428: Empowering Neurodiverse Young Adults with Lori Hull

The Startup Junkies Podcast

Summary

In this week’s episode of Startup Junkies, host Daniel Koonce sits down with Lori Hull, founder and president of Spectrum Independence Living, better known as SpIndL. Lori shares her inspiring journey as a parent of a young adult with autism, the struggles she’s faced finding support services, and her determination to create real change in her Arkansas community.

SpIndL was founded to help neurodivergent adults, particularly those with autism, bridge the daunting gap, often called the “services cliff,” that follows high school graduation. As Lori explains, many support systems available during school years fade away in adulthood, leaving families feeling isolated and young adults without the tools they need for independent living. SpIndL steps in to provide life skills coaching, job readiness training, social opportunities, and eventually supported housing. Their goal is to help neurodivergent individuals gain confidence, find meaningful work, and live independently.

Additionally, Lori highlights the power of community alliances, affordable solutions (including scholarships for coaching classes), and the transformative impact of social events like game nights. The episode offers practical advice for caregivers, educators, and business leaders about fostering inclusivity and dismantling barriers to employment and independence. SpIndL’s vision for the next five years includes expanding job support, building alliances, and eventually creating a neurodiversity-supportive community. Tune in today!

Show Notes

(00:00) Introduction

(04:11) A Need for Affordable Transitional Programs in Arkansas

(08:17) Guided Networking for Skill Development

(10:48) Navigating School and Job Challenges

(14:08) Startup Events and Opportunities

(20:30) Independence Academy for Neurodivergent Students

(23:19) Finding Light in Caregiving Obstacles

(26:15) Closing Thoughts

Links

Daniel Koonce

Startup Junkie

Startup Junkie YouTube

Lori Hull

Spectrum Independence Living (SpIndL)