Creating Cultures of Belonging with Michael Shoultz

In this powerful and soul-stirring conversation, I sit down with my dear friend and longtime colleague Michael Shoultz, whose journey of self-discovery, healing, and authenticity is both deeply moving and inspiring.

Michael shares how he went from following someone else’s dream to discovering his true calling as a teacher, coach, and advocate—especially for neurodivergent individuals. We talk about what it means to embrace our differences, how shame and silence can impact our well-being, and how honoring who we truly are can lead us to peace, purpose, and connection.

Together, we explore:

• What neurodivergence really means and why it matters

• Michael’s experience of growing up feeling “different” and how that shaped his path

• His courageous coming out story and the religious trauma he had to work through

• How understanding perceptual styles transformed his relationships and communication

• The healing power of mindfulness, meditation, and self-awareness

• Why embracing our authentic selves is one of the greatest gifts we can give the world

This episode reminded me how important it is to stay curious, stay open, and stay on the journey—even when it’s hard. Michael’s vulnerability and wisdom offer such a beautiful mirror to anyone who has ever felt unseen or disconnected from who they truly are.

Bio: Michael Shoultz is a human potential architect, mindfulness guide, and advocate for neurodivergent individuals. With over four decades of experience in education, coaching, and leadership development and empowerment, he helps individuals and teams rise with clarity, confidence, and connection. Through his work with DISC and emotional intelligence, Michael empowers others to better understand themselves and each other—fostering cultures of belonging in both personal and professional spaces.

At the heart of his work is The Mind Garden—a peaceful labyrinth he created in his own backyard, inspired by seasons of personal transformation. Michael believes that real transformation begins within—but it doesn’t stop there. His work helps people deepen their self-understanding and bring that awareness into the way they lead, relate, and serve.. Whether he's supporting a neurodivergent individual, coaching a business leader, or leading a retreat, Michael’s approach is rooted in compassion, authenticity, and the belief that real transformation begins when we create space to truly listen—to ourselves and one another.

 

Connect with Michael: 

• www.SpiritRisingCoaching.com (website)
• https://linktr.ee/michaelshoultz (social media posts and couple free ebooks)
• www.AutismResourcesNetwork.com