Shannon Urquiola
Founder of Not Your Average Autism Mom
Shannon Urquiola is the founder of Not Your Average Autism Mom, Inc., a national nonprofit organization that supports families living alongside autism through education, advocacy, and community engagement.
She brings almost three decades of lived experience, speaking with honesty, humor, and heart about what it truly means to raise — and live alongside — a child on the autism spectrum. Her message is raw, real, and filled with hope—reminding families, professionals, and communities that autism is not the end of the story, but the beginning of a different one.
With more than 30 years of public speaking experience, Shannon has presented to:
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Media outlets and conferences, where she brings a grounded, hopeful voice to conversations about autism, family life, and caregiver well-being.
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School districts and educators navigating special education, inclusion, and family-school partnerships.
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Businesses and organizations who want to educate employees about autism and foster workplace inclusion.
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Autism and caregiver events, where parents and professionals alike benefit from her balance of practical insight and lived wisdom.
Shannon’s Media Kit includes her full bio, speaking topics, recent media features, podcast reach, and details on the CARE4AUTISM Family Support Program.
Her presentations are available in-person or virtually and can be tailored for educators, professionals, caregivers, or general audiences. If you’re a journalist, event planner, or organization interested in booking Shannon for an appearance, presentation, or collaboration — everything you need to know is inside.
Featured Media
Shannon recently appeared on News Nation Now to share her perspective during a national conversation about autism. This segment highlights the authentic, compassionate way she speaks about the realities of raising an autistic child—offering both truth and hope for families.
Above all, Shannon does want researchers to keep searching — because if answers can be found, it could change everything for the families who are coming behind hers. None of us planned this parenting path, and while we love our children fiercely, it would be a gift if future families didn’t have to follow in our same footsteps, spending decades searching for answers.
Shannon is the proud mom of two young adults. Her son, Jordan (29), was diagnosed with autism at the age of five. Today, she is his guardian and full-time caregiver. Her daughter, Maddie (27), has grown up alongside Jordan, giving Shannon a unique perspective on both the sibling and family experience. Together, their story is one of resilience, honesty, and unconditional love.
What Shannon Brings to the Stage
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Authenticity & Connection – She shares openly about raising Jordan, weaving in relatable stories that break down stigma and build compassion.
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Expertise & Experience – Beyond her personal journey, Shannon spent more than a decade as a Special Education Advocate, guiding families through IEPs, 504s, and educational challenges across multiple states.
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Coaching Perspective – As a coach and mentor (not a therapist), Shannon specializes in helping caregivers see what they can’t see—removing roadblocks, shifting perspectives, and finding hope in what feels impossible.
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Actionable Inspiration – Every keynote and workshop blends encouragement with real-life strategies, leaving audiences not only inspired but equipped.
Signature Topics Include:
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The caregiver experience: why supporting parents is just as important as supporting children.
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Living alongside autism: autism is a family diagnosis. Embracing the journey without losing yourself in it.
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Guardianship, adulthood, and transition planning: navigating what comes after 18.
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Inclusion & understanding: breaking myths and misconceptions about autism.
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Workplace awareness: helping employers better support families raising autistic children.
Shannon's advocacy and personal storytelling have been featured across national and digital media platforms, where she shares real, relatable conversations about parenting, autism, and family life. She brings her passion and experience to every keynote, panel, and presentation, leaving audiences encouraged, informed, and deeply moved.
