Diagnosed with Autism, ADHD, and Tourette Syndrome, Murphy Monroe spent much of his early life masking his differences and resisting his identities while also managing a daily, lifelong battle with photophobia, a painful hypersensitivity to light that shaped how he moved through the world. Over time, he not only came to embrace these facets of himself but also transformed them into powerful sources of clarity, resilience, and connection.

Today, Murphy is the Executive Director of The Actors Gymnasium, a nationally treasured circus school and theater company. He has led a transformative turnaround by automating operations, expanding access, and guiding the organization through the pandemic into financial strength. He also owns the True REST Float Spa in Skokie, Illinois, where he has created a popular community healing space and become one of the most experienced floaters in the world. This gives him rare insight into nervous system regulation, mindfulness, and sensory accessibility.

Murphy’s leadership extends to civic life as a City Commissioner in Evanston, Illinois, where he champions disability access, inclusive public policy, and full ADA compliance. His work across nonprofit, entrepreneurial, and public sectors deepens his mission to build environments, public and private, where every person can thrive.

From boardrooms to classrooms, Murphy delivers powerful keynotes, workshops, and consulting engagements that blend storytelling, strategy, and systems thinking. Audiences leave with more than inspiration. They leave with tools to build cultures of belonging, unlock innovation, and lead with authenticity.