Speaking Services

Welcome! I’m Bridgette Hamstead, MS, founder and executive director of Fish in a Tree, a neurodiversity community center and consulting firm based in New Orleans. As an AuDHD (autistic and ADHD) individual with over 40 years of lived experience and professional expertise in neurodiversity, I am deeply committed to creating spaces of understanding, empowerment, and inclusion for all.

As a seasoned keynote speaker, United Nations panelist, and neurodiversity advocate, I bring an authentic, informed, and dynamic approach to every speaking engagement. Whether addressing a room of corporate leaders, educators, parents, or fellow neurodivergent individuals, my goal is to inspire connection, foster understanding, and spark meaningful change.

Why Book Me as a Speaker?

My speaking portfolio includes:

  • Delivering impactful keynote addresses at conferences, universities, and events.

  • Representing the United States as a panelist at the United Nations for World Autism Acceptance Day.

  • Guest appearances on podcasts, television interviews, and media outlets.

  • Speaking at corporate trainings, schools, and nonprofit events.

  • Serving as a thought leader on conference panels focused on neurodiversity, inclusion, and belonging.

Each talk is rooted in my unique intersection of lived experience as an autistic and ADHD individual, academic knowledge, and my leadership as the founder of Fish in a Tree. My presentations are both highly personal and deeply practical, offering audiences the tools and insights needed to embrace neuroinclusion authentically.

Speaking Topics

  • How to create truly inclusive spaces for neurodivergent individuals.

  • History, impact, and why it matters

  • Breaking stereotypes and addressing the gendered challenges of diagnosis and support.

  • Navigating life at the intersection of autism and ADHD.

  • Why many systems fail neurodivergent people and how to change them.

  • A guide for parents to empower their neurodivergent children.

  • Supporting neurodivergent students and adopting neuro-affirming practices in schools.

  • Advancing inclusion in hiring, retention, and workplace culture.

  • Addressing challenges such as burnout and suicide within neurodivergent communities.

  • Harnessing neurodivergent strengths for innovation and authentic leadership.

If you’re looking for a specific focus, I can tailor my presentations to meet the needs of your audience or event.

What Audiences Can Expect

Inspiration and Empowerment: I aim to challenge outdated perspectives while offering hope and actionable solutions.

  • Neuro-Affirming Expertise: I draw from personal experiences, professional expertise, and research to ensure my talks are both relatable and evidence-based.

  • Engaging Delivery: My presentations blend heartfelt storytelling, humor, and deep insight, making complex topics accessible and memorable.

  • Practical Takeaways: I provide concrete tools and strategies for fostering neurodivergent inclusion, advocacy, and allyship.

Book Me for Your Event

I am available to speak at:

  • Conferences

  • Corporate Trainings

  • Universities and Schools

  • Community Events

  • Podcasts, Webinars, and Media Appearances

If you’re ready to inspire your audience, foster inclusion, and reimagine what’s possible for neurodivergent individuals, I’d love to speak at your next event.

Fish in a Tree is an affiliated network of neurodiversity community centers and organizations across the US, headquartered in New Orleans.

Contact Me

For speaking inquiries, availability, or more information, please contact me through our contact page. Let’s create a conversation that sparks change and empowers every mind!

I look forward to partnering with you to champion neurodiversity, foster belonging, and drive meaningful change.