Adam Farris Podcast

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October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM)—a time to recognize the contributions of workers with disabilities, promote meaningful employment opportunities, and remind employers that talent comes in many different forms

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Join autism advocate, inspirational speaker, entrepreneur, and Founder of Younique Abilities Adam Farris as he shares the story behind Younique Abilities Marketplace—a mission-driven marketplace created to celebrate the talents, creativity, and unique abilities of individuals with disabilities and differing abilities.

In this episode, Adam discusses his journey as an advocate and entrepreneur, the inspiration behind Younique Abilities, and how handmade products can create opportunities, promote inclusion, and help change the way society views disability.

Discover the heart behind the marketplace, learn about Adam’s vision for creating a more inclusive community, and be inspired by the message that everyone has something valuable to contribute.

Younique Abilities: Turning Labels Into Limitless Possibilities!

Visit the website to learn more

https://youniqueabilities.com/

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Younique Abilities offers autism awareness merchandise handcrafted by individuals with unique and differing abilities, empowering them to showcase their talents while promoting acceptance, inclusion, and understanding.

Autism Awareness Merchandise showcases the unique talents and abilities of gifted artisans.

Showcasing Unique Talents: Younique Abilities’ Autism Awareness Merchandise

At Younique Abilities, we believe that everyone possesses a unique ability and has the potential to achieve great things when they believe in themselves. Our handcrafted items are created by talented individuals with unique abilities, celebrating their exceptional skills.

Our dream is to open a storefront where we can hire individuals with unique abilities, providing them with opportunities to thrive and express their creativity.

As a small business, Younique Abilities offers autism awareness merchandise, all meticulously handcrafted by artisans with unique abilities. You can explore and purchase our products on our online store, and we look forward to having you as a loyal customer.

We choose not to use labels like “disabled” or “handicapped.” Instead, we embrace terms like “unique abilities” or “differing abilities,” recognizing that everyone has their own special talents. We hope the world will come to understand that we are all unique in our own ways.

Hi, I’m Adam Farris, the founder and president of Younique Abilities. I don’t consider myself disabled because I’ve achieved so much. Perhaps none of us are truly “disabled.” We are simply individuals with unique abilities. It’s time for the world to see that we are all alike in different ways.

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Hi, my name is Adam Farris, and I have Tourette Syndrome — but Tourette Syndrome does NOT have me.

Each year, Tourette Syndrome Awareness Month runs from May 15th to June 15th. Please help me in supporting the Tourette Association of America.

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I was diagnosed with Tourette Syndrome at the age of 6, and I am now 37 years old. During my teenage years, my symptoms were very challenging — I had loud hooting and shouting noises that were hard to control.

When I asked my parents if I could still go out to places like movie theaters and restaurants, they always said yes. My father, in particular, was a major influence on me. He taught me from a young age to be my own advocate — to be proud of who I am and not to hide from the world because of my condition. Whenever someone would comment on my tics or make rude remarks, my father encouraged me to confidently explain: “This is who I am. This is what I have. If it bothers you, you are free to go somewhere else. But I am staying here and enjoying myself.” Because of my father’s guidance, I learned early on to stand up for myself with dignity and strength.

Tourette Syndrome has impacted my life in many ways. At one point, a former doctor had me on high doses of anti-psychotic medications, which left me feeling like a zombie — constantly tired, unable to concentrate, and struggling with severe hand tremors. Thankfully, we found a new doctor who truly understands me and helps manage my condition better today.

I currently work as a cashier at a retail store in Houston, Texas. Sometimes, you might see me struggling a little with tasks like bagging items, especially fragile ones, due to the shakiness in my hands. If I ask for assistance, I truly appreciate your patience and understanding — even small acts of kindness can make a big difference.

Living with Tourette’s is a bit like having hiccups. Even when you try to hold it back, your body eventually forces it out. You can’t always control when a tic happens, and trying to suppress it only builds tension until it must be released.

But always remember: I have Tourette Syndrome. Tourette Syndrome does not have me.

💬 To anyone out there living with Tourette Syndrome: You are not alone. There are support groups and communities that can help you feel connected and empowered. Please don’t isolate yourself. Get out into the world — go to restaurants, enjoy public spaces. If someone makes a comment or a face, confidently tell them, “I have Tourette’s. This is part of who I am, and I cannot help it.”

According to the Tourette Association of America: Tourette Syndrome (TS) is a condition of the nervous system that causes people to have “tics” — sudden, repetitive movements, twitches, or sounds that they cannot easily control. Just like hiccups, tics may be temporarily suppressed but must eventually happen.

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Welcome to to the Adam Farris Podcast

There comes a moment in life when you realize something powerful:

Your story is not something to hide.
It’s something to share.

For many self-advocates, especially those of us who live with autism, Tourette syndrome, ADHD, anxiety, or other disabilities, finding our voice can feel like climbing a mountain. We’ve been misunderstood. Labeled. Interrupted. Sometimes even underestimated.

But here’s what I’ve learned through real-world experience:

The very thing that makes you different may be the very thing that makes you powerful.

When I started speaking publicly, I didn’t feel “confident.”

I felt nervous.
I felt exposed.
Furthermore, I felt unsure.

Would people focus on my tics?
Would they only see my diagnosis?
Would they listen to my message?

But over time, I realized something life-changing:

Confidence isn’t about eliminating your differences.
It’s about embracing them.

The moment I stopped trying to hide parts of myself was the moment my voice became stronger.

When you own your story, no one else can define it for you.

Speaking your truth doesn’t always mean standing on a stage.

Sometimes it looks like:

• Explaining your needs in the workplace.

• Correcting misconceptions with kindness.

• Telling a teacher, employer, or leader what inclusion really means.

• Sharing your journey online so others feel less alone.

I’ve had conversations at work, in community spaces, and after speaking engagements where someone quietly said:

“I’ve never heard it explained like that before.”

That’s the power of lived experience.

You don’t need a microphone to be impactful.
You need courage and clarity.

Let’s be honest, speaking up can feel uncomfortable.

There will be moments when:

• Your voice trembles.

• Your heart races.

• Your mind questions whether you should say anything at all.

Speak anyway.

Growth doesn’t happen in silence.
Change doesn’t happen in comfort.

Some of the most powerful breakthroughs in my journey came after moments that stretched me. Every time I chose to speak instead of shrink, I grew stronger.

And so will you.

Self-advocates sometimes hold back because we don’t want to be seen as difficult, dramatic, or demanding.

But here’s the truth:

Asking for understanding is not weakness.
Requesting accommodations is not complaining.
Correcting misinformation is not being confrontational.

It’s leadership.

Your voice helps create space for someone else who hasn’t found theirs yet.

Confidence doesn’t mean being the loudest person in the room.

It means standing firm in who you are.

It means saying:

• “This is my lived experience.”

• “This is how my brain works.”

• “This is what support looks like for me.”

• “I deserve to be here.”

Confidence is quiet strength.
It is steady courage.
It is self-respect in action.

After I’ve spoken at events or shared my journey, people have told me:

• “You helped me understand my child better.”

• “I didn’t know someone with Tourette syndrome could work full-time.”

• “I feel seen.”

• “You gave me hope.”

You may never fully know the impact of your words.

But someone is watching.
Someone is listening.
Someone is learning.

And someone is gaining courage because you chose not to stay silent.

If you’re waiting until you feel completely ready, you may wait forever.

Courage isn’t the absence of fear.
It’s moving forward despite it.

Your truth is not random.
Your journey is not meaningless.
Your voice is not optional.

It is powerful.

So speak.
Share.
Advocate.
Lead.

The world becomes more inclusive, more compassionate, and more understanding every time a self-advocate stands in their truth.

And that can start with you.

https://adamfarris.net/blog/speak-your-truth-with-confidence

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National Disability Employment Awareness Month: Inclusion, Belonging, and the Power of Diverse Abilities

https://adamfarris.net/blog/ndeamadamfarris

Celebrating 80 Years of National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM)Inclusion, Belonging, and the Power of Diverse Abilities

October marks the 80th anniversary of National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM) a time to recognize and celebrate the contributions of people with disabilities in the American workforce. As someone who advocates for inclusion and believes in the power of unique abilities, this month holds a special meaning for me.

Since NDEAM first began in 1988, it has encouraged conversations about inclusion, accessibility, and the importance of ensuring that every person, regardless of ability, has the opportunity to succeed. Today, 80 years later, that message is more important than ever.

Inclusion is not just a policy — it’s a practice that empowers people to reach their full potential. When workplaces are inclusive, they benefit from a wide range of perspectives, ideas, and talents. People with disabilities bring creativity, innovation, and problem-solving skills that strengthen teams and inspire others to think differently.

True inclusion means more than just hiring people with disabilities, it’s about creating a sense of belonging. When individuals feel respected, supported, and valued for who they are, they can thrive both personally and professionally. Belonging helps build stronger relationships, better teamwork, and a culture where everyone feels they matter.

Companies that embrace disability inclusion see measurable results, including higher employee retention, better decision-making, and greater innovation. When employees feel seen and heard, they’re more engaged, more productive, and more likely to stay long-term. Inclusion is not just the right thing to do, it’s also smart business.

As we celebrate 80 years of NDEAM, let’s continue to build workplaces that welcome and support people of all abilities. Let’s focus on what people can do, rather than what they can’t. Every person has something valuable to contribute, and when we work together with understanding and compassion, we can create a world where everyone belongs.

National Disability Employment Awareness Month is a reminder that inclusion should be celebrated all year long, not just in October. Together, we can continue to raise awareness, inspire change, and build communities where people with disabilities are recognized for their strengths and achievements.

Inclusion Creates Stronger Workplaces A Sense of Belonging The Benefits of Inclusion Moving Forward Together Let’s Keep the Conversation Going

Stay Connected

Follow my journey, support my advocacy, and learn more about my work by visiting adamfarris.net. Together, we can make a difference!

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We are talking about bullying and Tourette syndrome. what's it like to be bullied and have Tourette syndrome?

I personally have Tourette syndrome and I personally have been bullied. So please listen in and thank you for listening to the Adam Farris podcast. please hit the subscribe button as well. thank you so much. have a nice day

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Adam Farris is the founder and President of Younique Abilities and an autism advocate. He lives with Tourette syndrome and autism, and he talks about how his company gives opportunities to people living with special abilities and how his dad helped him overcome Tourette by taking him out in public when he was young.
With Adam is his dad, Anthony Farris, who is a case manager for Casa de Esperanza de Los Ninos. He is also certified in metal health first-aid and a peer-recovery support specialist. Anthony discusses how Casa de Esperanza de los Ninos helps parents break the cycle of poverty by providing comprehensive residential and family support programs for the long term. The goal is to help them thrive for good for more info and for Adam's company: https://youniqueabilities.com

this had originally aired on Houston PA Public Affairs Radio which was heard on

KPRC AM 950

945 the Buzz

Sunny 99.1

Sports Talk 790

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hey everyone, this is Adam Farris with the Adam Farris podcast. how is everyone doing today?

July 26th, 1990 then President George H.W bush sign into law the Americans with disabilities act. Which is a civil Rights act that prohibits discrimination based on disability. listen in on my podcast and don't forget to subscribe as well. thank you so much! have a great day and take care.

Please visit my website to learn more about what I Do

https://linktr.ee/adamfarris123

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Hello and welcome to the Adam Farris podcast with your host Adam Farris every may is mental health awareness month. But everyday you should take care of your mental health as well. Millions of people in the US are affected by mental illness each year it's important to measure how common mental illness is, so that we can understand its physical, social, and financial impact.


One in five adults experience mental illness each year.
1 In 20 US adult experience serious mental illness every year

So you're asking me, right? What can you do? Speak up if you're not feeling well, or speak to a counselor or your teacher? Or maybe a family member, or someone you trust, And talk to them about how you're feeling. Because trust me I've been there, I have some disabilities which I call unique abilities. Because in reality, we are all not disabled, right? We all have a unique ability, and we would like the world to understand that we are all alike. Thank you for listening to the Adam Farris podcast. Take care of everyone

Visit my website, and have a great day, remember to smile, and make someone's day, laugh a little more, and do not sweat the small stuff folks.

https://magic.ly/adamfarris123

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