Hello Brave Friends! Welcome to our Season 8 wrap up episode, #222. 

The host of the 'Brave Together Parenting Podcast' addresses the 'Brave Mom Squad,' expressing gratitude and celebrating the podcast's five-year anniversary and 220+ episodes. Reflecting on Season 8, the host highlights top episodes and thanks sponsors Rise Educational Advocacy, Pediatric Minds, and Yoga Six Rolling Hills. 'We Are Brave Together' is introduced as the nonprofit supporting caregivers through support groups, retreats, and special events. An anecdote about a family 5K walk illustrates the challenges and victories of caregiving. Season 9 will focus on mental health, with expert guests and parent stories to destigmatize mental health issues. The host encourages listener engagement and emphasizes the podcast's role as a supportive community for caregivers.

Find our first book from We Are Brave Together here.

Find full episodes from Season 7 and clips from Season 8 on Youtube here.

Brave Together Parenting is the podcast for We are Brave Together, a not-for-profit organization based in the USA. The heart of We Are Brave Together is to strengthen, encourage, inspire and validate all moms of children with disabilities and other needs in their unique journeys.

JOIN the international community of We Are Brave Together here.

Donate to our Retreats and Respite Scholarships here.

Donate to keep this podcast going here. Can’t get enough of the Brave Together Podcast?

Follow us on Instagram or on Facebook.

Feel free to contact Jessica Patay via email: jpatay@wearebravetogether.org

If you have any topic requests or if you would like to share a story, leave us a message here.

Please leave a review and rating today! We thank you in advance!

Disclaimer

Hello Brave Friends! Welcome to today's story episode, #221. These are true stories from a moment in the life of a caregiving parent. We hear a crafted story, and then have a conversation with our guests that goes deeper into their experience.

In this heartfelt conversation, Chris and Jessica Patay reflect on their journey as parents of a child with Prader-Willi syndrome. They discuss the challenges and joys of parenting, the importance of community support, and the lessons learned from their son Ryan. Chris shares insights on fatherhood, the shifting expectations of parenting, and the value of maintaining hope and engagement in the face of adversity. The conversation emphasizes the need for self-care and the beauty found in the unique traits of children with special needs.

Find our first book from We Are Brave Together here.

Find full episodes from Season 7 and clips from Season 8 on Youtube here.

Brave Together Parenting is the podcast for We are Brave Together, a not-for-profit organization based in the USA. The heart of We Are Brave Together is to strengthen, encourage, inspire and validate all moms of children with disabilities and other needs in their unique journeys.

JOIN the international community of We Are Brave Together here.

Donate to our Retreats and Respite Scholarships here.

Donate to keep this podcast going here. Can’t get enough of the Brave Together Podcast?

Follow us on Instagram or on Facebook.

Feel free to contact Jessica Patay via email: jpatay@wearebravetogether.org

If you have any topic requests or if you would like to share a story, leave us a message here.

Please leave a review and rating today! We thank you in advance!

Disclaimer

Hello Brave Friends! This is an Ask Us Anything episode in which YOU, the listener, get to write or call in and, you guessed it, ASK US ANYTHING! 

In this Ask Us Anything episode, #220, we are responding to the question, What can I say to myself and what can others say to me in the midst of chronic hardship?

In this final AUA episode of season eight, the hosts reflect on the challenges and unexpected gifts of caregiving. They discuss the importance of self-compassion, validation, and effective communication in navigating the emotional landscape of caregiving. The conversation emphasizes the need for caregivers to acknowledge their own feelings, communicate their needs, and practice positive self-talk. The episode concludes with affirmations for caregivers and a heartfelt farewell as they prepare for the next season.

Keep the questions coming, we’re here to support you! Whether you have questions as a parent to a child with complex medical or mental health needs or you’re someone looking to support a care-giving parent, we would LOVE to hear from you. We see you and we love you! Leave us a message here.

Find more information about Licensed Psychotherapist, Dr. Zoe Shaw here. 

Find more information about Life Coach, Susanna Peace Lovell here.

Find Susanna’s book, Your True Self is Enough here.

Find our first book from We Are Brave Together here.

Find full episodes from Season 7 and clips from Season 8 on Youtube here.

Brave Together Parenting is the podcast for We are Brave Together, a not-for-profit organization based in the USA. The heart of We Are Brave Together is to strengthen, encourage, inspire and validate all moms of children with disabilities and other needs in their unique journeys.

JOIN the international community of We Are Brave Together here.

Donate to our Retreats and Respite Scholarships here.

Donate to keep this podcast going here. Can’t get enough of the Brave Together Podcast?

Follow us on Instagram or on Facebook.

Feel free to contact Jessica Patay via email: jpatay@wearebravetogether.org

If you have any topic requests or if you would like to share a story, leave us a message here.

Please leave a review and rating today! We thank you in advance!

Disclaimer

Hello Brave Friends! Welcome to today's expert episode, #219. These are conversations with experts in fields relevant to caregiving parents. 

On this episode we have Tammie Penta PD, a retired Police Sergeant and Brave Mom to an adult son with Prader-Willi syndrome who trains police departments all over the country to interact safely with adults living with PWS and other intellectual disabilities.

In this conversation, Jessica Patay and Tammie Penta PD, discuss the importance of preparing families with developmental disabilities for interactions with law enforcement. Tammie shares her personal experiences and insights on how to effectively communicate with law enforcement, engage with neighbors, and prepare for a potential crisis. The discussion emphasizes the need for proactive measures, such as creating a blue form for quick reference during emergencies, and fostering relationships with local law enforcement to ensure better outcomes for individuals with disabilities.

Retired Sergeant Tammie Penta worked for the Tucson Police Department where she was a police officer for over 27 years, with the last 20 as a sergeant. Tammie was a detective sergeant for the Elder Abuse Task Force, which included investigations of vulnerable adults, the Child Abuse/Homicide Unit, Special Investigations and Aggravated Assault Unit. Additionally she was the training supervisor responsible for new officers coming into law enforcement and completed her career as the administrative supervisor for the largest division in the city.

Find more information about Tammie Penta PD here.

Download Blue Forms here and here.

This episode was generously sponsored by Pediatric Minds.

Find our first book from We Are Brave Together here.

Find full episodes from Season 7 and clips from Season 8 on Youtube here.

Brave Together Parenting is the podcast for We are Brave Together, a not-for-profit organization based in the USA. The heart of We Are Brave Together is to strengthen, encourage, inspire and validate all moms of children with disabilities and other needs in their unique journeys.

JOIN the international community of We Are Brave Together here.

Donate to our Retreats and Respite Scholarships here.

Donate to keep this podcast going here. Can’t get enough of the Brave Together Podcast?

Follow us on Instagram or on Facebook.

Feel free to contact Jessica Patay via email: jpatay@wearebravetogether.org

If you have any topic requests or if you would like to share a story, leave us a message here.

Please leave a review and rating today! We thank you in advance!

Disclaimer

Hello Brave Friends! Welcome to today's story episode, #218. These are true stories from a moment in the life of a caregiving parent. We hear a crafted story, and then have a conversation with our guests that goes deeper into their experience.

This episode is VERY special because we have on the podcast today, not one, not two, but ALL THREE authors of the instant New York Times Bestseller, Autism Out Loud: Life with a Child on the Spectrum, from Diagnosis to Young Adulthood―Moving Stories and Parenting Lessons Learned from Three Mothers of Children with Autism. Carrie Cariello, Kate Swenson and Adrian Wood join me and my other two co-costs Susanna Peace Lovell and Dr. Zoe Shaw, and let me tell you, it’s a party!

In this engaging conversation, a group of mothers share their experiences and insights on parenting children with autism, focusing on the challenges and joys of navigating their children's journeys into adulthood. They discuss the importance of community, the collaborative effort behind their book, and the emotional complexities of letting go as their children grow. The conversation highlights the need for resources and support for parents, especially those facing the transition to adulthood, and emphasizes the beauty and joy that can be found in the journey of raising children with autism. The discussion also touches on the societal perceptions of autism and the need for honest dialogue about the realities of living with autism.

Order your copy of Autism Out Loud here.

Find more about Carrie Cariello here.

Find more about Adrian Wood here.

Find more about Kate Swenson here.

This episode was generously sponsored by Pediatric Minds.

Find our first book from We Are Brave Together here.

Find full episodes from Season 7 and clips from Season 8 on

Brave Together Parenting is the podcast for We are Brave Together, a not-for-profit organization based in the USA. The heart of We Are Brave Together is to strengthen, encourage, inspire and validate all moms of children with disabilities and other needs in their unique journeys.

JOIN the international community of We Are Brave Together here.

Donate to our Retreats and Respite Scholarships here.

Donate to keep this podcast going here. Can’t get enough of the Brave Together Podcast?

Follow us on Instagram or on Facebook.

Feel free to contact Jessica Patay via email: jpatay@wearebravetogether.org

If you have any topic requests or if you would like to share a story, leave us a message here.

Please leave a review and rating today! We thank you in advance!

Disclaimer

Hello Brave Friends! Welcome to today's expert episode, #217. These are conversations with experts in fields relevant to caregiving parents. 

Today, Brave Together founder, Jessica Patay and author Kelley Coleman interview Tom Chiodo. Tom Chiodo is the Executive Producer Special Projects, National Productions at WETA, flagship PBS station in Washington D.C., developing primetime documentary films and original digital content, accompanied by national impact and engagement campaigns, for 330+ PBS stations. 

Tom joins us to discuss the upcoming PBS documentary on caregiving, called Caregiving, highlighting the joys and challenges faced by caregivers. He shares personal experiences and emphasizes the importance of community support and resources for caregivers. The discussion also touches on mental health, self-care, and the need to change the narrative around caregiving to foster understanding and support. Tom advocates for breaking routines to find joy and suggests innovative resources to assist caregivers in their journey.

Caregiving, the documentary created with executive producer Bradley Cooper highlighting the challenges and triumphs of caregiving in America, will premiere Tuesday, June 24, 2025 at 9 p.m. ET on PBS (check local listings), and on the PBS YouTube Channel. Caregiving will be available to stream on PBS.org and the PBS App beginning Tuesday, May 27, 2025.

Check out the Caregiving trailer at wellbeings.org here.

Check out Kelley Coleman’s book, Everything No One Tells You About Parenting a Disabled Child here.

Find our first book from We Are Brave Together here.

Find full episodes from Season 7 and clips from Season 8 on Youtube here.

Brave Together Parenting is the podcast for We are Brave Together, a not-for-profit organization based in the USA. The heart of We Are Brave Together is to strengthen, encourage, inspire and validate all moms of children with disabilities and other needs in their unique journeys.

JOIN the international community of We Are Brave Together here.

Donate to our Retreats and Respite Scholarships here.

Donate to keep this podcast going here. Can’t get enough of the Brave Together Podcast?

Follow us on Instagram or on Facebook.

Feel free to contact Jessica Patay via email: jpatay@wearebravetogether.org

If you have any topic requests or if you would like to share a story, leave us a message here.

Please leave a review and rating today! We thank you in advance!

Disclaimer

Hello Brave friends! May is Prader-Willi Syndrome Awareness Month and, as you probably know by now, my son Ryan has Prader-Willi Syndrome. He’s 21, almost 22, and today we are re-releasing episode number 100 from Season 3, in which I shared the story of how we told Ryan about his diagnosis. And after the story, I have the joy and the privilege of interviewing Ryan, but go grab a Kleenex because, as you will hear, he ends up interviewing me. So thank you for being here and I hope you enjoy listening to this re-release from a few years ago in celebration of Prader-Willi Syndrome Awareness Month.

Find full episodes from Season 7 and clips from Season 8 on Youtube here.

Find our first book from We Are Brave Together here.

Brave Together Parenting is the podcast for We are Brave Together, a not-for-profit organization based in the USA. The heart of We Are Brave Together is to strengthen, encourage, inspire and validate all moms of children with disabilities and other needs in their unique journeys.

JOIN the international community of We Are Brave Together here.

Donate to our Retreats and Respite Scholarships here.

Donate to keep this podcast going here. Can’t get enough of the Brave Together Podcast?

Follow us on Instagram or on Facebook.

Feel free to contact Jessica Patay via email: jpatay@wearebravetogether.org

If you have any topic requests or if you would like to share a story, leave us a message here.

Please leave a review and rating today! We thank you in advance!

Disclaimer

Hello Brave Friends! Welcome to today's story episode, #216. These are true stories from a moment in the life of a caregiving parent. We hear a crafted story, and then have a conversation with our guests that goes deeper into their experience.

In this heartfelt conversation, Dr. Zoe Shaw interviews author and speaker, Kelly Lang, who shares her profound journey following a traumatic car accident that changed her and her daughter's life forever. She recounts the harrowing moments of the accident, the struggles of recovery, and the emotional challenges faced as a caregiver. Kelly discusses the importance of understanding traumatic brain injury, the role of advocacy, and how she has turned her experiences into a platform for education and support. 

Kelly Lang, co-author of The Miracle Child: Traumatic Brain Injury and Me is a brain injury survivor and caregiver to her daughter who sustained a traumatic brain injury in 2001. Kelly is an Author, Public Speaker, Communications Trainer, and Advocate. She co-leads the Brain Injury Association of America’s Advisory Council and serves on the Virginia Brain Injury Advisory Council. Kelly’s advocacy experience includes working with the National Center on Advancing Person-Centered Practices and Systems’ Brain Injury Learning Collaborative as a faculty member and co-chaired the Traumatic Brain Injury Leadership Group and served on the Person-Centered Advisory Group. Kelly has been the Keynote speaker at a number of state brain injury conferences and conducted workshops and webinars about brain injury and advocacy. 

Find Kelly on IG: https://www.instagram.com/momof3misses/

Find Kelly’s book on FB: https://www.facebook.com/people/The-Miracle-Child-Traumatic-Brain-Injury-and-Me/100066688996682/

Find our first book from We Are Brave Together here.

Find full episodes from Season 7 and clips from Season 8 on Youtube here.

Brave Together Parenting is the podcast for We are Brave Together, a not-for-profit organization based in the USA. The heart of We Are Brave Together is to strengthen, encourage, inspire and validate all moms of children with disabilities and other needs in their unique journeys.

JOIN the international community of We Are Brave Together here.

Donate to our Retreats and Respite Scholarships here.

Donate to keep this podcast going here. Can’t get enough of the Brave Together Podcast?

Follow us on Instagram or on Facebook.

Feel free to contact Jessica Patay via email: jpatay@wearebravetogether.org

If you have any topic requests or if you would like to share a story, leave us a message here.

Please leave a review and rating today! We thank you in advance!

Disclaimer

Hello Brave Friends! On this episode, #215, we are hearing about the experience of another Thriving Disabled Adult, Kelly Pozil! Kelly was born with TAR syndrome that resulted in having no radius bone in both her arms. 

In this conversation she shares about what it was like growing up in a very physically active family, how her parents instilled confidence in her, and how she coped with the big feelings by appearing brave and resilient. She also emphasizes the significance of doing the deep work to feel and understand her own feelings and points out the strength and resilience of individuals with disabilities and the need for a more positive perspective on disability.

Professionally, Kelly is a para in a kindergarten special ed class and the graphic designer for Angel City Sports, an organization that offers free year round adaptive sports in Los Angeles, California. She is a delight to talk with and we are so grateful she joined us on the podcast. 

Check out Kelly Pozil’s graphic design website here.

Check out Angel City Sports here.

.

Find our first book from We Are Brave Together here.

Find full episodes from Season 7 and clips from Season 8 on Youtube here.

Brave Together Parenting is the podcast for We are Brave Together, a not-for-profit organization based in the USA. The heart of We Are Brave Together is to strengthen, encourage, inspire and validate all moms of children with disabilities and other needs in their unique journeys.

JOIN the international community of We Are Brave Together here.

Donate to our Retreats and Respite Scholarships here.

Donate to keep this podcast going here. Can’t get enough of the Brave Together Podcast?

Follow us on Instagram or on Facebook.

Feel free to contact Jessica Patay via email: jpatay@wearebravetogether.org

If you have any topic requests or if you would like to share a story, leave us a message here.

Please leave a review and rating today! We thank you in advance!

Disclaimer

Hello Brave Friends! This is an Ask Us Anything episode in which YOU, the listener, get to write or call in and, you guessed it, ASK US ANYTHING! 

In this Ask Us Anything episode, #214, we are responding to the question, What do we do with ALL THESE EMOTIONS when we don’t feel like we have time and space to process them?

In this conversation, hosts, Jessica, Susanna and Dr. Zoe discuss the complex emotions experienced by caregivers, emphasizing the importance of acknowledging and processing these feelings. They explore the challenges of hypervigilance as a trauma response and provide insights on how to manage it effectively. The discussion highlights the necessity of self-compassion and the benefits of emotional processing for mental health and well-being.

Keep the questions coming, we’re here to support you! Whether you have questions as a parent to a child with complex medical or mental health needs or you’re someone looking to support a care-giving parent, we would LOVE to hear from you. We see you and we love you! Leave us a message here.

Find more information about Licensed Psychotherapist, Dr. Zoe Shaw here. 

Find more information about Life Coach, Susanna Peace Lovell here.

Find Susanna’s book, Your True Self is Enough here.

This episode was sponsored by Rise Educational Advocacy.

Find our first book from We Are Brave Together here.

Find full episodes from Season 7 and clips from Season 8 on Youtube here.

Brave Together Parenting is the podcast for We are Brave Together, a not-for-profit organization based in the USA. The heart of We Are Brave Together is to strengthen, encourage, inspire and validate all moms of children with disabilities and other needs in their unique journeys.

JOIN the international community of We Are Brave Together here.

Donate to our Retreats and Respite Scholarships here.

Donate to keep this podcast going here. Can’t get enough of the Brave Together Podcast?

Follow us on Instagram or on Facebook.

Feel free to contact Jessica Patay via email: jpatay@wearebravetogether.org

If you have any topic requests or if you would like to share a story, leave us a message here.

Please leave a review and rating today! We thank you in advance!

Disclaimer

Hello Brave Friends! Welcome to today's story episode, #213. These are true stories from a moment in the life of a caregiving parent. We hear a crafted story, and then have a conversation with our guests that goes deeper into their experience.

In this episode of the Brave Together Parenting Podcast, host Jessica Patay welcomes Jennifer Iannuzzi, LCSW, a mother and Connection Circle leader, to discuss the challenges and triumphs of parenting a child with unique needs. Jennifer shares her personal journey, including her daughter's diagnosis of Smith-Magenis syndrome, and the impact it has had on her family. The conversation delves into the feelings of shame and guilt that caregivers often experience, the importance of support and validation, and how to transform shame into empowerment. 

Find Jennifer Iannuzzi here.

Find Jennifer Iannuzzi’s Blog here.

Find our first book from We Are Brave Together here.

Find full episodes from Season 7 and clips from Season 8 on Youtube here.

This episode was sponsored by Rise Educational Advocacy. 

Brave Together Parenting is the podcast for We are Brave Together, a not-for-profit organization based in the USA. The heart of We Are Brave Together is to strengthen, encourage, inspire and validate all moms of children with disabilities and other needs in their unique journeys.

JOIN the international community of We Are Brave Together here.

Donate to our Retreats and Respite Scholarships here.

Donate to keep this podcast going here. Can’t get enough of the Brave Together Podcast?

Follow us on Instagram or on Facebook.

Feel free to contact Jessica Patay via email: jpatay@wearebravetogether.org

If you have any topic requests or if you would like to share a story, leave us a message here.

Please leave a review and rating today! We thank you in advance!

Disclaimer

Hello Brave Friends! This is an Ask Us Anything episode in which YOU, the listener, get to write or call in and, you guessed it, ASK US ANYTHING! 

In this Ask Us Anything episode, #212, we are responding to the question, How do I unplug from constant hyper-vigilance in my caregiving?

In this conversation, Jessica, Zoe, and Susanna explore the theme of hypervigilance in parenting, particularly in the context of caring for children with any and all disabilities. They discuss the emotional toll of being constantly alert and the importance of recognizing this state as a protective response. The trio shares personal experiences and insights on how motherhood has evolved for them, highlighting the unexpected gifts that come with parenting. They also delve into practical strategies for managing hypervigilance, including grounding techniques and the necessity of self-compassion. Ultimately, the conversation emphasizes the importance of support and understanding within the caregiving community.

Keep the questions coming, we’re here to support you! Whether you have questions as a parent to a child with complex medical or mental health needs or you’re someone looking to support a care-giving parent, we would LOVE to hear from you. We see you and we love you! Leave us a message here.

Find more information about Licensed Psychotherapist, Dr. Zoe Shaw here. 

Find more information about Life Coach, Susanna Peace Lovell here.

This episode was sponsored by Rise Educational Advocacy.

Find our first book from We Are Brave Together here.

Find full episodes from Season 7 and clips from Season 8 on Youtube here.

Brave Together Parenting is the podcast for We are Brave Together, a not-for-profit organization based in the USA. The heart of We Are Brave Together is to strengthen, encourage, inspire and validate all moms of children with disabilities and other needs in their unique journeys.

JOIN the international community of We Are Brave Together here.

Donate to our Retreats and Respite Scholarships here.

Donate to keep this podcast going here. Can’t get enough of the Brave Together Podcast?

Follow us on Instagram or on Facebook.

Feel free to contact Jessica Patay via email: jpatay@wearebravetogether.org

If you have any topic requests or if you would like to share a story, leave us a message here.

Please leave a review and rating today! We thank you in advance!

Disclaimer

Hello Brave Friends! Welcome to today's expert episode, #211. These are conversations with experts in fields relevant to caregiving parents. 

Our guest today is LMFT Amanda Griffith-Atkins, who is another Brave PWS mom as well as an author with a book coming out in June! Hooray! Her book is called How to Handle More Than You Can Handle: Caregiving for Yourself While Raising a Disabled Child.We’ve had Amanda on before too, so if you want to hear more from her we’ll link to that episode, #144, and, of course, we encourage you to pre-order her book, using the link above. 

On this episode, we will be focusing on those understandable times when we catch ourselves wishing our child had a different diagnosis and comparing our caregiving challenges to other parent’s challenges. It’s so common, so understandable and as you’ll hear, we ALL find ourselves there from time to time, so it’s nothing to feel shame about. Our discussion highlights how navigating these feelings can ultimately lead to a deeper understanding of oneself and one's parenting journey.

Find Amanda on IG here and here.

Find our first book from We Are Brave Together here.

Find full episodes from Season 7 and clips from Season 8 on Youtube here.

This episode was sponsored by Rise Educational Advocacy. 

Brave Together Parenting is the podcast for We are Brave Together, a not-for-profit organization based in the USA. The heart of We Are Brave Together is to strengthen, encourage, inspire and validate all moms of children with disabilities and other needs in their unique journeys.

JOIN the international community of We Are Brave Together here.

Donate to our Retreats and Respite Scholarships here.

Donate to keep this podcast going here. Can’t get enough of the Brave Together Podcast?

Follow us on Instagram or on Facebook.

Feel free to contact Jessica Patay via email: jpatay@wearebravetogether.org

If you have any topic requests or if you would like to share a story, leave us a message here.

Please leave a review and rating today! We thank you in advance!

Disclaimer

Hello Brave Friends! Welcome to today's story episode, #210. These are true stories from a moment in the life of a caregiving parent. We hear a crafted story, and then have a conversation with our guests that goes deeper into their experience.

Today we hear from one of our amazing connection circle leaders, Lindsay Hooten, whose son was diagnosed with autism in 2022. She opens up in this episode about why it took her YEARS to share about her child’s diagnosis.

In this episode, Lindsay shares her personal journey of finding her voice and the importance and power of sharing her story. She discusses the significance of radical acceptance, the complicated sibling experience, and the need for a supportive community that gets it. Lindsay also addresses the challenges of navigating relationships and the losses that can occur when sharing about her child's diagnosis.

Connect with Lindsay Hooten here.

So You Want to Be A Connection Circle Leader (Info Sheet).

Connection Leader Application (Form).

Find What Siblings Need here.

Find our first book from We Are Brave Together here.

Find full episodes from Season 7 and highlight clips from Season 8 on Youtube here.

This episode was sponsored by Rise Educational Advocacy.

Brave Together Parenting is the podcast for We are Brave Together, a not-for-profit organization based in the USA. The heart of We Are Brave Together is to strengthen, encourage, inspire and validate all moms of children with disabilities and other needs in their unique journeys.

JOIN the international community of We Are Brave Together here.

Donate to our Retreats and Respite Scholarships here.

Donate to keep this podcast going here. Can’t get enough of the Brave Together Podcast?

Follow us on Instagram or on Facebook.

Feel free to contact Jessica Patay via email: jpatay@wearebravetogether.org

If you have any topic requests or if you would like to share a story, leave us a message here.

Please leave a review and rating today! We thank you in advance!

Disclaimer

Hello Brave Friends! This is an Ask Us Anything episode in which YOU, the listener, get to write or call in and, you guessed it, ASK US ANYTHING! 

In this Ask Us Anything episode, #209, we are responding to the question, How do we help our children feel empowered instead of defeated by their mental health diagnosis? 

In this conversation co-hosts Jessica Patay, Susanna Peace Lovell and Dr. Zoe Shaw explore the importance of language in shaping self-perception and mental health. They discuss how different identities can be embraced and the power of affirmations in fostering a positive self-image. The conversation also touches on the challenges of discussing mental health with our kids in the context of social media and ways we can help them see themselves as whole human beings first.

Keep the questions coming, we’re here to support you! Whether you have questions as a parent to a child with complex medical or mental health needs or you’re someone looking to support a care-giving parent, we would LOVE to hear from you. We see you and we love you! Leave us a message here.

Find more information about Licensed Psychotherapist, Dr. Zoe Shaw here. 

Find more information about Life Coach, Susanna Peace Lovell here.

Find Susanna’s book, Your True Self is Enough here.

This episode was sponsored by Rise Educational Advocacy and YogaSix Rolling Hills: mention you heard this ad at YogaSix and get a free week of classes at the YogaSix Rolling Hills, CA studio location.

Find our first book from We Are Brave Together here. 

Find full episodes from Season 7 and clips from Season 8 on Youtube here

Brave Together Parenting is the podcast for We are Brave Together, a not-for-profit organization based in the USA. The heart of We Are Brave Together is to strengthen, encourage, inspire and validate all moms of children with disabilities and other needs in their unique journeys.

JOIN the international community of We Are Brave Together here.

Donate to our Retreats and Respite Scholarships here.

Donate to keep this podcast going here. Can’t get enough of the Brave Together Podcast?

Follow us on Instagram or on Facebook.

Feel free to contact Jessica Patay via email: jpatay@wearebravetogether.org

If you have any topic requests or if you would like to share a story, leave us a message here.

Please leave a review and rating today! We thank you in advance!

Disclaimer

Hello Brave Friends! On this Thriving Disabled Adults episode, #208, we are speaking to Thriving Disabled Adult, Nicole Demos.

In this conversation, Susanna Peace Lovell interviews Nicole (Nix) Demos, who shares about her journey growing up in Greece in the 1970’s with cerebral palsy. She also generously shares her experiences being rejected and embraced by different cultures, living in various countries, and her evolution into an inclusive educator. She discusses the challenges she faced in accessing care and support, the power of poetry as a means of expression, and the importance of relationships in navigating her disability. Nix emphasizes the need for advocacy and understanding in society, while also finding joy in her connection with her dog and the unconditional love it brings. The conversation concludes with a call to action for listeners to engage with and support the disabled community, fostering a sense of belonging and empowerment for all. 

Nicole Demos, a disabled inclusive educator for over 32 years, holds an M.A in Education and an M.Ed in International Counseling. Nicole worked in Greece, the US, Russia and the UK before teaching Learning Support at the International School of Helsinki. She has presented workshops on educational trends, and participated in podcasts and blogs. As an active member of the Diversability Leadership Collective and SENIA Europe, Nicole strives to educate on the importance of inclusion, disability identity, advocacy, equity and belonging. Since leaving the International School of Helsinki, Nicole has recently discovered a love for writing and has published poetry online here and here.This has led to her writing this poem to be included in a Danish architectural press publication highlighting diversity and inclusion. In addition Nicole has also been nominated to Diversability’s 2024 D-30 Disability Impact List for her continued efforts.  Her hobbies include reading, singing, baking, flower rescue and spending time with friends and her toy poodle Sisu.  

Find Nicole Demos: on Instagram here. on LinkedIn here. on Facebook

Brave Together Parenting is the podcast for We are Brave Together, a not-for-profit organization based in the USA. The heart of We Are Brave Together is to strengthen, encourage, inspire and validate all moms of children with disabilities and other needs in their unique journeys.

JOIN the international community of We Are Brave Together here.

Donate to our Retreats and Respite Scholarships here.

Donate to keep this podcast going here. Can’t get enough of the Brave Together Podcast?

Follow us on Instagram or on Facebook.

Feel free to contact Jessica Patay via email: jpatay@wearebravetogether.org

If you have any topic requests or if you would like to share a story, leave us a message here.

Please leave a review and rating today! We thank you in advance!

Disclaimer

Hello Brave Friends! Welcome to today's practical episode, #207. These are conversations with experts in fields relevant to caregiving parents. 

Our guest today is Brian Altounian. He is an entrepreneur, executive, and financial educator. His background includes business development, finance, operations and administration, and he has applied his skills to a variety of startups, Fortune 100 companies, and public and private organizations. He currently provides financial advice to individuals, families, and companies. Working in the areas of investments and insurance products and services through his Harborlight Financial Strategies company. He is also the co-founder and co-host of a weekly podcast supporting the special needs community called Just Two Dads. And he also sits on the board for We Are Brave Together He is a loving father of three and resides in Los Angeles, California. 

In this episode, Susanna Peace Lovell interviews Brian Altounian, discussing the financial challenges and solutions for families with special needs children. Brian shares his personal journey, and the critical role of financial professionals who get it. They dive into basic financial planning for when you have a child with unique needs, including trusts and life insurance, to ensure peace of mind for parents. They explore misconceptions about government support and the necessity of proactive financial strategies to secure a stable future for their children.

Find Brian on Facebook here. 

Find Brian on Instagram here.

Find Harborlight Financial Strategies here.

Find the Just Two Dads Podcast here.

Find our first book from We Are Brave Together here.

Find full episodes from Season 7 and clips from Season 8 on Youtube here.

This episode was sponsored by Rise Educational Advocacy. 

Brave Together is the podcast for We are Brave Together, a not-fo

Brave Together Parenting is the podcast for We are Brave Together, a not-for-profit organization based in the USA. The heart of We Are Brave Together is to strengthen, encourage, inspire and validate all moms of children with disabilities and other needs in their unique journeys.

JOIN the international community of We Are Brave Together here.

Donate to our Retreats and Respite Scholarships here.

Donate to keep this podcast going here. Can’t get enough of the Brave Together Podcast?

Follow us on Instagram or on Facebook.

Feel free to contact Jessica Patay via email: jpatay@wearebravetogether.org

If you have any topic requests or if you would like to share a story, leave us a message here.

Please leave a review and rating today! We thank you in advance!

Disclaimer

Hello Brave Friends! Welcome to today's story episode, #206. These are true stories from a moment in the life of a caregiving parent. We hear a crafted story, and then have a conversation with our guests that goes deeper into their experience.

In this conversation, hosted by Dr. Zoe Shaw, Jess Ronne shares her profound journey as a caregiver, navigating the challenges of raising a child with special needs while dealing with personal loss. She discusses the emotional and practical aspects of caregiving, the importance of community support, and the judgment faced from others in similar situations. Jess emphasizes the need for resilience and the creation of spaces for advocacy and support for families like hers. Jess also talks about her new book, 'Caregiving with Grit and Grace,' which serves as a devotional for caregivers, emphasizing the therapeutic nature of writing and the need for caregivers to step out of isolation and engage with their communities.

Jess Ronne is an author, speaker, podcast host at Coffee with Caregivers, associate producer of the Unseen Documentary, and caregiver advocate. She is founder and executive director of The Lucas Project, a non-profit dedicated to providing recognition, resources and respite support for special needs families. She and her husband Ryan live in Michigan with their 8 children, including their son Lucas who has profound disabilities. Her story of beauty from ashes has been shared on The Today Show, Daily Mail and Huffington Post and is detailed in her memoir Sunlight Burning at Midnight. 

Want more Jess Ronne? Here are some links: 

www.thelucasproject.org

www.caregiverdoc.com

www.facebook.com/jessronneofficial

www.instagram.com/jessplusthemess

Find our first book from We Are Brave Together here.

Find full episodes from Season 7 and clips from Season 8 on Youtube here.

This episode was sponsored by Rise Educational Advocacy. 

Brave Together is t

Brave Together Parenting is the podcast for We are Brave Together, a not-for-profit organization based in the USA. The heart of We Are Brave Together is to strengthen, encourage, inspire and validate all moms of children with disabilities and other needs in their unique journeys.

JOIN the international community of We Are Brave Together here.

Donate to our Retreats and Respite Scholarships here.

Donate to keep this podcast going here. Can’t get enough of the Brave Together Podcast?

Follow us on Instagram or on Facebook.

Feel free to contact Jessica Patay via email: jpatay@wearebravetogether.org

If you have any topic requests or if you would like to share a story, leave us a message here.

Please leave a review and rating today! We thank you in advance!

Disclaimer

Hello Brave Friends! Welcome to today's practical episode, #205. These are conversations with experts in fields relevant to caregiving parents. 

In this episode, Susanna Peace Lovell interviews Dr. Laura Froyen, who shares her journey as a parent and expert in human development. They discuss the challenges of parenting neurodiverse children, the importance of understanding different neurotypes, and the need for new parenting skills. Dr. Froyen introduces the Collaborative and Proactive Solutions model, emphasizing its accessibility and effectiveness in addressing parenting challenges. 

In this conversation, Laura Froyen, PhD, discusses the unique challenges faced by children with Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) and introduces the Collaborative and Proactive Solutions (CPS) model as a framework for effective parenting. She emphasizes the importance of compassion, understanding, and breaking down tasks into manageable steps to support children with executive functioning difficulties. The discussion also highlights the significance of involving children in problem-solving processes and offers resources for parents seeking guidance and support.

Connect with Dr. Laura Froyen here.

Find Dr. Laura Froyen on IG here.

Find Dr. Laura Froyen on Facebook here.

Find the Balancing U Membership here.

Find The Explosive Child by Dr. Ross Greene here.

Find the Lives in the Balance website here.

Find our first book from We Are Brave Together here.

Find full episodes from Season 7 and clips from Season 8 on Youtube here.

This episode was sponsored by Rise Educational Advocacy. 

Brave Together is the podcast for We are Brave Together, a not-for-profit or

Brave Together Parenting is the podcast for We are Brave Together, a not-for-profit organization based in the USA. The heart of We Are Brave Together is to strengthen, encourage, inspire and validate all moms of children with disabilities and other needs in their unique journeys.

JOIN the international community of We Are Brave Together here.

Donate to our Retreats and Respite Scholarships here.

Donate to keep this podcast going here. Can’t get enough of the Brave Together Podcast?

Follow us on Instagram or on Facebook.

Feel free to contact Jessica Patay via email: jpatay@wearebravetogether.org

If you have any topic requests or if you would like to share a story, leave us a message here.

Please leave a review and rating today! We thank you in advance!

Disclaimer

Hello Brave Friends! This is an Ask Us Anything episode in which YOU, the listener, get to write or call in and, you guessed it, ASK US ANYTHING! 

In this Ask Us Anything episode, #204, we are responding to the question, How do I Talk to My Kids about Natural Disasters? 
In this conversation, our hosts discuss the emotional impact of natural disasters and how to communicate effectively with children during these times. They emphasize the importance of choosing truth over comfort, validating children's feelings, and preparing for emergencies. The conversation also touches on the significance of using real words when discussing difficult topics and the hosts share personal experiences and resources to help families navigate these challenging situations together.

Keep the questions coming! Whether you have questions as a parent to a child with complex medical or mental health needs or you’re someone looking to support a care-giving parent, we would LOVE to hear from you. Leave us a message here.

Find They Hold the Line book here
Find the Good Inside Podcast with Dr. Becky on this topic here.
Find an Emergency Go Bag Pack List here.
Find more information about Licensed Psychotherapist, Dr. Zoe Shaw here.
Find more information about Life Coach, Susanna Peace Lovell here.
Find Susanna’s book, Your True Self is Enough here.
This episode was sponsored by Rise Educational Advocacy.
Find our first book from We Are Bra

Brave Together Parenting is the podcast for We are Brave Together, a not-for-profit organization based in the USA. The heart of We Are Brave Together is to strengthen, encourage, inspire and validate all moms of children with disabilities and other needs in their unique journeys.

JOIN the international community of We Are Brave Together here.

Donate to our Retreats and Respite Scholarships here.

Donate to keep this podcast going here. Can’t get enough of the Brave Together Podcast?

Follow us on Instagram or on Facebook.

Feel free to contact Jessica Patay via email: jpatay@wearebravetogether.org

If you have any topic requests or if you would like to share a story, leave us a message here.

Please leave a review and rating today! We thank you in advance!

Disclaimer

Hello Brave Friends! Welcome to today's practical episode, #203. These are conversations with experts in fields relevant to caregiving parents. 

In this episode of the Brave Together Parenting Podcast, host Jessica Patay interviews Hilarie Geurink, a registered dietitian specializing in blended tube feeding. Hilarie shares her journey into this niche area of nutrition, discussing the challenges families face with traditional tube feeding methods and the empowering benefits of incorporating blended diets. The conversation covers common myths, emotional aspects of feeding choices, practical guidelines for starting blended diets, and the importance of community support. Hilarie emphasizes that there are various options available for families, and it's essential to find what works best for each unique situation.

How to connect with Hilarie Geurink (Instagram): https://www.instagram.com/blendedtubefeeding/

How to get support and join her online community: https://blendedtubefeeding.com/blended-tube-feeding/ 

Find links to all the resources we talk about in this episode below:
Article on blenders and discount programs: https://blendedtubefeeding.com/the-best-blenders-for-tube-feeding-with-discounts/

Article on commercial real food formulas, what’s available, how to get samples, etc: https://blendedtubefeeding.com/real-food-tube-feeding-formulas-a-dietitians-review/

Article on navigating pushback from medical teams: https://blendedtubefeeding.com/blenderized-tube-feeding-what-does-the-research-actually-say/

Find our first book from We Are Brave Together here.

Find full episodes from Season 7 and clips from Season 8 on Youtube here.

This episode was sponsored by Rise Educational Advocacy

Brave Together Parenting is the podcast for We are Brave Together, a not-for-profit organization based in the USA. The heart of We Are Brave Together is to strengthen, encourage, inspire and validate all moms of children with disabilities and other needs in their unique journeys.

JOIN the international community of We Are Brave Together here.

Donate to our Retreats and Respite Scholarships here.

Donate to keep this podcast going here. Can’t get enough of the Brave Together Podcast?

Follow us on Instagram or on Facebook.

Feel free to contact Jessica Patay via email: jpatay@wearebravetogether.org

If you have any topic requests or if you would like to share a story, leave us a message here.

Please leave a review and rating today! We thank you in advance!

Disclaimer

Hello Brave Friends! Welcome to today's story episode, #202. These are true stories from a moment in the life of a caregiving parent. We hear a crafted story, and then have a conversation with our guests that goes deeper into their experience.

In this conversation, Kari Baker shares her transformative journey from a successful career in financial services to becoming a dedicated advocate for families with children who have invisible neurological differences. She discusses the challenges of parenting a child with autism, the importance of adapting parenting strategies, and the role of faith and community in healing. Kari emphasizes the need for self-care among caregivers and offers encouragement to parents facing difficulties in their children's behavior management. The conversation highlights the significance of resilience, support, and the continuous journey of learning in parenting.

Find Kari’s Website here.

Find Kari’s The KIND Families Podcast here.

Use code Brave10 for a discount on Keri Baker’s book, Finding KIND: Discovering Hope and Purpose while Loving Kids with Invisible Neurological Differences here.

Find our first book from We Are Brave Together here.

Find full episodes from Season 7 and clips from Season 8 on Youtube here.

This episode was sponsored by Rise Educational Advocacy. 

Brave Together is the podcast for We are Brave Together, a not-for-profit organization based in the USA. The heart of We Are Brave Together is to strengthen, encourage, inspire and validate all moms of children with disabilities and other needs in their unique journeys. 

JOIN the international community of We Are Brave Together here.

Donate to our Retreats and Respite Scholarships here.

Donate to keep this podcast going

Brave Together Parenting is the podcast for We are Brave Together, a not-for-profit organization based in the USA. The heart of We Are Brave Together is to strengthen, encourage, inspire and validate all moms of children with disabilities and other needs in their unique journeys.

JOIN the international community of We Are Brave Together here.

Donate to our Retreats and Respite Scholarships here.

Donate to keep this podcast going here. Can’t get enough of the Brave Together Podcast?

Follow us on Instagram or on Facebook.

Feel free to contact Jessica Patay via email: jpatay@wearebravetogether.org

If you have any topic requests or if you would like to share a story, leave us a message here.

Please leave a review and rating today! We thank you in advance!

Disclaimer

Hello Brave Friends! This is an Ask Us Anything episode in which YOU, the listener, get to write or call in and, you guessed it, ASK US ANYTHING! 

In this Ask Us Anything episode, #201, we are responding to the question, Am I alone in feeling like there is extra pressure on us caregiving mothers to be saint-like in our parenting?

In this episode, the hosts celebrate the New Year and the start of Season 8 by reflecting on their experiences of motherhood. They discuss the unexpected gifts that come with being a mother, the pressures of perfection, and the importance of authenticity and vulnerability in parenting. The conversation emphasizes the need for self-compassion and the understanding that it's okay to not always be a 'perfect' parent. The hosts encourage listeners to embrace the “rainbow” of emotions that come with motherhood and to recognize that their struggles are shared by many.

Keep the questions coming, we’re here to support you! We see you and we love you!

Whether you have questions as a parent to a child with complex medical or mental health needs or you’re someone looking to support a care-giving parent, we would LOVE to hear from you. 

If you have any topic requests or if you would like to ask a question, leave us a message here.

Find more information about Licensed Psychotherapist, Dr. Zoe Shaw here. 

Find more information about Life Coach, Susanna Peace Lovell here.

Find Susanna’s book, Your True Self is Enough here.

Find our first book from We Are Brave Together here.

Find full episodes from Season 7 and clips from Season 8 on Youtube here.

This episode was sponsored by Rise Educational Advocacy. 

Brave Together Parenting is the podcast for We are Brave Together, a not-for-profit organization based in the USA. The heart of We Are Brave Together is to strengthen, encourage, inspire and validate all moms of children with disabilities and other needs in their unique journeys.

JOIN the international community of We Are Brave Together here.

Donate to our Retreats and Respite Scholarships here.

Donate to keep this podcast going here. Can’t get enough of the Brave Together Podcast?

Follow us on Instagram or on Facebook.

Feel free to contact Jessica Patay via email: jpatay@wearebravetogether.org

If you have any topic requests or if you would like to share a story, leave us a message here.

Please leave a review and rating today! We thank you in advance!

Disclaimer

Hello, Brave Friends! Welcome to Season 8 of Brave Together Parenting, a helpful podcast for the parents of children all ages with all types of disabilities and diagnoses. Our mission is to provide you, the caregiving parent, with as many resources, relatable stories, and perspectives as possible so you can stop surviving and start thriving, or maybe a little bit of both. 

This season we are offering Ask Us Anything episodes to answer your burning questions, Story episodes, hearing from parents just like you, Thriving Disabled Adult episodes to give you hope and perspective on what's possible and we're bringing back Practical episodes to give you even more resources. 

We make this podcast as a lifeline for you. Please feel free to call into our speak pipe voicemail through the link in the show notes and leave us a message, leave us a question, leave us a request for a future episode. And do follow us on Instagram at we are brave together. Also, please take a moment to rate and review our podcast so that we can best serve you.

And so that this podcast can get into the ears and hearts of more and more parents. We offer you community here at Brave Together Parenting and remind you every chance we get that you are beautiful, strong, and definitely not alone. We see you and we love you. Welcome to Season 8. 

Our big sponsor this season is Rise Educational Advocacy. 

Brave Together is the podcast for We are Brave Together, a not-for-profit organization based in the USA. The heart of We Are Brave Together is to strengthen, encourage, inspire and validate all moms of children with disabilities and other needs in their unique journeys. 

JOIN the international community of We Are Brave Together here.

Find our first book from We Are Brave Together here.

Donate to our Retreats and Respite Scholarships here.

Donate to keep this podcast going here.

Can’t get enough of the Brave Together Podcast?

Follow our Instagram Page @wearebravetogether or on

Brave Together Parenting is the podcast for We are Brave Together, a not-for-profit organization based in the USA. The heart of We Are Brave Together is to strengthen, encourage, inspire and validate all moms of children with disabilities and other needs in their unique journeys.

JOIN the international community of We Are Brave Together here.

Donate to our Retreats and Respite Scholarships here.

Donate to keep this podcast going here. Can’t get enough of the Brave Together Podcast?

Follow us on Instagram or on Facebook.

Feel free to contact Jessica Patay via email: jpatay@wearebravetogether.org

If you have any topic requests or if you would like to share a story, leave us a message here.

Please leave a review and rating today! We thank you in advance!

Disclaimer

Hello Brave Friends! This is story episode #182, about what can happen when parents presume competence in their non-verbal, autistic son. 

Today we hear from Jason Hague about his experience accepting his autistic son Jack’s presumed intellectual disability, making peace with it, and then seeing a documentary that changed everything.

Welcome to today's story episode: How Spelling Revealed a Non-Verbal Teen’s Brilliance.

Jason Hague has been telling his story of faith, fatherhood, and autism on his blog for years and years now. He also has a fabulous book called “Aching Joy: Following God through the Land of Unanswered Prayer” which chronicles his own spiritual and emotional journey with his son Jack and the link to find it can be found below. 

Find Jason Hague’s Website, Blog and Book here.

Find the video about Jack’s spelling breakthrough here.

Find the Spellers Website here.

Find our first book from We Are Brave Together here.

Brave Together is the podcast for We are Brave Together, a not-for-profit organization based in the USA. The heart of We Are Brave Together is to strengthen, encourage, inspire and validate all moms of children with disabilities and other needs in their unique journeys. 

JOIN the international community of We Are Brave Together here.

Donate to our Retreats and Respite Scholarships here.

Donate to keep this podcast going here.

Can’t get enough of the Brave Together Podcast?

Follow our Instagram Page @wearebravetogether or on Facebook.

Feel free to contact Jessica Patay via email: jpatay@wearebravetogether.org

If you have any topic requests or if you would like to share a story, leave us a message her

Brave Together Parenting is the podcast for We are Brave Together, a not-for-profit organization based in the USA. The heart of We Are Brave Together is to strengthen, encourage, inspire and validate all moms of children with disabilities and other needs in their unique journeys.

JOIN the international community of We Are Brave Together here.

Donate to our Retreats and Respite Scholarships here.

Donate to keep this podcast going here. Can’t get enough of the Brave Together Podcast?

Follow us on Instagram or on Facebook.

Feel free to contact Jessica Patay via email: jpatay@wearebravetogether.org

If you have any topic requests or if you would like to share a story, leave us a message here.

Please leave a review and rating today! We thank you in advance!

Disclaimer