Take Heart

Episode 175: Decmeber 5, 2024In all the talk of Christmas being wonderful, there's also a huge sense of dread for mothers to get it all done. There are so many expectations of us during this time of the year. Carrie, Amy, and Sara discuss what lessons we have learned over the years. There are some rhythms and things we cut out in December to be more present and at peace.  We want to encourage you to do the same, so listen in!Key Moments:[1:48] You don’t have to be a Pinterest mom[7:21] Kids remember you being present and not stressed[9:41] Keep things the same to minimize decision-making[16:33] Put on Christmas music?[27:07] Changes coming to our lives and the podcastResources:The Quiet Collection Shadow and Light: A Journey into Advent The Christmas Donkey song Ep. 63 Ten Tips for Thriving this Holiday Season Invisible Challenges: Navigating Advocacy and Support While Parenting Challenging Behaviors.Amy’s SubstackIf you enjoyed the show:Have you purchased our new book, The Other Side of Special? Subscribe to our newsletter on the Take Heart WebsiteGet our free resource on finding Gratitude, Peace, and HopeReview and like us on Apple Podcasts Share us with others from wherever you listen to podcastsFollow us on Instagram @takeheartspecialmomsFind Amy at www.amyjbrown.com/  or on Instagram @amyjbrown_writerFind Carrie at www.carriemholt.com or on Instagram @carriemholtFind Sara at www.saraclime.com or on Instagram @

Sara met with the author and founder of We Are Brave Together, Jessica Patay, to discuss the beautiful things that come from being in a community of women caregivers. Jessica's community provides mentoring, meaningful conversations, and an authenticity that very few outside the caregiving community can replicate. She launched the nonprofit to support mothers of children with disabilities or mental health challenges. In her book, "Becoming Brave Together," she shares real stories of caregiving mothers to encourage understanding caregivers and their families and friends. Listen in to hear the inspiration for her nonprofit and her heart for special needs caregiving women.Key Moments:[8:44] Vulnerability breeds connections among caregiving women[19:40] We hide our real emotions because of inspirational expectations.[21:29] The book gives insight for friends of caregivers, too.[24:55] We don’t want to be a burden so we avoid hard conversations.[26:23] You are not meant to do this journey alone.Resources:Home Page: https://www.wearebravetogether.org Book: Becoming Brave Together: Heroic, Extraordinary Caregiving Stories from Mothers Hidden in Plain SightSupport: Connection CirclesBite-Sized Self-Care Suggestions If you enjoyed the show:Have you purchased our new book, The Other Side of Special? Subscribe to our newsletter on the Take Heart WebsiteGet our free resource on finding Gratitude, Peace, and HopeReview and like us on Apple Podcasts Share us with others from wherever you listen to podcastsFollow us on Instagram @takeheartspecialmomsFind Amy at www.amyjbrown.com/  or on Instagram @amyjbrown_writerFind Carrie at www.carriemholt.com or on Instagram @carriemholtFind Sara at www.saraclime.com or on Instagram @saraclime

Amy, Sara, and Carrie explore the pervasive feelings of loneliness and isolation that special needs parents experience. They discuss how their past focus on efficiency led to prioritizing tasks over relationships. Now, years into their special needs parenting lives, they need intentional connection. They discuss their strategies for pushing past isolation and loneliness towards deeper friendships and finding their worth in the Lord. Join the conversation to learn how to nurture meaningful relationships and gracefully navigate the loneliness challenge.Episode 173: November 5, 2024Key Moments:[1:44] Even 18 years later, I still feel unseen[7:21] The loneliness of isolation prevents carefree time with friends[19:15] Overwhelmed exhaustion keeps me from planning things[20: 40] Being honest and continue to reach out[24:49] Have a website to send to a friend who wants to understand{28:56} Make an effort, especially to those who have been faithful to usResources:https://www.amazon.com/Show-Up-Bring-Coffee-Disabled/dp/B0CFZKZGS8 If you enjoyed the show:Have you purchased our new book, The Other Side of Special? Subscribe to our newsletter on the Take Heart WebsiteGet our free resource on finding Gratitude, Peace, and HopeReview and like us on Apple Podcasts Share us with others from wherever you listen to podcastsFollow us on Instagram @takeheartspecialmomsFind Amy at www.amyjbrown.com/  or on Instagram @amyjbrown_writerFind Carrie at www.carriemholt.com or on Instagram @carriemholtFind Sara at www.saraclime.com or on Instagram @saraclime

Carrie M. Holt sat down with Sandy Ramsey-Trayvick, author of the new book, "When Dreams Are Disrupted," to talk about Sandy’s mindset journey as she was forced to step into the role of caregiver for her child.  When a childhood illness changed the life of her son, it left her feeling helpless. In this episode, she shares what God revealed concerning her choices and how she’s been working with this new set of options God has given her. This conversation with Sandy will inspire you to choose an “un-disabled” mindset as you raise your child with disabilities or special needs and fill that role of caregiver.Ep. 172: October 15, 2024Key Moments:[1:45 ] God-given choices persist despite diagnosis[12:15] Humans struggle to believe God's unconditional love[17:12] Trustworthy friends dispel irrational fears[27:30} Parents impact children but should prioritize just being present[31:35] God handles outcomes; human understanding is limitedResources:Undisabled Lives WebsiteSandy’s CoachingWhen Dreams Are DisruptedThe Bix Six: Things Kids Need From Their Parents: Adam YoungIf you enjoyed the show:Have you purchased our new book, The Other Side of Special? Subscribe to our newsletter on the Take Heart WebsiteGet our free resource on finding Gratitude, Peace, and HopeReview and like us on Apple Podcasts Share us with others from wherever you listen to podcastsFollow us on Instagram @takeheartspecialmomsFind Amy at www.amyjbrown.com/  or on Instagram @amyjbrown_writerFind Carrie at www.carriemholt.com or on Instagram @carriemholtFind Sara at www.saraclime.com or on Instagram @saraclime

Long-term caregiving requires a mindset shift for our emotional life and our relationship with God and others. Carrie, Amy, and Sara discuss practical tips for surviving and thriving long term.  They discuss spiritual practices, practical habits to avoid burnout, and mindfulness to address the stressors and difficulties that come with caregiving. You’ll walk away with valuable tips you can begin incorporating into your life right now!Ep. 171, October 1, 2024Key Moments:[6:39 ]  Our permanent situation and loss of dreams[13:25] Where was Jesus in that moment?[21:22] Caregiving is worship[28:35] My roles and my boundaries[36:51] Accepting helpResources:Interview with Laura HernandezEpisode 157The Place We Find Ourselves Podcast: Free Therapy!The Allender Center PodcastIf you enjoyed the show:Have you purchased our new book, The Other Side of Special? Subscribe to our newsletter on the Take Heart WebsiteGet our free resource on finding Gratitude, Peace, and HopeReview and like us on Apple Podcasts Share us with others from wherever you listen to podcastsFollow us on Instagram @takeheartspecialmomsFind Amy at www.amyjbrown.com/  or on Instagram @amyjbrown_writerFind Carrie at www.carriemholt.com or on Instagram @carriemholtFind Sara at www.saraclime.com or on Instagram @saraclime

In this episode, Amy Brown interviews Megan Amrich, author of the book 'Show Up and Bring Coffee: How to Support Your Friends with Disabled Children.' They discuss practical ways to support parents of children with disabilities, including being knowledgeable but not a know-it-all, being an extra set of hands, and making events and celebrations accessible. Megan emphasizes the importance of asking your friends what they need and being open to learning about their child's diagnosis. She also encourages friends to share their big news with sensitivity and understanding.Be knowledgeable, but not a know-it-all, about your friend's child's disabilityOffer to be an extra set of hands and help with specific tasks, such as feeding tubesMake events and celebrations accessible by asking your friends what they need and providing accommodationsShare your big news with sensitivity and understanding, recognizing that your friend may be processing their grief Introduction and Welcome02:51 The Importance of Practical Support06:15 Trusting Your Friend's Knowledge10:35 Being an Extra Set of Hands17:19 Finding the One Thing That Would Benefit Your Friend20:41 Small Acts of Help Can Make a Big Difference25:18 Making Events and Celebrations Accessible36:14 Sharing Big News with Sensitivity41:33 Conclusion and Where to Find MeganMegan’s Website Rad AdvocatesMegan’s IGIf you enjoyed the show:Have you purchased our new book, The Other Side of Special? Subscribe to our newsletter on the Take Heart WebsiteGet our free resource on finding Gratitude, Peace, and HopeReview and like us on Apple Podcasts Share us with others from wherever you listen to podcastsFollow us on Instagram @takeheartspecialmomsFind Amy at www.amyjbrown.com/  or on Instagram @amyjbrown_writerFind Carrie at www.carriemholt.com or on Instagram @carriemholtFind Sara at www.saraclime.com or on Instagram @saraclime

In this episode, we sit down together to discuss joy and how we can capitalize on the moments that we have.  We talk about adjusting our expectations, addressing past trauma, and embracing the fleeting nature of life to cultivate joy in the present moment. We discuss the struggle of feeling constantly on guard and the tendency to brace oneself for negative experiences, hindering the ability to be open to moments of joy. Lots of good takeaways to help you foster joy in your life!Key Moments:[3:36] Difficulty in letting go and playing with kids[10:50] Struggling to enjoy things without them perfect[19:03] Assuming best intentions, past interactions do not dictate[27:23] Self-reflection and noticing what brings you joy[37:06] Joy in relationships, celebrating your child’s growthResources:Episode 164: Michle Cushatt Air Fryer Better MeCozy Minimalist Community House Rules The Bible Recap If you enjoyed the show:Have you purchased our new book, The Other Side of Special? Subscribe to our newsletter on the Take Heart WebsiteGet our free resource on finding Gratitude, Peace, and HopeReview and like us on Apple Podcasts Share us with others from wherever you listen to podcastsFollow us on Instagram @takeheartspecialmomsFind Amy at www.amyjbrown.com/  or on Instagram @amyjbrown_writerFind Carrie at www.carriemholt.com or on Instagram @carriemholtFind Sara at www.saraclime.com or on Instagram @saraclime

Today, Sara talks with Dr Maureen Michele, physician, life coach, and author of the book Reclaiming Life: A Guide For Parents of Chronically Ill Children. We dive deep into the essential aspects of advocacy and emotional resilience, particularly in the context of parenting chronically ill children. We discussed the "4 C's" - consciousness, curiosity, commitment, and courage - and how these principles give us as caregivers and our children the tools we need to manage our thoughts and emotions. Plus, Dr. Maureen shares helpful advice for effectively disagreeing and handling emotions during doctors or IEP appointments focusing on the need for curiosity, fascination, and grace in approaching disagreements.Key Moments:[4:38] Noticing our own thoughts[13:48] Wins and losses provide valuable growth[17:16] Approach meetings with curiosity and a list.[31:36] Caregivers have real feelings in front of our children, modeling vulnerability Resources:Website: https://maureenmichelemd.com  Instagram: @maureenmichelemd Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/maureenmichelemd   Book on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BNKXF3VQ If you enjoyed the show:Have you purchased our new book, The Other Side of Special? Subscribe to our newsletter on the Take Heart WebsiteGet our free resource on finding Gratitude, Peace, and HopeReview and like us on Apple Podcasts Share us with others from wherever you listen to podcastsFollow us on Instagram @takeheartspecialmomsFind Amy at www.amyjbrown.com/  or on Instagram @amyjbrown_writerFind Carrie at www.carriemholt.com or on Instagram @carriemholtFind Sara at www.saraclime.com or on Instagram @saraclime

There are emotional complexities and practical considerations of caring for children with disabilities or special needs during emergencies. In this episode, we discuss our conversations with our kids about emergencies, how we prepare for these inevitabilities, and how to recognize our personal needs to find emotional support during these crises. This episode will empower you to have a plan but prioritize your well-being while caring for all your children in these challenging times.Key Moments:[4:34] Censoring medical history for son, balancing information [11:49] Mom's emotions and the need to express them[18:00] Emergencies caused by behavior should be discussed after it happens[39:50] Anxious about an upcoming trip because of past trip traumas[43:25] What calms you? How to avoid a meltdownResources:Sara's Emergency Checklist: 6 Manageable Steps to Prepare Your Backup CaregiverIf you enjoyed the show:Have you purchased our new book, The Other Side of Special? Subscribe to our newsletter on the Take Heart WebsiteGet our free resource on finding Gratitude, Peace, and HopeReview and like us on Apple Podcasts Share us with others from wherever you listen to podcastsFollow us on Instagram @takeheartspecialmomsFind Amy at www.amyjbrown.com/  or on Instagram @amyjbrown_writerFind Carrie at www.carriemholt.com or on Instagram @carriemholtFind Sara at www.saraclime.com or on Instagram @saraclime

Carrie sat down with Kristin and Todd Evans to discuss their newly released book, How to Build a Thriving Marriage As You Care for Children with Disabilities. They talk about communication strategies for couples, how they manage stress, and the ongoing grief we experience as special needs parents. This episode offers practical advice and emotional support for couples facing similar challenges. Ep. 166; May 21, 2024Key Moments:[4:49] Lots of shame that we can feel as parents[11:14] Marriage struggles: we had hurt each other a lot[16:19] Deliberate moments and mindfulness relieve stress and bond each other together[24:08] Ignoring our emotions led to unhealthy coping strategies[34:42] Family/Friends offer helpful, specific things they can doResources:How To Build a Thriving Marriage As You Care For Children With DisabilitiesKristin & Todd’s WebsiteKristin & Todd’s Previous Interview on Take HeartIf you enjoyed the show:Have you purchased our new book, The Other Side of Special? Subscribe to our newsletter on the Take Heart WebsiteGet our free resource on finding Gratitude, Peace, and HopeReview and like us on Apple Podcasts Share us with others from wherever you listen to podcastsFollow us on Instagram @takeheartspecialmomsFind Amy at www.amyjbrown.com/  or on Instagram @amyjbrown_writerFind Carrie at www.carriemholt.com or on Instagram @carriemholtFind Sara at www.saraclime.com or on Instagram @saraclime