Mothers of Misfits: Recent Episodes

Emily Melious

Emily Melious believes that every child is perfectly capable, but sadly, the world doesn't always see it that way. As an Accredited Youth Specialist, Emily works with families to discover and harness their kids' superpowers. Join her as she leads weekly conversations about how to advocate for your child in a one-size-fits-all world.

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The M.O.M. Team celebrates reaching 100 episodes of the Mothers of Misfits podcast and reminisces about their journey. You don't want to miss this final send off from Emily!

► Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/a1JH_04XSbI

► Learn more about this episode: https://www.mothersofmisfits.com/blog/show-finale-celebrating-100-episodes-emily-melious-cameron-suorsa-olivia-whiteman

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Empathy Consultant, Liesel Mindrebo Mertes, talks candidly about the process of grieving the death of a child. She also shares how we - as colleagues, friends, family members, and neighbors - can support those in our community who are suffering loss.

► Learn more about this episode:

https://www.mothersofmisfits.com/blog/100-dealing-with-the-loss-of-a-child-liesel-mindrebo-mertes

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https://youtu.be/PNSXcxgJ0nc

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Debi Lewis spent years trying to get an accurate diagnosis for her daughter - something other than "failure to thrive." She shares the challenges of navigating a broken medical system and the journey her family went through to finally get answers.

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https://www.mothersofmisfits.com/blog/99-overcoming-a-failure-to-thrive-diagnosis-debi-lewis

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https://youtu.be/jvG_hL2DPTo

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Emily and Megan talk about how to stop the power struggles and explosions in our homes and, instead, positively channel the energy of our strong-willed and highly sensitive kids.

► Learn more about this episode:

https://www.mothersofmisfits.com/blog/98-parenting-a-strong-willed-child-megan-barella

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https://youtu.be/agva5X6_Z4g

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Jill Laudati is the co-author of Itchy Brain and a Speech Language Pathologist. She shares the life lessons she's gained by supporting her husband and two boys, all of whom have ADHD.

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https://www.mothersofmisfits.com/blog/97-a-positive-outlook-on-adhd-jill-laudati

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https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCGwia7zwl5U5ZKOJId0tsSw?sub_confirmation=1

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Certified Holistic Nutritional Consultant™, Bethany Gettis, talks about common food allergies and how to find out if your child has one.

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https://www.mothersofmisfits.com/blog/96-dealing-with-food-allergies-bethany-gettis

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Luke Gilligan was diagnosed with Bipolar 1 disorder in his first year of college. He candidly talks about approaching his parents for help, finding the right medication, and managing his diagnosis on a daily basis.

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https://www.mothersofmisfits.com/blog/95-thriving-as-a-bipolar-college-student-luke-gilligan

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Master IEP Coach, Shelley Kenow, tells us what to expect in the IEP process and how to successfully advocate for our child's unique needs in school.

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https://www.mothersofmisfits.com/blog/94-mastering-the-iep-process-shelley-kenow

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Having no biological children of her own, Debbie Ausburn has "collected" 7 children and 10 grandchildren. She speaks to the challenges and rewards of raising other people's kids.

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https://www.mothersofmisfits.com/blog/93-raising-other-people-s-children-debbie-ausburn

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Susan Landers, M.D. shares her personal story of helping her daughter overcome anorexia. Listen in as Susan and Emily talk through the risk factors, warning signs, and treatments for eating disorders.

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https://www.mothersofmisfits.com/blog/92-parenting-a-child-with-an-eating-disorder-susan-landers-m-d

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Despite the smiling faces, a family photography session is usually a chaotic, stressful scene. The pressure to capture the "perfect shot" is amplified when your child has special needs. Professional Photographer, Don Orkoskey, shares how to make a family photograph session a positive experience for everyone.

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https://www.mothersofmisfits.com/blog/91-how-to-make-family-photos-a-positive-experience-don-orkoskey

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Kathryn Garforth, Ph. D. is an Educational Consultant specializing in Learning Disabilities, ADHD, Autism and other Low Incidence Special Needs. Diagnosed with dyslexia, dysgraphia, & dyscalculia in grade school, her journey through the educational system was not an easy one. Kathryn shares practical advice for obtaining an accurate diagnosis for kids with learning disabilities and finding the support they need.

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https://www.mothersofmisfits.com/blog/90-parenting-a-child-with-dyslexia-dysgraphia-dyscalculia-kathryn-garforth-ph-d

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Luke Gilligan is a sophomore Entrepreneurship major at Grove City College. He candidly shares his experiences of growing up with ADHD and managing his diagnosis - including medication - in college. 

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https://www.mothersofmisfits.com/blog/89-succeeding-in-college-with-adhd-luke-gilligan

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Dr. Alisa Minkin is a pediatrician and mother to six adult children, one of whom has a rare diagnosis. She shares her journey of getting answers for her daughter, finding support from other parents along the way, and using her life experiences to become a better pediatrician. 

► Learn more about this episode:

https://www.mothersofmisfits.com/blog/88-a-pediatrician-s-perspective-on-advocating-for-misfits-dr-alisa-minkin-md

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With a Masters in Education Leadership, Christina Forgeron has been an educator on three continents across grades 2-9 over the last 25 years. Christina and Emily talk about how to make homework time more effective (and with less tears!). 

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https://www.mothersofmisfits.com/blog/87-how-to-make-homework-time-work-for-everyone-christina-forgeron

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Gladys Simen is a Life Coach for working moms. Listen in as she and Emily discuss simple strategies for busy, maxed-out mothers to rest and recharge. 

► Learn more about this episode: https://www.mothersofmisfits.com/blog/86-how-to-recharge-our-mom-batteries-gladys-simen

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Matt Oxenreiter is a Certified Financial Planner and the founder of Midway Financial. He has 4 adult children, one of whom has Down Syndrome. Matt and Emily discuss practical strategies that can be used to provide financial security for all children, and particularly those with special needs.

► Learn more about this episode: https://www.mothersofmisfits.com/blog/85-financial-planning-for-special-needs-matt-oxenreiter

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Danielle Boris has a bachelor's degree in tech, an MBA in entrepreneurship, and is the founder and CEO of a SaaS company. She talks about how parents can encourage girls and minorities to go wherever their dreams take them, including the tech industry.

► Learn more about this episode: https://www.mothersofmisfits.com/blog/84-girls-in-tech-danielle-boris

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Sivan Hong authors and illustrates the children’s book series, The Super Fun Day Books. These inspiring books focus on neurodiverse children, who overcome their challenges with perseverance and bravery. Listen in as Sivan and Emily talk about the power of books to normalize neurodiversity.

Learn more about this episode on our website: www.mothersofmisfits.com/blog/83-normalizing-neurodiversity-sivan-hong

If you haven't already, sign up for our Episode Insider's newsletter before next week's episode to be entered to win a FREE signed paperback copy of Sivan's book, George J. and the Miserable Monday!

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Shaun's entire career is inspired by his own misfit story. His mom always encouraged him to embrace his uniqueness. Now, as a Youth Performance Development Professional and Entrepreneur, he helps misfit youth do the same. 

Learn more about this episode on our website: www.mothersofmisfits.com, including full details about how you can participate in our SOCIAL MEDIA GIVEAWAY* of Shaun's Success Stacks!

*The giveaway will close at 11:59 on Friday, Nov. 26th and we'll announce the winner on our social media platforms by Monday, Nov. 29th. No purchase necessary. Giveaway is in no way endorsed by Facebook, Instagram, or LinkedIn. Must be 18 years old or older to enter. Winners must reside in the United States or they will receive a digital copy of the Success Stacks.

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Gelly Asovski is a Child and family therapist, EMDR Consultant, and Registered Play Therapy Supervisor who specializes in play therapy. She shares why play is the answer to many of the problems in our homes. Emily and Gelly also talk through simple strategies for infusing play into our everyday lives. 

Learn more about this episode on our website: www.mothersofmisfits.com, including how you can download your free copy of The Five Ways You Can Keep Your Kids Entertained Without Tech.

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Marty Wolner, a Healthy Anger Coach, shares practical strategies for both parents and kids to channel their anger in healthy - rather than destructive - ways. 

Learn more about this episode on our BRAND NEW website: www.mothersofmisfits.com

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Sara-Louise Ackrill, founder of Wired Differently, talks about the connection between executive functioning and self-esteem. She also shares personal stories of managing autism and Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria (RSD).

Learn more about this episode on our BRAND NEW website: www.mothersofmisfits.com

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Ever wonder what Emily was like as a kid? This is your opportunity to find out! Listen in as Emily's mom, Darla Main, tells all - including some embarrassing stories!

Learn more about this episode on our BRAND NEW website: www.mothersofmisfits.com

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Jenny Landgren shares her painful and difficult journey of leaving a toxic marriage with three young children. Listen in as she talks through her process of forgiving and rediscovering herself. 

Learn more about this episode on our BRAND NEW website: www.mothersofmisfits.com

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Katie Yakich's motto is: "Don't take life too seriously." In 2021, she and her husband decided to homeschool their two boys. In true Katie fashion, they are homeschooling in their own way, through cross-country travel and in-person learning experiences. 

Learn more about this episode on our BRAND NEW website: www.mothersofmisfits.com

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Jenny Landgren has faced many challenges as a mother, including navigating an abusive marriage while raising her three, young kids. Jenny and Emily talk about turning hardship into growth and, most importantly, learning to let go. 

Learn more about this episode on our BRAND NEW website: www.mothersofmisfits.com

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After working in schools for over 20 years in mental health and resilience, Connie talks about the importance of bringing the hurting closer, rather than pushing them away.

Learn more about this episode on our BRAND NEW website: www.mothersofmisfits.com

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Andre Brisson was diagnosed with ADHD, Aspergers, and Giftedness late in life. He now helps high-achieving ADHD individuals understand and celebrate their true self.

Andre is the host a new podcast, The Impulsive Thinker, where he is beginning to interview high achieving ADHD entrepreneurs to help people convert their ADHD symptoms into their strengths.

Learn more about this episode on our BRAND NEW website: www.mothersofmisfits.com

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Brandon Fong is an entrepreneur, author, podcast host, and marketing nerd who always felt like a misfit. He shares how he capitalized on his uniqueness to be successful in life. 

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Mona Delahooke, PhD is a licensed clinical psychologist with more than 30 years of experience caring for children and their families. Mona and Emily talk about reclaiming the term "misfit" and redefining what it means to be "typical."

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Andy and Emily share practical ways to set our kids up for success in school and life by developing a growth mindset.

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Ashley Farrar was diagnosed with ADHD soon after her daughter was diagnosed with autism. After receiving conflicting advice from doctors, Ashley talks about her decision to trust her instincts as a parent and tune into her family's unique needs.

Learn more about this episode on our website: www.mothersofmisfits.com

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Dayna Abraham was in shock as she sat across from the school principal and was told, "You need to find out what's wrong with your son." Soon after, Dayna discovered that her son has Sensory Processing Disorder. Listen in as Dayna shares simple strategies for empowering our kids to express their needs.

Learn more about this episode on our website: www.mothersofmisfits.com

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Jaime knew something was wrong with her health during her pregnancy, but couldn't figure out what. After receiving a diagnosis of celiacs disease, she turned to food as medicine. Listen in as Jaime and Emily discuss simple strategies to foster a nutritious life for the whole family.

Learn more about this episode on our website: www.mothersofmisfits.com

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Leeza Woodbury has been through five rounds of IEP meetings for her 5-year-old son, and has many more to come. She shares her tips, tricks, and resources for managing the process successfully.

Learn more about this episode on our website: www.mothersofmisfits.com

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When Jason's teenage son started complaining about pain and muscle weakness, he figured it was simply "growing pains." When Logan's symptoms worsened, however, they knew something much more serious was going on. Listen as Jason and Emily talk about managing the rare condition of Juvenile Myositis. 

Learn more about this episode on our website: www.mothersofmisfits.com

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Natalie's joy quickly turned to panic when she looked down at her newborn baby and realized that her hand was not fully formed. Now, several years and several surgeries later, Natalie talks about the incredible process of giving Brielle function in her left hand. 

Learn more about this episode on our website: www.mothersofmisfits.com

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As a foster care parent, Hannah debunks the common myths about foster care. You may be surprised what's true and what's not!

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Growing up, Alex Winstanley watched his grandmother struggle with dementia. Inspired to help other kids deal with a family member's long-term illness, he wrote two children's books entitled, "My grandmother has dementia" and "My uncle has depression." Alex and Emily talk about how to support our kids - and ourselves - through these difficult experiences.

Learn more about this episode on our website: www.mothersofmisfits.com

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As the parent of a misfit, you're on the "frontlines" of advocating for your child. That can mean a lot of tough conversations. Lindsay Lapaquette, a mom to two kids with disabilities, shares how to pick our battles wisely and let go of the rest. 

Learn more about this episode on our website: www.mothersofmisfits.com

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As a military wife, Lauren found herself in Japan, overwhelmed and alone with a toddler and an infant. She speaks to the challenges of parenting in isolation and gives strategies for re-creating "the village."

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Delia Perry, host of the Girls 4 Greatness Podcast, shares 5 simple strategies to ward off the confidence crisis that often plagues teenage girls. 

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Certified Sleep Consultant, Melissa Doman, shares easy-to-implement and effective sleep training strategies that give everyone in your household a good night's rest. 

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Audrey and her husband knew something was different about their son moments after his birth. But it took 10 years to get an accurate diagnosis. Join Audrey and Emily as they speak openly about the challenges of raising a child with a rare genetic condition.

Learn more about this episode on our website: www.mothersofmisfits.com

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Casey O'Roarty is a an author, speaker, and parenting coach. She speaks candidly about parenting through the teenage years, helping her daughter manage severe anxiety, and coping with her husband's cancer diagnosis. 

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Kelly Bron Johnson is an Autistic and Hard of Hearing self-advocate, speaker, author, and founder of Completely Inclusive and the Autistic Entrepreneurs Network. She and Emily hold nothing back as they talk about miscarriages, adoption, autism, inclusion, mental health, and schooling.

Learn more about this episode on our website: www.mothersofmisfits.com

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Lola Dada-Olley's adult brother and two kids are on the autism spectrum. Lola shares how she went through parentification as a child. She draws on those difficult experiences as the "blueprint" for the mom she is today. Despite all of life's challenges, Lola faces every day with joy and resilience.

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Andrew Komarow is a Certified Neurodiversity Professional and Financial Planner to those who think differently. Diagnosed with autism later in life, he shares how he's succeeded by embracing his differences.

Learn more about this episode on our website: www.mothersofmisfits.com

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Executive Director of the Washington Health System Foundation, Sara Schumacher, shares her personal experience with receiving the Covid vaccine, candid thoughts on vaccinating our kids, and predictions for our return to "normalcy."

Learn more about this episode on our website: www.mothersofmisfits.com

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Alexis Peterson is a Stanford- and Harvard-educated private tutor with over 19 years of professional tutoring experience. She scored a perfect 1600 on the SAT as a junior in high school and has amassed an extensive resume of perfect and 99th-percentile test scores since. Alexis shares tips and tricks to help your kids actually ENJOY learning and test prep: a goal that's more achievable than one might think!

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Sejal Thakkar dubs herself "Chief Civility Officer" and "Legal Training Ninja.” In her 17 years as an employment law attorney, Sejal encountered plenty of incivility in the workplace. She shares simple, approachable strategies to foster civility in our kids and set them up for success in life.

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Richard Capriola has been an addictions and mental health counselor for over two decades. He shares the warning signs, treatment approaches, and avoidance strategies for adolescent substance abuse.

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Mike Giffin, founder of Ensphere College Planning Services, shares the 5 steps to successfully guide your family through the college planning process. He and Emily also talk through the common pitfalls of college planning and how to avoid them.

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Helen Wills' daughter was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes at the age of 9. Helen shares the realities of living with Type 1 Diabetes, the added worries of having a child with the condition, and the misunderstandings people place on those who have to manage it. 

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Everything changed for Mary Ann and her family on December 20, 2017. She got a call that no mom wants to receive - her daughter collapsed on the playground. Mary Ann later found out that her daughter, Claire, has transverse myelitis. Listen in as Mary Ann shares the difficult process of coping with such a serious diagnosis and helping her young daughter manage paralysis.

Learn more about this episode on our website: www.mothersofmisfits.com

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Veronica Slater faced the horrible tragedy of losing her husband while a young mother. She shares why grief doesn't neatly fit into "five stages." Veronica and Emily also offer strategies for helping you and your kids to grieve in a healthy way.

Learn more about this episode on our website: www.mothersofmisfits.com

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Some IEPs just don't translate well to virtual schooling. Patty Maxwell, a licensed behavioral specialist, provides strategies for families to effectively engage the school and get to a solution that works for everybody. 

Learn more about this episode on our website: www.mothersofmisfits.com

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Corey Hollemeyer is an HR & Inclusion Consultant and mother of two, beautiful girls. Her oldest is autistic and her youngest is likely autistic as well. Corey shares how everyone benefits when there is neurodiversity in our schools and workplaces.

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Blain Wease felt like a misfit from the very beginning of his life. He's a natural risk taker who didn't fit in with his family, at school, or a "traditional" job. In adulthood, he found the freedom to be himself and is now thriving as a father, husband, and entrepreneur. 

Learn more about this episode on our website: www.mothersofmisfits.com

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Michael Weingarth founded the first neuro-psychological tutoring company. He and Emily discuss why the quest for measurable outcomes has steered us away from fostering students' true potential.

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Jennifer Beitz admits that she wasn't always a rockstar parent, especially in the early years. However, through self reflection and dealing with her limiting beliefs, she grew into a confident mother. Listen as Jennifer shares how to do the necessary "inner work" to thrive as a parent.

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Nathan was born with Cerebral Palsy and turned his adversity into his advantage. He shares with Emily how negative labels often lead to loneliness. He wants everyone to know that labels DON'T define us. And when we have no labels, we have no limits.

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Hunter Hansen was diagnosed with autism at age 16. Today, he is a full-time data visualization professional, husband, and father. He shares his personal journey of initially struggling with the label to now openly advocating for the autistic community.

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Oleg Lougheed has overcome the odds. He was born into an abusive household and adopted into an American family at the age of 12. It took him 3 years to learn English and fully acclimate to his new country. Oleg shares his inspiring story of perseverance and positivity.

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Judy Arnall, BA, CCFE, DTM is a certified brain and child development specialist and a bestselling author. She shares how everyone can use non-punitive parenting to raise responsible children with lasting family relationships.

Learn more about this episode on our website: www.mothersofmisfits.com

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Dr. Elyssa is a chiropractor and host of the Balancing Holistic Mommas podcast. She's on a mission to help educate families about all things health and wellness. Elyssa and Emily talk through 5 easy-to-implement strategies to stay healthy while schooling and working from home.

Learn more about this episode on our website: www.mothersofmisfits.com

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Getting a job was already hard enough, then a global pandemic hit. Austin Belcak, founder of CultivatedCulture.com, helps people land jobs they love without traditional experience and without applying online. He and Emily talk through a proven, game-changing process for getting hired. 

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Zak Weinstein was diagnosed with Focal Dystonia at the age of 8, a condition that disrupts the communication between his brain and arms. Rather than focusing on his DISability, he celebrates his Abilities, particularly as an avid tennis player. 

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Tori Mikos is a SAHM and the author of the Politics of Parenting blog. She was blown away when her open letter about the struggles of virtual learning went viral, even garnering the attention of Good Morning America.

Learn more about this episode on our website: www.mothersofmisfits.com

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A single mom of two boys, Beth Caldwell talks candidly about the ups and downs of motherhood. While there were many times she felt like a failure, she now sees those experiences as blessings in disguise.

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COO of Dynamynd, Nicole Loucks, shares the groundbreaking research showing the strong link between self-efficacy and mental wellness. More specifically, kids who believe they have valuable talents to contribute are at lower risk for mental health struggles. Given its importance, Nicole and Emily talk through ways to increase the self-efficacy in our kids. 

Learn more about this episode on our website: www.mothersofmisfits.com

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Alyssa Dver is Founder & CEO of the American Confidence Institute, author of 7 bestselling books, a TEDx and Boston Best Speaker, and a podcast co-host. Listen in as Alyssa shares the incredible brain science behind confidence. She and Emily also discuss helpful tips for raising confident kids.

Learn more about this episode on our website: www.mothersofmisfits.com

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Imagine going through primary and secondary school without the ability to speak. That is exactly what Jordyn Zimmerman overcame. Diagnosed with autism at an early age, Jordyn is non-speaking. She shares her inspiring story along with her passion for special education reform.

Learn more about this episode on our website: www.mothersofmisfits.com

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Claire Osborne decided to homeschool her kids - now 16 and 13 years old - from the start of their education, and she never looked back. Claire shares how her family made homeschooling a lifestyle and, most importantly, customized the experience to each child. You'll also learn the truth about homeschooling as Claire and Emily debunk common myths. 

Learn more about this episode on our website: www.mothersofmisfits.com

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Zach Mercurio is an expert on the topic of mattering. He and Emily discuss why it's vital for our kids to feel they matter. Zach also shares the 3-step formula for cultivating a sense of mattering in others. 

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Kathy Kolbe is is an acclaimed theorist, bestselling author, and pioneer in her field. She was the first to prove the existence of the conative mental faculty. Listen in as Emily and Kathy offer advice on helping children thrive by unleashing their instinctual strengths.

SPECIAL OFFER: The first 20 people who sign up for the BrainyAct assessment on mothersofmisfits.com will receive a brief, recorded interpretation of their child’s strengths directly from Kathy Kolbe!

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Kristin Weaver is a German teacher in the public school system and a mom of four. With the upcoming school year being far from normal, Kristin and Emily talk frankly about the grief and overwhelm parents feel right now. 

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Kaelon Egan founded, grew, and sold his first company all before his 35th birthday. Kaelon speaks openly about feeling like a misfit in school, but finding his "sweet spot" in entrepreneurship.

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After years of struggling with infertility, Erin and Andrew Hull decided to pursue adoption. Listen as Erin talks with Emily about the unexpected and incredible ways her two children entered her life.

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Christine Furman's motto is support, inspire, educate. She began her career as an elementary special education teacher and spent 10 years in the public school system. In 2017, she founded Momspiration412 with a vision to support fellow moms. Christine and Emily discuss how to advocate for kids who may feel like a "misfit." More specifically, Christine and Emily share how to "right size" curriculum to kids of all ages and abilities.

Visit her website to find EduPlay℠ Activity Kits that provide your kid with fun, interactive, and educational activities, or visit join the Momspiration412 Worldwide facebook group to learn more!

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Christina Rice suffered from mental and health disorders since the age of 3. Sadly, for most of her life, she didn't feel she could share her true thoughts and emotions - even with her parents. Now a healthy and successful business owner, Christina talks about how to create a safe space for others, particularly our kids. 

Learn more at ChristinaRiceWellness.com or listen to her podcast Wellness Realness!

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Traditional childcare went out the window when #Covid19 hit. Priya Amin and Marni Pastor talk with Emily about the innovative ways their company, Flexable, is supporting working parents in this unprecedented time. 

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Do behavior issues lead to constant battles in your household? Ty Krueger, co-founder of the Behavior Change Collective, shares how to get the behavior you want in your kids without a shouting match.

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Chaya Gutnick built a business to help companies control chaos. She applies her same, proven approaches to reduce chaos in her personal life. Listen in to hear Chaya and Emily share practical strategies for restoring peace and order in your household.

Learn more about her business Chaos Control, or join her Facebook Group!

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Professor Tim Sweet is the Chair of the Entrepreneurship Department of Grove City College. He talks with Emily about why entrepreneurs should pursue a college degree, even though they may not feel "cut out" for higher ed. Tim also shares why it's important for everyone to have an entrepreneurial spirit - now more than ever.

Learn more about Entrepreneurship at Grove City College or reach out directly to Tim via email!

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As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Yael Walfish works with kids who are considered to be "lost causes." She transforms their behavior with the power of positivity. Listen to learn Yael's simple, yet powerful 3-part process for fostering the greatness within our kids.

Learn more and view her course at Center for Greatness

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Michael Davis felt like an outcast many times in his life. Rather than letting it get him down, Emily and Michael talk about how he used those difficult experiences to be a source of encouragement and positivity to others.

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With all the new demands of managing a household during #Covid19, many parents are feeling frazzled. But even before the "new normal," a lot of parents expected themselves to be all things to all people. Ashley Avinashi shares the dangers of living a distracted life and how to be fully present with our kids. 

Visit Raising Humanity or join their "village" at the Rising Together facebook group!

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For Dr. Crystal Morrison, the term "misfit" applies in a lot of ways. In this episode, Emily and Crystal focus on the story of her autistic son. Fueled by her personal experiences, Crystal created a technology platform to meet her son's unique medical needs...and that of kids around the world!

Learn more about Meerkat Village

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Gail Swift's son experiences the world in a very physical way. Drawing on her personal experiences, she and Emily talk about practical ways to meet the needs of a tactile child. 

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Daniel Botero talks openly about his entrepreneurial journey and many "misfit" adventures. Despite not always fitting into the classroom, he is now on a mission to help students master their transition from college to career. 

Learn more about Daniel's Podcast + Academy: MasteringCollegeToCareer.com

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Karen Passieu's world completely changed when her daughter suddenly couldn't leave the house. Listen in as Karen bravely shares how she supports her daughter, Bella, in dealing with a debilitating panic disorder.

Karen's Podcast: C50 Hope

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Sterling Louks, VP of Dynamynd, talks with Emily about the differing needs of children, particularly as to how they learn. When it comes to schooling, a one-size-fits-all approach does not work. Emily and Sterling provide practical strategies for making homeschooling (and #quarantinelife in general) a stress-free and positive experience for all.

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Emily talks with a colleague, Joop Stroes, about parenting kids with ADD/ADHD. Joop lends and interesting - and surprising - perspective on the topic.

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Shawn Mundis shares the challenges and joys of parenting his son, Michael, who has Down Syndrome. Michael is certainly no ordinary kid, but Shawn wouldn't have it any other way!

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Amanda Yarger speaks about her "misfit" educational and career track, particularly her experiences as a homeschooler. She credits the confidence she developed early on to chart her own course in life.

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Alex Kuhn shares how you can foster the entrepreneurial strengths of your child, and his personal story of quitting his "normal" job to become an international business coach.

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A self-described disruptor, Brandon McCall discusses how the current school system underserves "outlier" students, and how this led him to found Cornerstone Prep to create an educational experience that serves ALL kids. He shares his criticisms of the current model as well as his big vision for educating tomorrow's workforce. 

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Lindi McCaffrey shares practical parenting strategies for kids who are innovative and tactile by nature. She is the mom to Flynn and Avalene, two amazing children who don't always fit "the mold" - and we love that about them! Lindi is also on the Launch Consulting team, serving as a Student Advocate.

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Cameron Suorsa shares what it is like to be a misfit in college. Studying Entrepreneurship at Grove City College, he also works with Emily as an intern at Launch Consulting. True to his entrepreneurial nature, Cameron started an E-Commerce business during his freshman year, in which he sells clothing on Amazon.

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Join Emily Melious as she introduces the purpose of the Mothers of Misfits podcast. She will go over her background, who this podcast is for, and what you can expect to hear in our future episodes!

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