Michael Barton

TEDx Oxford Speaker on Autism and Neurodiversity & Patron of CASPA

  • Loans Pricing Analyst for Hastings Direct
  • Author of ‘It’s raining Cats and Dogs’, A Different Kettle of Fish’ and ‘What Has Autism Ever Done for Us?’#
  • Featured on the BBC, Channel 4 and in The New Scientist Magazine
  • Former President of the University of Surrey Judo Club

Discover Michael Barton’s biography of published work below.

Michael Barton
It’s Raining Cats and Dogs: An Autism Spectrum Guide to the Confusing World of Idioms, Metaphors and Everyday Expressions
Michael Barton
A Different Kettle of Fish: A Day in the Life of a Physics Student with Autism
Michael Barton
What Has Autism Ever Done For Us?: How the autistic way of thinking revolutionised the world

When Michael Barton is booked for events, they are known to discuss the following speaking topics:

Focus on the positive aspects of being autistic
Autism and neurodiversity in the workplace
Making the most of autism for teachers and parents
Why different is cool

Michael Barton is an autistic international speaker on neurodiversity, autism and Asperger’s Syndrome who is dedicated to prove to others similar to him they can achieve anything they want, as long as they know how to utilise their strengths. He has toured the UK giving speeches to schools, global pharmaceutical companies, charities, and everything in between speaking on how organisations can accommodate to those with autism, boosting their chance for success.

Like many who have autism, Michael thinks very logically and utilised his talents to study Physics at Surrey University. He has since forged a successful career as a data analyst, helping companies make sense of complex numbers to boost performance. During his time with BuyaCar.co.uk Michael helped company sales increase 4-fold, the want for quotes increased ten times and stock on the website doubled. All of this was in his first full-time job. Michael was then promoted to Ecommerce Data Analyst for Autovia Ltd and has since had roles as an Acquisition Optimisation and Chanel Analyst for The AA. Michael’s most recent role is as a Loans Pricing Analyst for Hastings Direct.

Since 2010, Michael has been gaining recognition as a keynote speaker, able to use his experiences from life as an autistic person working, he shares his insights which are transformative to both companies and employees. He always aims to change the stigma associated around autism and neurodiversity by focusing on the positive aspects of being autistic, giving people an optimistic view of their future and helping them overcome any obstacles they may face. Defying stereotypes, Michael is the author of three highly regarded books which have sold over 15,000 copies and has given a TEDxOxford speech.

As the Parton of CASPA – Life with Autism, a charity for young people with autism, Michael is ensuring he spreads his positive message to instil confidence in them from an early age. Only 29% of autistic people are in employment but Michael is determined to increase this percentage. Part of the 29%, Michael shares the strategies which have worked for him in employment, and guides others on how to utilise their strengths. He also helps organisations in finding the right role for those who are autistic, benefiting both employer and employee. When looking for an inspirational speaker on autism and neurodiversity, able to give his audience actionable insights, look no further than Michael Barton to hire at your next event today.

Official Testimonials

Michael Barton is regularly booked to engage audiences at events, read their latest feedback below:

“What an amazingly inspiring afternoon listening to Michael Barton!

It has really made me reflect on the things I take for granted and just assume others to know or understand but also consider the way in which we use language

I found it so interesting to consider the point he made when discussing neurodivergence we can often start with the deficits and then discuss the strengths; yet for neurotypical we are likely to highlight the strengths and shy away from the deficits. This talk highlighted the need again to showcase everyone’s talents and strengths no matter their neurotype.”

Nicola, Assistant Headteacher, Billing Brook School Academy Trust

“Michael Barton is one of the worlds best autistic speakers and a personal hero of mine. What an honour it was to receive a connection request on #linkedin I saw the author of the amazing ‘Its raining cats and dogs’ at a launch 6 years ago and his wise and insightful words gave me hope for a brighter future for my son. You could say he was the start of my Neurodiversity journey. I stopped thinking how I could ‘fix’ problems and entered Harry’s world instead, concentrating on what he was good at and listening to what he was trying to tell me. We still use Michael’s books on our training programmes as they are just perfect when demonstrating the amazing literal element of the autistic brain. If you need a speaker, I can’t recommend this amazing professional enough. Warm, funny, insightful and articulate, if you do please invite me!”

Caroline, CEO at Creased Puddle Ltd

“Wonderful talk, I really appreciate your positive outlook! :)”

James, Autism Acceptance Week

“A great session. Michael engaged the audience by sharing his lived experiences and his effective use of humour. Most importantly he clearly articulated key messages. Everyone is individual; ensure strengths are valued and given opportunities to develop further.

If anyone is seeking a speaker I would highly recommend Michael.”

Karen, Headteacher, Billing Brook School

“This was a fantastic talk, and very insightful, thank you very much!”

Brands2Life

“Absolutely wonderful and fascinating insight.  Probably the most useful overview that I think we could have had.”

Paul, Chair, National Autistic Society

“This was a thoroughly engaging and eye-opening discussion of the topic presented with a mix of humour, self-awareness and candour where Michael shared a range of insights into his own life experiences.”

Jonathan, Finance & Strategy Director, Southern Western Railway

“Michael’s talk was both thoughtful and insightful. He unpacked a subject in an approachable and tactical manner. I learned a great deal about Autism while better understanding his perspective. Top Man!!”

Daniel, EMEA Implementation Specialist

“What I appreciated most about Michael’s talk was how he managed to discuss such a vast array of problems that people with Autism face whilst answering the question of how we can be more accommodating and help.”

Dominique, Enterprise Marketing Specialist

To enquire about Michael Barton for your event or corporate function, simply contact us via agent@diversity-inclusion-speakers.com or call a booking agent on 0203 9816 297.