Nonspeaking autistic self advocacy – with Noah Seback

Nonspeaking autistic self advocacy – with Noah Seback

Author: Carolyn Kiel April 25, 2022 Duration: 18:42

Noah Seback cannot speak -- however, he has a lot to say.

Noah is a nonspeaking autistic young man with apraxia, which has made it impossible for him to communicate reliably for most of his life. Then, at the age of 16, he learned how to use a letterboard to spell out the words he wanted to say -- and his entire world opened up. As Noah described it to me, "it was nirvana!"

Since Noah is nonspeaking, he is joined on this episode by his communication regulation partners, David and Nadine Seback (who are also his parents). During this episode, you'll hear David and Nadine read Noah's responses – which means you'll be hearing Noah's words through David and Nadine's speaking voices.

During this episode, Noah shares:

  • How his life completely changed after learning how to communicate using a letterboard at age 16
  • The importance of presuming competence of nonspeaking people
  • How he responds to people who don't believe that letterboard spelling is a valid method of communication
  • How he began to overcome and heal from his trauma
  • Why he started qUirk, his mentoring business, to help nonspeakers – especially those who are labeled "the worst of the worst"
  • What he wants parents of nonspeaking kids to know, and his advice for nonspeakers who are struggling right now

Find out more about Noah, his writing and his mentoring business at www.quirkthrives.com.

Watch the video of this interview on YouTube!

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Click here for the episode transcript.

*Disclaimer: The views, guidance, opinions, and thoughts expressed in Beyond 6 Seconds episodes are solely mine and/or those of my guests, and do not necessarily represent those of my employer or other organizations.*


Hosted by Carolyn Kiel, Beyond 6 Seconds: Neurodiversity stories from neurodivergent people moves past the snap judgments that so often define how neurodivergent people are perceived. Each conversation here is an invitation to listen deeply, exploring the nuanced realities of entrepreneurs, artists, advocates, and other neurodivergent individuals as they share their own experiences in their own words. You’ll hear personal accounts that challenge stereotypes, not through abstract arguments, but through the vivid details of lived experience-the unique pathways to creativity, the challenges navigated in work and relationships, and the personal definitions of success and well-being. This podcast creates a space where identity is explored with authenticity, highlighting the strengths and perspectives that arise from thinking differently. Tuning in means connecting with stories that are as diverse and dynamic as the neurodivergent community itself, offering genuine insight into mental health, societal norms, and the richness of human cognition. Carolyn guides these discussions with a focus on depth and connection, ensuring every episode goes far beneath the surface to celebrate the vibrance of neurodiversity.
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