueled my curiosity, empathy, and persistence. It’s what made me…me.
And when I looked at my son, I realized something profound: He didn’t need to be “fixed.” He needed to be understood, empowered, and guided.
That realization changed everything.
The Discovery
Building a Path That Actually Works
Like most parents, I wanted to help my son succeed — but the world wasn’t giving us a roadmap that worked.
The systems in place were designed for “typical” learners. The advice was generic, often confusing, and rarely effective for neurodiverse minds.
So, I decided to create my own
I drew from psychology, neuroscience, and real-world coaching — blending what I had learned as both a parent and as someone living it firsthand.
That process became what I now call The I.D.E.A.L. Launch System™ — a practical, compassionate framework that helps parents and young adults move from fear and frustration to confidence and independence.
Because independence doesn’t begin with a checklist. It begins with Identity.
When autistic young adults understand who they are — when they feel safe, seen, and supported — everything changes.
The Discovery
Building a Path That Actually Works
Like most parents, I wanted to help my son succeed — but the world wasn’t giving us a roadmap that worked.
The systems in place were designed for “typical” learners. The advice was generic, often confusing, and rarely effective for neurodiverse minds.
So, I decided to create my own
I drew from psychology, neuroscience, and real-world coaching — blending what I had learned as both a parent and as someone living it firsthand.
That process became what I now call The I.D.E.A.L. Launch System™ — a practical, compassionate framework that helps parents and young adults move from fear and frustration to confidence and independence.
Because independence doesn’t begin with a checklist. It begins with Identity.
When autistic young adults understand who they are — when they feel safe, seen, and supported — everything changes.
The Mission
Turning Pain Into Purpose
Today, autism isn’t something I hide from — it’s something I proudly lead with.
It’s the reason I’ve dedicated my life to helping parents and young adults navigate the path to independence with clarity and confidence.
Through my book the Autism Launch Plan, my company Autism Independence Academy, and programs like Launch to Life™ and the Independence Path Membership, I’ve been able to help countless families build a plan for success — one small step at a time.
But my mission is bigger than that
I’m on a mission to impact 1,000,000 lives — to change how the world sees autism and how families experience it.
Because autism isn’t a limitation. It’s a different way of being brilliant.
The Invitation
Your Turn to Launch
If you’ve ever felt the fear of not knowing what your child’s future will look like… you’re not alone.
I’ve been there. I’ve lived that pain. And I’ve seen what’s possible when families stop fighting autism and start understanding it.
Whether you’re just beginning this journey or searching for the next step forward, there’s a path — and I’d be honored to help you find it.
Let’s build your Launch Plan together.
The Autism Launch Plan
Schedule a Free Discovery Call
Join the Independence Builders Circle
Join the Autism Independence Academy – Parent Launch Community )
