Speaking

Plainspoken. Lived.

I speak directly about growing up on the autism spectrum and building an independent adult life with ambitious goals. Audiences leave with a clearer, more human picture of autism — and practical insight they can act on.

Brendan Oakes seated at a wooden desk with arms crossed.
Topics

What I talk about.

From high school to adulthoodNavigating the transition to college and the workforce.
Equestrianism & focusHow becoming an accomplished equestrian taught me perseverance.
Bullying & disruptionRecognizing it, recovering from it, building resilience.
IndependenceManaging on your own — without the benefit of a "lawn mower" parent.
Disability & autism servicesWhat I've experienced, what helped, and what didn't.
Service dogsWorking with and getting the most out of a service dog.
Past clients & collaborators

Where I've spoken.

University of Virginia — School of Education and Human Development
Virginia Autism Hope Summit
Charlottesville Region Autism Action Group (CRAAG)
Supporting Transformative Autism Research (STAR)