Send us a text (Note: we are not able to respond but LOVE to hear from you!!)

This episode came from a simple morning walk and one very unexpected moment of wisdom from my teenage niece’s boyfriend. We spent Thanksgiving together and he shared something that stopped me in my tracks. It got me thinking about how the people we spend time with quietly shape our thinking, our habits, our emotional landscape and even our hope. As special needs moms we often forget how much this matters because our lives feel full before they even begin.

In this conversation, I explore community, both the good and the harmful parts of it. I talk about why we pick up the beliefs of the people we are around, why default cultural narratives like holidays always being terrible can keep us stuck and how we can intentionally choose rooms that lift us up. I also share a powerful story from a memorial service that reminded me that healing usually happens shoulder to shoulder, never solo. If you have been craving connection or wondering why certain spaces feel draining, this episode will give you clarity, inspiration and a gentle nudge toward what feels good and true.

Another episode on suffering: Episode 164 Doing Hard Things Without Suffering 

Connect with Kara, host of The Special Needs Mom Podcast:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thespecialneedsmompodcast/
Website: https://www.kararyska.com/

Send us a text (Note: we are not able to respond but LOVE to hear from you!!)

This Thanksgiving week, I’m keeping it simple and talking about complex gratitude. The kind that feels messy, honest, and actually doable for special needs moms.

I share a story from the early days after Levi’s surgery, when gratitude felt impossible and I fully wanted to shove the whole concept off a cliff. What finally clicked for me was realizing I didn’t have to be grateful for everything to be grateful for something. That little truth opened up room for real, authentic gratitude instead of the forced version that makes you feel worse.

In this episode, I walk through my “sorting buckets” idea. It's a playful way to separate the hard things from the things we genuinely appreciate, without pretending the hard stuff isn’t there. Even a tiny whisper of gratitude can shift something inside us, especially during a season that brings up so many mixed emotions.

If you’re listening with metaphorical crossed arms… I get it. You’re still welcome here.

Connect with Kara, host of The Special Needs Mom Podcast:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thespecialneedsmompodcast/
Website: https://www.kararyska.com/

Send us a text (Note: we are not able to respond but LOVE to hear from you!!)

In this episode, I sit down with Nikki McIntosh, founder of Rare Mamas® and host of the Rare Mamas Rising Podcast. Nikki is also the author of Rare Mamas: Empowering Strategies for Navigating Your Child’s Rare Disease, a book born from her family’s journey after her son’s rare diagnosis.

We talk about the shock of those early days, the fight for treatment, and what it’s like raising one child with a rare condition and another without. Nikki shares how she turned pain into purpose, creating resources and community to give other moms strength, strategies, and hope.

This conversation is full of those “me too” moments—reminders that we’re not as alone as we sometimes feel. Nikki and I also touch on the rollercoaster of emotions that come with parenting in the world of rare disease, from fear and grief to joy and fierce determination. Her story is a powerful example of what it looks like to fight for your child while still choosing to build a meaningful, hope-filled life.

Resources Mentioned

• Rare Mamas: Empowering Strategies for Navigating Your Child’s Rare Disease 
• Rare Mamas community
• Rare Mamas Rising Podcast
• Cure SMA (patient advocacy group)

Connect with Kara, host of The Special Needs Mom Podcast:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thespecialneedsmompodcast/
Website: https://www.kararyska.com/

Send us a text (Note: we are not able to respond but LOVE to hear from you!!)

Hello and welcome to the podcast. As the dawn of a new year breaks, I'm filled with renewed hope and the pleasure of revisiting an episode that remains close to my heart, featuring the indomitable Anna Brown.

Through the lens of raising a nonverbal child, we discuss the profound lesson of releasing control and the importance of honoring our children's individual journeys without imposing our own expectations.

Connect with Anna:
Blog: https://www.motheringrare.org/
IG: https://www.instagram.com/mothering_rare/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mothering.rare

Connect with Kara, host of The Special Needs Mom Podcast:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thespecialneedsmompodcast/
Website: https://www.kararyska.com/

Send us a text (Note: we are not able to respond but LOVE to hear from you!!)

Feeling the holiday rush? Let me pull you aside for a moment of candid reflection; because, let's face it, the festive season can be equal parts enchanting and exhausting. In this heart-to-heart, I bare my soul about the upcoming winter break, sharing the joy and the jittery nerves as my husband and I put a new spin on our Christmas tradition. It's a tale of breaking the cycle of overwhelm by leaning into support and embracing the restorative power of rest—something many of us, especially us hands-on mothers and ardent workers, often resist. Prepare to feel a kinship and maybe even a lightbulb moment as I recount how reaching out for help isn't a sign of weakness but an essential step to enjoying the true spirit of the holidays.

As the year draws to a close, I'm buzzing with excitement to reveal a collaborative co-workshop that pairs my coaching insights with the organizational magic of a professional dynamo. This hands-on experience is designed not just to inspire but to ignite real change, and I'm practically giving away seats with a special rate and an early bird discount. If the price tag makes you hesitate, don't let it stand in your way—reach out, and let's make it work for you. And as we approach the finale of this episode, please receive my warmest holiday wishes, whether you're decking the halls or simply unwinding into the new year. Join us for a conversation that's all about honoring your need for downtime and getting a head start on a transformative journey.

Connect with Kara, host of The Special Needs Mom Podcast:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thespecialneedsmompodcast/
Website: https://www.kararyska.com/

Send us a text (Note: we are not able to respond but LOVE to hear from you!!)

Hello and welcome to the podcast. As the twinkle of holiday lights begins to shimmer, the weight of coordinating a festive season that embraces the needs of our special children can feel like a tangled string of bulbs. This heartfelt episode invites you into our circle of mothers, including the candid voices of Brooke, Erica, Francesca, and Rachel, who each bring to the table their own patchwork of challenges and triumphs in parenting children with special needs. We're cracking open the conversation on how we craft a holiday that's as inclusive as it is joyous, sharing stories that will wrap around you like the coziest of winter scarves.

Connect with Kara, host of The Special Needs Mom Podcast:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thespecialneedsmompodcast/
Website: https://www.kararyska.com/

Send us a text (Note: we are not able to respond but LOVE to hear from you!!)

Hello and welcome to the podcast. In this episode, I'm sharing 5 things that have been game-changers in my life recently! Listen in as I talk practical strategies from meal planning, and therapy support, to even mindset shifts that can help you reclaim your peace during this busy period. Lastly, I share five transformative tips that have been my compass during this journey and invite you to share your own experiences. You're not alone on this journey, and together, we can navigate this terrain.

Try Hungry Root for Yourself! ($50 off with this link)

Other Mentions:
The Lazy Genius Podcast
We Are Brave Together
Naples/Long Beach Retreat

Connect with Kara, host of The Special Needs Mom Podcast:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thespecialneedsmompodcast/
Website: https://www.kararyska.com/

Send us a text (Note: we are not able to respond but LOVE to hear from you!!)

Experience a journey that navigates the thin line between despair and hope. 

We open our hearts to you, sharing the intimate moments of fear and struggle, and the glimmers of hope that served as our lifeline. Feel the terror of entrusting our precious Ryan to a stranger's care, and the relief washing over us as we receive the invaluable support from those around us. Join us, as we recollect our journey from hardship to healing, resonating with strength, resilience, and most importantly, hope.

Connect with Kara, host of The Special Needs Mom Podcast:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thespecialneedsmompodcast/
Website: https://www.kararyska.com/

Send us a text (Note: we are not able to respond but LOVE to hear from you!!)

Are you losing sleep over your child's restless nights? You're not alone. I'm thrilled to share with you a conversation brimming with wisdom, insights, and practical tips from pediatric sleep consultant, Alison Egidi. She's not just an expert in her field, but also a mother who's walked the path of sleep troubles with her own child. We explore and debunk sleep myths, emphasizing the individuality of each child's sleep rhythm. The goal isn't to control their sleep schedules but to understand and align with their unique circadian rhythms.  But the conversation doesn't stop there. We touch on how anxiety can impact sleep and parenting, sharing our personal experiences and offering strategies to make bedtime less stressful.

Connect with Allison
IG: https://www.instagram.com/sleepandwellnesscoach/
Website: https://sleepandwellnesscoach.com/
Dr. Winter's Sleep Podcast

Connect with Kara, host of The Special Needs Mom Podcast:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thespecialneedsmompodcast/
Website: https://www.kararyska.com/

Send us a text (Note: we are not able to respond but LOVE to hear from you!!)

Hello and welcome to the podcast. Feeling overwhelmed and struggling to find gratitude in the midst of managing life as a special needs mom? Let's unpack those feelings together. In this special Thanksgiving episode, we're taking a deep-dive into the concept of "defending gratitude." We'll explore why we often struggle to be grateful in the face of adversity, and introduce practical strategies to help you navigate these emotional hurdles.

Positive Psychology
The Enemies of Gratitude: Hidden Brain, Tom Gilovich at Cornell

Connect with Kara, host of The Special Needs Mom Podcast:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thespecialneedsmompodcast/
Website: https://www.kararyska.com/

Send us a text (Note: we are not able to respond but LOVE to hear from you!!)

Do you ever feel unprepared to manage nursing care at home? Picture yourself juggling conflict, setting clear communication, and ensuring your child's safety without losing your peace of mind. Well, you're not alone. Join us as we dive deep into the world of home nursing care with our guests, the remarkable Carrie Holt and Casey Craig. This episode is a treasure trove of insights as we explore Carrie's unique approach to home nursing care, the crucial role of sleep, and the many creative solutions families implement for their child's safety.

Managing in-home care relationships isn't always a walk in the park. How do you establish boundaries? When should you trust your instinct? Tune in as Carrie and Casey share their personal experiences of collaborating with nurses and nannies, throwing light on the significance of a formal on-boarding process. They explain the potential benefits of utilizing contracts in complex relationships and how to steer the ship of home nursing care with grace and grit.

Finally, let us not overlook the challenges of caregiving, especially when it comes to picking caregivers for special needs children. Carrie and Casey take us on their journey, sharing their encounters with nursing agencies, church communities and their innovative strategies to finding help. They emphasize the importance of accepting help and the blessings that it brings. What role could prayer play in finding quality care? How can self-care be prioritized amidst the whirlwind of responsibilities? All of these questions and more are answered in this enlightening discussion. Don't miss out on this dose of inspiration and practicality!

Connect with Kara, host of The Special Needs Mom Podcast:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thespecialneedsmompodcast/
Website: https://www.kararyska.com/

Send us a text (Note: we are not able to respond but LOVE to hear from you!!)

Ever thought about the life of a mom navigating the world of special needs nursing care? Here, we bring you a heartwarming and enlightening conversation with two incredible women, Kara and Kasey, who are living this reality every day. We journey with them from the moment their children's diagnosis altered their lives, to the trials and triumphs they experience in their daily lives now. This candid conversation provides an in-depth look at the world of caregiving, including the emotional impact of nursing care, managing family dynamics, and balancing work and caregiving.

We delve into the realities of providing care for medically fragile children while respecting their growth and desires as teenagers. Not only do we explore the love-hate relationship with having nurses at home, but also the continuous challenge of starting over with a new nurse each time. Kara and Kasey share the journey from survival to thriving, their growth fostering hope and support for other families in similar circumstances. 

As we further this conversation, we shift our focus towards addressing unexpected challenges in parenting. Hear firsthand how Kara and Kasey manage the emotional toll of nursing care and its impacts on their lives. They also open up about their strategies for handling conflict, their stories offering valuable insights and practical advice for families in similar situations. This discussion with Kara and Kasey promises to be a source of encouragement and invaluable information you won't want to miss.

Connect with Kara, host of The Special Needs Mom Podcast:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thespecialneedsmompodcast/
Website: https://www.kararyska.com/

Send us a text (Note: we are not able to respond but LOVE to hear from you!!)

Ever wondered how to balance household responsibilities when you're a special needs parent? It's time to explore some new pathways. In our illuminating episode, we dive deep into the dynamics of division of labor in households with a special needs parent, unearthing the often hidden challenges and ways to create a more equitable balance of roles. We discuss how to identify ourselves in our roles, celebrate our victories, and constructively engage our partners about divvying up tasks efficiently. 

Connect with Kara, host of The Special Needs Mom Podcast:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thespecialneedsmompodcast/
Website: https://www.kararyska.com/

Send us a text (Note: we are not able to respond but LOVE to hear from you!!)

This week I’m sharing a really personal story—not all the details, but the emotional experience of finding myself in a very sudden, very public, and really scary moment with Levi. It was one of those times where I could’ve spiraled, but something shifted in me.

We’re talking about the sneaky nature of self-pity, how it isolates us, and how powerful it can be to not go down that road—even when things are objectively really hard. I reflect on how my work as a coach gives me daily reminders that I’m not alone, and neither are you.

I also share a powerful coaching session I had earlier that day that helped ground me in what I needed when everything hit the fan. This episode is your reminder: nothing has gone wrong. You’re still in the driver’s seat, and thriving doesn’t mean everything’s perfect—it just means you’re still showing up, step by step.

And PS: The Pathway to Peace Coaching Community opens again October 14! Even if you're just a little curious, join the waitlist to get the details when they drop.

Connect with Kara, host of The Special Needs Mom Podcast:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thespecialneedsmompodcast/
Website: https://www.kararyska.com/

Send us a text (Note: we are not able to respond but LOVE to hear from you!!)

Taking you further into the journey, we dive into the identity of a special needs mom, an exclusive club of the toughest people you'll ever meet. And while we celebrate our shared experiences, it's critical to be mindful of the beliefs we tend to harbor within this community. We discuss the need for self-care, the struggle with feeling misunderstood, and the often-underestimated role our partners play in caregiving. This episode is a gentle nudge to you, and to myself, reminding us that while we are part of a remarkable community, we must prioritize ourselves and welcome our partners into the caregiving journey. So, buckle up and journey with me through the trials, triumphs, and revelations of being a special needs mom.

Connect with Kara, host of The Special Needs Mom Podcast:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thespecialneedsmompodcast/
Website: https://www.kararyska.com/

Send us a text (Note: we are not able to respond but LOVE to hear from you!!)

We're thrilled to share this heart-felt conversation with Hilary Ramos, a dynamically multifaceted woman whose roles encompass a mother, a wife, a doctor of physical therapy, and a content creator. Hilary’s journey involves a major life pivot; leaving behind her career in physical therapy after years of doctorate-level schooling, to devote herself to her son's early life. She presents a captivating narrative of faith, resilience, and the unique challenges that come with being a parent to special needs children.

Connect with Hillary:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joyfulandrising/

Connect with Kara, host of The Special Needs Mom Podcast:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thespecialneedsmompodcast/
Website: https://www.kararyska.com/

Send us a text (Note: we are not able to respond but LOVE to hear from you!!)

Ever find yourself in a whirlwind of activities, responsibilities, and changes that come with a new school year, especially when you're a special needs mom? Brace yourselves as Brooke, Jenny, Kristen, Rachel, and I navigate through the labyrinth of successes and challenges we're experiencing. We share candid insights into what's worked for us, from using visual calendars and grocery delivery services to create a peaceful home environment, to managing our children's fatigue and stress levels. 

No one said being a special needs mom was easy, especially when it comes to juggling activities and responsibilities. We've seen how reducing extra activities or joining new communities can create surprising breathing space for our kids. Listen as we tackle the everyday chaos of managing backpacks, tour schedules, and medical care, and share how we've found the systems that work best for each of our families. We also share our trials on creating new habits for our kids, from transitioning in and out of the car to toilet training, and how we've conquered these roadblocks.

Our journey as special needs moms isn't all about our children, it's about us too. In this episode, we delve into overcoming the fear of asking for help, improving communication with our children's teachers, and even taking a break from our children to nurture our marriages. We also explore the concept of marriage meetings and how they can benefit relationships. Join us on this empowering journey, where we support each other to be the best moms we can be. After all, it's through sharing and connecting that we find strength and solutions to our challenges.

Connect with Kara, host of The Special Needs Mom Podcast:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thespecialneedsmompodcast/
Website: https://www.kararyska.com/

Send us a text (Note: we are not able to respond but LOVE to hear from you!!)

Have you ever felt the weight of anxiety, isolation, or confusion while navigating through your child's healthcare journey? Today's episode takes a raw and insightful look into these challenges as we sit down with Katie Taylor, a seasoned child life specialist with over 13 years of experience under her belt. Together, we delve into the heart of what it truly means to be a parent in the healthcare landscape, tearing down the barriers that often leave us feeling alone and unprepared.

We tackle the not-so-simple art of processing emotions in parenting. With Katie's guidance, we explore the strength in vulnerability, the power in authenticity, and the importance of emotional regulation. We discuss how parents can use their past experiences to positively influence their present situations, offering solace and direction to those of us who find ourselves lost in the adversities of medical experiences. We also underscore the role of health professionals in our journey, shedding light on how they can be our strongest allies in advocating for the best possible care for our loved ones.

But, that's not all! Katie also walks us through her revolutionary creation: Child Life on Call - an app designed to provide families with the resources they need during a medical experience. We also address the vital importance of self-care, or as Katie puts it, 'replenishing our emotional tank', and the transformative power of gratitude. Wrapping up our conversation with a genuine expression of appreciation, we leave the door wide open for future insightful conversations. By the end of this episode, you'll be feeling more enlightened, inspired and ready to confidently approach your family's healthcare journey. Tune in and let's navigate this often uncharted territory together!

Full Show Notes

Connect with Katie:
Website: https://childlifeoncall.com/
IG: https://www.instagram.com/childlifeoncall/

Connect with Kara, host of The Special Needs Mom Podcast:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thespecialneedsmompodcast/
Website: https://www.kararyska.com/

Send us a text (Note: we are not able to respond but LOVE to hear from you!!)

Hello and welcome to the podcast. I'm back with part 2 of the conversation with Diane (her alias.) Part 1 is back in episode 163. In this episode, we explore her transformation, finding the right support, and the emotional journey towards acceptance - a powerful tool for life-changing transformations.

Discover how acceptance plays a key role in trusting yourself, facing challenges, and paving the way for changes you can't even imagine. This story celebrates the resilience and strength of a special needs mom, inspiring you to believe in your own power to handle anything life throws your way.

Full Show Notes

Connect with Kara, host of The Special Needs Mom Podcast:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thespecialneedsmompodcast/
Website: https://www.kararyska.com/

Send us a text (Note: we are not able to respond but LOVE to hear from you!!)

Hello and welcome to the podcast. Can you imagine navigating life's challenges without the constant weight of guilt, judgment, shame, and resistance? What if I told you suffering is a choice and you can learn to steer clear of it?

Join me as we delve into the difference between 'hard things' and 'suffering.' We'll unravel ways to identify these elements, bring kindness and curiosity to ourselves, and use a helpful script to get started. This episode is all about self-compassion. Along the way, we'll also take a look at our Pathway to Peace community - the perfect place to find and share collective kindness and compassion. I also share a small favor - if you could take a moment to rate and review our podcast, it would greatly help others on similar journeys discover us. Get ready for an episode filled with hope and a powerful message of resilience. Let's begin.

Full Show Notes

Connect with Kara, host of The Special Needs Mom Podcast:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thespecialneedsmompodcast/
Website: https://www.kararyska.com/

Send us a text (Note: we are not able to respond but LOVE to hear from you!!)

Hello and welcome to the podcast. Today is part one of a two art episode with a quest who has chosen to be anonymous, we'll call her Diane. Join us for an intimate chat with this mother is three.

We explore the terrain of Diane's experience in my group coaching program, a haven she sought during a time of immense stress and isolation. Diane unwraps her journey from feeling utterly overwhelmed to slowly regaining control and finding tranquillity, a journey that has the potential to bring hope for parents in a similar predicament. Our discussion dives deep into the essence of caregiving, the nuances of parenting, and the critical importance of maintaining an individual identity amidst the tumultuous waves of challenges.

Full Show Notes

Connect with Kara, host of The Special Needs Mom Podcast:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thespecialneedsmompodcast/
Website: https://www.kararyska.com/

Send us a text (Note: we are not able to respond but LOVE to hear from you!!)

Hello and welcome to the podcast. Have you ever felt that conventional idea of rest just doesn't recharge you? It's time to redefine rest, especially for us, the special needs moms. This episode unravels the different facets of rest and how it can be uniquely tailored to meet your needs.

Full Show Notes

Connect with Kara, host of The Special Needs Mom Podcast:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thespecialneedsmompodcast/
Website: https://www.kararyska.com/

Connect with Kara, host of The Special Needs Mom Podcast:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thespecialneedsmompodcast/
Website: https://www.kararyska.com/

Send us a text (Note: we are not able to respond but LOVE to hear from you!!)

Ever wondered what it's like to be a special needs mom? This episode is a heart-to-heart with Amy Neyer, a physical therapist and a mother to a child with medical complexities. Our conversation touches on the emotional journey that comes with managing a child's medical complexities, from navigating healthcare challenges to finding a suitable diet for her son. Amy candidly shares her experiences, including dealing with feelings of guilt and shame, and the constant advocacy required when interacting with medical professionals.


Connect with Amy
IG: https://instagram.com/amy_neyer

Connect with Kara, host of The Special Needs Mom Podcast:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thespecialneedsmompodcast/
Website: https://www.kararyska.com/

Full Catastrophe Living by Jon Kabat-Zinn
Full Show Notes

Connect with Kara, host of The Special Needs Mom Podcast:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thespecialneedsmompodcast/
Website: https://www.kararyska.com/

Send us a text (Note: we are not able to respond but LOVE to hear from you!!)

Ever wondered how a diagnosis can change the trajectory of not just one life but an entire family? Join me as I have an intimate conversation with Erica Kingsbury, a mother of three and a proud graduate of the Pathway to Peace coaching program. Erica's journey through her son Jack's diagnosis of a rare genetic syndrome has transformed her from a career-driven woman to a stay-at-home mom. Her story is one of resilience, strength, and an unwavering love that navigates the difficulties and delays that impact their family every day.

Connect with Erica:
IG: https://instagram.com/erica.kingsbury

Full Show Notes

Connect with Kara, host of The Special Needs Mom Podcast:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thespecialneedsmompodcast/
Website: https://www.kararyska.com/

Send us a text (Note: we are not able to respond but LOVE to hear from you!!)

This week on the podcast I got to talk with Catherine Marston—a mom, health coach, author, and 14-time Ironman triathlete (yes, you read that right…14!). Catherine’s story is one of grief, resilience, and learning how to take small, consistent steps toward healing and strength.

She shares about losing her daughter Helen, how she processed that deep grief, and the ways she found power in self-acceptance and exercise. I loved how real she was about starting small—sometimes just 10 minutes of movement—and how that shift can completely change the way we feel in our bodies and lives.

We also talked about her book Finding My Stride: A Guide to Finding Power, Raising a Child with Special Needs, which offers guiding principles for parents navigating both caregiving and grief. Catherine reminds us that while there may be no “way out,” there is always a way through.

Connect with Kara, host of The Special Needs Mom Podcast:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thespecialneedsmompodcast/
Website: https://www.kararyska.com/

Send us a text (Note: we are not able to respond but LOVE to hear from you!!)

Ever feel like you're constantly in overdrive, with no time to breathe? Then you're in for a treat. Meet Amber, a resilient veterinarian and mother of two, juggling an impressive array of responsibilities as she navigates her life, complete with its challenges and triumphs. Amber's life is a whirlwind of love, struggle, and hope, and she's inviting us to join her journey towards a pathway to peace.

Feel the tug at your heartstrings as Amber opens up about her experiences of raising a child with special needs. Imagine the strength it takes to support her daughter, who has a mild form of cerebral palsy and severe autism, all while preparing her son for kindergarten. Amber also gives us a candid look into her relationship dynamics - with her husband, her children, and her work - as she strives for understanding and peace of mind.

In a world where overplanning can lead to anxiety, Amber takes us deep into her struggles of habitual overplanning and its implications on her life. Glean insights as we explore how recognizing triggers and shifting behaviors can pave the way to inner peace. We end the episode with a deep dive into breaking habits, finding balance, and learning how to celebrate successes. Let's venture together into this candid journey of resilience, strength, and peace.

Full Show Notes

Connect with Kara, host of The Special Needs Mom Podcast:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thespecialneedsmompodcast/
Website: https://www.kararyska.com/

Send us a text (Note: we are not able to respond but LOVE to hear from you!!)

Hello and welcome to the podcast. Come along for an inspirational ride as I sit down with the invincible Serene Noor Ali. She is a special needs mom and tech entrepreneur. From the shock of her daughter’s unexpected diagnosis to the major brain surgery that followed, Serene's personal experiences and professional background with the US Department of State have all paved the path to her innovative startup. With her compelling narrative of resilience and innovation,  Sehreen Noor Ali is  sure to leave you inspired.

Connect with Sehreen:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sehreennoorali/
Sleuth: https://hellosleuth.com/

Full Show Notes

Connect with Kara, host of The Special Needs Mom Podcast:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thespecialneedsmompodcast/
Website: https://www.kararyska.com/

Send us a text (Note: we are not able to respond but LOVE to hear from you!!)

Hello and welcome to the podcast. Do you ever find yourself spiraling in a cycle of overwhelm, shutting down, procrastinating, overthinking, and planning without execution? This week, we pick apart this familiar loop and expose how it merely exacerbates the stress and anxiety we aim to evade. As a life coach and a mom, I’m excited to share practical insights from my personal experiences and those of my clients to help you regain control of your life.

Full Show Notes

Connect with Kara, host of The Special Needs Mom Podcast:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thespecialneedsmompodcast/
Website: https://www.kararyska.com/

Send us a text (Note: we are not able to respond but LOVE to hear from you!!)

Hello and welcome to the podcast. In this week's episode I take a deeper look into emotional pain. Sometimes it's ours and sometimes it's our child, spouse, friend etc. How do we naturally react in these situations and how can we better understand the process of these emotions.  It's a journey of self-awareness and redefining our understanding of emotional resilience, an inherent trait, that we all possess.

Full Show Notes

Connect with Kara, host of The Special Needs Mom Podcast:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thespecialneedsmompodcast/
Website: https://www.kararyska.com/

Send us a text (Note: we are not able to respond but LOVE to hear from you!!)

Hello and welcome to the podcast.  In this episode, let's explore the trials and triumphs of summer as a special needs mom. From managing physical accessibility to redefining 'perfect summer', our latest podcast episode is a heartfelt journey.

Full Show Notes

Connect with Kara, host of The Special Needs Mom Podcast:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thespecialneedsmompodcast/
Website: https://www.kararyska.com/

Send us a text (Note: we are not able to respond but LOVE to hear from you!!)

Hello and welcome to the podcast. This week's episode is geared towards special needs moms that are planning vacations, but the 3 tips I give are useful for any time.  Being aware of the things you say, having appropriate expectations and being creative in your planning can help things go more smoothly any day of the week.

Full Show Notes

Connect with Kara, host of The Special Needs Mom Podcast:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thespecialneedsmompodcast/
Website: https://www.kararyska.com/

Send us a text (Note: we are not able to respond but LOVE to hear from you!!)

Hello and welcome to the podcast.  Today's episode is a rebroadcast, but it was edited to be a little less Christmas and feel more applicable to the summertime season. Both times of the year can be hard for us as special needs moms to stop and enjoy; to just have fun. I want you to change your perspective and try to see things in a fun and light way this summer.

Original Episode: The Lost Art of Having Fun
Full Show Notes

Connect with Kara, host of The Special Needs Mom Podcast:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thespecialneedsmompodcast/
Website: https://www.kararyska.com/

Send us a text (Note: we are not able to respond but LOVE to hear from you!!)

In this episode, we will explore the process of reflecting on any event to help navigate anxiety and foster personal growth. We will discuss three essential steps that can guide individuals in gaining valuable insights and moving forward in a positive and transformative way.

Full Show Notes

Connect with Kara, host of The Special Needs Mom Podcast:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thespecialneedsmompodcast/
Website: https://www.kararyska.com/

Send us a text (Note: we are not able to respond but LOVE to hear from you!!)

In today's episode, we have Maureen Michele, MD, an accomplished physician, life coach, and mother of three. With her extensive experience as a general pediatrician and allergist/immunologist, Dr. Maureen has cared for patients with various acute and chronic health issues. She also uses her storytelling talent to teach young physicians the art of medicine. As a life coach, she helps parents of chronically ill children regain control and find fulfillment in their lives.

This podcast episode addresses essential questions for parents, such as effectively disagreeing with a doctor and finding ways to be heard when concerns aren't acknowledged. Dr. Maureen provides valuable advice for parents on being prepared for medical appointments and shares her insights as a physician and a parent.

Full Show Notes

Connect with Kara, host of The Special Needs Mom Podcast:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thespecialneedsmompodcast/
Website: https://www.kararyska.com/

Send us a text (Note: we are not able to respond but LOVE to hear from you!!)

Hello and welcome to the podcast. This week I am truly admitting that my family is in a really hard season. I give a life update in the beginning and then I am rebroadcasting a previous episode, actually episode number 11!  This topic of pain comparison gets brought up time and time again. I thought it was a great episode to bring to light during this season.

Full Show Notes

Connect with Kara, host of The Special Needs Mom Podcast:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thespecialneedsmompodcast/
Website: https://www.kararyska.com/

Send us a text (Note: we are not able to respond but LOVE to hear from you!!)

This episode was such a treat. I got to catch up with my longtime friend Kelly Dixon—someone who knew me way back in my landscaping days (pre-leadership Kara 😅). Kelly has a fascinating background managing ultra-wealthy households, and while she’s not a special needs mom—or a mom at all—her systems-thinking brain totally applies to ourworld.

We talked about what it looks like to run your home like a well-functioning operation: from checklists to communication, boundaries to burnout. Kelly shared how to start small—think cleaning caddies and grocery lists—and how simple systems can free up your brain and actually give you back some peace.

I walked away feeling like, “Okay, I’m not that far from this.” And maybe, just maybe, I don’t need to reinvent my whole life to feel more supported. It starts with believing that it can be different—and then taking one step at a time.

Connect with Kara, host of The Special Needs Mom Podcast:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thespecialneedsmompodcast/
Website: https://www.kararyska.com/

Send us a text (Note: we are not able to respond but LOVE to hear from you!!)

Hello and welcome to the podcast. This week, I am excited to share my conversation with Dr. David Bilstrom! He shares a passion and heart to help women and specifically special needs mom, just like I do. Listen in as he gives actual medical evidence to how small practices can help heal our bodies and potentially prevent ailments and diseases as stress ravages our daily lives.

Free 7-day Educational E-mail Course
Full Show Notes

Connect with David:
Website: www.DrDavidBilstrom.com
IG: https://www.instagram.com/drdavidbilstrom/
Facebook: www.facebook.com/drdavidbilstrom
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/drdavidbilstrom
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/drdavidbilstrom

Connect with Kara, host of The Special Needs Mom Podcast:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thespecialneedsmompodcast/
Website: https://www.kararyska.com/

Send us a text (Note: we are not able to respond but LOVE to hear from you!!)

Hello and Welcome to the podcast. In this episode, I am doing an activation session, which is a real coaching session, with Nikol. We talk about her struggles with burnout, overwhelm and her loathing of self-care.  I turn the tables a little bit and have her dig deeper and also help her gain a new understanding of what self-care should actually be.

Full Show Notes

Connect with Kara, host of The Special Needs Mom Podcast:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thespecialneedsmompodcast/
Website: https://www.kararyska.com/

Send us a text (Note: we are not able to respond but LOVE to hear from you!!)

Hello and welcome to the podcast. This week's episode is a shorter one, as I'm trying to take my own advice. In this episode, I want you to hear and implement the questions I share and do what you can to make things even just 1% easier for yourself.

Full Show Notes

Connect with Kara, host of The Special Needs Mom Podcast:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thespecialneedsmompodcast/
Website: https://www.kararyska.com/

Send us a text (Note: we are not able to respond but LOVE to hear from you!!)

Hello and welcome to the podcast. This week, I did a community huddle with moms Brooke and Rachel. We talked about our history of summer struggles and how we can start this summer being prepared and having a game plan!

Full Show Notes

Connect with Kara, host of The Special Needs Mom Podcast:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thespecialneedsmompodcast/
Website: https://www.kararyska.com/

Send us a text (Note: we are not able to respond but LOVE to hear from you!!)

Hello and welcome to the podcast. This week is a short episode but a big topic! I’m talking about being an endurance mother.  For most of us, we’re special needs parents for the long haul. Often, the days are long, the weeks are packed and we are always doing something.

Full Show Notes

Connect with Kara, host of The Special Needs Mom Podcast:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thespecialneedsmompodcast/
Website: https://www.kararyska.com/

Send us a text (Note: we are not able to respond but LOVE to hear from you!!)

Hello and welcome back to the podcast. I am always looking for new ideas and types of episodes to bring to this community. Today's episode is a conversation with 3 other special needs moms and myself about birthdays. We talk about the high and lows around birthdays with friends, siblings and our special needs children.

Connect with Kara, host of The Special Needs Mom Podcast:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thespecialneedsmompodcast/
Website: https://www.kararyska.com/

Send us a text (Note: we are not able to respond but LOVE to hear from you!!)

Hello and welcome to the podcast. This week I have two activation sessions. This episode is with Jodi. Jodi has done the hard work with other moms and has dug deep within herself. However, this session has helped uncover some inner work she still has to do. 

Connect with Kara, host of The Special Needs Mom Podcast:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thespecialneedsmompodcast/
Website: https://www.kararyska.com/

Send us a text (Note: we are not able to respond but LOVE to hear from you!!)

Hello and welcome to the podcast. This week I have two activation sessions. This episode is with Isabel. She gets real with her struggles to become more present with her children. Isabel all shares with me a lot of emotions she hasn't come to terms with surrounding her childrens' diagnosis and the pushback/feedback from her family and community.

Hello and welcome to the podcast. This week's episode is another activation session. I have Laura with me and we're talking about the struggles of shifting out of caregiver and into that mothering role. It is hard to be the caregiver and we often are missing out on the joys and beauties of motherhood. I hope the plan I lay out with Laura can help you switch your mindset too.

Connect with Kara, host of The Special Needs Mom Podcast:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thespecialneedsmompodcast/
Website: https://www.kararyska.com/

Send us a text (Note: we are not able to respond but LOVE to hear from you!!)

Hello and welcome to the podcast. This week I want to address that elephant in the room that is your life. I'm calling it a rock and it is just impossible to move or destroy. That rock is likely a diagnosis or something permanent about your child. A rock that is seemingly keeping you from freedom, from hobbies, from more joy. Let's change your perspective and get back the control!

Full Show Notes

Connect with Kara, host of The Special Needs Mom Podcast:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thespecialneedsmompodcast/
Website: https://www.kararyska.com/

Send us a text (Note: we are not able to respond but LOVE to hear from you!!)

Hello and welcome back to the podcast. This week's episode is a short one, but I am focusing on 2 simple questions to help you move from feeling alone.

Connect with Kara, host of The Special Needs Mom Podcast:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thespecialneedsmompodcast/
Website: https://www.kararyska.com/

Send us a text (Note: we are not able to respond but LOVE to hear from you!!)

I didn’t plan to end up emotionally fried by the end of summer... but there I was. I hit my limit. So, I did something radical (for a special needs mom, at least): I took myself to the beach. Alone. No kids. No caregiving. Just me, the ocean, and a much-needed van therapy session overlooking the waves.

And wouldn’t you know it—while body surfing, I ran into a fellow special needs mom friend, totally by surprise. The odds were wild. We both chose the same beach, at the same time, from different corners of San Diego. It felt divinely orchestrated.

This experience reminded me just how extreme the job of a special needs mom really is. Like, Olympic-level extreme. So what if we treated ourselves accordingly? What if we supported ourselves like Serena Williams supports her game—with specialists, intentional recovery, and next-level planning?

In this episode, I talk about what it means to be an “extreme mom,” why our current support systems aren’t cutting it, and what baby steps you can take to start acknowledging and supporting yourself like the elite performer you are.

If nothing else, I double dog dare you to use the text link at the top of the show notes to say it with me: “I am an extreme mom.” Or just say hi—I'll never know it's you, but it makes my day when I get those messages.

Connect with Kara, host of The Special Needs Mom Podcast:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thespecialneedsmompodcast/
Website: https://www.kararyska.com/

Send us a text (Note: we are not able to respond but LOVE to hear from you!!)

Hello and welcome to the podcast. This week, I'm giving you some life updates on scans and a big trip we took! I'm also using a couple personal stories to share concepts for all you special needs mom about taking breaks, finding the context and being able to let go of the fight!

Connect with Kara, host of The Special Needs Mom Podcast:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thespecialneedsmompodcast/
Website: https://www.kararyska.com/

Send us a text (Note: we are not able to respond but LOVE to hear from you!!)

Hello and welcome to the podcast. This week's episode is another activation session. I have Laura with me and we're talking about the struggles of shifting out of caregiver and into that mothering role. It is hard to be the caregiver and we often are missing out on the joys and beauties of motherhood. I hope the plan I lay out with Laura can help you switch your mindset too.

Connect with Kara, host of The Special Needs Mom Podcast:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thespecialneedsmompodcast/
Website: https://www.kararyska.com/

Send us a text (Note: we are not able to respond but LOVE to hear from you!!)

Hello and welcome back to the podcast. This week I am sharing another activation session featuring mom, Dominique. She wants to have less anxiety, worry & overwhelm in her daily life and that's where I came in to help her make a plan!  While your story may not be the same as Dominique's, I think the steps I lay out can be beneficial to any special needs mom.

Connect with Kara, host of The Special Needs Mom Podcast:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thespecialneedsmompodcast/
Website: https://www.kararyska.com/