Mothers of Misfits

The M.O.M. Team celebrates reaching 100 episodes of the Mothers of Misfits podcast and reminisces about their journey. You don't want to miss this final send off from Emily! ► Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/a1JH_04XSbI ► Learn more about this episode: https://www.mothersofmisfits.com/blog/show-finale-celebrating-100-episodes-emily-melious-cameron-suorsa-olivia-whiteman ► Discover episodes you missed or want to re-listen to using our search/filter tool: https://mothersofmisfits.com If you have found our show meaningful to your life, please consider... ► Rating & Reviewing us on your favorite podcast listening apps (Apple/Spotify/etc.) https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/mothers-of-misfits/id1503184614 ► Sharing this podcast with a friend! ► Connecting with us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/emilymelious https://www.linkedin.com/in/cameronsuorsa https://www.linkedin.com/in/olivia-whiteman

Empathy Consultant, Liesel Mindrebo Mertes, talks candidly about the process of grieving the death of a child. She also shares how we - as colleagues, friends, family members, and neighbors - can support those in our community who are suffering loss. ► Learn more about this episode: https://www.mothersofmisfits.com/blog/100-dealing-with-the-loss-of-a-child-liesel-mindrebo-mertes ► Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/PNSXcxgJ0nc ► Join our weekly Episode Insider newsletter: https://mothersofmisfits.com ► Subscribe & leave a review on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/mothers-of-misfits/id1503184614

Debi Lewis spent years trying to get an accurate diagnosis for her daughter - something other than "failure to thrive." She shares the challenges of navigating a broken medical system and the journey her family went through to finally get answers. ► Learn more about this episode: https://www.mothersofmisfits.com/blog/99-overcoming-a-failure-to-thrive-diagnosis-debi-lewis ► Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/jvG_hL2DPTo ► Join our weekly Episode Insider newsletter: https://mothersofmisfits.com ► Subscribe & leave a review on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/mothers-of-misfits/id1503184614

Emily and Megan talk about how to stop the power struggles and explosions in our homes and, instead, positively channel the energy of our strong-willed and highly sensitive kids. ► Learn more about this episode: https://www.mothersofmisfits.com/blog/98-parenting-a-strong-willed-child-megan-barella ► Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/agva5X6_Z4g ► Join our weekly Episode Insider newsletter: https://mothersofmisfits.com ► Subscribe & leave a review on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/mothers-of-misfits/id1503184614

Jill Laudati is the co-author of Itchy Brain and a Speech Language Pathologist. She shares the life lessons she's gained by supporting her husband and two boys, all of whom have ADHD.  ► Learn more about this episode: https://www.mothersofmisfits.com/blog/97-a-positive-outlook-on-adhd-jill-laudati ► Watch this episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCGwia7zwl5U5ZKOJId0tsSw?sub_confirmation=1 ► Join our weekly Episode Insider newsletter: https://mothersofmisfits.com ► Subscribe & leave a review on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/mothers-of-misfits/id1503184614

Certified Holistic Nutritional Consultant™, Bethany Gettis, talks about common food allergies and how to find out if your child has one. ► Learn more about this episode: https://www.mothersofmisfits.com/blog/96-dealing-with-food-allergies-bethany-gettis ► Watch this episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCGwia7zwl5U5ZKOJId0tsSw?sub_confirmation=1 ► Join our weekly Episode Insider Newsletter: https://www.mothersofmisfits.com ► Subscribe & leave a review on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/mothers-of-misfits/id1503184614

Luke Gilligan was diagnosed with Bipolar 1 disorder in his first year of college. He candidly talks about approaching his parents for help, finding the right medication, and managing his diagnosis on a daily basis. ► Learn more about this episode: https://www.mothersofmisfits.com/blog/95-thriving-as-a-bipolar-college-student-luke-gilligan ► Watch this episode on YouTube ► Join our weekly Episode Insider Newsletter ► Subscribe & leave a review on Apple Podcasts

Master IEP Coach, Shelley Kenow, tells us what to expect in the IEP process and how to successfully advocate for our child's unique needs in school. ► Learn more about this episode: https://www.mothersofmisfits.com/blog/94-mastering-the-iep-process-shelley-kenow ► Watch this episode on YouTube ► Join our weekly Episode Insider Newsletter ► Subscribe & leave a review on Apple Podcasts

Having no biological children of her own, Debbie Ausburn has "collected" 7 children and 10 grandchildren. She speaks to the challenges and rewards of raising other people's kids. ► Learn more about this episode: https://www.mothersofmisfits.com/blog/93-raising-other-people-s-children-debbie-ausburn ► Watch this episode on YouTube ► Join our weekly Episode Insider Newsletter ► Subscribe & leave a review on Apple Podcasts

Susan Landers, M.D. shares her personal story of helping her daughter overcome anorexia. Listen in as Susan and Emily talk through the risk factors, warning signs, and treatments for eating disorders. ► Learn more about this episode: https://www.mothersofmisfits.com/blog/92-parenting-a-child-with-an-eating-disorder-susan-landers-m-d ► Watch this episode on YouTube ► Join our weekly Episode Insider Newsletter ► Subscribe & leave a review on Apple Podcasts

Despite the smiling faces, a family photography session is usually a chaotic, stressful scene. The pressure to capture the "perfect shot" is amplified when your child has special needs. Professional Photographer, Don Orkoskey, shares how to make a family photograph session a positive experience for everyone. ► Learn more about this episode: https://www.mothersofmisfits.com/blog/91-how-to-make-family-photos-a-positive-experience-don-orkoskey ► Watch this episode on YouTube ► Join our weekly Episode Insider Newsletter ► Subscribe & leave a review on Apple Podcasts

Kathryn Garforth, Ph. D. is an Educational Consultant specializing in Learning Disabilities, ADHD, Autism and other Low Incidence Special Needs. Diagnosed with dyslexia, dysgraphia, & dyscalculia in grade school, her journey through the educational system was not an easy one. Kathryn shares practical advice for obtaining an accurate diagnosis for kids with learning disabilities and finding the support they need. ► Learn more about this episode: https://www.mothersofmisfits.com/blog/90-parenting-a-child-with-dyslexia-dysgraphia-dyscalculia-kathryn-garforth-ph-d ► Watch this episode on YouTube ► Join our weekly Episode Insider Newsletter ► Subscribe & leave a review on Apple Podcasts

Luke Gilligan is a sophomore Entrepreneurship major at Grove City College. He candidly shares his experiences of growing up with ADHD and managing his diagnosis - including medication - in college.  ► Learn more about this episode: https://www.mothersofmisfits.com/blog/89-succeeding-in-college-with-adhd-luke-gilligan ► Watch this episode on YouTube ► Join our weekly Episode Insider Newsletter ► Subscribe & leave a review on Apple Podcasts

Dr. Alisa Minkin is a pediatrician and mother to six adult children, one of whom has a rare diagnosis. She shares her journey of getting answers for her daughter, finding support from other parents along the way, and using her life experiences to become a better pediatrician.  ► Learn more about this episode: https://www.mothersofmisfits.com/blog/88-a-pediatrician-s-perspective-on-advocating-for-misfits-dr-alisa-minkin-md ► Watch this episode on YouTube ► Join our weekly Episode Insider Newsletter ► Subscribe & leave a review on Apple Podcasts Chapters: 00:00 - Intro 00:24 - YouTube Announcement 00:41 - Alisa's Background 02:33 - Why you should join a support group 10:15 - How can parents advocate for their kids during wellness visits? 12:01 - How should families choose a pediatrician? 15:07 - How has being a mom made you a better pediatrician? 17:01 - Where to find Alisa's podcast

With a Masters in Education Leadership, Christina Forgeron has been an educator on three continents across grades 2-9 over the last 25 years. Christina and Emily talk about how to make homework time more effective (and with less tears!).  ► Learn more about this episode: https://www.mothersofmisfits.com/blog/87-how-to-make-homework-time-work-for-everyone-christina-forgeron ► Watch this episode on YouTube ► Join our weekly Episode Insider Newsletter ► Subscribe & leave a review on Apple Podcasts

Gladys Simen is a Life Coach for working moms. Listen in as she and Emily discuss simple strategies for busy, maxed-out mothers to rest and recharge.  ► Learn more about this episode: https://www.mothersofmisfits.com/blog/86-how-to-recharge-our-mom-batteries-gladys-simen ► Watch this episode on YouTube ► Join our weekly Episode Insider Newsletter ► Subscribe & leave a review on Apple Podcasts

Matt Oxenreiter is a Certified Financial Planner and the founder of Midway Financial. He has 4 adult children, one of whom has Down Syndrome. Matt and Emily discuss practical strategies that can be used to provide financial security for all children, and particularly those with special needs. ► Learn more about this episode: https://www.mothersofmisfits.com/blog/85-financial-planning-for-special-needs-matt-oxenreiter ► Watch this episode on YouTube ► Join our weekly Episode Insider Newsletter ► Subscribe & leave a review on Apple Podcasts

Danielle Boris has a bachelor's degree in tech, an MBA in entrepreneurship, and is the founder and CEO of a SaaS company. She talks about how parents can encourage girls and minorities to go wherever their dreams take them, including the tech industry. ► Learn more about this episode: https://www.mothersofmisfits.com/blog/84-girls-in-tech-danielle-boris ► Watch this episode on YouTube ► Join our weekly Episode Insider Newsletter ► Subscribe & leave a review on Apple Podcasts

Sivan Hong authors and illustrates the children's book series, The Super Fun Day Books. These inspiring books focus on neurodiverse children, who overcome their challenges with perseverance and bravery. Listen in as Sivan and Emily talk about the power of books to normalize neurodiversity.  Learn more about this episode on our website: www.mothersofmisfits.com/blog/83-normalizing-neurodiversity-sivan-hong If you haven't already, sign up for our Episode Insider's newsletter before next week's episode to be entered to win a FREE signed paperback copy of Sivan's book, George J. and the Miserable Monday!

Shaun's entire career is inspired by his own misfit story. His mom always encouraged him to embrace his uniqueness. Now, as a Youth Performance Development Professional and Entrepreneur, he helps misfit youth do the same.  Learn more about this episode on our website: www.mothersofmisfits.com, including full details about how you can participate in our SOCIAL MEDIA GIVEAWAY* of Shaun's Success Stacks! *The giveaway will close at 11:59 on Friday, Nov. 26th and we'll announce the winner on our social media platforms by Monday, Nov. 29th. No purchase necessary. Giveaway is in no way endorsed by Facebook, Instagram, or LinkedIn. Must be 18 years old or older to enter. Winners must reside in the United States or they will receive a digital copy of the Success Stacks.

Gelly Asovski is a Child and family therapist, EMDR Consultant, and Registered Play Therapy Supervisor who specializes in play therapy. She shares why play is the answer to many of the problems in our homes. Emily and Gelly also talk through simple strategies for infusing play into our everyday lives.  Learn more about this episode on our website: www.mothersofmisfits.com, including how you can download your free copy of The Five Ways You Can Keep Your Kids Entertained Without Tech.

Marty Wolner, a Healthy Anger Coach, shares practical strategies for both parents and kids to channel their anger in healthy - rather than destructive - ways.  Learn more about this episode on our BRAND NEW website: www.mothersofmisfits.com

Sara-Louise Ackrill, founder of Wired Differently, talks about the connection between executive functioning and self-esteem. She also shares personal stories of managing autism and Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria (RSD). Learn more about this episode on our BRAND NEW website: www.mothersofmisfits.com

Ever wonder what Emily was like as a kid? This is your opportunity to find out! Listen in as Emily's mom, Darla Main, tells all - including some embarrassing stories! Learn more about this episode on our BRAND NEW website: www.mothersofmisfits.com

Jenny Landgren shares her painful and difficult journey of leaving a toxic marriage with three young children. Listen in as she talks through her process of forgiving and rediscovering herself.  Learn more about this episode on our BRAND NEW website: www.mothersofmisfits.com

Katie Yakich's motto is: "Don't take life too seriously." In 2021, she and her husband decided to homeschool their two boys. In true Katie fashion, they are homeschooling in their own way, through cross-country travel and in-person learning experiences.  Learn more about this episode on our BRAND NEW website: www.mothersofmisfits.com

Jenny Landgren has faced many challenges as a mother, including navigating an abusive marriage while raising her three, young kids. Jenny and Emily talk about turning hardship into growth and, most importantly, learning to let go.  Learn more about this episode on our BRAND NEW website: www.mothersofmisfits.com

After working in schools for over 20 years in mental health and resilience, Connie talks about the importance of bringing the hurting closer, rather than pushing them away. Learn more about this episode on our BRAND NEW website: www.mothersofmisfits.com

Andre Brisson was diagnosed with ADHD, Aspergers, and Giftedness late in life. He now helps high-achieving ADHD individuals understand and celebrate their true self. Andre is the host a new podcast, The Impulsive Thinker, where he is beginning to interview high achieving ADHD entrepreneurs to help people convert their ADHD symptoms into their strengths. Learn more about this episode on our BRAND NEW website: www.mothersofmisfits.com

Brandon Fong is an entrepreneur, author, podcast host, and marketing nerd who always felt like a misfit. He shares how he capitalized on his uniqueness to be successful in life.  Learn more about this episode on our website: www.mothersofmisfits.com

Mona Delahooke, PhD is a licensed clinical psychologist with more than 30 years of experience caring for children and their families. Mona and Emily talk about reclaiming the term "misfit" and redefining what it means to be "typical." Learn more about this episode on our website: www.mothersofmisfits.com

Andy and Emily share practical ways to set our kids up for success in school and life by developing a growth mindset. Learn more about this episode on our website: www.mothersofmisfits.com

Ashley Farrar was diagnosed with ADHD soon after her daughter was diagnosed with autism. After receiving conflicting advice from doctors, Ashley talks about her decision to trust her instincts as a parent and tune into her family's unique needs. Learn more about this episode on our website: www.mothersofmisfits.com

Dayna Abraham was in shock as she sat across from the school principal and was told, "You need to find out what's wrong with your son." Soon after, Dayna discovered that her son has Sensory Processing Disorder. Listen in as Dayna shares simple strategies for empowering our kids to express their needs. Learn more about this episode on our website: www.mothersofmisfits.com

Jaime knew something was wrong with her health during her pregnancy, but couldn't figure out what. After receiving a diagnosis of celiacs disease, she turned to food as medicine. Listen in as Jaime and Emily discuss simple strategies to foster a nutritious life for the whole family. Learn more about this episode on our website: www.mothersofmisfits.com

Leeza Woodbury has been through five rounds of IEP meetings for her 5-year-old son, and has many more to come. She shares her tips, tricks, and resources for managing the process successfully. Learn more about this episode on our website: www.mothersofmisfits.com

When Jason's teenage son started complaining about pain and muscle weakness, he figured it was simply "growing pains." When Logan's symptoms worsened, however, they knew something much more serious was going on. Listen as Jason and Emily talk about managing the rare condition of Juvenile Myositis.  Learn more about this episode on our website: www.mothersofmisfits.com

Natalie's joy quickly turned to panic when she looked down at her newborn baby and realized that her hand was not fully formed. Now, several years and several surgeries later, Natalie talks about the incredible process of giving Brielle function in her left hand.  Learn more about this episode on our website: www.mothersofmisfits.com

As a foster care parent, Hannah debunks the common myths about foster care. You may be surprised what's true and what's not! Learn more about this episode on our website: www.mothersofmisfits.com

Growing up, Alex Winstanley watched his grandmother struggle with dementia. Inspired to help other kids deal with a family member's long-term illness, he wrote two children's books entitled, "My grandmother has dementia" and "My uncle has depression." Alex and Emily talk about how to support our kids - and ourselves - through these difficult experiences. Learn more about this episode on our website: www.mothersofmisfits.com

As the parent of a misfit, you're on the "frontlines" of advocating for your child. That can mean a lot of tough conversations. Lindsay Lapaquette, a mom to two kids with disabilities, shares how to pick our battles wisely and let go of the rest.  Learn more about this episode on our website: www.mothersofmisfits.com

As a military wife, Lauren found herself in Japan, overwhelmed and alone with a toddler and an infant. She speaks to the challenges of parenting in isolation and gives strategies for re-creating "the village." Learn more about this episode on our website: www.mothersofmisfits.com

Delia Perry, host of the Girls 4 Greatness Podcast, shares 5 simple strategies to ward off the confidence crisis that often plagues teenage girls.  Learn more about this episode on our website: www.mothersofmisfits.com

Certified Sleep Consultant, Melissa Doman, shares easy-to-implement and effective sleep training strategies that give everyone in your household a good night's rest.  Learn more about this episode on our website: www.mothersofmisfits.com

Audrey and her husband knew something was different about their son moments after his birth. But it took 10 years to get an accurate diagnosis. Join Audrey and Emily as they speak openly about the challenges of raising a child with a rare genetic condition. Learn more about this episode on our website: www.mothersofmisfits.com

Casey O'Roarty is a an author, speaker, and parenting coach. She speaks candidly about parenting through the teenage years, helping her daughter manage severe anxiety, and coping with her husband's cancer diagnosis.  Learn more about this episode on our website: www.mothersofmisfits.com

Kelly Bron Johnson is an Autistic and Hard of Hearing self-advocate, speaker, author, and founder of Completely Inclusive and the Autistic Entrepreneurs Network. She and Emily hold nothing back as they talk about miscarriages, adoption, autism, inclusion, mental health, and schooling. Learn more about this episode on our website: www.mothersofmisfits.com

Lola Dada-Olley's adult brother and two kids are on the autism spectrum. Lola shares how she went through parentification as a child. She draws on those difficult experiences as the "blueprint" for the mom she is today. Despite all of life's challenges, Lola faces every day with joy and resilience. Learn more about this episode on our website: www.mothersofmisfits.com

Andrew Komarow is a Certified Neurodiversity Professional and Financial Planner to those who think differently. Diagnosed with autism later in life, he shares how he's succeeded by embracing his differences. Learn more about this episode on our website: www.mothersofmisfits.com

Executive Director of the Washington Health System Foundation, Sara Schumacher, shares her personal experience with receiving the Covid vaccine, candid thoughts on vaccinating our kids, and predictions for our return to "normalcy." Learn more about this episode on our website: www.mothersofmisfits.com

Alexis Peterson is a Stanford- and Harvard-educated private tutor with over 19 years of professional tutoring experience. She scored a perfect 1600 on the SAT as a junior in high school and has amassed an extensive resume of perfect and 99th-percentile test scores since. Alexis shares tips and tricks to help your kids actually ENJOY learning and test prep: a goal that's more achievable than one might think! Learn more about this episode on our website: www.mothersofmisfits.com