Take Heart

Episode 148:: November 7, 2023
  How to Be Content When Your Life Isn’t Easy

Summary: In this episode, Amy discusses the concept of contentment and how it can be challenging to achieve when life isn’t easy. Amy explores the impact of unmet expectations, "if only" thinking, and comparison that contribute to our discontent. She shares personal stories and offers practical steps to help you shift your perspective, find gratitude, and embrace delight in your life.

Key Moments:

[3:10] Three traps that lead to discontent

[5:11] Endless "if onlys" suggest we're never enough

[9:08] Delight doesn't fix what's broken, gives us fuel to press on

[10:36] Noticing the good

Resources:
Is this what you expected? Lisa Qualls 

On Delight and Why it Matters: Shauna Niequist 

If you enjoyed the show:

• Have you purchased our new book, The Other Side of Special? 
• Subscribe to our newsletter on the Take Heart Website
• Get our free resource on finding Gratitude, Peace, and Hope
• Review and like us on Apple Podcasts 
• Share us with others from wherever you listen to podcasts
• Follow us on Instagram @takeheartspecialmoms
• Find Amy at www.amyjbrown.com/  or on Instagram @amyjbrown_writer
• Find Carrie at www.carriemholt.com or on Instagram @carriemholt
• Find Sara at www.saraclime.com or on Instagram @saraclime

Amy speaks with Jodie Gerling, an advocate for families facing medical challenges. They explore the transformative role of creativity in healing and processing emotions. Drawing from her personal experiences, Jody uses creativity as a tool for grounding herself, finding strength and the comfort of home even when she’s in the hospital and embracing gratitude. She has found that creativity leads her to present-moment living and noticing the little God moments in the stress of complicated things.

Episode 147: October 31, 2023

Key Moments:

[1:51] Creativity does matter

[5:14] Staying present is hard but necessary work.

[9:48] Don’t have a creative bone in your body?

[14:08] Pack something for ourselves when going to the hospital

[21:32] Our past hospital memories can creep up and turn to fear

Resources:
Jodie’s Reading in Our Story Magazine 

When God Made You 

Finding Thanks

The Coloring Book Project 

Jodies Website.: Jodiegerling.com

If you enjoyed the show:

• Have you purchased our new book, The Other Side of Special? 
• Subscribe to our newsletter on the Take Heart Website
• Get our free resource on finding Gratitude, Peace, and Hope
• Review and like us on Apple Podcasts 
• Share us with others from wherever you listen to podcasts
• Follow us on Instagram @takeheartspecialmoms
• Find Amy at www.amyjbrown.com/  or on Instagram @amyjbrown_writer
• Find Carrie at www.carriemholt.com or on Instagram @carriemholt
• Find Sara at www.saraclime.com or on Instagram @saraclime

In this collaborative episode, Carrie, Amy, and Sara discuss how best to support friends and family members who are going through difficult times. Speaking from personal experience, they talk about the blessings and difficulties of walking through suffering with others. This episode practically discusses how to provide compassionate care to others, alongside what is and isn’t helpful when walking through something difficult with friends. They share stories and insights on vulnerability, carrying other friends’ burdens, and navigating grief. 

Ep.146; October 24, 2023

Key Moments:
[4:30] Empathetic listeners
[7:50] Unhelpful platitudes 
[11:54] Having different friends is important for different aspects of life 
[17:42] Shying away from suffering
[21:10] Being with people, not solving the difficult questions
[24:36] How to support friends with “fewer” burdens

Resources:
And Life Comes Back by Tricia Lott Williford
Every Moment Holy Volume II

If you enjoyed the show:

• Have you purchased our new book, The Other Side of Special? 
• Subscribe to our newsletter on the Take Heart Website
• Get our free resource on finding Gratitude, Peace, and Hope
• Review and like us on Apple Podcasts 
• Share us with others from wherever you listen to podcasts
• Follow us on Instagram @takeheartspecialmoms
• Find Amy at www.amyjbrown.com/  or on Instagram @amyjbrown_writer
• Find Carrie at www.carriemholt.com or on Instagram @carriemholt
• Find Sara at www.saraclime.com or on Instagram @saraclime

In this episode, Sara shares stories from her personal journey of raising a child with disabilities, and how she found a deeper faith through her times of struggle. Through sharing her own experiences, she teaches a framework listeners can use to not only acknowledge pain but also shape it into fulfilling God’s purposes in their lives. Pain is inevitable. So we invite you to learn how to transform difficult circumstances into positive outcomes. This is an inspiring conversation that will leave you feeling encouraged to keep pressing forward.

Episode 145: October 15, 2023
Key Moments:

[2:30] Connecting with God in times of grief and suffering
[4:00] From a broken and bitter mother to positive and hopeful
[6:46] How God's grace can transform suffering into purpose 
[7:42] 4 ways to know whether suffering is constructive or destructive 

Resources:
https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/suffering
https://www.dictionary.com/browse/suffering 

If you enjoyed the show:

• Have you purchased our new book, The Other Side of Special? 
• Subscribe to our newsletter on the Take Heart Website
• Get our free resource on finding Gratitude, Peace, and Hope
• Review and like us on Apple Podcasts 
• Share us with others from wherever you listen to podcasts
• Follow us on Instagram @takeheartspecialmoms
• Find Amy at www.amyjbrown.com/  or on Instagram @amyjbrown_writer
• Find Carrie at www.carriemholt.com or on Instagram @carriemholt

Find Sara at www.saraclime.com or on Instagram @saraclime

Carrie M. Holt dives into the complex emotions and challenges that come with being a special needs mom but even just a person experiencing suffering. Carrie draws parallels between running and suffering, the tension that arises from both experiences. Carrie shares her insights on how past suffering can strengthen our faith and prepare us for future sorrows. She gives some helpful mindset shifts by looking at it from God's perspective and offers strategies for dealing with suffering, including the practice of lament and finding purpose in pain. 

Ep. 144; October 10, 2023

Key Moments:
[1:40] The tension of suffering
[4:19] Muscle memory strengthens us; suffering prepares us.  
[6:41] Allow yourself to see suffering's purpose
[11:31] What suffering produces
[13:03] Suffering beyond special needs parents

Resources:
Scriptures mentioned: I Peter 4:12, II Corinthians 4:17, James 1:2-4
Blessings by Laura Story

If you enjoyed the show:

• Have you purchased our new book, The Other Side of Special? 
• Subscribe to our newsletter on the Take Heart Website
• Get our free resource on finding Gratitude, Peace, and Hope
• Review and like us on Apple Podcasts 
• Share us with others from wherever you listen to podcasts
• Follow us on Instagram @takeheartspecialmoms
• Find Amy at www.amyjbrown.com/  or on Instagram @amyjbrown_writer
• Find Carrie at www.carriemholt.com or on Instagram @carriemholt
• Find Sara at www.saraclime.com or on Instagram @saraclime

Eps. 143:  October 2, 2023

 God’s Faithfulness in the Midst of Daily Suffering

Summary: In this episode, Amy explores the complexities of faithfulness in the midst of suffering as a special needs parent. She shares her own experiences of feeling betrayed and angry at God as she faced challenging behaviors daily from several of her children. Amy discusses the disconnect between her expectations of what it means to be faithful and the reality of her lived experiences. Offering a shift in perspective, she reflects on a silent retreat and the importance of remembering ourselves as beloved by God, held in his hand. Amy encourages listeners to embrace the messiness and doubts of faithfulness and find solace in being God's beloved.

Key Moments:

[1:02] Is it possible to just trust and obey God? It’s not that simple

[3:17] Feeling mad, betrayed, low—God can handle it

[9:10] Deep life security and not task management

[11:09] Not servants but beloved family

Resources:
What it feels like to be the Nurturing Enemy 

The Unhiding of Elijah Campbell: Kelly Flanagan 

Mission Shaped Spirituality: Susan Hope

Eph: 3:14-19

If you enjoyed the show:

• Have you purchased our new book, The Other Side of Special? 
• Subscribe to our newsletter on the Take Heart Website
• Get our free resource on finding Gratitude, Peace, and Hope
• Review and like us on Apple Podcasts 
• Share us with others from wherever you listen to podcasts
• Follow us on Instagram @takeheartspecialmoms
• Find Amy at www.amyjbrown.com/  or on Instagram @amyjbrown_writer
• Find Carrie at www.carriemholt.com or on Instagram @carriemholt
• Find Sara at www.saraclime.com or on Instagram @saraclime

In this collaborative episode, all three hosts answer listeners’ questions. They discuss the importance of embracing the present moment and finding joy in the little things while navigating the journey of special needs parenting. They share personal experiences and reflections on how their own dreams and expectations have shifted over time. The episode highlights the need to grieve the loss of old dreams while also allowing space for new dreams to emerge. They talk about strategies for parenting the siblings of their special needs children and how to manage the emotional well-being of everyone in the household. Thanks for submitting your questions!

Eps. 142: Sept 26, 2023

Resources:

Ep. 136 Growing Slow with Jennifer Dukes Lee

Growing Slow: Jennifer Dukes Lee 

How to Find Strength and Compassion in Struggle with Aundi Kolbler

Adam Young

If you enjoyed the show:

• Have you purchased our new book, The Other Side of Special? 
• Subscribe to our newsletter on the Take Heart Website
• Get our free resource on finding Gratitude, Peace, and Hope
• Review and like us on Apple Podcasts 
• Share us with others from wherever you listen to podcasts
• Follow us on Instagram @takeheartspecialmoms
• Find Amy at www.amyjbrown.com/  or on Instagram @amyjbrown_writer
• Find Carrie at www.carriemholt.com or on Instagram @carriemholt
• Find Sara at www.saraclime.com or on Instagram @saraclime

Sara Clime talks about transitions in this week's episode. As a caregiver, transitions are something that is common, yet rarely easy. Join Sara as she gives some practical (and unapologetic) steps that she has implemented over the years to help reduce the overwhelm, decision fatigue, and general anxiety that comes with inevitable change. Getting practical through a transition (big or small) doesn't eliminate the emotions. However, getting practical establishes an element of control when the world around us seems to be in chaos. 

Ep.141; September 19, 2023

Key Moments:
[3:42]  Feeling the feels when navigating transitions
[6:16] Getting practical when in transition-overwhelm (5 steps)
[6:28] Step 1: "No." is a complete sentence
[6:46] Step 2: 3 pieces of paper, an app, and a matrix
[10:12] Step 3: Recruit
[10:42] Step 4: Calendar
[11:21] Step 5: Be adaptable

Resources:
https://asana.com/
Explanation of the Eisenhower &/or Covey Matrix

If you enjoyed the show:

• Have you purchased our new book, The Other Side of Special? 
• Subscribe to our newsletter on the Take Heart Website
• Get our free resource on finding Gratitude, Peace, and Hope
• Review and like us on Apple Podcasts 
• Share us with others from wherever you listen to podcasts
• Follow us on Instagram @takeheartspecialmoms
• Find Amy at www.amyjbrown.com/  or on Instagram @amyjbrown_writer
• Find Carrie at www.carriemholt.com or on Instagram @carriemholt
• Find Sara at www.saraclime.com or on Instagram @saraclime

Carrie Holt discusses how to spiritually and practically navigate hospital stays with our children. Drawing from her own experiences, Carrie talks about the importance of recognizing the armor we put on in these situations, such as control, withdrawal, and cynicism, and how they can hinder our ability to trust in God. She encourages listeners to invite God into these spaces and remember that He is always with us, even during hospital stays. Carrie also offers practical advice for dealing with unplanned hospital stays and emphasizes the importance of grieving the losses that come with these experiences. She encourages listeners to know their limits, rely on scripture and prayer, and seek support from therapists and counselors during hospital stays. 

Ep.140; September 12, 2023

Key Moments:
[1:16] Spina Bifida and my coping mechanism
[5:00] Looking for Jesus in the moment
[7:43] Letting grief come
[9:29] Practical hospital survival tips
[13:43] CaringBridge: How Carrie uses it

Resources:
Ep. 101: Identity Theft (References Breath Prayers)
CaringBridge
Footprints Poem

If you enjoyed the show:

• Have you purchased our new book, The Other Side of Special? 
• Subscribe to our newsletter on the Take Heart Website
• Get our free resource on finding Gratitude, Peace, and Hope
• Review and like us on Apple Podcasts 
• Share us with others from wherever you listen to podcasts
• Follow us on Instagram @takeheartspecialmoms
• Find Amy at www.amyjbrown.com/  or on Instagram @amyjbrown_writer
• Find Carrie at www.carriemholt.com or on Instagram @carriemholt
• Find Sara at www.saraclime.com or on Instagram @saraclime

In this first episode of season 4, Amy Brown kicks it off with a topic close to her heart: resourcing yourself as a caregiver. Amy shares her personal journey of learning to listen to her own life and prioritize self-care. Drawing from her experiences and the insights of women like Jennifer Dukes Lee and Taylor Elise Morrison, Amy explores the importance of asking ourselves questions like, “How am I contributing to my own chaos? Where am I feeling disconnected? Where do I need rest or space?” She suggests that finding moments of rest and joy, and letting go of the constant hustle and overwhelm can provide the resources you need to press on. Discover practical ways to resource yourself and create space for connection in your life as a caregiver. 

Ep. 139: August 8, 2023

Key Moments:

[1:46]The starting point for most people's self care isn't a purchase. 

[5:45] Situational strength (white-knuckling life) masks anxiety

[6:40] Are “The Overs” taking over?

[10:23] Asking ourselves questions is the perfect starting place

Resources:
Strong Like Water; Aundi Kolber

Sabbath: Wayne Muller 

Peace is a Practice: Morgan Harper Nichols 

Let Your Life Speak: Parker Palmer 

The Next Right Thing Podcast: Why Self Care isn’t Selfish 

If you enjoyed the show:

• Have you purchased our new book, The Other Side of Special? 
• Subscribe to our newsletter on the Take Heart Website
• Get our free resource on finding Gratitude, Peace, and Hope
• Review and like us on Apple Podcasts 
• Share us with others from wherever you listen to podcasts
• Follow us on Instagram @takeheartspecialmoms
• Find Amy at www.amyjbrown.com/  or on Instagram @amyjbrown_writer
• Find Carrie at www.carriemholt.com or on Instagram @carriemholt
• Find Sara at www.saraclime.com or on Instagram @saraclime