Ashleigh Johnston - Podcast Details

Shows

Rainbow Skies for Teachers83. Becoming a Classroom Champion with Aaron JohnstonIn this energising episode, we sit down with classroom champion and education leader Aaron Johnston to explore what it really takes to thrive as a teacher, especially when navigating the challenges of composite classes and high expectations.Aaron brings his signature practical wisdom and heartfelt encouragement as we chat about his career in teaching and what he has learned along the way.Together, we unpack the misconceptions around teaching multi-age classes, realistic strategies for differentiation that won’t double your workload, and Aaron’s brilliant ideas to boost student engagement through voice and choice.2025-05-1842 min

CPhT Connect The Podcast with Mike Johnston, CPhT-AdvEpisode 82 - Intentional Advancement - featuring Ashleigh Smith, CPhTWelcome to this insightful episode of CPhT Connect, the Podcast for Pharmacy Technicians! Join our host, Mike Johnston, as he sits down with Ashleigh Smith, Director of Continuing Education at NPTA, for a candid conversation about her career journey and the importance of self-initiative in professional growth. In this episode, Ashleigh shares the memorable story of her interview with Mike, where unconventional questions revealed her personality and passion for project management. She reflects on the moment that impressed Mike the most—her pursuit of Google's free project management certificate—a testament to her resourcefulness and initiative in cont...2024-09-1749 min

The Wellness DiariesThe Most Effective Strategies for Overcoming Emotional Eating w/ Jeb Stuart JohnstonIn this episode of the Wellness Diaries podcast, I talk with health and wellness coach Jeb Stuart Johnston about his transition from musician and bartender to a coach specializing in emotional eating and binge eating. We explore the integration of therapy and coaching to tackle emotional and behavioral issues related to food and body image. Johnston shares his personal experience with addiction and the influence of dialectical behavior therapy on his approach. The discussion includes practical strategies for managing emotional eating, such as mindfulness and finding joy in activities beyond food. We also address misconceptions...2024-04-291h 08

Living Your LegacyAshleigh Johnston - Don't be Trapped - Be an Example of What is Possible!Episode Highlights:How do parents typically react when they first learn their child has special needs?What steps can parents take to bring about a positive shift in their circumstances?Where can parents turn to for assistance when they feel overwhelmed while raising a special needs child?Why is it important for parents to prioritize self-care, and what benefits does it bring to their children?And much more! About Ashleigh Johnston:Ashleigh Johnston is a mother of three young kids (ages 11, 7, and 3), 2 with special needs (ages 7 and 3), a life coach, wife of 12 years, e...2023-10-0959 min

Mommas Have Special Needs TooEp. 95 What to do when it’s too hardIf you enjoyed this podcast give it a review & rating and share it with a loved one. Follow “Mommas have Special Needs Too”; Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/486595858884320 Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@parentshavespecialneedstoo2022 2023-05-0125 min

Mommas Have Special Needs TooEp.94Therapy VS CoachingIf you enjoyed this podcast give it a review & rating and share it with a loved one. Follow “Mommas have Special Needs Too”; Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/486595858884320 Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@parentshavespecialneedstoo2022 2023-04-2428 min

Mommas Have Special Needs TooEp. 93 Mommy Guilt Part 2If you enjoyed this podcast give it a review & rating and share it with a loved one. Follow “Mommas have Special Needs Too”; Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/486595858884320 Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@parentshavespecialneedstoo2022 2023-04-1707 min

Mommas Have Special Needs TooEp. 92 When you Go Numb EmotionallyIf you enjoyed this podcast give it a review & rating and share it with a loved one. Follow “Mommas have Special Needs Too”; Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/486595858884320 Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@parentshavespecialneedstoo2022 2023-04-1020 min

Mommas Have Special Needs TooEp. 91 How to not LOSE IT when your KIDS LOSE ITIf you enjoyed this podcast give it a review & rating and share it with a loved one. Follow “Mommas have Special Needs Too”; Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/486595858884320 Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@parentshavespecialneedstoo2022 2023-04-0324 min

Mommas Have Special Needs TooEp. 89 Mommy Guilt Part 1Mommy guilt is big a pervasive issue. Over the next little while I'll be deconstructing mommy guilt. Join me as I share my thoughts this week about: - What do I feel guilty about? - Why do I feel guilty about that? If you enjoyed this podcast give it a review & rating and share it with a loved one. Follow “Mommas have Special Needs Too”; Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/486595858884320 Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@parentshavespecialneedstoo2022 2023-03-2035 min

Mommas Have Special Needs TooEp. 88 Mental LoadIf you enjoyed this podcast give it a review & rating and share it with a loved one. Follow “Mommas have Special Needs Too”; Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/486595858884320 Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@parentshavespecialneedstoo2022 2023-03-1316 min

Mommas Have Special Needs TooEp. 87 Reviewing Glorifying Self-NeglectOne of the top reasons that special needs mommas are overwhelmed, exhausted, and burned out is because they neglect taking care of themselves. But why do they do this? In this podcast I share: A story that depicts self-neglect Why we often self-neglect The consequences and signs of self-neglect If you enjoyed this podcast give it a review & rating and share it with a loved one. Follow “Mommas have Special Needs Too”; Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/486595858884320 Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@parentshavespecialneedstoo2022 2023-03-0718 min

Mommas Have Special Needs TooEp.86 Getting Out of StressFor more information like this join my free Facebook group at: https://www.facebook.com/groups/486595858884320/?ref=share&mibextid=ykz3hl 2023-03-0125 min

Mommas Have Special Needs TooEp. 85 When you aren’t having the motherhood experience you wanted.In this episode I talk about the dilemma of grief over losing the motherhood experience you wanted, all the while not wanting to overlook the child(ren) you have, but still making room for how you genuinely feel. I cover ways you can rethink it and a practical exercise that will help you. For more information like this join my free Facebook group at: https://www.facebook.com/groups/486595858884320/?ref=share&mibextid=ykz3hl 2023-02-2024 min

Mommas Have Special Needs TooEp. 84 Self-SacrificeSacrifice is a great character trait and is essential for any good parent to have. But what happens when you get carried away with it? Most mommas do. It's actually pretty common and even more prominent among special needs mommas. If you are interested in figuring out how to stop self-sacrificing to your own detriment then this is the episode for you. Join the private facebook group for Mommas like you and me: https://www.facebook.com/groups/486595858884320 Email me directing if you want to cut to the chase, get out of chronic str...2023-02-1316 min

Mommas Have Special Needs TooEp. 83 Burnout: Special Needs Mommas EditionBurnout, Burnout, Burnout! In this episode I address burnout. What is it? Why do we get it? And how do we get out of it? I address burnout and other topics that move us mommas from chaos to order in my FB group. Link below. Join the private facebook group for Mommas like you and me: https://www.facebook.com/groups/486595858884320 2023-02-0727 min

Mommas Have Special Needs TooEp. 82 You don’t need to be any better than you are right nowIn this episode I talk about the idea that you DON'T need to be better than you are. That this train of thought actually keeps you from doing what you want to be doing and that it isn't actually realistic. Join the private facebook group for Mommas like you and me: https://www.facebook.com/groups/486595858884320 2023-01-3013 min

Mommas Have Special Needs TooEp. 81 Resilient Self ConfidenceSo many things can erode self-confidence. From the unexpected life events to continued failed attempts to make a positive difference for your child, to dead end after dead end. Whatever it is, self-confidence can be rebuilt. And rebuilt into a more resilient and long lasting self-confidence. Join the private facebook group for Mommas like you and me: https://www.facebook.com/groups/486595858884320 2023-01-2319 min

Mommas Have Special Needs TooEp. 80 Causal Self-CareCan we just please get some REAL self-care that actually works?! As a special needs mom effecient and effective are important . In this episode I talk about: - Causal "real" self-care and what it is - How addressing your thoughts have a major role in real self-care - How to start solving emotionals struggles and pains Join the Private FB group to take your life from chaos to order, surviving to thriving, drudgery to joy. It's free! https://www.facebook.com/groups/486595858884320 2023-01-1613 min

Mommas Have Special Needs TooEp 79 How to Stop Putting Yourself on the Back BurnerIn this episode I share several common reasons WHY you keep putting yourself on the back burner as well as some tips on HOW TO STOP so you can actually enjoy your life and not resent those you actually love the most. Link to apply for PRIVATE Facebook Group "Mommas have Special Needs Too" https://facebook.com/groups/486595858884320/ Doors open TODAY, Jan 9th 2023, claim your FREE welcome gift! 2023-01-0909 min

Mommas Have Special Needs TooEp 78 Simplify and ThriveIn this episode I talk about how to thrive amid your weaknesses. How to overview: 1) Simplify and decide 2) Make and plan of action and ACT! 3) Make all progress visible *details of each in the podcast ;) Link to apply for PRIVATE Facebook Group "Mommas have Special Needs Too" https://facebook.com/groups/486595858884320/ Doors open Jan 9th 2023, claim your FREE welcome gift! 2023-01-0215 min

Mommas Have Special Needs TooEp 77 Peace on ChristmasIn this episode I talk about HOW being present and grateful can create the peace you are looking for this Christmas. p.s.- join the group of like minded mommas! Search “mommas have special needs too” Facebook group. 2022-12-2507 min

Mommas Have Special Needs TooEp 76 Family ManualsHey there! Merry Christmas! In this Christmas episode I talk about how to address the emotional struggles that we all often feel when we get together with family for the holidays. And it’s not what you think. It’s manuals. That’s right. Our book of unwritten expectations that we have for our loved ones. In this episode I cover: - what a manual is, with examples - how we use them - how they cause disappointment and frustration - and what to do if you want to change your holiday experience to one your enjoy. P.s.- Did you know I...2022-12-1912 min

Mommas Have Special Needs TooEp. 75 How to enjoy your Christmas when you are still buying baby toys for your big kidWant to enjoy Christmas but feeling down about the gifts you are buying for child, even though they are developmentally appropriate? Listen in as I share how I have come to enjoy Christmas with my kids regardless of their developmental level. P.s.- you don’t have to figure it all out on your own. Email me here, ashleighjohnstoncoaching@gmail.com for mental health support designed just for you. 2022-12-1206 min

Mommas Have Special Needs TooEp. 74 What our typical kids can gain from having special needs siblingsIt can be quite difficult to watch your neurotypical children develop a long side your special needs children. To see what experiences they are missing out on. To witness loneliness, sadness, frustration, and anger. But this is only one side of the coin and dare I say the other side of the coin makes it all worth it! In this podcast I share an experience that I had with my oldest son where he shares his thoughts and what it's like to have siblings with special needs. As he shares I get to witness some of the benefits he gets...2022-12-0614 min

Mommas Have Special Needs TooEp. 73 Comparison. What am I doing wrong?In this episode I talk about the struggle of comparing ourselves and our kids to other people and their children. I talked about how to use comparison in a helpful way and when not to use it. Then I give an analogy of how our children are like plants and how different children need different care in order to thrive. Your child's struggle is not your doing, but their thriving can be.2022-11-2810 min

Mommas Have Special Needs TooEp. 72 When you feel there is nothing to be grateful forIn this episode I discuss how difficult feeling grateful for your life can be hard when you feel the rug has been pulled out from under you and your life is not what you expected. If you are in the first few years of having a child with special needs, this episode is perfect for you. I discuss using self-compassion instead of gratitude. Shot me an email at ashleighjohnstoncoaching@gmail.com for comments, questions, or your free phone call. Best Wishes, Ashleigh 2022-11-2107 min

Mommas Have Special Needs TooEp 71 Why you aren’t that specialIn this episode I talk about how we are similar to other parents in the world. Isolation is optional. We can feel connected with other parents that don't have special needs children when we think about how at our root parental desires we have more in common with them than different. 2022-11-1407 min

Mommas Have Special Needs TooEp. 70 ”Welcome to Holland”I share the poem "Welcome to Holland" by Emily Perl Kingsley that describes well the new experience of having a child with special needs. I share a few of my thoughts about how being in Holland isn't bad or a problem. Email me at ashleighjohnstoncoaching@gmail.com if you would like FREE coaching sessions. Share with me your main reason for wanting the coaching session, let's get a conversation going and get YOU the support YOU need so you can get your child the support they need. 2022-11-0708 min

Mommas Have Special Needs TooEp. 69 grieving and the holidaysWe're heading into the holiday season. There seems to be ample triggers for grief and sadness. In this episode I talked about the grieving experience I had around my son's birthday and how I dealt with it so we could have an enjoyable and celebratory experience with him. ashleighjohnstoncoaching@gmail.com 2022-10-3110 min

Mommas Have Special Needs TooEp. 68 Development Update: from crying fits to laughing fitsIt has been almost 6 months since we started therapy with my little guy, Jacob. Today it just dawned on me how much his demeanor has changed and progress he had made. 2022-10-2505 min

Mommas Have Special Needs TooEp. 67 Neurodivergence as a continuumI asked a question this past week. How do you heal neurodivergence? This is the feedback I got. "You can't heal neurodivergence! Is this real!? This is awful! You just need to love your child as they are!" It led me to some profound insights you'll want to hear. 2022-10-2515 min

Mommas Have Special Needs TooEp. 66 Finding your voice of advocationThe lesson I learned when my son gave me a hug. 2022-10-1711 min

Mommas Have Special Needs TooEp. 66 Learned HelplessnessLet's talk about learned helplessness! In this episode I discuss what learned helplessness is, what are the symptoms, how this plays out for parents with special needs kids, and what to do about it. Below I've linked articles I referenced in the show with a bonus article. Good stuff! https://www.betterup.com/blog/learned-helplessness https://www.verywellmind.com/what-is-learned-helplessness-2795326#toc-the-role-of-explanatory-styles https://www.summitdaily.com/news/disability-101-learned-helplessness/2022-10-1018 min

Mommas Have Special Needs TooEp. 65 Self-PityIn this episode I discuss the utility of self-pity, the ways self-pity can undermine you, and how to become aware of self-pity. It's not what you think. 2022-10-0314 min

Mommas Have Special Needs TooEp. 64 Active vs Passive AcceptanceI used to think that acceptance was a "settling" of my life. Like "well this is as good as it's gonna get, and there's nothing I can do about it". But I was wrong. Acceptance can be powerful, if it's active. In this episode I talk about the two kinds of acceptance and how they work. 2022-09-2607 min

Mommas Have Special Needs TooEp. 63 Why Your Suffering is DebilitatingYour emotional pain stops you in your tracks. It's debilitating. But you aren't sure why. Listen in as I share what I learned from my years of debilitating depression after learning about my daughter's medical struggles. 2022-09-1911 min

Mommas Have Special Needs TooEp. 62 Finding YourselfIf you’ve felt lost. Maybe like you never really belonged to yourself. And now you are giving a lot of yourself to care for your children, and you still feel slightly hollow and empty inside and no idea who you are then listen in! 2022-09-1218 min

Mommas Have Special Needs TooEp. 61 Finding Yourself AgainRemember when you used to feel lit up and excited about life? When you felt fulfilled with what you were doing with your time? Does it feel like a distant memory? If you are ready to re-ignite the flame and bring back that excitement then this is the podcast for you. I share an expansive perspective and simple process on how to get clarity on how to re-ignite that flame, starting small and simple. 2022-09-0514 min

Mommas Have Special Needs TooEp. 60 The Pain of Watching Your Child Miss OutIt can be sad when you watch your child miss out due to their special needs limitations, but here's some tips to get through these situations. 2022-08-2914 min

Mommas Have Special Needs TooEp. 59 Processing EmotionsHave you ever felt like if you allow yourself to feel your emotions that you're not sure if you will come out of it? Like your scary emotions are a dark pit that you don't know you can get out of once you are in it? Like you are at the mercy of your emotions? In this episode I talked about why you feel this way and what to do about it. 2022-08-2208 min

Mommas Have Special Needs TooEp. 58 MarriageParents with special needs children often have increased difficulties with their marriage. I hope to remedy that with these 6 tips to help strengthen marriages. 2022-08-1515 min

Mommas Have Special Needs TooEp. 57 IntuitionShould you trust your intuition over the advice you get from experts? Here are my thoughts.2022-08-0808 min

Mommas Have Special Needs TooEp.56 Self-CompassionI'm your host, Ashleigh Johnston, here to offer tips to reduce negative self-talk and increase self-compassion. 2022-08-0113 min

Mommas Have Special Needs TooEp 55 The Unsolvable ProblemOne of the greatest frustrations people face is trying to solve this unsolvable problem. 2022-07-2505 min

Mommas Have Special Needs TooEp. 54 Reality vs PossibilityIs it better to be realistic or to have hope for you and your special needs child? Here are my thoughts. 2022-07-1806 min

Mommas Have Special Needs TooEp. 53 How to Get it All DoneHave you felt overwhelmed with too much to do and just can't get it all done? Listen in to learn how to beat the overwhelm and get done what's essential. 2022-07-1115 min

Mommas Have Special Needs TooEp 52 Isolation at Family GatheringsHave you felt isolated at Family Gatherings because of your special needs children? Here are my tips on how you can handle those situations. Happy Independence day! 2022-07-0412 min

Mommas Have Special Needs TooEp 51 When Other People JUDGE your Special Needs ChildrenHave you experienced when other people judge your special needs children? I have. And here's what I learned on how to handle that situation. Jacob has autistic tendencies and hearing issues. Elisabeth has a genetic mutation called Bryant-Li-Bhoj nerodevelopmental syndrome. My Website - https://www.ashleighjohnston.com Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/ajohn_ston/ Podcast - https://ashleighjohnstoncoaching.podbean.com/ 2022-06-2707 min

Mommas Have Special Needs TooEp 50 You’re Doing a Good JobThis is something all parents need to hear more often because they rarely believe it: You're Doing a Good Job! And Happy Father's Day! Watch this on YouTube: https://youtu.be/H34I3GgvdbE 2022-06-2011 min

Mommas Have Special Needs TooEp 49 Kicking Exhaustion in the ButtAre you tired of being tired? I'll give you several tips in kicking exhaustion in the butt! 2022-06-1314 min

Mommas Have Special Needs TooEp 48 Making Summer Work for YouSummer is coming, kids are home all day, and here's some tips to make a plan for summer and avoid overwhelm. 2022-06-0613 min

Mommas Have Special Needs TooEp 47 When you feel ostracizedHey Everybody! Let's talk feeling ostracized. When you don't fit the norm the probability of feeling ostracized goes up. If you are done feeling ostracized listen in to learn how those feelings develop and how you can get rid of them. 2022-05-3119 min

Mommas Have Special Needs TooEp 46 Update, overwhelm, and the long-term gameHey there! Thanks for your patience. Here is the link to my YouTube channel: https://youtu.be/6IBMpCf4wgc See you over there! See you hear next week. Take care! 2022-05-1913 min

Mommas Have Special Needs TooEp 45 Oversupported and Happy Mother’s DayHappy Mother's Day! I hope you are getting and giving yourself the support you need. If not, it's okay. I got you! Listen in for some gold on this topic. 2022-05-0915 min

Mommas Have Special Needs TooEp 44 Diagnosis and LabelsOkay! Let's chat about diagnosis and labels. Are they good and helpful? Are they bad and harmful? Are they both? How do they effect our lives? How do they effect how we view our lives and our children? Listen in as I share what I know on this topic. 2022-05-0426 min

Mommas Have Special Needs TooEp 43 Glorifying self-neglectEver been told how you are "a supermom" or "I admired all you give to help you child." Ever feel like the way to be a good mom is to give everything to your child with special needs? Ever feel like you really don't have a choice? Like you are stuck yet you would also give everything you have for your kids, especially to help your child with special needs. That breeds resentment. And yet, we tend to glorify the mom that does it all and more when caring for a child with special needs. Which may look fine...2022-04-2217 min

Mommas Have Special Needs TooEp 42 Self-care that doesn’t suckSelf-care matters ya'll! And I mean REAL self-care. Not the fluffy superficial stuff that makes you feel good for a fleeting moment. That kind of self-care is over used and underqualified to actually sustain you throughout the day. In this episode I share the difference between real self-care that has long-lasting substance and superficial self-care that, while fun, will not help you conquer the daily challenges of your life. It's packed full of goodness! You don't want to miss this one! 2022-04-1816 min

Mommas Have Special Needs TooEp 41 When your child’s disability feels like a burdenIf your child's disability feels burdensome I have just the story for you. This experience really helped me shift my perspective from seeing my child's disability as a weight, a burden, and something that inhibited my life to a blessing and something I appreciated. This story will expand you thinking and in turn lighten the mental load. 2022-04-0910 min

Mommas Have Special Needs TooEp. 40 How to feel betterWith all of the daily struggles that come with raising children with special needs it would be immensely helpful to understand how to feel better, so you can do better. I got you! In this episode I share all you need to know to feel better. 2022-04-0320 min

Mommas Have Special Needs TooEp. 39 Emotions: What they are? Why they matter.What are emotions? Why do they matter in my life? Should I pay attention to them? How do they effect my daily living? What can I do about them? If you have had these questions or any questions like them this is the podcast for you. Listen in as I talk about emotions, what they are and why they matter. 2022-03-2815 min

Mommas Have Special Needs TooEp. 38 Numbing your emotions and why you do it.Do you ever find yourself compulsively researching when you get frustrated about a problem you can't seem to solve? Do you ever find yourself watching another show or scrolling through social media when your overwhelmed about your daily life? Ever wish it would just all go away so you can catch a break. I hear you! Listen in as I address these numbing behaviors, why they happen, and how to manage them. 2022-03-2119 min

Mommas Have Special Needs TooEp. 37 Self-pity and how it is undermining your lifeSelf-pity is a tempting emotion to live from but a hard one to own. Who want to claim they are indulging in self-pity? But listen, it's super validating, life is hard when you child has a disability! But you don't have to feel trapped. You can have a child that has disabilities and feel free, empowered, and in control of your life. Listen in to find out how to start by getting rid of self-pity. 2022-03-1222 min

Mommas Have Special Needs TooEp. 36 Building Resilient KidsThe world is a rough place and our kids are already starting at a disadvantage. Resilience is a crucial emotional skill for our kids to succeed in any form. Listen in to hear about how an incredible couple helped their child become independent even though he had no arms or legs. Note: The YouTube channel is called Truly, NOT Upworthy. Here is the video I promised. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ur8_IUldv-I&t=104s Take a watch/listen. It is so inspiring!!! 2022-03-0513 min

Mommas Have Special Needs TooEp. 35 Realistic GrievingRegardless of what difficult things happen in your everyday life, the world keeps spinning, and life keeps going. How do you deal with the sadness and grief when you can't seem to catch a break? Listen in as I tell you about a more realistic, practical, and sustainable way to help address your grief. If you are looking relief and reprieve without dropping the ball, then this podcast is for you. 2022-02-2810 min

Mommas Have Special Needs TooEp. 34 Processing Your EmotionsWe are creatures of emotion. Our emotions are a huge part of our human experience. We chase emotions like pleasure, happiness, and fulfillment and we run away from emotions like pain, sadness, and overwhelm. But did you know you can't run away from your emotions? It's impossible. They will always catch up. The best way to live a life of wholeness, which involves a lot less persistent negative emotions by the way, is to process your emotions; to allow and notice them. In this episode I will share with you how to process your emotions which will lead you...2022-02-2016 min

Mommas Have Special Needs TooEp. 33 Choosing your struggleIf you have to struggle, which you do, you might as well choose it. Listen in to learn why choosing your struggle is awesome, what it is, and how it will help you struggle less. 2022-02-1416 min

Mommas Have Special Needs TooEp. 32 Working with Medical ProfessionalsThis is a huge part of your life if you have a child with medical needs and it can be tough. But it doesn't have to be. Listen in as I share what I learned and how I made it easier to work with my daughter's medical professionals. 2022-02-0624 min

Mommas Have Special Needs TooEp. 31 GrievingSome doesn't need to die to feel immense loss. How do you deal with this kind of grief? I share my experiences as well as what I have done to process and move through my grief. If you want this too, you'll want to listen in. 2022-01-2926 min

Mommas Have Special Needs TooEp. 30 hardship versus resilienceIt's hard and my life is limited versus I'm free and resilient. Where are you? Where do you want to be? 2022-01-2211 min

Mommas Have Special Needs TooEp. 29 Feeling good without changing my circumstancesI wallowed in self pity, disguised as "reality", for too long. Thought that all the negative emotions that I was experiencing was happening to me. I wish someone would have told it to me straight at the beginning of this journey. So today I do. 2022-01-1512 min

Mommas Have Special Needs TooEp. 28 Unnecessary SufferingThere is a difference between suffering with a purpose and suffering unnecessarily. I'll tell what that is and why it is important when you have a child with special needs. 2022-01-0817 min

Self Esteem PartyAshleigh Crystal HairstonOn this week’s episode, Alana and her guest Ashleigh Crystal Hairston (Craig of the Creek, The Neighborhood) have a massive revelation about how Ashleigh’s search for the perfect chair represents her fear of moving forward and how the chair actually represents her search for a lifelong partner. They also talk about Pandemi bodies and the power it holds over them. Produced/husband/roommate Norm Sousa woke up tired and boy is he making it everyone’s problem. Also, Alana threatens to throw her dog in a dumpster even though she absolutely does not mean it and lo...2020-11-111h 01

Mommas Have Special Needs TooEp 27 NeuroplasticityIn this episode I introduce the idea of neuroplasticity and leave it open for interpretation of what it could mean for you and your families mental health.2020-09-0511 min

Mommas Have Special Needs TooEp 26 Introspective QuestionsIn 1750 Benjamin Franklin, in his Poor Richard's Almanack, observed the great difficulty of knowing one's self, with: "There are three Things extremely hard, Steel, a Diamond, and to know one's self." And boy was he right. But I have found a gateway to starting the journey of knowing yourself better and more intimately and that is introspective questions. Introspection is the examination or observation of one's own mental and emotional processes. As I have asked myself questions that foster introspection I start to understand why I do what I do, say what I say, and think what I...2020-08-2812 min

Mommas Have Special Needs TooEp 25 How to handle you anger towards doctorsEver been angry with your child's doctors? In this episode I talk about when I was feeling angry and tried to avoid my child's doctor and what I discovered that helped me turn it around.2020-08-2114 min

Mommas Have Special Needs TooEp 24 Working with doctorsHave you ever experienced frustration or uncertainty when dealing with your child's doctors or therapists? You are not alone. Here are a few thoughts that have helped me increase my confidence and get the care my daughter needs when it comes to working with doctors.2020-08-1412 min

Mommas Have Special Needs TooEp 23 Little movements add up to improve your moodNeed a pick me up? Look no further than a little exercise. Not new news, yet highly under utilized. Check out the simple process I used today. Study I referred to: https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamapsychiatry/fullarticle/2720689?resultClick=1 2020-08-0710 min

Mommas Have Special Needs TooEp 22 ParadigmsIn this podcast I chat about shifting paradigms. This can be a powerful things when trying to make big changes in your life in which "white-knuckling it" just will not suffice. Thanks to Stephen R. Covey's book "The 7-habits of highly effective people" for planting the seed for this discussion.2020-07-3117 min

Mommas Have Special Needs TooEp 21 The passive tantrumPassive tantrum is a great way to stay comfortable and avoid struggle but in doing so you may be undermining your ability or your child's ability for growth and development. In this episode I discuss what a passive tantrum, my experience with it, and thoughts about it.2020-07-2514 min

Mommas Have Special Needs TooEp 20 ControlEver feel out of control? Totally get it! Here are a few tips and questions to ask yourself to figure out where you have control and where you don't. When you put your energy in to the places that you do have control you take back your personal power. It's awesome sauce!2020-07-1715 min

Mommas Have Special Needs TooEp 19 When your child is non-verbalEver feel drained or frustrated about communicating with your non-verbal child? Here are some tips that help me get rid of those feelings and connect with my child.2020-07-1016 min

Mommas Have Special Needs TooEp 18 Happiness = ProgressDid you know that you can access feelings of happiness right now if you want to? And it's not in big accomplishments, big results, or in life style changes.2020-07-0310 min

Mommas Have Special Needs TooEp 17 Your child’s disability is your mirrorHey Ya'll, Did you know that our life experiences reflect and amplify our perspectives of the world? Yeah, it's a thing. And in the case of raising children with special needs those parts of us that we struggle with the most tend to be brought up front and center. Listen as I share what this looks like for me and how I started the path to overcome those challenges.2020-06-2614 min

Mommas Have Special Needs TooEp 16 Grieving your child’s diagnosisHave you ever felt grief knowing your child's life is now going to be different than "normal"? Grief that your life is now not going to be "normal"? Me too. In this podcast I talk about the process of grieving, what it might look like, and a few ways to process it.2020-06-2014 min

Mommas Have Special Needs TooEp 15 EmpathyEver wonder how to interact with someone that is different than you? How to connect with someone that has nothing in common with you? The answer...empathy. Empathy is the great connector between humans. In this episode I talk about what empathy is, where to use it, and how to develop it. Thanks to Brene' Brown for doing the research you have done and being brave enough to share it with the world.2020-06-1210 min

Mommas Have Special Needs TooEp 14 Layering our struggles to meet our needsMost problems can be categorized into 2 different groups: problems that grow us (quality problems) and problems that keep us stuck. What is interesting is that we often layer our these, positioning our "stuck" problem in such a way that our quality problem can be hidden from view. Why do we do this? That's what I talk about in this episode.2020-06-0618 min

Mommas Have Special Needs TooEp 13 Arguing with what isHave you ever felt like your child shouldn't have their issues? Like you shouldn't have yours? The world shouldn't have some of its issues? Me too. But here's the thing...even with us wanting them to be different, they aren't...and here's why I think that is a good thing, even the way it should be.2020-05-2912 min

Mommas Have Special Needs TooEp 12 Embracing your own humannessYou every feel like you aren't a good enough parent? Like you seem to always be failing in some aspect of your parenting life that you wish you were just better at like...yesterday?! Me too. If I new of a way to do that I'd be all over it! But I don't. But I DO we can feel at peace with where we are as we continue to become more of who we want to be. Hope this can help you find a little more peace too. P.S.- Did you know that I am a...2020-05-2217 min

Mommas Have Special Needs TooEp 11 Letter for ElisabethHey Ya'll This week I shared a blog post I wrote awhile back where I wrote a letter to Elisabeth talking about all the things I learned through my toughest year yet with her. It has some great insights in it that may be helpful for ya. Have a good week! Link to my blog post: https://www.ashleighjohnston.com/single-post/2019/01/17/Elisabeth%E2%80%99s-Story-Part-8 2020-05-1507 min

Mommas Have Special Needs TooEp 10 Allowing our kids to failAnd....we're back...with some failure. Nothing like a good dose of failure. Actually making good friends with failure maybe your quickest path to success and confidence. If you have on the right glasses. In this podcast I talk about the "behind the scene" thoughts that often get us to not let our kids fail and what they get to experience when we are willing to step out of the way and let them struggle themselves to a victory.2020-05-0824 min

Mommas Have Special Needs TooEp 9 Joe Newman’s ”Raising Lions” (Read the show notes!)Hello my people! When I originally recorded this podcast I thought I would be needing to take some time off to figure some things out...but...I figured it out! I plan to be back this Friday. Talk about the fear inside of you freaking you out and stuff! You know what I mean people! Come on! Anywho... Huge thanks to those of you that have been listening. Praying you are finding the help that are looking for. Here is where you can find out more about "Raising Lions" by Joe...2020-05-0208 min

Mommas Have Special Needs TooEp 8 Sneaky little thoughtsIn this podcast I talk about those thoughts that sound generous and kind but are actually thoughts that sabotage you so you don't show up as the person or parent that you want to be or have that relationships that you want to have.2020-04-2512 min

Mommas Have Special Needs TooEp 7 When a short term trial becomes a long term trialIn this episode I discuss having a 20/20 hindsight vision when you are in the middle of a difficult time instead of waiting till the end. I have noticed 5 different phases that I have gone through so far and what I have learned from them. Maybe you have too?2020-04-1721 min

Mommas Have Special Needs TooEp 6 Toxic positivityPositive thinking does not make the struggle go away. Positive thinking does have a place and can be very effective, but if used toxically it can create a hot mess! In this podcast I talk about what toxic positivity is, how it works, and how to avoid it. 2020-04-1016 min

Mommas Have Special Needs TooEp 5 The heavy load of disabilityDoes caring for a child with special needs feels like a heavy load to carry? But one that you never set down? The story I share in this podcast shifted my thoughts and feelings from ones of "this is too hard" and "it shouldn't be this way" to feelings of gratitude and empowerment. Take a listen as this could be the case for you too. 2020-04-0312 min

Mommas Have Special Needs TooEp 4 Is it possible having a child with special needs is the perfect life for you?Most often human brains like to look for the problem and solve it. When you have a child with special needs the brain can easily make that mean "something has gone wrong". "Life isn't supposed to be this way." "Why me out of all the people?" But what if your brain is wrong about this? What if nothing has gone wrong here? What if you are just the person to have a child with special needs and have a fulfilled and successful life? Don't dismiss these last questions so quickly. You will miss out on possibility. 2020-03-2707 min

Mommas Have Special Needs TooEp. 3 Managing FearScared about COVID and the many things it is effecting? You are not alone. Listen in as I share what to do when you feel fear and what other options there are for you so you can take action from a positive emotion instead of fear. 2020-03-2018 min

Mommas Have Special Needs TooEp 2 Your expectations are undermining your happinessIs your life turning out just like you expected? Mine neither. Are the people in my life behaving like I think they should? Mine neither! This is SO frustrating!!! But no worries. I've figured out why and share it with you in this episode. If you haven't really analyzed the nature of expectations that get ready for a major paradigm shift. It's blow your mind! In a good way. ;) 2020-03-1320 min

Mommas Have Special Needs TooEp 1 What’s this all about?Hey ya'll! Welcome to the podcast! I so stoked that you are here! This a going to be an awesome experience. Here you will find everything that I have successfully done and will do to maintain my sanity and resilience as a parent raising children with special needs, mental and emotional health being at the top of the list. You will also find tool to create a life want. Perhaps one that you are doubting is even possible. It may not look like what you were initially hoping for but it will still be just a great...2020-03-0605 min