Adam Harris on Leadership, Legacy and Leaving AsIAm

Adam Harris is one of Ireland's most recognised Autistic advocates and the CEO and founder of AsIAm - Ireland's Autism Charity . In this deeply personal episode of *The Unfiltered Autistic Podcast*, Amanda McGuinness sits down with Adam as he prepares to step down as CEO of AsIAm and begin a new chapter as CEO of Social Entrepreneurs Ireland. Rather than focusing on policy or organisational achievements alone, this conversation explores the person behind the public role. Adam reflects on growing up as an Autistic child in Ireland, the unwavering support of his parents, the experiences that shaped his confidence and identity, and the journey that led him to establish AsIAm while still a teenager. Together, Amanda and Adam discuss: - Adam Harris' Autism journey and growing up in Ireland - The role his parents played in building confidence, self-belief and belonging - Why inclusion, relationships and high expectations matter for Autistic children - The story behind founding AsIAm - What it takes to build lasting social change - Leadership, advocacy and creating opportunities for future Autistic voices - Autistic identity, burnout, vulnerability and self-acceptance - Why Adam believes it is time to pass the torch to the next generation of leaders - His move to Social Entrepreneurs Ireland and his hopes for Ireland's future Throughout the conversation, Adam shares honest reflections on Autism, advocacy, leadership, family, education and creating a society where Autistic people are accepted, valued and respected. Whether you are an Autistic adult, parent, educator, therapist, professional, researcher or someone passionate about disability rights and inclusion, this episode offers powerful insights into authentic leadership, community change and the importance of believing in people's potential. This episode explores themes including: • Autism • Autistic Leadership • Adam Harris's early life and his parents unwavering belief in him • AsIAm - Ireland's Autism Charity • Autistic Advocacy • Neuroaffirmative Practice • Disability Rights • Inclusive Education • Autism Acceptance • Parenting Autistic Children • Autistic Identity • Autistic Burnout • Social Entrepreneurship • Inclusion • Community Leadership If you enjoyed this conversation, please subscribe, leave a review, and share the episode to help more people discover neuroaffirmative conversations about Autism and authentic lived experience. Follow Amanda McGuinness and [Little Puddins](www.littlepuddins.ie) for more evidence-informed Autism resources, professional learning, podcasts and practical supports for families, schools and professionals. #Autism #Autistic #AdamHarris #AsIAm #AutismIreland #Neuroaffirmative #AutisticLeadership #DisabilityRights #Inclusion #Parenting #AutisticAdults #TheUnfilteredAutisticPodcast #LittlePuddins