Summer is nearly over! Make your August count.

Catch highlights from August 14, 2025, and get early access to October’s can’t-miss event with the author of "The Bipolar General."

Author

Spectrum Speaks
August 25, 2025

Upcoming Events

Hello and welcome to the month of August. As the end of summer approaches, new events and initiatives are happening.

Spectrum Speaks Florida and Behavioral Teaching Solutions are partnering with several companies and people to bring you topics relevant to the today's times.

From neurodiversity to mental health navigation to financial know-how, these events will inform and create a movement within our community.

Click the button below, scroll down to the Upcoming events portion, and register for your desired event.

Collaborative Initiative by Wendy Ingram and Belle Stikeleather

Dismantling the Stigma, Together

Who is Wendy Ingram?

Wendy Marie Ingram, PhD, is the Chief Executive Officer and founder of Dragonfly Mental Health, a global nonprofit dedicated to cultivating excellent mental health among academics worldwide. She is trained in Biochemistry & Molecular Biophysics and Psychology, received her PhD in Molecular and Cell Biology from UC Berkeley, and completed a postdoctoral fellowship in Psychiatric Epidemiology at Johns Hopkins. Wendy is a recognized global leader in mental health informatics, research, and advocacy. Her unique path allows her to seamlessly blend her expertise and knowledge from research, industry, and nonprofit sectors in ground-breaking ways to effectively and sustainably improve mental health literacy, culture, intervention, and implementation.

What is your definition of leadership?

Leadership is the acts and philosophy that motivate others to contribute to a collective goal.

What is you leadership style?

My leadership style is based on a philosophy of selfless service. I do not seek leadership positions nor take pride in obtaining or being granted them but rather assume leadership roles as an act of duty and loyalty to my community. When leading others, our shared mission is always the north star. I deeply enjoy empowering everyone to find and contribute their unique skills or insights to achieving a goal in collaboration with others. Deploying mentorship as a two-way street, teaching to independence, and fostering self-confidence and radical responsibility in those that I lead are key elements to my style.

Note from the Executive Director of Behavioral Teaching Solutions:

I'm grateful to walk alongside Dr. Wendy Ingram, CEO of Dragonfly Mental Health, as we continue to break barriers and dismantle the stigma surrounding mental health and neurodiversity.

Our recent Sarasota Community Lecture, Neurodiversity & Mental Health at Work: Coaching for Empowerment and Growth (August 14, 2025), served as a powerful reminder that awareness is only the first step — what we truly need is action, compassion, and collective leadership. If you missed it, click this link or the link below to view the highlights.

Wendy brings her brilliance as a scientist, global leader, and advocate—grounding her leadership in selfless service and empowering others to rise with confidence and purpose. I bring my heart as a coach, behavior analyst, and founder of Spectrum Speaks and BTS, building inclusive, neurodiversity-affirming spaces where people can thrive.

Though our paths are different, our values align: service, compassion, and a deep belief that mental health and neurodiversity deserve not just acknowledgment but genuine belonging. 💜

I'm excited to continue this momentum with our partnership with Jrpreneur Brunch for another collaborative initiative in October—benefiting Dragonfly and advancing this mission. Click this link for more information.

The work is just beginning. ✨

#DragonflyMentalHealth #BTS #SpectrumSpeaks #Neurodiversity #MentalHealthAwareness #InclusiveLeadership #CommunityImpact #BreakingStigma

Things You Can Do Before Summer Ends

Want to do something worthwhile? Let's explore different activities! Here are 3 simple yet interesting activities:

  1. Prioritize Sleep: Aim for 7-8 hours of quality sleep each night. Establish a relaxing bedtime routine to wind down and ensure a restful slumber.

  2. Hydration is Key: Our bodies are mostly water, so staying hydrated is crucial for optimal function. Carry a reusable water bottle and sip throughout the day to keep your energy levels up.

  3. Move Your Body: Even moderate exercise can significantly boost your energy. Aim for at least 30 minutes of movement most days of the week. Take a brisk walk outside, try a new fitness class, or dust off your bike for a ride in the spring sunshine!

Niche Interests

Spring cleaning isn't just about physical spaces! It's a great time to re-evaluate your eating habits and "declutter" your diet for optimal health. Here are some tips to get you started:

The most famous Peanut Butter & Jelly photo on the entire internet.

Limit Processed Foods

Processed foods are often loaded with unhealthy fats, added sugars, and sodium. Opt for whole, unprocessed foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins whenever possible.

neon rainbow

Embrace the Rainbow

Aim to fill your plate with a variety of colorful fruits and vegetables. They're packed with essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber that your body needs to thrive.

Workout

Sunshine Yoga Flow

Greet the spring season with this energizing 20-minute yoga flow designed to improve flexibility, balance, and strength. No prior yoga experience needed!

Healthy Recipe

Zesty Spring Detox Salad

This light and refreshing salad is packed with flavor and nutrients, making it the perfect way to cleanse your system and feel rejuvenated.

In Case You Missed Our Previous Events

  • If you missed it, you can click this link to view the highlights.

Share the Buzz Now!

Share the Wellness with Your Friends!

Men laughing by green valley

We're all in this together!

This newsletter provides a springboard for a healthy and happy spring season. Remember, consistency is key!

By incorporating these tips and tricks into your routine, you can cultivate a vibrant and healthy lifestyle that flourishes throughout the year.

Until next time :)