In this bonus series, Mary Susan presents easy to accomplish creative tasks that can help get parents out of their brain-space and into a fun (and inexpensive) activity for themselves. Listen to episode 84 first and then proceed through the 6 segments at your own pace. (This bonus series does not take the place of regularly scheduled episodes). Mary Susan can be found here: Instagram: @marysusanmcconnell Facebook: @marysusanmcconnell www.marysusanmcconnell.com

In this bonus series, Mary Susan presents easy to accomplish creative tasks that can help get parents out of their brain-space and into a fun (and inexpensive) activity for themselves. Listen to this introduction first and then proceed through the next 6 segments. (This bonus series does not take the place of regularly scheduled episodes). Mary Susan can be found here: Instagram: @marysusanmcconnell Facebook: @marysusanmcconnell www.marysusanmcconnell.com

In this episode, Mary Susan speaks with Crystal about her journey gaining weight after her son's diagnosis, and the motivation it took to put herself on a path towards emotional, mental, and physical health. You can find Mary Susan at IG: @marysusanmcconnell FB: @marysusanmcconnell www.marysusanmcconnell.com You can find Crystal at: IG: @reducedfatmomma

82. Ten Tiny Things I Do That Bring Solitude Amidst the Chaos by Conversations w/ Women Raising Children with Special Needs

At 26 years old, Natalie Castro became the guardian of her adult sister who has autism. In this discussion, Natalie speaks on what it was like growing up with her sister Angie, how it has impacted her life professionally, what her life looks like now (as the guardian to Angie) and what she sees for their future. Angie can be found at: www.piecesofinspiration.com Sign up for Angie's Webinar: https://natalie-castro-e415.mykajabi.com/Pieces-of-back-to-school-webinar-registration-page

80. Bill Gates Docuseries to Lash Extensions- Let’s Talk About Things Other than Motherhood Today by Conversations w/ Women Raising Children with Special Needs

In this episode Mary Susan speaks about the incessant brainstorming that can happen when you're raising a child with special needs. She also shares other mothers' "Why is X Happening?" stories.

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In this episode, host Mary Susan McConnell speaks with friend and educational advocate Mathew Portell about his work as principal of a nationally recognized innovative model school for trauma-informed practices. Find Mathew here: Edutopia Video Series: https://www.edutopia.org/school/fall-hamilton-elementary Website: www.paradigmshifteducation.com Twitter: @principalest Instagram: @principalest

September is NICU Awareness Month. In this episode, Mary Susan speaks with listener turned guest, Katie Hovell about her experience in the NICU and life thereafter. Follow Katie on instagram: @kmhovell Follow Mary Susan: - instagram- @marysusanmcconnell - Sign up for newsletter at www.marysusanmconnell.com