Navigating Autism as a Church Leader | An Interview with Michele Portlock

Michele Portlock is a mother of four children living in Parker,
Colorado. She earned a bachelor’s degree in elementary education
from Brigham Young University and worked as an elementary school
teacher for two years before taking an extended sabbatical to raise
her family. Michele recently completed a master’s degree in
behavior therapy from Arizona State University where she developed
skills which enable her to help others navigate the autism
experience. Michele has three neurodivergent children, and has
spent countless hours researching and studying how to best provide
necessary and adequate resources for her children. This learning
sparked a desire in Michele to reach out and help other parents
navigate the autism spectrum in a meaningful way. At church,
Michele has served as a stake public affairs assistant director, in
a Primary presidency and a Relief Society presidency, and as a
teacher. She currently serves as the Relief Society president in
her ward. Highlights 3:45 What does spectrum mean in the world of
autism? 8:20 How can leaders help people that are autistic? Take
autism on an individual basis Each autistic person has different
needs 11:15 Autistic individuals don’t always pick up on social
cues. They can be very direct and honest, which could make others
feel uncomfortable. 13:00 Many but not all autistic individuals
have alexithymia, which is the lack of awareness of emotions. It’s
difficult to understand others' emotions. 16:00 Autism can be an
invisible disability 17:30 Michele gives advice to the parents of
autistic children and explains how she involves the leaders or
teachers of her children 22:15 Is autism genetic? 25:00 Leadership
and autism 30:00 Would it be possible for an autistic individual to
handle a big calling? 35:30 Autistic individuals take a more
logical approach rather than an emotional or empathetic one.
Sometimes they can come off cold or harsh but that’s just how they
think. It’s not them trying to offend. Learning to communicate with
these individuals is important. 42:15 Michele shares her experience
as a Relief Society president. Her number one takeaway is that we
won’t always connect with people but ministering is an opportunity
to learn, love and listen. 47:10 When we accommodate one, we
unknowingly accommodate many. We need to focus on inclusion because
it’s a way to show love. Links Podcast: Navigating the Spectrum
with Michele Portlock MichelePortlock.com Leading Those with
Special Needs | An Interview with Stan Beagley Read the TRANSCRIPT
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