Eric Garcia is a journalist and author who challenges the misconceptions about autism spectrum disorder through his own experience living with autism. In Eric’s book, “We’re Not Broken: Changing the Autism Conversation,” he explores how society can improve support for people on the spectrum through policy, education and healthcare.

In today’s episode Ken is joined by Eric to refute Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. 's harmful and scientifically discredited claims linking autism to vaccines. But more importantly, this episode is about changing the conversation around autism to focus on the importance of self-advocacy, inclusion, progress and respect.

For a deeper dive into today’s discussion:

We’re Not Broken Changing the Autism Conversation

Sen. Maggie Hassan questions RFK Jr. in confirmation hearing

In a Different Key: The Story of Autism

Neurotribes: The Legacy of Autism and the Future of Neurodiversity

The Closing of Willowbrook (DisabilityJustice.org)

Robert Kennedy Visiting Institutions in NY

Ken Cook Is Having Another Episode every other week.

@kencookspodcast

www.ewg.org

@environmentalworkinggroup

There are times when society needs to act, the government needs to act, and today we’re going to focus on how you can act for your health. It’s rare for physicians to help you live a healthier life by integrating the whole notion of environment health. But in today’s episode Ken is joined by one of the country’s leading medical and legal experts in environmental health, Dr. Aly Cohen – a triple board-certified physician in rheumatology, internal medicine, and integrative medicine.

Dr. Aly Cohen has a new book out today, “Detoxify, The Everyday Toxins Harming Your Immune System and How to Defend Against Them.”

We’re excited to share this episode May 6 – the day her book comes out – because there are many great tips that you can follow to make a positive impact on your life.

For a deeper dive into today’s discussion:

DETOXIFY: The Everyday Toxins Harming Your Immune System and How to Defend Against Them

Dr. Aly Cohen Instagram

Dr. Aly Cohen Website

Ken Cook Is Having Another Episode every other week.

@kencookspodcast

www.ewg.org

@environmentalworkinggroup

The U.S. faces a growing measles outbreak. At the time of this recording, there are more than 800 confirmed cases and at least three deaths, including two young children who were unvaccinated. These tragic losses were almost certainly preventable with the MMR vaccine, which is safe, highly effective and widely available.

Measles is one of the most contagious diseases on earth, and it spreads quickly in communities with low vaccination rates. Once nearly eliminated in the U.S., a rise in vaccine hesitancy has opened the door for its return, fueled by misinformation, especially since the COVID-19 pandemic.

The danger isn’t just measles. Falling vaccination rates threaten to bring back other serious, preventable diseases once under control.

In today’s episode, Ken talks with two leading experts on why it’s critical that parents and caregivers stay informed and make sure children are fully vaccinated — not just for their own safety, but for the health of our communities. The first segment is with Dr. Mike Koster, Pediatric Infectious Disease Professor at Brown University. The second segment features Jessica Malaty Rivera, MS, an infectious disease epidemiologist and award-winning science communicator.

For a deeper dive into today’s discussion:

Jessica Malaty Rivera, MS

Michael P Koster, Professor of Pediatrics, Clinician Educator

Kennedy, in His Own Words: Flu, Diabetes, Autism and More (NYTimes, January 2025)

Thimerosal and Vaccines (FDA.gov)

The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia Vaccine Education Center

Ken Cook Is Having Another Episode every other week.

@kencookspodcast

www.ewg.org

@environmentalworkinggroup