Episode #012
Every day we show up and perform in life. Do you want to know the secret to performing with joy and fulfillment? Listen to this episode to find out the secrets! Amazing insights from my friend and mentor Dr. Christie Sowby. Subscribe to the channel for more insights from women who have lived a generous life!

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☘️Meet my Guest:
Dr. Christie Sowby is an accomplished pianist, teacher, and leader in the world of music education. She is also my good friend and mentor. She has won awards for her teaching and performing and has even played in Carnegie Hall in New York. She also is a mother of an amazing special needs daughter. She contributes so much to the world of music and is a light to everyone around her. Her desire to just make the world a little better is a true testament to her goodness.

☘️What You'll Hear:
• Christie's belief in the power of support and encouragement from family.
• The importance of pursuing one's passions despite challenges.
• Resilience is key when facing life's unexpected trials.
• Education and continuous learning are vital for personal growth.
• The role of mindset in performance and achieving goals.
• Finding joy in serving others and contributing to their lives.
• The significance of accepting people for who they are.
• Overcoming obstacles can lead to unexpected blessings.
• The impact of a supportive community during difficult times.
• Music can be a powerful tool for connection and expression.

☘️Chapters:
00:00 Intro to Sendy Mom Podcast
00:46 Introducing Dr. Christie Sowby
06:07 The Impact of Supportive Influences
09:16 Learning the Piano
12:53 Seeing Others Deeply
15:04 The Role of Family in Personal Growth
17:41 Taking Risks in Pursuit of Passion
20:08 The Importance of Mentorship
22:33 Enjoying Serving Those who Can't Help Themselves
26:02 Navigating the Challenges of Parenting a Child with Disabilities
34:02 Transformative Life Changes and Resilience
37:50 High Performance Techniques and Mindset
44:29 The Journey of Education and Personal Growth
46:26 Rapid Fire Questions
52:33 Sendy Mom Outro.mp4

☘️Mentioned in the Show:
The Piano Guys - John Schmidt

Episode #001 Sendy Mom Podcast - Radical Acceptance with Miriam Wood

Distinguished Young Women

“The Fearless Mind” Craig Manning

Extended piano technique

Boys in the Boat - Daniel James Brown

Harry Potter - J.K. Rowling

Sendy Spotlight on:
"Yeonmi Park: A voice of resilience, transforming unimaginable hardship into a mission for freedom and human rights."

Enjoy my brief overview of Yeonmi Park who escaped North Korea and has become an advocate for human rights in the world.

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☘️Mentioned in the Show:
In Order to Live - Yeonmi Park

firstanswers.com - Lynn Scoresby

Yeonmi Park Instagram

Liberty in North Korea

In this engaging episode of the Sendy Mom podcast, host Becky Brouwer interviews her sister Emily, exploring their shared upbringing, personal challenges, and the principles of resilience and service that have shaped their lives. Emily shares her journey through childhood, education, and the impact of ADHD on her learning and teaching methods. The conversation highlights the importance of family values, personal growth, and the unique path Emily has taken, culminating in Emily's current work in Theatre fitness. In this conversation, Emily shares her journey of finding community, overcoming insecurities, and reinventing her fitness programs after moving to Indiana. She discusses the emotional toll of isolation and how creativity emerged from adversity, leading her to teach and impact youth through theatre fitness. Emily emphasizes the importance of resilience in entrepreneurship and the need for healthy learning environments for kids.

What you’ll Hear:

• Resilience is key to overcoming life's challenges.
• Family support plays a crucial role in personal development.
• Service to others can help overcome feelings of isolation.
• Education can be a struggle, but hard work pays off.
• ADHD can be managed through understanding and support.
• It's important to recognize and harness one's strengths.
• Dreams may change, but the journey is valuable.
• Teaching children principles of service fosters empathy.
• Personal growth often comes from difficult experiences.
• Embracing one's unique qualities leads to success. Community helped me overcome insecurities.
• Reinventing fitness programs was a necessity.
• Isolation took an emotional toll on me.
• Creativity emerged from adversity.
• Teaching youth is my passion.
• Resilience is key in entrepreneurship.
• Healthy learning environments are crucial for kids.
• I want theater fitness to be globally accessible.
• Letting go of insecurities is essential.
• Personal growth comes from overcoming challenges.

Chapters:

00:00 Sisterly Bonds and Backgrounds

05:34 Resilience and Overcoming Challenges

11:54 Tools to Help Children with ADHD

15:44 Teaching Principles of Service

22:47 ADHD and Personal Growth

31:54 Dreams, Aspirations, and Life Choices

35:30 Finding Community and Overcoming Insecurities

36:52 Reinventing Fitness Programs

38:31 The Emotional Toll of Isolation

40:41 Creativity Born from Adversity

42:03 Transitioning to Teaching and New Opportunities

43:25 Resilience in Entrepreneurship

45:06 Impacting Youth Through Fitness and Theater

49:24 Building Resilience in Kids

51:48 The Future of Theater Fitness

54:45 Rapid Fire Questions and Personal Insights

01:03:13 Outro words and music.mp3

The Sendy Spotlight this week is on Maria Montessori, an influential figure in education known for her innovative approach that emphasizes independence, creativity, and hands-on learning. I highlight her journey as a pioneering woman in medicine and education, her establishment of the Montessori method, and include practical tools for parents to foster these values in their children.

Takeaways:

• Maria Montessori was one of Italy's first female doctors.
• She developed the Montessori method through observation of children's learning.
• Montessori believed in the power of a supportive environment for learning.
• Her first school, Casa de Bombini, opened in 1907.
• Montessori education prioritizes independence and creativity.
• Children learn best when they can choose their activities.
• Practical life skills are essential in Montessori education.
• Encouraging independence builds confidence in children.
• Creativity flourishes in a supportive environment.
• Persistence and resilience are key traits to model for children.

Mentioned in this Bonus Episode:
https://montessori-ami.org/resource-library/facts/biography-maria-montessori

“The Parenting Breakthrough” by Merrilee Browne Boyack
sendymom.com 

Learn about the importance of teaching children independence and a strong work ethic. We discuss the challenges of fostering and adopting children, the impact of childhood experiences on personal growth, and the significance of creativity in building relationships. Lani shares her journey of self-discovery and the lessons learned through navigating trauma and parenting challenges, emphasizing the importance of being real and supportive in the lives of children.

What you’ll Hear:

• Being a 'Sendy Mom' involves teaching children essential life skills.
• Work ethic is instilled through hands-on family experiences.
• Encouraging children to take risks builds their self-confidence.
• Family traditions create lasting memories and connections.
• Self-confidence can be nurtured through supportive parenting.
• Creativity is essential for personal growth and expression.
• Starting a business can stem from a passion for creativity.
• Community and relationships are vital in creative pursuits.
• It's important to embrace discomfort in the learning process.
• Teaching children to do hard things prepares them for life. There's a learning curve in trying new things.
• Ceramics can be a fun family activity.
• Adoption can be a challenging but rewarding journey.
• Reactive attachment disorder affects children's ability to connect.
• Trauma can have a lasting impact on family dynamics.
• It's important to be real about struggles to help others.
• Love alone may not be enough for children with trauma.
• Personal growth often comes from facing adversity.
• Finding joy in small moments can be uplifting.
• Exploring new hobbies can lead to personal fulfillment.

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to the Sendy Mom Podcast

00:54 Lani working with her Dad in Construction as a Child

03:05 Teaching Your Children to Work

07:04 Do or Do Not. There is No Try. Whiteboard Messages

08:37 Family Traditions and Memories

13:59 High School Experiences and Self-Confidence

17:30 Teach Children to Have a Full Life through Creativity

23:03 Starting a Ceramics Business

28:17 The Journey of Ceramics and Community

30:16 The Art of Ceramics and Family Engagement

34:42 Navigating the Journey of Adoption

35:03 The Challenges of Fostering and Adoption

38:34 Understanding Reactive Attachment Disorder

44:42 The Impact of Trauma on Family Dynamics

49:51 Growth Through Adversity and Life Lessons

53:39 Rapid Fire Questions

56:21 Exploring New Interests and Hobbies

Mentioned in the Show:

Inventing Anna

I Want to Trust You, But I Don’t

Sendy Spotlight:
Maria Montessori:
"The greatest sign of success for a teacher is to be able to say, 'The children are now working as if I did not exist.'"
 "Never help a child with a task at which he feels he can succeed."

https://montessori-ami.org/resource-library/facts/biography-maria-montessori

“The Parenting Breakthrough” by Merrilee Browne Boyack

In this powerful Sendy Spotlight, Becky Brouwer honors the life and legacy of Sacagawea—an Indigenous Shoshone woman who turned deep trauma into courageous leadership. Kidnapped as a child, forced into marriage, and abused by her husband, Sacagawea nonetheless became an essential guide, interpreter, and peacemaker on the famed Lewis and Clark Expedition—all while carrying her infant son. Her quiet strength, resilience, and ability to choose dignity in the face of dehumanization mirror the remarkable journey of this week’s guest, Faith.

Becky draws inspiration from Viktor Frankl’s Man’s Search for Meaning, inviting listeners to consider how personal choice, even amidst suffering, becomes a path to meaning and legacy. She also shares a passionate call to parents: pass on your values deliberately. Whether you're the first in your line to do so or following generations before you, you have the power to shape your family's future.

This episode is a heartfelt tribute to Sacagawea and a rallying cry to all Sendy Moms and Dads: teach with purpose. Lead with courage. Just send it.

Mentioned in the Show:

Mentioned in the Show:

Man’s Search for Meaning by Viktor Frankl

Surviving Sex Trafficking and Advocating for Change on The Sendy Mom Podcast

In this conversation, Becky Brouwer interviews Faith Robles, a survivor of trafficking, who shares her harrowing journey from childhood trauma to empowerment. Faith discusses her experiences with abuse, the normalization of trafficking in her community, and her eventual escape. She emphasizes the importance of advocacy, healing, and legislative efforts to support survivors. Faith also highlights her aspirations for the future, including writing a book and continuing her work in advocacy.

What you’ll Hear:

• Faith Robles is an indigenous Mayan from Chiapas, Mexico.
• She experienced child neglect and abuse from a young age.
• Trafficking is often normalized in certain communities, perpetuating a cycle of abuse.
• Faith's trafficker was also a minor, highlighting the complexity of trafficking dynamics.
• She escaped her trafficking situation in April 2014 by seeking help from the NYPD.
• Advocacy for survivors includes working on legislation to protect and support them.
• Healing from trauma is a long and complex process that requires support and understanding.
• Faith aims to write a book about her experiences to raise awareness.
• She emphasizes the importance of self-advocacy and asking for help.
• Faith's future aspirations include continuing her advocacy work and reconnecting with her roots. 

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Faith's Journey

02:25 Understanding Trafficking and Its Roots

05:10 The Cycle of Generational Trauma

08:15 The Complexity of Victimhood

11:04 Faith's Escape and the Role of Law Enforcement

16:42 Help from a Stranger

19:11 Faith's work with We Are PACT Survivor's Council

22:33 Learning a Language is Sendy

24:48 Discrimination of Indigenous People in Mexico

30:02 Resources for Survivors

35:56 The Journey of Healing and Support

45:47 Finding Joy in Simple Things

49:43 Addressing the Root Causes of Trafficking and The Equality Model

52:00 Future Aspirations and Advocacy

01:01:30 Rapid Fire Questions

01:06:03 Outro words and music.mp3

Sound Bites:

"I want to write a book of my story."

"I need to ask for help."

"I want to go to Disneyland."

Mentioned in the Show:

https://www.womenshistory.org/education-resources/biographies/sacagawea

Trata de Mujeres: De Tenancingo a Nueva York - very disturbing and only in Spanish

PACT

Dahlia’s Hope

Episode #003 - Natural Healing Roots: Lessons from a Sendy Mom with Debora Fletcher

Episode #004 - Sendy Bucket Lists with Jeanetta Robinson

Meet Me Next Christmas

Rising Strong by Brené Brown

‘I Will Never Forgive You’: Sex Trafficking Survivor Helps Put Her Captors Behind Bars by Aaron Rasmussen

Faith’s Freedom Fireside

Join me as we learn more about Corrie ten Boom (1892-1983) in this week's Sendy Spotlight - Brave defender of right, Humanitarian,

Faithful Believer, Speaker, Humble Servant.

Episode #008 In this episode of the Sendy Mom podcast, Becky Brouwer and Kim Jonas explore the concept of being a 'Sendy Mom'—a mother who embraces challenges and adventures that push her out of her comfort zone. They discuss the importance of self-care, family dynamics, and the balance between personal aspirations and parenting responsibilities. The conversation highlights the value of teaching children to take risks, the significance of family traditions, and the joy found in everyday moments. Through personal anecdotes and insights, they inspire listeners to embrace their own Sendy journeys.

Meet my Guest:

Kim Jonas is one of my fearless friends. She is as at home in a group of people “working the room” as she is ministering to the one. She is fearless defender of motherhood and her role as teacher and role model for her children. Kim’s family have developed traditions that bind their family together that include sendy things like traveling to Europe on bikes with her husband and five children, the youngest at only 9 years old. Taking opportunities to teach their children every day about things their family values, the Jonas’s deliberately take moments to build courage, resilience, and humility in their children. I learn so much from my friend, Kim in this episode. Enjoy our chat! Isn’t it fun to be a spider in the room?

What you’ll Hear:

• A Sendy mom is someone who does things that frighten them.
• Self-care is essential for being able to give to others.
• Balancing life and self-care can be challenging but rewarding.
• Teaching children to take risks is important for their growth.
• Family dynamics play a crucial role in shaping children's experiences.
• Navigating life's challenges can provide valuable lessons for families.
• Education and personal growth are lifelong pursuits.
• Finding balance in motherhood requires intentionality and purpose.
• Physical activities can enhance mental health and family bonding.
• Creating traditions helps strengthen family connections

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction and Friendship Origins

01:55 Defining a 'Sendy Mom' 

05:52 Extroversion and Introversion

08:55 Parenting Philosophy and Risk-Taking

11:41 Navigating Entrepreneurship and Family Dynamics

14:19 Choosing a Life Partner and Family Values

14:48 Education Journey and Future Aspirations

17:08 Pursuing Hobbies and Personal Growth

19:10 The Importance of Motherhood and Personal Fulfillment

21:44 Sendy Parenting

23:28 Swimming and Triathlons

29:36 Bike Packing through Europe

30:53 Spontaneity in Travel

35:27 Teaching Life Lessons Through Experiences

37:48 Boating and Camping at Lake Powell

39:41 Exploring Family Traditions and Vacations

43:25 The Importance of Family Connections

45:05 Rapid Fire Questions

52:37 Outro words and music.mp3

Sound Bites:

“You can’t give from an empty cup” (4:18) Kim Jonas

"We're going to roll with the punches."

"You can do something that frightens you."

Mentioned in the Show:

Tattoos on the Heart by Gregory Boyle

26.2 to Life on ESPN and Hulu

The Small and the Mighty by Sharon McMahon

Here’s Where it Gets Interesting with Sharon McMahon

Today, I am excited to talk to my good friend, Mary Jean Ridges. We met when our children started spending time together. They have similar interests and are both on the mountain biking team. Born in Idaho and raised Kaysville, she attended Davis High School, Weber State University, and the University of South Carolina where she obtained a Masters in Social work. She is the 4th of nine children and was raised by parents of opposite upbringing, one from New York and one from West Virginia. She and her husband are raising 4 children, 3 who live at home. She is a licensed clinical social worker at Wasatch Behavioral Health Mountain Peaks Clinic. She enjoys being a ride leader with NICA, riding with all 4 of her children on the local mountain bike team for the past six years. I love her desire to share her story and willingness to listen to other people’s stories.

What You'll Hear:

• Pain can be a gift that helps us recognize when something needs fixing.
• Being a Sendy Mom means embracing challenges and encouraging others.
• Family support is crucial in fostering confidence and risk-taking.
• Cultural experiences can broaden perspectives and promote empathy.
• Service and humanitarian work can lead to personal fulfillment and growth.
• Parenting should focus on teaching competence and independence.
• Engaging in hobbies can provide joy and a sense of accomplishment.
• Community connections are vital for emotional support and growth.
• Overcoming fears can lead to deeper relationships and personal satisfaction.

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Sendy Moms and Community

03:03 Defining a Sendy Mom

05:42 Family Background and Influences

07:49 Encouraging Risk-Taking in Children

09:46 Life Lessons from College and Travel

12:39 Mary Jean's mother's work in a Leporasorium

16:32 Healing from Trauma through Forming Relationships

25:41 Empowering Children Through Responsibility

33:16 Navigating Risk and Freedom in Parenting

36:19 The Balance of Passion and Practicality

38:35 The Joy of Hobbies and Lifelong Learning

40:50 Cow-Co-ops with the neighborhood Cow

47:39 Facing Fears and Embracing Vulnerability

51:49 Rapid Fire Questions

Mentioned in the Show:

Luke Whitlock - Red Bull Rampage

Cabrini - TV Show

Stories we Tell - Joanna Gaines

Homosexuality Reframed: Growth Beyond Gay - Thomas Pritt, PhD with Ann Pritt PhD

Christian Medical College Vellore

Sendy Spotlight:
Dr. Paul Brand "I thank God for pain. I cannot think of a greater gift I could give my leprosy patients.”