Conquering Your Clownfish

In this episode of Conquering Your Clownfish, Brady interviews Andrew Lund, a disability advocate, and father to a daughter born with a rare craniofacial condition called Pfeiffer Syndrome. Andrew shares the emotional journey of his daughter Hadley's early medical issues, his hope that she lives comfortably, and his bittersweet realization that he will likely outlive his beloved child. This amazing conversation will open your eyes to viewing disability through a lens of empowerment over limitation as you learn that a human being’s worth is independent of their productivity.

In this empowering episode, Brady Murray welcomes Rebekah Lyons, mom, author, and disability advocate. Rebekah shares her family's story of raising a son with Down syndrome and later adopting her daughter Joy, who also has Down syndrome, detailing the challenges and joys. She offers inspiration for embracing life's difficulties, emphasizing that we're all wired to overcome. Rebekah discusses creating family resilience through teamwork, grace, and connection. Listen in as she gives parents hope and reminds us that none of us are perfect, so let’s stop pretending like we are.

In this episode of Conquering Your Clownfish, Brady interviews Kaley Stymeist, a registered behavior technician and passionate autism advocate. As a mother to three boys, including her youngest son, Hudson, who has non-speaking autism, Kaley shares her family's incredible journey of challenges, triumphs, and personal growth. She opens up about Hudson's miraculous birth story, his regression at age three, and how their family has rallied together to support and empower him. Kaley offers valuable advice for parents embarking on the autism journey, emphasizing the importance of finding community, allowing yourself to feel all the emotions, and embracing the different but still wonderful life path. This powerful conversation will inspire you to conquer your own clownfish and create a more accepting world where every child is empowered to sing the song they were meant to sing.

Find Kaley on Social Media: @kaley_and_3

Sometimes, when life knocks you off your feet, and you're left overwhelmed, all you need is the power of a supportive community. With their help, you can get back on your feet and move forward with conviction. In this week’s episode of Conquering Your Clownfish, content creator, author, and Down syndrome advocate Misty Coy Snyder opens up with raw honesty about receiving her son Jed’s Down syndrome diagnosis amidst the uncertainty of the COVID-19 pandemic. She discusses coming out of the isolation of grief to find community among other mothers facing similar journeys and shares how the joy of meeting her son was the “game changer” that inspired her advocacy. Join us as Misty helps bridge divides with her bold vision for understanding, community, and shared humanity across all abilities and journeys.

Brady felt blessed when his son Ridge was born healthy. However, concerning symptoms eventually emerged, leading to a diagnosis of 22q Deletion Syndrome. Desperate for normalcy, Brady took their doctor’s advice and raised Ridge no differently than any other kid. Outwardly Ridge seemed fine, but inwardly he struggled greatly in many aspects. In this episode, Brady regrets missed early intervention opportunities that could have changed Ridge’s trajectory. Ridge’s path ultimately forced Brady to face reality. Now equipped with proper resources and support, the Murrays have embraced unexpected life detours, leaning on hope, faith, and each other. Ridge’s experiences have given Brady the perspective that some special abilities, while being largely unseen by society, aren’t any less important. We all have something to contribute, we just need to be given the chance.

We all face challenges in life, some more profound than others. However, one's physical abilities do not determine their capacity to uplift and inspire others. This week on Conquering Your Clownfish, host Brady Murray interviews his childhood friend Tate Castleton. Growing up with paralysis on his left side, however, with the unwavering support of family and friends, Tate went on to achieve great success in academics, career, and family. From missionary service across the world to meeting his loving wife Emily, join us as Tate reflects on how his special ability opened unexpected doors and brought blessings into his life and the lives of others.

There are many misunderstandings about those with disabilities. Because they often rely on support for many basic needs, it can be easy to overlook their profound gifts. This week on Conquering Your Clownfish, host Brady Murray shares inspiring stories about key figures from his life who, despite facing challenges, profoundly impacted him for the better. Join Brady as he shares his realization that while those with disabilities may require assistance with daily living, the hope, kindness, and acceptance they inspire has a tremendous positive impact on society. It is only when we fully include those with disabilities in our communities and lives that we allow ourselves to truly benefit from their unique perspectives that bring out the best in all of us.

We often assume a disability diagnosis leads to only limitations for our child. The news leaves us fearing the worst about their future prospects and abilities. But what if their condition actually hides remarkable gifts within? This week on Conquering Your Clownfish, host Brady Murray explains how his perception shifted from grieving his son Nash’s diagnosis of Down syndrome to unveiling his hidden talents and potential. Join Brady as he shares the profound adventures that helped his family learn to embrace Nash’s differences as superpowers instead of something to fix. #DownSyndrome #SingYourSong