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Especially Organized: Sensible Solutions for Special Needs Moms
Especially Organized: Sensible Solutions for Special Needs Moms episodes
- 84 | Inclusion vs Belonging for the Disability Community: What's The Difference? My Conversation with Heather Avis of The Lucky Few
84 | Inclusion vs. Belonging for the Disabled: What's The Difference? My Conversation with Heather Avis of The Lucky Few
Join me for a heartfelt conversation with Heather Avis, a New York Times bestselling author and advocate, where we discuss the essence of creating spaces where children with disabilities are cherished for their individuality rather than forced to conform.
Heather and I share candid reflections on the pressures and decisions involved in choosing the right educational paths for our children with intellectual disabilities. We explore the dynamic and deeply personal choices we as parents must make and acknowledge the essential role of community support in enhancing the journey of inclusion.
We highlight the importance of fostering environments where everyone is valued, echoing our belief in the power of advocacy and the pursuit of belonging for future generations. By sharing these stories and insights, we hope to inspire parents to trust their instincts and contribute to a more compassionate and inclusive world for their children.
Heather Avis is a New York Times bestselling author, an award-winning podcaster, a public speaker, and an advocate for Down syndrome. She is the founder and Chief Visionary Officer of The Lucky Few, an advocacy organization dedicated to shouting worth, shifting narratives, and creating inclusive spaces where everyone belongs. For over a decade, Heather has led this effort, reimagining what it looks like when we embrace our differences.
Heather’s advocacy journey began in 2008 when she and her husband, Josh, adopted their daughter Macyn, who has Down syndrome. Overcoming initial fears, Heather discovered the profound gift of life with Macyn. She started sharing their story on a blog, which grew into the popular Instagram account @theluckyfewofficial.
Heather lives in Southern California with her husband, their three children, Macyn, Truly, and August, and their two Goldendoodles, Maeby and George Michael. When she's not writing or speaking, Heather enjoys sharing everyday moments with her family, traveling, karaoke, and hosting a good happy hour with her friends.
Disabilities, Inclusion, School System, Down Syndrome, Challenges, Inclusive School Environment, Intellectual Disabilities, Empowerment, Personalized Decisions, Community Support, Middle School, Belonging
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Hey! Are you a parent of a loved one with a disability? Have you ever wanted to be on a podcast? Then I want to hear from you! Literally! Send me an audio message that I can include in an upcoming special episode.
Just click here to be directed to a website where you can record your response to the following question:
If you could go back in time to when your child was first diagnosed with a disability, what would you tell yourself?
I would LOVE to hear from you!!
And finally, if you have been wondering how long you need to keep certain documents, whether its a utility bill, and IEP, medical records, or an insurance policy, I have a quick and accessible one-page document for you to download that shares exactly how long you should be holding on to these items and when you can let them go (e.g. shred and/or recycle.)Click here to get on my email list and I will send this handy doc straight to your inbox.
And I promise I won't start bombarding your inbox with emails -- that is not my style! I just want to be able to stay in touch and keep you informed occasionally of resources to help you reclaim whatever it is YOU need!
Happy Organizing!
Are we friends? Connect with me:
Instagram (@yourspacereclaimed)
Facebook (Your Space Reclaimed)
Website Your Space Reclaimed Professional Organizing
42 min - 83 | Do YOU Need A Refill? How To Fill Your Cup With Simple Self Care Solutions
83 | Do YOU Need A Refill? How To Fill Your Cup With Simple Self Care Solutions
Jenny McGlothern, the visionary behind "Mama Needs a Refill," graces the podcast with her wisdom and warmth, offering a lifeline to special needs parents seeking balance in their hectic lives. Jenny shares how nurturing oneself isn't just beneficial—it's essential for being the rock our children need. As we step into 2025, these conversations promise to fill your cup with hope and actionable insights.
Imagine transforming everyday chaos into pockets of peace with simple yet profound self-care strategies. From visual cues to daily breathwork, she unpacks how these practices can help us maintain our authenticity and emotional balance.
We also explore the concept of mini retreats, perfect for those of us who crave rejuvenation but lack the time for full retreats. This episode is not just a conversation; it's a call to action to embrace self-care and find strength in community, offering tools and encouragement to every listener eager to start the year refreshed and empowered.
Creator of the Anchored Deck and Sack Lunch Mini Retreat, Jenny McGlothern of Mama Needs a Refill, her coaching and retreat business wrote a book with the same name, in the hopes that readers and clients would fill their Cups. She believes our Cup is our soul, and in her blog, retreats and client sessions she encourages individuals to discover their own fuel. Mama Needs a Refill: Finding Light in the Midst of Madness was published in the Fall of 2023. Jenny and her husband Rob have two young adult children and live in Seattle, Washington. She hopes that you discover something new about yourself in this conversation today and take away at least one tip or tool to help you hold a full Cup.
https://www.instagram.com/mamaneedsarefill/
www.mamaneedsarefill.com
[email protected]Special Needs Parents, Self-Care, Caregiving, Mindfulness, Rituals, Mini Retreats, Rejuvenation, Personal Space, Nurturing, Authenticity, Emotional Balance, Community, Empowerment, Well-being, Energy, Values, Rituals, Distractions, Enneagram Nines, Meditation, Physical Activity, Audiobook, Gratitude, Resilience, Support,-------
Hey! Are you a parent of a loved one with a disability? Have you ever wanted to be on a podcast? Then I want to hear from you! Literally! Send me an audio message that I can include in an upcoming special episode.
Just click here to be directed to a website where you can record your response to the following question:
If you could go back in time to when your child was first diagnosed with a disability, what would you tell yourself?
I would LOVE to hear from you!!
And finally, if you have been wondering how long you need to keep certain documents, whether its a utility bill, and IEP, medical records, or an insurance policy, I have a quick and accessible one-page document for you to download that shares exactly how long you should be holding on to these items and when you can let them go (e.g. shred and/or recycle.)Click here to get on my email list and I will send this handy doc straight to your inbox.
And I promise I won't start bombarding your inbox with emails -- that is not my style! I just want to be able to stay in touch and keep you informed occasionally of resources to help you reclaim whatever it is YOU need!
Happy Organizing!
Are we friends? Connect with me:
Instagram (@yourspacereclaimed)
Facebook (Your Space Reclaimed)
Website Your Space Reclaimed Professional Organizing
51 min - 82 | Protecting and Organizing Your Photos
82 | Organizing Your Photos
I am thrilled to welcome Cathi Nelson, the visionary CEO and founder of the Photo Managers. Her journey from a passionate scrapbooking enthusiast to a pioneering professional photo manager highlights the evolution of photography from film to digital and the growing need for effective strategies to manage our ever-expanding photo libraries. Cathi shares her five-step process to tackle photo organization, offering practical solutions specifically tailored for busy moms, including those caring for children with special needs.
We explore the art of curating photo collections using the 80-20 rule, practical tips to clear your collection of duplicates, blurry shots, and generic images, and share the ABCs of photo organizing, guiding you through prioritizing your collection, simplifying your life, and creating a meaningful legacy. This episode also delves into the emotional power of photos, emphasizing how they can strengthen family bonds, foster resilience, and provide comfort during emotional times.
Cathi Nelson is the visionary CEO and founder of The Photo Managers, the world's leading educational community dedicated to helping individuals and businesses manage, organize, and preserve their photo and video collections. With a passion for storytelling and preserving memories, Cathi has transformed a personal mission into a global movement. She’s the author of two books and has been features in many newspapers and articles over the years.Links - download our FREE checklists to help you find all those photos and videosInterested in a year long support group to get your photo organized? Check out our Photo Manager In Training Program - https://thephotomanagers.com/photo-manager-in-training/
For training videos check out our You Tube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@thephotomanagers
https://thephotomanagers.com/checklists-forms-bundle/
Photo Organization, Photo Management, Digital Photos, Analog Photos, Photo Collection, Kathy Nelson, Photo Managers, Scrapbooking, Busy Moms, Special Needs, Curating Photos, 80-20 Rule, Duplicates, Backup Strategies, File Naming, Legacy, Emotional Power, Authentic Storytelling, Technicalities, Backup Method, Memories, Special Needs Moms, Supportive Community-------
Hey! Are you a parent of a loved one with a disability? Have you ever wanted to be on a podcast? Then I want to hear from you! Literally! Send me an audio message that I can include in an upcoming special episode.
Just click here to be directed to a website where you can record your response to the following question:
If you could go back in time to when your child was first diagnosed with a disability, what would you tell yourself?
I would LOVE to hear from you!!
And finally, if you have been wondering how long you need to keep certain documents, whether its a utility bill, and IEP, medical records, or an insurance policy, I have a quick and accessible one-page document for you to download that shares exactly how long you should be holding on to these items and when you can let them go (e.g. shred and/or recycle.)Click here to get on my email list and I will send this handy doc straight to your inbox.
And I promise I won't start bombarding your inbox with emails -- that is not my style! I just want to be able to stay in touch and keep you informed occasionally of resources to help you reclaim whatever it is YOU need!
Happy Organizing!
Are we friends? Connect with me:
Instagram (@yourspacereclaimed)
Facebook (Your Space Reclaimed)
Website Your Space Reclaimed Professional Organizing
42 min - 81 | Life Hacks I'm Bringing Into 2025
81 | Life Hacks I'm Bringing Into 2025
Welcome to Season 5 in 2025!
Let me help you unlock the secrets to managing a bustling household with my top life hacks designed especially for us busy special needs moms! As we kick off season five of Especially Organized, join me, Angela, as we explore creative strategies to usher in a more organized and serene home environment. Excited to step into 2025 with renewed routines, I discuss the concept of a "power clean" — a powerful yet quick cleaning method perfect for resetting your home during the busiest times. Discover how simple visual or audio cues can transform these small bursts of activity into enduring habits, fostering a sense of order amidst the chaos. I'll also share my innovative "triage bin" system to help prioritize tasks and bring calm to your daily life.
But that's not all! Tune in for even more actionable household management tips. Whether you're navigating the unique challenges of raising a special needs child or simply seeking ways to streamline your routine, these tips promise to reclaim peace in your daily life.
Busy Moms, Life Hacks, Household Management, Organized, Power Clean, Visual Cues, Triage Bin, Special Needs, Daily Routines, Time Efficiency, Donation Spot, Decluttering, Peaceful Environment, Chaos Reduction, Harmonious Home
-------
Hey! Are you a parent of a loved one with a disability? Have you ever wanted to be on a podcast? Then I want to hear from you! Literally! Send me an audio message that I can include in an upcoming special episode.
Just click here to be directed to a website where you can record your response to the following question:
If you could go back in time to when your child was first diagnosed with a disability, what would you tell yourself?
I would LOVE to hear from you!!
And finally, if you have been wondering how long you need to keep certain documents, whether its a utility bill, and IEP, medical records, or an insurance policy, I have a quick and accessible one-page document for you to download that shares exactly how long you should be holding on to these items and when you can let them go (e.g. shred and/or recycle.)Click here to get on my email list and I will send this handy doc straight to your inbox.
And I promise I won't start bombarding your inbox with emails -- that is not my style! I just want to be able to stay in touch and keep you informed occasionally of resources to help you reclaim whatever it is YOU need!
Happy Organizing!
Are we friends? Connect with me:
Instagram (@yourspacereclaimed)
Facebook (Your Space Reclaimed)
Website Your Space Reclaimed Professional Organizing
20 min - 80 | Preparing For The Holidays With Special Needs Kids (Replay)
80 | Preparing For The Holidays With Special Needs Kids (Replay)
Join me this week as we explore how to navigate the holiday season with special needs children. Let's get prepared to create a calming and inviting environment, making sure your kids have a joyful and stress-free holiday, and that you can take care of yourself during this bustling time of the year.
From setting up a guest room to managing sensory overload, this episode provides practical advice for a memorable holiday season. I’ll also discuss how to make the holidays meaningful through thoughtful gift-giving and creating lasting family memories.
I will specifically cover 4 areas:
- holiday decorating
- travel/hosting guests
- food and
- gifts
I'll also be sharing useful tips on how to ask for help, maintain your sanity during the holiday rush, and how to ensure that the holiday season goes as smooth as possible, considering that it is in fact, the holidays! :)
I hope this episode proves to be a valuable resource for parents who want to create a memorable holiday experience for the kids but also, not go over the top and lose your sanity in the process.
-------
Hey! Are you a parent of a loved one with a disability? Have you ever wanted to be on a podcast? Then I want to hear from you! Literally! Send me an audio message that I can include in an upcoming special episode.
Just click here to be directed to a website where you can record your response to the following question:
If you could go back in time to when your child was first diagnosed with a disability, what would you tell yourself?
I would LOVE to hear from you!!
And finally, if you have been wondering how long you need to keep certain documents, whether its a utility bill, and IEP, medical records, or an insurance policy, I have a quick and accessible one-page document for you to download that shares exactly how long you should be holding on to these items and when you can let them go (e.g. shred and/or recycle.)Click here to get on my email list and I will send this handy doc straight to your inbox.
And I promise I won't start bombarding your inbox with emails -- that is not my style! I just want to be able to stay in touch and keep you informed occasionally of resources to help you reclaim whatever it is YOU need!
Happy Organizing!
Are we friends? Connect with me:
Instagram (@yourspacereclaimed)
Facebook (Your Space Reclaimed)
Website Your Space Reclaimed Professional Organizing
27 min - 79 | How To Have Clutter-Free Christmas: A Gift-Giving Guide
79 | How To Have Clutter-Free Christmas: A Gift-Giving Guide
Angela here, ready to help transform your holiday season from overwhelming to joyful. Picture this: a Christmas morning without the clutter, where the focus is on the laughter shared and the traditions cherished. As a mom of a special needs child, I've had my share of stressful holidays, but over time I’ve discovered strategies that truly make a difference. Engage with me as I share insights on how to keep the spirit of the season alive by prioritizing meaningful family traditions over the avalanche of gifts. From practical approaches like the three-gift or four-gift rules to having open-hearted conversations with family about shifting the holiday focus, let's create a peaceful, clutter-free celebration that honors your child's unique needs and your family's dynamics.Holiday Season, Special Needs Children, Simplify, Christmas, Stress, Clutter, Prioritizing, Family Traditions, Gifts, Three-Gift Rule, Four-Gift Rule, Charitable Activities, Consumable Items, Upgrades, Experiences, Memories, Grandparents, Sentimental Gifts, Amazon Wish List
-------
Hey! Are you a parent of a loved one with a disability? Have you ever wanted to be on a podcast? Then I want to hear from you! Literally! Send me an audio message that I can include in an upcoming special episode.
Just click here to be directed to a website where you can record your response to the following question:
If you could go back in time to when your child was first diagnosed with a disability, what would you tell yourself?
I would LOVE to hear from you!!
And finally, if you have been wondering how long you need to keep certain documents, whether its a utility bill, and IEP, medical records, or an insurance policy, I have a quick and accessible one-page document for you to download that shares exactly how long you should be holding on to these items and when you can let them go (e.g. shred and/or recycle.)Click here to get on my email list and I will send this handy doc straight to your inbox.
And I promise I won't start bombarding your inbox with emails -- that is not my style! I just want to be able to stay in touch and keep you informed occasionally of resources to help you reclaim whatever it is YOU need!
Happy Organizing!
Are we friends? Connect with me:
Instagram (@yourspacereclaimed)
Facebook (Your Space Reclaimed)
Website Your Space Reclaimed Professional Organizing
21 min - 78 | Dear Me: A Letter To The Mom I Once Was Before My Daughter was Born with Down Syndrome
78 | Dear Me: A Letter To The Mom I Once Was Before My Daughter Was Born With Down Syndrome
When I first held my daughter Casey Jane after her Down syndrome diagnosis 21 years ago, life seemed like uncharted territory filled with uncertainties, fear, and grief. Yet, over the years, this journey has become a profound story of love, growth, and the discovery of a resilient community. In this episode, I share a letter I wrote to my past self, an exercise I did with other Lucky Mamas at a recent retreat for those of us who parent kids with Down Syndrome. It took 21 years for me to get to this point of equilibrium and peace. And I hope that by sharing my thoughts I can get the mom whose kiddo has just been newly diagnosed there just a bit faster! I am grateful to get to be part of a community that acknowledges both the challenges and unexpected joys of raising a child with special needs. And I welcome all newcomers!Happy Birthday to my Casey Jane! I am so thankful for you and all you do to make this world a better place!
Down Syndrome, Parenting, Support Systems, Lucky Mamas Retreat, Special Needs, Community, Self-Care, Empowerment, Nurturing, Reflection, Challenges, Gifts, Reclaiming, Special Needs Moms,
-------Hey! Are you a parent of a loved one with a disability? Have you ever wanted to be on a podcast? Then I want to hear from you! Literally! Send me an audio message that I can include in an upcoming special episode.
Just click here to be directed to a website where you can record your response to the following question:
If you could go back in time to when your child was first diagnosed with a disability, what would you tell yourself?
I would LOVE to hear from you!!
And finally, if you have been wondering how long you need to keep certain documents, whether its a utility bill, and IEP, medical records, or an insurance policy, I have a quick and accessible one-page document for you to download that shares exactly how long you should be holding on to these items and when you can let them go (e.g. shred and/or recycle.)Click here to get on my email list and I will send this handy doc straight to your inbox.
And I promise I won't start bombarding your inbox with emails -- that is not my style! I just want to be able to stay in touch and keep you informed occasionally of resources to help you reclaim whatever it is YOU need!
Happy Organizing!
Are we friends? Connect with me:
Instagram (@yourspacereclaimed)
Facebook (Your Space Reclaimed)
Website Your Space Reclaimed Professional Organizing
14 min - BONUS Enneagram 7 Tip of the Week: Especially Enneagram Series
BONUS Enneagram 7 Tip of the Week: Especially Enneagram Series
In addition to my weekly episodes highlighting each of the Enneagram personalities as they relate to special needs parenting, I am offering some BONUS content each week that highlights one suggestion, tip, hack or source of encouragement for each Enneagram type.
Follow along each Thursday for the next few weeks and see how using the lens of the Enneagram might help you reclaim what you need in this season.
-------
Hey! Are you a parent of a loved one with a disability? Have you ever wanted to be on a podcast? Then I want to hear from you! Literally! Send me an audio message that I can include in an upcoming special episode.
Just click here to be directed to a website where you can record your response to the following question:
If you could go back in time to when your child was first diagnosed with a disability, what would you tell yourself?
I would LOVE to hear from you!!
And finally, if you have been wondering how long you need to keep certain documents, whether its a utility bill, and IEP, medical records, or an insurance policy, I have a quick and accessible one-page document for you to download that shares exactly how long you should be holding on to these items and when you can let them go (e.g. shred and/or recycle.)Click here to get on my email list and I will send this handy doc straight to your inbox.
And I promise I won't start bombarding your inbox with emails -- that is not my style! I just want to be able to stay in touch and keep you informed occasionally of resources to help you reclaim whatever it is YOU need!
Happy Organizing!
Are we friends? Connect with me:
Instagram (@yourspacereclaimed)
Facebook (Your Space Reclaimed)
Website Your Space Reclaimed Professional Organizing
9 min - 77 | Especially Enneagram Series: Special Needs Parenting as an Enneagram 7
77 | Especially Enneagram Series: Special Needs Parenting as an Enneagram 7
It is time for our final episode in this series. We are talking about Enneagram 7s, The EnthusiastsDr. Tom LaHue is a graduate of Johnson Univ, FL. He holds 3 Master's Degrees, including an MDiv from Liberty Univ. His Doctoral degree is from Grace College and Seminary. He is also a certified Marriage Coach. He and his wife Traci have been married since 1991. They are the proud parents of 5 children and 3 grandchildren.Tom's YouTube Channel: http://www.youtube.com/@twlahueHow to connect with Tom: https://linktr.ee/drtomlahue
-------
Hey! Are you a parent of a loved one with a disability? Have you ever wanted to be on a podcast? Then I want to hear from you! Literally! Send me an audio message that I can include in an upcoming special episode.
Just click here to be directed to a website where you can record your response to the following question:
If you could go back in time to when your child was first diagnosed with a disability, what would you tell yourself?
I would LOVE to hear from you!!
And finally, if you have been wondering how long you need to keep certain documents, whether its a utility bill, and IEP, medical records, or an insurance policy, I have a quick and accessible one-page document for you to download that shares exactly how long you should be holding on to these items and when you can let them go (e.g. shred and/or recycle.)Click here to get on my email list and I will send this handy doc straight to your inbox.
And I promise I won't start bombarding your inbox with emails -- that is not my style! I just want to be able to stay in touch and keep you informed occasionally of resources to help you reclaim whatever it is YOU need!
Happy Organizing!
Are we friends? Connect with me:
Instagram (@yourspacereclaimed)
Facebook (Your Space Reclaimed)
Website Your Space Reclaimed Professional Organizing
1 hr 4 min - BONUS Enneagram 6 Tip of the Week: Especially Enneagram Series
BONUS Enneagram 6 Tip of the Week: Especially Enneagram Series
In addition to my weekly episodes highlighting each of the Enneagram personalities as they relate to special needs parenting, I am offering some BONUS content each week that highlights one suggestion, tip, hack or source of encouragement for each Enneagram type.
Follow along each Thursday for the next few weeks and see how using the lens of the Enneagram might help you reclaim what you need in this season.
-------
Hey! Are you a parent of a loved one with a disability? Have you ever wanted to be on a podcast? Then I want to hear from you! Literally! Send me an audio message that I can include in an upcoming special episode.
Just click here to be directed to a website where you can record your response to the following question:
If you could go back in time to when your child was first diagnosed with a disability, what would you tell yourself?
I would LOVE to hear from you!!
And finally, if you have been wondering how long you need to keep certain documents, whether its a utility bill, and IEP, medical records, or an insurance policy, I have a quick and accessible one-page document for you to download that shares exactly how long you should be holding on to these items and when you can let them go (e.g. shred and/or recycle.)Click here to get on my email list and I will send this handy doc straight to your inbox.
And I promise I won't start bombarding your inbox with emails -- that is not my style! I just want to be able to stay in touch and keep you informed occasionally of resources to help you reclaim whatever it is YOU need!
Happy Organizing!
Are we friends? Connect with me:
Instagram (@yourspacereclaimed)
Facebook (Your Space Reclaimed)
Website Your Space Reclaimed Professional Organizing
9 min
About Especially Organized: Sensible Solutions for Special Needs Moms
From the publisher's feed
For all those busy moms out there who, like me, take care of kids who have a little something extra, and in the midst of all that extra, want to lead a more organized and present life. I am Angela…
O’Brien; a certified Enneagram coach and professional organizer. I know what it’s like to have too much overwhelm and too little time when you’re trying to raise a special needs child. Each week, I will bring information and encouragement to help you move through your clutter so that you are less stressed and more present in your parenting. Let's reclaim the space, time, and energy you deserve!
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