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Leah Darrow, renowned public speaker and mindset coach, joins Emily Whiting on the Empowered by Hope podcast to share her inspiring journey from faith-based public speaking to impactful mindset coaching. As mothers with children facing complex medical challenges, Leah and I connect deeply over our shared experiences in balancing personal passions with the demands of family life. Through her programs like Power Made Perfect and Motivated Mompreneur, Leah sheds light on how a Christ-centered approach can empower individuals to thrive and overcome life's obstacles.

Leah opens up about the crucial role mindset training played during her time in the NICU, both for herself and her son. Drawing from a decade of personal development and unwavering faith, she demonstrates how mindset practices can become second nature in times of crisis.

Mindset Practices:

• Let go of what you cannot control - write down what you can control and focus on that
• Your energy and your words matter - choose words of hope
• Do not try to go back to the life you had before
• Practice forgiveness and radical mercy, for yourself and others

Her story is a testament to resilience and the transformative power of focusing on what we can control, offering guidance to anyone grappling with intense emotional and physical challenges.

This episode emphasizes the strength found in community support, reminding us that by coming together, we can navigate life's challenges with grace and hope. Join us as we encourage each other to extend mercy to ourselves and others, fostering resilience and embracing change to build a brighter future.

Leah Darrow is a mindset coach, speaker, and mom of seven who helps women transform their lives through personal growth and faith. As the host of The Leah Darrow Podcast and creator of Power Made Perfect, Leah empowers women to live intentionally and unlock their God-given potential. Connect with her on Instagram @leah.darrow or at leahdarrow.com.

We kindly ask that you share this podcast with other families who might benefit from our insights and support. Additionally, please consider leaving a review on your preferred podcast platform. Our goal is to reach as many families as possible who are navigating this challenging journey, so they can find our support circle and access the assistance they rightfully deserve. No one should walk this journey alone.

To get more personal support, connect with us directly at:
https://parentempowermentnetwork.org

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Join us for an exploration of pediatric feeding challenges as we sit down with Jaclyn Pederson, the dynamic CEO of Feeding Matters. Through Jaclyn's personal journey and professional insights, we uncover the critical, yet often sidelined, issue of pediatric feeding disorders. In a world where validation for these struggles was once elusive, Feeding Matters has championed the recognition of pediatric feeding disorder as a standalone diagnosis, bringing a sense of acknowledgment and relief to countless families.

This episode is a treasure trove for parents and caregivers seeking to understand the intricacies of pediatric feeding disorders. We highlight the subtle signs and symptoms that may suggest a feeding issue, and the pivotal role of parental intuition in navigating these challenges. As Jaclyn shares, finding knowledgeable care can be daunting in this emerging field, but she offers encouragement and resources that empower parents to become strong advocates for their children. Feeding Matters equips families with tools to effectively communicate with healthcare providers, ensuring that they are heard and understood.

The conversation doesn't stop at identifying the problem. We delve into the empowering work Feeding Matters does to support families, from their comprehensive online resources to the Power of Two coaching program. This episode promises insights and support that can make a significant difference in the lives of children and families touched by feeding disorders.

Resources:
FeedingMatters.org
Facebook
Instagram

Jaclyn Pederson, MHI

A system thinker and positive team builder, she uses transformational leadership principles to develop energized and efficient workgroups that influence significant organizational and systemic change for all affected by pediatric feeding disorder –such as the development of the expanded PFD Alliance. Jaclyn also manages Feeding Matters’ strategic partnerships with numerous professional associations including American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA), American Society of Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition, and the North American Society for Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition (NASPGHAN).

We kindly ask that you share this podcast with other families who might benefit from our insights and support. Additionally, please consider leaving a review on your preferred podcast platform. Our goal is to reach as many families as possible who are navigating this challenging journey, so they can find our support circle and access the assistance they rightfully deserve. No one should walk this journey alone.

To get more personal support, connect with us directly at:
https://parentempowermentnetwork.org

Facebook: Parent Empowerment Network
Instagram: ParentEmpowermentNetwork
Join the Parent Empowerment Network Community of Hope
Get your copy of She is Charlotte: A Mother’s Physical, Emotional, and Spiritual Journey with Her Child with Medical Complexities by Emily K Whiting on Amazon

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Step into the empowering world of healthcare advocacy with us as we welcome the inspiring Melissa Paige, Co-CEO of the Healthcare Advocate Summit. A recognized expert in patient access programs and navigation, Melissa combines her extensive medical knowledge, diverse pharmaceutical expertise, and leadership skills to drive process improvement and redesign workflows that enhance efficiencies in healthcare. Her unwavering passion for the well-being of patients fuels her relentless pursuit of breaking down access barriers and advocating for the highest quality care.

In this episode, Melissa shares her extraordinary journey as a patient advocate and entrepreneur, offering unique insights from her career. As an outspoken advocate, licensed pharmacy technician, and educator, Melissa has dedicated her life to making healthcare more accessible and compassionate. She applies the "Know, Think, Feel, Do" strategy to every endeavor, creating remarkable and meaningful experiences for patients, caregivers, and industry professionals alike.

Together, we explore the intricate landscape of accessing medication for rare diseases, drawing from Melissa's personal experiences as the eldest sibling of a brother with Duchenne muscular dystrophy. Melissa sheds light on practical strategies for overcoming obstacles in the healthcare system, including the critical role of financial counselors, pharmacy technicians, and advocacy organizations.

As a co-host of the Healthcare Advocate Summit, an annual conference For Advocates, By Advocates®, Melissa highlights the importance of collaboration between pharmaceutical companies, advocacy groups, and patients in addressing the unique challenges faced by those with orphan rare diseases. Through engaging discussions, we underscore the power of asking "why not" to push boundaries and inspire persistent advocacy, ensuring no one feels isolated or overwhelmed in their healthcare journey.

Join us in this vital conversation that champions hope, compassion, and collaboration in the fight for better healthcare outcomes.

Connect with Melissa Paige:
LinkedIn
Healthcare Advocate Summit
National Association of Medication Access & Patient Advocacy

We kindly ask that you share this podcast with other families who might benefit from our insights and support. Additionally, please consider leaving a review on your preferred podcast platform. Our goal is to reach as many families as possible who are navigating this challenging journey, so they can find our support circle and access the assistance they rightfully deserve. No one should walk this journey alone.

To get more personal support, connect with us directly at:
https://parentempowermentnetwork.org

Facebook: Parent Empowerment Network
Instagram: ParentEmpowermentNetwork
Join the Parent Empowerment Network Community of Hope
Get your copy of She is Charlotte: A Mother’s Physical, Emotional, and Spiritual Journey with Her Child with Medical Complexities by Emily K Whiting on Amazon

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Today's guest is Carleigh Joseph-Olivas, a licensed perinatal social worker, full spectrum doula, maternal mental health therapist, and parenting coach. Her passion for supporting women and families through the profound transformations of pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum period makes her the perfect expert to guide us through today's topic.

This two part episode focuses on the emotional journey of pregnancy, delivery,and postpartum, particularly when faced with medical complexities. Emily and Carleigh explore the grief that often arises when childbirth does not go as planned while emphasizing the importance of trusting oneself and fostering community support for parents.

Part 1:
• Understanding the grief associated with unplanned childbirth experiences
• The importance of nurturing mothers alongside their newborns

Part 2 (start at 31 minute mark):
• Rebuilding trust following negative medical experiences
• Techniques for parents to express and process emotions
• Encouraging community support and reaching out for help
• Reclaiming one's inner voice as a tool for navigating parenting challenges
• The role of parents as fierce advocates for their children

About Carleigh Jospeh-Olivas
As owner and founder of Nurtured Roots Doula and Family Services, Carleigh has established a practice that answers the question that inspires her work, ‘Everyone wants to hold the baby. Who holds the mother?” Her previous work in providing supportive counseling and connection to resources for parents of children with medical complexities impacts the scope of her dedicated service to families beyond the labor room. With a deep commitment to ‘restoring the village’, Carleigh is determined to build a supportive network that nurtures the well-being of mothers, strengthens family bonds, and fosters a healthy start for infants and children. By addressing the emotional, mental, and social needs of parents, she aims to create a safe and empowering environment where families can thrive together.

A future midwife and fierce advocate for maternal health initiatives, Carleigh envisions a world where birthing and parenting is an empowering and deeply connected experience. Through her work, Carleigh is dedicated to educating, supporting, and addressing disparities in maternal care while honoring the emotional and spiritual bonds between mothers and their children.

Instagram: Nurturedrootshouston

We kindly ask that you share this podcast with other families who might benefit from our insights and support. Additionally, please consider leaving a review on your preferred podcast platform. Our goal is to reach as many families as possible who are navigating this challenging journey, so they can find our support circle and access the assistance they rightfully deserve. No one should walk this journey alone.

To get more personal support, connect with us directly at:
https://parentempowermentnetwork.org

Facebook: Parent Empowerment Network
Instagram: ParentEmpowermentNetwork
Join the Parent Empowerment Network Community of Hope
Get your copy of She is Charlotte: A Mother’s Physical, Emotional, and Spiritual Journey with Her Child with Medical Complexities by Emily K Whiting on Amazon

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What if a simple bark could bring a little holiday miracle into your life—alerting you to an impending health crisis faster than any device? In this special holiday episode of Empowered by Hope, we’re spreading the spirit of giving and hope as we explore the incredible work of Medical Mutts Service Dogs with Liz Boskovich, Director of Development. Discover how shelter dogs, once overlooked, are transformed into life-saving companions, delivering comfort, safety, and joy to families in need—just in time for the season of miracles.

We share the heartwarming story of Patch, a once-lost pup who found his purpose with a young boy named Nick, becoming not only his life-saving companion but also a treasured part of the family’s holiday memories. From detecting seizures to managing PTSD, depression, and diabetes, these remarkable dogs offer life-changing support to individuals facing complex medical needs.

Together, we unwrap the details of the application process, costs, and resources like fundraising and grants, ensuring that hope remains accessible to families everywhere. This season reminds us of the power of connection, resilience, and second chances—whether for a shelter dog or a family seeking support.

Tune in for a heartwarming message of hope, resilience, and community, and remember: miracles come in all shapes, sizes, and sometimes even with wagging tails. Don’t forget to share your own stories with us as we continue building a supportive community together.

Learn more at https://www.medicalmutts.org/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MedicalMutts
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/medicalmuttsservicedogs/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@medicalmutts

We kindly ask that you share this podcast with other families who might benefit from our insights and support. Additionally, please consider leaving a review on your preferred podcast platform. Our goal is to reach as many families as possible who are navigating this challenging journey, so they can find our support circle and access the assistance they rightfully deserve. No one should walk this journey alone.

To get more personal support, connect with us directly at:
https://parentempowermentnetwork.org

Facebook: Parent Empowerment Network
Instagram: ParentEmpowermentNetwork
Join the Parent Empowerment Network Community of Hope
Get your copy of She is Charlotte: A Mother’s Physical, Emotional, and Spiritual Journey with Her Child with Medical Complexities by Emily K Whiting on Amazon

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Discover the journey behind the rebranding of our organization to the Parent Empowerment Network, where our mission to uplift caregivers of children with complex medical needs remains steadfast. In this episode, we reveal the thoughtful process of selecting a new name that truly reflects our dedication to supporting those in the parent role. Uncover the significance of our new logo, a beacon of empowerment and hope with sun rays symbolizing new beginnings. We also invite you to explore our freshly launched website, parentempowermentnetwork.org, a hub for connection and community, where you can join us in celebrating this exciting milestone.

Emily and Ashlyn share insights on navigating the challenges of parenting during tough times, emphasizing that no caregiver should feel isolated in their journey. They assure you of your capability and readiness to tackle the demanding tasks ahead for your children's well-being. With a warm invitation to subscribe and share your personal experiences, they aim to build a supportive network that thrives on shared wisdom and encouragement. Spread the message to others who might find solace in knowing they're not alone, especially when hope seems distant. Let's walk this path of resilience and solidarity together.

We kindly ask that you share this podcast with other families who might benefit from our insights and support. Additionally, please consider leaving a review on your preferred podcast platform. Our goal is to reach as many families as possible who are navigating this challenging journey, so they can find our support circle and access the assistance they rightfully deserve. No one should walk this journey alone.

To get more personal support, connect with us directly at:
https://parentempowermentnetwork.org

Facebook: Parent Empowerment Network
Instagram: ParentEmpowermentNetwork
Join the Parent Empowerment Network Community of Hope
Get your copy of She is Charlotte: A Mother’s Physical, Emotional, and Spiritual Journey with Her Child with Medical Complexities by Emily K Whiting on Amazon

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The ceaseless demands of caregiving could be captured in the powerful metaphor of "death by a thousand paper cuts." Join us as we open up about the raw emotions and daily challenges faced during National Family Caregiver Appreciation Month. Ashlyn and Emily share their deeply personal stories, revealing the overwhelming cycle that comes with managing children’s return to school while juggling relentless caregiving tasks. Even amidst the chaos, there's a shared understanding of the necessity to find calm and peace, and we explore how acknowledging these struggles is crucial in supporting each other.

Imagine dealing with a child’s persistent asthma symptoms on top of already complex medical needs. In our heartfelt discussion, we touch on Charlotte's story, shedding light on how such health challenges ripple through family life. The strain of missed school days, the emotional toll on parents, and the constant fear of falling behind are more than minor issues—they’re daily battles. We reflect on how these health issues affect not just the child but every corner of family life, urging both understanding and a positive outlook amidst the stress.

Finally, we emphasize the importance of a robust support network, introducing the Parent Empowerment Network as a lifeline for those feeling overwhelmed. This community resource offers a place for parents to connect, share their stories, and find strength among like-minded individuals. We invite listeners to engage with this compassionate community, whether through social media or the foundation’s website, nurturing a space where shared experiences spark empowerment and hope. Join us in this episode as we offer a beacon of support, reminding caregivers everywhere that they are not alone.

We kindly ask that you share this podcast with other families who might benefit from our insights and support. Additionally, please consider leaving a review on your preferred podcast platform. Our goal is to reach as many families as possible who are navigating this challenging journey, so they can find our support circle and access the assistance they rightfully deserve. No one should walk this journey alone.

To get more personal support, connect with us directly at:
https://parentempowermentnetwork.org

Facebook: Parent Empowerment Network
Instagram: ParentEmpowermentNetwork
Join the Parent Empowerment Network Community of Hope
Get your copy of She is Charlotte: A Mother’s Physical, Emotional, and Spiritual Journey with Her Child with Medical Complexities by Emily K Whiting on Amazon

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Jamie Olson, publisher of "Uniquely You Magazine," joins us to share her transformative journey from isolation to empowerment. Her story begins with her raising her 12-year-old son with autism, epilepsy, and nonverbal communication, and her relentless quest to find community and resources. Dive into how her involvement with Purposeful Living Inc. not only healed her but also inspired her to create a lifeline for other parents through her magazine.

As COVID turned the world upside down, Jamie saw a divine opportunity to launch a special needs magazine, drawing from her experiences and a lack of existing resources. "Uniquely You Magazine" became a beacon of hope for families with special needs children, initially in Indiana and now expanding to Ohio and Michigan. Jamie shares how this free monthly resource connects over 30,000 families with vital information. Hear about the magazine's mission to celebrate the stories and milestones of individuals with disabilities and its powerful community impact.

We also explore the profound healing that comes from sharing personal stories, especially for those newly navigating the complex world of medical diagnoses. Jamie emphasizes the necessity of building support circles, offering practical advice and resources like "The Surrender Experiment" by Michael Singer. She passionately underscores the strength found in vulnerability and community connection, encouraging listeners to reach out if they need support. Together, we remind everyone that they are not alone on this journey, reinforcing the power of community, empathy, and shared experiences.

"At Uniquely You Magazine, we believe in the transformative power of storytelling. Sharing personal experiences not only fosters connection but also empowers individuals and families to navigate their unique journeys with confidence and resilience.

Join us in supporting this vital publication and experience the profound impact of sharing your story. Explore our archive of past issues, connect with fellow community members, and discover invaluable resources:"

Indiana: https://linktr.ee/uniquelyyouindiana

Michigan: https://linktr.ee/uniquelyyoumichigan

We kindly ask that you share this podcast with other families who might benefit from our insights and support. Additionally, please consider leaving a review on your preferred podcast platform. Our goal is to reach as many families as possible who are navigating this challenging journey, so they can find our support circle and access the assistance they rightfully deserve. No one should walk this journey alone.

To get more personal support, connect with us directly at:
https://parentempowermentnetwork.org

Facebook: Parent Empowerment Network
Instagram: ParentEmpowermentNetwork
Join the Parent Empowerment Network Community of Hope
Get your copy of She is Charlotte: A Mother’s Physical, Emotional, and Spiritual Journey with Her Child with Medical Complexities by Emily K Whiting on Amazon