Michael Barton

He/Him

Autism awareness speaker and author

Michael is an experienced speaker on autism, Asperger’s syndrome, and neurodiversity. As a Senior Insights Analyst at Zapmap, making him one of just 31% of the autistic population in employment.​

Michael has delivered over 100 talks across the UK and internationally, sharing his lived experience of being on the autism spectrum. His talks highlight the strengths and positive aspects of being autistic, offering audiences a fresh, hopeful perspective and challenging outdated assumptions.​

Michael’s insights have been featured by a range of major media outlets, including Channel 4, the BBC, and *New Scientist* magazine. He also serves as a patron of CASPA - Life with Autism - a Southeast London-based charity that supports autistic young people through inclusive youth clubs and community activities.​

In addition to public speaking, Michael works with organisations to improve their Diversity and Inclusion (D\&I) practices, with a focus on neurodiversity. His work helps employers build more supportive environments where neurodivergent individuals can thrive.​

Michael is also the author of three books: 'It’s Raining Cats and Dogs, A Different Kettle of Fish', and 'What Has Autism Ever Done For Us?'.