Shows
Joy In The JourneyBringing Peace & Joy to Families with Pediatric Cancer with Jenna KmitchCaring for a newly diagnosed child going through a medical journey can be scary and overwhelming. Especially when finding resources meant to support you, like Child Life Specialists, requires extensive research and planning. This is why I am so grateful to our guest today, Jenna Kmitch, for courageously sharing what her process looks like beside her daughter Sydney, who was diagnosed with neuroblastoma just a few weeks after birth. Jenna is the founder of Love Smiles, an organization dedicated to bringing moments of peace and joy to families with pediatric cancer through stories. Tod...
2024-05-1743 minJoy In The JourneyInsights on Communicating Effectively With Your Medical Team with Henry Rosh & Megan KeelerWhen you first enter the medical world as a caregiver, everyone around you hits the ground running. The nurses and doctors know exactly how to get started, and yet, you might be left feeling overwhelmed and powerless. This is what makes social workers so important: they support the family holistically, encourage communication, help bridge information gaps, and empower you to become an important member of your child’s medical team. My guests today, Henry Rosh and Megan Keeler, are both social workers at Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago. Henry works with families who have extended adm...
2024-05-0247 minJoy In The JourneyDiscovering Unexpected Gifts in Times of Grief with Sara WardAfter losing someone close to us we are usually told about the five stages of grief and how each of them will show up. But grief often shows up differently for everyone, skipping and cycling through stages in unique ways. My guest today is Sara Ward, and she knows a thing or two about grieving. After unexpectedly losing her father to a heart problem as a teenager, her 9-month-old adopted son was diagnosed with a rare and terminal disease and given a very short time to live. Instead of choosing to focus only on the h...
2024-03-2640 minJoy In The JourneyThe Glimpses of Joy You’ll Find When You Look For Them with Gina ProschWe’ve all experienced those days where it feels like we catch every red light on a busy commute and nothing seems to be going right. But what happens when we’re intentional about stopping to look for the small glimmers of joy, even in those heavier days? Allow me to introduce you to today’s guest to answer that question. Gina Prosch is a writer and teacher who has made it her mission to help children and adults find joy in even the most difficult days. Her childrens books are perfect for little ones who may be exp...
2024-03-0823 minJoy In The JourneyOffering Hope, Dignity and Holistic Care in Kenyan Hospice with Juli BoitJuli Boit is no stranger to helping those in need. She’s an author, family nurse practitioner, and international non-profit director of Living Room International, dedicated to providing palliative care services to adults and children in western Kenya. After going through an adoption journey with her son Ryan, whose parents had recently passed, and consequently adopting his siblings, she found herself needing some help of her own when two of her kids required transplants far from their Kenyan home. These transformative experiences made Juli see her work through a different lens: that joy can be foun...
2024-02-0636 min
The Business of Non-ProfitsMattea’s Joy, Jamie Freedlund - The Journey from a Passion Project to Setting Down RootsOn this episode of The Business of Non-Profits, we talk to Jamie Freedlund the founder and executive director of Mattea’s Joy, an organization that brings community and joy to families with hospitalized children. She’ll talk to us about the journey from a passion project to setting down roots with a facility and community programs.
matteasjoy.org
2024-02-0626 minJoy In The JourneyTrauma & Anxiety: Going From “Why Me?” to “What Now?” with Sarah FalkSarah Falk has received more than a few extremely scary cancer diagnoses in her life: the first one at only 17 years old (bone cancer) and the second at 40 years old (breast cancer). Naturally, she found herself asking, “Why Me”? But as you’ll hear, a better question to ask yourself is, “What now?” Sarah is a mom to 4 boys, a mental health therapist, an author, and 4-time cancer survivor. She has taken her traumatic experiences and used them as a source of deep understanding of the challenges these diagnoses come with. Having specialized in anxiety, panic, and trauma, he...
2024-01-2330 minJoy In The JourneyBlooming Littles: Helping Parents and Caregivers Manage NICU Journeys with Katie RossAs today’s guest will tell you, “You become a NICU parent in the blink of an eye.” Katie Ross is the creator of Blooming Littles and she’s doing incredible work in the NICU space as a certified neonatal occupational therapist. As a mom of a full-term NICU baby herself, she’s made it her mission to inform and empower parents by teaching them about the little things they can do that make a difference in their baby’s development and truly transform their NICU experience. By combining her doctorate with additional certifications, including neonatal massa...
2024-01-0944 minJoy In The JourneyExploring Growth Through Grief and Choosing Faith Everyday with Emily Ann AdamsHow are parents meant to believe that the loss of a child is all part of God’s plan? Grief is a difficult journey for everyone, but it can feel especially challenging when it’s accompanied by a feeling of losing yourself or your faith. My guest today, Emily Ann Adams, had this exact experience after the passing of one of her twin boys, Aidan. Faced with three little children under 5 to look after, including Aidan’s brother Alan who was born at 32 weeks, Emily made a courageous decision; to dive deep into her grief to unde...
2023-12-1252 minJoy In The JourneyFinding Community and Letting Love In on a NICU Journey with Meg HelgesonOne of the only certainties about having children is uncertainty: we can’t find out beforehand how a pregnancy or birth experience will go, or who our children will grow up and become. Add in a premature birth, an illness diagnosis, and a NICU stay to the mix, and it can lead to overwhelming worry and anxiety. My guest today, Meg Helgeson, is certainly no stranger to this. Her twin girls Ellie and Leah, who are now healthy 12-year-old girls, had to be flown to the NICU at Comer’s Children Hospital at only 5 days old to rece...
2023-11-2843 minJoy In The JourneyLearning To Flex Your “Joy Muscle” with Bekah BowmanWhen a parent learns that their child has been diagnosed with a serious illness or condition, it’s difficult not to be consumed with worst case scenarios. But as Bekah Bowman will tell you, you have two choices: either allow your past and future to steal joy from your present, or embrace joy in the present moment, no matter what it looks like. And Bekah is no stranger to this concept: her two boys, Titus and Ely, were both affected by a rare genetic disease (CLN2) that leads to the quick loss of skills and even...
2023-11-1435 minJoy In The JourneyImerman Angels: Giving the Gift of Hope and Joy to Cancer Patients with Jonny ImermanEven though symptoms and conditions are always unique, there is one thing most people who’ve recently been diagnosed with a difficult condition have in common: the search for hope and answers to many questions. Today's guest, Jonny Imerman, has made it his life mission to bridge that gap; through his non-profit, Imerman Angels, Jonny has connected thousands of cancer survivors with recently diagnosed cancer patients. After getting diagnosed with cancer at 26 and going through years of complicated treatments and surgeries, Jonny found purpose and meaning in his traumatic experience by helping others. Through Immerman’s Ang...
2023-10-3141 minJoy In The JourneyCelebrating Down Syndrome Awareness & Inclusion and Redefining Potential with Amy Julia BeckerDuring pregnancy, parents usually imagine what their child will be like and everything they’ll get to do together. You get excited about all the traditional milestones and look forward to experiencing this new reality. But for parents who receive difficult news after the birth of their child, such as an unexpected Down Syndrome diagnosis, this reality is shattered in a matter of seconds. Even the most understanding of parents are faced with grieving and adjusting. Amy Julia Becker (an award-winning writer and speaker on Disabilities and Family) experienced this first hand at the birth of h...
2023-10-1741 minJoy In The JourneyA Sneak Peek from Season 3 of Joy in the JourneyI'm so excited to get season 3 of the Joy in the Journey podcast underway and I wanted to share a sneak peek with all of you. If there's one thing that I've grown to appreciate after starting this podcast, it's the power of a shared story. And in season 3, I have an incredible array of inspring individuals lined up. So enjoy this sneak peek and stay tuned for a new episode next week! Don't forget to subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Stitcher, or wherever you listen, so future episodes are automatically downloaded directly t...
2023-10-1004 minJoy In The JourneyHow ‘That’s What She Said’ Gives Women Permission to Share Their Story with Jenette JurczykIf there’s one thing that I’ve learned since starting this podcast, it’s the power of sharing stories. And today’s guest would wholeheartedly agree with that, as she’s been helping women share their stories in powerful and meaningful ways for years. Jenette Jurczyk is the National Director of the She Said Project and a Professional Storytelling Coach. She’s also the co-founder and President of the Family Room, a non-profit organization that supports foster children and families in her community. She’s also the host of the She Said Podcast, which features the women who have...
2023-06-1340 minJoy In The JourneyThe Magic of Surrender and The Greatest Gift to Give to Your Child with Kute BlacksonI am so excited to share this conversation with you today. Today's guest exudes positivity and inspiration, and I truly hope you'll enjoy hearing his message as much as I did. Kute Blackson is a transformational teacher, speaker, visionary guide, and national bestselling author of You Are the One and The Magic of Surrender. He also hosts the Soul Talk podcast and has dedicated his life to personal development, spirituality, transformation, and helping others navigate life's challenges. Kute was born in Ghana and grew up in London, England. When he was just 8 years old, he h...
2023-06-0647 minJoy In The JourneyTrusting Your Instincts to Advocate for Your Child with Eunice ClayIf your child is in the hospital, there may be times when your motherly instincts kick in because you know that something isn't right. And as you'll hear from today's guest, there's nothing wrong with speaking up and advocating for your child, even when the medical teams tell you everything is fine. Before Eunice Clay's son was born, all the tests were clear. Soon afterward, Jahari was having trouble breathing as there was fluid building up in his lungs. After further testing, Jahari was diagnosed with a heart defect called TAPVR. (Total Anomalous Pulmonary Venous Return)
2023-05-2336 minJoy In The JourneyOpening Career Paths For People With Hidden Disabilities with Veronica PorterAt the age of 16, Veronica Porter’s son was in a tragic car accident that left him in a coma for three weeks. His brain injury resulted in permanent brain damage that has affected him and everyone around him in many ways. Still, his disability is not obvious or apparent to the naked eye. Despite the injury, Veronica’s son is a very high-functioning and capable young man whose symptoms only show up occasionally, leaving those around him who are unfamiliar with his story confused about his actions. Today, Veronica shares the story of how she st...
2023-05-1627 min
The Mama SisterhoodEpisode 15 - Jamie's Story - Finding Joy in the Journey After Infant LossThis week's guest is Jamie Freedlund. While pregnant, Jamie was given the news that her daughter, Mattea, had only a 5% chance of surviving birth. Despite the odds, Mattea lived for nine months, and this experience led Jamie to create Mattea's Joy, a non-profit she has run for 13 years. Mattea's Joy has served over 10,000 meals to families of hospitalized children in the Chicagoland area and has expanded to include many additional projects to help families of hospitalized kids.
You can find out more about Mattea's Joy at www.matteasjoy.org
You can also find out more...
2023-05-1634 minJoy In The JourneyPromoting Neurodiversity and Giving a Voice to Autism with Dr. Taylor DayRaising a child with autism is a process that requires patience, resilience, and an information-seeking mindset. But as rewarding as the journey can be, an autism diagnosis can alter the family dynamic and impact each family member in many ways. My guest today, Dr. Taylor Day, is a licensed psychologist who specializes in supporting autistic children and their families with diagnostic evaluations, therapy, and parent coaching. But she also knows firsthand the impacts of growing up with an autistic sibling. Her compassion and understanding of her family’s situation led her to a place where she...
2023-05-0937 minJoy In The JourneyIt Takes a Village: How to Add a Child Life Specialist to Yours with Caitlin McNamaraIf raising a child takes a village, parents can use all the help they can get when navigating a difficult medical journey. But between medical teams, family, friends, and all the different groups of people that come together in order to provide the care needed, a lot of informational gaps can get left behind. From splitting time between the hospital and your family at home to preparing for discharge and transitioning home with (potentially new) medical equipment, it is quite easy to feel overwhelmed as a caregiver. That’s why Child Life Specialists like Caitlin McN...
2023-05-0226 minJoy In The JourneyRaising an Advocate for Other Type 1 Diabetic Kiddos with Kendra RegasWhen Kendra Regas’ son Andon was 5 years old, he had already been dealing with several allergies, including a peanut allergy. That in itself would be plenty for any parent to worry about. Shortly after having his tonsils removed, Andon started wetting the bed. Soon afterward, Kendra booked an appointment to meet with the doctor. After describing the symptoms, the doctor said, “I think I know what it is, but I just hope it’s not.” This led to many more tests, including spending 3 days in the hospital until it was confirmed that Kendra’s son Andon had...
2023-04-1926 minJoy In The JourneyThriving With a Disability and Living Without Limits with Jennifer and Savannah ZirbelWhen Savannah Zirbel was only two and a half years old, she lost her left leg and arm in a terribly unfortunate accident. In the blink of an eye, Savannah and her family’s world was turned upside down as they were left to learn how to navigate life with a disability as their new normal. What they didn’t know was how powerfully inspiring and transformative this journey would turn out to be: Savannah refused to let her disability define her, pushing past every limit she encountered to prove to herself and others that she could accom...
2023-04-1129 minJoy In The JourneyGiving Back by Bringing JOY to Cancer Patients with Joy HarmonI’m so excited to welcome Joy Harmon back to the podcast, as this will be the first time I’ve had a guest on the show for a second time! It feels even more appropriate when you consider that Joy had not one, but two NICU journeys with her daughters. And I’m very happy to say they are thriving right now. Joy is also a breast cancer survivor who underwent treatment at the beginning of COVID when everything changed for everyone. What she has done since then is truly remarkable. For any parent going...
2023-04-0438 minJoy In The JourneyHow Lacey Bracken is Paying It Forward with the Finley Forever FoundationThere truly is nothing more moving than seeing parents who have experienced the loss of a child look for meaningful ways to celebrate their child’s life. Some say grief is love with nowhere to go, and channeling it toward honoring a loved one can be a beautiful way to heal and find joy in the journey. I invited Lacey Bracken to join me on this episode and share the story of her beautiful family. Lacey is a mom to four little girls, including Finley, their 3-year-old daughter, who tragically lost her battle with cancer; Lacey has fou...
2023-03-2841 minJoy In The JourneyThe Story of Mattea Joy from Her Dad’s Perspective with Gary FreedlundAs you can imagine, today’s guest is a very special one. For anyone who has been following the podcast, the truth is I haven’t had many guys on the show. But that doesn’t mean it’s because the male perspective is any less important. That’s why I’m so happy to finally introduce you to my husband, Gary Freedlund. We’ve talked about doing an episode on the podcast together many times, but he wasn’t quite ready to share his side of the story... until now. For those that don’t know, Gary has w...
2023-03-2234 minJoy In The JourneyHow Sweet Darren’s Baked Goods is Changing Lives with Jolene Boothe“Changing lives one baked good and one scoop at a time.” One of the first milestones a new parent looks forward to is their child’s first word. But when Jolene Boothe noticed that her sweet son, Darren, hadn’t started talking by the time he was 18 months old, she began to worry. By the age of two, they were still waiting. And if that wasn’t stressful enough, she was pregnant with her twin daughters by that point. They say it takes a village to raise a child, and those words couldn’t be more ac...
2023-03-1436 minJoy In The JourneyEnding The Stigma of Mental Health Issues with Kathi MeyersFriendly Warning: The content in this episode may be difficult for some listeners In recent years we've seen a big shift toward mental health awareness, but unfortunately, our society doesn't always acknowledge mental health in the same way as physical health. I am so grateful to have Kathi Meyers on the podcast today as a powerful reminder of the things we can do to prioritize our family's mental health. Kathi and her husband, Brandon, have their hearts rooted in service. Their commitment is towards ending the stigma associated with mental health issues through e...
2023-03-0742 minJoy In The JourneyInspiring Children To “Hear Their Song” with Dan RubinsDuring his time in college, Dan Rubins wanted to get involved in a music program, but he found that many of them were generating competition among students, and he was seeking connection and community. And so, Hear Your Song was born: a non-profit serving kids ages 6 to 18 with serious illnesses and complex health needs to make their voices heard through collaborative songwriting. Based in NYC but available virtually nationwide, Hear Your Song helps children with a wide range of physical and mental-health-related diagnoses share their medical journey or emotions through song. It is a child-driven p...
2023-02-2830 minJoy In The JourneyHumbled and Blessed by Blue Hearts and #CarterStrong with Jennifer FortinTime passes very slowly when you’re in a hospital waiting for updates on your child’s surgery. But for Jennifer Fortin, seeing the Facebook updates on her phone in the hospital waiting room opened up a floodgate of tears. People from all over their community had started the hashtag #CarterStrong for their little boy, posting blue hearts, buying t-shirts, and sending prayers. And at that moment, Jennifer understood the complex ways in which people come together in moments of need. Carter is now a strong and happy 10-year-old boy, but when he was 7, he was...
2023-02-2122 minJoy In The JourneyThe Outpouring of Love and Joy from ‘Mustaches for Maddie’ with Chad Morris & Shelly BrownWhen Shelly and Chad’s little girl, Maddie, was diagnosed with a brain tumor at 9 years old, their regular lives with their five children were put on hold. Getting Maddie through surgery became their number one priority, and their family, friends, and neighborhood rallied together to help their family through it. But one person in particular, Shelly’s cousin, embodied what it truly means to show up during difficult moments in small but meaningful ways. It all started when she posted a silly picture of herself wearing a mustache, which was sure to make Maddie giggle, with the h...
2023-02-1436 minJoy In The JourneyThe Entrepreneurial Spirit of a Special Needs Parent with Cari DesiderioAdvocating for our children is one of the most important parenting tasks there is; but it is one that becomes many times more challenging when it comes to children with special needs or going through difficult medical journeys. And when your child is diagnosed with a disease so rare that only a few other children in the entire world have been diagnosed with it, the process becomes much more challenging. I’m so happy to have Cari Desiderio on the show to share her best tips on advocating for children with special needs, as she is no st...
2023-02-0727 minJoy In The JourneyNavigating Big Feelings on the Big Heart Journey with Taes LeavittWhen our children are experiencing big feelings, it can be very tempting as a parent to try to do everything in our power to make our children feel better. But what if the best thing we could do for them is actually help them experience their emotions with confidence, rather than running away from them? That is what Taes Leavitt, my guest on today’s episode, has dedicated her life to: helping parents and children navigate their big feelings. Taes has been called the “new age Mr. Rogers” for her extensive work in children's entertainment, for which she ha...
2023-01-3127 minJoy In The JourneyCreating Joy for the Entire Family with George HardinCaring for a hospitalized child or teenager can feel like a scary and overwhelming experience, but being the hospitalized child or teenager can truly make you feel like you’re missing out on real-world experiences. Thankfully, there are wonderful people who are making a difference to create fun experiences for these families. I’m thrilled to introduce you to today’s guest, George Hardin, as he shares all the wonderful work he does with hospitalized children and teenagers. From hosting music festivals to bringing in therapy dogs, making stuffed animals, discussing sneaker styles, and much more, Ge...
2023-01-2443 minJoy In The JourneyThe Importance of Self-Care & Connection for NICU Parents with Theresa SchreiberAfter the lessons and connections my family experienced during our journey in the NICU with our daughter Mattea, I knew I wanted to be a part of the moving force that helps so many families in the NICU find their own strength and support. Today's guest is Theresa Schreiber. Theresa also knows what it's like to spend time in the NICU and lose a baby, and she talks about how she transformed that loss in a beautiful way to give back to the NICU community. For those that don't know, Theresa was a teacher for 15 ye...
2023-01-1726 minJoy In The JourneyResilience and the Amazing Spirit that Bonds NICU Families with Dr. Patrick MyersThere are very few things as powerful as the strength, courage, and resilience parents find when caring for their sick children. As Dr. Patrick Myers puts it, it is “mind-blowing” what families can do when thinking about their kids. I thought a beautiful way to kick off 2023 would be to celebrate this bond that unites NICU families by inviting Dr. Patrick to share with us the biggest lessons he has learned and teaches, to help families navigate the NICU journey. This episode is especially helpful for those of you currently in the NICU, or for exte...
2023-01-1028 minJoy In The JourneyNICU Blessings and the Joy of Happy Endings with Sarah HemenoverIt’s a new year and I thought there’d be no better way to start off 2023 than to introduce you to my good friend, Sarah Hemenover. Sarah and her family are such a breath of fresh air and a beautiful reminder that NICU experiences, while sometimes difficult, can have incredibly happy endings. Sarah and her husband Matthew are the parents to three beautiful children, and I’m so grateful to have them in our community. Today, Sarah candidly talks about their NICU journey with their youngest daughter, Ava Jane. Ava Jane was born full term but due to...
2023-01-0322 minJoy In The JourneyThe Magic of Making Wishes Come True with Gina Cordes & Lisa HoltThe holiday season is always an incredible time to make wishes come true, but for Gina Cordes and Lisa Holt, it’s their full-time job. I invited these wonderful ladies because they are real-life Fairy Godmothers. Together, they have granted 40 wishes for the Make-A-Wish Foundation, with no plans of stopping anytime soon. When we think of serving others, it’s easy to focus on how it will benefit them and make their lives a little better. But as Gina and Lisa’s stories will show you, helping our local communities can have an incredible impact and bring joy to...
2022-12-2742 minJoy In The JourneyTransforming Pain Into Purpose with Dave BlanchardDave Blanchard, the Founder and CEO of the Og Mandino Group, has delivered over 500 powerful speeches everywhere from Boston to Budapest. And through them, he’s made a rather heartbreaking discovery: everytime he asks his audience if they can remember the last time they truly felt heard and understood, only a few people actually raise their hand. And the few people that did could vividly remember when that occasion was, even when it had already happened several years ago. But often, we forget how powerful it can be to listen to others, and in return truly feel he...
2022-12-2037 minJoy In The JourneyLove is Everywhere with Heidi BrunoWhen the Bruno family was in the thick of it with their daughter Holly fighting through the final stages of her battle with cancer, their community wanted to help. When Heidi was asked how they could help, she mentioned that they could help take care of some yard work that needed a little TLC as they were spending a lot of time at the hospital for Holly's treatments. What happened next was incredibly heartwarming and beautiful. A few days later, 50 to 100 people showed up to their front yard and completely transformed it, going above and...
2022-12-1330 minJoy In The JourneyFacing Life’s Challenges with an Unbreakable Spirit with Banah AbourobeiehIn 2010, Banah left Syria with her 5 year old daughter Rama, and her 9 month old baby boy. Rama was diagnosed with Goldenhar Syndrome, and coming to the US for medical care was one of her only options. But just a few months later a war broke out in Syria making it impossible for Banah and her children to her homeland. As a result, they started from scratch and have been in the US ever since. The ability to introduce Banah and her daughter to each of you is one of the most beautiful privileges I’ve ha...
2022-12-0627 minJoy In The JourneyBrave Hearts & Brittle Bones with Rachel GladAs parents, we try to shelter our children from as much pain and danger as possible. But for a parent of a child with Brittle Bone Disease (Osteogenesis Imperfecta), even something as soft as a carpet can lead to a broken bone. Rachel Glad’s son, Nathan, was diagnosed at birth with a severe form of this disease, which causes him to break a bone on a monthly basis (if not more) due to his bones being extremely fragile. But his family refused to let this diagnosis stop him from finding joy in his journey. Nathan has ev...
2022-11-2939 minJoy In The JourneyDiscover Joy: Build Your Joy Muscles To Do Hard Things with Jamie FreedlundThis week felt like the perfect time to share my sincere thanks and gratitude to everyone who has been a part of the podcast. It's been such a wild ride since I recorded the first episode. I've had the pleasure of speaking with so many amazing human beings, and it fills my cup to hear their stories and nuggets of truth and to have the privilege to share them with you. In this episode, I wanted to talk about how gratitude is the key to unlocking joy in your life. And if we build our "...
2022-11-2218 minJoy In The JourneyHonoring the Servant’s Heart of Family Caregivers with Kim KaneBecoming a caregiver is typically not a journey you ease into: much like the poem "Welcome To Holland" reminds us, it's often like suddenly landing in rainy Holland when you set off to vacation in sunny Italy. "But... if you spend your life mourning the fact that you didn't get to Italy, you may never be free to enjoy the very special, the very lovely things ... about Holland." And since November was recently proclaimed National Family Caregivers Month, I thought it was only fitting to invite Kim Kane to be my guest on today's episode.
2022-11-1526 minJoy In The JourneyDe-Stressing the NICU Experience for Parents with Dr. Bree Andrews and Dr. Joanne LagattaAs a mom who has had a sick child in the NICU, and later in the follow-up clinic, I cannot imagine how different our journey would have been if I had not received the help and care that I did from Mattea’s medical team. Being in the NICU with your child can be an extremely scary experience and their support makes a world of a difference. It’s my pleasure to introduce you to the doctors that completely changed my experience, Dr. Bree Andrews and Dr. Joanne Lagatta. These wonderful ladies are training the next generation of “...
2022-11-0844 minJoy In The JourneyFinding The Magic In The Mundane with Joann MartynWhen tragedy strikes, it’s normal to want to turn inwards and shut out the rest of the world. But while focusing on the challenge ahead is important, it is also important to remember to stay open to receiving medical and emotional support to care packages… and even unexpected friendships. When Mattea was in the NICU, and I was in the thick of adapting to this life-changing event, Joann Martyn came into my life. Her baby boy, Theo, was also in the NICU, but it was her life that had truly been at risk when a severe and...
2022-11-0140 minJoy In The JourneyHelping Parents to Choreograph Their Own Family-Centered Journey with Jenny BerchtoldAs a parent of a child facing a medical challenge, it can be tempting to try to put on as many hats as possible: mom/dad, caregiver, nurse, and sometimes even a medical expert. We often hear doctors ask patients not to Google a diagnosis, but seeking out as much information as possible in the face of a challenge can feel like regaining some control. However, the problem is that carrying all this information can take parents away from their primary role of just being parents. That’s why Family-Centered Care, an approach that aims to...
2022-10-2553 minJoy In The JourneyKeeping the Faith, Living in the Moment, and Growing #PiersenStrong with Tim EakerWhen a parent drops off their child at daycare, getting a phone call during the day is rarely a good thing. And for Tim Eaker, it was life-changing. On Valentine’s Day in 2014, Tim received a call from daycare that his son could not breathe and was headed to the hospital in an ambulance. After a few weeks in the ICU, Piersen’s medical team broke the news that his son Piersen had been shaken at the daycare, which caused massive brain damage and ultimately led to a cerebral palsy diagnosis. This event caused Piersen’s brai...
2022-10-1832 minJoy In The JourneyInspiring Lessons on Infertility & Defeating Cancer with Laura AndersenAnnouncing a pregnancy and bringing a baby into the world can be one of life's most joyful experiences. Yet, according to the CDC, 1 in 5 couples struggle with infertility, and it's a topic many people don't feel comfortable talking about when they're in the middle of it. That's why I invited Laura Andersen to share her story with us today. Laura and her husband struggled with infertility for four years. After years of feeling like they were living alone on an island where they were the only ones going through it, everything changed when they welcomed their beautiful...
2022-10-1136 minJoy In The JourneyHelping Moms with Life After the Loss of a Child with Joy HarrisNavigating infant or pregnancy loss is confusing, heartbreaking, and can feel very lonely. So many things become difficult, including simple questions like “How many kids do you have?” Since October is Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month, I wanted to invite a guest that would be able to help the many families out there who may be walking through life after the loss of a child. I’m thrilled to introduce you to Joy Harris. Joy is a serial entrepreneur and motivational speaker who tragically lost her son, Darien, to stillbirth nearly 20 years ago. Since then...
2022-10-0427 minJoy In The JourneyPaul Cardall on the Healing Power of Music“Our body is made up of water, and music vibrates us.” - Paul Cardall If you've ever had the perfect song start playing on the radio when you needed it most, listened to a song that made you cry, or felt nostalgic as music carried you back in time, then you know just how powerful music can be. I'm beyond delighted to welcome Paul Cardall to the show to have him share his insights on how music can help us heal in times of grief or sorrow. Paul has been endorsed as one of t...
2022-09-2752 minJoy In The JourneySteve Magness on Being Resilient So You Can “Do Hard Things”We’re often told that to be “tough,” we have to push through our pain, show no signs of distress, and simply persevere. But Steve Magness’ newest book, Do Hard Things, challenges that definition and outlines a much more beautiful and useful way to understand what it truly means to “be tough.” And since such a huge aspect of finding joy in our journey is to learn how to embrace the less pleasant moments in our lives, I’m thrilled to have Steve on the podcast to help families dealing with challenging circumstances and slowly build their re...
2022-09-2043 minJoy In The JourneyFrom The Depths of Grief To The Highs of Pure Joy with Heather EarlToday’s episode is a very tender story about loss, and while it might tug at your heartstrings, it’s also an incredibly inspiring story about finding joy and hope within grief. Only three short days after taking her very first child home, Heather Earl noticed a devastating rash on her little newborn, Shealyn. After rushing to the doctor, getting redirected to the children’s ER, and having to wait two agonizing weeks for a diagnosis, her worst nightmare came true. Shealyn was diagnosed with a rare condition called Epidermolysis Bullosa, which causes fragile, blistering skin a...
2022-09-1348 minJoy In The JourneyWithin Darkness, There is Light and Joy Heals with Jennifer Trepanier, M.S.Is it possible to experience incredible joy through moments of extreme pain? Jennifer Trepanier has dedicated her life’s work to bringing happiness into the lives of those going through difficult health journeys. But she is no stranger to hardship herself: having struggled with a rare autoimmune condition her entire life and even facing the prospect of death, Jennifer joined her personal experience with a Masters Degree in psychophysiology (the study of the body and mind) and a Mastery Method Coach Certification to teach others how to navigate their pain. Most importantly, Jennifer ho...
2022-09-0631 min
Kankakee Podcast#51: Mattea’s Joy - Jamie FreedlundMost likely at some point in the last twelve years, you've heard or seen the name Mattea's Joy around town. What exactly is it though? Mattea's Joy is nonprofit organization here in Kankakee County that provides care, connection, and community for families navigating the challenges of having a hospitalized child. Founder, Jamie Freedlund, joins me on this episode of Kankakee Podcast to share the special story behind Mattea's Joy and to remind us to find "Joy in the Journey". Whether that journey is a good or bad one. Mattea's Joy Links: Web...
2022-06-2753 minJoy In The JourneyEmpowering Families and Reducing Hospital Anxiety with Amy CarterWhen you’re in the thick of a hospital journey or visit, even the simplest tasks can leave you feeling disheartened. Suddenly, finding parking, getting food, asking questions, and preparing for the next visit can become overwhelming and daunting. But there are extraordinary professionals out there whose entire career revolves around guiding, comforting, and empowering parents and children during their hospital visits and stays. My guest today, Amy Carter, is one of those amazing people. Amy Carter has been a Child Life Specialist for almost 24 years and works closely with an incredible team at the UC...
2022-06-2144 minJoy In The JourneyHeartwarming Advice For Parents from a NICU Professional PanelWalking into the NICU world for the very first time can feel scary and overwhelming. But with the right support, a little bit of hope, and some expert advice it can turn into a space where you and your family feel heard, supported, and safe. If you or anyone you know is navigating life in the NICU, I hope you’ll share this special episode with them. We brought together a group of wonderful professionals to form our NICU Professional Panel. They address common NICU concerns submitted by our online communities and share encouraging and he...
2022-06-1457 minJoy In The JourneyThe Four Lies Moms Tell Themselves with Dr. Michele ArnoldIn 2005, Dr. Michele Arnold went through a very traumatic loss. Before delivering her daughter Camille, she was told there was no heartbeat at her final OB scan. A few days later, she delivered her stillborn baby girl. But even though life threw one of the toughest challenges at her, Michele has found ways to create something beautiful from grief. She shares her story openly and with a lot of vulnerability, and I’m so thankful to have her on today’s podcast as she offers so much value that can help others find joy in their journey.
2022-06-0735 minJoy In The JourneyNavigating the Emotional Roller Coaster of the NICU with Kelley ThompsonNICU doctors and nurses work tirelessly and passionately to keep babies safe and their families informed. But the experience and uncertainty that comes with it is never easy. Thankfully, there are truly amazing nurses out there that help soften the blow of the experience. And today’s guest is Kelley Thompson, and she is a ray of sunshine to anyone who has had the pleasure of meeting her. Kelley has been a neonatal nurse for the past 10 years and has experienced the NICU on a much more personal level when her own little girl, Isabella, had...
2022-05-3128 minJoy In The JourneyA Home for Hope in Ronald McDonald Houses with RMH CEO, Holly BuckendahlNavigating an illness with a loved one is a journey that requires perseverance, strength, and community. But when you add a hospitalization away from home to the mix, it can truly feel unfathomable. I can certainly relate to this after my own personal experience with Mattea. Thankfully, I had the honor of witnessing firsthand the love, hope, and community that lives within the walls of the Ronald McDonald Houses. It's my privilege to introduce you to Ronald McDonald House Charities' Chicagoland and Northwest Indiana CEO, Holly Buckendahl. For over 25 years as a non-profit leader, the...
2022-05-2431 minJoy In The JourneyThe Inner Strength of the Heart Strong Collective with Jessica LindbergHow can we take the traumatic challenges that life presents us, like a difficult diagnosis or the loss of a child, and create something beautiful? Today's guest is Jessica Lindberg, and her story is a lovely example of what is possible when you let your passion be your guide. Jessica is a mom to four beautiful boys (three living) who tragically lost her oldest son Ethan to congenital heart disease when he was only seven. And if that experience wasn't enough, she is currently navigating the journey of a rare muscular dystrophy diagnosis with her yo...
2022-05-1726 minJoy In The JourneyTeaching Others to See the Beauty in Everything with Nicole CarrIt’s perfectly natural for people to take things for granted from time to time. But when you’re raising a child who is completely blind, today’s guest will tell you that you definitely gain a new perspective and truly see the beauty in everything. Joining me for this inspiring conversation is Nicole Carr. Nicole is a nurse and a beautiful mom to 3 kiddos, Nora, Aubrey, and Mac. Now that she has seen the challenges firsthand, she is driven to change the world on what is possible for the visually impaired. When Mac was born, both of his...
2022-05-1036 minJoy In The JourneyHow Bryce’s Bill is Saving Lives with Joel ClausenToday’s episode is a story of hope, healing, and unfortunately heartbreak. My guest today is Joel Clausen. While this story might be an emotional and difficult one to hear, I hope you’ll get a ton of value as he shares his baby boy’s journey and how their tragedy turned into life saving legislation. When their youngest son, Bryce, was only 6 months old, Joel and his wife Andrea noticed he was experiencing some behavioral changes and developmental delays. His doctors explained that since he had been born a few weeks earlier than expected, these de...
2022-05-0333 minJoy In The JourneyThe Educational Path for Children with Special Needs with Kristi HerschbergerThe journey doesn’t end when your child graduates from the NICU. And when a parent is told that their child has been diagnosed with cerebral palsy, finding an education program that suits their needs is just one step on their educational path. My guest today, Kristi Herschberger, is no stranger to children with special needs; she has dedicated herself to teaching special education for 14 years and cares for her daughter, Karly, who has cerebral palsy. In this episode, she shares the importance of seeking out unique educational paths for our children, and how a dia...
2022-04-2622 minJoy In The JourneyBravely Battling Batten Disease with Amanda BeedleToday's episode comes with a bit of a warning, as this one might tug at your heartstrings a little harder than usual. I hope you'll join me as Amanda Beedle shares her journey with her two little girls. Amanda's daughters, Annabelle and Abigail, were both diagnosed at an early age with an extremely rare genetic disorder called Batten disease. It's so rare that, on average, only 20 children are born each year in the U.S. with this disorder. Before Annabelle's 4th birthday, she had her first seizure. And then they noticed some coordination and language...
2022-04-1935 minJoy In The JourneyThe Journey from the NICU to Ultimate Happiness with Karri FriedenbergerFor NICU parents, watching their child graduate from the NICU feels like an enormous relief! It’s such an important milestone and deserves to be celebrated and cherished. However, sometimes it doesn’t take long before you realize that the journey is far from over. But, if you’re surrounded by the right people, it can also be a very rewarding one filled with hope, strength, and joy. However, sometimes it doesn’t take long before you realize that the journey is far from over. Today’s guest is Karri Friedenberger, and she is no stranger t...
2022-04-1238 minJoy In The JourneyCaring for Caregivers with Jessica RonneIf you are a caregiver of a child with special needs, then you’ll probably relate to the feeling of being overwhelmed and never getting a break. Which begs the question: who is caring for the caregivers? Today’s guest, Jessica Ronne, is a true warrior and inspiration: she is a wife, mother to 8 kids, author, teacher, and founder of a non-profit dedicated to providing respite breaks for special needs caregivers, The Lucas Project. After losing her first husband to a long battle with brain cancer and suddenly becoming a young widow and mom to 4 child...
2022-04-0527 minJoy In The JourneyHow the PreeMe+You App Empowers NICU Parents with Dr. Yaya RenIf you’re a parent with a kiddo in the NICU, wouldn’t it be amazing if there was an app on your phone that could help you understand what to expect and allow you to comfortably get answers to your questions without feeling like a burden to the medical staff? Today’s guest is Dr. Yaya Ren, and with her partner, Dr. Bree Andrews, they have developed an amazing resource for NICU families that will create a shared experience and a connection to the team that is caring for your child. Dr. Yaya Ren is a m...
2022-03-2933 minJoy In The JourneyCultivating Gratitude in the Face of Fear with Stefanie BoyceOne of the most painful questions for parents who have suffered from the loss of a child is, “How many kids do you have?” Not because we don’t want to share the beautiful stories of our children and their journeys, but because sometimes it can be hard to know just how much to share. In today’s episode, I am speaking to Stefanie Boyce, a national speaker, teacher, yoga instructor, and most importantly: an extraordinary mother. Stefanie has taken her story of caregiving and loss and found a way to help parents find beauty and joy in the journey...
2022-03-2236 minJoy In The JourneyConnections, Community & Hope for NICU Parents with Tyler SimoWhat do you do when everything you thought being a parent meant gets turned upside down with one diagnosis? How do you deal with the isolation of being a NICU parent? In today’s episode, I’m speaking with Tyler Simon who works at the University of Chicago Medical Center - which was also where her oldest son Bennett, now five years old, spent the first 4 months of his life. After a fetal MRI discovered abnormalities at just 19 weeks of pregnancy, Tyler and her husband were in complete disbelief when her water broke prematurely at 31 week...
2022-03-1530 minJoy In The JourneyGiving From the Heart with Jacqueline TillmanWhen Jacqueline Tillman's daughter Tiana was just 3 months old, she went into heart failure. After the second trip to the hospital, Tiana was diagnosed with dilated cardiomyopathy, which unfortunately meant that she would need a heart transplant. There is no doubt about how hard it is to wrap your head around the fact that one family needs to suffer a loss to help save your child, especially when your little kiddo is in the NICU. But Jackie and her husband Charles Tillman are certainly paying it forward with their generous spirit. Jackie is a mother of 4 and...
2022-03-0830 minJoy In The JourneyA Survival Guide for NICU Mamas with Dr. Heather EvansWhen a mom has a newborn child in the NICU, every moment and every breath can be stressful. But when you have two preemies in the NICU, those worries are doubled. Today's guest knows exactly what it's like to have two kids in the hospital for several months and has published a survival guide to share her professional advice and what she learned from her own experience. Dr. Heather Evans is a proud mama to her miracle twins, Gavin and Hannah, who have grown from 1.5 lb babies to happy 8-year-old kiddos. Professionally, she's a pelvic health physical...
2022-03-0132 minJoy In The JourneyThe Joy That Comes From Making a Difference with Mary StrenskiI am delighted to welcome Mary Strenski to the podcast as we first met when my daughter, Mattea, was in the hospital. Nurses play such a huge role in supporting parents who have sick kids, and I’m excited to be able to share some words of wisdom from her today. Mary is a Critical Care Nurse at Comers Children’s Hospital and has been a nurse for over 30 years. She started her career in the adult surgical ICU, then pivoted to the PICU, and now she supports nurses at Comers by helping them be the best nurs...
2022-02-2225 minJoy In The JourneyLearning to Love Harder and Laugh Louder with Tommi and AmandaSometimes life deals a hand to you that most people would never choose for themselves, but that doesn't mean that finding joy in your own journey isn’t possible. And today's guests speak to this in a way that is just so beautiful to see. Tommi is a mother of 3 wonderful girls. Her oldest daughter Amanda was diagnosed with a rare form of Spina Bifida, a debilitating and progressive neurological condition, when she was 6 years old. As a result, she has endured dozens of surgeries and many extended hospital visits in her life over the last 23 years. On...
2022-02-1549 minJoy In The JourneySharing The Blessings of Generosity and Joy with Jordan and Nikki ArseneauIt’s not uncommon for a family to experience kindness and generosity when a child is diagnosed with cancer. But when that family finds joy in paying it forward, it’s a pretty incredible thing to see. That’s why I’m so excited to share the journey that Jordan and Nikki Arseneau are on with you today. Their medical journey started a little over a year ago when their 4-year-old, Joy, was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia. And if that wasn’t enough, Nikki also lost her father during this time. With their faith in God and help f...
2022-02-0840 minJoy In The JourneyFinding Joy and a Warm Hug in the NICU with Jen GawelJen Gawel has not only mastered the hardships in her life but puts effort and intention into giving others the tools to master their own challenging paths, and she does it all while oozing joy from every fiber of her being. If you ask Jen about her family, she will tell you that her family is just like everyone else's; they just accommodate a few differences along the way. She's a mom of three kiddos and having spent as much time in the NICU as she has, her attitude and perspectives are incredible. Even though...
2022-02-0143 minJoy In The JourneyMaking the Most of Every Moment with Carrie MeghieI am so grateful and honored to have today’s guest on the podcast. Carrie Meghie has been recognized as one of CNN’s Heroes and is affectionately known as the “parking fairy” through the work she is doing with her foundation. It’s an amazing story and I can’t wait for you to hear it. When you have a child in the NICU, as a parent, the only thing you want to do is be there with them every moment that you can. But spending days, weeks, and months comes at a cost. Carrie knows about these...
2022-01-2526 minJoy In The JourneyCreating Empowering Connections with Cara BelvinSometimes it’s hard to find the strength to move on when you feel like your feet are stuck in cement. Today’s guest knows exactly how that feels and has made it her life mission to make that support more readily available for girls like her⎯ girls that need to feel a little less alone in their community. Cara Belvin is the founder and CEO of the non-profit organization called empowerHER®, a place where girls can come to talk about the oftentimes uncomfortable topic of loss. The foundation was inspired by her mother, who was tak...
2022-01-1834 minJoy In The JourneyHonoring The Life Of Your Child with Jenny KernanMy guest today is Jenny Kernan. She’s a mother of three beautiful children, with two of them at home and one of them in heaven. When they were ready to start a family, she struggled to get pregnant, and decided to take the fertility route. After going through the difficult process of taking follicle stimulating hormone shots, and Clomid, it wasn’t long before she got the great news that she was pregnant, with twins! Everything seemed to be going well until the ultrasound at 20 weeks when her doctor broke the news that one of h...
2022-01-1124 minJoy In The JourneyDulling the Sharp Edges of Grief with Amanda FierceHow do you keep going after losing your child? How do you deal with the grief when life has to continue for not just yourself but also your family? Today, I'm speaking with Amanda Fierce. Amanda is a 5th-grade teacher, mother of three beautiful children, a volunteer for multiple causes, and a huge supporter of Mattea's Joy. At only 23 weeks into her pregnancy, Amanda’s water broke unexpectedly. She held off on her labor for 14 days before finally giving birth to her son Connor. During his stay in the NICU, Connor suffered from an infection, fo...
2022-01-0456 minJoy In The JourneyChange Your Thought Habits, Change Your Life with Amy KempSometimes when you can’t control the circumstances life gives you, you try controlling everything else—something I know I’ve done as a mother. Today’s guest, Amy Kemp, is talking about how sometimes you need to make space for others to do things for you, especially when you’re dealing with difficult moments in life. Amy is a public speaker, and the owner and CEO of Amy Kemp Inc., where she helps leaders and business professionals understand how deeply thought habits impact every part of work and life. She’s a certified Habit Finder Coach...
2021-12-2831 minJoy In The JourneyJoy Harmon on Coping with a Newborn in the NICUToday, I'm speaking with Joy Harmon—a courageous woman who has overcome more than her fair share of hardship. Only 15 weeks into her first pregnancy, Joy had a placental abruption. She underwent a C-section and spent four months watching over her daughter in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. By the time her first daughter was two years old, they had their second little girl, who also spent time in the NICU. And if life wasn't challenging enough, Joy was also diagnosed with breast cancer years later. This life-changing experience led to her non-profit organization, Bringing Jo...
2021-12-2144 minJoy In The JourneySilver Linings: A Life of Gratitude with Kim PiggushIt’s hard to allow other people in on your journey through life, especially for the difficult moments. No one knows this better than today’s guest, Kim Piggush. She’s on a mission to spread cancer awareness through public speaking as well as mentoring others through their battles with the disease. Kim is a wife, mother of two beautiful girls, and a 2-time cancer survivor. She’s currently the Chief Operating Officer at S.A. Piggush Financial Consultants and has a previous background at K.M.P. Coaching & Consulting, her own coaching company...
2021-12-1427 minJoy In The JourneyOn Loan, From God with Annie KiddIt’s so hard to conquer your fears and give yourself over to God, especially on the hard days. And my guest today has a lifetime of experiences that I know will be very meaningful to anyone who is facing similar challenges. In today’s episode, we have the lovely Annie Kidd. Annie is a mother of two, and a nurse of circumstance who went through 38 years of caring for a child with five different heart defects—and she’s thankful for every day that God gives her. Her daughter, Courtney, who had seven surgeries (includin...
2021-12-0751 minJoy In The JourneyTurning Your Pain Into Purpose with Lorna WalkerIt’s so hard to know what to expect as a parent, and even harder when your child has medical issues that were never on your radar. Today, we have the courageous Lorna Walker joining us on our very first interview of the podcast, to talk all about how to maneuver the stress, depression, fear, and setbacks that come with having a critically sick kid. Lorna is a blogger of Walk This Way, and author of Trach Free for P: How One Little Boy's Life was Spared to Impact Countless Others. In our discussion, she re...
2021-11-2955 minJoy In The JourneyWelcome to Joy In The Journey with Jamie FreedlundWelcome to the Joy In the Journey podcast! My name is Jamie Freedlund, and I’m the host of the show and Co-Founder of Mattea’s Joy, a non-profit organization that helps families with hospitalized children. I know firsthand what it means to be the parent of a sick kid, and the challenges that go with it, as my daughter, Mattea Joy, was born with several severe medical complications. My husband and I were given a very small chance that Mattea would survive at birth. Thankfully, we were able to share nine and a half wonde...
2021-11-2912 min
Changing Lives Selling KnivesJamie Freedlund - Joy In The JourneyJamie Freedlund is the co-founder of Mattea’s Joy, a non-profit committed to bringing Joy in the Journey to families with sick kids. As a self proclaimed “joy influencer”, she strives to inspire others to seek more joy in their lives despite the challenges and circumstances around them. Jamie is also the CFO for Turn-Key Environmental and Special Waste Disposal; family businesses she has had the pleasure of helping grow over the past 15 years. Her favorite sources of joy in her life include her family, baking cupcakes, and an outdoor run with a stellar podcast. To get access...
2021-06-0240 min