The Special Needs Mom Podcast

Send us a textIn this episode, I share my concern over the rising division within our special needs community. Recently, I've observed two sides clashing—each convinced the other is wrong. This division started with a comment made by the Secretary of Health and Human Services about autism, but what's more troubling to me is how we're responding as a community. I've seen judgment replacing empathy, and I'm left wondering how we got here.There's a lot more to explore, but for now, I want to remind you, together is the only way!Connect with Kara, host of The Special Needs Mom Podcast:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thespecialneedsmompodcast/Website: https://www.kararyska.com/Join the Community:Pathway to Peace Coaching Community is currently open for enrollment. Instantly get access to authentic community and weekly coaching! Give yourself the gift of growing alongside moms who deeply understand you and will be with you in your joys and sorrows. --------> Learn More HERE

Send us a textIn this episode, we sit in on the Rare Advocacy Exchange virtual series. Global Genes is hosting this series in an effort to empower rare disease leaders. As moderator, I facilitated a panel that focused on the challenges and rewards of leading in the rare disease space.The conversation covered the importance of community, collaboration, and using personal experiences to drive change. Panelists shared their journeys of advocacy, highlighting how moments of isolation became opportunities to connect and push for change.This episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about rare disease advocacy, offering inspiration and insights for creating meaningful impact.Episode Resources: Parenting Differently When You Expect A Shorter Life with Daniel DeFabioGlobal GenesGlobal Genes: Rare Advocacy ExchangeCure DHDDSConnect with Kara, host of The Special Needs Mom Podcast:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thespecialneedsmompodcast/Website: https://www.kararyska.com/Join the Community:Pathway to Peace Coaching Community is currently open for enrollment. Instantly get access to authentic community and weekly coaching! Give yourself the gift of growing alongside moms who deeply understand you and will be with you in your joys and sorrows. --------> Learn More HERE

Send us a textI share a personal story today about my journey with pelvic floor physical therapy, and how I've been learning to support myself in ways that match my resistance. After some humorous missteps with scheduling and a lot of self-judgment, I realized that getting the right kind of support—whether it's a coach, a friend, or even a check-in system—can make all the difference when it comes to sticking with something that feels hard.I talk about a concept I love: getting support sufficient to your resistance. We often do this for our kids, but how often do we apply it to ourselves? It's about recognizing that resistance isn't a problem, but the lack of the right kind of support is. This episode is all about finding the right tools and structures to help you get where you want to go, without judgment or guilt.Give yourself the gift of COZY:https://cozyearth.com/Up to 40% off promo code: SNMPODCASTConnect with Kara, host of The Special Needs Mom Podcast:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thespecialneedsmompodcast/Website: https://www.kararyska.com/Join the Community:Pathway to Peace Coaching Community is currently open for enrollment. Instantly get access to authentic community and weekly coaching! Give yourself the gift of growing alongside moms who deeply understand you and will be with you in your joys and sorrows. --------> Learn More HERE

Send us a textThis conversation with Callista Bowes, a therapist, mom, and certified pediatric gentle sleep coach, dives into a reality many special needs parents face—the deep isolation that exists even in a hyper-connected world.We talk about how social media can create a false sense of connection while leaving parents feeling even more alone. Callista shares her experience navigating loneliness after stepping away from her career following her daughter's Down Syndrome diagnosis, the struggle to find truly understanding spaces online, and why building in-person support can feel so hard. We also explore the emotional toll of managing constant responsibilities and the fear of judgment that keeps many parents from opening up. If you've ever felt unseen or like digital spaces don't quite meet your needs, this episode is for you.Connect with Our Guest, Callista Bowes: email: callistabowes@gmail.comwebsite: A Cherished Night of SleepGive yourself the gift of COZY:https://cozyearth.com/Up to 40% off promo code: SNMPODCASTConnect with Kara, host of The Special Needs Mom Podcast:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thespecialneedsmompodcast/Website: https://www.kararyska.com/Join the Community:Pathway to Peace Coaching Community is currently open for enrollment. Instantly get access to authentic community and weekly coaching! Give yourself the gift of growing alongside moms who deeply understand you and will be with you in your joys and sorrows. --------> Learn More HERE

Send us a textIn this episode, I'm sharing how I'm planning ahead to create a summer that actually works—for me, my family, and especially Levi.Last summer was rough, so I got intentional about doing things differently this year. I walk you through a six-step process (inspired by my landscape design days!) to create a future you're excited about—without getting stuck in the “how.”I cover:What worked, what didn't, and what's changingWhy support is key (and why I'm hiring help!)How to move forward without overwhelmResources Mentioned:Oncology and Kids (San Diego-based camp)Care.com (for finding caregivers)Episode 000: episode title hereGive yourself the gift of COZY:https://cozyearth.com/Up to 40% off promo code: SNMPODCASTConnect with Kara, host of The Special Needs Mom Podcast:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thespecialneedsmompodcast/Website: https://www.kararyska.com/Join the Community:Pathway to Peace Coaching Community is currently open for enrollment. Instantly get access to authentic community and weekly coaching! Give yourself the gift of growing alongside moms who deeply understand you and will be with you in your joys and sorrows. --------> Learn More HERE

Send us a textToday I'm chatting with my friend Laura Ishmael, special needs mom, travel advisor, and all-around travel pro. Laura shares how travel became part of her family's life, even after her daughter Sophie's rare brain malformation diagnosis. From navigating accessibility challenges to embracing flexibility, Laura's story is all about keeping dreams alive, even when the path looks different than expected.We talk about:

Send us a textThis episode is full of heart, insight, and real talk about the ever-evolving journey of special needs motherhood. I sat down with Brittney Crabtree and Tash Dillman from the Moms Talk Autism podcast to chat about grief, acceptance, and finding your people.Tash, a Portland-based mom of two, loves fitness, nature, volunteering, and tending to her MANY houseplants. Brittney, a Northern California mom of four, runs a home bakery and balances the unique needs of her two autistic children.We talk about the cycle of special needs parenting, the fine line between helping and "fixing" our kids, and why diversifying your friendship portfolio is a game-changer. If you're feeling exhausted or alone, this one's for you.Episode Resources: Marco Polo AppTSNM Pod Episodes on Grief: Episode 220: Let's Talk About LonelinessEpisode 221: The Antidote for LonelinessEpisode 223: The Trojan Horse of HappinessEpisode 225: Together Is the Only WayGet to know Moms Talk Autism:Podcast on SpotifyPodcast on Apple MusicWebsiteInstagramBrittany Crabtree InstagramTash Dillman InstagramContact: hello@momstalkautism.comGive yourself the gift of COZY:https://cozyearth.com/Up to 40% off promo code: SNMPODCASTConnect with Kara, host of The Special Needs Mom Podcast:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thespecialneedsmompodcast/Website: https://www.kararyska.com/Join the Community:Pathway to Peace Coaching Community is currently open for enrollment. Instantly get access to authentic community and weekly coaching! Give yourself the gift of growing alongside moms who deeply understand you and will be with you in your joys and sorrows. --------> Learn More HERE

Send us a textEver walked into a support group expecting connection and left feeling… not so supported? You're not alone. This episode is all about navigating support groups that don't quite meet our needs and how to find, or even create, the spaces that truly support us.I share my first (not-so-great) support group experience, the different types of people you might encounter in these spaces, and why mismatched expectations can make things feel off. But don't worry, this isn't just a gripe session—I also give you actionable steps to help you find (or build) the support you need.And if you've ever felt like there has to be a better way, you're right! Let's explore how to create meaningful, truly supportive communities together.Resources Mentioned:

Send us a textWelcome to our Community Huddle! This month, we're talking about receiving—why it's hard, why it matters, and how we can get better at it.In this episode, we explore:The struggle of asking for help.Why receiving is a gift to both giver and receiver.Practical ways to ask for and accept support.Learning to give yourself grace.And of course, we wrap up with our Community Cheer—because together is the only way.Give yourself the gift of COZY:https://cozyearth.com/Up to 40% off promo code: SNMPODCASTConnect with Kara, host of The Special Needs Mom Podcast:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thespecialneedsmompodcast/Website: https://www.kararyska.com/Join the Community:Pathway to Peace Coaching Community is currently open for enrollment. Instantly get access to authentic community and weekly coaching! Give yourself the gift of growing alongside moms who deeply understand you and will be with you in your joys and sorrows. --------> Learn More HERE

Send us a textLast night, as I was putting Levi to bed—exhausted and overwhelmed—I realized I had a choice: shrink back or dig deep.I take you back to my water polo days and a phrase my coach drilled into us—"Dig Deep." It's stuck with me ever since, and last night, it surfaced again as a reminder that even in the toughest moments, we can choose to keep going.I hope this message encourages you to dig deep when things feel hard.Give yourself the gift of COZY:https://cozyearth.com/Up to 40% off promo code: SNMPODCASTConnect with Kara, host of The Special Needs Mom Podcast:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thespecialneedsmompodcast/Website: https://www.kararyska.com/Join the Community:Pathway to Peace Coaching Community is currently open for enrollment. Instantly get access to authentic community and weekly coaching! Give yourself the gift of growing alongside moms who deeply understand you and will be with you in your joys and sorrows. --------> Learn More HERE

Send us a textToday I'm wrapping up our two-part series on receiving. Inspired by my own journey and the experiences of the moms I work with, I take you through a personal story of navigating the world of financial support for my son, Levi.I share how, after years of advocacy, we finally received the help we needed—only to find myself struggling with an unexpected wave of guilt and disbelief when even more support came our way. I dive into the concept of our "inner thermostat" for receiving, as explained in The Big Leap by Gay Hendricks, and how our subconscious beliefs can keep us stuck in feeling undersupported.We also take a closer look at common thought patterns that may be holding you back from accepting help, like feeling obligated to reciprocate or believing it's too much effort to ask. Plus, I offer a few mindset shifts that can help you break free and receive the support you deserve.If you've ever felt conflicted about getting the help you need, this episode is for you.Give yourself the gift of COZY:https://cozyearth.com/Up to 40% off promo code: SNMPODCASTConnect with Kara, host of The Special Needs Mom Podcast:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thespecialneedsmompodcast/Website: https://www.kararyska.com/Join the Community:Pathway to Peace Coaching Community is currently open for enrollment. Instantly get access to authentic community and weekly coaching! Give yourself the gift of growing alongside moms who deeply understand you and will be with you in your joys and sorrows. --------> Learn More HERE

Send us a textToday, we're diving into a topic that so many of us struggle with—receiving help. This conversation was sparked by a comment from our community about the guilt of accepting support, even when we know we need it.In this episode, I explore:✨ Why we resist help, even when it's available.✨ The hidden beliefs that keep us stuck in overdoing.✨ Two big "potholes" in our thinking that block us from receiving.✨ Simple mindset shifts to make accepting help easier.If you've ever thought, I should be able to do more or other people need help more than I do, this episode is for you! We'll unpack these thoughts and gently rework them so you can open up to the support you truly deserve.Give yourself the gift of COZY:https://cozyearth.com/Up to 40% off promo code: SNMPODCASTConnect with Kara, host of The Special Needs Mom Podcast:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thespecialneedsmompodcast/Website: https://www.kararyska.com/Join the Community:Pathway to Peace Coaching Community is currently open for enrollment. Instantly get access to authentic community and weekly coaching! Give yourself the gift of growing alongside moms who deeply understand you and will be with you in your joys and sorrows. --------> Learn More HERE

Send us a textI'm sharing a personal update about a recent unexpected hospitalization with my son Levi, and how I handle “hospital mode” when life throws a curveball. I also dive into how we try to outrun anxiety with our to-do lists—and why that just doesn't work.I talk about how to recognize when your nervous system is out of whack, why your to-do list might actually be adding to your stress, and simple ways to slow down, reset, and feel more grounded.Here's another related episode: Anxiety and Your Never Ending To-Do List Give yourself the gift of COZY:https://cozyearth.com/Up to 40% off promo code: SNMPODCASTConnect with Kara, host of The Special Needs Mom Podcast:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thespecialneedsmompodcast/Website: https://www.kararyska.com/Join the Community:Pathway to Peace Coaching Community is currently open for enrollment. Instantly get access to authentic community and weekly coaching! Give yourself the gift of growing alongside moms who deeply understand you and will be with you in your joys and sorrows. --------> Learn More HERE

Send us a textGive yourself the gift of COZY:https://cozyearth.com/Up to 40% off promo code: SNMPODCASTConnect with Kara, host of The Special Needs Mom Podcast:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thespecialneedsmompodcast/Website: https://www.kararyska.com/Join the Community:Pathway to Peace Coaching Community is currently open for enrollment. Instantly get access to authentic community and weekly coaching! Give yourself the gift of growing alongside moms who deeply understand you and will be with you in your joys and sorrows. --------> Contact Me

Send us a textThis episode is all about catching up! I'm sharing highlights from our winter break, including a big advocacy win for Levi, and reflecting on the mix of joy and challenges that come with parenting a child with disabilities.I also dive into a theme I've been embracing: being of service. It's helped me find purpose and peace, and I hope it might inspire you too.Lastly, I'm asking for your help to support special needs moms displaced by the recent LA fires. If you know someone in need, please reach out.Give yourself the gift of COZY:https://cozyearth.com/Up to 40% off promo code: SNMPODCASTConnect with Kara, host of The Special Needs Mom Podcast:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thespecialneedsmompodcast/Website: https://www.kararyska.com/Join the Community:Pathway to Peace Coaching Community is currently open for enrollment. Instantly get access to authentic community and weekly coaching! Give yourself the gift of growing alongside moms who deeply understand you and will be with you in your joys and sorrows. --------> Contact Me

Send us a textIn this heartfelt episode, I sit down with Kari A. Baker, an inspiring mom, author, and advocate for families navigating life with invisible neurological differences. Kari shares her journey of becoming a "KIND mom" after her son Brady was diagnosed with autism at age three. Together, we dive into topics like letting go of the "fixing" mindset, embracing the unexpected joys of parenting, and finding hope and purpose in life's challenges.Kari talks about the evolution of her life—transitioning from a career in financial services to founding KIND Families, a supportive community for families like hers. She also opens up about her struggles with control, the lessons she's learned from her faith, and the incredible ways her son has surprised and inspired her.Whether you're a mom at the start of your special needs journey or further along, Kari's story will remind you that even in the hard moments, there's room for gratitude, growth, and kindness.Connect with Kari:Order Kari's Book:HardbackEbook on AmazonConnect with Kari Online:Website: kindfamilies.com | kariabaker.comSocial Media: @kariabaker on Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedInPodcast: The KIND Families Podcast on Apple Podcasts and SpotifyGive yourself the gift of COZY:https://cozyearth.com/Up to 40% off promo code: SNMPODCASTConnect with Kara, host of The Special Needs Mom Podcast:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thespecialneedsmompodcast/Website: https://www.kararyska.com/Join the Community:Pathway to Peace Coaching Community is currently open for enrollment. Instantly get access to authentic community and weekly coaching! Give yourself the gift of growing alongside moms who deeply understand you and will be with you in your joys and sorrows. --------> Contact Me

Send us a textAs 2024 wraps up, I'm reflecting on my son's incredible progress and the motto that's guided me: “Together is the only way.” In this quick episode, I share the story behind it and why it means so much.Looking for more connection in 2025? Check out:Pathway to Peace Coaching Community – A paid, supportive space for real connection.Community Huddles – Free, fun calls to meet and grow with others.Details are at kararyska.com. Together really is the only way—let's make 2025 amazing!Give yourself the gift of COZY:https://cozyearth.com/Up to 40% off promo code: SNMPODCASTConnect with Kara, host of The Special Needs Mom Podcast:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thespecialneedsmompodcast/Website: https://www.kararyska.com/Join the Community:Pathway to Peace Coaching Community is currently open for enrollment. Instantly get access to authentic community and weekly coaching! Give yourself the gift of growing alongside moms who deeply understand you and will be with you in your joys and sorrows. --------> Contact Me

Send us a textIn this special holiday community huddle, we dive into:

Send us a textIn this episode, I get real about something we've all felt at one point: that temptation to sink into self-pity when things get hard (especially during the holiday season!). After a year filled with appealing and advocating for my son, I share a personal story about a recent hearing where things did not go as planned — and how I nearly let it pull me into the “poor me” mindset.But here's the twist: I didn't stay there. Instead, I made a small shift toward self-compassion — and it made all the difference. In this episode, we explore:The difference between self-pity and self-compassion

Send us a textIn this episode, I sit down with Kim Guche, a hypnotist, NLP practitioner, and pediatric speech-language pathologist with a passion for helping families create harmony and peace at home. As a mom of four and a best-selling author, Kim brings a wealth of personal and professional insight into reducing stress, building confidence, and fostering resilience in both kids and parents.We discuss the misconceptions about hypnotherapy, how it works, and why it's an accessible and transformative tool. Kim shares her journey from working with children with special needs to founding Entrancing Inspirations Hypnotherapy in 2016. Her mission? To help children and families decrease anxiety, improve communication, and tap into their inner strength through mindset and energy work.Kim also offers a simple, practical grounding technique to help parents shift from overwhelm to calm in minutes. This tool is a game-changer, whether you're preparing for a challenging day or navigating the chaos of daily life.Connect with Kim Guche: Peaceful Parent Hypnotic Meditation DownloadWebsiteInstagramFacebookRelated Episodes:Understanding Trauma As A Gateway To Healing with Meghann Crane - Russ  | Part 1 of 3Trauma In The Body, In The Mind, and In Our Lives with Meghann Crane - Russ   | Part 2 of 3Trauma Recovery Resources For The Special Needs Mom with Meghann Crane - Russ  | Part 3 of 3Give yourself the gift of COZY:https://cozyearth.com/Up to 40% off promo code: SNMPODCASTConnect with Kara, host of The Special Needs Mom Podcast:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thespecialneedsmompodcast/Website: https://www.kararyska.com/Join the Community:Pathway to Peace Coaching Community is currently open for enrollment. Instantly get access to authentic community and weekly coaching! Give yourself the gift of growing alongside moms who deeply understand you and will be with you in your joys and sorrows. --------> Contact Me

Send us a textDecember is here, and with it, the chaos of the season! In this episode, I dive into the idea of "busting the bustle" and slowing down amidst the holiday madness. Inspired by The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry by John Mark Comer, I share insights on how chronic busyness can undermine the relationships and moments we cherish most.Together, we explore the concept of "being", how we show up, and how simple shifts in our mindset can transform stressful moments into opportunities for calm and connection. This holiday season, let's make space for love, presence, and maybe a little magic too. You deserve it.Resources from the episode:The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry by John Mark ComerStay tuned for next week's episode with hypnotherapist, Kim Gucci!Give yourself the gift of COZY:https://cozyearth.com/Up to 40% off promo code: SNMPODCASTConnect with Kara, host of The Special Needs Mom Podcast:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thespecialneedsmompodcast/Website: https://www.kararyska.com/Join the Community:Pathway to Peace Coaching Community is currently open for enrollment. Instantly get access to authentic community and weekly coaching! Give yourself the gift of growing alongside moms who deeply understand you and will be with you in your joys and sorrows. --------> Apply Here or Contact Me

Send us a textIn this week's episode, we're diving into the complexities of gratitude, especially during tough seasons. If the thought of gratitude feels like it's being forced down your throat, don't worry—you're not alone, and we're not here to push.I share practical ways to shift your perspective and share a heartfelt quote from Francis Weller about holding both sorrow and gratitude, and how this duality can stretch and grow us.Give yourself the gift of COZY:https://cozyearth.com/Up to 40% off promo code: SNMPODCASTConnect with Kara, host of The Special Needs Mom Podcast:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thespecialneedsmompodcast/Website: https://www.kararyska.com/Join the Community:Pathway to Peace Coaching Community is currently open for enrollment. Instantly get access to authentic community and weekly coaching! Give yourself the gift of growing alongside moms who deeply understand you and will be with you in your joys and sorrows. --------> Apply Here or Contact Me

Send us a textIn this week's community huddle, we dive into a heartfelt follow-up on loneliness and grief—topics we've explored in recent episodes. Picture this: a cozy space to connect with moms who truly get it. We talk about whispers of grief in everyday moments, how resilience sometimes feels like a mask, and finding strength in vulnerability.I'm joined by Shantay, Alyssa, and Annika, three incredible moms who open up about their unique parenting journeys, the unexpected emotions they've faced, and the power of shared community. We also touch on creating safe spaces, both physically and emotionally, and the profound impact of feeling truly seen and understood.Whether you're listening on your way to an appointment or with a warm cup of coffee, this episode invites you to reflect, connect, and feel supported in your journey.Let's keep the conversation going! Got thoughts on this episode? I'd love to hear from you. Shoot me a text!Episode Resources:The Wild Edge of Sorrow by Francis WellerA Special Needs Mom's Gratitude Journal by Amanda OwenGuest Details:Shantay Hindia: Mom to an 11-year-old daughter and an 8-year-old autistic son.Alyssa Meyerhofer: Mom of three, including Gabby, who has Trisomy 9p.Annika Atkins: Mom of 10-year-old Ella, diagnosed with Infantile Pompe Disease.Give yourself the gift of COZY:https://cozyearth.com/Up to 40% off promo code: SNMPODCASTConnect with Kara, host of The Special Needs Mom Podcast:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thespecialneedsmompodcast/Website: https://www.kararyska.com/Join the Community:Pathway to Peace Coaching Community is currently open for enrollment. Instantly get access to authentic community and weekly coaching! Give yourself the gift of growing alongside moms who deeply understand you and will be with you in your joys and sorrows. --------> Apply Here or Contact Me

Send us a textToday's conversation is one that I know many of us can relate to – balancing anxiety and our relationship with digital media. I'm thrilled to have Jennie Ketcham Crooks join us! Jennie is a clinical social worker, anxiety and OCD specialist, and founder of the West Coast Anxiety Clinic. Jennie has also been involved in research at the University of Washington, guest lectured at Harvard University, and appeared on popular television shows including Headline News, The View, and Oprah. She's here to unpack some powerful insights on navigating anxiety, managing our “shiny rectangle” (a.k.a. our phones), and making space for true connection.We dive deep into what makes anxiety tick, especially for special needs moms, and how our smartphones can be both a blessing and a trap. Jennie shares practical tips from her 30-day program in her book Look Up, which helps us rethink our digital consumption and build healthier relationships with technology. We also share a few laughs about managing “Brenda,” the little voice in our heads that always seems to have something to say!Connect with Jennie:West Coast Anxiety ClinicFacebookLinkedInInstagramLook Up: A 30-Day Path to Digital MinimalismEpisode Resources:Self-compassion resources at selfcompassion.orgMindful Self-Compassion for Burnout by Kristen NeffGet Out of Your Mind and Into Your Life by Steve Hayes'Connect with Kara, host of The Special Needs Mom Podcast:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thespecialneedsmompodcast/Website: https://www.kararyska.com/Join the Community:Pathway to Peace Coaching Community is currently open for enrollment. Instantly get access to authentic community and weekly coaching! Give yourself the gift of growing alongside moms who deeply understand you and will be with you in your joys and sorrows. --------> Apply Here or Contact Me

Send us a textThis episode continues our exploration of the often avoided topic: grief. I share a story about one of my special needs mom clients, “Diana,” who, through our work together, found acceptance and even a path to peace despite facing deep sadness and loss. This is her third conversation with me on the podcast and I am grateful she is back for again. We often think grief looks like constant sadness or that it follows neat “stages,” but it's much messier—and that's okay. Grief doesn't have to mean losing joy; in fact, it can create more room for it. I explore how embracing grief can actually open us up to feel fully alive. If you're looking for a supportive space to explore these topics, I've built a community just for that.Resources Mentioned: Diana's Episodes: Ep 163: "Regaining Control and Finding Tranquility"Ep 165: "Impossible Levels of Support and Acceptance..."Books:The Wild Edge of Sorrow by Francis WellerAs Long as You Need: Permission to Grieve by J.K. ParkRelated Episodes: Ep 220: "Let's Talk About Loneliness"Ep 221: "Antidote to Loneliness"Connect with Kara, host of The Special Needs Mom Podcast:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thespecialneedsmompodcast/Website: https://www.kararyska.com/Join the Community:Pathway to Peace Coaching Community is currently open for enrollment. Instantly get access to authentic community and weekly coaching! Give yourself the gift of growing alongside moms who deeply understand you and will be with you in your joys and sorrows. --------> Apply Here or Contact Me

Send us a textI sit down with Rachel Wojo, author of Desperate Prayers, a book born from her journey through immense grief, faith, and resilience as a special needs mom. Rachel shares her deeply personal experiences of loss, from her mother's battle with leukemia to the passing of her special needs daughter, Taylor.Together, we explore what it means to live with both grief and joy, finding peace and purpose in the hardest moments. Rachel talks about the role of simple prayers—like “God, help me”—in staying grounded and connected to her faith, even when life felt overwhelming. We also dive into the power of community, self-compassion, and letting go of the need to be in control.If you're navigating life as a special needs parent, facing grief, or looking to strengthen your faith in difficult times, this conversation will speak to you. Join us to hear Rachel's wisdom and encouragement for living fully, even in the face of life's hardest challenges.Resources Mentioned:Desperate Prayers by Rachel WojoBook Website: desperatesprayers.comRachel's website: rachelwojo.comRachel's Podcast: Untangling PrayerConnect with Kara, host of The Special Needs Mom Podcast:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thespecialneedsmompodcast/Website: https://www.kararyska.com/Join the Community:Pathway to Peace Coaching Community is currently open for enrollment. Instantly get access to authentic community and weekly coaching! Give yourself the gift of growing alongside moms who deeply understand you and will be with you in your joys and sorrows. --------> Apply Here or Contact Me

Send us a textIn this episode, I'm diving into the connection between grief and loneliness, picking up where we left off last week. I share a bit about my experience with Levi and how loneliness often shows up for us as special needs moms. The good news? The antidote to loneliness is connection.I also reference Dr. Vivek Murthy's book Together (an excellent read!) and talk about how loneliness can be as damaging as smoking or obesity. In this episode, I share how we can break the cycle of loneliness by:Questioning those disempowering beliefs like “No one understands me.”Joining communities like my Pathway to Peace coaching program.Allowing ourselves to be vulnerable and build connections, even through pain.Next week, I'll be doing an interview episode, and I'll dive deeper into the topic of grief itself.Resources Mentioned:Episode 220: Let's Talk About Loneliness - last week's episode - go back and give it a listen!Together by Dr. Vivek MurthyIf you found this episode helpful, I'd love for you to share it with a friend—maybe it'll spark a conversation about breaking the cycle of isolation and loneliness.Connect with Kara, host of The Special Needs Mom Podcast:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thespecialneedsmompodcast/Website: https://www.kararyska.com/Join the Community:Pathway to Peace Coaching Community is currently open for enrollment. Instantly get access to authentic community and weekly coaching! Give yourself the gift of growing alongside moms who deeply understand you and will be with you in your joys and sorrows. --------> Apply Here or Contact Me

Send us a textIn this episode, I explore the deep connection between loneliness and grief as a special needs mom. Loneliness can feel like stepping into an unfamiliar world, while the rest of your community continues on like nothing has changed. We discuss how relationships shift in these moments and why feeling abandoned is such a common experience. This is just Part 1, where we unpack loneliness, so stay tuned for Part 2, where I'll share more on the antidote to loneliness and offer actionable insights!If you found this episode helpful, share it with your community, tag me @thespecialneedsmompodcast, or leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify!Resources from this episode:Together by Dr. Vivek H Murthy The Dictionary of Emotions: Words for Feelings, Moods & Emotions by Patrick Michael Ryan Episode 189: Bringing Balance Back to The Language of Disability with Effie ParksEpisode 196: Between The Cracks: Navigating Belonging in Cancer & Rare Diseases with Parvathy KrishnanConnect with Kara, host of The Special Needs Mom Podcast:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thespecialneedsmompodcast/Website: https://www.kararyska.com/Join the Community:Pathway to Peace Coaching Community is currently open for enrollment. Instantly get access to authentic community and weekly coaching! Give yourself the gift of growing alongside moms who deeply understand you and will be with you in your joys and sorrows. --------> Apply Here or Contact Me

Send us a textThis week, I thought I'd be back with a full episode, but instead, here's a quick check-in and a preview of what's to come.I share a bit about our recent school emergency and the challenging space of not knowing what's next. If you've ever had to live in that uncertainty, you'll relate. I also talk about the importance of giving ourselves permission to let go when needed (shoutout to my editor for pushing me to give myself a break).On the horizon? I'm working on episodes about loneliness and grief—two emotions that often go hand-in-hand, especially in our community.Lastly, I'd love to hear from YOU! Use the "Text the Show" feature in the show notes to share what you're going through or suggest topics for future episodes.Connect with Kara, host of The Special Needs Mom Podcast:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thespecialneedsmompodcast/Website: https://www.kararyska.com/Join the Community:Pathway to Peace Coaching Community is currently open for enrollment. Instantly get access to authentic community and weekly coaching! Give yourself the gift of growing alongside moms who deeply understand you and will be with you in your joys and sorrows. --------> Apply Here or Contact Me

Send us a textDuring a peloton ride recently, my instructor Robin Arzon, said something that has stuck with me. "Find your people, and climb your mountains together." I instantly thought of all of you. As special needs moms, we face tough challenges, but we're stronger when we support each other. This is what I talk about on today's episode, and also how self-care impacts those around us—and why that's okay!Peloton Ride with Robin Arzon (not sponsored)Connect with Kara, host of The Special Needs Mom Podcast:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thespecialneedsmompodcast/Website: https://www.kararyska.com/Join the Community:Pathway to Peace Coaching Community is currently open for enrollment. Instantly get access to authentic community and weekly coaching! Give yourself the gift of growing alongside moms who deeply understand you and will be with you in your joys and sorrows. --------> Apply Here or Contact Me

Send us a textThis week, to take care of myself, I'm hitting pause on a full episode. In its place I have something special for you: I'm sharing my contribution to the anthology Becoming Brave Together: Heroic, Extraordinary Caregiving Stories from Mothers Hidden in Plain Sight.My piece, titled Anger. Rage. Fear. Surrender. Repeat. takes you through the raw emotions of caregiving—navigating medical systems, grappling with endless appointments, and finding peace in moments of surrender. It's a deep dive into the realities we face but rarely talk about.If you connect with this, you'll definitely want to grab the anthology—it's packed with stories from incredible moms, just like you.Enjoy, and we'll be back next week with a regular episode!Connect with Kara, host of The Special Needs Mom Podcast:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thespecialneedsmompodcast/Website: https://www.kararyska.com/Coaching OpportunitiesPathway to Peace {Coaching Community}: Schedule a Consult or Contact Me

Send us a textThis is an un-episode episode, a break from our regularly scheduled programming. Here are some previous episodes for your binging pleasure: Trauma, Shame & Loss of Identity https://www.buzzsprout.com/1190612/14473465 Understanding Trauma as a Gateway to Healing Pt 1. https://www.buzzsprout.com/1190612/14507073Trauma in the Body, In the Mind, & In Our Lives Pt 2 https://www.buzzsprout.com/1190612/14547417Trauma Recovery Resources Pt 3 https://www.buzzsprout.com/1190612/14572094Easy Self Compassion with Kaitlyn McCarty https://www.buzzsprout.com/1190612/10475858Having Your Own Back with Charmaine Fuller https://www.buzzsprout.com/1190612/9357658Grief and Gratitude https://www.buzzsprout.com/1190612/11723308When People Think You're Fine but You're Not   https://www.buzzsprout.com/1190612/12134357Connect with Kara, host of The Special Needs Mom Podcast:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thespecialneedsmompodcast/Website: https://www.kararyska.com/Coaching OpportunitiesPathway to Peace {Coaching Community}: Schedule a Consult or Contact Me

Send us a textIn this episode, I'm sharing a rough day I had when something totally unexpected threw me off. I won't go into details (to respect my son's privacy), but I was left feeling embarrassed and powerless. Ever been there?This led me to the idea of self-care in advance—basically, planning ahead for those stressful moments we know are coming, like IEP meetings or doctor's appointments. I talk about how prepping for these events can make a huge difference, even if it's as simple as planning an easy dinner or giving yourself a break. Listen and learn how planning your self-care before chaos hits is a game changer! Connect with Kara, host of The Special Needs Mom Podcast:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thespecialneedsmompodcast/Website: https://www.kararyska.com/Coaching OpportunitiesPathway to Peace {Coaching Community}: Schedule a Consult or Contact Me

Send us a textIn this episode, I sit down with Andie Torres, a fellow special needs mom, author, and "maker of pretty things" for this podcast. Andie shares her journey as a special needs mom, how she is learning to let go of the need to control everything, and the importance of having compassion for those inside and outside of the disability community. She shares a story of how advocating for her son's health, despite pushback, ultimately saved his life. We also talk about what she has learned in her unique co-parenting dynamic and how they have learned to share their fears and build trust with each other. This episode offers valuable insights with a mix of honesty, humor and warmth for everyone. Tune in and join the conversation!Connect with our Guest, Andie TorresInstagram: @we.are.takingcareWebsite: www.wearetakingcare.comYouTube: www.YouTube.com/@taking_careResources from the episode:Book: Becoming Brave Together: Heroic, extraordinary caregiving stories from mothers hidden in plain sightWe Are Brave Together OrganizationConnect with Kara, host of The Special Needs Mom Podcast:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thespecialneedsmompodcast/Website: https://www.kararyska.com/Coaching OpportunitiesPathway to Peace {Coaching Community}: Schedule a Consult or Contact Me

Send us a Text Message.Why do we find ourselves on the fringe? Why do we find ourselves alone even though we so deeply want to belong? In this episode we look at why we feel isolated inside the diagnoses communities of our kids. I share my personal experience with my family at Oncology & Kids Camp (OAK) this last weekend and why this was our only our first year here, even though Levi's first tumor was 13 years ago. Opting into a community can bring connection, support, and a sense of belonging, even when your experience feels so different than others. Connect with Oncology & Kids Camp (OAK):https://oncologyandkids.org/Connect with Kara, host of The Special Needs Mom Podcast:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thespecialneedsmompodcast/Website: https://www.kararyska.com/Coaching OpportunitiesPathway to Peace {Group Coaching Program}: Schedule a Consult or Contact Me

Send us a Text Message.In this candid episode, I sit around a virtual table and catch up with a group of incredible moms from our community. They share their personal stories, discuss the challenges they faced this summer, and offer each other (and you) support and encouragement. This episode is all about being known, seen, and supported in the journey of raising children with special needs.Fun Fact:Three of our four guests (Lora, Rachel & Andie) are all contributing authors to the anthology I am also an author in, Becoming Brave Together. Connect With Our Community Huddle Guests:Lora DeMello @colormesmiling18Elisa Hill @elisalhillRachel Alves @alvesmomkickingcaskAndie Torres @we.are.takingcareConnect With We Are Brave Together: Join the Community: Connect with the "We Are Brave Together" group on Facebook, where moms can find a safe supportive space to share their experiences without judgment.Participate in the 5K: Sign up for the annual 5K event, whether locally or virtually, to support the cause and help reach the goal of 300 participants.Read the Anthology: Explore the "We Are Brave Together" anthology, a collection of stories that offer hope and solidarity to moms in the special needs community.Dive into Self Care:  Does self care ever seem either superficial or way too much work? That's why this free resource was created. It's a list of 72 "bite size" ideas for you to make your self care practical, meaningful and attainable Binge the work of WABT Connect with Kara, host of The Special Needs Mom Podcast:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thespecialneedsmompodcast/Website: https://www.kararyska.com/Coaching OpportunitiesPathway to Peace {Group Coaching Program}: Schedule a Consult or Contact Me

Send us a Text Message.In this episode we delve into the transition from the chaos of summer to the stability of fall. I candidly share my own struggles during the summer, particularly around unmet needs for my disabled son, Levi, and offer hope and practical advice for making this seasonal shift smoother for special needs families like mine.I introduce the concept of “closing the last chapter” before moving forward and emphasize the importance of intentional reflection on the summer season. By assessing what worked, what didn't, and what can be done differently, I encourage you to create a plan for a more stable and fulfilling fall.Ready to make the shift from summer to stable? Join me, Kara, in the Pathway to Peace coaching community and be part of a supportive community that understands the unique challenges of special needs parenting. We are shifting to an even more connected and community based feel, think a coffee date with friends. Introductory pricing is available for a limited time for early birds!  Reach out to Kara for more details.Connect with Kara, host of The Special Needs Mom Podcast:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thespecialneedsmompodcast/Website: https://www.kararyska.com/Coaching OpportunitiesPathway to Peace {Group Coaching Program}: Schedule a Consult or Contact Me

Send us a Text Message.In this episode, we are exploring the transformative tool of AI, specifically ChatGPT, and how it can be a game changer for caregivers and special needs moms. From streamlining tasks, to assisting with paperwork and medical bills, to enhancing email communication, discover how this tech can be your new best friend. We hope this episode inspires you to explore the capabilities of AI and how it can simplify your life! Join The Email List to stay connected to what's happening within the community and on the pod! Subscribe to the podcast on your favorite streaming platform.Share Your Stories: We'd love to hear how you've used AI in your life! Share your experiences on social media and tag @thespecialneedsmompodcast!Connect with Kara, host of The Special Needs Mom Podcast:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thespecialneedsmompodcast/Website: https://www.kararyska.com/Coaching OpportunitiesPathway to Peace {Group Coaching Program}: Schedule a Consult or Contact Me

Send us a Text Message.In honor of our Summer Sabbath Challenge, we are taking time to invest in rest. To give us more space and time we are rebroadcasting previous episodes for June & July. This is the last episode in the series and it is a companion episode to Reclaiming Your Life: The Journey from Helpless to Empowered, last week's episode.This is a rebroadcast of Episode 105 that aired September of 2022. In today's episode, I talk about ways we can rewrite the narrative and take responsibility for our emotions, even in this difficult circumstances we face as special needs moms.First, we need to distinguish between facts and our interpretations. I share a few examples of facts in our life and some negative interpretations that our brains often jump to. The key in taking back control is to realize that while we can't control the situations (facts) in our lives, we can control how we relate to these things that are happening.I hope this episode gives you a different outlook on how to be in these tough times. As always, feel free to message me if you want to dig into this topic more on a one-on-on basis.Connect with Kara, host of The Special Needs Mom Podcast:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thespecialneedsmompodcast/Website: https://www.kararyska.com/Coaching OpportunitiesPathway to Peace {Group Coaching Program}: Schedule a Consult or Contact Me

Send us a Text Message.In honor of our Summer Sabbath Challenge, we are taking time to invest in rest. To give us more space and time we are rebroadcasting previous episodes for June & July. Stick around! I am bringing back some really well received episodes that I know you'll enjoy!This is a rebroadcast of Episode 103 that aired September of 2022. In this week episode, I'm diving into a topic that came to me from a client's suggestion. It's the idea of the opposing ways we can find ourselves; being at cause/ having choice & being at effect/feeling like the victim. Today, I'm specifically talking about the many ways we can find ourselves in the victim role because of our choices and circumstances.For now, be sure to take my personal examples and notes and to reflect on your own life as a special needs mom.Connect with Kara, host of The Special Needs Mom Podcast:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thespecialneedsmompodcast/Website: https://www.kararyska.com/Coaching OpportunitiesPathway to Peace {Group Coaching Program}: Schedule a Consult or Contact Me

Send us a Text Message.In honor of our Summer Sabbath Challenge, we are taking time to invest in rest. To give us more space and time we are rebroadcasting previous episodes for June & July. Stick around! I am bringing back some really well received episodes that I know you'll enjoy!This is a rebroadcast of Episode 24 that aired February 2021.This week, l'm talking about a topic that I feel very passionate about, self love. Often people (especially in the Christian faith) look down on self love because it's considered conceited and we're putting God below ourselves. I'm taking this idea of self love to be more practical in ways like regulating our emotions and maintaining a good relationship with your body.Connect with Kara, host of The Special Needs Mom Podcast:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thespecialneedsmompodcast/Website: https://www.kararyska.com/Coaching OpportunitiesPathway to Peace {Group Coaching Program}: Schedule a Consult or Contact Me

Send us a Text Message.In honor of our Summer Sabbath Challenge, we are taking time to invest in rest. To give us more space and time we are rebroadcasting previous episodes for June & July. Stick around! I am bringing back some really well received episodes that I know you'll enjoy!This is a rebroadcast of Episode 164 that aired in September of 2023. In this episode of the Special Needs Mom Podcast, we delve into distinguishing between ‘hard things' and ‘suffering.' It's a journey of resilience, a shift from suffering to self-compassion, from being mired in guilt, judgment, shame, and resistance to steering clear of them. We're called to face difficult and often unpleasant emotions, but suffering doesn't have to be our default response.Connect with Kara, host of The Special Needs Mom Podcast:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thespecialneedsmompodcast/Website: https://www.kararyska.com/Coaching OpportunitiesPathway to Peace {Group Coaching Program}: Schedule a Consult or Contact Me

Send us a Text Message.It's the launch of our summer sabbath series! Kara discusses how summer will look different on the pod over the summer months and invites you to join her in her season of rest. The episode ends with some "extra credit" for you to get you through change of pace that having our kiddos out of school creates.Connect with Kara, host of The Special Needs Mom Podcast:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thespecialneedsmompodcast/Website: https://www.kararyska.com/Coaching OpportunitiesPathway to Peace {Group Coaching Program}: Schedule a Consult or Contact Me

Send us a Text Message.Fellow brain cancer mama and podcast host, Wendy Taylor, sat down with me this week to talk about the call that changed everything, what it's like to prepare our teenage boys for adulthood and how the educational system can work to more seamlessly support our special needs kids in learning and life.  Wendy is a certified Educational Therapist, Orton-Gillingham practitioner, Educational Diagnostician, and IEP Coach.  Her podcast is dedicated to empowering parents and professionals in the special education process while her business, Learning Essentials, is designed to meet each student's unique needs. Wendy is your partner in bridging learning gaps and accessing vital special education services. I am honored to have shared this conversation with Wendy and to connect on our shared journey of raising sons who have battled brain cancer.Connect with Wendy:Instagram - www.instagram.com/learningessentials/ LinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/in/wendy-taylor-7106b6a6/Facebook - www.facebook.com/TutoringLE Website - www.LearningEssentialsEDU.comPodcast - Special Ed Strategist® PodcastConnect with Kara, host of The Special Needs Mom Podcast:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thespecialneedsmompodcast/Website: https://www.kararyska.com/Coaching OpportunitiesPathway to Peace {Group Coaching Program}: Schedule a Consult or Contact Me

Send us a Text Message.In honor of our Summer Sabbath Challenge, we are taking time to invest in rest. To give us more space and time we are rebroadcasting previous episodes for June & July. Stick around! I am bringing back some really well received episodes that I know you'll enjoy!This is a rebroadcast of Episode 78 that aired March 2022.This weeks episode is shedding some light on toxic positivity. I think we all have experienced this in one way or another although we may not realize it. It looks like someone saying, "Everything will be okay" or "You need to focus on the positive!"While I will never underestimate the power of hope and positive thinking, it becomes toxic when others (or even you are using positivity to cover up negative emotions or events in our lives. We have to have a balance and be able to feel the wide range of emotions to make it through these events.Connect with Kara, host of The Special Needs Mom Podcast:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thespecialneedsmompodcast/Website: https://www.kararyska.com/Coaching OpportunitiesPathway to Peace {Group Coaching Program}: Schedule a Consult or Contact Me

Send us a Text Message.In honor of our Summer Sabbath Challenge, we are taking time to invest in rest. To give us more space and time we are rebroadcasting previous episodes for June & July. Stick around! I am bringing back some really well received episodes that I know you'll enjoy!This is a rebroadcast of Episode 131 that aired February 2023.Do you find yourself blowing up at your kids? Losing your cool with your spouse? You are not alone. In this episode, I give you some ways to dig into this and get more curious about why you're acting this way.Connect with Kara, host of The Special Needs Mom Podcast:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thespecialneedsmompodcast/Website: https://www.kararyska.com/Coaching OpportunitiesPathway to Peace {Group Coaching Program}: Schedule a Consult or Contact Me

Send us a Text Message.This episode is an oldie, but a goodie. We explore how hard it is to remove our identity from the actions and behaviors of our children, how it isn't a reflection of our parenting and how we can give away our power to the opinions of others. I invite you to look within yourself and ask some uncomfortable questions to find a place of acceptance and relief. **In an effort to honor my personal needs and the needs of my family, I am re-airing an episode I recorded a few years ago. You know, sometimes life just demands more of us and I want to honor that and not over burden myself.** Connect with Kara, host of The Special Needs Mom Podcast:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thespecialneedsmompodcast/Website: https://www.kararyska.com/Coaching OpportunitiesPathway to Peace {Group Coaching Program}: Schedule a Consult or Contact Me Join The Special Needs Mom Podcast Community FaceBook Group!! Click here to Request to Join

Send us a Text Message.Here we are, we've reached 200 episodes! What an exciting milestone! Let's celebrate by getting deep and taking questions from you, my beloved community and friends. The questions range from deeply personal to practical and logistical. Even my kids weigh in. Thank you to everyone who messaged or commented with your questions. Much, much appreciated!Resources from this episode:Becoming Brave Together - Anthology with contributing author Kara RyskaOur YouTube channel now has video (but not this week)Wild Edge of Sorrow by Francis WellerAshley Barlow  website |  podcast |  instagramYou Need a Budget Phone App Connect with Kara, host of The Special Needs Mom Podcast:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thespecialneedsmompodcast/Website: https://www.kararyska.com/Coaching OpportunitiesPathway to Peace {Group Coaching Program}: Schedule a Consult or Contact Me Join The Special Needs Mom Podcast Community FaceBook Group!! Click here to Request to Join

Send us a Text Message.Get it? Just a little mom humor with my Lego Movie reference. I couldn't help myself.

This conversation is a necessary and stimulating (pun intended) exchange between Cindy and myself. This podcast was created to serve and focus on you, the special needs mom, and this episode is exactly that. You deserve to be connected to your own sensuality. Cindy Scharkey is a nurse with over 3 decades of experience in healthcare. She is passionate about breaking the silence surrounding women's sexuality and empowering parents to be their child's sexual health educator. Through her podcast, Permission for Pleasure, as well as her workshops, newsletter and consultations, she desires to provide the holistic sex education that every woman needs to experience more pleasure.Resources from this episodeEsther PerezThe Artist's Way by Julia CameronConnect with our guest, Cindy ScharkeyWebsite www.cindyscharkey.comInstagram @cindyscharkeyFacebook @scharkeycindyPodcast Permission for Pleasure www.cindyscharkey.com/podcast Connect with Kara, host of The Special Needs Mom Podcast:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thespecialneedsmompodcast/Website: https://www.kararyska.com/Coaching OpportunitiesPathway to Peace {Group Coaching Program}: Schedule a Consult or Contact Me Join The Special Needs Mom Podcast Community FaceBook Group!! Click here to Request to Join

This week's episode is my ode to you, special needs mama.  I share from my heart about our role as Mother, in all its complexity and beauty. My hope is that you feel validated, seen and honored.Happy Mother's Day! Connect with Kara, host of The Special Needs Mom Podcast:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thespecialneedsmompodcast/Website: https://www.kararyska.com/Coaching OpportunitiesPathway to Peace {Group Coaching Program}: Schedule a Consult or Contact Me Join The Special Needs Mom Podcast Community FaceBook Group!! Click here to Request to Join