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Welcome to the Autism in Black Podcast, hosted by Maria Davis-Pierre, LMHC.

 

In this episode, we're joined by Catina Jenkins, a dynamic TEDx speaker, autism advocate, and Founder and Principal Consultant of Catina Speaks.

 

Catina helps organizations build and retain great talent through inclusive learning strategies, leadership development, and people-centered workplace cultures that create real impact, not just good intentions.

 

Her advocacy journey is deeply personal. As the mother of a son with autism, Catina's experiences navigating systems, building support networks, and advocating for her child shaped the powerful message behind her TEDx talk, "Finding Community When You Need It Most." Through her work and storytelling, she highlights the importance of connection, belonging, and authentic support systems.

 

With her energetic delivery, thoughtful insights, and just the right touch of sass, Catina brings both heart and honesty to conversations about leadership, advocacy, and community building. This episode reminds us that none of us are meant to navigate life or parenting alone.

 

In This Episode:

Catina shares how building strong support systems transformed her journey as a parent and advocate. She speaks openly about the power of community, the courage it takes to accept help, and why kindness and grace are essential for navigating life's challenges.

 

Listeners will explore:

Why Building Your Village Matters

How community support can provide strength, perspective, and encouragement during difficult moments. No one should have to carry life's challenges alone.

Accepting Help as a Strength

Why asking for and receiving support is not a weakness, but an important part of connection, healing, and growth.

Leading with Grace and Kindness

How compassion and empathy help sustain us through challenging seasons, and why we never truly know what others may be navigating behind the scenes.

 

About Catina Jenkins

Catina Jenkins is a TEDx speaker, autism advocate, and Founder and Principal Consultant of Catina Speaks, where she helps organizations build stronger, more inclusive workplaces through leadership development, learning strategies, and culture transformation.

Her work centers on people-first leadership and meaningful connection, drawing from both her professional expertise and personal experiences as a mother advocating for her autistic son.

Through speaking, consulting, and storytelling, Catina inspires individuals and organizations to move beyond performative ideas and create environments where people genuinely feel supported, valued, and able to thrive.

When she's not speaking or consulting, Catina enjoys building her own village of friends, discovering new restaurants, and spending quality time with Netflix because balance is everything.

 

Connect with Catina Jenkins

🌐 Website: CatinaSpeaks.com

📸 Instagram: @catinajspeaks

 

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Together, we continue building a more inclusive, affirming, and supportive community.