Autism and Vaccines: What the Science Really Says

Michael dives into one of the most sensitive and misunderstood topics in public discourse today: the rise in autism diagnoses and the persistent myths surrounding vaccines. Prompted by Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s recent pledge to “find the cause of autism,” Michael critically examines those claims and reflects on his own past interview with RFK Jr. He then speaks with Dr. Annette Estes, Director of the University of Washington Autism Center, to unpack the science behind autism’s rising prevalence, the role of genetics, environmental factors, and the impact of changing diagnostic criteria. Dr. Estes also firmly addresses the long-debunked link between vaccines and autism and explains why the public’s energy should be focused on early identification and support rather than fear-driven theories. This thoughtful and informative conversation offers clarity in a space often clouded by misinformation. Original air date 8 May 2025.