Presenter: Cody Clark
Description:
What if magic, laughter, and storytelling could change the way we see well-being? In this unique presentation, autistic self-advocate and magician Cody Clark invites participants into “a different way of thinking” through a performance that blends comedy, magic, and personal narrative. Attendees will be entertained while also gaining insight into the challenges, strengths, and coping strategies Cody has cultivated throughout his life. This session, part of the Well-Being Webinar Series with the National Center for START Services®, highlights the importance of well-being. Cody’s story emphasizes how creativity can foster purpose, meaning, and joy - not only for autistic people, but for everyone!
Learning Objectives:
By the end of this session, participants will be able to:
- Recognize how magic, comedy, and storytelling can be used to share lived experiences and build understanding.
- Describe some of the challenges and coping strategies that autistic people may use in everyday life.
- Identify ways creativity and self-advocacy can support well-being.
Speaker Bio
Cody calls Louisville, Kentucky home. He was diagnosed as autistic at 15 months and his parents were told he'd never walk, talk, get married, have a job, and more. He overcame these expectations while developing an understanding and empathy for the autism community.
At the age of 11, he was brought on stage at a magic show and was so inspired that he decided to pursue magic. He joined the Louisville Magic Club, studied at the Jeff McBride Magic & Mystery School in Las Vegas, and used his Bachelors degree in Marketing and Theatre Arts from the University of Louisville to launch his business. Cody creates a truly unique style of magic by blending his own stories with his passions for theatre, stand-up comedy, classic country music, storytelling, and autism advocacy.
Cody’s biggest honors include sharing the Louisville Palace stage with magic legend Lance Burton, being named the Society of American Magicians Rising Star of Magic, and being named a Kentucky Colonial by Gov. Andy Beshear specifically for his efforts in blending magic and disability advocacy.
Read more at www.codyclarkmagic.com
This free event is part of the Well-Being Webinars offered by the National Center for START Services®.
