Laura Hope Whitaker: The Joy Exchange

Bird's is delighted to welcome Laura Hope Whitaker on The Joy Parade Book Tour presented by Loverly Grey to celebrate her novel The Joy Exchange: Finding Life's Greatest Lessons in Those You Least Expect. Bring your copy—or buy one via the ticket link below—for a book signing, then continue the celebration in our café with a Joy Hour featuring Java Joy.

Brittany Sjogren (Loverly Grey) is joining The Joy Parade not as a passing participant, but as a committed advocate. She is using that platform intentionally to shine a light on people of all abilities, to amplify ESP’s mission, and to help spread joy far beyond the parade route.

About the Book

In The Joy Exchange, Laura Hope Whitaker invites readers into a world where belonging is the rule, not the exception. With over two decades of experience as CEO of Extra Special People (ESP, Inc.), she shares the transformative experiences created for individuals with disabilities and their families that have changed communities for the better.

From her humble beginnings as a 19-year-old running a non-profit, Laura shows how the very individuals our culture often overlooks have the most to teach us about love, leadership, and community. With warmth, candor, and humor, she challenges us to trade comfort for connection, hesitation for hospitality, and problems for purpose.

This is not just a book of stories—it’s an invitation. An invitation to see differently, love boldly, and discover that the greatest power we hold is delighting in the person right in front of us.

Because when you enter into the joy exchange, you don’t just change others you are changed too.

About the Author

Laura Hope Whitaker, M.Ed., is the CEO of Extra Special People, Inc. (ESP), a nonprofit transforming communities through belonging for individuals with disabilities and their families. Laura began as a volunteer and counselor in college and, at just 19 years old, stepped into the Executive Director role following the founder’s passing. Under her direction, ESP has grown into a nationally recognized organization with innovative programs like Java Joy and SEEABILITY.

​A passionate advocate and speaker, Laura has delivered a TEDx talk on inclusion and has been recognized as one of Georgia Trend’s 40 Under 40, the Atlanta Business Chronicle’s Most Admired CEOs, and UGA’s Alumna of Distinction. She has also served on the Georgia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities Board and the Oconee State Bank Board of Directors.

Laura holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees in special education from the University of Georgia. Beyond her professional accomplishments, her favorite role is wife to Joseph and mom to Owen, Finley, and Tate. Leaning in with love, Laura continues to inspire audiences to shift perspectives, seed hope, and grow joy-filled communities.

Know what’s Happening Next — before everyone else does.

Get App

Host or Publisher Bird's Bookstore