It’s getting merry in the kitchen! 🎄This week on Coffee & Conversations, Rachel and her son Kason team up to make the world’s easiest Christmas cookie recipe—sprinkles, giggles, and plenty of sugar included. 🍪😂☕Watch, bake along, and enjoy the holiday vibes!

In this week’s episode, Rachel talks with Cecily Breeding about becoming the person God designed us to be—in mind, body, and spirit. Together, they explore how to live with wholeness and grace, let go of pressure and perfection, and embrace a life rooted in purpose and peace. They also share practical ways to encourage our kids to enjoy movement and remove the barriers that keep us from thriving in our own health and wellness journeys.

🎙️ Coffee & Conversations with Rachel — Episode Intro

Today on Coffee & Conversations with Rachel, we’re welcoming Sara Allegri, owner and instructor at Pilates Island Studio. Sara has a gift for helping people reconnect with their bodies—especially after a long break, an injury, or a season of feeling unsure about where to start again.

In this conversation, Sara and Rachel talk honestly about what it means to step back into movement with grace instead of guilt, to release the pressure of perfection, and to let healing begin—not from shame, but from love. It’s a beautiful reminder that grace is stronger than shame, and that it’s never too late to begin again.

In the final part of this 3-part series, Rachel and Lace dive into one of the biggest challenges many families face—school. From sensory overload to social struggles and misunderstanding, the classroom can be a tough place for autistic kids. Lace shares what helped her most as a student and offers insight from her lived experience. Together, she and Rachel talk through ways parents, teachers, and caregivers can create safe, supportive environments where neurodivergent kids can truly thrive. ☕ Join us for this thoughtful conversation about empathy, advocacy, and empowering children to be seen, heard, and celebrated—just as they are.

In Part 2 of our series, Rachel and Lace talk about a struggle many parents face—shame. Parents of neurodivergent kids often feel the weight of judgment, guilt, or uncertainty, but this conversation is all about releasing that burden.

Lace shares her perspective as an autistic adult, helping parents understand that love, acceptance, and support make all the difference. Together, we explore practical ways to shift from shame to strength—so families can build a home filled with encouragement and belonging.

☕ Tune in, be encouraged, and remember: you and your child are not alone.

Join Rachel as she sits down with Lace, a remarkable woman who opens up about her journey of discovering she is autistic—diagnosed not as a child, but later in adulthood. Lace courageously shares what it was like to finally have a name for the experiences she had carried for years, and how that diagnosis reshaped the way she understands herself and the world around her. In Part 1 of this 3-part series, you’ll hear her story, her challenges, and her victories as she paints a picture of life through her unique lens. This conversation is full of honesty, hope, and wisdom. Whether you’re autistic yourself, love someone who is, or simply want to better understand, Lace’s journey will inspire you and expand your perspective. 👉 Don’t forget to subscribe and hit the notification bell so you don’t miss Part 2 & 3! #CoffeeAndConversations #AutismAwareness #Neurodivergence

In part 2 of Rachel’s conversation with Kay Lynn Leake, the discussion goes deeper into what everyday life looks like for families raising a neurodivergent child. Kay Lynn shares practical strategies that have helped her family thrive—building routines, navigating school and church settings, and finding moments of joy in the journey.

Rachel and Kay Lynn also reflect on the importance of community—how friends, relatives, teachers, and ministry leaders can create environments where every child belongs and feels valued. With honesty and encouragement, Kay Lynn reminds us that while the road isn’t always easy, it is filled with opportunities to celebrate growth, resilience, and the unique gifts of each child.

Pour another cup of coffee and join us for the second half of this inspiring conversation!

Rachel welcomes Kay Lynn Leake to the table for a heartfelt and insightful conversation. Kay Lynn joins to share her journey as a mother raising a child who is neurodivergent. With honesty and warmth, she opens up about the challenges, the joys, and the unique perspective that comes from walking alongside her child. Together, we’ll explore what it means to embrace differences, advocate with love, and build understanding in our families and communities. Whether you’re a parent, a friend, or simply someone wanting to learn how to better support those around you, Kay Lynn’s story will leave you encouraged and inspired. Grab your coffee, settle in, and join us for part 1 of this meaningful conversation!

Rachel and Jeanette continue their conversation on Neurodivergent and tools to help parents and those wanting to support, advocate and love these families.

Join Rachel and her guest Jeanette Black as they kick off her new series on Neurodivergent. Jeanette share her expertise about Neurodiversity, what it means, what falls underneath it and how it affects families. She shares ways we can be a support to those families. This part one of the interview with Jeanette, so be sure and watch or listen to the second part as well.