I Don't Know How You Do It

When my husband and started trying to have a baby, we never imagined our path to parenthood would include 25 fertility procedures, two gestational carriers, and multiple journeys to Guatemala.In this deeply personal episode, I share an excerpt of Breath Taking (what made it in and what didn't), about navigating years of IVF treatments, the complex emotions of working with a surrogate, and how failure after failure led us to completely reimagine what building our family could look like. This intimate story explores the unexpected ways hope can transform us, the definition of motherhood, and how sometimes Plan B becomes the story we were meant to live all along.From awkward dinner parties with potential surrogates to hormone shots on Amtrak, from the heartbreak of missing plus signs to the growing pull of international adoption, I learned that  sometimes our deepest disappointments can lead us exactly where we need to go.Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts "This is my go-to podcast for inspiration and to discover new approaches to embrace the challenges in my life." If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me reach more people -- just like you -- find strategies and insights to do the things that feel undoable. Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode! Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. Follow now! Sign up for my newsletter and learn more about these remarkable stories at www.jessicafeinstories.comOrder Jessica's memoir, Breath Taking: A Memoir of Family, Dreams, and Broken GenesMusic credit: Limitless by Bells

In a world where most of us run from difficult conversations, Dr. Shoshana Ungerleider is running towards them. A physician, science journalist, public health advocate, and acclaimed film producer, Shoshana brings her unique multidisciplinary approach to transforming how we understand end-of-life care. As the founder of EndWell and executive producer of Oscar-nominated documentaries like "Extremis" and "Endgame", she's leading a national movement to reshape conversations about mortality -- with radical bravery.Drawing from her personal journey caring for her father during his pancreatic cancer diagnosis and her professional work advocating for compassionate healthcare, she reveals how confronting mortality can help us live more meaningfully and how we can bring wonder, hope, and even joy to life's most challenging transitions.You'll learn:How to start difficult conversations about end-of-life wishes with loved onesThe true role of palliative care and when to seek its supportPractical steps for becoming a better healthcare advocateWays to find meaning and purpose by reflecting on mortalityStrategies for supporting family members through serious illnessHow to approach life's biggest transitions with radical bravery.Learn more about Shoshana:Instagram Before We Go podcast EndWell Shoshana's Website EndWell Project Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts "This is my go-to podcast for inspiration and to discover new approaches to embrace the challenges in my life." If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me reach more people -- just like you -- find strategies and insights to do the things that feel undoable. Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode! Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. Follow now! Sign up for my newsletter and learn more about these remarkable stories at www.jessicafeinstories.comOrder Jessica's memoir, Breath Taking: A Memoir of Family, Dreams, and Broken GenesMusic credit: Limitless by Bells

Sometimes our life experiences are preparing us for what comes next in ways we'd never imagine.That's what happened to Joanne De Simone, a former professional dancer who used lessons from her dance training to help her navigate the challenges of raising two children with complex needs -- one with a rare, life-limiting brain malformation and one with autism. Joanne is a graduate of Hunter College with degrees in dance and special education. After dancing professionally with companies including José Limón and Dianne McIntyre, she dedicated her life to teaching children with disabilities and supporting families. Joanne also became an advocate. She and her son, Sebastian, were instrumental in a legislative change allowing students with intellectual disabilities to participate in NCAA D3 intercollegiate sports. Joanne writes about all of it in her memoir, Fall and Recovery. Her writing has appeared in the Washington Post, Exceptional Parent Magazine, and the Rumpus, among other publications. She is a contributing author to “Barriers and Belonging: Personal Narratives of Disabilities.” Joanne has been featured in the Philadelphia Inquirer, on HuffPost Live, CNN, and GMA3. You'll learn:How your life experiences might intertwine in unexpected waysThe biggest lifeline in times of challengeStrategies for maintaining your identity beyond just being a caregiverAdvice for advocating relentlessly and not taking "no" for a final answer.Why unvarnished truth is way more useful -- and interesting -- than hearing from someone who's got it all figured out.Learn more about Joanne:Instagram: FacebookWebsiteRate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts "This is my go-to podcast for inspiration and to discover new approaches to embrace the challenges in my life." If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me reach more people -- just like you -- find strategies and insights to do the things that feel undoable. Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode! Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. Follow now! Sign up for my newsletter and learn more about these remarkable stories at www.jessicafeinstories.comOrder Jessica's memoir, Breath Taking: A Memoir of Family, Dreams, and Broken GenesMusic credit: Limitless by Bells

Rare disease advocate Mackenzie Abramson spent more than 20 years searching for her own diagnosis, facing intense medical gaslighting along the way. She endured 30 surgeries, a mental health crisis, and endless battles to be heard and taken seriously by the medical establishment.Yet Mackenzie refused to be dismissed. She earned her master's in public health and went on to work on global health initiatives in Rwanda, Egypt, and on the COVID-19 response in the U.S. Turning her pain into purpose, Mackenzie now works at Global Genes, supporting the rare disease community.In this candid and inspiring conversation, Mackenzie shares her odyssey from medical disbelief to rare disease empowerment. She discusses the trauma of gaslighting, the importance of mental health advocacy, and how she manages to remain hopeful even in the face of immense challenges. Mackenzie's story is a testament to the power of unchosen resilience and the transformative impact one person can have.Key Takeaways:You are the expert on your own health - trust your instincts and speak up for yourselfDon't wait to build your mental health toolbox, even before you think you need itTwo truths can coexist - you can feel gratitude and feel like "this sucks" at the same timeFinding your community is crucial, but you must also be willing to advocate for yourselfResilience can be unchosen, but it can also empower you to do things you never imaginedLearn more about Mackenzie:LinkedIn Instagram Linktree Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts "This is my go-to podcast for inspiration and to discover new approaches to embrace the challenges in my life." If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me reach more people -- just like you -- find strategies and insights to do the things that feel undoable. Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode! Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. Follow now! Sign up for my newsletter and learn more about these remarkable stories at www.jessicafeinstories.comOrder Jessica's memoir, Breath Taking: A Memoir of Family, Dreams, and Broken GenesMusic credit: Limitless by Bells

In this powerful episode, author and performer Susan Lieu shares her journey of uncovering long-buried family secrets after her mother's death from a botched tummy tuck. As the daughter of Vietnamese refugees and a self-described "multi-hyphenate storyteller," Susan reveals how she transformed decades of silence into art, taking her one-woman show on a national tour and writing her memoir "The Manicurist's Daughter." From spirit channeling to confronting her own body image struggles, Susan's story illuminates the complex intersection of beauty standards, cultural expectations, and generational trauma. Her raw honesty about finding her voice – and her place in the world – reminds us that healing isn't just about moving forward, but about going through the darkness to find the light.You'll learn:How to stop taking things personallyWhy you should feel it to heal itThe truth behind inherited shame and how you can break free from itWhy we need to ignore statisticsThe power of transforming your scars into superpowersWhy you should trust the detours And so much moreLearn more about Susan:Instagram  Facebook Tiktok: susanlieuofficialLinkedInWebsiteRate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts "This is my go-to podcast for inspiration and to discover new approaches to embrace the challenges in my life." If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me reach more people -- just like you -- find strategies and insights to do the things that feel undoable. Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode! Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. Follow now! Sign up for my newsletter and learn more about these remarkable stories at www.jessicafeinstories.comOrder Jessica's memoir, Breath Taking: A Memoir of Family, Dreams, and Broken GenesMusic credit: Limitless by Bells

What would happen if we were all more honest about what we're really going through? Amanda Griffith-Atkins, therapist and mother of a child with Prader-Willi Syndrome, has built a powerful community around that very question. In this raw and refreshing conversation, Amanda challenges the "special needs warrior" narrative and toxic positivity that often surrounds disability and caregiving. She opens up about navigating her son's complex needs while maintaining her own identity, and shares how her journey transformed both her approach to therapy and her understanding of human connection. This episode offers a masterclass in scrapping the "at least" statements and embracing the messy, beautiful complexity of being human.Key Takeaways:Stop starting sentences with "at least" - when someone shares struggles, they need acknowledgment, not silver linings"Name it to tame it" - explicitly naming difficult feelings helps process themTreat yourself with the same compassion you'd offer a best friendYour identity doesn't have to be consumed by caregiving - it's healthy to maintain other parts of who you areChallenge traditional caregiving roles to create true partnershipsSometimes the most powerful response to someone's pain is simply saying "This sucks. I'm here with you."Find more about Amanda: WebsiteInstagramRate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts "This is my go-to podcast for inspiration and to discover new approaches to embrace the challenges in my life." If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me reach more people -- just like you -- find strategies and insights to do the things that feel undoable. Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode! Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. Follow now! Sign up for my newsletter and learn more about these remarkable stories at www.jessicafeinstories.comOrder Jessica's memoir, Breath Taking: A Memoir of Family, Dreams, and Broken GenesMusic credit: Limitless by Bells

Let's dive into the extraordinary life of bestselling author, Caroline Leavitt. You might know Caroline from one of her best selling novels like Days of Wonder, With or Without You, Cruel, Beautiful World, Pictures of You, just to name a few.But the story of Caroline's personal life is just as dramatic as any of her books. From family curses to medical miracles, From heartbreak to literary triumphs, Caroline has been through a lot. She's turned adversity into art, setbacks into stepping stones, and personal pain into powerful prose.She shares how embracing your inner Pollyanna isn't about blind optimism, but about finding the strength to keep moving forward. We explore the healing power of storytelling, The importance of persistence in the face of rejection and how sometimes the most powerful thing you can do is simply refuse to give up.Caroline also offers valuable insights into the publishing world and shares the story behind A Mighty Blaze, her initiative that connects writers to readers online.You'll learn:How persistence can be a superpower when facing repeated setbacksWhy embracing your 'inner Pollyanna' might be the key to finding happiness and successHow writing can serve as a powerful therapeutic tool for processing emotionsThe importance of refusing to give up, even when others expect you toWays to find gratitude and joy amidst sorrow and challengesHow creative problem-solving can transform obstacles into opportunitiesAnd so much more...Learn more about Caroline:WebsiteInstagram TikTok Psychology Today A Might BlazeRate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts "This is my go-to podcast for inspiration and to discover new approaches to embrace the challenges in my life." If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me reach more people -- just like you -- find strategies and insights to do the things that feel undoable. Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode! Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. Follow now! Sign up for my newsletter and learn more about these remarkable stories at www.jessicafeinstories.comOrder Jessica's memoir, Breath Taking: A Memoir of Family, Dreams, and Broken GenesMusic credit: Limitless by Bells

In this extraordinary episode of "I Don't Know How You Do It," we dive into the story of Kristin Jarvis Adams, which is both utterly unique and also relatable in so many ways. Kristin shares the story of her son Andrew's battle with a rare genetic condition and how an unexpected ally - a chicken named Frightful - became the key to his survival and healing. This tale of resilience, unconventional communication, and unwavering hope will challenge your perspective on what's possible in the face of seemingly insurmountable odds.You'll learn how to:Find joy in small moments, even during the darkest timesBe vulnerable and honest about your struggles to open doors for supportAllow your faith and spirituality to evolve during times of crisisSupport others in ways that really matterCultivate at least one reliable support person - your "3am peep"Actively seek hope, even in the most unexpected placesRecognize that traditional communication isn't the only path to understandingEmbrace the idea that 'normal' may need to be redefined in times of crisisTrust your instincts as a caregiver, even when they seem unconventionalFind more about Kristin:WebsiteInstagramFacebookRate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts "This is my go-to podcast for inspiration and to discover new approaches to embrace the challenges in my life." If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me reach more people -- just like you -- find strategies and insights to do the things that feel undoable. Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode! Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. Follow now! Sign up for my newsletter and learn more about these remarkable stories at www.jessicafeinstories.comOrder Jessica's memoir, Breath Taking: A Memoir of Family, Dreams, and Broken GenesMusic credit: Limitless by Bells

In this powerful and deeply moving episode, we sit down with Jessica Waite, author of the bestselling memoir "The Widow's Guide to Dead Bastards." Jessica shares her raw and honest account of navigating the complex emotions following her husband's sudden death and the subsequent discovery of his hidden life.Jessica's story is one of resilience, grace, and ultimately, hope. She offers valuable insights on dealing with betrayal, finding moments of peace in the midst of chaos, and the healing potential of embracing beauty even in our darkest times.You'll Learn:Why anger can be a useful part of the grieving process, and how to recognize when it becomes corrosive. How to use being present in the moment as a healing technique. How to put yourself in the way of beauty.How to change your perceptions and beliefs, and why you might want to. Why there may be a time for some healthy revenge, and how you might find forgiveness, too.And so much more...Find out more about Jessica Waite:WebsiteInstagramRate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts "This is my go-to podcast for inspiration and to discover new approaches to embrace the challenges in my life." If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me reach more people -- just like you -- find strategies and insights to do the things that feel undoable. Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode! Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. Follow now! Sign up for my newsletter and learn more about these remarkable stories at www.jessicafeinstories.comOrder Jessica's memoir, Breath Taking: A Memoir of Family, Dreams, and Broken GenesMusic credit: Limitless by Bells

In this milestone 75th episode, host Jessica Fein reflects on the journey of her podcast and announces a summer hiatus. As a special bonus for listeners, Jessica shares an excerpt from her memoir Breath Taking, reading a poignant piece about a memorable Fourth of July.Is it possible to find a taste of normalcy in the midst of parenting on the precipice? Jessica wants to give it a try. But what starts as a simple outing to see fireworks turns into a night of unexpected challenges - from getting lost in the woods and temporarily misplacing her son, to an emergency surgery for her daughter.Through this deeply personal anecdote, Jessica explores the complexities of parenting a child with serious medical needs while trying to maintain a semblance of typical family life. She touches on themes of guilt, fear, resilience, and the struggle to bridge the gap between her family's reality and the outside world.This episode offers listeners an intimate glimpse into Jessica's experiences and writing, perfectly encapsulating the podcast's mission of diving into lives that seem unimaginable from the outside. It's a fitting bookend to the season, leaving audiences with much to reflect on until the show's return in September.Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts "This is my go-to podcast for inspiration and to discover new approaches to embrace the challenges in my life." If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me reach more people -- just like you -- find strategies and insights to do the things that feel undoable. Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode! Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. Follow now! Sign up for my newsletter and learn more about these remarkable stories at www.jessicafeinstories.comOrder Jessica's memoir, Breath Taking: A Memoir of Family, Dreams, and Broken GenesMusic credit: Limitless by Bells

Does your life have a clear before and after? A single moment that changed everything irrevocably?That's what happened for Heather Straughter.In this deeply moving episode, Heather shares her journey of love, loss, and finding meaning after her son Jake's unexpected medical crisis and tragic passing. Heather's story begins when Jake was just eight months old and had his first seizure. From that moment, their lives were forever changed as they navigated the challenges of caring for a medically complex child.Heather takes us through the 117 days they spent in the hospital, the search for a diagnosis, and the profound shift in her identity as a mother. She shares the joys and struggles of parenting a child with special needs, the incredible bond she shared with Jake, and the devastating loss her family experienced when he passed away at just four years old.Through it all, Heather found strength, purpose, and a new perspective on life. She turned her pain into promise by founding Jake's Help From Heaven, a non-profit organization that has provided more than $1.7 million in grants to families with medically complex children.Heather's story is a testament to the power of a mother's love, the resilience of the human spirit, and the possibility of finding light in even the darkest of times.You'll learn:Why you should listen to the pit in your stomachHow it's your right to question doctors and share what's best for your familyThe beauty of focusing on what someone can do, rather than what they can'tWhy the comments that make us mad and make us hate the person who said them can be exactly what we need to hearThe value in sharing your journey, even -- and maybe especially -- in your darkest times Learn more about Heather:Jake's Help From Heaven Jake's Help From Heaven IGHeather on IGJake's Help From Heaven FBHeather on FBRate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts "This is my go-to podcast for inspiration and to discover new approaches to embrace the challenges in my life." If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me reach more people -- just like you -- find strategies and insights to do the things that feel undoable. Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode! Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. Follow now! Sign up for my newsletter and learn more about these remarkable stories at www.jessicafeinstories.comOrder Jessica's memoir, Breath Taking: A Memoir of Family, Dreams, and Broken GenesMusic credit: Limitless by Bells

How many times in life do we completely reinvent ourselves? How different can our life look five years from now by making 2 percent changes?In this inspiring episode, bestselling author Jean Meltzer shares her unique journey from Emmy-winning TV producer to rabbinical student to bestselling romance author. After becoming disabled by myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS), Jean had to reimagine her life and find new ways to create meaning and joy, even from her bed.Jean discusses how she shifted from chasing external goals to living her values, and how focusing on small incremental improvements transformed her life over time. She opens up about the challenges of being a disabled author and the importance of disability representation in fiction.Through her bestselling novels like The Matzo Ball and Mr. Perfect on Paper, Jean brings a much-needed perspective to the romance genre as both a Jewish and chronically ill writer. Jean's story is a powerful reminder that we can face incredible hardship and still find ways to lead joyful, purposeful lives. Her insights on resilience, career pivots, and redefining success will resonate with anyone who has confronted unexpected roadblocks. Jean's message is ultimately one of hope - that no matter where you are today, embracing your authentic self and taking small steps forward can lead to a life beyond your wildest dreams.You'll learn:How 2 percent increments of better can get you where you want to go. Why living your values is a better formula than setting dream goalsHow it's possible to create joy without even leaving your room for the long-termThe power of the question "where are you?"And so much more...Learn more about Jean:Jean's WebsiteFacebookInstagramSubstack: JeanMeltzer TikTok: JeanMeltzerThreads: JeanMeltzer Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts "This is my go-to podcast for inspiration and to discover new approaches to embrace the challenges in my life." If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me reach more people -- just like you -- find strategies and insights to do the things that feel undoable. Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode! Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. Follow now! Sign up for my newsletter and learn more about these remarkable stories at www.jessicafeinstories.comOrder Jessica's memoir, Breath Taking: A Memoir of Family, Dreams, and Broken GenesMusic credit: Limitless by Bells

How can we use ritual to create a life of joy and meaning when our world is turned upside down? What's a no-bullshit zone, and how can we dress ourselves in psychological teflon?Tune in to this conversation with Myra Sack, author of 57 Fridays, and find out.  When Myra's daughter Havi was diagnosed with a fatal neurodegenerative disease in 2019, Myra knew nothing would ever be the same. In this deeply moving conversation, Myra shares the sacred family rituals and "shabirthdays" that brought joy and holiness into their devastation.With candor and wisdom, Myra opens up about creating a "no bullshit zone" to shield her family, building "psychological teflon" to navigate the outside world, and the profound lesson that grieving is a way to keep expressing love. Myra also shares why she founded E-Motion, a nonprofit ensuring community, movement and ritual as rights for the grieving.Whether you're walking a path of loss or want to meaningfully support someone who is, Myra provides indispensable insights on:Inhabiting the "both/and" of grief and joyHow our loved ones can tell us what they need without wordsThe power of yearning over fear in griefIntegrating loss through small, manageable ritual actsWhy community is crucial, but so often lacking, for grieversHow workplaces can become grief-literate to better help employeesAnd so much moreLearn more about Myra:57 FridaysInstagramE-MotionRate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts "This is my go-to podcast for inspiration and to discover new approaches to embrace the challenges in my life." If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me reach more people -- just like you -- find strategies and insights to do the things that feel undoable. Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode! Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. Follow now! Sign up for my newsletter and learn more about these remarkable stories at www.jessicafeinstories.comOrder Jessica's memoir, Breath Taking: A Memoir of Family, Dreams, and Broken GenesMusic credit: Limitless by Bells

With a book and top-rated podcast that are both titled "Grief is a Sneaky Bitch," you might get a sense of Lisa Keefauver's irreverent humor and area of expertise. In this episode, we get all that and more. Lisa has been faced with repeated profound loss and grief and is a powerful voice showing us how to confront grief head-on and move forward rather than "move on." In this conversation, Lisa opens up about her late husband's  death, her own battle with cancer, and how she found light by becoming a "grief activist" who helps reimagine our narratives around loss.With her trademark warmth and humor, Lisa demonstrates how we can hold both sorrow and wonder at the same time, not as a Pollyanna illusion but as a way to turn towards our darkest experiences. She shares profound insights on speaking up for our grief, finding community and ritual to make it suck less, and tools we can use to nourish our mind and spirit for the road ahead. Whether you're personally grieving or want to support someone who is,  Lisa provides actionable advice  on how we can all hold space for the bereaved and bear witness to the profound experience of loss.You'll learn:The power of both/andHow to spot a grief thiefWhy our grief beliefs are set early on and how we can Marie Kondo them to serve us betterWhy grief is so sneakyWhy time is so confusing for grieversThe best ways to show up meaningfully for the people you care aboutHow to respond when someone says something hurtfulAnd so much more...Learn more about Lisa:Order the book Listen to the podcastSubscribe to the newsletterInstagramRate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts "This is my go-to podcast for inspiration and to discover new approaches to embrace the challenges in my life." If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me reach more people -- just like you -- find strategies and insights to do the things that feel undoable. Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode! Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. Follow now! Sign up for my newsletter and learn more about these remarkable stories at www.jessicafeinstories.comOrder Jessica's memoir, Breath Taking: A Memoir of Family, Dreams, and Broken GenesMusic credit: Limitless by Bells

If something looks wrong, feels wrong, or smells wrong...it's probably wrong.Meet Dawn Oates, a disability rights advocate, educator, and entrepreneur who has made it her mission to challenge disability discrimination and redefine what true inclusion looks like. Through her journey fighting for her daughter's rights, she's sparked ripples of change that are reshaping entire communities.Listen in as Dawn shares her playbook for turning obstacles into opportunities and refusing to stay small when faced with exclusion. From insisting on accessible playgrounds to taking on elite private schools, her story underscores the impact one person can have by persistently advocating their truth.You'll feel inspired by her unwavering optimism and creative approach to educating others about disability differences. Whether speaking up for your child or becoming an upstander for others, this episode will embolden you to create the inclusive world you wish to see.You'll learn:How to challenge discrimination with courage and strategic persistenceWhy it's important to educate from a place of optimism to open minds and heartsWhat to do when things feel a little too easyHow one person's actions can create ripples of changeAnd so much more...Learn more about Dawn:The Play Brigade WebsiteInstagramRate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts "This is my go-to podcast for inspiration and to discover new approaches to embrace the challenges in my life." If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me reach more people -- just like you -- find strategies and insights to do the things that feel undoable. Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode! Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. Follow now! Sign up for my newsletter and learn more about these remarkable stories at www.jessicafeinstories.comOrder Jessica's memoir, Breath Taking: A Memoir of Family, Dreams, and Broken GenesMusic credit: Limitless by Bells

When not one, but two of her children were diagnosed with devastating rare genetic disorders, Parvathy Krishnan's world was turned upside down. Her daughter battled multiple conditions for years before passing away just after her fourth birthday. And her teenage son is a five-time cancer survivor.In this profoundly moving and insightful episode, Parvathy pulls back the curtain on what it means to be a parent in constant crisis mode - the relentless anxiety, the hospital stays across multiple cities, and having to parent two children with rare diseases simultaneously.Yet Parvathy's story is ultimately one of incredible perseverance, radical hope, and unconditional love. With wisdom and candor, she discusses brutal concepts like "ambiguous living," and shares hard-won strategies for staying present and techniques like visualizing being "stuck in tar" to center yourself amid the unimaginable.Parvathy's journey has also sparked a new purpose - founding an advocacy organization to build support systems for other families facing ultra-rare diseases and catalyzing patient-centered care revolutions like insisting full medical teams round inside patient rooms.You'll learn:Why you should admit that things suckHow to start fixing things, even if you're still in your PJsHow to advocate for your care or the care of your childWhy being stuck in tar can be a good thingThe immense value that comes from sharingAnd so much more...Learn more about Parvathy:InstagramKrishnan Family FoundationRate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts "This is my go-to podcast for inspiration and to discover new approaches to embrace the challenges in my life." If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me reach more people -- just like you -- find strategies and insights to do the things that feel undoable. Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode! Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. Follow now! Sign up for my newsletter and learn more about these remarkable stories at www.jessicafeinstories.comOrder Jessica's memoir, Breath Taking: A Memoir of Family, Dreams, and Broken GenesMusic credit: Limitless by Bells

Can an extraordinary life of adventure and pushing boundaries lead someone to find fulfillment in the ordinary? In this riveting episode, we speak with Beth Rodden, a pioneering rock climber who has scaled some of the world's most challenging peaks. Beth takes us on her trailblazing journey, from shattering climbing records as one of the best female climbers of all time, to a terrifying kidnapping by armed militants in Kyrgyzstan that forced her to grapple with trauma, mental health struggles, and her very identity.With raw honesty, Beth opens up about her disordered eating, the challenges of motherhood for a professional athlete, and pushing past society's expectations of what a woman can or should do. Her story is one of resilience, growth, and redefining what it means to embrace a "softer strength." From the dizzying heights of climbing success to the depths of personal darkness after a difficult divorce, Beth's path reveals profound truths about finding purpose, joy and wonder in the ordinary moments of life.Key Takeaways:If your current strategies aren't working, look to your loved ones - their approach may inspire new solutions.The things you're passionate about don't have to be pursued in one narrow way. Find freedom in new perspectives.Listen closely to your body's signals before your mind catches up - it can prevent you from exceeding limits.Don't self-censor based on assumptions. Ask anyway - you may be surprised by people's supportive reactions.An extraordinary life can prepare you to deeply appreciate the beauty found in the ordinary.Learn more about Beth:WebsiteInstagramRate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts "This is my go-to podcast for inspiration and to discover new approaches to embrace the challenges in my life." If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me reach more people -- just like you -- find strategies and insights to do the things that feel undoable. Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode! Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. Follow now! Sign up for my newsletter and learn more about these remarkable stories at www.jessicafeinstories.comOrder Jessica's memoir, Breath Taking: A Memoir of Family, Dreams, and Broken GenesMusic credit: Limitless by Bells

What happens when your child's life depends on you parenting perfectly? How do you reconcile what it's like to live on the precipice all the time, with wanting to be a present and joyful person for your children, your partner, and your friends?On this episode, we sit down with Jessica Patay, author of the powerful new book "Becoming Brave Together." Jessica opens up about the constant vigilance required in caring for her son Ryan, who has Prader-Willi syndrome and shares why and how she formed a community for other moms with intense caregiving needs.Jessica's new book is an anthology amplifying 21 other caregiving mothers' stories as well. By elevating these diverse voices, she provides an invaluable perspective into the unseen battles and exceptional bravery of parents raising children with disabilities and chronic illnesses. Whether this is your world or not, Jessica's wisdom and the community she's cultivated offers insights and understanding that can change the world we live in.In this episode, you'll learn:How to find or form communityWhat you deserve as your birthrightWhy self-care isn't a curse wordHow to stay connected with the people who matter to youAnd so much more...Learn more about Jessica: WebsiteInstagramFacebook The Book Brave Together PodcasRate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts "This is my go-to podcast for inspiration and to discover new approaches to embrace the challenges in my life." If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me reach more people -- just like you -- find strategies and insights to do the things that feel undoable. Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode! Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. Follow now! Sign up for my newsletter and learn more about these remarkable stories at www.jessicafeinstories.comOrder Jessica's memoir, Breath Taking: A Memoir of Family, Dreams, and Broken GenesMusic credit: Limitless by Bells

Have you ever wished you had a guidebook to be by your side as you navigate the complexities of life? One that was written by a best friend, told you what to expect, and gave practical advice to help you through?That's exactly what Kelley Coleman has written in her book, "Everything No One Tells You About Parenting a Disabled Child." In this episode, Kelly shares her personal journey of raising a son with multiple disabilities and offers invaluable advice not only for parents navigating similar paths, but for every human who wants to understand how to interact with empathy and show up in meaningful ways for others.You'll learn: Why we should all be following people whose life experience is different from our own.  Who to turn to when you want to learn something about another community.What's a better strategy than  filling the air with words when you don't know what to say.  How and why to encourage self-advocacy in children.Why it's important to acknowledge the hard.And so much more...Learn more about Kelley:WebsiteInstagramFacebookRate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts "This is my go-to podcast for inspiration and to discover new approaches to embrace the challenges in my life." If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me reach more people -- just like you -- find strategies and insights to do the things that feel undoable. Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode! Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. Follow now! Sign up for my newsletter and learn more about these remarkable stories at www.jessicafeinstories.comOrder Jessica's memoir, Breath Taking: A Memoir of Family, Dreams, and Broken GenesMusic credit: Limitless by Bells

Any great movement requires not only the ability to generate creative ideas but also the skill of mobilizing people around those ideas and bringing them to life. How do you do that?Introducing Nell Merlino, a creative catalyst and trailblazer who has dedicated her life to advocating for women's empowerment and raising visibility and recognition of women and girls' contributions. With an impressive track record of mobilizing people and ideas, Nell brought Take Our Daughters to Work Day to life, reaching an astonishing 25 million people worldwide. As the founder of Count Me In for Women's Economic Independence, she also facilitated women's access to billion-dollar financing, grants, contracts, and markets. Nell's current project, Crown Quest, further amplifies women's achievements by creating beautiful visual tributes to their influence and impact.In this episode, you'll learn:The first step in taking an idea from theory to realityHow inspiration can be found in unexpected placesWhy we have to recognize our own valueWhat it means to be a lionessThe power of being able to read a roomLearn more about Nell here.Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts "This is my go-to podcast for inspiration and to discover new approaches to embrace the challenges in my life." If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me reach more people -- just like you -- find strategies and insights to do the things that feel undoable. Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode! Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. Follow now! Sign up for my newsletter and learn more about these remarkable stories at www.jessicafeinstories.comOrder Jessica's memoir, Breath Taking: A Memoir of Family, Dreams, and Broken GenesMusic credit: Limitless by Bells