“We had the pleasure of having Russell Lehmann as a Keynote Speaker at the 2017 TAVAC Conference in Grapevine, Texas. His insight and transparency about his struggles and triumphs with autism were nothing short of inspiring. The candid account of his “baby steps” to success was a great way to motivate and rejuvenate teachers as they begin a new school year.”  /// Sandye Cox – Texas Association of Vocational Adjustment Coordinators (TAVAC)

“A very effective speaker!”  /// Dr. Julie Vargas – B.F. Skinner Foundation (Daughter of B.F. Skinner)

“Wow. I cannot begin to thank you enough for your AMAZING presentation. I received more positive feedback today than I have ever received about any of our guest speakers in the five years I have been here. You are a gifted speaker and I have no doubt that you have made a difference in how many of our staff members will interact with our kids, and with each other. It was wonderful to see the long line for your book. I look forward to the next one.”  /// Dr. Nancy Kelly – Upland Unified School District

“I was extremely impressed with Russell’s presentation to our Rotary Club. Russell engaged us with his personal story and poetry, the truth and the challenges of growing up with autism. He is an inspiring young man with a great message to help all of us better understand how to meet the challenges of life, to be more compassionate, and listen to those that are different than us. More importantly, he’s reminded us that we each have the power to change, become better, and love ourselves and those around us more fully.”  /// Ph.D. Greg Krause – Regional Transportation Commission of Washoe County

“Russell was a phenomenal keynote speaker for our annual conference. His poetry was personally moving to me, and the stories he told of overcoming adversity were highly inspirational to all of the people at our conference.   He really brought the message of gaining strength through admitting his weakness and pushing through adversity one little step at a time.  This is a message we all need to hear, particularly people affected by autism who have an even more personal connection with Russell’s story – Russell showed that he did not just say that message, but he lives it as well! My favorite part of the conference was actually where he admitted he still has struggles, and showed how he may have to recover from a breakdown and then go talk to hundreds of people. We had about 800 people at our conference, and after Russell finished speaking, I’m not sure there was a dry eye in the house. Very impressive young man with an inspiring story who I would recommend to anyone. His kindness and generosity and overall his honesty can help make anyone want to try to be better.”  /// Robert Peyton, Ph.D. – President, Autism Society of Wisconsin

“Russell was a powerful and dynamic speaker whose message was, ultimately, one of hope, unconditional love and personal empowerment. Through original poetry, spot-on quotes by writers, philosophers and other great thinkers, and an intimate look into an at times disturbing and frightening coming-of-age story, Russell skillfully engaged the silent and rapt audience. One of our attendees, who has very high standards, said to me, “you hit a home run with this one”. If you bring in Russell, I suggest you leave enough time for Q&A. As superb as his keynote presentation was, his patient, sincere and touching unscripted actions with our very diverse audience were priceless.”   /// Ned Andrew Solomon – Tennessee Council on Developmental Disabilities