17. Eugenics? RFK Jr, Autism Registries, and Anti-Vax Beliefs
17. Eugenics? RFK Jr, Autism Registries, and Anti-Vax Beliefs  
Podcast: The Tim & April Show
Published On: Mon May 19 2025
Description: On today's episode, Tim and April are joined by Jessica Malaty Rivera, an infectious disease epidemiologist and science communicator, who provides insights into the historical roots of science denialism and the rhetoric surrounding vaccines and autism, particularly in relation to RFK's controversial statements. The conversation emphasizes the importance of accurate science communication, the need for public health resources, and the complexities of understanding autism as a spectrum. Jessica on Instagram | @jessicamalatyrivera Jessica's Substack | Makingsciencemakesense.substack.com Chapters 03:59 Introducing Jessica Malaty Rivera 10:28 RFK's Rhetoric on Autism and Vaccines 14:17 The Dehumanization of Autism in Public Discourse 26:10 The Role of Public Health in Supporting Families 34:58 Debunking RFK's Claims on Vaccine Studies 40:33 The Wellness Industry vs. Big Pharma 54:01 Understanding Vaccine Ingredients and Misinformation 01:10:14 Ableism and the Language of Disease _______________________________ ⁠⁠⁠⁠If you'd like to support our work, you can DONATE here!⁠⁠⁠⁠ Follow Us On Instagram @thenewevangelicals  Subscribe On YouTube @thenewevangelicals The New Evangelicals exists to support those who are tired of how evangelical church has been done before and want to see an authentic faith lived out with Jesus at the center. This show is produced by Josh Gilbert Media | ⁠⁠⁠⁠Joshgilbertmedia.com⁠⁠⁠⁠ We are committed to building a caring community that emulates the ways of Jesus by reclaiming the evangelical tradition and embracing values that build a better way forward. If you’ve been marginalized by your faith, you are welcome here. We’ve built an empathetic and inclusive space that encourages authentic conversations, connections and faith. Whether you consider yourself a Christian, an exvangelical, someone who's questioning your faith, or someone who's left the faith entirely, you are welcome here! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices