In today’s episode, we explore what gratitude really looks like in the world of special needs parenting — and why it often shows up in the smallest, most unexpected places. Gratitude in our world isn’t about picture-perfect moments or big milestones. It’s about tiny victories, surprising lessons, quiet support, and the moments of peace that help us breathe again.

We walk through the micro-moments that make a big emotional impact, from the tiniest wins to the quiet strength we develop as parents. We talk about what our children teach us, why siblings deserve so much recognition, and how a simple shift in perspective can make even the hardest days feel a little softer.

You’ll leave this episode feeling seen, supported, and reminded that gratitude isn’t about pretending everything is okay — it’s about noticing the glimmers that help you keep going.

Connect with me:

If this episode spoke to your heart, share it with another parent who might need a reminder that they’re not alone.

You can connect with Erica on Instagram @parentingepilepsy_specialneeds and be part of a community that understands the ups and downs of the special needs & epilepsy parenting journey.

If you feel mentally exhausted before the day even begins, you’re not alone. In this episode, Erica Hauser will dive deep into the mental load that special-needs moms carry every day — the invisible, nonstop planning, anticipating, and advocating that few people ever see. We’ll talk about why this hidden workload is so heavy, how it shows up in your daily life, and simple ways to ease the pressure without adding more to your plate.

This is your reminder that the work you do — even the unseen parts — is extraordinary.

In this episode, we discuss:

• The emotional and mental labor behind therapies, appointments, and routines

• What makes the mental load “invisible” to others

• How constant thinking and planning leads to burnout

• Practical ways to lighten the load at home

• Why you deserve recognition, rest, and compassion

You’ll walk away feeling:

Seen, validated, supported, and reminded that you are not failing — you are carrying more than most people will ever understand.

Connect with me:

If this episode spoke to your heart, share it with another parent who might need a reminder that they’re not alone.

You can connect with Erica on Instagram @parentingepilepsy_specialneeds and be part of a community that understands the ups and downs of the special needs & epilepsy parenting journey.

Have you ever sat in an exam room and suddenly that wave hits you —“This doctor is not the right match for my child.” 

This has happened to Erica Hauser a few times and in today’s episode she will talk about how to navigate that moment when you realize that the current provider is not a fit for your child. 

Sometimes the most powerful thing you can do is pause, step away, and save your emotional bandwidth for a provider who meets your child’s complex needs, actually listens and respects your lived experience as the parent.

Leaving doesn’t mean you don’t care.  It means you care enough to wait for the right care.

Connect with me:

If this episode spoke to your heart, share it with another parent who might need a reminder that they’re not alone.

You can connect with Erica on Instagram @parentingepilepsy_specialneeds and be part of a community that understands the ups and downs of the special needs & epilepsy parenting journey.

The holidays can be magical — but also overwhelming, especially when your child thrives on structure and predictability. In this heartfelt episode, Erica opens up about how to plan for the holiday season with intention, grace, and compassion — keeping your child’s unique needs and your own peace in mind.

You’ll hear practical tips for managing sensory overload, setting boundaries with family, choosing events that work for your child, and creating simple, inclusive traditions that bring connection instead of chaos.

Because your holidays don’t have to look like everyone else’s to be meaningful — they just have to feel right for you.

Parent resources:

TSA Cares : (855) 787-2227

https://www.tsa.gov/travel/tsa-cares

Connect with me:

If this episode spoke to your heart, share it with another parent who might need a reminder that they’re not alone.

You can connect with Erica on Instagram @parentingepilepsy_specialneeds and be part of a community that understands the ups and downs of the special needs & epilepsy parenting journey.

This episode is a really personal one — because I’m sharing how my child’s diagnosis and the first few years of our journey of having a child with epilepsy and special needs have made me stronger in ways I never imagined. I see life differently…our family is different, but in a positive way. If you are in that early season of your journey then you will not want to miss this episode as Erica reflects how it made her a stronger person. 

Wherever you are, I hope my story reminds you that even in the hardest moments, strength can grow in the most unexpected ways.

Connect with me:

If this episode spoke to your heart, share it with another parent who might need a reminder that they’re not alone.

You can connect with Erica on Instagram @parentingepilepsy_specialneeds and be part of a community that understands the ups and downs of the special needs & epilepsy parenting journey.

In this heartfelt episode, Erica opens up about what it really means to care for yourself while raising a child with special needs. From dealing with burnout and guilt to finding tiny moments of peace in a demanding day, she reminds parents that self-care isn’t selfish — it’s essential.

Connect with me:

If this episode spoke to your heart, share it with another parent who might need a reminder that they matter too.

You can connect with Erica on Instagram @parentingepilepsy_specialneeds and be part of a community that understands the ups and downs of the special needs & epilepsy parenting journey.

Do you ever feel like no one understands what you’re going through, the struggles you encounter or the decisions that you need to make for your child as a parent of a child with epilepsy and special needs? While these are all real and very valid feelings, I am going to share with you the moment that I realized that it’s not necessary for the world to fully understand what it’s like to walk in our shoes in order to support you…. because at the end of the day, we are all dealing with something.

Connect with me:

If this episode spoke to your heart, share it with another parent who might need a reminder that they’re not alone.

You can connect with Erica on Instagram @parentingepilepsy_specialneeds and be part of a community that understands the ups and downs of the special needs & epilepsy parenting journey.

Have you ever said to yourself, “am I doing enough for my child?” It’s a very common question and thought that parents and caregivers of children with epilepsy and special needs ask on a regular basis. If you’re asking this question, Erica Hauser will give you the answers that you absolutely need to hear. 

Connect with me:

If this episode spoke to your heart, share it with another parent who might need a reminder that they’re not alone.

You can connect with Erica on Instagram @parentingepilepsy_specialneeds and be part of a community that understands the ups and downs of the special needs & epilepsy parenting journey.

In this first episode Erica Hauser introduces the parenting epilepsy podcast! She goes over the purpose of the podcast and gives an introduction to how her family's epilepsy journey began. 

Connect with me:

If this episode spoke to your heart, share it with another parent who might need a reminder that they’re not alone.

You can connect with Erica on Instagram @parentingepilepsy_specialneeds and be part of a community that understands the ups and downs of the special needs & epilepsy parenting journey.