Autumn Bernhardt Bio
Working at the crossroads gives me a unique perspective that you will not find anywhere else. I have thrown hay to cattle in freezing temperatures and I have also worked with fish biologists on ecosystem protection. I have litigated state water rights and taught everyone from community college students to law students. Through Red Leaf’s consulting services, I look forward to helping clients meet the ever-changing moment.
My resume and life experience gives me a balanced insight into environmental and social dilemmas. In my work, I leverage 20+ years as a state and tribal government attorney, small-scale rancher, teacher, author, and speaker. After working on cases that span decades (and sometimes generations), I have learned a few things. Even necessary litigation can be costly, drawn out, and sometimes unpredictable. Now, I take a different approach.
I do not represent clients in a legal capacity but instead assist governments, organizations, and businesses to prevent and mitigate conflict through training. I also provide ongoing support through strategic planning and independent evaluation. Lastly, I assist clients as a third-party neutral to regain their power. Mediation, facilitation, and other processes often described as Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) offer a less formal and more creative means to reach settlement.
“Autumn has been a valued collaborator for several years, consistently demonstrating unparalleled research, knowledge, and professionalism. As an extraordinary educator and facilitator, Autumn possesses a remarkable ability to engage audiences from all backgrounds, professions, and age groups in a compelling way. Even when addressing potentially divisive topics, presentations foster respectful dialogue that honors all perspectives without alienating anyone. Workshop participants consistently praise the experience, noting the depth of learning, the thought-provoking nature of the material, and the overall enjoyment of the discussion.”
-Alicia Christensen, CIRES Center for Education, Engagement, and Evaluation