Take Heart

We are excited to share Amy’s conversation with Michele Cushatt, an author, communicator, and 3-time cancer survivor. Michele's latest book, "A Faith That Will Not Fail," offers practices to strengthen faith during challenging circumstances. Amy and Michele talk about acknowledging and dealing with trauma honestly, offering hope. They also discuss the concept of lament and the practice of relinquishment. Eps. 164 : April 16, 2024 Navigating Family Trauma: Finding Hope Amidst Hardship with Michele CushattSummary: Key Moments:[9:20] Fear of letting go[18:34] Struggle to be content, envy is natural[23:08] Suffering reveals gifts[35:12] Guide children loosely, but then let go[41:20] Permission to grieve and trusting the processResources:Michele’s Website 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 @saraclimeSupport the show

 Carrie, Amy, and Sara answer listener’s questions in this episode. Questions like, “How do you make good decisions regarding your child’s health?” and “What’s the appropriate amount of information you give when answering someone’s question about your child?” We have learned some real lessons over the years through trial and error and want to share with you some practical advice from our experiences.\Eps. 163Date: April 9, 2024Key Moments:[3:45] Choosing who you speak to about the hard things[15:44] Advocating for privacy and understanding in healthcare[21:54] Ask for more time to make decisions[35:08] Life’s changes and feeling jealous of othersResources:A Blessing for the Gift of Doubt Recovery FormationEp 143: God’s Faithfulness in the Midst of Daily SufferingSara’s Wedge Boots  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 @saraclimeSupport the show

We are honored to welcome the inspiring Kelley Coleman to our podcast. Kelley shared her deeply personal journey as a parent of a child with multiple disabilities and how she ended up writing her book, "Everything No One Tells You About Parenting." Her authenticity and wisdom shine through in this interview. We discuss the lack of information parents are provided on diagnosis and how there’s not one specific place a parent can go to find the info and support they need. We talked about the crucial aspects of caregiving in navigating the healthcare system, accessing financial support, and our need for self-care that might be unconventional.Ep. 162; March 19, 2024Key Moments:[7:03] Care plan for my dependent child brings victories[15:52] State disability definitions and benefits[26:12] Getting a second opinion is freeing[39:57] Balancing rewards and guilt of parenting challenges[44:05] Going home Googling things and cryingResources:https://www.kelleycoleman.com/https://www.kelleycoleman.com/bookshttps://www.instagram.com/hellokelleycoleman/https://www.facebook.com/kelley.coleman.56https://emilypfreeman.com/next-right-thing-book/ 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 @saraclimeSupport the show

As caregivers, we are well acquainted with transitions, and very much so in regard to our children. In this collaborative, Amy, Sara, and Carrie discuss the difficulties of life transitions as parents. They talk about their personal experiences, including making medical decisions and educational changes. The challenges of balancing autonomy and outside influences, going against medical recommendations, and seeking guidance for decisions are all discussed. We hope this episode offers valuable insights and practical tips for you!Key Moments:[2:20] 4 different types of transitions[7:59] Planned our son’s birth…but have learned our lesson[11:25] We don’t use ‘never’ when it comes to health[24:34] Comparing to others make transitions harder[35:30] Balancing hope and grief Resources:https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/ace.193Hospital Stay Guide by Carrie M. Holt: Listen to Episode 140, “Hospital Stay Survival: Spiritually & Practically.” You can access the transcript with links to her guide HERE. 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 @saraclimeSupport the show

Being a parent to a child with special needs comes with its own unique set of challenges, and being misunderstood is a chief issue. As Amy, Carrie, and Sara share their personal experiences and insights, they provide valuable guidance on responding with grace and resilience when faced with misunderstandings…even though they don’t do it perfectly every time. They discuss the balance of speaking the truth and advocating for their children without being intentionally hurtful to others and not feeling the need to explain everything, instead using their child's trauma as an explanation only when necessary. Join us for a funny and truthful episode about real life. Ep. 160; February 27, 2024Key Moments:[1:35] One thing we want to set straight about a misunderstanding[4:06] People ask the most inappropriate things, even those in medicine[13:40] The tension of mishandling comments and drawing boundaries around ourselves[21:00] Trying to understand others' intentions in church and beyond [28:23] Why don’t more people understand trauma Resources:The Place We Find Ourselves PodcastThe 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 @saraclimeSupport the show

Summary: Sara opens up about the challenges of feeling misunderstood as a mom and caregiver to a son with disabilities. Her top 5 instances when she has felt misunderstood touch on assumptions about strength, the perpetual feeling of needing to do more, finding a balance between identity and the constant impact of the diagnosis, and more. We know you’ll feel seen by listening to Sara’s honesty. So, grab a cup of coffee and prepare to dive into the heartfelt truth in this episode. Key Moments:[1:54] “You’re so strong!” and “I couldn’t do what you are doing!”[7:02] Believing in God but having fear[8:05] We can be busy, never alone but not fulfilled[10:22] Life outside of our child’s diagnosisIf 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 @saraclimeSupport the show

As parents of special needs kids, we have felt the weight of being misunderstood. In this episode, Carrie shares her experience with people who have made assumptions about us or our children and how it affects us as parents. She explains three things she wishes people understood about her parenting journey and three ways to handle ourselves when we have been misunderstood. Experiencing this life can be lonely, and this episode will give you some practical ways to manage the complex feelings that come. Ep.158: February 13, 2024Key Moments:[0:52} A hospital experience I’ll never forget[5:08] Our grief is just as heavy as losing someone[8:22] Is this assumption worth addressing?[9:58] Assume the best intent, ask questions before assuming[11:25] Our reaction may not be about the offenderResources:Scriptures mentioned: Exodus 14:14; Isaiah 53No Other KingIf 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 @saraclimeSupport the show

Do you ever feel like people just don't get it? We've all had those experiences - whether it's strangers at the grocery store or even our closest friends not understanding our journey as special needs parents. Amy shares some practical things you can do to bridge the divide and navigate the challenges of being misunderstood. We don’t want to stay isolated because of other people’s lack of awareness. Amy encourages us to continue the quest for connection.Key Moments:[2:25] Comparing a difficult child to a dog?[4:39] Shifting our perspective[6:00] Let’s calm down, being a nonanxious person[8:30] Give them a glimpse into your lifeResources:A Curious Pursuit of Christ: Jamie Harper 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 @saraclimeSupport the show

Carrie welcomes her longtime friend, Erika Weise, a mother navigating the complexities of caring for a son with a trach and ventilator. Erika shares her personal insights on acceptance of this new life vs. living in denial, finding meaning in adversity, and creating a support network for families facing similar challenges. This down-to-earth discussion will inspire you with their stories of friendship and the unwavering belief that, even in the face of adversity, everything will be okay.Ep.156; January 30, 2024Key Moments:[3:17] Birth stories and diagnosis[15:51] Dealing with doctor's negative perspective[18:55] Parenting a 20-year-old vs. a child [20:00] A friend who will walk with you[22:50] Using this to help someone elseIf 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 @saraclimeSupport the show

 The Power of Perspective:  Amy, Carrie, and Sara Share Their StoriesSummary:  Amy, Carrie and Sara look back at their early years of parenting. They share the stories from the days of early diagnosis and what they thought back then…noting with humor how ridiculous it seemed back then. But looking at the early days has helped them appreciate how far they’ve come, giving them perspective. They discuss the concept of advocating for their child, the desire for control (even though they didn’t have it!) and the worry that they carried. They have found that this life really does hold grief and gratitude at the same time. Key Moments:[13:21] Not thinking through all the “what ifs”[16:16] Advocating for our child [20:54] Looking back, need to give ourselves grace[34:43 ] Grief and gratitudeResources:Holding Grief and Gratitude as a Special Needs Mom: An Interview With Dr. Lynne M. BaabIf 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 @saraclimeSupport the show

Summary: There are real differences between parenting and caregiving. Sara shares about the dichotomies of the responsibilities that we have and how those play out in our daily lives when considering traveling, hiring a babysitter and even just going to the grocery store. Noticing the differences in the roles allows us to give ourselves grace for this road we are on. Key Moments:[1:34] Parent diaper bag vs Caregiver care bag for a lifetime[2:19] Parent babysitting vs Caregiver child care accommodations[4:45] Parent to the grocery vs Caregiver grocery experience[5:43] Parent vs Caregiver Vacations with special needs children[9:14] Caregiving is tiresome and grace is neededIf 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 @saraclimeSupport the show

Do you have times when things are chaotic, and you wonder if God is even there? Looking back on her earlier parenting, Carrie discusses three things she wished she knew and fully understood as a mom to a medically fragile child: giving herself grace as she prioritized different things in life, releasing self-criticism, and living fully in the midst of life's chaos with the overarching theme of seeing God's presence in every circumstance and difficulty. Don't miss this episode.Ep.153; January 9, 2024Key Moments:[0:40] Somethings you have to experience to learn them[3:50] Balance in life is a myth[7:10] Waiting for life to be calm [9:30] Look for Him in chaosResources:Scriptures Mentioned: Job 23:8-10; Psalm 91:1-2The Bible Recap by Tara Leigh-CobbleJulian ConsultingEpisode 147: How Creativity Keeps Us Grounded & PresentIf 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 @saraclimeSupport the show

 Episode 152: January 2,2024Summary: Amy shares her top four things she wishes she could have done differently through her 31-year journey as a mom, particularly to her kids with invisible disabilities. Things like managing emergencies, acknowledging responsibility boundaries, and understanding the limitations of love are topics she touches on in this episode. Join the conversation and discover that you are a great mom as you walk your special needs journey!Key Moments:[2:45] Not everything is an emergency[4:45] Hurry is an inner condition that is fear based[7:50] Being present but not responsible[9:45] Loving my child in her wayResources:The Good and Beautiful God: James Bryant SmithIf 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 @saraclimeSupport the show

We often think of the three gifts the Wise Men gave to Jesus, but what about the intangible gifts of time, worship, and many others? Sara encourages us to consider the intangible gifts given to the Savior, and how we can offer these same ones to God and one another. This is a replay of Episode 66, which was originally aired on December 21, 2021. The original recording and transcript are available on our website HERE. Key Moments:[0:59] Matthew 2:1-12[3:19]  The intangible gifts from the wise men[5:17} What we can learn from the wise menResources:Scripture mentioned: Matthew 2:1-12If 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 @saraclimeSupport the show

In the struggles of daily life, it can be difficult to believe God, His Word, His will, and to relinquish control. In Advent, we see the example of Mary, who chose small steps of obedience and surrender while facing many obstacles. May we follow her pattern and choose belief in small ways each day. This is a replay of Episode 65, which was originally aired on December 14, 2021. The original recording and transcript are available on our website HERE. Key Moments:[0:49]    Luke 1:26-30[1:52]    An announcement that changed life’s course[4:15]   When did Mary begin to believe?[6:20]   Struggle with surrenderResources:Scripture mentioned- Luke 1:26-30, 38, 78-79If 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 @saraclimeSupport the show

Mary, Jesus’ mother, had to embrace the unknown and the unfamiliar to welcome life.  Amy shares how saying yes to the unknown can draw us into the deeper meanings of this season and our relationship with God.  This is a replay of Episode 64, which was originally aired on December 7, 2021. The original recording and transcript are available on our website HERE. Key Moments:[0:37]  Luke 2:8-19[2:17]    I can relate to pregnant Mary[3:35]    Mary kept saying yes to God[4:40}   God is with usResources:Scripture-Luke 2:8-19If 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 @saraclimeSupport the show

In this collaborative episode, Amy, Sara, and Carrie talk about their own recent experiences and vulnerabilities- feelings of worthlessness, lack of control, and fear that often accompany these calmer seasons. They talk about how to recognize and process these emotions and offer practical advice and wisdom to help listeners navigate the unsettling emotions of transitions and change. They encourage you to welcome emotional resilience by inviting God into the depths of your emotions.Key Moments:[9:30] When our work becomes our worth[13:00] We grow too fond of our suffering[21:24] I didn’t want to think about how I feel[25:38] Know your triggers[40:47] Studies show only feel deep emotions for a short timeResources:The Gifts of Imperfection by Brene Brown Building A Resilient Life by Rebekah LyonsA PDF copy of Dr. Gloria Wilcox’s Feeling Wheel by www.positivephsychologyprogram.com Resilient by Jon EldredgeIf you enjoyed the show:Have you purchased our new book, The Other Side of Special? Subscribe to our newsletter on the Take Heart Website Get 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 @carriemholtSupport the show

Finding rest as a caregiver can be just another thing on our to-do list, but it's a vital part of sustaining our long-term well-being. Host Sara Clime talks about the benefits of putting in the effort to make space for rest in our lives. Discover the 7 different types of rest and learn how to engage in restorative activities that suit your unique needs and lifestyle. From physical and mental rest to emotional and social rest, Sara offers tips and strategies to help you prioritize rest and find moments of rejuvenation.Episode 150: November 21, 2023Key Moments:[0:42 ] Rest isn’t intuitive or easy to plan but we need to practice![4:11] No isn’t a dirty word[6:14] Sensory rest[8:19] Social rest: spend time with re-fueling peopleResources: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 @saraclimeSupport the show

In this week's podcast episode, "Where Do You Find Comfort," Carrie shares the delicate balance between positive and negative emotions while exploring the need for comfort.  Carrie talks about the emotional journey of special needs parents, explains some essential truths about comfort and discusses the constant place we can go to find it. Eps. 149; November 14, 2023Key Moments: [02:33] Lessons from "Inside Out"[05:07] The Holy Spirit as the Comforter[08:11] Comfort through other believers[10:12] Identify the lies we are believing[12:19] A prayer for comfortResources:Scriptures Mentioned: John 14:16-17a,c, 18; II Corinthians 1:3-4; II Corinthians 7:6; Psalm 119:76; Ephesians 3:14-19If 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 @saraclimeSupport the show

Episode 148:: November 7, 2023  How to Be Content When Your Life Isn’t EasySummary: In this episode, Amy discusses the concept of contentment and how it can be challenging to achieve when life isn’t easy. Amy explores the impact of unmet expectations, "if only" thinking, and comparison that contribute to our discontent. She shares personal stories and offers practical steps to help you shift your perspective, find gratitude, and embrace delight in your life.Key Moments:[3:10] Three traps that lead to discontent[5:11] Endless "if onlys" suggest we're never enough[9:08] Delight doesn't fix what's broken, gives us fuel to press on[10:36] Noticing the goodResources:Is this what you expected? Lisa Qualls On Delight and Why it Matters: Shauna Niequist 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 @saraclimeSupport the show