Meristem's Transformative Autism Program

In our latest episode, Eric Stewart, the Director of TAP and Work Skills at Meristem, steps in for Erin Shirm. We had the privilege of interviewing Grant Harris, a Chief Diversity Executive and advocate for neurodiverse men of color in the workplace, amongst other things. Grant sheds light on important topics ranging from neurodiversity to DEI initiatives. Regardless of your stance on DEI, this episode offers valuable insights. It's crucial to recognize the significance of integrating individuals with diverse skill sets like Grant into the workforce. His new adversity is a superpower. And by the way, if you watch the YouTube version, he is off camera and he explained why. Feel free to share your questions at [email protected] for a chance to have them answered in an upcoming episode with Erin and me. https://lnkd.in/gVMXDGtx https://lnkd.in/ghjs8jMt #Podcast #AutismAwareness #LearningAndDevelopment #Neurodiversity #workfocedevelopment #breakingworkforcebarriers #awakenthepossible Meristem's Transformative Autism Program Meristem Grant Harris, MBA, Certified Diversity Executive (CDE)?

J.D. Barker, a New York Times best-selling author renowned for his suspense thrillers, has achieved significant milestones in his career. Collaborating with author James Patterson and having two of his books adapted for television shows, J.D. Barker's work has captured audiences globally. Notably, he shares a late diagnosis of Autism, adding depth to his journey and perspective as a writer. Recently, I had the privilege of interviewing J.D. Barker for our podcast, alongside Erin. Our conversation delved into his creative process, inspirations, and the intricacies of crafting gripping suspense narratives. The insights shared by J.D. Barker during the interview shed light on his unique storytelling approach, making it a truly enriching experience for both Erin and me. Tune in to the podcast to hear Erin and me engaging in a thought-provoking discussion with J.D. Barker. The revelations and reflections shared by this talented author are sure to leave you inspired and captivated. Listen till the end for an insightful and rewarding experience. Hit follow to find your podcast platform. On YouTube you lease don’t forget to like, share, subscribe, and comment. https://lnkd.in/gkcxYcRm #Podcast #AutismAwareness #LearningAndDevelopment #Neurodiversity #workfocedevelopment #breakingworkforcebarriers #awakenthepossible Meristem's Transformative Autism Program Meristem #JDBarker #suspensethriller #latediagnosedautism

Happy holidays from Meristem’s Voices of Community-Neurodiversity in Life and Work podcast! Whether you're driving or flying, make sure to download our latest episode for some engaging content during your holiday travels. In this installment, we delve into a conversation with Ivon Perez from Goodwill of Silicon Valley’s Expandability Program. TAP, offers free state-wide training to assist employers in effectively hiring and retaining neurodiverse individuals in their workforce. The collaboration between TAP and Goodwill Stores highlights the importance of inclusive training initiatives. When Ivon reached out and asked if we would help her with some store training we said yes. Offer the TAP training to your leadership, yes. And the expandability program is already working with neurodiverse individuals and helping them get meaningful employment. During this episode, Ivon shares insights on her journey working with this diverse population, the CA Retailers Association's retail fundamentals training, and the fruitful internship partnership with Goodwill of Sacramento and Northern Nevada that she helped connect us with. Also, Voices of Community could use your help. We are also available on YouTube. Please like, subscribe, and share your thoughts in the comments. Your feedback is valuable to us! And we want to answer your questions. https://lnkd.in/gnWixQuG This episode is one in a series of Zoom interviews. More to come in January enjoy this holiday season! #Podcast #AutismAwareness #LearningAndDevelopment #Neurodiversity #workfocedevelopment #breakingworkforcebarriers #awakenthepossible Meristem's Transformative Autism Program Meristem Ivon P. Goodwill of Silicon Valley Expandability Programs Goodwill Industries of Sacramento Valley & Northern Nevada, Inc.

Starting a podcast with Meristem’s executive director, Erin Schirm, has been an incredible journey. The success we've achieved together in sharing the message of neurodiversity has been beyond my imagination. Grateful to Erin for providing us with this platform. Our reach extends globally, with listeners tuning in from the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, and Costa Rica, as well as across the United States, including California. Your support means everything. Find us on YouTube at https://lnkd.in/g7k9fSR2 to like, subscribe, and comment for more interactive discussions and answers to your questions. A special thank you to Erin Schirm, Eric Steward, and Taylor Oide Oide - our new marketing and communications coordinator at Meristem, and everyone involved in TAP for their unwavering support in keeping Meristem vibrant and thriving. Also Nancy Pryor our amazing grant writer. Thanks and look forward to more episodes soon. Our next one is great. You will hear from Ivon Perez Goodwill of Silicon Valley and their expandability program.

Another Wednesday another podcast episode. No guests this week, but me and Erin get into all things anxiety. This is a great topic to discuss. Everyone has anxiety, but what we have found overwhelmingly is that for people with neurodiversity it can show up differently in the brain and it can be crippling. Things that where neurotypical people may be able to move forward stop the neurodiverse individual in their tracks. https://lnkd.in/gwg7nbwD https://lnkd.in/gqH2z2jq As always don’t forget to follow us on your favorite podcasting app and like and subscribe to our YouTube channel. If you have Apple Podcasts you can even send us a text. Comment on YouTube so we can start a conversation with you. We would love to do a live Q&A Thanks for supporting #Podcast #AutismAwareness #LearningAndDevelopment #neurodiversity #anxiety #mentalhealth

I am thrilled to share our latest podcast episode featuring an interview with JP Patton, the director of the California Conservation Corps. Working on the Transformativw Autism Program at Meristem has been an incredible experience, especially collaborating with CCC on various projects. From a summer internship for our students to TAP training sessions, it has been a pleasure to engage with their team across different locations. Don't miss the opportunity to hear insights from their Director JP Patton in our interview - a truly enriching conversation! https://lnkd.in/gmQUEZHh https://lnkd.in/gKs5cy8F Don’t forget to like share and subscribe, all the stuff. Thank you for your support. #Podcast #AutismAwareness #LearningAndDevelopment #neurodiversity #californiaconservationcorps Larry Notheis Karen Harding-Chesmore Travis McCleary

??? Our latest podcast episode is out now! It's a special one featuring Miles Levine, a former Meristem student and my roommate. Miles, one of my first friends at Meristem, has always stood out for his kindness and unwavering passion for hard work. I'm so proud of him for overcoming his anxiety to join us on the podcast - a huge achievement! ?? ?? Miles' journey is truly inspiring. With support from TAP and Meristem, he has landed multiple job opportunities. His dedication has not only transformed the Meristem garden but has also led to exciting career prospects. ???? Update: Following the episode’s recording, Miles secured a full-time role at Goodwill Sacramento Valley & Northern Nevada's Roseville store, thanks to our partnership. A big shoutout to Brenda Pate, Director of Workforce Development, and Matthew Sahota, West Roseville store manager, for their invaluable support! ?? Buzzsprout-Don’t forget to hit the follow button in the upper right corner. You can also text us now and ask us any questions. YouTube -don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe. Hit that notification bell to be notified when we release new episodes and other content. https://lnkd.in/gmx_PNQe https://lnkd.in/gWDDbb8w #Podcast #Inspiration #CareerJourney #SuccessStory #Partnership #Congratulations #AutismAwareness #LearningAndDevelopment #neurodiversity Miles Levine Goodwill Industries of Sacramento Valley & Northern Nevada, Inc. Matthew Sahota Brenda Pate

Hello, everyone! ?? As we celebrate National Disability Employment Awareness Month, I'm thrilled to share some exciting upcoming events where Meristem’s Transformative Autism Program will be present throughout October. ?? Save the dates: - Wed, Oct 9: PRIDE disability job fair at Safe Credit Union Convention Center in downtown Sacramento, CA from 11 AM to 3 PM. Meristem's admissions team will be here too. - Sun, Oct 13: Best Buddies National Disability Employment Awareness Month event at A Seat At The Table Bookstore in Elk Grove, CA from 11:30 AM to 4:30 PM. I'll be on a panel from 12:30 to 1:30 PM. - Sat, Oct 26: Purple Tree Cafe’s Disability Employment Awareness Month celebration at Delta of Venus Cafe in downtown Davis, CA from 6-9 pm. I’ll be tabling with Meristem’s very own volunteer and events coordinator Twyla Teitzel. If you just so happened to be attending the Supported Life Conference in Sacramento, CA at the Wyndham Sacramento hotel on Thursday, October 17 and or Friday, October 18, I will be having a table. Also, October 18 through October 20 if you happen to be attending the TACA conference in Costa Mesa, CA, Meristem’s admissions team will be tabling. More to come in December, including Meristem admissions team tabling at the autism/Developmental Disabilities conference on December 7th at Stanford University. Don't miss these opportunities to engage and support this important cause. See you there! #DisabilityEmploymentAwarenessMonth #InclusionMatters ??? [Link to the event: https://lnkd.in/g2Tv7T8D] #PRIDEIndustries #JobFair #AutismAwareness #BestBuddies

Hello, it's National Disability Employment Awareness Month, and even California Governor Gavin Newsom has recognized it! ?? Perfect timing as we have a new podcast episode out. Erin is absent this time, but I had an insightful chat with former Meristem alumni, Brandon Mark. Brandon shares his inspiring journey post-Meristem, successfully balancing work and college life. ???What's truly remarkable is that Brandon now lives independently with two other former Meristem alumni. ?? Since we recorded the episode, Brandon has seized a fantastic opportunity as a hospitality major at Cal State Sacramento. He participated in the Disney College Program in Florida, putting his outstanding hospitality skills and customer service to the test daily https://lnkd.in/gwk3SFYb

Hello, it's National Disability Employment Awareness Month, and even California Governor Gavin Newsom has recognized it! ?? Perfect timing as we have a new podcast episode out. Erin is absent this time, but I had an insightful chat with former Meristem alumni, Brandon Mark. Brandon shares his inspiring journey post-Meristem, successfully balancing work and college life. ??? What's truly remarkable is that Brandon now lives independently with two other former Meristem alumni. ?? Since we recorded the episode, Brandon has seized a fantastic opportunity as a hospitality major at Cal State Sacramento. He participated in the Disney College Program in Florida, putting his outstanding hospitality skills and customer service to the test daily. ?? If you hit the follow button in the upper right corner, you can select your podcasting platform. #NationalDisabilityEmploymentAwarenessMonth #PodcastEpisode #SuccessStory #HospitalityIndustry #DisneyCollegeProgram #InspiringJourney #brandonmark