Programs
We cover confidence, executive functioning, job prep, and social skills in a live, supportive group format. Includes built-in parent support.
Get a checklist of key life skills, weekly routines, and one of the top strategies to improve communication with your child.
We've moved to a new home β visit IdealMindsCoaching.com for our latest programs and coaching.

We've Rebranded
Autism Independence Academy has a new home. Same mission, same coaching, same commitment to your young adult's independence β now at IdealMindsCoaching.com.
Visit IdealMindsCoaching.com


Our programs are designed by experts who have years of experience.
We cover confidence, executive functioning, job prep, and social skills in a live, supportive group format. Includes built-in parent support.
Bite-sized learning on topics perfect for learning at their own pace between coaching sessions.
Whether your young adult is just getting started or needs extra support navigating life, school, or work, our coaching provides structured, encouraging guidance tailored to their needs.

We are a team of transformational coaches dedicated to empowering autistic young adults and their parents. Together, we break free from stagnation, ignite confidence, and create a compelling future. Through personalized 1:1 sessions, dynamic online programs, and supportive group coaching, we conquer anxiety, overcome depression, and cultivate a resilient identity of achievement and self-sufficiency, ultimately leading to independence.
Visit IdealMindsCoaching.com to explore our current coaching and programs.

Hello, my name is Blake Baumann and I specialize in helping people with high functioning autism to unleash their genius and excel at managing the world around them so that they can live an extraordinary life.
Autism came into my life at age 36 when my mini-me, my son, was diagnosed with it. For several years I denied it, not only for myself but also for my son. I even made sure my son's school didn't receive the diagnosis because I didn't want my son treated any differently from other children because I knew the world wouldn't. My wife, who worked in education and is the original one who pointed out that my son and I both had ASD, tried bringing up the conversation several times after the official diagnosis to which I would quickly shut her down.
The truth is I thought it would make me less of a person. I had worked extremely hard to overcome the many challenges that I faced in childhood and as an adult β from social anxiety, communication awkwardness, sensory issues, and developing relationships β to be an executive leader, speaker, husband, and father. Over the next few years with the help of my incredible wife, I was able to see all the things I achieved as a pathway to help other people with autism.
Through AIA, it's my mission to help you and your loved ones to embrace and recognize what autism is⦠not a syndrome or disorder but a gift. Let me help you unleash your gift to live a truly extraordinary life.

As parents, we want nothing more than to see our young adults happy, confident, and capable of living life on their own.
October 24, 2025 β’ 2 min read

The neurodivergent journey can feel overwhelming β but it doesn't have to. Here are 5 proven ways to reduce stress and find calm while supporting your young adult.
October 08, 2025 β’ 1 min read

Learn why traditional parenting approaches often backfire with PDA and discover strategies that actually help your young adult feel safe, seen, and in control.
October 08, 2025 β’ 4 min read

Before your young adult can take consistent action, they must first see themselves differently. Learn how to rebuild identity as the foundation for growth.
October 08, 2025 β’ 1 min read

They're bright but unmotivated β and you're running out of ideas. Here's how to reframe βstucknessβ and get progress back on track using micro-actions.
October 08, 2025 β’ 1 min read

The 3-step coaching framework to help your young adult discover the right kind of work, prepare for interviews, and stay motivated once hired.
October 08, 2025 β’ 1 min read
Your young adult's journey towards independence starts today.