We had the good fortune of connecting with Lia McCabe and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Lia, what principle do you value most?
As an autism advocate, empathy is crucial because it allows us to understand and connect with the experiences of those on the autism spectrum and their caregivers. Empathy bridges the gap of isolation and misunderstanding, fostering inclusivity and support. Through empathy, we listen without judgment, see beyond stereotypes, and appreciate the unique strengths of autistic individuals. It drives us to kindly educate others, challenge biases, and advocate for necessary accommodations and resources. Empathy transforms our approach to education, employment, and social interactions, ensuring meaningful inclusion and empowerment. For me, empathy is the foundation of a compassionate society. It enables us to create environments where autistic individuals are valued, supported, and embraced.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I consider podcasting my art and host the Embracing Autism Podcast, which currently ranks in the top 2% globally among over 3 million podcasts. I co-host this podcast with my husband, Matt McCabe, offering a unique listening experience for parents struggling to understand autism or navigating a recent diagnosis for their child. We started this podcast almost three years ago to provide support and resources to parents in need, and we’ve been overwhelmed by the stories from listeners who find our podcast helpful.

Initially, launching the podcast was challenging since neither of us had any technical or podcasting experience. However, our passion for supporting the autism community drove us to learn everything necessary to bring the Embracing Autism Podcast to where it is today. Creating and recording the podcast has helped us better understand our own autism journey and underscored the importance of giving a voice to parents of special needs children. The Embracing Autism Podcast serves as the ultimate resource for autism parents, guiding them not just to survive, but to thrive, after an autism diagnosis.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I am more of an introvert and likely to stay in and play board games rather than go out. I would perhaps consider taking my friend out to a small local coffee shop or the closest pizza place, but the most fun I have is typically at home having meaningful conversations over a meal or movie.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I want to dedicate my shoutout to my husband, Matt McCabe. His unwavering support, understanding, and empathy have been instrumental in my journey as an autistic advocate and for our autistic children. He has always been there to listen, to offer a helping hand, and to collaborate compassionately as we navigate the challenges and triumphs of advocacy work and raising autistic children together. His empathy and dedication inspire me every day and remind me of the power of supportive relationships in driving meaningful change.

Website: https://www.autismwish.org

Instagram: @autismwish

Twitter: @autismwish

Facebook: @autismwish

Youtube: @autismwish

Image Credits
Nataly Danilova

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