TALK Down Syndrome

Debbie Miller is the author of "Raising Ricky," a memoir she wrote describing her journey advocating for her brother Ricky who not only has Down Syndrome but was recently diagnosed with Alzheimer's. Ricky was born in the 60's, in which Debbie gives us insight on how people with special needs were treated in the past and although support and aid for those with special needs has increased since then, we still have so much advocating to keep doing. Debbie now fights for new studies that highlights the importance of early detection of Alzheimer's Disease, especially for our older loved ones with Down Syndrome. Debbie is the perfect example of how advocating never stops.

We always have episodes discussing our journeys with our loved ones with special needs, but why don't we ever ask ourselves "how is our marriage or relationship going after having a child with special needs?" Often times the struggles and obstacles parents face having a child with special needs draws them further apart than closer. Today we dive into just that with Petra Rojas from The Counseling Couple. Her and her husband Alex run a faith based couples counseling and this topic has been widely seen in their sessions. How to navigate through marriage (with base of Christianity) on parenting a child that has special needs. More importantly how to come together as a team and strengthen your relationship. We are happy to have you listen to this episode today. May it give you perspective and gratitude and comfort in whatever you have going on in your life.

Not only is Talia one of my newest friends, but she is an amazing author who just released her first book called The Adventures of Sammy and Rosie Conquering Thunder Hill, which is book number one of her series. Her main characters Sammy and Rosie are created after her children and Rosie has Autism just like her daughter in real life. Join us on this episode as we get into deep discussion about why she wrote this book, parenting and navigating in today’s society as a special needs mother, and how Christ is the foundation of her passion and daily commitment to changing todays norms on disabilities, prayer, and children’s readings. This episode holds dear to my heart and I hope it gives you listeners a sense of ease and empowerment in whatever struggles you may be conquering yourself, such as Sammy and Rosie do in Talia’s book.

This TALK episode we have guests, Phillip and Ramona Gallegos from The Upside of Down Foundation. Phillip and Ramona created a fun way to advocate for their son, Zachary, through Golf Tournaments. Today we speak to them about their journey with Zachary and how golfing and awareness have come together. This one is a good one, you don't want to miss it.

Today we get to talk to Brady Murray, owner and founder of RODS Hero's. Becoming a parent to a child with special needs is not only by chance but can also be by choice. We at TALK Down Syndrome absolutely love those who are first to raise their hand to the task of taking on such a special duty to parent a child with special needs and RODS Hero's agree. That is why Brady Murray and his family created this organization to help individuals that want to step into parenting our little special ones who need family and love. Talk a moment to listen to this beautiful calling of love and community on today's episode.

Today we are kicking off World Down Syndrome Day, I would say SUPER early but only because when I think of WDSD I think of John's Crazy Socks. Today's episode features father and son duo, Mark and John Cronin owners and creators of John's Crazy Socks. When I first entered this community, I remember seeing John's Crazy Socks marketed everywhere online and it has finally come full circle where they are now on my podcast! It was such a joy to discuss how their business started as well getting to know more about John as an individual and I can tell you now, him and his dad have one heck of a relationship. What they have created is what all of us parents dream about, a successful business full of happiness, love, travel, and advocacy with our children. These two are quite a pair so take a listen to today's short but sweet episode of the journey of Mark and John Cronin of none other than the best socks in town, John's Crazy Socks. If you would like to see more of John and Mark visit these links: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dzPvxz1oUEA&feature=youtu.be John's Crazy Socks (johnscrazysocks.com) Hiring Those w/ Differing Abilities Is Good Business | John & Mark X. Cronin | TEDxLakeSuccessStudio (youtube.com)

Evelyn Acevedo is not only an amazing mom to her son Lincoln, but she has one empowered and determined woman. This lady found a problem with her and her city, and took the steps to make changes and to bring awareness for our down syndrome community. Take some time to listen to this episode. I guarantee you will be rushing to the computer to find ways that you can advocate in your hometown. You don’t want to miss this one as Evelyn will not only inspire me, but I’m sure she will inspire you as well.

Today I am introducing you guys to Courtney Sebastiano. Interestingly, Courtney’s first child Jaxon has Down syndrome. Courtney walks us through how courageous and resilient her newborn baby was as he faced aspiration issues, along with heart failure, and his first few months. Now a healthy, almost 3 years old little boy, alongside his brother, are just the most amazing and inspirational kids Courtney never knew she would be blessed with.

It took 7 months for Brandy to respond to my message on Facebook when I reached out to her to be a guest. Little did I know during that time, Brandy was embarking on her own journey of being a brand new mother to Brayden (who is diagnosed with Down Syndrome) but also learning about her own neurodiversity. Brandy shares with us how she maneuvers through social media taking down “trolls” and shining her own light of advocating for her two children.

This episode we do have just one special guest but TWO :) Dey, a mother to Adam who has Autism and Seleste, a mother to Genesis who has a dual diagnosis of Autism and Down Syndrome. Us three moms collaborate on what our diagnosis’ mean, how we maneuver through the struggles and triumphs in motherhood, and share our personal experiences of being super moms to our babies, and we learn something more about one another’s special child. It’s so wonderful to be able to share World Down Syndrome Day with the Autistic community. Because at the end of the day, no matter what diagnosis (or no diagnosis) we are all moms just trying to do our best and we can’t be our best without this kind of support, right? (This episode is dedicated to Everett Molino (15) who passed 3/15/23. Everett has Autism & we want to sincerely send our condolences to his family during this tragic time. 💙 May his beautiful soul rest peacefully.)

No special guest but just your host Chantele discussing certain instances in her journey that made her have a change in mind set. One, being told that as a parent of a child with Down syndrome we must always “fight” the school system. That is not always the case. Sometimes as parents we stand in the way of our own child’s happiness and growth. It’s important to see the whole picture. What a beautiful thing it is to know the truth, speak the truth, and grow from these experiences.

Azaiah, only 5 months old, has much to say to the world and much to poop! Come listen to Janelle's story of her son, Azaiah, and his struggles he had with Hirschsprung's disease which effects the baby passing stool, and just overcame surgery. Azaiah, born at 3 pounds 5 ounces brings inspiration to any other families out there that may be experiencing this disease or other struggles. This tiny baby has such a huge fight and I can’t wait for you to listen to his journey.

We kick off Down Syndrome awareness month by interviewing Lulu who is a mom to a fun energetic girl named Maya. Lulu spends time talking to us about her journey as Maya’s mother and helps us out on ways we can navigate through the IEP process & things she did that can make your educational plan better :)

Today we TALK Autism! We are switching it up a bit with today's episode. It is important to not only raise awareness on Down syndrome but to be aware of other special needs diagnosis, such as Autism. This is why I invited a friend of mine, Vanessa Gonzales (who's daughter Chloe is Autistic) to be a special guest on this episode. Vanessa shares a bit of insight on what it is like to have a child with Autism and the importance of listening to your inner mommy hunch by investigating signs that you may suspect your child may be different than other children. 

Who doesn't love GiGi's Playhouse? Well guess what? We have a new location opening in the beautiful Southern California and today we get to have on our episode Katie Gresko, Vice President (what what!!) of GiGi's Playhouse ORANGE COUNTY! Katie discusses how she got involved with GiGi''s Playhouse and how it has changed her life raising her first born Jack, who has Down syndrome. Take listen and hear Katie's backstory along with how you can start up your own GiGi's Playhouse or be apart of a team.  

This episode we have the beautiful, the strong, the boss babe herself Vanessa Delagarza of Amorcita Clothing. Vanessa joins us today to discuss her journey with her daughter, Amor, who has Down syndrome and shares how Amor gave her the inspiration to create her own clothing line. Amorcita Clothing not only gives an edgy look to our every day attire but contains words of strength and encouragement to parents and loved ones in the special needs community.  To find Vanessa and Amorcita Clothing go to: Instagram: Amorcitaofficial Website: www.amorcitaclothing.com 

On this episode we are celebrating World Down Syndrome Day 2022 with Tabia Kocks. Many of you know her as "Tabia the Model." Tabia (28 years old) has been interested in modeling since she was in High School and has turned herself in a full-time professional model. Tabia has been named Miss Washington from 2019-2021, been featured in British Vogue, and recently had her own story published by the National Down Syndrome Society. Tabia is all over social media making her mark in the fashion industry and today she joins us in a mini-interview about her life and send her message to the world that "She's Got This!"  You can find Tabia at: Website: https://www.tabiathemodel.com/ Instagram: TabiatheModel Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TabiaTheModel Subscribe to her Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCYanF5ErtmLUpNZLo0nLJVQ

Today is Saint Patrick's Day (2022) and there is no more LUCKIER way than to celebrate with HEATHER AVIS from "The Lucky Few," and " The Lucky Few Podcast." We welcome you to get to know more about Heather and how (along side Micha Boyett and Mercedes Lara) the Lucky Few was created. We also touch on her New York Times Best Seller; "Different - A Great Thing to Be!" which is a children's book she wrote in homage to her daughter Macyn that promotes diversity and inclusion.  You can find Heather and the Lucky Few Podcast at:  Website: https://www.theluckyfewpodcast.com/ Instagram: theluckyfewpod Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theluckyfewpod/ Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-lucky-few/id1349646917 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2vyYBz3vcnJrdQleuZLuxE You can find out more about her book at: https://www.heatheravis.com/different

TALK 21: Jesse Norell is a musician and dad from Minneapolis, Minnesota who just released his album “Aorta Borealis,” which is centered around his daughter, Alyssa, 6 years old, who has Down syndrome and a rare heart condition called Atrioventricular Septal Defect (AVSD) Join us in this interview with Jesse as he describes the tough and happy times since Alyssa’s birth and medical issues they have overcome and how that has inspired him to create this full album telling Alyssa’s story. To stream this amazing album (trust me you want to!) go to jessenorell.com/music 

We welcome back Melissa Steele from episode #2. This episode we get to catch up on how Melissa's journey has been so far since she gave birth to her beautiful baby girl Joey and her current views of what life is like being a mommy to a child with Down syndrome. (Spoiler Alert!- Remember last time she was nervous and a little scared of what her journey would be like, well ladies and gents, SHE IS DOING GREAT and Joey is growing just fabulously!) Take a listen as we go back in time to reflect Melissa's experience. 

Down the Lens is a theatre group that is online based that provides children and adults with learning difficulties a place where they an act, sing, and bring talents to the forefront as well as learn skills such as exploring emotions, creativity, and enhancing social and language skills. Down the Lens was created by Emily Curtis and her sister Sophie and today we get to speak with them both! 

This episode we gain mommy insight from guest speaker Amy Harrill. Amy is a mommy of two little angels, Abigail and Presley with her youngest, Abigail having Down Syndrome. Amy’s sister has special needs, so she used that platform to build her perspective on what is now the greatest journey of her life.

This episode we have Eric Lindsay, Director of Student Recruitment and Kevin Phillips, Advancement Officer from Shepherds College. Shepherds College, located in Union Grove, Wisconsin, is  three-year, post-secondary school for individuals with intellectual disabilities. Shepherds College does not only assist in educating and training their students to be self-sufficient aligning with their strengths, but they provide students so much more, such as showing students they are unique and important members of our world.  To find out more about Shepherds College please visit: www.https://shepherdscollege.edu/ 

On today's TALK episode we have founder of Voices of Change, Nicole Moehring. Voices of Change is a nonprofit organization dedicated to reducing the risk of sexual abuse of children with special needs through advocacy, preventative education, support, guidance, and resources. This episode has a trigger warning to our listeners as we discuss heavy topics of sexual abuse among our disabled community. Nicole not only shares her personal experience as mother to two children of special needs who are victims of sexual abuse, but also as an advocate for herself. Grab a tissue box or a sledge hammer, because this one got me ready for fight along side Nicole to protect our babies.  

Today we have an awesome dad on the show, Collin Judkins from the “Just Some Dads” podcast. Collin is sharing with us his journey as a new dad to a child with Down syndrome and shining new light on men’s mental health during the process.

This episode we celebrate mother hood. We have guest Laura Sharpe who is an expecting mama of a baby girl who she is naming Lucy and a new mama, Elexes who just had her little angel Dahlia Jayde.

It’s WORLD DOWN SYNDROME DAY! And we are celebrating with Kim Bhatnagar from Canada with her story about her little Tommy who is a fresh 10 months old. I just love new babies in our community. Come take a listen and celebrate a new life with us on this special day of DOWN SYNDROME!

This episode we are super lucky to have a discussion with the CEO of The Art of Runway, Renadda Wiggins. The Art of Runway is a program designed for people with special needs to learn about self-esteem, self-acceptance, and build confidence while learning runway skills and participating in fashion shows. Renadda gives us insight on working with the Down syndrome community as well as highlighting other special projects geared to assisting those with special needs. 

This episode I interview Aakriti  Gupta, youth leader for the Special Olympics Bharat Committee. Aakriti works hand-in-hand with siblings and family's with children with special needs and helps create innovative ways through fitness to inspire, connect, and keep family engagement thriving.  In this interview Aakriti gives us insight on how Down Syndrome is perceived in India and ways they are surviving the pandemic and COVID-19. 

It is October and it is down syndrome awareness month and we are sharing 21 inspirational stories of Down syndrome! WE DID IT GUYS! This is story 21! Take a listen to Stacy Federick as she talks about her newborn Luke and his inspiration on her life. 

It is October and it is down syndrome awareness month and we are sharing 21 inspirational stories of Down syndrome! This is story number 20. An amazing journey about Mika and her son Hudson. Hudson was a miracle before he even entered this world! Take a listen to their journey of love & triumph.

October is down syndrome awareness month and we are sharing 21 inspirational stories straight from our listeners. This is story #19. Take a listen to McKenzie as she gives us insight on how much her little Superman Kolesten has been an inspiration in her life.

October is down syndrome awareness month and this month we’re sharing 21 inspirational stories straight from our listeners.  This is story # 18. Today I speak with entrepreneurs, Victoria and Kristen (who is also Victoria's sister) about their business, Loomed with Love. Loomed with Love is a company that sells handcrafted accessories all created by Victoria. Their aim to spread awareness and support to unique communities such as Down Syndrome and Breast Cancer Awareness. And a portion of their proceeds go towards the NDSS

October is down syndrome awareness month and this month we’re sharing 21 inspirational stories straight from our listeners. This is story # 17. A beautiful story about a little man named Frankie. Join us as we talk to his mom, Jen, as she shares her little bundle of love & points out that no matter what your journey is, Down syndrome is truly amazing!

October is down syndrome awareness month and this month we’re sharing 21 inspirational stories straight from our listeners. This is story # 16, an interview with Cathy Tuggle Maple, from Alabama. Cathy, mom to a beautiful social butterfly named Molly, shares her story with us and how her daughter Molly is flourishing. 

October is down syndrome awareness month and this month we’re sharing 21 inspirational stories straight from our listeners. This is story # 15. Join us as I speak with Michelle Coleman as Michelle shares the story of Patrick, her 18 month old son that was blessed with Down Syndrome

October is down syndrome awareness month and this month we’re sharing 21 inspirational stories straight from our listeners. This is story # 14, an interview with author of the book “I Am Different, Just Like You,” Rebecca DalMolin. Rebecca shares her inspiration, her 8 year old daughter, Adella in hopes their story and book inspires you as well.

October is down syndrome awareness month and this month we’re sharing 21 inspirational stories straight from our listeners. This is story # 13. Anna, a mother from Kansas City, shares her inspiration, which is her soon to be 2 year old daughter, De’Asia.

October is Down Syndrome Awareness month & this month we are sharing 21 inspirational stories of Down Syndrome straight from our listeners. This is Story #12. This episode is a very special story about a mother named Nikki Brown. Nikki lost her newborn, Elijah, just at 4 months old. She shares her touching story of Elijah's impact, his strength in fighting back to back medical issues, and how her faith held her through one of the most difficult times of her life. 

October is Down Syndrome Awareness month & this month we are sharing 21 inspirational stories of Down Syndrome straight from our listeners. This is Story #11! This episode we share Nikki's story of her little baby Jaxson. He is a bright blue eyed, 7 month old who just brings Nikki and her family inspiration. 

October is Down Syndrome Awareness month & this month we are sharing 21 inspirational stories of Down Syndrome straight from our listeners. This is Story #10: This episode we talk to Ivy about her journey with her newborn Julia and how their family is strengthened by Down Syndrome. 

October is Down Syndrome Awareness month & this month we are sharing 21 inspirational stories of Down Syndrome straight from our listeners. This is Story #9: A positive and loving interview with Lee Packham. 

October is Down Syndrome Awareness month & this month we are sharing 21 inspirational stories of Down Syndrome straight from our listeners. This is Story #8: An educational interview with Maura Senneff on her perspective of ABA Therapy and Chinese Medicine.

October is Down Syndrome Awareness month & this month we are sharing 21 inspirational stories of Down Syndrome straight from our listeners. This is Story #7- Speaking with Margie Schabacker and her journey with her son Lane. 

October is Down Syndrome Awareness month & this month we are sharing 21 inspirational stories of Down Syndrome straight from our listeners. This is Story #6- An interview with Kyle Voltin. Creator of Xtraapoarel, a clothing company tailored to our Down Syndrome Community.

October is Down Syndrome Awareness month & this month we are sharing 21 inspirational stories of Down Syndrome straight from our listeners. This is Story #5- An interview with author (and yoga instructor) Ashely Asti of the book: Up, A Love Letter to the Down Syndrome Community and board member of Brittany's Baskets of Hope. 

October is Down Syndrome Awareness month & this month we are sharing 21 inspirational stories of Down Syndrome straight from our listeners. This is Story #4- An interview with Kelli Caughman, super mom and super advocate for her son Cree and others just like him. 

October is Down Syndrome Awareness month & this month we are sharing 21 inspirational stories of Down Syndrome straight from our listeners. This is Story #3- An interview with Gail Hamblin author of the book "More Alike Than Different, A Down Syndrome Tale." 

October is Down Syndrome Awareness month & this month we are sharing 21 inspirational stories of Down Syndrome straight from our listeners. This is Story 2- An inspirational photographer Daniel Murphy. 

October is Down Syndrome Awareness month & this month we are sharing 21 inspirational stories of Down Syndrome straight from our listeners. This is Story 1- Cheyenne Rea Holm