Life, Values & Legacy: Our Chat with Levi Leyba of Mesa

We recently had the chance to connect with Levi Leyba and have shared our conversation below.

Levi, a huge thanks to you for investing the time to share your wisdom with those who are seeking it. We think it’s so important for us to share stories with our neighbors, friends and community because knowledge multiples when we share with each other. Let’s jump in: What are you most proud of building — that nobody sees?
I’m most proud of building the upcoming Autism Training Academy certification for educators and support staff. Most people do not see the hours of work behind it: the research, the conversations with advisors, the scripting, and the refining of each module so it is not just informative but truly usable in real classrooms, offices, and campuses.

This program grew out of a need I saw firsthand. Our students on the spectrum deserve more than awareness. They deserve understanding, practical support, and environments where they can thrive. I wanted to create something that would give educators and staff both the confidence and the tools to make that happen.

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Levi Leyba, and I am the founder of Autism Training Academy, a certification program created to equip educators and support staff with the tools and confidence they need to better support students on the autism spectrum. As a former educator and retired law enforcement officer, I have seen the difference that informed, compassionate training can make.

The program, which will launch with the Certified in Autism Support credential, was built in collaboration with an advisory team of educators, clinicians, and advocates. Each module is designed to be practical, relevant, and immediately applicable in real-world school and campus environments. What makes it unique is that it is not just about awareness, but about giving educators and staff actionable strategies that create more inclusive, equitable learning environments.

In addition to Autism Training Academy, I write and publish bilingual children’s books, which I donate to Title I schools at no cost. For me, this work is about more than professional development or literacy. It is about creating moments where every student feels seen, valued, and supported, whether they are holding a book in their hands or benefiting from a more inclusive classroom.

Okay, so here’s a deep one: What relationship most shaped how you see yourself?
The relationship that has shaped how I see myself the most is with my wife, Nycole, and our two amazing boys. They have been my biggest supporters and my constant source of motivation. Nycole has encouraged me through every new idea and challenge, and she has been patient on the days when my focus was locked on the computer for hours. My boys have had to put up with my long workdays, but they remind me why the work matters. Creating a more inclusive world benefits not just students in classrooms, but the next generation as a whole. Their love and understanding keep me grounded, and their belief in me pushes me to keep building something that will make a difference.

If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
I would tell my younger self that everything will work itself out in the end, even when the path forward is not clear. Do not let doubt stop you from trying. If someone else is already doing what you want to do in life, that is proof it can be done. Use that as motivation, not comparison, and keep moving toward your goals.

Alright, so if you are open to it, let’s explore some philosophical questions that touch on your values and worldview. What’s a belief or project you’re committed to, no matter how long it takes?
I am committed to supporting early childhood literacy, which is why I donate my bilingual children’s books to Title I elementary schools at no cost. I believe that every child deserves access to stories that inspire and represent them, regardless of their circumstances. I am equally committed to growing Autism Training Academy and helping raise autism awareness throughout the educational industry. Both of these efforts are long-term commitments for me because they are about building lasting change, not quick wins.

Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. Are you doing what you were born to do—or what you were told to do?
I am doing what I was born to do. My work with Autism Training Academy and my Young Series bilingual children’s books combines my skills (writing & illustrating), my passions (community & literacy), and my values (integrity, compassion, and impact). I have always been driven to serve others, to create resources that make a difference, and to open doors for people who might otherwise be overlooked. This path was not handed to me. It is the result of seeing a need, deciding to act, and committing to the long work of creating change in education and literacy.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://AutismTrainingAcademy.org
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/levileyba/
• Other: Non-profit: GACouncil.org | Young Series Children’s Books: YoungSeries.com