Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast The Special Needs Mom Podcast
| Titre | Date | Durée | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Faith, Trauma & Transformation with Katelyn Johnson | 04 Jun 2025 | 00:42:29 | |
In this episode, I talk with Katelyn—a mom of three kids with different disabilities, including Trisomy 21, Aicardi-Goutieres Syndrome & Autism, whose parenting journey started at just 19. Her story includes foster care, childhood trauma, a cancer diagnosis, and learning how to feel her emotions for the first time as an adult. We talk about what survival mode looked like for her, how therapy (and a really good life coach-turned-therapist) helped her start healing, and the beauty of learning to set boundaries and feel again. There’s a lot of laughter, honesty, and even a little discussion about why she wants to throat-punch anyone who says, “God won’t give you more than you can handle.” Katelyn’s story is raw, real, and full of unexpected wisdom. Whether you’re in the thick of it or reflecting from the other side, you’ll find something here that resonates. Connect with our Guest, Katelyn Johnson: Email: Katelynmarietheimer@gmail.com Get The Special Needs Mom Survival Pack HERE | |||
| When People Think You are Fine & You are Not | 28 May 2025 | 00:27:32 | |
This is a rebroadcast of Episode 130 that was aired back in 2023. "In this episode, I open up about those moments when everyone assumes you're okay, but inside, you're struggling. It's a common experience, especially for us moms navigating the complexities of raising children with special needs. I share personal reflections on the internal work required to acknowledge our true feelings and the courage it takes to express them. We delve into the layers beneath the surface and discuss the importance of authenticity in our struggles." Get The Special Needs Mom Survival Pack HERE | |||
| Grief that Overwhelms Compassion with Kristin Herzberg Purdy | 21 May 2025 | 00:39:05 | |
This week, I sat down with Kristin Herzberg Purdy—psychologist, rare disease advocate, and mom of two children with disabilities. KristIn shares her deeply personal story of parenting through autism, epilepsy, and a rare neurodegenerative condition. We talked about the emotional toll of constant caregiving, the push to find answers when the medical system leaves you hanging, and how self-compassion gets complicated when you're stuck in survival mode. Kristin was so open about what it means to love fiercely while grieving at the same time. We touched on everything from her professional lens as a trauma psychologist to the messy feelings of comparison and guilt that creep in, especially when you’re watching other families do “typical” things. She's also raising funds for a gene therapy treatment for her son, Paxton, and currently in the quarterfinals of a Supermom contest that could bring in $20,000 toward that effort. She's a powerhouse, and I know you'll be as moved by her. Connect with Kristin:
Other Resources:
Get The Special Needs Mom Survival Pack HERE | |||
| The Story of Two Wolves | 14 May 2025 | 00:14:29 | |
In today’s episode, I’m sharing some personal reflections about acceptance and the emotions that come with it, especially with my son’s 16th birthday bringing up past challenges. I also share the excitement of an upcoming getaway, thanks to my friend Laura's help—talk about a surprise upgrade! The highlight of the episode is a powerful Native American story about two wolves fighting inside us—one good, one bad. Which wolf will win? I dive into how this story helped me reflect on where I put my energy and how we often judge ourselves for our emotions. It’s a message you won’t want to miss. Resources Mentioned: Get The Special Needs Mom Survival Pack HERE | |||
| Discovering the Power of Authentic Connection with Tara Heaton | 07 May 2025 | 00:43:19 | |
In this episode, I'm joined by Tara Heaton, a writer, speaker, and master storyteller with over 25 years of corporate experience. Tara’s journey took a turn when her daughter, Caroline, developed encephalitis, which led to a seizure disorder and ongoing medical challenges. Tara shares how her career in sales helped her build genuine relationships and how those skills have translated into advocating for her daughter. We dive into the importance of asking for help, the struggles of balancing motherhood and personal well-being, and the deep emotional journey of accepting the limitations and joys of parenting a child with special needs. Tara’s reflections on shifting from chasing fleeting pleasures to embracing intentional joy are powerful and inspiring. This episode will leave you with valuable insights on building real connections and finding joy even amid hardship. Resources Mentioned:
Connect with our guest, Tara Heaton:
Get The Special Needs Mom Survival Pack HERE | |||
| The Jerky J: Tackling Self Judgement | 30 Apr 2025 | 00:18:08 | |
In this episode, I talk about the sneaky voice of self-judgment that creeps in when we’re feeling inadequate. I share a personal story of how I’ve learned to recognize and deal with these judgmental thoughts, and why it’s important to show ourselves some compassion. If you've ever felt that nagging doubt about not being good enough, this episode is for you. Get The Special Needs Mom Survival Pack HERE | |||
| A Grieved Community | 23 Apr 2025 | 00:15:01 | |
In this episode, I share my concern over the rising division within our special needs community. Recently, I’ve observed two sides clashing—each convinced the other is wrong. This division started with a comment made by the Secretary of Health and Human Services about autism, but what’s more troubling to me is how we’re responding as a community. I’ve seen judgment replacing empathy, and I’m left wondering how we got here. There’s a lot more to explore, but for now, I want to remind you, together is the only way! Get The Special Needs Mom Survival Pack HERE | |||
| Empowering Rare Disease Leaders through the Rare Advocacy Exchange Series hosted by Global Genes | 16 Apr 2025 | 01:16:40 | |
In this episode, we sit in on the Rare Advocacy Exchange virtual series. Global Genes is hosting this series in an effort to empower rare disease leaders. As moderator, I facilitated a panel that focused on the challenges and rewards of leading in the rare disease space. The conversation covered the importance of community, collaboration, and using personal experiences to drive change. Panelists shared their journeys of advocacy, highlighting how moments of isolation became opportunities to connect and push for change. This episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about rare disease advocacy, offering inspiration and insights for creating meaningful impact. Episode Resources: Parenting Differently When You Expect A Shorter Life with Daniel DeFabio Global Genes: Rare Advocacy Exchange Get The Special Needs Mom Survival Pack HERE | |||
| What Supporting Yourself Really Looks Like | 09 Apr 2025 | 00:26:41 | |
I share a personal story today about my journey with pelvic floor physical therapy, and how I’ve been learning to support myself in ways that match my resistance. After some humorous missteps with scheduling and a lot of self-judgment, I realized that getting the right kind of support—whether it’s a coach, a friend, or even a check-in system—can make all the difference when it comes to sticking with something that feels hard. I talk about a concept I love: getting support sufficient to your resistance. We often do this for our kids, but how often do we apply it to ourselves? It's about recognizing that resistance isn't a problem, but the lack of the right kind of support is. This episode is all about finding the right tools and structures to help you get where you want to go, without judgment or guilt. Get The Special Needs Mom Survival Pack HERE | |||
| Overcoming Isolation in a Digital World with Callista Bowes | 02 Apr 2025 | 00:53:35 | |
This conversation with Callista Bowes, a therapist, mom, and certified pediatric gentle sleep coach, dives into a reality many special needs parents face—the deep isolation that exists even in a hyper-connected world. We talk about how social media can create a false sense of connection while leaving parents feeling even more alone. Callista shares her experience navigating loneliness after stepping away from her career following her daughter’s Down Syndrome diagnosis, the struggle to find truly understanding spaces online, and why building in-person support can feel so hard. We also explore the emotional toll of managing constant responsibilities and the fear of judgment that keeps many parents from opening up. If you’ve ever felt unseen or like digital spaces don’t quite meet your needs, this episode is for you. Books Mentioned: As Long As You Need: Permission to Grieve by J.S. Park The Wild Edge of Sorrow. by Francis Weller Connect with Our Guest, Callista Bowes: email: callistabowes@gmail.com website: A Cherished Night of Sleep Get The Special Needs Mom Survival Pack HERE | |||
| Building the Summer of Your Dreams | 26 Mar 2025 | 00:33:56 | |
In this episode, I’m sharing how I’m planning ahead to create a summer that actually works—for me, my family, and especially Levi. Last summer was rough, so I got intentional about doing things differently this year. I walk you through a six-step process (inspired by my landscape design days!) to create a future you’re excited about—without getting stuck in the “how.” I cover:
Resources Mentioned:
Get The Special Needs Mom Survival Pack HERE | |||
| Wanderlust & Wheelchairs: Making Travel Possible with Laura Ishmael | 19 Mar 2025 | 00:51:28 | |
Today I’m chatting with my friend Laura Ishmael, special needs mom, travel advisor, and all-around travel pro. Laura shares how travel became part of her family’s life, even after her daughter Sophie’s rare brain malformation diagnosis. From navigating accessibility challenges to embracing flexibility, Laura’s story is all about keeping dreams alive, even when the path looks different than expected. We talk about: If you’ve ever felt like travel just isn’t in the cards for your family anymore, this episode might just change your mind! Get to Know Our Guest, Laura Ishmael:
Get The Special Needs Mom Survival Pack HERE | |||
| Moms Talk Autism (with me) | 12 Mar 2025 | 00:54:03 | |
This episode is full of heart, insight, and real talk about the ever-evolving journey of special needs motherhood. I sat down with Brittney Crabtree and Tash Dillman from the Moms Talk Autism podcast to chat about grief, acceptance, and finding your people. Tash, a Portland-based mom of two, loves fitness, nature, volunteering, and tending to her MANY houseplants. Brittney, a Northern California mom of four, runs a home bakery and balances the unique needs of her two autistic children. We talk about the cycle of special needs parenting, the fine line between helping and "fixing" our kids, and why diversifying your friendship portfolio is a game-changer. If you're feeling exhausted or alone, this one’s for you. Episode Resources: TSNM Pod Episodes on Grief: Episode 220: Let's Talk About Loneliness Episode 221: The Antidote for Loneliness Episode 223: The Trojan Horse of Happiness Episode 225: Together Is the Only Way Get to know Moms Talk Autism: Contact: hello@momstalkautism.com Get The Special Needs Mom Survival Pack HERE | |||
| Unsupportive Support Groups: Why Some Support Groups Leave You Worse Off Than You Started | 05 Mar 2025 | 00:28:04 | |
Ever walked into a support group expecting connection and left feeling… not so supported? You’re not alone. This episode is all about navigating support groups that don’t quite meet our needs and how to find, or even create, the spaces that truly support us. I share my first (not-so-great) support group experience, the different types of people you might encounter in these spaces, and why mismatched expectations can make things feel off. But don’t worry, this isn’t just a gripe session—I also give you actionable steps to help you find (or build) the support you need. And if you’ve ever felt like there has to be a better way, you’re right! Let’s explore how to create meaningful, truly supportive communities together. Resources Mentioned: Get The Special Needs Mom Survival Pack HERE | |||
| We're Talking About Help: A Community Huddle Episode | 26 Feb 2025 | 00:43:05 | |
Welcome to our Community Huddle! This month, we’re talking about receiving—why it’s hard, why it matters, and how we can get better at it. In this episode, we explore:
And of course, we wrap up with our Community Cheer—because together is the only way. Get The Special Needs Mom Survival Pack HERE | |||
| Digging Deep | 19 Feb 2025 | 00:07:31 | |
Last night, as I was putting Levi to bed—exhausted and overwhelmed—I realized I had a choice: shrink back or dig deep. I take you back to my water polo days and a phrase my coach drilled into us—"Dig Deep." It’s stuck with me ever since, and last night, it surfaced again as a reminder that even in the toughest moments, we can choose to keep going. I hope this message encourages you to dig deep when things feel hard. Get The Special Needs Mom Survival Pack HERE | |||
| The Complexity of Receiving Help | 12 Feb 2025 | 00:28:44 | |
Today I'm wrapping up our two-part series on receiving. Inspired by my own journey and the experiences of the moms I work with, I take you through a personal story of navigating the world of financial support for my son, Levi. I share how, after years of advocacy, we finally received the help we needed—only to find myself struggling with an unexpected wave of guilt and disbelief when even more support came our way. I dive into the concept of our "inner thermostat" for receiving, as explained in The Big Leap by Gay Hendricks, and how our subconscious beliefs can keep us stuck in feeling undersupported. We also take a closer look at common thought patterns that may be holding you back from accepting help, like feeling obligated to reciprocate or believing it’s too much effort to ask. Plus, I offer a few mindset shifts that can help you break free and receive the support you deserve. If you've ever felt conflicted about getting the help you need, this episode is for you. Get The Special Needs Mom Survival Pack HERE | |||
| The Guilt of Receiving | 05 Feb 2025 | 00:22:29 | |
Today, we’re diving into a topic that so many of us struggle with—receiving help. This conversation was sparked by a comment from our community about the guilt of accepting support, even when we know we need it. In this episode, I explore: If you’ve ever thought, I should be able to do more or other people need help more than I do, this episode is for you! We'll unpack these thoughts and gently rework them so you can open up to the support you truly deserve. Get The Special Needs Mom Survival Pack HERE | |||
| The Race to Safety | 29 Jan 2025 | 00:22:58 | |
I’m sharing a personal update about a recent unexpected hospitalization with my son Levi, and how I handle “hospital mode” when life throws a curveball. I also dive into how we try to outrun anxiety with our to-do lists—and why that just doesn’t work. I talk about how to recognize when your nervous system is out of whack, why your to-do list might actually be adding to your stress, and simple ways to slow down, reset, and feel more grounded. Get The Special Needs Mom Survival Pack HERE | |||
| Stabilizing After Winter Break- A Community Huddle | 22 Jan 2025 | 00:50:55 | |
This week’s episode is a special one—our January Community Huddle! I sat down with four amazing moms, and together, we unpacked the post-winter break season. Think of it as a virtual coffee chat, full of reflections, laughs, and shared wisdom. ☕ Here’s what we covered:
Get The Special Needs Mom Survival Pack HERE | |||
| To Be Of Service | 15 Jan 2025 | 00:19:05 | |
This episode is all about catching up! I’m sharing highlights from our winter break, including a big advocacy win for Levi, and reflecting on the mix of joy and challenges that come with parenting a child with disabilities. I also dive into a theme I’ve been embracing: being of service. It’s helped me find purpose and peace, and I hope it might inspire you too. Lastly, I’m asking for your help to support special needs moms displaced by the recent LA fires. If you know someone in need, please reach out. Get The Special Needs Mom Survival Pack HERE | |||
| Finding Purpose Through Parenting Invisible Differences with Kari Baker | 08 Jan 2025 | 00:49:50 | |
In this heartfelt episode, I sit down with Kari A. Baker, an inspiring mom, author, and advocate for families navigating life with invisible neurological differences. Kari shares her journey of becoming a "KIND mom" after her son Brady was diagnosed with autism at age three. Together, we dive into topics like letting go of the "fixing" mindset, embracing the unexpected joys of parenting, and finding hope and purpose in life’s challenges. Kari talks about the evolution of her life—transitioning from a career in financial services to founding KIND Families, a supportive community for families like hers. She also opens up about her struggles with control, the lessons she’s learned from her faith, and the incredible ways her son has surprised and inspired her. Whether you're a mom at the start of your special needs journey or further along, Kari’s story will remind you that even in the hard moments, there’s room for gratitude, growth, and kindness. Connect with Kari:
Get The Special Needs Mom Survival Pack HERE | |||
| Together is the Only Way | 01 Jan 2025 | 00:10:23 | |
As 2024 wraps up, I’m reflecting on my son’s incredible progress and the motto that’s guided me: “Together is the only way.” In this quick episode, I share the story behind it and why it means so much. Looking for more connection in 2025? Check out:
Details are at kararyska.com. Together really is the only way—let’s make 2025 amazing! Get The Special Needs Mom Survival Pack HERE | |||
| Feeling the Holiday Magic & Mess: A Community Huddle | 25 Dec 2024 | 00:40:01 | |
In this special holiday community huddle, we dive into: 🎄 Managing Holiday Chaos: Moms share how they handle busy schedules, unexpected challenges, and finding balance. 🌟 Finding Magic: From little rituals to joyful connections, we talk about creating calm in the chaos. 💌 Intentions for the Season: Our guests share personal goals to embrace the season with peace and joy. It’s a heartfelt chat full of tips and inspiration to help you navigate the holidays. You’re not alone—there’s magic in the everyday moments! Episode Mentioned: Episode 204 "Doing Hard Things Without Suffering" Get The Special Needs Mom Survival Pack HERE | |||
| Reframing Hardship: A Holiday Survival Guide | 18 Dec 2024 | 00:18:06 | |
In this episode, I get real about something we’ve all felt at one point: that temptation to sink into self-pity when things get hard (especially during the holiday season!). After a year filled with appealing and advocating for my son, I share a personal story about a recent hearing where things did not go as planned — and how I nearly let it pull me into the “poor me” mindset. But here’s the twist: I didn’t stay there. Instead, I made a small shift toward self-compassion — and it made all the difference. In this episode, we explore:
If you're ready to move away from self-pity and give yourself the gift of kindness this season, this one’s for you! Listen to the previous related episode on mindset shifts: Episode 103 Get The Special Needs Mom Survival Pack HERE | |||
| Unlocking Calm with Hypnotist Kim Guche | 11 Dec 2024 | 00:57:43 | |
In this episode, I sit down with Kim Guche, a hypnotist, NLP practitioner, and pediatric speech-language pathologist with a passion for helping families create harmony and peace at home. As a mom of four and a best-selling author, Kim brings a wealth of personal and professional insight into reducing stress, building confidence, and fostering resilience in both kids and parents. We discuss the misconceptions about hypnotherapy, how it works, and why it’s an accessible and transformative tool. Kim shares her journey from working with children with special needs to founding Entrancing Inspirations Hypnotherapy in 2016. Her mission? To help children and families decrease anxiety, improve communication, and tap into their inner strength through mindset and energy work. Kim also offers a simple, practical grounding technique to help parents shift from overwhelm to calm in minutes. This tool is a game-changer, whether you're preparing for a challenging day or navigating the chaos of daily life. Connect with Kim Guche: Related Episodes:
Get The Special Needs Mom Survival Pack HERE | |||
| Busting the Bustle this Holiday Season | 04 Dec 2024 | 00:19:39 | |
December is here, and with it, the chaos of the season! In this episode, I dive into the idea of "busting the bustle" and slowing down amidst the holiday madness. Inspired by The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry by John Mark Comer, I share insights on how chronic busyness can undermine the relationships and moments we cherish most. Together, we explore the concept of "being", how we show up, and how simple shifts in our mindset can transform stressful moments into opportunities for calm and connection. This holiday season, let’s make space for love, presence, and maybe a little magic too. You deserve it. Resources from the episode:
Get The Special Needs Mom Survival Pack HERE | |||
| The Unreachable Attitude of Gratitude | 27 Nov 2024 | 00:18:38 | |
In this week’s episode, we’re diving into the complexities of gratitude, especially during tough seasons. If the thought of gratitude feels like it’s being forced down your throat, don’t worry—you’re not alone, and we’re not here to push. I share practical ways to shift your perspective and share a heartfelt quote from Francis Weller about holding both sorrow and gratitude, and how this duality can stretch and grow us. Get The Special Needs Mom Survival Pack HERE | |||
| Together is the Only Way (A Community Huddle Episode) | 20 Nov 2024 | 00:47:51 | |
In this week’s community huddle, we dive into a heartfelt follow-up on loneliness and grief—topics we’ve explored in recent episodes. Picture this: a cozy space to connect with moms who truly get it. We talk about whispers of grief in everyday moments, how resilience sometimes feels like a mask, and finding strength in vulnerability. I’m joined by Shantay, Alyssa, and Annika, three incredible moms who open up about their unique parenting journeys, the unexpected emotions they’ve faced, and the power of shared community. We also touch on creating safe spaces, both physically and emotionally, and the profound impact of feeling truly seen and understood. Whether you’re listening on your way to an appointment or with a warm cup of coffee, this episode invites you to reflect, connect, and feel supported in your journey. Let’s keep the conversation going! Got thoughts on this episode? I’d love to hear from you. Shoot me a text!
Get The Special Needs Mom Survival Pack HERE | |||
| Reclaiming Time: Mindful Digital Consumption for Anxious Moms with Jennie Ketchum Crooks | 13 Nov 2024 | 01:10:48 | |
Today’s conversation is one that I know many of us can relate to – balancing anxiety and our relationship with digital media. I’m thrilled to have Jennie Ketcham Crooks join us! Jennie is a clinical social worker, anxiety and OCD specialist, and founder of the West Coast Anxiety Clinic. Jennie has also been involved in research at the University of Washington, guest lectured at Harvard University, and appeared on popular television shows including Headline News, The View, and Oprah. She’s here to unpack some powerful insights on navigating anxiety, managing our “shiny rectangle” (a.k.a. our phones), and making space for true connection. We dive deep into what makes anxiety tick, especially for special needs moms, and how our smartphones can be both a blessing and a trap. Jennie shares practical tips from her 30-day program in her book Look Up, which helps us rethink our digital consumption and build healthier relationships with technology. We also share a few laughs about managing “Brenda,” the little voice in our heads that always seems to have something to say! Connect with Jennie:
Get The Special Needs Mom Survival Pack HERE | |||
| The Trojan Horse of Happiness | 06 Nov 2024 | 00:42:15 | |
This episode continues our exploration of the often avoided topic: grief. I share a story about one of my special needs mom clients, “Diana,” who, through our work together, found acceptance and even a path to peace despite facing deep sadness and loss. This is her third conversation with me on the podcast and I am grateful she is back for again. We often think grief looks like constant sadness or that it follows neat “stages,” but it’s much messier—and that’s okay. Grief doesn’t have to mean losing joy; in fact, it can create more room for it. I explore how embracing grief can actually open us up to feel fully alive. If you’re looking for a supportive space to explore these topics, I’ve built a community just for that. Resources Mentioned:
Get The Special Needs Mom Survival Pack HERE | |||
| Desperate Prayers with Rachel Wojo | 30 Oct 2024 | 00:54:46 | |
I sit down with Rachel Wojo, author of Desperate Prayers, a book born from her journey through immense grief, faith, and resilience as a special needs mom. Rachel shares her deeply personal experiences of loss, from her mother’s battle with leukemia to the passing of her special needs daughter, Taylor. Together, we explore what it means to live with both grief and joy, finding peace and purpose in the hardest moments. Rachel talks about the role of simple prayers—like “God, help me”—in staying grounded and connected to her faith, even when life felt overwhelming. We also dive into the power of community, self-compassion, and letting go of the need to be in control. If you’re navigating life as a special needs parent, facing grief, or looking to strengthen your faith in difficult times, this conversation will speak to you. Join us to hear Rachel’s wisdom and encouragement for living fully, even in the face of life’s hardest challenges. Resources Mentioned:
Get The Special Needs Mom Survival Pack HERE | |||
| The Antidote for Loneliness | 23 Oct 2024 | 00:26:50 | |
In this episode, I’m diving into the connection between grief and loneliness, picking up where we left off last week. I share a bit about my experience with Levi and how loneliness often shows up for us as special needs moms. The good news? The antidote to loneliness is connection. I also reference Dr. Vivek Murthy's book Together (an excellent read!) and talk about how loneliness can be as damaging as smoking or obesity. In this episode, I share how we can break the cycle of loneliness by:
Next week, I’ll be doing an interview episode, and I’ll dive deeper into the topic of grief itself. Resources Mentioned:
If you found this episode helpful, I’d love for you to share it with a friend—maybe it’ll spark a conversation about breaking the cycle of isolation and loneliness. Get The Special Needs Mom Survival Pack HERE | |||
| Let's Talk About Loneliness | 16 Oct 2024 | 00:31:24 | |
In this episode, I explore the deep connection between loneliness and grief as a special needs mom. Loneliness can feel like stepping into an unfamiliar world, while the rest of your community continues on like nothing has changed. We discuss how relationships shift in these moments and why feeling abandoned is such a common experience. This is just Part 1, where we unpack loneliness, so stay tuned for Part 2, where I’ll share more on the antidote to loneliness and offer actionable insights! Resources from this episode:
Get The Special Needs Mom Survival Pack HERE | |||
| Not Knowing Can Be the Hardest Part | 09 Oct 2024 | 00:08:26 | |
This week, I thought I’d be back with a full episode, but instead, here’s a quick check-in and a preview of what's to come. I share a bit about our recent school emergency and the challenging space of not knowing what’s next. If you’ve ever had to live in that uncertainty, you’ll relate. I also talk about the importance of giving ourselves permission to let go when needed (shoutout to my editor for pushing me to give myself a break). On the horizon? I’m working on episodes about loneliness and grief—two emotions that often go hand-in-hand, especially in our community. Lastly, I’d love to hear from YOU! Use the "Text the Show" feature in the show notes to share what you're going through or suggest topics for future episodes. Get The Special Needs Mom Survival Pack HERE | |||
| Find Your People and Climb Your Mountains Together | 02 Oct 2024 | 00:11:14 | |
During a peloton ride recently, my instructor Robin Arzon, said something that has stuck with me. "Find your people, and climb your mountains together." I instantly thought of all of you. As special needs moms, we face tough challenges, but we’re stronger when we support each other. This is what I talk about on today's episode, and also how self-care impacts those around us—and why that’s okay! Get The Special Needs Mom Survival Pack HERE | |||
| Anger. Rage. Fear. Surrender. Repeat. | 25 Sep 2024 | 00:12:58 | |
This week, to take care of myself, I’m hitting pause on a full episode. In its place I have something special for you: I’m sharing my contribution to the anthology Becoming Brave Together: Heroic, Extraordinary Caregiving Stories from Mothers Hidden in Plain Sight. My piece, titled Anger. Rage. Fear. Surrender. Repeat. takes you through the raw emotions of caregiving—navigating medical systems, grappling with endless appointments, and finding peace in moments of surrender. It’s a deep dive into the realities we face but rarely talk about. If you connect with this, you’ll definitely want to grab the anthology—it’s packed with stories from incredible moms, just like you. Enjoy, and we’ll be back next week with a regular episode! Get The Special Needs Mom Survival Pack HERE | |||
| A Un-Episode Episode | 18 Sep 2024 | 00:02:45 | |
This is an un-episode episode, a break from our regularly scheduled programming. Get The Special Needs Mom Survival Pack HERE | |||
| Self-Care in Advance | 11 Sep 2024 | 00:24:39 | |
In this episode, I’m sharing a rough day I had when something totally unexpected threw me off. I won’t go into details (to respect my son’s privacy), but I was left feeling embarrassed and powerless. Ever been there? This led me to the idea of self-care in advance—basically, planning ahead for those stressful moments we know are coming, like IEP meetings or doctor’s appointments. I talk about how prepping for these events can make a huge difference, even if it’s as simple as planning an easy dinner or giving yourself a break. Get The Special Needs Mom Survival Pack HERE | |||
| Facing Control Issues, Embracing Compassion & Crushing Co-Parenting with Andie Torres | 04 Sep 2024 | 01:03:02 | |
In this episode, I sit down with Andie Torres, a fellow special needs mom, author, and "maker of pretty things" for this podcast. Andie shares her journey as a special needs mom, how she is learning to let go of the need to control everything, and the importance of having compassion for those inside and outside of the disability community. She shares a story of how advocating for her son’s health, despite pushback, ultimately saved his life. We also talk about what she has learned in her unique co-parenting dynamic and how they have learned to share their fears and build trust with each other. This episode offers valuable insights with a mix of honesty, humor and warmth for everyone. Tune in and join the conversation!
Get The Special Needs Mom Survival Pack HERE | |||
| Feeling Like An Outsider In Your Own Community | 28 Aug 2024 | 00:23:00 | |
Why do we find ourselves on the fringe? Why do we find ourselves alone even though we so deeply want to belong? In this episode we look at why we feel isolated inside the diagnoses communities of our kids. I share my personal experience with my family at Oncology & Kids Camp (OAK) this last weekend and why this was our only our first year here, even though Levi's first tumor was 13 years ago. Opting into a community can bring connection, support, and a sense of belonging, even when your experience feels so different than others. Connect with Oncology & Kids Camp (OAK): Get The Special Needs Mom Survival Pack HERE | |||
| Candid Conversations & Summer Reflections of Special Needs Moms (A Community Huddle Episode) | 21 Aug 2024 | 01:01:51 | |
In this candid episode, I sit around a virtual table and catch up with a group of incredible moms from our community. They share their personal stories, discuss the challenges they faced this summer, and offer each other (and you) support and encouragement. This episode is all about being known, seen, and supported in the journey of raising children with special needs.
Get The Special Needs Mom Survival Pack HERE | |||
| Shifting from Summer to Stable | 14 Aug 2024 | 00:33:14 | |
In this episode we delve into the transition from the chaos of summer to the stability of fall. I candidly share my own struggles during the summer, particularly around unmet needs for my disabled son, Levi, and offer hope and practical advice for making this seasonal shift smoother for special needs families like mine. I introduce the concept of “closing the last chapter” before moving forward and emphasize the importance of intentional reflection on the summer season. By assessing what worked, what didn’t, and what can be done differently, I encourage you to create a plan for a more stable and fulfilling fall. Ready to make the shift from summer to stable? Join me, Kara, in the Pathway to Peace coaching community and be part of a supportive community that understands the unique challenges of special needs parenting. We are shifting to an even more connected and community based feel, think a coffee date with friends. Introductory pricing is available for a limited time for early birds! Reach out to Kara for more details. Get The Special Needs Mom Survival Pack HERE | |||
| Empowering Special Needs Moms with AI: How ChatGPT Can Help | 07 Aug 2024 | 00:39:58 | |
In this episode, we are exploring the transformative tool of AI, specifically ChatGPT, and how it can be a game changer for caregivers and special needs moms. From streamlining tasks, to assisting with paperwork and medical bills, to enhancing email communication, discover how this tech can be your new best friend.
Get The Special Needs Mom Survival Pack HERE | |||
| Master Your Mindset: Taking Back Control | 31 Jul 2024 | 00:31:54 | |
In honor of our Summer Sabbath Challenge, we are taking time to invest in rest. To give us more space and time we are rebroadcasting previous episodes for June & July. This is the last episode in the series and it is a companion episode to Reclaiming Your Life: The Journey from Helpless to Empowered, last week's episode. Get The Special Needs Mom Survival Pack HERE | |||
| Reclaiming Your Life: The Journey from Helpless to Empowered | 24 Jul 2024 | 00:36:17 | |
In honor of our Summer Sabbath Challenge, we are taking time to invest in rest. To give us more space and time we are rebroadcasting previous episodes for June & July. Stick around! I am bringing back some really well received episodes that I know you'll enjoy! Get The Special Needs Mom Survival Pack HERE | |||
| Self-Loved: Beyond Vanity and Conceit | 17 Jul 2024 | 00:18:39 | |
In honor of our Summer Sabbath Challenge, we are taking time to invest in rest. To give us more space and time we are rebroadcasting previous episodes for June & July. Stick around! I am bringing back some really well received episodes that I know you'll enjoy! Get The Special Needs Mom Survival Pack HERE | |||
| The Danger of Forced Positivity: Allowing Space for All Emotions | 10 Jul 2024 | 00:25:01 | |
In honor of our Summer Sabbath Challenge, we are taking time to invest in rest. To give us more space and time we are rebroadcasting previous episodes for June & July. Stick around! I am bringing back some really well received episodes that I know you'll enjoy! Get The Special Needs Mom Survival Pack HERE | |||
| Managing Mom Rage: Understanding and Healing | 03 Jul 2024 | 00:34:50 | |
In honor of our Summer Sabbath Challenge, we are taking time to invest in rest. To give us more space and time we are rebroadcasting previous episodes for June & July. Stick around! I am bringing back some really well received episodes that I know you'll enjoy! Get The Special Needs Mom Survival Pack HERE | |||
| Doing Hard Things Without Suffering | 26 Jun 2024 | 00:24:50 | |
In honor of our Summer Sabbath Challenge, we are taking time to invest in rest. To give us more space and time we are rebroadcasting previous episodes for June & July. Stick around! I am bringing back some really well received episodes that I know you'll enjoy! Get The Special Needs Mom Survival Pack HERE | |||