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Hear me speak here...
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Speaking
Mandy Casteel-Denney is a Neurodivergent parent, coach, speaker, educator, and advocate who creates space for deep understanding, connection, and growth—whether in homes, classrooms, or workplaces. With lived experience in a neurodivergent family and a background in coaching and education, Mandy brings a powerful blend of personal insight and practical strategy to every speaking engagement.
Her talks and workshops explore topics like masking, identity, inclusive communication, and supporting neurodivergent youth and adults. She weaves in storytelling, reflection, and real-world tools that help participants not just learn—but feel seen. Mandy has spoken at networking events, youth summits, and community workshops, including: A facilitated discussion at the Queer Youth Summit; A practical workshop for professional women on masking and self-expression; An interactive session for a local business networking group.
She’s calm, strong, and just a little scrappy—offering a refreshingly human approach to tough topics. Whether you're looking for a speaker for your conference, school, organization, or community group, Mandy delivers with clarity, compassion, and purpose.
My two signature talks:
🌿 The Power of Unmasking: Living and Leading Authentically
No matter where we are—at work, at home, or in our own ventures—we are often taught to mask parts of ourselves in order to fit in. But masking takes energy, creates distance, and keeps us from living in alignment with who we really are. In this talk, you’ll be guided through three powerful steps to begin reclaiming authenticity: recognizing the masks you wear, creating a joy list to reconnect with what truly lights you up, and finding safe places where you can begin to unmask. Together, these practices lay the foundation for living, loving, and leading as your authentic self.
🌟 Outside the Lines: Why Kids Need Nature Now
What if the most powerful tool for your child’s mental health and confidence isn’t another program or app—but nature itself?
In this eye-opening session, you’ll discover why neurodivergent kids are often the first to struggle in today’s fast-paced, high-pressure world, and how the outdoors offers a natural reset for their emotions, focus, and friendships.
You’ll learn how even small doses of outdoor time can reduce stress, spark joy, and help kids feel more connected—without adding one more overwhelming task to your already full plate.
If your child faces big feelings, attention challenges, or difficulty fitting in, this talk will show you how nature can be the lifeline that brings calm, confidence, and connection back to your family.
Don’t miss it—this perspective could change everything.
Mandy with Jen Gerardy June 13, 2025
For so many of us, especially parents of challenging children, we're caught up in the day to day grind of survival and meeting basic physical needs, and joy feels like a luxury or an afterthought. After all the chores are done, I'll find some time for my joy - maybe. Mandy Casteel-Denney joined me to flip that on it's head and talk about why you NEED joy and it needs to be a foundational part of your day to day life- and how that might be possible in the midst of the challenges of life.
