91. This Trick Isn't Cheating! It's A Tool. by aVERY BRIGHT LIFE

96. Why We Love Cheer

If you have a child with developmental disabilities, you might want to check out cheerleading. This sport is active, accessible, inclusive, empowering, highly social, and a lot of fun.

In this episode we talk about our experience with cheer and Avery hops on to explain what she loves about this sport.

This episode was prerecorded and will air on the day Avery's team competes at the World Cheer Competition in Florida. Go Team Canada!!

***

This podcast was recorded in Garageband and edited by Lisa Thornbury (with assistance from Avery)

And, come chat with us on social! No seriously, c'mon over! It's fun there.

Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠@LisaThornbury⁠⁠⁠⁠

Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠aVERY Bright life⁠⁠⁠⁠ (formerly Forever In Mom Genes)

Questions or Partnership Inquiries: averybrightlife@gmail.com

Have a comment, question, episode suggestion or just want to say hello? We’d love to hear from you! Message us old-timey style by commenting on our ⁠⁠⁠⁠podcast page⁠⁠⁠⁠. Or show us your techie and leave an AUDIO message via the ⁠⁠⁠⁠Anchor messaging button⁠⁠⁠⁠! We might even use your voice message in an upcoming episode!

Thanks for listening. 💜

95. Mom Meh

I'm feeling a little "meh" lately. Not happy, not sad. Just flat. Maybe you can relate?

***

This podcast was recorded in Garageband and edited by Lisa Thornbury (with assistance from Avery)

And, come chat with us on social! No seriously, c'mon over! It's fun there.

Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠@LisaThornbury⁠⁠⁠

Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠aVERY Bright life⁠⁠⁠ (formerly Forever In Mom Genes)

Questions or Partnership Inquiries: averybrightlife@gmail.com

Have a comment, question, episode suggestion or just want to say hello? We’d love to hear from you! Message us old-timey style by commenting on our ⁠⁠⁠podcast page⁠⁠⁠. Or show us your techie and leave an AUDIO message via the ⁠⁠⁠Anchor messaging button⁠⁠⁠! We might even use your voice message in an upcoming episode!

Thanks for listening. 💜

94. The Dark Side of Dischord And Other Chat Apps

I don't love talking about the dark stuff. But I feel like the more we know, the better prepared we are to protect our vulnerable kids.

*Content Warning—not for younger or sensitive listeners.

***

This podcast was recorded in Garageband and edited by Lisa Thornbury (with assistance from Avery)

And, come chat with us on social! No seriously, c'mon over! It's fun there.

Instagram: ⁠⁠@LisaThornbury⁠⁠

Facebook: ⁠⁠aVERY Bright life⁠⁠ (formerly Forever In Mom Genes)

Questions or Partnership Inquiries: averybrightlife@gmail.com

Have a comment, question, episode suggestion or just want to say hello? We’d love to hear from you! Message us old-timey style by commenting on our ⁠⁠podcast page⁠⁠. Or show us your techie and leave an AUDIO message via the ⁠⁠Anchor messaging button⁠⁠! We might even use your voice message in an upcoming episode!

Thanks for listening. 💜

93. REPOST of Happy Things Are Everywhere

We're reposting an old episode this week. Mama's got a sore throat and sounds like a toad, so Avery is helping out with the intro. Please enjoy this happy little episode from 2021.

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Hey! It's Sponge Lisa Tight Pants here. We spongey empath types tend to soak up the vibe around us so when the world is hurting, we hurt too. So, in an effort to avoid dwelling on the dark and heavy feelings, we're trying to highlight some of the bright, fluffy, happy, cute things that are all around us.

Based on the popular and positive TikTok trend where people are listing the little inconsequential things that people do that make them happy, this is our list.

We'd love to hear what little human (or animal) behaviours bring you joy.

Read: ⁠Sponge Lisa Tight Pants⁠

***

This podcast was recorded in Garageband and edited by Lisa Thornbury (with assistance from Avery)

Read more and find the transcript for this episode at ⁠averybrightlife.com⁠.

And, come chat with us on social! No seriously, c'mon over! It's fun there.

Instagram: ⁠@LisaThornbury⁠

Facebook: ⁠aVERY Bright life⁠ (formerly Forever In Mom Genes)

Questions or Partnership Inquiries: averybrightlife@gmail.com

Have a comment, question, episode suggestion or just want to say hello? We’d love to hear from you! Message us old-timey style by commenting on our ⁠podcast page⁠. Or show us your techie and leave an AUDIO message via the ⁠Anchor messaging button⁠! We might even use your voice message in an upcoming episode!

Thanks for listening. 💜

92. Everything No One Tells You About Parenting A Disabled Child: A Conversation With Kelley Coleman

Kelley wrote the book we've all needed! It's going to become a go-to handbook for so many parents. I wish there had been something like it when we were starting out on our disability parenting journey. I felt pretty alone and lost back then (and still feel that way from time to time, even now). This book is going to spare so many parents from that feeling.

I hope you'll have a listen to this longer than usual episode. We talk about the book, get to know more about Kelley (spoiler alert: she's awesome), and connect over our mutual love of tacos and to-do lists.

Visit Kelley here: kelleycoleman.com

Order her book here: amazon.ca

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This podcast was recorded in Garageband and edited by Lisa Thornbury (with assistance from Avery Thornbury).

Read more and find the transcript for this episode at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠averybrightlife.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

And, come chat with us on social! No seriously, c'mon over! It's fun there.

Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@LisaThornbury⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠aVERY Bright life⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Twitter: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@LisaThornbury⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Questions or Partnership Inquiries: averybrightlife@gmail.com

Have a comment, question, episode suggestion or just want to say hello? We’d love to hear from you! Message us on Instagram or send us an email. Or, show off your techie prowess and leave an AUDIO message via the ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Spotify for Podcasters Message Button⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. We might even use your voice message in an upcoming episode!

Thanks for listening. 💜

91. This Trick Isn't Cheating! It's A Tool.

Phone conversations and video calls, especially for folks with communication disorders and developmental disabilities, can feel awkward and frustrating. We have some strategies that have really helped us over here, so we’re sharing them here.

Plus, Avery pops in to share a bit about herself while demonstrating how to use "magic words." FYI... She recorded this segment completely independently!

Get your FREE and fully editable Chat Chart here

****

This podcast was recorded in Garageband and edited by Lisa Thornbury (with assistance from Avery Thornbury).

Read more and find the transcript for this episode at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠averybrightlife.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

And, come chat with us on social! No seriously, c'mon over! It's fun there.

Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@LisaThornbury⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠aVERY Bright life⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Twitter: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@LisaThornbury⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Questions or Partnership Inquiries: averybrightlife@gmail.com

Have a comment, question, episode suggestion or just want to say hello? We’d love to hear from you! Message us on Instagram or send us an email. Or, show off your techie prowess and leave an AUDIO message via the ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Spotify for Podcasters Message Button⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. We might even use your voice message in an upcoming episode!

Thanks for listening. 💜

90. Not Judging But... Let's Have A Word About Words

What is my problem? Why do your word choices affect me? And why does it bug me? I think I know and it doesn’t exactly paint me in the best light. But, I’m going to tell it like it is because maybe you feel the same way as I do. Or maybe you've seen me go off about certain terms and you think, “What a total Karen McJudgey Pants.” I don’t blame you. But maybe if you hear why I react like this, it’ll make sense? Let’s talk about it and see where we all land on this.

*Adult Language

Mentioned in this episode:

I've Had It Podcast: Jan 4/24 (And agreed! "Brekkie" is the worst!)

ABL Episode 2-Not Special

ABL Episode 69-New (to us) Disability Language

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This podcast was recorded in Garageband and edited by Lisa Thornbury (with assistance from Avery Thornbury).

Read more and find the transcript for this episode at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠averybrightlife.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

And, come chat with us on social! No seriously, c'mon over! It's fun there.

Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@LisaThornbury⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠aVERY Bright life⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Twitter: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@LisaThornbury⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Questions or Partnership Inquiries: averybrightlife@gmail.com

Have a comment, question, episode suggestion or just want to say hello? We’d love to hear from you! Message us on Instagram or send us an email. Or, show off your techie prowess and leave an AUDIO message via the ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Spotify for Podcasters Message Button⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. We might even use your voice message in an upcoming episode!

Thanks for listening. 💜

****

Keywords for searchiness: disability, disabled kids, developmental disabilities, intellectual disability, parenting, neurodivergent, special needs, epilepsy, seizures, hypotonia, chromosome disorder, speech delay, end ableism, disability family, parenting podcast, mother daughter podcast, kid podcaster, disability podcast, special needs podcast

89. Epilepsy Imposter

Have you ever felt, not fake exactly, but maybe a little extra? I've felt like this about epilepsy over the years. But I'm not an imposter, especially after what happened last week.

This episode isn't particularly "sweary" but I still put an explicit rating on it because I talk about seizures, which can be upsetting for younger listeners (and 53 year old moms).

****

This podcast was recorded in Garageband and edited by Lisa Thornbury (with assistance from Avery Thornbury).

And, come chat with us on social! No seriously, c'mon over! It's fun there.

Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠@LisaThornbury⁠⁠⁠⁠

Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠aVERY Bright life⁠⁠⁠⁠

Twitter: ⁠⁠⁠⁠@LisaThornbury⁠⁠⁠⁠

Questions or Partnership Inquiries: averybrightlife@gmail.com

Have a comment, question, episode suggestion or just want to say hello? We’d love to hear from you! Message us on Instagram or send us an email. Or, show off your techie prowess and leave an AUDIO message via the ⁠⁠⁠⁠Spotify for Podcasters Message Button⁠⁠⁠⁠. We might even use your voice message in an upcoming episode!

Thanks for listening. 💜

****

Keywords for searchiness: disability, disabled kids, developmental disabilities, intellectual disability, parenting, neurodivergent, special needs, epilepsy, seizures, hypotonia, chromosome disorder, speech delay, end ableism, disability family, parenting podcast, mother daughter podcast, kid podcaster, disability podcast, special needs podcast

88. Seizure Plan, Sugar Shows, And Sharey Christmas

Create your own Seizure Action Plan (SAP) or Medical Action Plan using our free customizable template. In this episode we also talk about our list of go-to "Carrot Shows", which are movies and tv shows that are somewhat nutritious for kids' brains, and a fairly entertaining break from their fave "Sugar Shows." We end the episode talking about why Lisa isn't a total Grinch, even though she's not giving gifts this year. Well, with the exception of THESE gifts.

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This podcast was recorded in Garageband and edited by Lisa Thornbury (with assistance from Avery Thornbury).

And, come chat with us on social! No seriously, c'mon over! It's fun there.

Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠@LisaThornbury⁠⁠⁠

Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠aVERY Bright life⁠⁠⁠

Twitter: ⁠⁠⁠@LisaThornbury⁠⁠⁠

Questions or Partnership Inquiries: averybrightlife@gmail.com

Have a comment, question, episode suggestion or just want to say hello? We’d love to hear from you! Message us on Instagram or send us an email. Or, show off your techie prowess and leave an AUDIO message via the ⁠⁠⁠Spotify for Podcasters Message Button⁠⁠⁠. We might even use your voice message in an upcoming episode!

Thanks for listening. 💜

****

Keywords for searchiness: disability, disabled kids, developmental disabilities, intellectual disability, parenting, neurodivergent, special needs, epilepsy, seizures, hypotonia, chromosome disorder, speech delay, end ableism, disability family, parenting podcast, mother daughter podcast, kid podcaster, disability podcast, special needs podcast

87. This Is Why My Mom Is The Way She Is

*Trigger Warning for childhood trauma

I think everyone has traumatic events in their past that play a part in shaping who they are as adults and even how they parent. There were two specific tragedies that happened when I was young. Once you hear what they are, you might better understand why I am the way I am... spoiler alert—over-protective to the max. In this mish-mash episode I talk about that and also about some of the ways I question my parenting.

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This podcast was recorded in Garageband and edited by Lisa Thornbury (with assistance from Avery Thornbury).

And, come chat with us on social! No seriously, c'mon over! It's fun there.

Instagram: ⁠⁠@LisaThornbury⁠⁠

Facebook: ⁠⁠aVERY Bright life⁠⁠

Twitter: ⁠⁠@LisaThornbury⁠⁠

Questions or Partnership Inquiries: averybrightlife@gmail.com

Have a comment, question, episode suggestion or just want to say hello? We’d love to hear from you! Message us on Instagram or send us an email. Or, show off your techie prowess and leave an AUDIO message via the ⁠⁠Spotify for Podcasters Message Button⁠⁠. We might even use your voice message in an upcoming episode!

Thanks for listening. 💜

****

Keywords for searchiness: disability, disabled kids, developmental disabilities, intellectual disability, parenting, neurodivergent, special needs, epilepsy, seizures, hypotonia, chromosome disorder, speech delay, end ableism, disability family, parenting podcast, mother daughter podcast, kid podcaster, disability podcast, special needs podcast

86. Where The Heck Do We Go Now?

⁠Do I know what I'm doing? Not really. But am I trying to figure it out? Of course! Raising a child with developmental disabilities is a life full of love, but it isn't always easy. Especially when information and resources and supports are all over the place and the red tape is thick. In this shortie episode I share how none of us really know what we're doing. And THIS is why I'm on a mission to share the good stuff whenever I stumble upon it.

Mentioned in the episode:

@MomentsOfJoyPodcast Instagram reel 😢

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This podcast was recorded in Garageband and edited by Lisa Thornbury (with assistance from Avery Thornbury).

Read more and find the transcript for this episode at ⁠averybrightlife.com⁠.

And, come chat with us on social! No seriously, c'mon over! It's fun there.

Instagram: ⁠@LisaThornbury⁠

Facebook: ⁠aVERY Bright life⁠

Twitter: ⁠@LisaThornbury⁠

Questions or Partnership Inquiries: averybrightlife@gmail.com

Have a comment, question, episode suggestion or just want to say hello? We’d love to hear from you! Message us on Instagram or send us an email. Or, show off your techie prowess and leave an AUDIO message via the ⁠Spotify for Podcasters Message Button⁠. We might even use your voice message in an upcoming episode!

Thanks for listening. 💜

****

Keywords for searchiness: disability, disabled kids, developmental disabilities, intellectual disability, parenting, neurodivergent, special needs, epilepsy, seizures, hypotonia, chromosome disorder, speech delay, end ableism, disability family, parenting podcast, mother daughter podcast, kid podcaster, disability podcast, special needs podcast

85. CTSD or cPTSD...Trauma's Trauma, Mama

We've all heard of PTSD, but have you heard of CTSD or C-PTSD? The "C" has historically stood for "Complex." Some parents have added "Chronic" to the definition.

Whether it's lingering trauma to varying degrees or persistent worry about the future, many caregivers live with an unhealthy level of anxiety. And though the stress is often warranted, it needs to be managed. Let's chat about it.

Links Mentioned In This Episode:

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This podcast was recorded in Garageband and edited by Lisa Thornbury (with assistance from Avery Thornbury).

Read more and find the transcript for this episode at averybrightlife.com.

And, come chat with us on social! No seriously, c'mon over! It's fun there.

Instagram: @LisaThornbury

Facebook: aVERY Bright life

Twitter: @LisaThornbury

Questions or Partnership Inquiries: averybrightlife@gmail.com

Have a comment, question, episode suggestion or just want to say hello? We’d love to hear from you! Message us on Instagram or send us an email. Or, show off your techie prowess and leave an AUDIO message via the Spotify for Podcasters Message Button. We might even use your voice message in an upcoming episode!

Thanks for listening. 💜

****

Keywords for searchiness: disability, disabled kids, developmental disabilities, intellectual disability, parenting, neurodivergent, special needs, epilepsy, seizures, hypotonia, chromosome disorder, speech delay, end ableism, disability family, parenting podcast, mother daughter podcast, kid podcaster, disability podcast, special needs podcast

84. Oh Rats, It's Creepy Creeps

Most men are lovely. But sadly, a handful of them are dangerous. We've happened upon a few of those ones recently so I've had to explain to my daughter HOW and WHY she always needs to be cautious. I hate this for her. For all girls. But this is what we do as parents (especially as mamas of daughters with disabilities). We teach them as best we can to keep them as safe as possible. Even if it means forgoing a bike ride into the woods because there's a "creepy" man in there.

Also, are you as afraid of rodents as I am? Probably not. Outside animals need to stay OUTSIDE. And. cats are a-holes.

⁠Episode 9. Keeping Our Kids Safe: Abuse In The Disability Community⁠

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This podcast was recorded in Garageband and edited by Lisa Thornbury (with assistance from Avery Thornbury).

Read more and find the transcript for this episode at averybrightlife.com.

And, come chat with us on social! No seriously, c'mon over! It's fun there.

Instagram: @LisaThornbury

Facebook: aVERY Bright life

Twitter: @LisaThornbury

Questions or Partnership Inquiries: averybrightlife@gmail.com

Have a comment, question, episode suggestion or just want to say hello? We’d love to hear from you! Message us on Instagram or send us an email. Or, show off your techie prowess and leave an AUDIO message via the Spotify for Podcasters Message Button. We might even use your voice message in an upcoming episode!

Thanks for listening. 💜

****

Keywords for searchiness: disability, disabled kids, developmental disabilities, intellectual disability, parenting, neurodivergent, special needs, epilepsy, seizures, hypotonia, chromosome disorder, speech delay, end ableism, disability family, parenting podcast, mother daughter podcast, kid podcaster, disability podcast, special needs podcast

83. Inclusion Delusion

We're baaaaaack and starting this season off with a topic that's been on my mind for a while... inclusion.

Seems like a positive topic, right? WRONG. I mean, the idea of inclusion is on the right track, but actual inclusion? It's a bit of an illusion sometimes. But it doesn't have to be that way...

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This podcast was recorded in Garageband and edited by Lisa Thornbury (with assistance from Avery Thornbury).

And, come chat with us on social! No seriously, c'mon over! It's fun there.

Instagram: @LisaThornbury

Facebook: aVERY Bright life

Twitter: @LisaThornbury

Questions or Partnership Inquiries: averybrightlife@gmail.com

Have a comment, question, episode suggestion or just want to say hello? We’d love to hear from you! Message us on Instagram or send us an email. Or, show off your techie prowess and leave an AUDIO message via the Spotify for Podcasters Message Button. We might even use your voice message in an upcoming episode!

Thanks for listening. 💜

****

Keywords for searchiness: disability, disabled kids, developmental disabilities, intellectual disability, parenting, neurodivergent, special needs, epilepsy, seizures, hypotonia, chromosome disorder, speech delay, end ableism, disability family, parenting podcast, mother daughter podcast, kid podcaster, disability podcast, special needs podcast

82. We Can't Believe THIS Happened (AND... Summer Hiatus Alert)

"Disability Parent Advocate Life" can feel exhausting. But then sh*t like this happens and it's all so worth it. In this episode we share the thing... the pretty incredible thing that happened as a result of this little podcast. PLUS... heads up, we've gone fishing. Not literally because we don't fish. But we've taken off for the summer to rest, relax, work (Avery has a job) and do all the summery things (minus actual fishing). See you back here with bells on, September 7th!

Mentioned In This Episode: Ep 80 Data Discrimination

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This podcast was recorded in Garageband and edited by Lisa Thornbury (with assistance from Avery Thornbury).

Read more and find the transcript for this episode at averybrightlife.com.

And, come chat with us on social! No seriously, c'mon over! It's fun there.

Instagram: @LisaThornbury

Facebook: aVERY Bright life

Twitter: @LisaThornbury

Questions or Partnership Inquiries: averybrightlife@gmail.com

Have a comment, question, episode suggestion or just want to say hello? We’d love to hear from you! Message us on Instagram or send us an email. Or, show off your techie prowess and leave an AUDIO message via the Spotify for Podcasters Message Button. We might even use your voice message in an upcoming episode!

Thanks for listening. 💜

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Keywords for searchy-ness: disability, disabled kids, developmental disabilities, intellectual disability, parenting, neurodivergent, special needs, epilepsy, seizures, hypotonia, chromosome disorder, speech delay, end ableism, disability family, parenting podcast, mother daughter podcast, kid podcaster, disability podcast, special needs podcast

81. One Love, Two Ducks

It’s shocking when you witness hateful people revealing themselves. And it’s gross to know that many of them are parents because… hate is learned. Kids aren’t born like that. They LEARN to hate and to discriminate by listening to and watching their parents. In this episode we tackle the topic of how intellectually and developmentally disabled people often view dating, gender labels, and "ONE LOVE". It's a lesson EVERYONE can learn from.

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This podcast was recorded in Garageband and edited by Lisa Thornbury (with assistance from Avery Thornbury).

And, come chat with us on social! No seriously, c'mon over! It's fun there.

Instagram: @LisaThornbury

Facebook: aVERY Bright life

Twitter: @LisaThornbury

Questions or Partnership Inquiries: averybrightlife@gmail.com

Have a comment, question, episode suggestion or just want to say hello? We’d love to hear from you! Message us on Instagram or send us an email. Or, show off your techie prowess and leave an AUDIO message via the Spotify for Podcasters Message Button. We might even use your voice message in an upcoming episode!

Thanks for listening. 💜

****

Keywords for searchy-ness: disability, disabled kids, developmental disabilities, intellectual disability, parenting, neurodivergent, special needs, epilepsy, seizures, hypotonia, chromosome disorder, speech delay, end ableism, disability family, parenting podcast, mother daughter podcast, kid podcaster, disability podcast, special needs podcast

80. Data Discrimination

For disabled teens and adults, having a cell phone goes beyond just convenience or entertainment—it can be a lifeline to independence, safety and #accessibility.

Shame on Canadian cell carriers for making cell/data plans inaccessible for so many families. There are ways to remove this financial barrier to what should be a fundamental right. Let's talk about it.

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This podcast was recorded in Garageband and edited by Lisa Thornbury (with assistance from Avery Thornbury).

And, come chat with us on social! No seriously, c'mon over! It's fun there.

Instagram: @LisaThornbury

Facebook: aVERY Bright life

Twitter: @LisaThornbury

Questions or Partnership Inquiries: averybrightlife@gmail.com

Have a comment, question, episode suggestion or just want to say hello? We’d love to hear from you! Message us on Instagram or send us an email. Or, show off your techie prowess and leave an AUDIO message via the Spotify for Podcasters Message Button. We might even use your voice message in an upcoming episode!

Thanks for listening. 💜

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Keywords for searchy-ness: disability, disabled kids, developmental disabilities, intellectual disability, parenting, neurodivergent, special needs, epilepsy, seizures, hypotonia, chromosome disorder, speech delay, end ableism, disability family, parenting podcast, mother daughter podcast, kid podcaster, disability podcast, special needs podcast

79. Overbearing "Momster"

We don't mean to be "Momsters." Our intentions are good, but overstepping and taking over isn't doing anyone any favours. Do you recognize yourself here? Acknowledging that we "occasionally" do this, is the first step in maybe letting go of the reins a little.

Mentioned in this episode: I've Had It Podcast (so good, so relatable and so hilarious!)

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This podcast was recorded in Garageband and edited by Lisa Thornbury (with assistance from Avery Thornbury).

Read more and find the transcript for this episode at averybrightlife.com.

And, come chat with us on social! No seriously, c'mon over! It's fun there.

Instagram: @LisaThornbury

Facebook: aVERY Bright life

Twitter: @LisaThornbury

Questions or Partnership Inquiries: averybrightlife@gmail.com

Have a comment, question, episode suggestion or just want to say hello? We’d love to hear from you! Message us on Instagram or send us an email. Or, show off your techie prowess and leave an AUDIO message via the Spotify for Podcasters Message Button. We might even use your voice message in an upcoming episode!

Thanks for listening. 💜

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Keywords for searchy-ness: disability, disabled kids, developmental disabilities, intellectual disability, parenting, neurodivergent, special needs, epilepsy, seizures, hypotonia, chromosome disorder, speech delay, end ableism, disability family, parenting podcast, mother daughter podcast, kid podcaster, disability podcast, special needs podcast

78. Just Shush And Don't Be A Ham Sandwich Of A Human

This idea for this episode came from a new comment left on an old post I wrote a decade ago. It was a story about a mom and daughter out doing their thing in the world and feeling stung by the judgement of others. Reading it years later, from a new perspective, I can see how our behaviour could be perceived as entitled or at least annoying. Comments about that I can handle. But the comment left by a stranger based in ableist bigoted hatred? That I can’t handle. So I’m calling it out because for every “Ham Sandwich Human,” there are a hundred people who think like him, but just don’t say it out loud.

Warning: Adult Language

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This podcast was recorded in Garageband and edited by Lisa Thornbury (with assistance from Avery Thornbury).

And, come chat with us on social! No seriously, c'mon over! It's fun there.

Instagram: @LisaThornbury

Facebook: aVERY Bright life

Twitter: @LisaThornbury

Questions or Partnership Inquiries: averybrightlife@gmail.com

Have a comment, question, episode suggestion or just want to say hello? We’d love to hear from you! Message us on Instagram or send us an email. Or, show off your techie prowess and leave an AUDIO message via the Spotify for Podcasters Message Button. We might even use your voice message in an upcoming episode!

Thanks for listening. 💜

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Keywords for searchy-ness: disability, disabled kids, developmental disabilities, intellectual disability, parenting, neurodivergent, special needs, epilepsy, seizures, hypotonia, chromosome disorder, speech delay, end ableism, disability family, parenting podcast, mother daughter podcast, kid podcaster, disability podcast, special needs podcast

77. Thirsty Monkey

In the words of the Bare Naked Ladies, haven't you always wanted a monkey? Be careful what you wish for though because monkeys are difficult. Especially the thirsty ones. Know what I mean? No? Have a listen to this episode and see if you might also have a thirsty caged monkey (or ten) in your basement.

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This podcast was recorded in Garageband and edited by Lisa Thornbury (with assistance from Avery Thornbury).

And, come chat with us on social! No seriously, c'mon over! It's fun there.

Instagram: @LisaThornbury

Facebook: aVERY Bright life

Twitter: @LisaThornbury

Questions or Partnership Inquiries: averybrightlife@gmail.com

Have a comment, question, episode suggestion or just want to say hello? We’d love to hear from you! Message us on Instagram or send us an email. Or, show off your techie prowess and leave an AUDIO message via the Spotify for Podcasters Message Button. We might even use your voice message in an upcoming episode!

Thanks for listening. 💜

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Keywords for searchy-ness: disability, disabled kids, developmental disabilities, intellectual disability, parenting, neurodivergent, special needs, epilepsy, seizures, hypotonia, chromosome disorder, speech delay, end ableism, disability family, parenting podcast, mother daughter podcast, kid podcaster, disability podcast, special needs podcast

76. Two Year Podiversary: A Behind the Scenes Story Time

It's our 2 year podiversary! So today we're sharing some behind the scenes insights into this podcast and podcasting in general. At the 24 minute mark Lisa attempts to explain how anyone can create their own podcast easily and for free.

Thank you for listening today and for the past two years! We're excited to embark on year three! Giddy-up. Let's do this thing!

As mentioned in this episode:

Please let us know what disability family focussed podcasts we should add to the growing list on our resource page HERE

Check out the She 2.0 Podcast HERE

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This podcast was recorded in Garageband and edited by Lisa Thornbury.

Read more and find the transcript for this episode at averybrightlife.com.

And, come chat with us on social! No seriously, c'mon over! It's fun there.

Instagram: @LisaThornbury

Facebook: aVERY Bright life

Twitter: @LisaThornbury

Questions or Partnership Inquiries: averybrightlife@gmail.com

Have a comment, question, episode suggestion or just want to say hello? We’d love to hear from you! Message us on Instagram or send us an email. Or, show off your techie prowess and leave an AUDIO message via the Spotify for Podcasters Message Button. We might even use your voice message in an upcoming episode!

Thanks for listening. 💜

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Keywords for searchy-ness: disability, disabled kids, developmental disabilities, intellectual disability, parenting, neurodivergent, special needs, epilepsy, seizures, hypotonia, chromosome disorder, speech delay, end ableism, disability family, parenting podcast, mother daughter podcast, kid podcaster, disability podcast, special needs podcast

75. Take Our Epilepsy Fact or Fiction Quiz

Kermit claims it's not easy being green. I challenge him to try being purple for a minute. "Purple People" live with epilepsy—they either have the neurological disorder themselves, or they love somebody who does. This is our second epilepsy focussed episode, which includes a ten question quiz to test your epilepsy knowledge. Our hope is that by sharing what we're learning, we can help get people talking, thinking and caring about epilepsy. Our guest Lisa Gray joins us to share her personal connection to epilepsy and talks about her role at ⁠epilepsy.ca⁠.

Thank you Epilepsy Canada for partnering with us for this very special episode in honour of Epilepsy Awareness Month. 💜

⁠Episode 44: All About Epilepsy⁠

⁠Faces of Epilepsy⁠

⁠Podcast: Seizing Life⁠

⁠Ways to take action⁠

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This podcast was recorded in Garageband and edited by Lisa Thornbury.

Read more and find the transcript for this episode at averybrightlife.com.

And, come chat with us on social! No seriously, c'mon over! It's fun there.

Instagram: @LisaThornbury

Facebook: aVERY Bright life

Twitter: @LisaThornbury

Questions or Partnership Inquiries: averybrightlife@gmail.com

Have a comment, question, episode suggestion or just want to say hello? We’d love to hear from you! Message us on Instagram or send us an email. Or, show off your techie prowess and leave an AUDIO message via the Spotify for Podcasters Message Button. We might even use your voice message in an upcoming episode!

Thanks for listening. 💜

****

Keywords for searchy-ness: mental health, take a break, self care, burned out, disability, disabled kids, developmental disabilities, intellectual disability, parenting, special needs, epilepsy, seizures, hypotonia, chromosome disorder, speech delay, end ableism, disability family, parenting podcast, mother daughter podcast, kid podcaster

74. Dealing With Fear: Disability Parent Addition

This episode is about FEAR. But don’t be afraid, there's hope. And answers. And possible solutions. Fear is a normal part of life, especially for parents and disability parents in particular.

I hope by sharing some of MY fears, you’ll feel seen and less alone. Because navigating this disability family life can be scary. Let’s do this together!

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🕶 On the blog... Stair Scare

🕶 Ruth Soukup: The 7 Fear Archetypes And How Figure Out Yours

🎙Huberman Lab: How To Breathe Correctly

📷 Avery's fall... Instagram Post

🕶 When Your Child Chokes

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This podcast was recorded in Garageband and edited by Lisa Thornbury.

Read more and find the transcript for this episode at averybrightlife.com.

And, come chat with us on social! No seriously, c'mon over! It's fun there.

Instagram: @LisaThornbury

Facebook: aVERY Bright life

Twitter: @LisaThornbury

Questions or Partnership Inquiries: averybrightlife@gmail.com

Have a comment, question, episode suggestion or just want to say hello? We’d love to hear from you! Message us on Instagram or send us an email. Or, show off your techie prowess and leave an AUDIO message via the Spotify for Podcasters Message Button. We might even use your voice message in an upcoming episode!

Thanks for listening. 💜

****

Keywords for searchy-ness: mental health, take a break, self care, burned out, disability, disabled kids, developmental disabilities, intellectual disability, parenting, special needs, epilepsy, seizures, hypotonia, chromosome disorder, speech delay, end ableism, disability family, parenting podcast, mother daughter podcast, kid podcaster

73. A 'Sick' Story time and... the emergency skill every kid needs to practise

Covid finally got us, but Avery did great. Phew. Who knew I'd be the one to struggle? Hi. It's me. I'm the problem, it's me. This episode is a story time about our Covid experience with a (gross) peak into where we think it got us. *Trigger warning for those with a strong gag reflex. Avery and I also demonstrate the emergency skill everyone should teach their kids. It's not pleasant to talk about, but it's important to empower all kids, typical and atypical, with the information they need to be able to handle medical emergencies and to get help fast.

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This podcast was recorded in Garageband and edited by Lisa Thornbury.

And, come chat with us on social! No seriously, c'mon over! It's fun there.

Instagram: @LisaThornbury

Facebook: aVERY Bright life

Twitter: @LisaThornbury

Questions or Partnership Inquiries: averybrightlife@gmail.com

Have a comment, question, episode suggestion or just want to say hello? We’d love to hear from you! Message us on Instagram or send us an email. Or, show off your techie prowess and leave an AUDIO message via the Anchor messaging button! We might even use your voice message in an upcoming episode!

Thanks for listening. 💜

****

Keywords for searchy-ness: mental health, take a break, self care, burned out, disability, disabled kids, developmental disabilities, intellectual disability, parenting, special needs, epilepsy, seizures, hypotonia, chromosome disorder, speech delay, end ableism, disability family, parenting podcast, mother daughter podcast, kid podcaster

72. Slap Those Spuds...and other (sometimes embarrassing) parenting stories

Avery joins me for the first eight minutes of this episode. For someone with a profound speech disorder, chatting for eight solid minutes in no small feat. She answers three important questions and then makes an exciting announcement. I'm so proud of this kiddo. Wait, she's no longer a kid. She's a teen heading toward 18 and young adulthood and everything that involves. And it's why we talk about the DSO application in this episode. If your child is 16 and you live in Ontario (I'm assuming other provinces have similar funding and support programs?) it's time to get the ball rolling. It's intimidating and I CAN NOT help you because I'm clueless. However, Avery and I are sussing it out and we'll be back to share some useful step-by-steps.

Slap Those Spuds—Embarrassing Parenting Moments (I feel so bad about that lady's flattened spud mound. May it rest in peas and carrots.)

Carrot Show-TV shows and social media that feeds your brain / Candy Show-media that is just for fun and has no educational value / Cracker Show- somewhere in between.

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This podcast was recorded in Garageband and edited by Lisa Thornbury.

Read more and find the transcript for this episode at averybrightlife.com.

And, come chat with us on social! No seriously, c'mon over! It's fun there.

Instagram: @LisaThornbury

Facebook: aVERY Bright life

Twitter: @LisaThornbury

Questions or Partnership Inquiries: averybrightlife@gmail.com

Have a comment, question, episode suggestion or just want to say hello? We’d love to hear from you! Message us on Instagram or send us an email. Or, show off your techie prowess and leave an AUDIO message via the Anchor messaging button! We might even use your voice message in an upcoming episode!

Thanks for listening. 💜

****

Keywords for searchy-ness: mental health, take a break, self care, burned out, disability, disabled kids, developmental disabilities, intellectual disability, parenting, special needs, epilepsy, seizures, hypotonia, chromosome disorder, speech delay, end ableism, disability family, parenting podcast, mother daughter podcast, kid podcaster

71. My apologies...What I'm sorry for and why

This episode is a little vulnerable so... be gentle with me. It starts with my advice on the two best places for families to find support and community for whatever they're going through. And it ends with an apology—or more accurately, an admission of guilt and an explanation for my behaviour.

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This podcast was recorded in Garageband and edited by Lisa Thornbury.

And, come chat with us on social! No seriously, c'mon over! It's fun there.

Instagram: @LisaThornbury

Facebook: aVERY Bright life

Twitter: @LisaThornbury

Questions or Partnership Inquiries: averybrightlife@gmail.com

Have a comment, question, episode suggestion or just want to say hello? We’d love to hear from you! Message us on Instagram or send us an email. Or, show off your techie prowess and leave an AUDIO message via the Anchor messaging button! We might even use your voice message in an upcoming episode!

Thanks for listening. 💜

****

Keywords for searchy-ness: mental health, take a break, self care, burned out, disability, disabled kids, developmental disabilities, intellectual disability, parenting, special needs, epilepsy, seizures, hypotonia, chromosome disorder, speech delay, end ableism, disability family, parenting podcast, mother daughter podcast, kid podcaster

70. It's My Party And I'll Advocate If I Want To

This episode is a few stories, strung together, from personal experience as a party mama. Some are happy. Some are sad. Some just make me mad. For parents of kids with disabilities, party invitations (or lack of) can be problematic.

I’m sharing because you might relate. Also, hearing about our experiences (though... I didn't handle some of these situations well) might help you better prepare for similar experiences, if and when they come up for you.

So as we said in the 80s…party on dudes!

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Links mentioned in this episode:

🕶 Blog Posts About Parties, Inclusion, Being Invited and Not Being Invited...

🕶 Disability Script

🕶 How To Authentically Introduce Your Atypical Child To Typical Peers

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This podcast was recorded in Garageband and edited by Lisa Thornbury.

Read more and find the transcript for this episode at averybrightlife.com.

And, come chat with us on social! No seriously, c'mon over! It's fun there.

Instagram: @LisaThornbury

Facebook: aVERY Bright life

Twitter: @LisaThornbury

Questions or Partnership Inquiries: averybrightlife@gmail.com

Have a comment, question, episode suggestion or just want to say hello? We’d love to hear from you! Message us on Instagram or send us an email. Or, show off your techie prowess and leave an AUDIO message via the Anchor messaging button! We might even use your voice message in an upcoming episode!

Thanks for listening. 💜

****

Keywords for searchy-ness: mental health, take a break, self care, burned out, disability, disabled kids, developmental disabilities, intellectual disability, parenting, special needs, epilepsy, seizures, hypotonia, chromosome disorder, speech delay, end ableism, disability family, parenting podcast, mother daughter podcast, kid podcaster

69. New (to us) Disability Related Lingo

Here are a few NEW (to us) or updated words related to disability we're trying to use in place of the outdated phrases used in the past. I'm not perfect and I still make mistakes. But, I thought while I'm learning and evolving (language wise anyway) I'd share in case these are new to you too.

Rated Explicit because of a tiny f-bomb near the end... in the outtakes.

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Avery's Joke: "How much does it cost Santa to park his sleigh?" "Nothing, it's on the house."

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Links mentioned in this episode:

🕶 Why Does the term Special Needs Still Exist?

🎙 Ep 2 Not Special

🕶 Neurodiversity: Some Basic Terms & Definitions

🕶Independence VS Interdependence: @open_future_learning

✎ Stop the export of live horses 🇨🇦 😢

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This podcast was recorded in Garageband and edited by Lisa Thornbury.

Read more and find the transcript for this episode at averybrightlife.com.

And, come chat with us on social! No seriously, c'mon over! It's fun there.

Instagram: @LisaThornbury

Facebook: aVERY Bright life

Twitter: @LisaThornbury

Questions or Partnership Inquiries: averybrightlife@gmail.com

Have a comment, question, episode suggestion or just want to say hello? We’d love to hear from you! Message us on Instagram or send us an email. Or, show off your techie prowess and leave an AUDIO message via the Anchor messaging button! We might even use your voice message in an upcoming episode!

Thanks for listening. 💜

****

Keywords for searchy-ness: mental health, take a break, self care, burned out, disability, disabled kids, developmental disabilities, intellectual disability, parenting, special needs, epilepsy, seizures, hypotonia, chromosome disorder, speech delay, end ableism, disability family, parenting podcast, mother daughter podcast, kid podcaster

68. Four Helpful Tools To Develop Independence For ND Kids

Our goal as parents is to give our kids the skills they'll need to live as independently as possible. In this episode we share four fabulous tools that help do just that. We chat about:

Smart Watches and air tags
Disability Introduction Cards
Mydoh (this episode's awesome sponsor!)
PFOs aka "Planted Friendly Observers"

These tools make up part of our ever growing Life Skills Toolkit. We think each of them is a winner winner chicken dinner! Mmmmm chicken... (this random reference will make sense when you listed to the chicken restaurant story. I'm still laughing. And licking my greasy fingers).

Be sure to visit the Mydoh website to learn more and to start a FREE trial. If you end up joining, you can use the code AveryBrightLife10 (code expires Dec. 31, 2022) to get $10 added to your account to get you started.

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This podcast was recorded in Garageband and edited by Lisa Thornbury.

Read more and find the transcript for this episode at averybrightlife.com.

And, come chat with us on social! No seriously, c'mon over! It's fun there.

Instagram: @LisaThornbury

Facebook: aVERY Bright life

Twitter: @LisaThornbury

Questions or Partnership Inquiries: averybrightlife@gmail.com

Have a comment, question, episode suggestion or just want to say hello? We’d love to hear from you! Message us on Instagram or send us an email. Or, show off your techie prowess and leave an AUDIO message via the Anchor messaging button! We might even use your voice message in an upcoming episode!

Thanks for listening. 💜

****

Keywords for searchy-ness: mental health, take a break, self care, burned out, disability, disabled kids, developmental disabilities, intellectual disability, parenting, special needs, epilepsy, seizures, hypotonia, chromosome disorder, speech delay, end ableism, disability family, parenting podcast, mother daughter podcast, kid podcaster

67. Shopping Bags: People Who Make Errands Icky

The title doesn't explain what this episode is about at all. I'm terrible at titles. This episode is about how freaking hard it is to let our disabled teens shop or run errands independently. I give examples of WHY it's problematic (and dangerous at times) and what we're doing to make it work.

Here's the Insta Reel where I follow Avery and her friends to the store so she can shop independently, but safely.

Episode 9: Abuse In The Disability Community

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This podcast was recorded in Garageband and edited by Lisa Thornbury.

Read more and find the transcript for this episode at averybrightlife.com.

And, come chat with us on social! No seriously, c'mon over! It's fun there.

Instagram: @LisaThornbury

Facebook: aVERY Bright life

Twitter: @LisaThornbury

Questions or Partnership Inquiries: averybrightlife@gmail.com

Have a comment, question, episode suggestion or just want to say hello? We’d love to hear from you! Message us on Instagram or send us an email. Or, show off your techie prowess and leave an AUDIO message via the Anchor messaging button! We might even use your voice message in an upcoming episode!

Thanks for listening. 💜

****

Keywords for searchy-ness: mental health, take a break, self care, burned out, disability, disabled kids, developmental disabilities, intellectual disability, parenting, special needs, epilepsy, seizures, hypotonia, chromosome disorder, speech delay, end ableism, disability family, parenting podcast, mother daughter podcast, kid podcaster

66. Mind Your Words: Personal Comments Are Not Welcome

Five friends join in on this episode to share some of the remarks made about them in the past that have been impossible to shake. We should never be commenting on people's bodies, appearances, mannerisms, differences or anything really.

This is also the episode where I talk about how to effectively and respectfully address our kids' questions about differences when we're out in public. And I also may burst into some Quiet Riot.

As mentioned in this episode: @ableismistrash

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This podcast was recorded in Garageband and edited by Lisa Thornbury.

Read more and find the transcript for this episode at averybrightlife.com.

And, come chat with us on social! No seriously, c'mon over! It's fun there.

Instagram: @LisaThornbury

Facebook: aVERY Bright life

Twitter: @LisaThornbury

Questions or Partnership Inquiries: averybrightlife@gmail.com

Have a comment, question, episode suggestion or just want to say hello? We’d love to hear from you! Message us old-timey style by commenting on our podcast page. Or show us your techie and leave an AUDIO message via the Anchor messaging button! We might even use your voice message in an upcoming episode!

Thanks for listening. 💜

****

Keywords for searchy-ness: mental health, take a break, self care, burned out, disability, disabled kids, developmental disabilities, intellectual disability, parenting, special needs, epilepsy, seizures, hypotonia, chromosome disorder, speech delay, end ableism, disability family, parenting podcast, mother daughter podcast, kid podcaster

65. Ten (Doable!) Ways To Clear Your Cluttered Mom Mind

Disability mamas and parents in general have a lot going on and we don't have a lot of extra mental space to work with. This episode is about the 10 ways I've found to help clear out some of the clutter and free up some much needed head space.

* Adult Language

Gift Hiding Hack

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This podcast was recorded in Garageband and edited by Lisa Thornbury.

Read more and find the transcript for this episode at averybrightlife.com.

And, come chat with us on social! No seriously, c'mon over! It's fun there.

Instagram: @LisaThornbury

Facebook: aVERY Bright life

Twitter: @LisaThornbury

Questions or Partnership Inquiries: averybrightlife@gmail.com

Have a comment, question, episode suggestion or just want to say hello? We’d love to hear from you! Message us old-timey style by commenting on our podcast page. Or show us your techie and leave an AUDIO message via the Anchor messaging button! We might even use your voice message in an upcoming episode!

Thanks for listening. 💜

****

Keywords for searchy-ness: mental health, take a break, self care, burned out, disability, disabled kids, developmental disabilities, intellectual disability, parenting, special needs, epilepsy, seizures, hypotonia, chromosome disorder, speech delay, end ableism, disability family, parenting podcast, mother daughter podcast, kid podcaster

64. When To Step In And When To Step Back

Sometimes parents of kids with disabilities, or all parents I'm assuming, struggle with when it's appropriate to step in and went to step back. I personally really struggle with this. These are my thoughts about when stepping in is helpful for our kids and peers who might need some insight into how to interact positively with people with disabilities. And when we should step back and let our kids figure it out.

Links Mentioned In This Episode:

Sometimes I Speak For My Disabled Child And Here's Why

How To Authentically Introduce Your Atypical Child To Typical Peers

Put A Disabilities Script In Your Parenting Toolbox

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This podcast was recorded in Garageband and edited by Lisa Thornbury.

Read more and find the transcript for this episode at averybrightlife.com.

And, come chat with us on social! No seriously, c'mon over! It's fun there.

Instagram: @LisaThornbury

Facebook: aVERY Bright life

Twitter: @LisaThornbury

Questions or Partnership Inquiries: averybrightlife@gmail.com

Have a comment, question, episode suggestion or just want to say hello? We’d love to hear from you! Message us old-timey style by commenting on our podcast page. Or show us your techie and leave an AUDIO message via the Anchor messaging button! We might even use your voice message in an upcoming episode!

Thanks for listening. 💜

****

Keywords for searchy-ness: mental health, take a break, self care, burned out, disability, disabled kids, developmental disabilities, intellectual disability, parenting, special needs, epilepsy, seizures, hypotonia, chromosome disorder, speech delay, end ableism, disability family, parenting podcast, mother daughter podcast, kid podcaster

63. Small Wins, Big Fails and Little Life Lessons Learned

Reflections on some self-care attempts—exposing which went well and which crashed and burned. This episode is longer than most, but I had a lot to talk about. Not all of it is flattering, but nobody wants sunshine all the time. Some days it rains. Which helps the flowers grow, er, whatever. You know what I mean. LOL!

Links mentioned in this episode:

Self-Care for Caregivers How-To

The Insomnia Project Podcast

How to send all unwanted cell calls straight to voicemail

The End Of My Booze Cruise

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This podcast was recorded in Garageband and edited by Lisa Thornbury.

Read more and find the transcript for this episode at averybrightlife.com.

And, come chat with us on social! No seriously, c'mon over! It's fun there.

Instagram: @LisaThornbury

Facebook: aVERY Bright life

Twitter: @LisaThornbury

Questions or Partnership Inquiries: averybrightlife@gmail.com

Have a comment, question, episode suggestion or just want to say hello? We’d love to hear from you! Message us old-timey style by commenting on our podcast page. Or show us your techie and leave an AUDIO message via the Anchor messaging button! We might even use your voice message in an upcoming episode!

Thanks for listening. 💜

****

Keywords for searchy-ness: mental health, take a break, self care, burned out, disability, disabled kids, developmental disabilities, intellectual disability, parenting, special needs, epilepsy, seizures, hypotonia, chromosome disorder, speech delay, end ableism, disability family, parenting podcast, mother daughter podcast, kid podcaster

62. Summer Summary And... An Announcement

We're back from summer hiatus and we have loads to tell you! This episode begins with updates... what happened this summer (and there was a lot) and ends with our FIVE whys. WHY do we do this podcast. Like for real, what's the point? Plus, that biiiiiiiiiig announcement. The suspense, right? :)

As mentioned in this episode, here are the creators to check out:

Kathy Buckworth - Instagram / Go To Grandma Podcast
Tory Halpin - Research Based Parenting: Raising Kids With Intention and Respect - Instagram
MamaBear For Rare - Jordan’s Syndrome advocate Spreading awareness to help the world better understand - Instagram
Madeline Cheney/The Rare Life - the ultimate solidarity for parents of children with rare conditions - Instagram / Podcast
Melissa/Our Real Rare Life - Medical mom • Advocate • Grateful Perspective is everything- Instagram

Episode 97 of The Rare Life Podcast (the one where Madeline chats with Melissa)

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This podcast was recorded in Garageband and edited by Lisa Thornbury.

Read more and find the transcript for this episode at averybrightlife.com.

And, come chat with us on social! No seriously, c'mon over! It's fun there.

Instagram: @LisaThornbury

Facebook: aVERY Bright life

Twitter: @LisaThornbury

Questions or Partnership Inquiries: averybrightlife@gmail.com

Have a comment, question, episode suggestion or just want to say hello? We’d love to hear from you! Message us old-timey style by commenting on our podcast page. Or show us your techie and leave an AUDIO message via the Anchor messaging button! We might even use your voice message in an upcoming episode!

Thanks for listening. 💜

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Keywords for searchy-ness: mental health, take a break, self care, burned out, disability, disabled kids, developmental disabilities, intellectual disability, parenting, special needs, epilepsy, seizures, hypotonia, chromosome disorder, speech delay, end ableism, disability family, parenting podcast, mother daughter podcast, kid podcaster

61. Summer Hiatus Alert - Burned Out and Bitey

We're taking a SUMMER BREAK! We'll be back with brand new episodes in the fall. This final episode before taking a much needed pool side popsicle break is about why we ALL need a break and how feeling burned out and bitey is something so many of us are feeling right about now.

See you back here September 1st!

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This podcast was recorded in Garageband and edited by Lisa Thornbury.

And, come chat with us on social! No seriously, c'mon over! It's fun there.

Instagram: @LisaThornbury

Facebook: aVERY Bright life

Twitter: @LisaThornbury

Questions or Partnership Inquiries: averybrightlife@gmail.com

Have a comment, question, episode suggestion or just want to say hello? We’d love to hear from you! Message us old-timey style by commenting on our podcast page. Or show us your techie and leave an AUDIO message via the Anchor messaging button! We might even use your voice message in an upcoming episode!

Thanks for listening. 💜

****

Keywords for searchy-ness: mental health, take a break, self care, burned out, disability, disabled kids, developmental disabilities, intellectual disability, parenting, special needs, epilepsy, seizures, hypotonia, chromosome disorder, speech delay, end ableism, disability family, parenting podcast, mother daughter podcast, kid podcaster

60. Talking About Disabilities With Neurotypical Kids

Is it rude to discuss somebody's disability? Maybe in some cases. But not when the discussion is intended to educate your kids about what a particular disability might involve. When people, kids especially, are rude or judgmental, it’s usually coming from a place of fear. I’ve found a great remedy for fear is to simply provide a little understanding and context. By knowing what’s up, the fear disappears and connections are more easy to make.

This episode is about how and why you might want to prep your kids before hanging out with a person with a disability.

Bonus: Avery's cousins and aunt join us for this episode!

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This podcast was recorded in Garageband and edited by Lisa Thornbury.

And, come chat with us on social! No seriously, c'mon over! It's fun there.

Instagram: @LisaThornbury

Facebook: aVERY Bright life

Twitter: @LisaThornbury

Questions or Partnership Inquiries: averybrightlife@gmail.com

Have a comment, question, episode suggestion or just want to say hello? We’d love to hear from you! Message us old-timey style by commenting on our podcast page. Or show us your techie and leave an AUDIO message via the Anchor messaging button! We might even use your voice message in an upcoming episode!

Thanks for listening. 💜

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Keywords for searchy-ness: disability, disabled kids, developmental disabilities, intellectual disability, parenting, special needs, epilepsy, seizures, hypotonia, chromosome disorder, speech delay, end ableism, disability family, parenting podcast, mother daughter podcast, kid podcaster

59. DNA, Genes and Rare Chromosomes Disorders: What Does It All Mean?

I wanted to call this episode "Genes, Genes, What Do They Means?" But I'm keeping it serious. Well, serious-ish. This is a quick and dirty explanation of what DNA is, what genes do, and how chromosomes work—with a bit about how rare chromosome disorders can occur and specifically, what Avery's rare chromosome deletion and duplication syndrome looks like.

Full Disclosure. I am not a scientist. Or as I said in the episode... "science tits." LOL!

All about Genetic Testing

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This podcast was recorded in Garageband and edited by Lisa Thornbury.

Read more and find the transcript for this episode at averybrightlife.com.

And, come chat with us on social! No seriously, c'mon over! It's fun there.

Instagram: @LisaThornbury

Facebook: aVERY Bright life

Twitter: @LisaThornbury

Questions or Partnership Inquiries: averybrightlife@gmail.com

Have a comment, question, episode suggestion or just want to say hello? We’d love to hear from you! Message us old-timey style by commenting on our podcast page. Or show us your techie and leave an AUDIO message via the Anchor messaging button! We might even use your voice message in an upcoming episode!

Thanks for listening. 💜

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Keywords for searchy-ness: genetic testing, genetics, rare chromosome disorder day, disability, disabled kids, developmental disabilities, intellectual disability, parenting, special needs, epilepsy, seizures, hypotonia, chromosome disorder, speech delay, end ableism, disability family, parenting podcast, mother daughter podcast, kid podcaster,

58. May-rry Christmas...

.... and, should we tell our older kids with intellectual disabilities the truth about S. Claus, the E. Bunny and the gang?? And if so, how?

This episode is about that AND how we celebrated Christmas in May 2019 when I nearly ruined future holiday magic forever.

*Content Warning: Not for kids... sensitive info.

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This podcast was recorded in Garageband and edited by Lisa Thornbury.

And, come chat with us on social! No seriously, c'mon over! It's fun there.

Instagram: @LisaThornbury

Facebook: aVERY Bright life

Twitter: @LisaThornbury

Questions or Partnership Inquiries: averybrightlife@gmail.com

Have a comment, question, episode suggestion or just want to say hello? We’d love to hear from you! Message us old-timey style by commenting on our podcast page. Or show us your techie and leave an AUDIO message via the Anchor messaging button! We might even use your voice message in an upcoming episode!

Thanks for listening. 💜

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Keywords for searchy-ness: disability, disabled kids, developmental disabilities, intellectual disability, parenting, special needs, epilepsy, seizures, hypotonia, chromosome disorder, speech delay, end ableism, disability family, parenting podcast, mother daughter podcast, kid podcaster

57. Avery's Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day

School is Avery's happy safe place. So for her to come home the other day, distraught and scared and worried about going back, it was upsetting. This is the story of her terrible, horrible, no good, very bad day.

*Content Warning: Not for kids. Violence.

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This podcast was recorded in Garageband and edited by Lisa Thornbury.

And, come chat with us on social! No seriously, c'mon over! It's fun there.

Instagram: @LisaThornbury

Facebook: aVERY Bright life

Twitter: @LisaThornbury

Questions or Partnership Inquiries: averybrightlife@gmail.com

Have a comment, question, episode suggestion or just want to say hello? We’d love to hear from you! Message us old-timey style by commenting on our podcast page. Or show us your techie and leave an AUDIO message via the Anchor messaging button! We might even use your voice message in an upcoming episode!

Thanks for listening. 💜

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Keywords for searchy-ness: disability, disabled kids, developmental disabilities, intellectual disability, parenting, special needs, epilepsy, seizures, hypotonia, chromosome disorder, speech delay, end ableism, disability family, parenting podcast, mother daughter podcast, kid podcaster

56. A Matter Of Perspective

It isn’t easy to change our perspective and stay positive. It’s way easier to focus on all negative stuff. And man, there's a lot. Especially right now. This episode is about how we can actively change our perspective and reshape our reality, including the challenges we face as disability families.

Here is the link to the EXCELLENT study I talked about in this episode: Strength in Diversity: Positive Impacts of Children with Disabilities

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This podcast was recorded in Garageband and edited by Lisa Thornbury.

Read more and find the transcript for this episode at averybrightlife.com.

And, come chat with us on social! No seriously, c'mon over! It's fun there.

Instagram: @LisaThornbury

Facebook: aVERY Bright life

Twitter: @LisaThornbury

Questions or Partnership Inquiries: averybrightlife@gmail.com

Have a comment, question, episode suggestion or just want to say hello? We’d love to hear from you! Message us old-timey style by commenting on our podcast page. Or show us your techie and leave an AUDIO message via the Anchor messaging button! We might even use your voice message in an upcoming episode!

Thanks for listening. 💜

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Keywords for searchy-ness: disability, disabled kids, developmental disabilities, intellectual disability, parenting, special needs, epilepsy, seizures, hypotonia, chromosome disorder, speech delay, end ableism, disability family, parenting podcast, mother daughter podcast, kid podcaster

55. Negative Nelly

Sometimes we're all a little (or a lot) negative. Of course we are. I mean, have you looked around lately? There is some STUFF happening. There's also some stuff happening in our house right now too. Nothing we can't manage but holy man, it takes a toll. So, in this "keepin' it real" episode, I share a bit about what's going on over here in the format of a game we used to play with the kids. The game is called, "Fortunately Unfortunately." Ever played it? No? Then this is the perfect episode for you to learn how to play AND to enjoy an obscure Nelly Olsen reference.

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This podcast was recorded in Garageband and edited by Lisa Thornbury.

And, come chat with us on social! No seriously, c'mon over! It's fun there.

Instagram: @LisaThornbury

Facebook: aVERY Bright life

Twitter: @LisaThornbury

Questions or Partnership Inquiries: averybrightlife@gmail.com

Have a comment, question, episode suggestion or just want to say hello? We’d love to hear from you! Message us old-timey style by commenting on our podcast page. Or show us your techie and leave an AUDIO message via the Anchor messaging button! We might even use your voice message in an upcoming episode!

Thanks for listening. 💜

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Keywords for searchy-ness: disability, disabled kids, developmental disabilities, intellectual disability, parenting, special needs, epilepsy, seizures, hypotonia, chromosome disorder, speech delay, end ableism, disability family, parenting podcast, mother daughter podcast, kid podcaster

54. When Your Child With Disabilities Chokes

*Content Warning: some rather traumatic content about a child (my child) choking.

This episode is about why children, kids with disabilities in particular, choke. And also, what we as caregivers can do to keep our kids as safe as possible.

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This podcast was recorded in Garageband and edited by Lisa Thornbury.

And, come chat with us on social! No seriously, c'mon over! It's fun there.

Instagram: @LisaThornbury

Facebook: aVERY Bright life

Twitter: @LisaThornbury

Questions or Partnership Inquiries: averybrightlife@gmail.com

Have a comment, question, episode suggestion or just want to say hello? We’d love to hear from you! Message us old-timey style by commenting on our podcast page. Or show us your techie and leave an AUDIO message via the Anchor messaging button! We might even use your voice message in an upcoming episode!

Thanks for listening. 💜

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Keywords for searchy-ness: disability, disabled kids, developmental disabilities, intellectual disability, parenting, special needs, epilepsy, seizures, hypotonia, chromosome disorder, speech delay, end ableism, disability family, parenting podcast, mother daughter podcast, kid podcaster

53. Who Are The Glass Children?

As soon as I feel like I have a handle on the terminology in the disability community, I come across something new. Like "Glass Children." I'd never heard of this until a few months ago. In this episode I share a bit about who Glass Children are and what parents and the community at large can do to help make sure that kids with disabled siblings feel SEEN and heard.

Jamie Guterman's TED Talk about growing up as a Glass Child

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This podcast was recorded in Garageband and edited by Lisa Thornbury.

Read more and find the transcript for this episode at averybrightlife.com.

And, come chat with us on social! No seriously, c'mon over! It's fun there.

Instagram: @LisaThornbury

Facebook: aVERY Bright life

Twitter: @LisaThornbury

Questions or Partnership Inquiries: averybrightlife@gmail.com

Have a comment, question, episode suggestion or just want to say hello? We’d love to hear from you! Message us old-timey style by commenting on our podcast page. Or show us your techie and leave an AUDIO message via the Anchor messaging button! We might even use your voice message in an upcoming episode!

Thanks for listening. 💜

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Keywords for searchy-ness: disability, disabled kids, developmental disabilities, intellectual disability, parenting, special needs, epilepsy, seizures, hypotonia, chromosome disorder, speech delay, end ableism, disability family, parenting podcast, mother daughter podcast, kid podcaster

52. Pet Parties... just because

Ever hosted a puppy party? How about a dog wedding? Just me? I know, it's a bit out there. But isn't that what we do as parents? I feel like I've lost that creative, silly side this past few years. A pandemic will do that. So I thought I'd share the old "fun" dog wedding planner, puppy party host Lisa. Just FUR fun. Oh and in case you were wondering who let the dogs out? I did.

This episode is rated Clean for all audiences.. clean, if you don't count the dog hair on my pants.

How to host a dog party

Dog Wedding

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This podcast was recorded in Garageband and edited by Lisa Thornbury.

Read more and find the transcript for this episode at averybrightlife.com.

And, come chat with us on social! No seriously, c'mon over! It's fun there.

Instagram: @LisaThornbury

Facebook: aVERY Bright life

Twitter: @LisaThornbury

Questions or Partnership Inquiries: averybrightlife@gmail.com

Have a comment, question, episode suggestion or just want to say hello? We’d love to hear from you! Message us old-timey style by commenting on our podcast page. Or show us your techie and leave an AUDIO message via the Anchor messaging button! We might even use your voice message in an upcoming episode!

Thanks for listening. 💜

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Keywords for searchy-ness: disability, disabled kids, developmental disabilities, intellectual disability, parenting, special needs, epilepsy, seizures, hypotonia, chromosome disorder, speech delay, end ableism, disability family, parenting podcast, mother daughter podcast, kid podcaster

51. Exposing Exclusion

Part of working toward inclusion, includes talking about exclusion—where it comes from and how it feels. Disability advocates like me talk a big talk. But, I haven't always been a shining example of inclusion. My history includes plenty of ableism.

Sharing my missteps doesn’t paint me in the most flattering light, but exposing our flaws and our subsequent growth can be one way to uncover hidden but common ableist ideas and help clear a path ahead. So buckle up, I’m going to expose myself.

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The "Bad Bubble" episode I mentioned: Ep. 15 Friends

The photo of me and my date before a high school dance is HERE on Instagram. Um, the hair, the dress, the white pumps. There's a lot to unpack there. But most important is the boy in the window behind us.

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This podcast was recorded in Garageband and edited by Lisa Thornbury.

Read more and find the transcript for this episode at averybrightlife.com.

And, come chat with us on social! No seriously, c'mon over! It's fun there.

Instagram: @LisaThornbury

Facebook: aVERY Bright life

Twitter: @LisaThornbury

Questions or Partnership Inquiries: averybrightlife@gmail.com

Have a comment, question, episode suggestion or just want to say hello? We’d love to hear from you! Message us old-timey style by commenting on our podcast page. Or show us your techie and leave an AUDIO message via the Anchor messaging button! We might even use your voice message in an upcoming episode!

Thanks for listening. 💜

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Keywords for searchy-ness: disability, disabled kids, developmental disabilities, intellectual disability, parenting, special needs, epilepsy, seizures, hypotonia, chromosome disorder, speech delay, end ableism, disability family, parenting podcast, mother daughter podcast, kid podcaster

50. Mishmash And A Medical Update

A resounding welcome and happy hello to our new listeners! This episode begins with a brief intro about who we are and what this podcast is about. We then move into a medical update and some thoughts about how as parents, our identities are so tightly connected to our kid's diagnoses—whether we mean it to be or not.

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Living With The Fear of SUDEP: https://averybrightlife.com/living-with-the-fear-of-sudep

Fridge Make-Over How To Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yqN50FG0cZE

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This podcast was recorded in Garageband and edited by Lisa Thornbury.

And, come chat with us on social! No seriously, c'mon over! It's fun there.

Instagram: @LisaThornbury

Facebook: aVERY Bright life

Twitter: @LisaThornbury

Questions or Partnership Inquiries: averybrightlife@gmail.com

Have a comment, question, episode suggestion or just want to say hello? We’d love to hear from you! Message us old-timey style by commenting on our podcast page. Or show us your techie and leave an AUDIO message via the Anchor messaging button! We might even use your voice message in an upcoming episode!

Thanks for listening. 💜

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Keywords for searchy-ness: disability, disabled kids, developmental disabilities, intellectual disability, parenting, special needs, epilepsy, seizures, hypotonia, chromosome disorder, speech delay, end ableism, disability family, parenting podcast, mother daughter podcast, kid podcaster

49. Viral In A Good-ish Way

I thought it might be cool to go 'viral' on social media. And then we did. And now I'm not so sure it's all that it's cracked up to be. Though there's no adult language in this episode, it still has an Explicit rating because there are topics around online bullying and derogatory comments that are not meant for little ears.

In this episode mom Lisa explains how an Instagram reel that went viral elicited a broad range of comments—some thoughtful, some ignorant and some downright awful.

Avery is absent in this episode (she is fine, just taking the week off). She'll be back next week!

Here's the reel discussed in this episode: https://www.instagram.com/reel/CbGrzrTAeqS/

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This podcast was recorded in Garageband and edited by Lisa Thornbury.

And, come chat with us on social! No seriously, c'mon over! It's fun there.

Instagram: @LisaThornbury

Facebook: aVERY Bright life

Twitter: @LisaThornbury

Questions or Partnership Inquiries: averybrightlife@gmail.com

Have a comment, question, episode suggestion or just want to say hello? We’d love to hear from you! Message us old-timey style by commenting on our podcast page. Or show us your techie and leave an AUDIO message via the Anchor messaging button! We might even use your voice message in an upcoming episode!

Thanks for listening. 💜

****

Keywords for searchy-ness: disability, disabled kids, developmental disabilities, intellectual disability, parenting, special needs, epilepsy, seizures, hypotonia, chromosome disorder, speech delay, end ableism, disability family, parenting podcast, mother daughter podcast, kid podcaster

48. It's Our 1 Year Podiversary!!

What?! How has it been a year already? In this retrospective anniversary episode we look back over our first year of mama/daughter podcasting—highlighting some of our favourite episodes and we sharing why we started this "journey" in the first place.

Thank you SO MUCH for sticking with us this year; for commenting, sharing and for just making us feel so dang good.

Here's to another year of tech glitches, insights and eff bombs, and of course, the occasional bursting into song for no real reason.

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This podcast was recorded in Garageband and edited by Lisa Thornbury.

And, come chat with us on social! No seriously, c'mon over! It's fun there.

Instagram: @LisaThornbury

Facebook: aVERY Bright life

Twitter: @LisaThornbury

Questions or Partnership Inquiries: averybrightlife@gmail.com

Have a comment, question, episode suggestion or just want to say hello? We’d love to hear from you! Message us old-timey style by commenting on our podcast page. Or show us your techie and leave an AUDIO message via the Anchor messaging button! We might even use your voice message in an upcoming episode!

Thanks for listening. 💜

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Keywords for searchy-ness: disability, disabled kids, developmental disabilities, intellectual disability, parenting, special needs, epilepsy, seizures, hypotonia, chromosome disorder, speech delay, end ableism, disability family, parenting podcast, mother daughter podcast, kid podcaster

47. Sharing Our Script: How To Respond To Unsolicited Comments and Questions

I'm an inquisitive person. I'm also nosy. I like to know things about people. But, I'm not a jerk about it. I don't make unwelcome comments about people I don't know or ask them personal questions. So why do some people feel it's okay to cross that line when it comes to disabled children? I've been asked, "What's wrong with her?" and "Why does she talk like that?" and other equally rude questions about Avery's disabilities many times. I don't anticipate that will stop any time soon, so we've come up with a "script"—a set of rehearsed comebacks for occasions when we feel like responding. We don't always. But when a question comes out of a place of curiosity, not cruelty, sometimes we decide to respond to possibly move the conversation forward in a positive way. Other times we decide it's none of their damn business and walk away. Depends on the day.

In this episode we share some of the rude, ignorant and insensitive comments we've heard over the years and then explain how we decide whether or not to respond and what our script might say.

* Content Warning: Sensitive Topics and some adult language

Links mentioned in this episode:

Lucy on Instagram is @_peas.in.a.pod

Lauren Lowery on Instagram is @lauren_nia_lowery and her podcast is called, Overcome the Overwhelm

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This podcast was recorded in Garageband and edited by Lisa Thornbury.

Read more and find the transcript for this episode at averybrightlife.com.

And, come chat with us on social! No seriously, c'mon over! It's fun there.

Instagram: @LisaThornbury

Facebook: aVERY Bright life

Twitter: @LisaThornbury

Questions or Partnership Inquiries: averybrightlife@gmail.com

Have a comment, question, episode suggestion or just want to say hello? We’d love to hear from you! Message us old-timey style by commenting on our podcast page. Or show us your techie and leave an AUDIO message via the Anchor messaging button! We might even use your voice message in an upcoming episode!

Thanks for listening. 💜

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Keywords for searchy-ness: disability, disabled kids, developmental disabilities, intellectual disability, parenting, special needs, epilepsy, seizures, hypotonia, chromosome disorder, speech delay, end ableism, disability family, parenting podcast, mother daughter podcast, kid podcaster

aVERY BRIGHT LIFE

By Lisa Thornbury

Available on