Podcasts about zoe shaw

We talk a lot about people-pleasing, perfectionism, overachieving, anxiety, and self-doubt. But what if those aren't actually the root problem? What if they're symptoms of something deeper, heavier, and far more hidden? In this episode, Nicole sits down with Dr. Zoe Shaw — licensed psychotherapist, relationship coach, speaker, podcast host, and author of Stronger in the Difficult Places — to unpack the uncomfortable but life-changing topic of complex shame. Not the fleeting embarrassment kind. The deep, identity-level shame that quietly shapes how we see ourselves, what we believe we deserve, and how small or safe we allow ourselves to play in life. Dr. Zoe shares her own deeply personal story and explains how shame develops, how it disguises itself as “normal” behavior, and why healing requires more than just positive affirmations and surface-level self-help. This conversation dives into trauma, self-worth, people-pleasing, boundaries, vulnerability, confirmation bias, and the stories we carry about ourselves — often without realizing it. In This Episode, We Explore: The difference between guilt, shame, and complex shame Why people-pleasing and perfectionism may actually be rooted in shame How shame shapes identity, relationships, and self-worth The hidden ways women learn to hide themselves Why overachieving can become a coping mechanism The “phantom critic” vs. the “courageous truth teller” Why healing starts with honesty, not toxic positivity Practical first steps for untangling deep shame patterns How vulnerability helps shame lose its power Thank you to our sponsors! Become a Fora Advisor today at Foratravel.com/WOMAN - and make sure to tell them we sent you! Elevate your summer wardrobe: Go to Quince.com/tiww for free shipping on your order and 365-day returns! Visit Upwork.com right now and post your job for free! Families are better when they're working together… go to myskylight.com/WOMANSWORK for $30 off your Skylight Calendar. Start your risk-free Greenlight trial today at Greenlight.com/TIWW. Don't wait to teach your kids real-world money skills! Connect with Zoe: Book: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/740766/stronger-in-the-difficult-places-by-dr-zoe-shaw/  Website: https://drzoeshaw.com/  IG: https://www.instagram.com/drzoeshaw/ Related Podcast Episodes High-Functioning Codependency: When Being “The Strong One” Is Slowly Killing You with Terri Cole | 341 Normalize It: Breaking The Silence & Shame That Shape Women's Lives with Dr. Jessica Zucker | 303 Like A Wave, We Break: How Falling Apart Builds Confidence with Jane Chen | 388 Share the Love: If you found this episode insightful, please share it with a friend, tag us on social media, and leave a review on your favorite podcast platform!

Episode 22 - Julia Woods joins Jessica and Susanna to discuss marriage, vulnerability, emotional connection and navigating hardship together.Disclaimer: Please note that all information and content on the UK Health Radio Network, all its radio broadcasts and podcasts are provided by the authors, producers, presenters and companies themselves and is only intended as additional information to your general knowledge. As a service to our listeners/readers our programs/content are for general information and entertainment only.  The UK Health Radio Network does not recommend, endorse, or object to the views, products or topics expressed or discussed by show hosts or their guests, authors and interviewees.  We suggest you always consult with your own professional – personal, medical, financial or legal advisor. So please do not delay or disregard any professional – personal, medical, financial or legal advice received due to something you have heard or read on the UK Health Radio Network.

Episode 21 - Dan Habib shares how storytelling, advocacy and his son's journey help redefine disability inclusion, belonging and community.Disclaimer: Please note that all information and content on the UK Health Radio Network, all its radio broadcasts and podcasts are provided by the authors, producers, presenters and companies themselves and is only intended as additional information to your general knowledge. As a service to our listeners/readers our programs/content are for general information and entertainment only.  The UK Health Radio Network does not recommend, endorse, or object to the views, products or topics expressed or discussed by show hosts or their guests, authors and interviewees.  We suggest you always consult with your own professional – personal, medical, financial or legal advisor. So please do not delay or disregard any professional – personal, medical, financial or legal advice received due to something you have heard or read on the UK Health Radio Network.

Episode 20 - Artist Alexis Brygider shares her journey growing up autistic, finding connection through art and thriving as a neurodivergent adult.Disclaimer: Please note that all information and content on the UK Health Radio Network, all its radio broadcasts and podcasts are provided by the authors, producers, presenters and companies themselves and is only intended as additional information to your general knowledge. As a service to our listeners/readers our programs/content are for general information and entertainment only.  The UK Health Radio Network does not recommend, endorse, or object to the views, products or topics expressed or discussed by show hosts or their guests, authors and interviewees.  We suggest you always consult with your own professional – personal, medical, financial or legal advisor. So please do not delay or disregard any professional – personal, medical, financial or legal advice received due to something you have heard or read on the UK Health Radio Network.

Episode 19 - Jessica, Susanna and Dr. Zoe share the questions they were once afraid to ask as caregivers - and the answers they wish they'd heard sooner.Disclaimer: Please note that all information and content on the UK Health Radio Network, all its radio broadcasts and podcasts are provided by the authors, producers, presenters and companies themselves and is only intended as additional information to your general knowledge. As a service to our listeners/readers our programs/content are for general information and entertainment only.  The UK Health Radio Network does not recommend, endorse, or object to the views, products or topics expressed or discussed by show hosts or their guests, authors and interviewees.  We suggest you always consult with your own professional – personal, medical, financial or legal advisor. So please do not delay or disregard any professional – personal, medical, financial or legal advice received due to something you have heard or read on the UK Health Radio Network.

Episode 18 - Laurie Magulac joins Jessica and Susanna to discuss caregiving, poverty, public assistance, advocacy and finding support for families.Disclaimer: Please note that all information and content on the UK Health Radio Network, all its radio broadcasts and podcasts are provided by the authors, producers, presenters and companies themselves and is only intended as additional information to your general knowledge. As a service to our listeners/readers our programs/content are for general information and entertainment only.  The UK Health Radio Network does not recommend, endorse, or object to the views, products or topics expressed or discussed by show hosts or their guests, authors and interviewees.  We suggest you always consult with your own professional – personal, medical, financial or legal advisor. So please do not delay or disregard any professional – personal, medical, financial or legal advice received due to something you have heard or read on the UK Health Radio Network.

Episode 18 - Brave - 2026-05-12 - Jessica and Dr. Zoe discuss Suddenly Brave Together and how parents move through diagnosis, grief and uncertainty with resilience and community support.Disclaimer: Please note that all information and content on the UK Health Radio Network, all its radio broadcasts and podcasts are provided by the authors, producers, presenters and companies themselves and is only intended as additional information to your general knowledge. As a service to our listeners/readers our programs/content are for general information and entertainment only.  The UK Health Radio Network does not recommend, endorse, or object to the views, products or topics expressed or discussed by show hosts or their guests, authors and interviewees.  We suggest you always consult with your own professional – personal, medical, financial or legal advisor. So please do not delay or disregard any professional – personal, medical, financial or legal advice received due to something you have heard or read on the UK Health Radio Network.

Episode 17 - Wendy Ernzen shares her journey raising a daughter with autism and the power of community, compassion and caregiver support.Disclaimer: Please note that all information and content on the UK Health Radio Network, all its radio broadcasts and podcasts are provided by the authors, producers, presenters and companies themselves and is only intended as additional information to your general knowledge. As a service to our listeners/readers our programs/content are for general information and entertainment only.  The UK Health Radio Network does not recommend, endorse, or object to the views, products or topics expressed or discussed by show hosts or their guests, authors and interviewees.  We suggest you always consult with your own professional – personal, medical, financial or legal advisor. So please do not delay or disregard any professional – personal, medical, financial or legal advice received due to something you have heard or read on the UK Health Radio Network.

Hello Brave Friends!In this special episode, hosts Jessica Patay and Dr. Zoe come together for a deeply personal and heartfelt conversation centered around Suddenly Brave Together, the book co-authored by Jessica Patay, Dr. Zoe, and Kari Morin.This episode explores the emotional journey so many parents experience when life changes unexpectedly—whether through a diagnosis, a medical challenge, or a shift in what we imagined for our families. Jessica shares the inspiration behind the book and the meaning of becoming “suddenly brave”—that moment when you are called to show up in ways you never anticipated.Together, Jessica and Zoe reflect on the complexity of navigating grief, uncertainty, and resilience, while also making space for hope, healing, and connection. They discuss the importance of moving away from a “fix-it” mindset and instead embracing the present moment, honoring both the heartbreak and the beauty that can coexist in this journey.This conversation also highlights the power of community. Through shared stories and vulnerability, parents can find connection, validation, and the reminder that they are not alone. Whether you are at the beginning of your journey or years into it, this episode offers compassion, perspective, and encouragement.You are not broken—you are becoming.Find more about Kari Morin here. Find more about We Are Brave Together's second book Suddenly Brave Together here. Find more about We Are Brave Together's first book Becoming Brave Together here. Find more information about Licensed Psychotherapist, Dr. Zoe Shaw here. Find Dr. Zoe's book, Stronger in the Difficult Places: Heal Your Relationship with Yourself by Untangling Complex Shame Brave Together is the podcast for We are Brave Together, a not-for-profit organization based in the USA. The heart of We Are Brave Together is to strengthen, encourage, inspire and validate all moms of children with disabilities and other needs in their unique journeys. JOIN the international community of We Are Brave Together here. Donate to support all of We Are Brave Together's programs and offerings here. Can't get enough of the Brave Together Podcast? Follow us on Instagram , Facebook and Youtube. Feel free to contact Jessica Patay via email: jpatay@wearebravetogether.org If you have any topic requests or if you would like to share a story, leave us a message here.Please leave a review and rating today! We thank you in advance!Disclaimer

Episode 16 - Jessica, Susanna and Zoe talk about when one parent denies a child's diagnosis and how couples can navigate grief, support and next steps.Disclaimer: Please note that all information and content on the UK Health Radio Network, all its radio broadcasts and podcasts are provided by the authors, producers, presenters and companies themselves and is only intended as additional information to your general knowledge. As a service to our listeners/readers our programs/content are for general information and entertainment only.  The UK Health Radio Network does not recommend, endorse, or object to the views, products or topics expressed or discussed by show hosts or their guests, authors and interviewees.  We suggest you always consult with your own professional – personal, medical, financial or legal advisor. So please do not delay or disregard any professional – personal, medical, financial or legal advice received due to something you have heard or read on the UK Health Radio Network.

Guilt is one of the most misunderstood emotional experiences women carry, and one of the most controlling. In this conversation, I sit down with Dr. Jennifer Reid, author of Guilt-Free, to unpack why so many women still feel guilt in this day and age… even when they're doing everything "right." We explore how guilt gets internalized, how it shapes the way you show up in your relationships, and why it can feel so difficult to release- even when you know it's not serving you. This episode goes deeper than "just let it go." We talk about what guilt actually is, how it's different from shame, and what it looks like to begin releasing it in a way that leads to real emotional freedom. If you've ever felt responsible for other people's feelings, struggled to make decisions without second-guessing yourself, or carried a lingering sense that you've done something wrong… this conversation will meet you there. In This Episode, We Discuss: What guilt actually is—and why so many women carry it chronically Why guilt persists, even in high-achieving, self-aware women The difference between guilt and shame (and why that distinction matters) How guilt quietly drives overgiving, people-pleasing, and self-abandonment Why "just stop feeling guilty" doesn't work Practical ways to begin releasing guilt and reconnecting to your truth   Key Takeaway: Guilt isn't always a signal that you've done something wrong. Sometimes, it's a learned response that's keeping you disconnected from yourself. Learning to discern the difference is where your freedom begins. About Jennifer Dr. Jennifer Reid is a board-certified psychiatrist, award-winning educator, and author of Guilt Free: Reclaiming Your Life from Unreasonable Expectations. Trained at Columbia University and UCLA, she has held clinical faculty positions at the University of Pennsylvania and Cooper Hospital. She is the creator and host of A Mind of Her Own podcast and Substack, where she shares clear, compassionate insights on mental health and treatment. Her work has been featured in The New York Times, The Guardian, and Psychology Today, and her clinical practice focuses on helping individuals release the burden of unreasonable expectations and reclaim what truly matters. Website: https://www.jenniferreidmd.com/ Substack: https://substack.com/@amindofherown Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jenreidmd/ Book: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/763503/guilt-free-by-jennifer-reid-md/   Resources & Next Steps: Connect with me on Instagram @drzoeshaw for daily encouragement. Subscribe to my newsletter for more conversations on healing, boundaries, and healthy love. Join the waitlist for Stronger Woman Intensive: here Buy my book Stronger In The Difficult Places: here Free Downloads: Download the Steps to Healing from Complex Shame™ PDF: here Get the First Chapter of Stronger in the Difficult Places: here Connect with me: Dr. Zoe Shaw on Instagram Dr. Zoe Shaw on Facebook   Subscribe & Review If this episode resonated with you, make sure to follow Stronger in the Difficult Places and leave a review. It helps more women find this work- and begin their own healing.  

Episode 15 - Dr. Melisa Moore shares science-backed strategies to help neurodivergent kids and teens sleep better, with practical tips and compassionate guidance for parents.Disclaimer: Please note that all information and content on the UK Health Radio Network, all its radio broadcasts and podcasts are provided by the authors, producers, presenters and companies themselves and is only intended as additional information to your general knowledge. As a service to our listeners/readers our programs/content are for general information and entertainment only.  The UK Health Radio Network does not recommend, endorse, or object to the views, products or topics expressed or discussed by show hosts or their guests, authors and interviewees.  We suggest you always consult with your own professional – personal, medical, financial or legal advisor. So please do not delay or disregard any professional – personal, medical, financial or legal advice received due to something you have heard or read on the UK Health Radio Network.

Hello Brave Friends! This is an Ask Us Anything episode in which YOU, the listener, get to write or call in and, you guessed it, ask us anything.In this Ask Us Anything episode, #253, we're responding to the question many parents quietly carry:“Hi Brave Together Podcast--What do you do when your partner is in denial about your child's needs?”In this conversation, Jessica Patay, Susanna Peace Lovell, and Dr. Zoe Shaw explore the emotional complexity that can arise when parents process a child's diagnosis differently.The hosts discuss how denial is often rooted in grief, fear, overwhelm, shame, or uncertainty—not a lack of love. They talk about how one parent may be ready to seek services, ask questions, and move into action, while the other may still be struggling to accept what is happening. These different coping styles can create tension, loneliness, resentment, and conflict within a relationship.Jessica, Susanna, and Zoe share personal insight and practical strategies for navigating this difficult dynamic with compassion and resilience. They discuss the importance of communication, empathy, timing, and curiosity over judgment. They also emphasize that support groups, therapy, family counseling, and community connection can be life-changing resources for couples feeling stuck.The conversation also touches on cultural stigma around diagnoses, fears about labels, sibling dynamics, and the importance of advocating for a child's needs even when parents are not on the same page. The hosts remind listeners that it is okay to have needs, ask for help, and seek support for yourself while your partner works through their own process.This episode is a powerful reminder that parents do not have to process things at the same pace to still move forward together.Keep the questions coming—we're here to support you. Whether you're parenting a child with complex medical, developmental, or mental health needs, or supporting someone who is, we would love to hear from you. We see you and we love you.Find more information about Licensed Psychotherapist, Dr. Zoe Shaw here. Find Dr. Zoe's book, Stronger in the Difficult Places: Heal Your Relationship with Yourself by Untangling Complex Shame Brave Together is the podcast for We are Brave Together, a not-for-profit organization based in the USA. The heart of We Are Brave Together is to strengthen, encourage, inspire and validate all moms of children with disabilities and other needs in their unique journeys. JOIN the international community of We Are Brave Together here. Donate to support all of We Are Brave Together's programs and offerings here. Can't get enough of the Brave Together Podcast? Follow us on Instagram , Facebook and Youtube. Feel free to contact Jessica Patay via email: jpatay@wearebravetogether.org If you have any topic requests or if you would like to share a story, leave us a message here.Please leave a review and rating today! We thank you in advance!Disclaimer

Letting go is one of the most misunderstood decisions we face in relationships. If you've ever stayed longer than you should have… Tried harder than felt sustainable… Or questioned whether walking away means you've failed- This episode is for you. In this conversation, Dr. Zoe unpacks the powerful difference between giving up and letting go, and why so many high-capacity, deeply loving women struggle to tell the difference. Through the lens of Complex Shame, you'll begin to understand why letting go can feel like failure- even when it's actually the most self-honoring choice you can make. Because sometimes what we call "not giving up"… Is actually self-abandonment. And sometimes letting go… Is the very thing that brings you back to yourself. In This Episode, You'll Learn: The critical difference between giving up and letting go Why women who love deeply often struggle to release unhealthy dynamics How Complex Shame keeps you stuck in over-functioning and self-doubt The subtle ways you may be abandoning yourself in the name of love What it actually looks like to let go without losing your integrity How to recognize when you've moved past clarity—but are still holding on Practical steps to begin releasing what you cannot fix or control Key Takeaway Letting go is not failure. It's the end of abandoning yourself in the name of love. A Few Questions to Reflect On: Where in my life am I holding on out of fear—not truth? Am I trying to fix something that isn't mine to fix? What would it look like to honor my limits here? Where might I be confusing loyalty with self-abandonment? Your Next Step If this episode stirred something in you, start here: Notice where you are over-functioning Get honest about what is actually happening—not what you hope could be And gently begin to stop agreeing with the voice of shame Work With Dr. Zoe If you're ready to untangle Complex Shame and build healthier, more aligned relationships: Visit drzoeshaw.com to explore resources, coaching, and upcoming programs.   Resources & Next Steps: Connect with me on Instagram @drzoeshaw for daily encouragement. Subscribe to my newsletter for more conversations on healing, boundaries, and healthy love. Join the waitlist for Stronger Woman Intensive: here Buy my book Stronger In The Difficult Places: here Free Downloads: Download the Steps to Healing from Complex Shame™ PDF: here Get the First Chapter of Stronger in the Difficult Places: here Connect with me: Dr. Zoe Shaw on Instagram Dr. Zoe Shaw on Facebook   Subscribe & Review If this episode resonated with you, make sure to follow Stronger in the Difficult Places and leave a review. It helps more women find this work- and begin their own healing.

Episode 14 - Jessica and Susanna talk with Jennifer Iannuzzi about caregiving through aggression, guilt, stigma and building support systems.Disclaimer: Please note that all information and content on the UK Health Radio Network, all its radio broadcasts and podcasts are provided by the authors, producers, presenters and companies themselves and is only intended as additional information to your general knowledge. As a service to our listeners/readers our programs/content are for general information and entertainment only.  The UK Health Radio Network does not recommend, endorse, or object to the views, products or topics expressed or discussed by show hosts or their guests, authors and interviewees.  We suggest you always consult with your own professional – personal, medical, financial or legal advisor. So please do not delay or disregard any professional – personal, medical, financial or legal advice received due to something you have heard or read on the UK Health Radio Network.

Episode 13 - Jessica and Susanna talk with Dr. Jenn Rapkin about OCD, intrusive thoughts and why Exposure and Response Prevention is the gold standard treatment.Disclaimer: Please note that all information and content on the UK Health Radio Network, all its radio broadcasts and podcasts are provided by the authors, producers, presenters and companies themselves and is only intended as additional information to your general knowledge. As a service to our listeners/readers our programs/content are for general information and entertainment only.  The UK Health Radio Network does not recommend, endorse, or object to the views, products or topics expressed or discussed by show hosts or their guests, authors and interviewees.  We suggest you always consult with your own professional – personal, medical, financial or legal advisor. So please do not delay or disregard any professional – personal, medical, financial or legal advice received due to something you have heard or read on the UK Health Radio Network.

Episode 12 -  ‘Understanding the Sibling Experience in Special Needs Families' with hosts Susanna Peace Lovell, Jessica Patay and Dr. Zoe Shaw.Disclaimer: Please note that all information and content on the UK Health Radio Network, all its radio broadcasts and podcasts are provided by the authors, producers, presenters and companies themselves and is only intended as additional information to your general knowledge. As a service to our listeners/readers our programs/content are for general information and entertainment only.  The UK Health Radio Network does not recommend, endorse, or object to the views, products or topics expressed or discussed by show hosts or their guests, authors and interviewees.  We suggest you always consult with your own professional – personal, medical, financial or legal advisor. So please do not delay or disregard any professional – personal, medical, financial or legal advice received due to something you have heard or read on the UK Health Radio Network.

Episode 11 - Susanna and Jessica talk with Kirk Martin about calm leadership, strong-willed kids, parental anxiety and why self-control matters most.Disclaimer: Please note that all information and content on the UK Health Radio Network, all its radio broadcasts and podcasts are provided by the authors, producers, presenters and companies themselves and is only intended as additional information to your general knowledge. As a service to our listeners/readers our programs/content are for general information and entertainment only.  The UK Health Radio Network does not recommend, endorse, or object to the views, products or topics expressed or discussed by show hosts or their guests, authors and interviewees.  We suggest you always consult with your own professional – personal, medical, financial or legal advisor. So please do not delay or disregard any professional – personal, medical, financial or legal advice received due to something you have heard or read on the UK Health Radio Network.

Hello Brave Friends! This is an Ask Us Anything episode, #249, where you, the listener, get to write in and ask us anything.In this episode, we're responding to the question:“Hi there, I guess I am looking for more info on siblings in a special needs family. Can you shed light or talk about how they battle their own resentment, depression, anxiety or PTSD? THX.”In this conversation, Jessica Patay, Dr. Zoe Shaw, and Susanna Peace Lovell come together to explore a deeply important and often under-discussed topic in caregiving families: the sibling experience.The hosts unpack the complex emotional and psychological dynamics that can arise when one child in the family has additional needs. They discuss how siblings may experience a wide range of emotions—including love, pride, resentment, protectiveness, anxiety, and even feelings of invisibility—and why it's so important to create space for all of those feelings without judgment.Jessica, Zoe, and Susanna also explore the different roles siblings can take on within the family system, and how these roles can shape identity, relationships, and mental health over time. They speak directly to the question of resentment, depression, and anxiety, emphasizing that these responses are valid and deserve attention, support, and care.The conversation offers practical strategies for parents, including the importance of validating siblings' experiences, being mindful of how praise is given, and creating intentional one-on-one time and support systems. The hosts also highlight the value of therapy and open communication in helping families navigate these dynamics with compassion and honesty.Ultimately, this episode is a reminder that sibling relationships are deeply meaningful—and that supporting siblings is an essential part of caring for the whole family.Find more information about Licensed Psychotherapist, Dr. Zoe Shaw here. Find Dr. Zoe's book, Stronger in the Difficult Places: Heal Your Relationship with Yourself by Untangling Complex Shame Brave Together is the podcast for We are Brave Together, a not-for-profit organization based in the USA. The heart of We Are Brave Together is to strengthen, encourage, inspire and validate all moms of children with disabilities and other needs in their unique journeys. JOIN the international community of We Are Brave Together here. Donate to support all of We Are Brave Together's programs and offerings here. Can't get enough of the Brave Together Podcast? Follow us on Instagram , Facebook and Youtube. Feel free to contact Jessica Patay via email: jpatay@wearebravetogether.org If you have any topic requests or if you would like to share a story, leave us a message here.Please leave a review and rating today! We thank you in advance!Disclaimer

Episode 10 - Dr. Zoe opens up about complex shame in caregiving, the phantom critic and finding healing through self-acceptance and grace.Disclaimer: Please note that all information and content on the UK Health Radio Network, all its radio broadcasts and podcasts are provided by the authors, producers, presenters and companies themselves and is only intended as additional information to your general knowledge. As a service to our listeners/readers our programs/content are for general information and entertainment only.  The UK Health Radio Network does not recommend, endorse, or object to the views, products or topics expressed or discussed by show hosts or their guests, authors and interviewees.  We suggest you always consult with your own professional – personal, medical, financial or legal advisor. So please do not delay or disregard any professional – personal, medical, financial or legal advice received due to something you have heard or read on the UK Health Radio Network.

Episode 9 - Therapist Monica Fyfe shares how therapy for neurodivergent youth is evolving, from compassionate ABA to ACT and strengths-based support.Disclaimer: Please note that all information and content on the UK Health Radio Network, all its radio broadcasts and podcasts are provided by the authors, producers, presenters and companies themselves and is only intended as additional information to your general knowledge. As a service to our listeners/readers our programs/content are for general information and entertainment only.  The UK Health Radio Network does not recommend, endorse, or object to the views, products or topics expressed or discussed by show hosts or their guests, authors and interviewees.  We suggest you always consult with your own professional – personal, medical, financial or legal advisor. So please do not delay or disregard any professional – personal, medical, financial or legal advice received due to something you have heard or read on the UK Health Radio Network.

Hello Brave Friends! Welcome to today's story episode, #247. These are true stories from a moment in the life of a caregiving parent. We hear a crafted story, and then have a conversation that goes deeper into the experience and themes shared.In this episode of the Brave Together Podcast, Dr. Zoe Shaw shares her personal journey as a writer, therapist, and caregiver, exploring the powerful and often hidden impact of shame. Drawing from her own life and the insights that shaped her book, Stronger in the Difficult Places, Zoe unpacks the difference between simple guilt and complex shame—explaining how complex shame attaches itself to identity and can quietly influence how caregivers see themselves.Zoe reflects on the “phantom critic” that so many parents carry, the cultural and societal pressures that intensify feelings of inadequacy, and how writing became her therapy and path toward healing. She offers practical insight into how shame manifests in caregiving, why guilt can be a healthy, adaptive emotion, and how forgiveness—“giving up all hope of a better past”—can open the door to freedom and self-acceptance.In the conversation that follows, hosts Jessica Patay and Susanna Peace Lovell explore how shame shows up in the lives of caregivers, the ripple effects it has on families, and how parents can begin to untangle these deeply rooted beliefs. Together, they remind listeners that good-enough parents are more than enough for a child to thrive.Find more information about Licensed Psychotherapist, Dr. Zoe Shaw here. Find Dr. Zoe's book, Stronger in the Difficult Places: Heal Your Relationship with Yourself by Untangling Complex Shame here.Find more information about Life Coach, Susanna Peace Lovell here.Find Susanna's book, Your True Self is Enough Brave Together is the podcast for We are Brave Together, a not-for-profit organization based in the USA. The heart of We Are Brave Together is to strengthen, encourage, inspire and validate all moms of children with disabilities and other needs in their unique journeys. JOIN the international community of We Are Brave Together here. Donate to support all of We Are Brave Together's programs and offerings here. Can't get enough of the Brave Together Podcast? Follow us on Instagram , Facebook and Youtube. Feel free to contact Jessica Patay via email: jpatay@wearebravetogether.org If you have any topic requests or if you would like to share a story, leave us a message here. Please leave a review and rating today! We thank you in advance! Disclaimer

Episode 8 - Not an empty nester!! Dr. Zoe, Susanna and Jessica talk envy, grief and finding pockets of joy when caregiving doesn't end.Disclaimer: Please note that all information and content on the UK Health Radio Network, all its radio broadcasts and podcasts are provided by the authors, producers, presenters and companies themselves and is only intended as additional information to your general knowledge. As a service to our listeners/readers our programs/content are for general information and entertainment only.  The UK Health Radio Network does not recommend, endorse, or object to the views, products or topics expressed or discussed by show hosts or their guests, authors and interviewees.  We suggest you always consult with your own professional – personal, medical, financial or legal advisor. So please do not delay or disregard any professional – personal, medical, financial or legal advice received due to something you have heard or read on the UK Health Radio Network.

Hello Brave Friends!In this Expert episode, hosts Jessica Patay and Susanna Peace Lovell sit down with therapist and behavior analyst Monica Fyfe, LMFT, BCBA, to explore the evolving landscape of therapy for neurodivergent youth.Monica brings a unique perspective to her work, blending her experience as a licensed marriage and family therapist with her training as a Board Certified Behavior Analyst. In this thoughtful conversation, she explains how therapy for neurodivergent children has shifted in recent years toward more compassionate, individualized, and strengths-based approaches.Together, they discuss how modern therapeutic practices—including updated approaches to Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)—are increasingly centered on dignity, consent, and the unique needs of each child. Monica also shares how integrating different therapeutic frameworks, including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), can help children and teens better understand their emotions, identify their values, and build confidence navigating the world.The conversation also explores the powerful role of language in shaping how families understand diagnoses and neurodiversity. Monica encourages parents to focus less on labels and more on specific goals and supports that help their children thrive. She also discusses the importance of helping neurodivergent youth build “social navigation” skills that allow them to create meaningful connections and engage with their communities.Finally, Monica introduces her children's book series, which uses storytelling and bibliotherapy to introduce therapeutic concepts in accessible, engaging ways for kids and families.This episode is full of practical insight and reassurance for parents seeking thoughtful, respectful, and effective support for their neurodivergent children.Find more about Monica Fyfe's children's series Welcome to Petsville here.Find more information about Licensed Psychotherapist, Dr. Zoe Shaw here. Find Dr. Zoe's book, Stronger in the Difficult Places: Heal Your Relationship with Yourself by Untangling Complex Shame Brave Together is the podcast for We are Brave Together, a not-for-profit organization based in the USA. The heart of We Are Brave Together is to strengthen, encourage, inspire and validate all moms of children with disabilities and other needs in their unique journeys. JOIN the international community of We Are Brave Together here. Donate to support all of We Are Brave Together's programs and offerings here. Can't get enough of the Brave Together Podcast? Follow us on Instagram , Facebook and Youtube. Feel free to contact Jessica Patay via email: jpatay@wearebravetogether.org If you have any topic requests or if you would like to share a story, leave us a message here. Please leave a review and rating today! We thank you in advance! Disclaimer

Dr. Zoe Shaw is a licensed psychotherapist, author, speaker, podcast host, relationships coach and fitness lover. She is passionate about helping women who struggle in difficult relationships, especially that sometimes difficult relationship with themselves, overcome complex shame and co-dependency. After 15 years in traditional psychotherapy practice, Dr. Zoe jumped off the couch and now helps women using a different modality with a mix of virtual therapy, coaching services and programs, through a lens of psychology, faith and a dash of feminism.Dr. Zoe is the author of the Ask Dr. Zoe Column in the Grit and Grace Project women's magazine and the books, A Year Of Self Care and Stronger In The Difficult Places released by Penguin Randomhouse Waterbrook. She has been featured in the OWN documentary series UNLOCKED, abd published in Oprahmag.com, Recovery Today magazine, Forbes and Today.com. She writes about helping women overcome shame and co-dependency. You can find her in the media on Instagram: @Drzoeshaw and in most social places at the handle DrZoeShaw.https://drzoeshaw.comMusic by Corey Quinn

Episode 7 - Susanna and Jessica talk with Mary Van Geffen about parenting strong-willed ‘spicy' kids with compassion and calm leadership.Disclaimer: Please note that all information and content on the UK Health Radio Network, all its radio broadcasts and podcasts are provided by the authors, producers, presenters and companies themselves and is only intended as additional information to your general knowledge. As a service to our listeners/readers our programs/content are for general information and entertainment only.  The UK Health Radio Network does not recommend, endorse, or object to the views, products or topics expressed or discussed by show hosts or their guests, authors and interviewees.  We suggest you always consult with your own professional – personal, medical, financial or legal advisor. So please do not delay or disregard any professional – personal, medical, financial or legal advice received due to something you have heard or read on the UK Health Radio Network.

Hello Brave Friends! This is an Ask Us Anything episode in which YOU, the listener, get to write or call in and, you guessed it, ask us anything.In this Ask Us Anything episode, #245, we're responding to the question:“Hi Dr. Zoe, Susanna and Jessica, I was wondering if you could shed light on us parents who will NOT BE EMPTY-NESTERS? I am struggling right now because I see friends who are so free and spontaneous and honestly, I am envious. As you guys always say, the grief buttons are getting pushed again. Thanks.”In this conversation, Susanna Peace Lovell, Dr. Zoe Shaw, and Jessica Patay talk honestly about what it means to be a “forever nester”—a caregiver who may never experience the traditional empty nest. They define what empty nest and forever nest can look like, while also acknowledging that it's not always a simple either/or; there are many unknowns, in-between seasons, and times when adult children launch and then return home.Together, they name the complicated mix of emotions that arise when friends are traveling, retiring, or enjoying spontaneous freedom, while caregiving parents are still managing high-support needs, sleep deprivation, food vigilance, and constant responsibility. Jessica and Zoe share candidly about life with children who have Prader-Willi syndrome and the relentless focus on food and safety; Susanna reflects on lifelong rigidity, shame, and a longing to be more spontaneous. They speak to grief as cyclical, normal, and deeply human—especially when future dreams like travel, retirement, or hands-on grandparenting feel uncertain or out of reach.The hosts also offer hope and reframes: the power of naming longings out loud, seeking pockets of “empty nest cosplay” (brief moments of freedom and joy), practicing radical acceptance of the life you're living, and being intentional about creating memories and glimmers of joy right now. They remind listeners that wanting freedom, rest, and space is not selfish—it's human—and encourage caregivers to seek support when resentment or grief feels overwhelming.Keep the questions coming—we're here to support you. Whether you're a parent to a child with complex medical, developmental, or mental health needs, or someone supporting a caregiving family, we would love to hear from you. We see you, and we love you.Leave us a message here.Find more information about LicBrave Together is the podcast for We are Brave Together, a not-for-profit organization based in the USA. The heart of We Are Brave Together is to strengthen, encourage, inspire and validate all moms of children with disabilities and other needs in their unique journeys. JOIN the international community of We Are Brave Together here. Donate to support all of We Are Brave Together's programs and offerings here. Can't get enough of the Brave Together Podcast? Follow us on Instagram , Facebook and Youtube. Feel free to contact Jessica Patay via email: jpatay@wearebravetogether.org If you have any topic requests or if you would like to share a story, leave us a message here. Please leave a review and rating today! We thank you in advance! Disclaimer

Episode 6 - Jessica and Susanna are joined by Moms Talk Autism to reflect on parenting, grief and how sharing stories helps caregivers feel less alone.Disclaimer: Please note that all information and content on the UK Health Radio Network, all its radio broadcasts and podcasts are provided by the authors, producers, presenters and companies themselves and is only intended as additional information to your general knowledge. As a service to our listeners/readers our programs/content are for general information and entertainment only.  The UK Health Radio Network does not recommend, endorse, or object to the views, products or topics expressed or discussed by show hosts or their guests, authors and interviewees.  We suggest you always consult with your own professional – personal, medical, financial or legal advisor. So please do not delay or disregard any professional – personal, medical, financial or legal advice received due to something you have heard or read on the UK Health Radio Network.

Episode 5 - Jessica and Susanna talk with Tanya Valentin about burnout in neurodivergent children and how families can better support overwhelmed kids and parents.Disclaimer: Please note that all information and content on the UK Health Radio Network, all its radio broadcasts and podcasts are provided by the authors, producers, presenters and companies themselves and is only intended as additional information to your general knowledge. As a service to our listeners/readers our programs/content are for general information and entertainment only.  The UK Health Radio Network does not recommend, endorse, or object to the views, products or topics expressed or discussed by show hosts or their guests, authors and interviewees.  We suggest you always consult with your own professional – personal, medical, financial or legal advisor. So please do not delay or disregard any professional – personal, medical, financial or legal advice received due to something you have heard or read on the UK Health Radio Network.

Episode 4 - How do you decide whether to grow your family as a caregiver! Jessica, Susanna and Dr. Zoe talk through this tender, complex question.Disclaimer: Please note that all information and content on the UK Health Radio Network, all its radio broadcasts and podcasts are provided by the authors, producers, presenters and companies themselves and is only intended as additional information to your general knowledge. As a service to our listeners/readers our programs/content are for general information and entertainment only.  The UK Health Radio Network does not recommend, endorse, or object to the views, products or topics expressed or discussed by show hosts or their guests, authors and interviewees.  We suggest you always consult with your own professional – personal, medical, financial or legal advisor. So please do not delay or disregard any professional – personal, medical, financial or legal advice received due to something you have heard or read on the UK Health Radio Network.

Hello Brave Friends! Welcome to today's expert episode, #242, featuring Tanya Valentin, a neuro-affirming family coach, author and podcast host, who specializes in burnout in Autistic and ADHD children.These expert episodes are conversations with professionals whose work directly supports caregiving parents. In this episode, Tanya joins hosts Jessica Patay and Susanna Peace Lovell for a compassionate and eye-opening conversation about childhood burnout, nervous-system safety, and how deeply children's overwhelm impacts the entire family.Together, they explore the ways burnout shows up in neurodivergent children, why it's often misunderstood or misidentified, and what parents can look for when their child is chronically overwhelmed. Tanya shares practical tools and guidance to help children feel safer and more supported, while also addressing that parents of children in burnout need community and support too.Find out more about Tanya Valentin and her parent membership community, From Burnout to Balance, here.Find Tanya Valentin's book, When She Wakes, She Will Move Mountains: 5 Steps to Reconnecting With Your Wild, Authentic, Inner Queen here.Leave us a message here.Find more information about Licensed Psychotherapist, Dr. Zoe Shaw here. Find more information about Life Coach, Susanna Peace Lovell here.Find Susanna's book, Your True Self is Enough here.Find our first book from We Are Brave Together here.Find FULL episodes and clips of our podcast on Youtube here.Brave Together Podcast is a resource produced by We Are Brave Together, a global nonprofit that creates community for moms raising children with disabilities, neurodivergence, or complex medical and mental health conditions. The heart of We Are Brave Together is to preserve and protect the mental health of caregiving moms everywhere. JOIN the international community of We Are Brave Together here. Donate to our Retreats and Respite Scholarships here. Can't get enough of the Brave Together Podcast? Follow us on Instagram , Facebook and Youtube. Feel free to contact Jessica Patay via email: jpatay@wearebravetogether.org If you have any topic requests or if you would like to share a story, leave us a message here. Please leave a review and rating today! We thank you in advance! Disclaimer

Episode 3 - Dr. Maya Shankar discusses navigating grief and change, which led to her podcast and book, 'The Other Side of Change'.Disclaimer: Please note that all information and content on the UK Health Radio Network, all its radio broadcasts and podcasts are provided by the authors, producers, presenters and companies themselves and is only intended as additional information to your general knowledge. As a service to our listeners/readers our programs/content are for general information and entertainment only.  The UK Health Radio Network does not recommend, endorse, or object to the views, products or topics expressed or discussed by show hosts or their guests, authors and interviewees.  We suggest you always consult with your own professional – personal, medical, financial or legal advisor. So please do not delay or disregard any professional – personal, medical, financial or legal advice received due to something you have heard or read on the UK Health Radio Network.

Hello Brave Friends!This is an Ask Us Anything episode in which YOU, the listener, get to write or call in and - yes - ask us anything!In this Ask Us Anything episode, #241, we're responding to the question: “Hi Zoe, Susanna, and Jessica. You all have been moms a long, long time, and I am a newer mom. My first child, now age 3, was born with a disability…and I just can't decide if I should have more kids or not. How did you decide?”In this conversation, Jessica Patay, Susanna Peace Lovell, and Dr. Zoe Shaw respond with honesty, compassion, and deep respect for how complex this decision can be. They talk about the emotional weight of choice through the lens of their own experience, the role of grief and hope, and how different phases of parenting call for different questions. Rather than offering a one-size-fits-all answer, they explore how to listen to your values, your capacity, and your support system- while giving yourself permission to take your time and trust that there is no “right” answer, only the one that is right for you and your family.Keep the questions coming—we're here to support you. Whether you're a newer parent navigating big decisions, a parent to a child with complex medical or mental health needs, or someone supporting a caregiving family, we would love to hear from you. We see you, and we love you.Leave us a message here.Find more information about Licensed Psychotherapist, Dr. Zoe Shaw here. Find Dr. Zoe's book, Stronger in the Difficult Places: Heal Your Relationship with Yourself by Untangling Complex Shame here.Find more information about Life Coach, Susanna Peace Lovell here.Find Susanna's book, Your True Self is Enough Brave Together Podcast is a resource produced by We Are Brave Together, a global nonprofit that creates community for moms raising children with disabilities, neurodivergence, or complex medical and mental health conditions. The heart of We Are Brave Together is to preserve and protect the mental health of caregiving moms everywhere. JOIN the international community of We Are Brave Together here. Donate to our Retreats and Respite Scholarships here. Can't get enough of the Brave Together Podcast? Follow us on Instagram , Facebook and Youtube. Feel free to contact Jessica Patay via email: jpatay@wearebravetogether.org If you have any topic requests or if you would like to share a story, leave us a message here. Please leave a review and rating today! We thank you in advance! Disclaimer

Episode 2 - On this episode of Brave Together, guest Kristina Kuzmič shares her journey navigating guilt as a parent while dealing with her son's mental health struggles.Disclaimer: Please note that all information and content on the UK Health Radio Network, all its radio broadcasts and podcasts are provided by the authors, producers, presenters and companies themselves and is only intended as additional information to your general knowledge. As a service to our listeners/readers our programs/content are for general information and entertainment only.  The UK Health Radio Network does not recommend, endorse, or object to the views, products or topics expressed or discussed by show hosts or their guests, authors and interviewees.  We suggest you always consult with your own professional – personal, medical, financial or legal advisor. So please do not delay or disregard any professional – personal, medical, financial or legal advice received due to something you have heard or read on the UK Health Radio Network.

Episode 1 - How do caregiving parents create work/life balance! Jessica, Susanna and Dr. Zoe share honest guidance in this Ask Us Anything episode.Disclaimer: Please note that all information and content on the UK Health Radio Network, all its radio broadcasts and podcasts are provided by the authors, producers, presenters and companies themselves and is only intended as additional information to your general knowledge. As a service to our listeners/readers our programs/content are for general information and entertainment only.  The UK Health Radio Network does not recommend, endorse, or object to the views, products or topics expressed or discussed by show hosts or their guests, authors and interviewees.  We suggest you always consult with your own professional – personal, medical, financial or legal advisor. So please do not delay or disregard any professional – personal, medical, financial or legal advice received due to something you have heard or read on the UK Health Radio Network.

This is an Ask Us Anything episode in which YOU, the listener, get to write or call in and- yes- ask us anything!In this Ask Us Anything episode, #237, we're responding to the question: “Hi Brave Together Podcast, I want to start off the new year with more work/life balance. I feel swamped with juggling it all and I need your help. How do you create balance?”In this conversation, Jessica Patay, Susanna Peace Lovell, and Dr. Zoe Shaw talk honestly about the myth of perfect balance and why it so often feels impossible for caregiving parents. They explore what balance can realistically look like in different seasons of life, how to recognize when you're overwhelmed, and how to make intentional choices that protect your energy, mental health, and relationships. Together, they share compassionate reframes, practical ideas, and encouragement for starting the new year with more grace and less pressure.Keep the questions coming—we're here to support you! Whether you're a parent caring for a child with complex medical or mental health needs, or someone looking to better support a caregiving parent in your life, we would love to hear from you. We see you, and we love you.Leave us a message here.Find more information about Licensed Psychotherapist, Dr. Zoe Shaw here. Find Dr. Zoe's book, Stronger in the Difficult Places: Heal Your Relationship with Yourself by Untangling Complex Shame here.Find more information about Life Coach, Susanna Peace Lovell here.Find Susanna's book, Your True Self is Enough Brave Together Podcast is a resource produced by We Are Brave Together, a global nonprofit that creates community for moms raising children with disabilities, neurodivergence, or complex medical and mental health conditions. The heart of We Are Brave Together is to preserve and protect the mental health of caregiving moms everywhere. JOIN the international community of We Are Brave Together here. Donate to our Retreats and Respite Scholarships here. Can't get enough of the Brave Together Podcast? Follow us on Instagram , Facebook and Youtube. Feel free to contact Jessica Patay via email: jpatay@wearebravetogether.org If you have any topic requests or if you would like to share a story, leave us a message here. Please leave a review and rating today! We thank you in advance! Disclaimer

Hello Brave Friends! This is a Winter Re-Run of one of our favorite Ask Us Anything episodes from Seasons 5 and 6. Call in to our SpeakPipe to ask YOUR questions and tune in next season, starting in January 2026, for many more.   This is an Ask Us Anything episode in which YOU, the listener, get to write or call in and, you guessed it, ASK US ANYTHING! In this episode, #165, we are discussing how to get the most out of connection circles and in general, support groups, without taking on other attendee's pain. In this community we are ALREADY dealing with our own tough feelings when we step into a group sharing environment and as Dr. Zoe Shaw says, in this episode, “we're wired for protection not connection” so dealing with other people's emotions on top of our own can feel daunting. BUT it doesn't have to feel that way and the community and sisterhood that comes with sharing and holding space for those emotions is so worth facing your own. There are so many wisdom gems, AHA moments and tools in this episode for helping us deconstruct the emotions we feel when in the presence of other people's pain. Please enjoy this important episode of Ask Us Anything. Whether you have questions as a parent to a child with complex medical or mental health needs or you're someone looking to support a care-giving parent, we would LOVE to hear from you. If you have any topic requests or if you would like to ask a question, leave us a message here.Find more information about Licensed Psychotherapist, Dr. Zoe Shaw here. Find more information about Life Coach, Susanna Peace Lovell here.Find Susanna's book, Your True Self is Enough here.Brave Together Podcast is a resource produced by We Are Brave Together, a global nonprofit that creates community for moms raising children with disabilities, neurodivergence, or complex medical and mental health conditions. The heart of We Are Brave Together is to preserve and protect the mental health of caregiving moms everywhere. JOIN the international community of We Are Brave Together here. Donate to our Retreats and Respite Scholarships here. Can't get enough of the Brave Together Podcast? Follow us on Instagram , Facebook and Youtube. Feel free to contact Jessica Patay via email: jpatay@wearebravetogether.org If you have any topic requests or if you would like to share a story, leave us a message here. Please leave a review and rating today! We thank you in advance! Disclaimer

Hi Bravies! Welcome to Season 10 of Brave Together Podcast!I'm Jessica Patay, founder of the non-profit, We Are Brave Together. Since 2017 We Are Brave Together has been a supportive community for the brave moms of children with disabilities, neurodivergence and all unique needs. Our international community includes over 4000 moms in 50 states and 30 countries. I am also a mother to three children including a son with Prader-Willi Syndrome, which is a rare genetic disorder. I am passionate about encouraging and serving caregiving moms everywhere and I'm not alone. I have two brave mom co-hosts, the vivacious author and life coach to disability families across the globe, Susanna Peace Lovell and the deeply wise author, Clinical Psychotherapist, and complex shame expert, Dr. Zoe Shaw. Together we use our exponential motherhood experiences to support, guide and lovingly witness our fellow caregiving mom audience. This season we are beyond thrilled to announce that we are now streamable on UK Health Radio. This means our beautiful community of genuine superhero moms will be growing and we have some incredible guests lined up to help celebrate. Guests like self-proclaimed ‘disabled fashion girlie' April Lockhart, Mental Health Advocate, Author and Comedian Kristina Kuzmic, and the parenting guru for navigating the spicy ones, Mary Van Geffen.So what can you expect from the podcast this season? We are offering Story episodes from moms just like you, Expert episodes on topics that impact you, Thriving Disabled Adult episodes to give you insights into the experiences of your children and Ask Us Anything episodes to answer your burning questions.We make this podcast as a lifeline for you, the caregiving parent, so please, submit stories through our website, call into our Speakpipe through the link in the show notes and leave us messages with your questions, or comment on our Instagram and Youtube posts @wearebravetogether. We'd love to hear from you and do our best to create episodes to address your questions. We are also on Youtube so come see the faces behind this podcast there. And please take a moment to rate and review our podcast so we can continue to grow and reach more brave moms. We offer you community here at Brave Together Podcast and remind you every chance we get—that you are strong, capable and definitely not alone. We see you and we love you. Welcome to SeBrave Together Podcast is a resource produced by We Are Brave Together, a global nonprofit that creates community for moms raising children with disabilities, neurodivergence, or complex medical and mental health conditions. The heart of We Are Brave Together is to preserve and protect the mental health of caregiving moms everywhere. JOIN the international community of We Are Brave Together here. Donate to our Retreats and Respite Scholarships here. Can't get enough of the Brave Together Podcast? Follow us on Instagram , Facebook and Youtube. Feel free to contact Jessica Patay via email: jpatay@wearebravetogether.org If you have any topic requests or if you would like to share a story, leave us a message here. Please leave a review and rating today! We thank you in advance! Disclaimer

What if the shame you carry isn't just from one event, but layers of experiences that typical healing approaches can't touch?Dr. Zoe Shaw reveals why some people remain trapped in patterns of shame despite outward success, and shares a revolutionary framework for healing what she calls "complex shame" from her book "Stronger in the Difficult Places: Heal Your Relationship with Yourself by Untangling Complex Shame." Learn why traditional advice about vulnerability sometimes falls short, how shame lives in your body, and practical steps to transform your relationship with yourself and others.You can find Zoe at: Website | Instagram | Episode TranscriptIf you LOVED this episode, you'll also love the conversations we had with Lori Gottlieb about understanding your emotional narratives and rewriting the stories you live by.Check out our offerings & partners: Join My New Writing Project: Awake at the WheelVisit Our Sponsor Page For Great Resources & Discount Codes Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hello Brave Friends! This is an Ask Us Anything episode in which YOU, the listener, get to write or call in and, you guessed it, ASK US ANYTHING! In this Ask Us Anything episode, #236, we are responding to the question, How do I survive the holidays without support?In this conversation, Jessica Patay, Susanna Peace Lovell, Dr. Zoe Shaw discuss the concept of overwhelm and how to manage it by entering a 'survival mode' where non-essential activities are minimized to focus on what truly matters. Keep the questions coming, we're here to support you! Whether you have questions as a parent to a child with complex medical or mental health needs or you're someone looking to support a care-giving parent, we would LOVE to hear from you. We see you and we love you! Leave us a message here.Find more information about Licensed Psychotherapist, Dr. Zoe Shaw here. Find Dr. Zoe's book, Stronger in the Difficult Places: Heal Your Relationship with Yourself by Untangling Complex Shame here.Find more information about Life Coach, Susanna Peace Lovell here.Find Susanna's book, Your True Self is Enough here.Find our first book from We Are Brave Together here.Find full episodes and clips of our podcast on Youtube here.Brave Together Podcast is a resource produced by We Are Brave Together, a global nonprofit that creates community for moms raising children with disabilities, neurodivergence, or complex medical and mental health conditions. The heart of We Are Brave Together is to preserve and protect the mental health of caregiving moms everywhere. JOIN the international community of We Are Brave Together here. Donate to our Retreats and Respite Scholarships here. Can't get enough of the Brave Together Podcast? Follow us on Instagram , Facebook and Youtube. Feel free to contact Jessica Patay via email: jpatay@wearebravetogether.org If you have any topic requests or if you would like to share a story, leave us a message here. Please leave a review and rating today! We thank you in advance! Disclaimer

Do you feel like you're carrying everyone else's needs on your shoulders? Or maybe you struggle to set boundaries without feeling guilty? You are not alone. In this episode of the Love Your Life Show, Susie Pettit sits down with Dr. Zoe Shaw, a licensed psychotherapist, life coach, podcast host, and author of Stronger in the Difficult Places. Dr. Zoe specializes in helping women heal from complex shame™ and codependency so they can experience healthy love, freedom, and stronger relationships…including the one with themselves. Together, Susie and Dr. Zoe unpack: ✨ What complex shame really is and how it sneaks into our daily lives ✨ The difference between healthy guilt and toxic shame ✨ Why so many women struggle with codependency in midlife ✨ How to set boundaries without the guilt ✨ The first steps to breaking unhealthy patterns and creating a lighter, freer life If you've ever thought, “It's too late for me to change,” or felt exhausted from always taking care of others before yourself—this conversation will give you the hope and tools you need. Press play and discover how you can become stronger in your own difficult places. If you liked this show, you'll like this one: How to STOP Over-Functioning and FEEL BETTER on Apple Podcast https://podcasts.apple.com/ph/podcast/188-how-to-stop-overfunctioning-and-feel-better/id1434429161?i=1000554161604 How to STOP Over-Functioning and FEEL BETTER on Spotify https://open.spotify.com/episode/2JPETjXq221KsocVrQkXrR?si=ec41e2c71af74168 Find Dr. Zoe Shaw's book, podcast and all other great things mentioned here

Do you feel like you're carrying everyone else's needs on your shoulders? Or maybe you struggle to set boundaries without feeling guilty? You are not alone. In this episode of the Love Your Life Show, Susie Pettit sits down with Dr. Zoe Shaw, a licensed psychotherapist, life coach, podcast host, and author of Stronger in the Difficult Places. Dr. Zoe specializes in helping women heal from complex shame™ and codependency so they can experience healthy love, freedom, and stronger relationships…including the one with themselves. Together, Susie and Dr. Zoe unpack: ✨ What complex shame really is and how it sneaks into our daily lives ✨ The difference between healthy guilt and toxic shame ✨ Why so many women struggle with codependency in midlife ✨ How to set boundaries without the guilt ✨ The first steps to breaking unhealthy patterns and creating a lighter, freer life If you've ever thought, "It's too late for me to change," or felt exhausted from always taking care of others before yourself—this conversation will give you the hope and tools you need. Press play and discover how you can become stronger in your own difficult places. If you liked this show, you'll like this one: How to STOP Over-Functioning and FEEL BETTER on Apple Podcast https://podcasts.apple.com/ph/podcast/188-how-to-stop-overfunctioning-and-feel-better/id1434429161?i=1000554161604 How to STOP Over-Functioning and FEEL BETTER on Spotify https://open.spotify.com/episode/2JPETjXq221KsocVrQkXrR?si=ec41e2c71af74168 Find Dr. Zoe Shaw's book, podcast and all other great things mentioned here

Hello Brave Friends! Welcome to today's expert episode, #233, with certified life coach and clinical hypnotherapist Shelly Ehler. These are conversations with experts in fields relevant to caregiving parents. In this enlightening conversation, Jessica Patay and Dr. Zoe Shaw interview Shelly Ehler about the transformative power of hypnotherapy, exploring its journey from skepticism to acceptance. Shelly shares her personal journey into hypnotherapy, addressing common misconceptions and the effectiveness of this therapeutic modality in treating anxiety, fears, and other mental health issues. The discussion highlights the process of hypnotherapy sessions, the safety and ethics involved, and its potential benefits for caregivers and individuals with special needs. The conversation concludes with a call for greater awareness and collaboration between hypnotherapists and traditional mental health professionals.Shelly Ehler is a certified life coach and clinical hypnotherapist and her mission is to enlighten, empower and inspire her clients to live their best lives! She received her life coaching certification from the Integrated Wellness Academy and her certification in hypnotherapy from the Hypnosis Motivation Institute, the first accredited college of hypnotherapy in the country. Find more information about Shelly Ehler here.The generous sponsor for the entirety of our San Diego retreat this month is PCSI. PCSI is a nationwide, mission-driven nonprofit that creates meaningful employment opportunities for people with disabilities and veterans while delivering exceptional services to both the public and private sectors. Through our Workforce Development programs—including Vocational Rehabilitation Services, Community Employment, and Careers at PCSI—we empower individuals to achieve independence, personal growth, and long-term success. By combining sustainable business innovation with a values-based approach, we strengthen communities, challenge the status quo, and deliver outstanding results in every partnership. PCSI enhances the lives of people with disabilities through employment, advocacy, partnerships, and innovation. Find FULL episodes and clips of our podcast on Youtube here.Brave Together Podcast is a resource produced by We Are Brave Together, a global nonprofit that creates community for moms raising children with disabilities, neurodivergence, or complex medical and mental health conditions. The heart of We Are Brave Together is to preserve and protect the mental health of caregiving moms everywhere. JOIN the international community of We Are Brave Together here. Donate to our Retreats and Respite Scholarships here. Can't get enough of the Brave Together Podcast? Follow us on Instagram , Facebook and Youtube. Feel free to contact Jessica Patay via email: jpatay@wearebravetogether.org If you have any topic requests or if you would like to share a story, leave us a message here. Please leave a review and rating today! We thank you in advance! Disclaimer

Running Your Race with Purpose: A Conversation with Dr. Zoe Shaw – Hebrews 12:1In this empowering episode of Divine Table Talk, Jamie and Jane sit down with Dr. Zoe Shaw, licensed psychotherapist, author, and host of The Dr. Zoe Show, to dive into the wisdom of Hebrews 12:1. Together, they explore what it means to run your race with endurance, let go of what holds you back, and embrace God's unique path for your life. Dr. Zoe brings her professional insight and biblical perspective to help listeners find emotional and spiritual freedom as they pursue wholeness in Christ. This conversation will inspire you to stay the course and run with purpose.____________________________________Connect with Jamie:Website: www.jamieklusacek.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/jamieklusacekConnect with Jane:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/janewwilliamsConnect with Dr. Zoe Shaw:Website: drzoeshaw.com____________________________________ Get Jamie's Newest Book:Living Loved: An 8-week Journey to Living Fully Loved

Hello Brave Friends! This is an Ask Us Anything episode in which YOU, the listener, get to write or call in and, you guessed it, ASK US ANYTHING! In this Ask Us Anything episode, #231, we are discussing how we stay grounded in our own bodies and feelings when our children are struggling and needing us to be right there with them.In this conversation, Susanna Peace Lovell and Dr. Zoe Shaw cover what to do when children are struggling. They discuss the importance of recognizing one's own feelings, the challenges of caregiving, and the need for self-care. The episode emphasizes the balance between empathy for children's struggles and the necessity of personal happiness, offering insights and strategies for navigating these emotional landscapes.Keep the questions coming, we're here to support you! Whether you have questions as a parent to a child with complex medical or mental health needs or you're someone looking to support a care-giving parent, we would LOVE to hear from you. We see you and we love you! Leave us a message here.Find more information about Licensed Psychotherapist, Dr. Zoe Shaw here. Find more information about Life Coach, Susanna Peace Lovell here.Find Susanna's book, Your True Self is Enough here.Find our first book from We Are Brave Together here.Find full episodes and clips of our podcast on Youtube here.Brave Together Podcast is a resource produced by We Are Brave Together, a global nonprofit that creates community for moms raising children with disabilities, neurodivergence, or complex medical and mental health conditions. The heart of We Are Brave Together is to preserve and protect the mental health of caregiving moms everywhere. JOIN the international community of We Are Brave Together here. Donate to our Retreats and Respite Scholarships here. Donate to keep this podcast going here. Can't get enough of the Brave Together Podcast? Follow us on Instagram , Facebook and Youtube. Feel free to contact Jessica Patay via email: jpatay@wearebravetogether.org If you have any topic requests or if you would like to share a story, leave us a message here. Please leave a review and rating today! We thank you in advance! ...

Hello Bravies! Welcome to today's expert episode, #230, with podcaster, narrative shifter and author of I Like You So Much: Celebrating What Makes You, You!, Heather Avis.In this episode of the Brave Together Podcast, Heather Avis joins hosts Jessica Patay, Susanna Peace Lovell, and Dr. Zoe Shaw to discuss her journey as a parent and advocate in the disability space. Heather shares her experiences of adopting children with Down syndrome and the impact it has had on her life. The conversation delves into the power of narrative shifting, self-advocacy, and recognizing the intrinsic value of every individual.Find more information about Heather Avis here.Check out The Lucky Few Podcast here.Find our first book from We Are Brave Together here.Find FULL episodes and clips of our podcast on Youtube here.Brave Together Podcast is a resource produced by We Are Brave Together, a global nonprofit that creates community for moms raising children with disabilities, neurodivergence, or complex medical and mental health conditions. The heart of We Are Brave Together is to preserve and protect the mental health of caregiving moms everywhere. JOIN the international community of We Are Brave Together here. Donate to our Retreats and Respite Scholarships here. Donate to keep this podcast going here. Can't get enough of the Brave Together Podcast? Follow us on Instagram , Facebook and Youtube. Feel free to contact Jessica Patay via email: jpatay@wearebravetogether.org If you have any topic requests or if you would like to share a story, leave us a message here. Please leave a review and rating today! We thank you in advance! ...

Shame is heavy—and most of us carry more of it than we realize. Therapist and author Dr. Zoe Shaw joins me to unpack complex shame and share what it really takes to heal, reclaim your worth, and show up fully as yourself.Therapist and author Dr. Zoe Shaw introduces the concept of complex shame—a deeper, more persistent form of shame that can't be erased with outside compassion alone.Dr. Zoe opens up about her own story of teenage pregnancy, being sent away to a maternity home, and the years of overachievement she used to mask her pain. She explains how complex shame develops, the many ways it shows up—racial, generational, religious, body, gender—and why real healing requires self-compassion, accountability, and forgiveness.At the heart of her message: you are worthy to show up exactly as you are.✨ In this episode, we cover:The difference between “simple” shame and complex shameDr. Zoe's personal journey through secrecy, grief, and overachievementThe many forms of shame and how to recognize themWhy self-compassion is non-negotiable for healingTools for forgiveness and rewriting your storyHow releasing shame creates freedom, authenticity, and hope

Dr. Zoe Shaw guides us through healing from complex shame.

This has to be one of Rachael's favorite episodes in a long time - Dr. Zoe will blow you away with the story of her path to publication! Dr. Zoe Shaw is a licensed psychotherapist, author, speaker, podcast host, relationship coach, and proud mom of five. After fifteen years in traditional psychotherapy, Dr. Zoe left the therapy couch to create a more dynamic way to help women heal—blending the best of psychology, faith, and just the right dose of feminism. She's best known in her field for coining the term “complex shame.” Through virtual coaching, programs, and her podcast Stronger in the Difficult Places, she guides women to break free from codependency and shame, and reclaim their voices, boundaries, and self-worth. Her new book is Stronger in the Difficult Places: Heal Your Relationship with Yourself by Untangling Complex Shame https://amzn.to/3KxFFSE

Hello Brave Friends! This is an Ask Us Anything episode in which YOU, the listener, get to write or call in and, you guessed it, ASK US ANYTHING! In this Ask Us Anything episode, #227, we are discussing how to approach and support other caregiving moms when we see them in the wild. In this heartfelt episode, Jessica Patay, Susanna Peace Lovell, and Dr. Zoe Shaw dive into the challenges and triumphs of parenting children with special needs. They share personal stories and insights on how to approach fellow parents with empathy and understanding, emphasizing the importance of being allies to one another. Join them as they explore the power of connection, the impact of societal norms, and the simple yet profound act of acknowledging each other's humanity. Tune in for an inspiring conversation that encourages us all to be more compassionate and supportive in our daily interactions.Keep the questions coming, we're here to support you! Whether you have questions as a parent to a child with complex medical or mental health needs or you're someone looking to support a care-giving parent, we would LOVE to hear from you. We see you and we love you! Leave us a message here.Find more information about Licensed Psychotherapist, Dr. Zoe Shaw here. Find more information about Life Coach, Susanna Peace Lovell here.Find Susanna's book, Your True Self is Enough here.Find our first book from We Are Brave Together here.Find full episodes and clips of our podcast on Youtube here.Brave Together Podcast is a resource produced by We Are Brave Together, a global nonprofit that creates community for moms raising children with disabilities, neurodivergence, or complex medical and mental health conditions. The heart of We Are Brave Together is to preserve and protect the mental health of caregiving moms everywhere. JOIN the international community of We Are Brave Together here. Donate to our Retreats and Respite Scholarships here. Donate to keep this podcast going here. Can't get enough of the Brave Together Podcast? Follow us on Instagram , Facebook and Youtube. Feel free to contact Jessica Patay via email: jpatay@wearebravetogether.org If you have any topic requests or if you would like to share a story, leave us a message here. Please leave a review and rating today! We thank you in advance! ...