194 | embracing humanity + connection in autism with jessie caraway of the if you know one project
EVOLVE with Dr. Tay: the podcast for parents of autistic kidsShow Notes
ABOUT THIS EPISODE (+ scroll for resources) 👇 Dr. Tay sits down with Jessie Caraway, creator of the If You Know One Project, to talk about her family’s journey, her daughter’s autism diagnosis, and how the project grew out of a desire to build community and awareness. They reflect on the long road to an autism diagnosis, reframing “high support needs,” and the importance of seeing each autistic child through a lens of humanity rather than fear or deficit. Jessie shares how her journey with her daughter, Eliza, inspired her to create the If You Know One Project — a space that celebrates individuality and connection through neurodiversity-affirming awareness, apparel, and storytelling. Together, Dr. Tay and Jessie explore what it means to move forward with compassion, to hold complexity in parenting, and to remind families that every story — every one — matters. TIMESTAMPS 00:00 Introduction and Guest Announcement 00:29 Host’s Background and Podcast Purpose 01:31 Guest Introduction and Family Background 02:01 Starting the If You Know One Project 03:29 Community Engagement and Resource Sharing 06:50 Challenges in the Diagnosis Journey 11:36 Navigating the Healthcare System 18:23 The If You Know One Project’s Mission and Future Goals 22:59 Navigating the Journey Together 23:22 Support for Families 24:04 Community and Connection 24:33 Understanding High Support Needs 25:22 The Value of Individuality 26:20 Perspective Shifts and Humanity 28:24 Building Trust and Communication 32:19 Sharing Stories and Advocacy 36:12 Encouragement for Parents 38:56 Final Thoughts and Resources 💛 RESOURCES ⚡️ Connect with Jessie Caraway + The If You Know One Project: Instagram → @jess_ifyouknowone Etsy Shop → If You Know One ⚡️ Join EVOLVE: The Membership — a neurodiversity-affirming space for parents to find community, support, and ongoing learning on this journey. ⚡️ Learn more about Dr. Tay’s Whole Family Approach + current services at drtaylorday.com ⚡️ Continue learning + submit questions for future episodes: Instagram → @the.dr.tay TikTok → @the.dr.tay
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