Welcome To Our Table

In October of 2021, we interviewed Levi's mom, Lindsey, and she described for us what life was like for Levi with left hypoplastic heart syndrome.  Well, fast forward and hold onto your hats, Levi has a new heart!  Come get excited with us as we hear from Levi's mom, Lindsey, about his heart transplant journey.

Educators! Burnt out? Discouraged?  Come listen to our interview with Dianna Duddy and learn how her coaching methods can turn your career and work experience around.   Check out her coaching services at Rediscovery Coaching.  Her coaching is the light at the end of the tunnel that you are looking for.

Complete transparency...there isn't a perfect formula to understand God's timing and purpose in our lives.  It can feel difficult to understand God's ways and His timing.  We all struggle with the question, "what is my purpose?"  In this episode, Lisa and I try to give you steps to a better relationship with God in hopes that knowing Him better allows you to know your purpose and His timing.

Nancy Gianni is founder of GiGi's Playhouse.  She was inspired by her daughter, GiGi, to start an organization where there would be acceptance and empowerment for all.  Nancy wants to change the way the world sees Down Syndrome.  This interview is phenomenal and will inspire you to want to be part of the change and be #GenerationG. 

Dr. Barbra Hanna, a board certified gynecologist and certified menopause specialist, is bringing all her expertise to her office and her hybrid digital health clinic.  She is here to empower women to enter into menopause gracefully and to be the healthiest we can be.  We don't have to be pushed aside and our symptoms ignored.  Ladies listen up, we have someone fighting for us.

Dawn, famously known as "The Minimal Mom", shares tips and inspiration on how to simplify and declutter your life and home so you can live an undistracted life.  This is a powerful and super helpful episode to encourage you to live life and stop letting "stuff" control your home and family!

Grab your free blue light!  Liam's Lights is a charitable organization that gives away blue lights that can be displayed outside of your home.  These lights will spark a coversation around supporting families and embracing autism.  Thank you Liam for being a light in our community!

Trish and her husband Ryan wanted to start a family.  Unfortunately, they experienced several pregnancy losses.  They were discouraged and grieved at these losses but very thankful that adoption was an option.  They believe that family is family and love is love no matter the path you take to get there. Well, we will let Trish tell you the rest of the story...it's a must listen!

Julius Alfaro knew at a young age that he had an affinity for voice-over acting.  But living in the Chicagoland area didn't bring opportunity for this type of career.  However, life brought him to California and now the dream can become a reality.  

Lifestyle and event photographer Alyson Keen is owner and artist of Leave Her Wild.  Her unique pictures capture the souls and personalities of her subjects. She sees beauty in the every day aspects of life and gives us a captured moment that can be fondly remembered.  

Spending time in the natural world can bring so much joy and tranquility. Our guest today, Kim Shade, brings her knowledge, wisdom, humor and expertise as she shares with us tips and tricks on starting and maintaining a garden.  Whether you are a novice or an expert looking for new ideas, Kim shares it all. As the weather begins to warm up and we find ourselves itching to get outdoors, you don't want to miss the chance to hear what it takes to turn your bare yard into a visual masterpiece.  

Magnolia Soap and Bath in St. Charles is a must visit for the products and the experience.  Owner, Mandy Buerster, has great vision and a big heart.  Come listen and be inspired to do great things with great love.

Fun. Cute. Fashion.  Listen to Hannah Faurot tell her story of creating an online community that encourages women as well as designing adorable accessories that you can find at www.hanmadegoods.com  and follow her on instagram @han.madegoods

Music is a gift to the heart and soul.  Few people have the talent to create, sing, write and teach music.  Music Artist Peter Kruse has a special place in our hearts because of his talent as a songwriter and vocalist as well as his willingness to teach others the gift of music.

We believe that love starts with God.  We love because He first loved us.  Love can mean different things to each of us but we all want to be loved.  Today we share how we think about love and the giving and recieving of it.  

Right before her 1st birthday, Reed had a seizure and that seizure started the search for an answer.  Her parents, Logan and Nicole, advocated for their daughter and the diagnosis of Dravet syndrome was the devestating blow.  But this resilient and amazing family has held onto their faith and they inspire us with their love and outlook on life.

We have all made mistakes.  Mistakes are a large part of being human.  The question is, do you tell your children all your mistakes?  Is it helpful to be fully transparent?  We explore this concept during our episode.

Dr. Matt Karsten shows us how to live a life full of love, faith, humility and compassion for others. His infectious joy and passion for his work, patients and family is limitless.  Dr. Matt tells us his story of how he found his way into dentistry, opening two very successful practices, with the encouragement and support from his wife and opportunities only made possible by God. You will laugh, you may cry, but will ultimately walk away from this episode being totally inspired. Inspiration from an ordinary man doing extraordinary work, through what he will share, is only by the grace of God.

Christmas is a magical time of year.  And, every family has their own traditions and ways they spend the Christmas season. In this episode we share our family's traditions and memories with you.  Welcome to Our Christmas Table.

Rising Lights Project is creating something greatly needed in our community.  The mission of Rising Lights Project "is to provide an environment where individuals with disabilities can thrive, learn, laugh, and engage with the broader community."  The founder of Rising Lights Project is Jaimie Valentini and we wanted to share her passion with you in this episode.  

Want great skin? All you need is Michelle Santucci along with Rodan and Fields.  She is incredibly helpful and knows how to utilize Rodan and Fields products to maximize your skin's beauty and potential. She can help you put your best face forward.  Contact Michelle: Her website is Msantucci.myrandf.com and her email is Michelle.santucci@sbcglobal.net 

We recorded this episode about two weeks ago and the CDC has come out with new data.  At the time of our interview, autism prevalence was 1:54 but the newest data is 1:44 children have autism.  Autism has increased 241%.  The Autism Hero Project is here to help children, families, and our community.  Awareness is key.  Early and consistent therapies as well as other resources are needed and the Autism Hero Project is tackling this need in our community.  Please head to their website www.autismheroproject.org and follow them on instagram @autismheroproject and facebook The Autism Hero Project

Robyn White knew she wanted a flexible work schedule so that she could be home with her children.  She joined Thirty-One Gifts to help reach that goal.  As her business has grown, so has her beautiful family.  Robyn and her husband, Kevin, knew that adoption would be part of their story.  Their adoption journey blessed them with their third daughter.  Growing a business and growing a family can be difficult but there is so much good in the hard.

Thanksgiving is a time for sharing a table with the people we are thankful for and today we welcome you to our table as we chat about past Thanksgivings...food, traditions, and memories.  

Do you ever meet someone and think "they have lived through so many things in one life?" Well, that is how Lisa and I felt after meeting and speaking to Dr. Angela Freehill Brown.  She is an orthopaedic surgeon, mom, wife, blogger, entrepreneur and breast cancer warrior.  She has mastered medical school, infertility, and breast cancer.  And, more than all of that, she is willing to inspire and help you with her story. 

We often hear that kids are resilient, and they can be, but they aren't immune to stress and anxiety.   Ally Guimaray gives us a peek into the mental health world of adolescence and the importance of supporting and connecting with our children.  

What movies do you like?  What books do you enjoy?  Who influences you? We had so much fun discussing our favorite movies, books, family activities, influencers, and more! We would love to hear about your favorites! Comment on our facebook page or instagram and let us know what you love! 

Winnie Wiegel graciously shares her family's story of great loss.  Their journey of unbearable pain has taught them to appreciate the aspects of life that truly matter.  We are so thankful for her transparency and vulnerability.  We are confident that her story will comfort and encourage others suffering from miscarriage and stillbirth.

Lindsey invites us along on their family's journey with hypoplastic left heart syndrome.  From the time the doctors told them of Levi's condition to present day...we get to hear it all.  Also, Lindsey gives us insight into acceptance of your circumstances, faith, and organizations that helped them along the way.  SomeassemblyrequiredCCU.org helps cardiac families in their moment of need by providing parking passes for free.  And, Ronald McDonald House Charities and their great service to families.

Lisa shares with us her mother's battle with two types of cancer.  A mother's story told by her daughter with true transparency along with deep sorrow and grief.  God promises to be with us during our suffering but the pain of grief is so palpable.  We can still hold onto our Faith and still know that God is good even in the unthinkable difficulties of life.

Adalyn's story reminds us to be advocates for our children.  We need to raise awareness that childhood cancers need more funding to allow the invaluable research to be done.  We are so thankful to her mother, Amy Pohaski, to share the details of their family's journey with cancer.  Amy mentioned two organizations that are aiding the fight:  Cal's Angels and St. Baldrick's Foundation.  Please consider donating or volunteering!

Why does it feel like we don't have enough hours in the day to complete all the things we want to do or finish??  Do we create our busy schedules because of the pressure to "do it all?"  What is important to you and your family?  Take back your schedule today!

Why is the market so hot right now? Thinking about buying a home?  Do you have a home to sell?  Not sure where to start or what to do?? You will after listening to this interview with Realtor Jackie Theisen.  And, after you will feel empowered to start the process...contact Jackie for assistance in finding or selling the place you call home.  Jackie@sarahleonardsells.com or text/call 847-778-2636

DIY projects are a great and rewarding way to improve your space.  Where do you start?  What ideas are out there?  How do you stay motivated?  Look no further!  TheDIYVIBE.com with Amy Keene will guide you and inspire you during your projects.  

Author Sheri Powrozek brings insight and inspiration to aspiring authors by sharing with us her writing and authorship journey.  She is married with two children and has self-published several books. She wants you to chase your dreams and realize that anything is possible. 

Healthy mindset and knowing your "why" along with being coached by Rachel Slezak will start you on a great journey to wellness! We are certain you will want to know Rachel and hear more about how she can be your guide on the path to healthy living.  Contact her via Facebook Messenger at "Rachel Slezak" or instagram @rachelslezak7. 

Intrusive thoughts can be a battle that we all need tools to help fight against.  One of those helpful tools is daily affirmations...might sound hokey but give it a chance!  Today we discuss daily affirmations and the role they play in your life to move you towards a positive mindset.  Daily affirmations are used to remind you of your purpose, your goals, who you are and who you are becoming.  Welcome to Daily Affirmations.  

Luke Preussler brings perspective on the role of the faith community among individuals living within the margins. The importance of relationship and collaboration when decisions are being made to aid a particular person or group of people.  And, why dignity matters.  We hope you enjoy this enlightening conversation as much as we did! Head to ccda.org for more info on getting involved. Check out "Tattoos on the Heart" by Gregory Boyle.

What's for Dinner!?  Dinner, also known to some as supper, is the evening meal that some people dread to think about and prepare.  We wrap a lot of emotion and expectations into this meal and this needs to stop.  Prepare and execute your meal plan that is right for your family and current situation.  Come to our table and chat about dinner.  

The book of Jonah is more than just a story of a guy in the belly of a whale. The Old Testament Prophet Jonah didn't love his enemies.  He didn't want God to be gracious to his enemies, but God used him despite his bad attitude and unloving spirit to bring the news of repentance and the grace of God.  Come listen to our discussion of how God used Jonah to teach us to hold a mirror up to our hearts and see what is reflected. 

This is a brief episode to share with you some of our favorite things. It is always fun to hear about new items, activities or experiences that your girlfriends have done or come across. Many items I have purchased or activities I have done have come from someone else sharing with me their own experiences with that item or activity. Enjoy!

We have an informative and fun convo about hair and skin care...specifically Monat's product line!  We learn about their products and the company and we meet Nicole!  Nicole is a stylist of 18 years that brings a wealth of knowledge about hair care and skin care and the amazing company that she works for...MONAT! If you want to join this company or use their products find her on instagram @npreussler

Welcome To Our Table! This trailer is a brief summary of what to expect in our future episodes!  Get read for a fun ride and great discussions!