Brave Together Podcast: Support and Community for Caregiving Moms

CONTENT WARNING: This episode includes discussions of suicide, eating disorders, pedophilia, self harm, and sex trafficking. Please take care while listening and skip any portions that may be difficult for you. Hello Brave Friends! Welcome to today's Expert episode, #264, with Julie Scelfo, journalist and founder of Mothers Against Media Addiction. These are conversations with experts in fields relevant to caregiving parents. In this episode, Susanna Peace Lovell and Jessica Patay sit down with Julie to discuss the growing impact of social media, artificial intelligence, and addictive technology on the mental health, safety, and well-being of children and teens. Julie explains how algorithms and platform design can keep young people engaged while exposing them to harmful content, and why the responsibility for keeping kids safe online cannot fall entirely on parents. She discusses the similarities she sees between the tech industry and other industries that have profited from addictive products, and why she believes stronger accountability and regulation are urgently needed. The conversation also explores the mission behind Mothers Against Media Addiction and the growing movement of parents advocating for safer technology. Julie shares why protecting children requires more than parental controls and individual family rules—it requires systemic change and digital environments that are safe for kids by design. Together, Julie, Susanna, and Jessica discuss legislative and policy efforts, the responsibility of technology companies, and practical ways parents can become more aware and engaged while navigating an online landscape that continues to evolve rapidly. This conversation is an important reminder that parents shouldn't have to fight this battle alone. Creating a healthier digital world for children will require informed families, collective advocacy, industry accountability, and meaningful policy reform. We see you, and we love you! We are incredibly grateful to Rise Educational Advocacy for sponsoring Season 11 of Brave Together Podcast and for supporting our mission to strengthen and encourage caregiving moms. Find more information about Rise here . Find more about Julie Scelfo 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, Becoming Brave Together here . Find our second book from We Are Brave Together, Suddenly Brave Together here . Find FULL episodes and clips of our podcast on Youtube here . 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

Hello Brave Friends! Welcome to today's Story episode, #263. These are true stories from a moment in the life of a caregiving parent. We hear a crafted story, and then have a conversation with our guest that goes deeper into their experience. In this episode, Jessica Patay and Susanna Peace Lovell sit down with Nikki McIntosh, rare disease mom, advocate, author, and founder of Rare Mamas, to talk about her journey raising her son Miles, who has spinal muscular atrophy, or SMA. Nikki shares the early days of knowing something wasn't right, the persistence it took to push for answers, and how becoming an advocate for her son ultimately changed the direction of her own life. She opens up about the realities of caregiving, navigating school and community, and learning when to protect her time and energy by setting boundaries. Jessica, Susanna, and Nikki also talk about something caregiving moms often struggle to prioritize: themselves. Nikki shares how exhaustion and overwhelm led her to become more intentional about self-care, why she now considers it a non-negotiable, and what it looks like to prioritize peace while still carrying the responsibilities of caregiving. They also explore Nikki's journey to creating Rare Mamas and becoming an author, including how writing gave her a way to process her experiences, turn pain into purpose, and use her own story to support other families navigating rare disease. This conversation is a reminder that advocating fiercely for our children and caring for ourselves don't have to be opposing goals. Nikki encourages fellow caregiving moms to keep pushing for answers, protect their energy, use their gifts to serve others, and make room for joy and peace along the way. We see you, and we love you! Find more information about Nikki McIntosh here . Find Nikki’s book, Rare Mamas 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, Becoming Brave Together here . Find our second book from We Are Brave Together, Suddenly Brave Together here . Find FULL episodes and clips of our podcast on Youtube here . 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

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, #262, Jessica Patay, Susanna Peace Lovell, and Dr. Zoe are responding to the question: “Hi Bravies! How do I find my purpose when my whole life revolves around caregiving? I am a single mom and I do not have respite caregivers or family to help me out.” When caregiving requires nearly everything you have, where is the space to figure out who you are or what gives your life purpose outside of being a mom? Jessica, Susanna, and Dr. Zoe talk honestly about identity, purpose, and the very different seasons of a caregiving life. They acknowledge the grief that can come with losing a career, freedom, spontaneity, or a version of yourself you thought you would get to be—and why those feelings deserve compassion rather than judgment. Together, they challenge the idea that purpose is something we have to go out and “find.” Instead, purpose can be formed through the way we live our lives right now. Living in alignment with our values, finding small moments of meaning and calm, and staying connected to ourselves can matter even when our circumstances leave very little room for anything beyond caregiving. They also discuss the importance of community and connection, practical tools for supporting mental health, and how thinking about future seasons can create hope without requiring us to pretend our present circumstances are easy. Most importantly, this conversation makes room for the reality behind the listener’s question: not every caregiving mom has respite, family support, time, or the ability to simply “do something for herself.” Finding purpose shouldn't become one more impossible task on an already overwhelming list. Your purpose doesn't have to be a destination, a career, a passion project, or something separate from the life you're living. It can evolve as your circumstances change—and so can you. Keep the vulnerable questions coming. We’re here to support you. We see you, and we love you! We are incredibly grateful to Rise Educational Advocacy for sponsoring Season 11 of Brave Together Podcast and for supporting our mission to strengthen and encourage caregiving moms. Find more about Rise here . Resources mentioned in this episode: Calm App , Values Bridge by Susie Welch Find more information about Licensed Psychotherapist, Dr. Zoe 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, Becoming Brave Together here . Find our second book from We Are Brave Together, Suddenly Brave Together here . Find FULL episodes and clips of our podcast on Youtube here . 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

Hello Brave Friends! Welcome to Season 11 of Brave Together Podcast! Brave Together Podcast is the podcast of We Are Brave Together, a nonprofit supporting moms of children with disabilities, neurodivergence, medical complexities, mental health struggles, and all forms of unique needs. Your hosts Jessica Patay, Susanna Peace Lovell, and Dr. Zoe bring their professional expertise, lived experiences, and years of caregiving motherhood to honest conversations created to help you feel seen, supported, encouraged, and less alone. This season, we’re continuing the conversations you’ve come to know and love: Story episodes featuring the real experiences of caregiving moms; Expert episodes exploring topics that impact you and your family; Thriving Disabled and Neurodivergent Adult episodes offering invaluable insight into the lived experiences of disabled adults; and Ask Us Anything episodes, where Jessica, Susanna, and Dr. Zoe dig into the questions you send our way. Season 11 will explore everything from caregiver burnout, self-care, relationships, and advocacy to disability, mental health, navigating our kids’ needs, and the complicated, beautiful, exhausting realities of caregiving. We are so honored that Brave Together Podcast continues to grow alongside this extraordinary community of brave moms around the world, including through UK Health Radio. Whether you’ve been with us since the beginning or you’re just finding us now, welcome. We are so glad you’re here. And we want YOU to be part of the conversation. Submit your stories through our website, call into our SpeakPipe through the link in the show notes and leave us your questions, or connect with us on Instagram and YouTube @wearebravetogether. Your questions and experiences help shape the conversations we have here. You can also find full episodes and more from Brave Together Podcast on YouTube. And if this podcast has made you feel seen, supported, or a little less alone, please rate and review the show and share it with your friends and fellow caregiving moms. Every share helps us reach another brave mom who may need this community. We are incredibly grateful to Rise Educational Advocacy for sponsoring Season 11 of Brave Together Podcast and for supporting our mission to strengthen and encourage caregiving families. At Brave Together Podcast, we offer you community and remind you every chance we get: you are strong, capable, and definitely not alone. We see you, and we love you. Welcome to Season 11! Find more information about Licensed Psychotherapist, Dr. Zoe 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, Becoming Brave Together here . Find our second book from We Are Brave Together, Suddenly Brave Together here . Find FULL episodes and clips of our podcast on Youtube here . 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 . Donate to keep this podcast going here . Can’t get enough of the Brave Together Podcast? Follow us on Instagram or on Facebook . 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 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

Hello Brave Friends! Welcome to today's expert episode, #224, with Amanda Griffith-Atkins. These are conversations with experts in fields relevant to caregiving parents. On this episode Amanda Griffith-Atkins joins us to discuss the inspiration behind her book, 'How to Handle More Than You Can Handle: Raising a Disabled Child Without Losing Yourself.' In our conversation, she emphasizes the importance of self-care, compassion, and the emotional experiences of parents in similar situations. Her book serves as a companion for parents navigating the challenges of raising children with disabilities, offering insights and support for their emotional well-being. Amanda Griffith-Atkins is a licensed marriage and family therapist and founder of Amanda Atkins Counseling Group in Chicago. Amanda is also an in-demand speaker, author, and guest lecturer. Amanda’s book is available anywhere books or audiobooks are sold. Find more information about Amanda Griffith-Atkins here . And if you’d like to hear MORE episodes with Amanda, find them here: Ep 144 Flexibility is Key and Ep 211 EXPERT: When You Wish Your Kid Had a Different Diagnosis Find more information about Licensed Psychotherapist, Dr. Zoe 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, Becoming Brave Together here . Find our second book from We Are Brave Together, Suddenly Brave Together here . Find FULL episodes and clips of our podcast on Youtube here . 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

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 Licensed Psychotherapist, Dr. Zoe 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, Becoming Brave Together here . Find our second book from We Are Brave Together, Suddenly Brave Together here . Find FULL episodes and clips of our podcast on Youtube here . 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

Hello Brave Friends! I'm so excited for our very first Thriving Disabled Adults episode, #187. This is a new episode that we are doing for Season 7 of Brave Together Parenting Podcast, and our first guest is a radiant soul. I could feel his energy and his vibrance, just reading about him. So I cannot wait for you to hear this conversation with Cam Calkoen. Cam Calkoen is from New Zealand and he says that his life, defined by cerebral palsy, ambition and service above self, embodies resilience and determination. He defied expectations by mastering running and speaking, achievements once deemed impossible for him. Cam is thrilled to share his journey on Brave Together Parenting, celebrating his parents nurturing and his own mindset as he prepares for parenthood himself. Cam's story reflects values of courage and limitless potential as a full professional, inspirational speaker. He delivers a powerful message worldwide, inspiring others to surpass perceived limits and embrace their unique abilities. Please enjoy my conversation with Cam Calkoen. Find out more about Cam Calkoen 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, Becoming Brave Together here . Find our second book from We Are Brave Together, Suddenly Brave Together here . Find FULL episodes and clips of our podcast on Youtube here . 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

Hello Brave Friends! Welcome to today's BONUS episode. Our guest is care advocate and author, Elissa Strauss, who has a fantastic new book called When You Care, The Unexpected Magic of Caring for Others . This conversation was about such an important topic that I invited author, activist and fellow caregiving mom, Kelley Coleman to co-host with me. And together we explore the powerful role caring for others plays in our individual and communal lives with Elissa Strauss who in her book weaves together research about care and stories from parents and caregivers with a feminist bent. Elissa Strauss has been writing about the politics and culture of parenting and caregiving for more than 15 years. Her work appears in publications like The Atlantic, The New York Times, Glamour, Elle, and elsewhere. And she was a former contributing writer at CNN.com and Slate, where her cultural criticism about motherhood appeared on XX. Her book, When You Care, The Unexpected Magic of Caring for Others , is out now from Gallery Bugs. Please enjoy this critical and important conversation. Thanks so much for listening! Find Elissa Strauss and her book, When You Care: The Unexpected Magic of Caring for Others here . Find Kelley Coleman and her book Everything No One Tells You About Parenting a Disabled Child: Your Guide to the Essential Systems, Services, and Supports 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, Becoming Brave Together here . Find our second book from We Are Brave Together, Suddenly Brave Together here . Find FULL episodes and clips of our podcast on Youtube here . 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

Hello Brave Friends! Welcome to today's expert episode, #232, with Speech Dude, Chris Wenger, sharing his neurodivergent affirming approach to IEP’s and wow does he have a refreshing take on them. In this episode of the Brave Together podcast, Chris Wenger shares his journey as a neurodivergent educator and advocate for students with special needs. He discusses the importance of understanding neurodiversity, the need for a shift from deficit-based IEPs to a more affirming approach, and the significance of creating safe and supportive learning environments. Chris emphasizes the value of connecting with students authentically and provides insights into effective teaching strategies and resources for educators and parents alike. Chris Wenger is a neurodivergent high school speech-language pathologist of over 20 years, international speaker, and creator of the Dynamic Assessment of Social Emotional Learning, a strengths-based assessment for autistic students. He is also the founder of NeuroAffirm, a first-of-its-kind worldwide interactive directory connecting providers and families. Globally known as Speech Dude, he has amassed nearly one million social media followers, sharing inspiring and educational content, always with a humorous twist. Find more information about Chris Wenger here . Follow Chris Wenger on IG 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, Becoming Brave Together here . Find our second book from We Are Brave Together, Suddenly Brave Together here . Find FULL episodes and clips of our podcast on Youtube here . 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

Hello Brave Friends! Welcome to today's story episode, #229. These are true stories from a moment in the life of a caregiving parent. We hear a crafted story, and then have a conversation with our guests that goes deeper into their experience. Join Susanna Peace Lovell and Natasha M. Nurse, Esq. as they delve into the complexities of neurodivergence, motherhood, and personal growth. Natasha shares her journey of self-discovery, from her childhood experiences to her recent diagnosis of autism and ADHD. The conversation explores the challenges and triumphs of raising a neurodivergent child, the importance of self-care, and the power of storytelling. Tune in for an inspiring discussion on embracing authenticity and designing a life that serves you. Find out more about Natasha M. Nurse Esq. here and here and here . Learn more about MRM Education here . Learn more about ShareWell here Learn more about Swell Cast 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, Becoming Brave Together here . Find our second book from We Are Brave Together, Suddenly Brave Together here . Find FULL episodes and clips of our podcast on Youtube here . 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

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, #189, we are responding to the question, Do you have any tips for navigating life with a disabled child after a divorce? This is a VERY relevant topic for our community because the added stress of caregiving for disabled children is not known to help marriages last longer. Also two of our three hosts have been through divorce and continue to co-parent with their disabled children’s fathers. So we have A LOT of first hand experience and advice for this caller. In this episode we offer: important things to consider in the divorce process, ways to break the news to our kids and the realities of what co-parenting with your ex-partner can look like as the primary caregiver. Keep the vulnerable questions coming. We’re here to support you! We see you and we love 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. If you have any topic requests or if you would like to ask a question, leave us a message 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, Becoming Brave Together here . Find our second book from We Are Brave Together, Suddenly Brave Together here . Find FULL episodes and clips of our podcast on Youtube here . 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

Hello Brave Friends! Welcome to today's expert episode, #234, with Jeremy and Ilana Hamburgh the creators of Social Life 360 . These are conversations with experts in fields relevant to caregiving parents. In this conversation, Susanna Peace Lovell interviews Jeremy and Ilana Hamburgh, a couple dedicated to supporting neurodivergent individuals in building friendships and relationships through their program, Social Life 360. They share their backgrounds, the inception of their program, and the importance of community and support in navigating social skills. The discussion also touches on the challenges faced by neurodivergent individuals, the impact of media representation, and the success stories that inspire their work. Ultimately, they emphasize the importance of connection and the dreams they have for their clients' futures. 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, Becoming Brave Together here . Find our second book from We Are Brave Together, Suddenly Brave Together here . Find FULL episodes and clips of our podcast on Youtube here . 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

Hello Brave Friends! Welcome to special feature episode #261 of the Brave Together Podcast. In this moving conversation inspired by Suddenly Brave Together , Jessica Patay sits down with several mothers to share honest reflections about caregiving, resilience, motherhood, and the transformative power of storytelling. Together, Asha, Tina, and Lena open up about raising children with complex medical and developmental needs, the emotional realities of adapting to unexpected diagnoses, and the ways caregiving reshapes identity, relationships, and hope. Throughout the episode, the mothers discuss grief, acceptance, fear, advocacy, and the complicated emotions that often coexist alongside deep love and connection. They also reflect on the healing that can happen when caregivers share their stories openly and realize they are not alone. This conversation explores how children with disabilities and complex needs often become profound teachers—offering lessons about presence, compassion, emotional strength, and unconditional love. Jessica and the guests also discuss the meaning behind the phrase “Suddenly Brave” and how bravery often looks less like confidence and more like continuing forward one moment at a time, even when life feels uncertain or overwhelming. This episode is a beautiful reminder that there is power in vulnerability, healing in community, and hope in being witnessed by others who understand the caregiving journey. Connect with Tina at tina@kidsrarecare.com , or find out more about her here . Find more information about Asha here . Find more information about Lena 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, Becoming Brave Together here . Find our second book from We Are Brave Together, Suddenly Brave Together here . Find FULL episodes and clips of our podcast on Youtube here . 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

Hello Brave Friends! Welcome to today’s expert episode, #260, with relationship advocate and speaker Julia Woods. These expert episodes feature conversations with professionals, advocates, and community voices whose work supports caregiving parents and families navigating complex life experiences. In this episode, hosts Jessica Patay and Susanna Peace Lovell sit down with Julia for a powerful conversation about marriage, emotional connection, and navigating suffering together as partners. Julia shares her personal journey and the experiences that shaped her work supporting couples through hardship and transition. Together, the conversation explores how caregiving, stress, grief, and changing family dynamics can deeply impact relationships—and why emotional honesty, vulnerability, and compassion are essential during difficult seasons. Jessica, Susanna, and Julia discuss practical ways couples can strengthen connection, improve communication, and remain emotionally present for one another even when life feels overwhelming. The episode also highlights the importance of support systems and community, particularly for men who are often socially conditioned to navigate pain and stress in isolation. Throughout the conversation, Julia emphasizes that partnership does not require perfection. Instead, healthy relationships are built through honesty, empathy, shared support, and a willingness to turn toward each other during suffering rather than away from it. This episode is a compassionate and encouraging reminder that even in life’s hardest seasons, connection and support remain possible—and deeply important. Find more information about Julia Woods here . Follow Julia on Instagram 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, Becoming Brave Together here . Find our second book from We Are Brave Together, Suddenly Brave Together here . Find FULL episodes and clips of our podcast on Youtube here . 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

Hello Brave Friends! Welcome to today’s expert episode, #259, with documentary filmmaker and disability advocate Dan Habib. These expert episodes feature conversations with professionals, advocates, and storytellers whose work supports caregiving families and the disability community. In this episode, hosts Jessica Patay, Susanna Peace Lovell, and Dr. Zoe talk with Dan about his journey from photojournalist to acclaimed filmmaker and advocate for disability inclusion. Dan shares how the birth of his son Samuel transformed both his family’s life and the trajectory of his work. Through projects like Including Samuel and The Ride Ahead , Dan has used storytelling and documentary filmmaking to challenge misconceptions about disability, amplify disabled voices, and advocate for systems rooted in belonging, mentorship, and interdependence. The conversation explores the impact of mentorship in disability advocacy, the importance of authentic representation in media, and the lessons Dan has learned from Samuel about patience, communication, and community. Dan also speaks candidly about the fragility of support systems for families and the ongoing work of creating a more inclusive society where disabled individuals are valued, supported, and empowered. Jessica, Susanna, and Zoe also discuss the emotional realities of parenting children with disabilities, balancing independence and support, and the importance of building communities where families feel seen and understood. This episode is a thoughtful and inspiring conversation about advocacy, storytelling, and the power of community to create meaningful change. Find more information about Dan Habib here . Follow Dan on social media here . Find more information about Licensed Psychotherapist, Dr. Zoe 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, Becoming Brave Together here . Find our second book from We Are Brave Together, Suddenly Brave Together here . Find FULL episodes and clips of our podcast on Youtube here . 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

In this Thriving Neurodivergent Adults episode, hosts Jessica Patay and Susanna Peace Lovell sit down with artist, advocate, and neurodivergent creative Alexis Brygider for a deeply personal and unforgettable conversation about communication, creativity, disability justice, and finding belonging. On this episode, Alexis is joined on this episode by Anthony Rivello, a personal mentor on her support staff and a founding board member of We Are Brave Together. Alexis shares memories from early childhood, including growing up nonverbal and experiencing the world through intense sensory and emotional awareness. She reflects on how art became her first language and how watching expressive performers and comedians helped her learn communication and human connection. Throughout the conversation, Alexis speaks candidly about frustration, emotional overwhelm, and the internal experience of being misunderstood while desperately wanting connection. She offers compassionate insight into emotional dysregulation and explains how patience, support, and understanding can help neurodivergent individuals build communication skills and self-awareness over time. Alexis also honors the people who shaped her life, especially her mother Barbara, whose steady love and belief in her became a foundation for growth and resilience. The episode explores the importance of support staff, community, disability advocacy, and creating environments where disabled adults can thrive authentically. Listeners will also hear Alexis discuss her artistic work, disability justice communities, and her dream of creating meaningful art and animation that helps others feel understood and connected. This conversation is equal parts insightful, emotional, philosophical, and joyful—and serves as a beautiful reminder that every person deserves to be seen, heard, supported, and valued exactly as they are. Find more information about Alexis Brygider 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, Becoming Brave Together here . Find our second book from We Are Brave Together, Suddenly Brave Together here . Find FULL episodes and clips of our podcast on Youtube here . 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

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, #257, we’re responding to the question: “HI LADIES. I know the new book is coming out soon. I am very excited! What's a question you were afraid to ask early on as a mom — and what's the answer you wish someone had given you?” In this heartfelt conversation, Jessica Patay, Susanna Peace Lovell, and Dr. Zoe reflect on the fears, grief, uncertainty, and unspoken questions they each carried early in their caregiving journeys. The hosts share personal stories about the questions they were afraid to voice out loud—questions about identity, marriage, loneliness, resentment, joy, the future, and whether they would ever truly feel okay again. Together, they explore how silence and shame can keep caregivers isolated, and why honest conversations and community support are so important. Jessica, Susanna, and Dr. Zoe also discuss the answers they wish someone had given them earlier: that grief and joy can coexist, that perfection is not required, that asking for help is healthy, and that caregivers deserve support and compassion too. Throughout the episode, the hosts emphasize that there is no “perfect” way to navigate caregiving and that vulnerability can become a powerful pathway toward healing and connection. This episode is a tender reminder that many of the questions caregivers are afraid to ask are actually deeply human—and that no one should have to carry those fears alone. 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 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, Becoming Brave Together here . Find our second book from We Are Brave Together, Suddenly Brave Together here . Find FULL episodes and clips of our podcast on Youtube here . 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

Hello Brave Friends! Welcome to today's expert episode, #256, with Laurie Magulac, an advocate focused on supporting caregivers navigating the financial realities of raising children with disabilities. These expert episodes feature conversations with professionals and advocates whose work directly supports caregiving parents and families navigating complex needs. In this episode, hosts Jessica Patay and Susanna Peace Lovell sit down with Laurie to discuss the financial challenges many caregivers face when raising children with disabilities. Laurie shares her perspective on the intersection of caregiving, poverty, and public assistance systems, and explains why so many families struggle financially despite working tirelessly to support their children. The conversation explores how caregiving responsibilities can limit employment opportunities, create long-term financial strain, and force families to navigate complicated support systems that are often difficult to understand or access. Laurie also highlights resources available to caregivers, including programs that support student parents and families pursuing education while raising children with disabilities. Jessica and Susanna discuss the emotional impact financial stress can have on families and the stigma that can prevent caregivers from seeking help. Laurie emphasizes that accessing public assistance or community resources is nothing to be ashamed of and encourages families to pursue support systems designed to help them survive and thrive. The discussion also touches on the importance of advocacy, policy change, and collaboration between organizations to create stronger support networks for caregivers. Laurie shares her hope for more accessible, centralized resources and greater public awareness of the financial realities many caregiving families face. This episode is a powerful reminder that caregivers deserve support, safety, and community—and that sharing these stories can help shift public perception and drive meaningful change. Contact Laurie Magulac at lauriewallin@gmail.com Sign up for one of Laurie’s upcoming in-person or virtual support groups for Moms of Teens 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, Becoming Brave Together here . Find our second book from We Are Brave Together, Suddenly Brave Together here . Find FULL episodes and clips of our podcast on Youtube here . 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

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 here . Find FULL episodes and clips of our podcast on Youtube here . 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

Hello Brave Friends! Welcome to today's story episode, #254. These are true stories from a moment in the life of a caregiving parent. We hear a crafted story, and then have a conversation with our guest that goes deeper into their experience. In this episode of the Brave Together podcast, Wendy Ernzen shares her journey raising her daughter Nicola, who lives with autism and bipolar disorder. Wendy reflects on the challenges of navigating complex diagnoses, advocating for the right educational and support systems, and facing moments of crisis that required courage, compassion, and difficult decisions. Through her story, Wendy explores the emotional realities of caregiving, the importance of finding community support, and the critical role of self-care for parents navigating long-term caregiving journeys. She speaks openly about the moments that pushed her family to seek new forms of help and how those experiences ultimately created new pathways toward stability and growth. In the conversation that follows, hosts Jessica Patay and Susanna Peace Lovell discuss with Wendy the importance of compassion when interpreting our children’s behaviors, the need for stronger support systems for families, and how caregivers can find meaning, connection, and small moments of joy even in the most challenging seasons. Wendy’s story is a powerful reminder that caregivers cannot do this work alone—and that community, honesty, and support are essential to sustaining the journey. Find more about Wendy Ernzen 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 . Donate in May to support retreats & scholarships: https://www.wearebravetogether.org/mothers-day 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