Down syndrome advocacy – Matthew Schwab Speaks

Matthew Schwab is a 27-year-old North Carolina native with Down syndrome who has his own public speaking business, Matthew Schwab Speaks. In 2019, he gave a TEDx talk about the importance of employing people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Matthew hopes to help change how the world sees Down syndrome.

Matthew is also an actor whose first movie “Horsegirls” premiered at the Tribeca Film Festival in June 2025. He loves working as a restaurant host, doing things with family and friends and spending time with his fiancée. 

During this episode, you will hear Matthew talk about:

• What his childhood was like growing up with Down syndrome
• Why he started his own public speaking business, and the types of topics he likes to discuss
• What he likes to do at work and with his friends, family, and fiancée
• How he got into the world of theater and acting
• Challenging some common stereotypes about people with Down syndrome  

Learn more about Matthew and his work at the following links:

• Official Website - MatthewSchwabSpeaks.com
• YouTube - Matthew Schwab Listens Podcast Playlist
• Facebook - Matthew Schwab Speaks
• Instagram - @matthewschwabspeaks

Watch the video of this interview on YouTube.

Read the episode transcript.

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*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. These episodes are for informational purposes only and do not substitute for professional medical advice. Consult a medical professional or healthcare provider if you are seeking medical advice, diagnoses, or treatment.*