In this episode, I sit down with Todd Turner, the inspiring founder of Team GUTS—a nonprofit transforming lives through fitness and sports programs for individuals with special needs. Todd opens up about his family’s journey raising his incredible daughter, who has both Down syndrome and autism. He shares heartfelt stories of challenges, triumphs, and the lessons learned along the way. From the impact of early intervention and advocacy to the life-changing power of fitness and community, this conversation is packed with insights, hope, and inspiration.

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What would you do if you faced profound loss while raising a child with special needs—could you find grit and grace to move forward?

In this episode, I sit down with Jess Ronne—an author, podcaster, nonprofit executive, and passionate advocate for families of children with special needs—to explore this question and more as she shares about her family’s incredible journey. Jess opens up about raising her son, Lucas, who has profound autism, and navigating the emotional and logistical challenges of early childhood, including the heartbreaking loss of her first husband, Lucas’s father. She reflects on finding love again, expanding her family, and now transitioning Lucas to supported housing as an adult, all while balancing caregiving with self-care. Jess also discusses her new book, Caregiving with Grit and Grace, and the creation of The Lucas Project, a nonprofit providing vital resources and respite for caregivers. This heartfelt conversation highlights the power of resilience, community, and love.

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In this episode, Lee Ackerman shares his honest experience as the sibling of his sister Gretchen, who has developmental disabilities. He reflects on growing up together and his role now as her lifelong guardian.  Lee also offers valuable insights into planning for the future and supporting families when caregivers are no longer there as the executive of an advocacy, planning, and guardianship nonprofit. Join us for a candid conversation about family, responsibility, and navigating the complexities of guardianship.

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In this episode, Lauren Christilaw shares her experience as a mother to her young son, Henry, who has autism. She reflects on the unique challenges of welcoming a new baby during the pandemic while uncovering developmental delays and then advocating for evaluation, diagnosis, and the necessary services. She also shares some of her experience navigating the schools and the importance of blended classrooms, data-driven results, and documented goals in IEPs to secure the right educational environment for her son. Join us for an empowering conversation about the complexities of parenting a child with special needs and the strength that comes from standing up for our loved ones.

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Disney vacations have become a childhood rite of passage, but for families with children who have special needs, it can feel out of reach. Enter Christa Andrews from Practically Perfect Vacations, a Certified Autism Travel Professional and a specialist with Disney and Universal resorts. In this episode, she shares how she helps families plan the vacations they’ve dreamed of. Her certification equips her to support individuals on the autism spectrum, ensuring they have a magical and stress-free experience. Tune in to learn how to make your next family getaway possible!

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On this episode of Let’s Plant Houses, I sit down with Mireya Martinez, a single mother who has navigated life’s challenges with grace, all while raising her two children—one of whom, Bianca, has autism. Mireya shares her story about how she turned her love and dedication into a powerful force, creating a community of support through her nonprofit, Just 4 Me. With the motto, “No young adult with special needs or disability is left behind,” Mireya’s mission is to ensure that every individual finds a place to belong. She opens up about building a space where friendships are forged, social skills are developed, and lives are transformed. Tune in for a conversation about creating community, love, and purpose.

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In this episode of Let’s Plant Houses, Kim Cascardo opens up about her son Enzo’s journey through significant medical challenges since infancy. Although Enzo remains without a formal diagnosis, his symptoms closely resemble Leigh Syndrome. Kim shares her own wisdom and how her family has come together to support Enzo through his ongoing health battles. Tune in for a powerful conversation about love, strength, and hope in the face of uncertainty.

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David Buckley joined us to talk about his son Jack’s diagnosis of Down syndrome and the whole new world it opened up for their entire family. Not only are they creating a better life for Jack, but also for others through their involvement with some amazing organizations like the Miracle League, Gigi’s Playhouse, and Angel’s Place to name a few. Come listen to our last episode of the season.

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