Our keynote speaker, Russell Lehmann, is an award-winning and internationally recognized motivational speaker, poet, author and advocate – who also happens to have autism. Undiagnosed with his condition until the age of 12, Russell has endured some of the most difficult obstacles one can experience in life. He illustrates his message of endurance through his experiences and stories, calling others to rise above their challenges, and to be their very bests. Russell’s words have been featured in USA Today, LA Times, NPR, Yahoo! News, Success Magazine and are archived in the Library of Congress. Russell uses his platform, compassion, and deeply personal stories to help others understand and overcome life’s perceived obstacles, while also advocating for those with mental health and invisible disabilities. Read full bio.