Shows
The Lucky Few312. Ellie Goldstein On Celebrity Dance CompetitionEllie Goldstein is the first person with Down syndrome to ever be on the cover of British Vogue. She’s also the first person with DS to ever be on the show, “Strictly Come Dancing” — basically UK’s equivalent of “Dancing With The Stars!” Naturally, the internet has A LOT of opinions about it. Today we’re diving into a Facebook post full of ableist comments disguised as empathy. And we’re wondering: Would these comments be made about a celebrity without an intellectual disability?What is the difference between supporting someone with DS and infantilizing them...
2025-10-1440 minThe Lucky Few311. Down Syndrome Awareness Month Goals!Welcome to a new season of the podcast and happy Down Syndrome Awareness Month! Or should we say DS Acceptance Month?! The advocacy language has definitely changed over the years. Lets talk about it. Here’s what you can expect this week:How did DSAM become a thing? (Huge shout out to all the advocates who blazed a trail back in the 80s!) What are we doing to celebrate this month? (Hint: not much!)What is the difference between wanting to improve our kids lives and wanting to ta...
2025-10-0738 minThe Lucky Few309. Myofunctional Therapy for Individuals w/Down Syndrome (ft. Irene Iskander)Having a child with Down syndrome means you’re always learning about something new! And today’s topic is: oral facial myofunctional therapy.. a technique used to improve the way our mouth and face muscles work! We have Irene Iskander (dental hygienist + lucky mama) on the show today to answer all of our questions:Why is mouth breathing so common amongst individuals with DS? What are the long term effects of mouth breathing?What can we do at each age to strengthen mouth and facial muscles?How is myofunctional therapy different than speech ther...
2025-09-0233 minThe Lucky Few308. A Conversation About The Telepathy Tapes PodcastFriends! Have you listened to The Telepathy Tapes Podcast? In this show, creator and host Ky Dickens explores the “profound abilities of non-speakers with autism - individuals who have long been misunderstood and underestimated.” Let’s talk about it:Have we experienced a shared consciousness with our own children? Is telepathy possible?Why are people having such a hard time believing the stories from the autistic individuals and their families who claim to communicate with telepathy?How has the disability community responded to the show?We don’t know a lot fo...
2025-08-2646 minThe Lucky FewBONUS: Sibling Bonds, Storytelling, and Chickens (Yes, Chickens!) with Melissa HartWhat happens when you mix a fierce sibling bond, a deep love for storytelling, writing, advocacy and a chicken named Rosemary? You get today’s episode of The Lucky Few Podcast! We’re joined by the incredible Melissa Hart, author, educator, journalist and big sister to Mark, her brother who has Down syndrome.This episode is full of heart, humor, and hope—plus a reminder that inclusion starts at home and ripples out into the stories we tell.Melissa shares her powerful journey growing up alongside her brother, the outdated and harmful messages her family faced...
2025-06-2544 minThe Lucky Few297. Extracurricular Activities and Inclusion: How to Make it Work For Our Kids with DSPicture this: your child with Down syndrome tells you they want to play a sport. You sign them up for the local team, drop them off at practice, and pick them up without any difficulties. Everything goes smoothly… But that’s not always reality is it? Lets break down the complexities of extracurricular activities today:How to ask for accommodations that promote safety, respect, and inclusionSeparate programs designed for people with disabilities.. and what to do when they’re not as inclusive as they seemHow to manage our own expectations of our ch...
2025-04-2941 minThe Lucky Few291. New Season, Same Us: Life Updates & What’s Coming!Here we are with a NEW season of The Lucky Few Podcast! Join us for this first episode back for some big life updates!From Mercedes: mother-daughter bonding with Sunny, braces, medical thingsFrom Micha: potty training for Ace, communication device debates, new therapiesFrom Heather: her mother’s health, extracurriculars.. dances, musical theater, basketballFrom the pod: BONUS episodes that you can access as a member of The Lucky Crew!Join THE LUCKY CREW for $4.99 a month for bonus episodes and MORE.Participate in the NDSS Racing for 3.21 challenge on World Down Syndrome Day. Sign up to participate from wher...
2025-03-1843 minThe Lucky Few290: Redefining Resolutions For Growth, Not Perfection (w/Amy Julia & Penny Becker)Happy New Year friends! Join us as we welcome back Amy Julia Becker and her daughter Penny for an inspiring conversation on redefining resolutions for growth instead of perfection. We’re talking about the power of celebrating small wins, how caregivers and families can support loved ones with Down syndrome in setting and achieving goals, and the transformative lessons we’ve learned from goal-setting with our children. Penny also offers her perspective on staying motivated, what success looks like to her, and what she hopes to accomplish in the year ahead. Whether you’re setting goals for yourself or alongs...
2024-12-3154 minThe Lucky Few289. It's time for Good News! The Holiday Edition.It’s Christmas Eve, and whether you’re wrapping up last-minute gifts, squeezing in a classic Christmas movie, or running errands around town, we’re thrilled to be keeping you company! Today, we’re diving into something extra special to celebrate the season—a deeper look at the good news in our lives.
In the Christmas tradition, there’s a powerful moment when the angel declares the arrival of Jesus as good news. Inspired by this, we’re dedicating today’s episode to celebrating all kinds of good news: the joy of Christmas, the incredible kids with Down syndrome wh...
2024-12-2451 minThe Lucky Few288 A Christmas Movie for all: with Mia Armstrong and Julia BarnettToday, we’re bringing you some Holiday cheer as we head to the fictional and festive town of New Hope, TX. I have the honor and thrill of speaking with Julia Barnett, the writer and director of the new holiday movie A Christmas in New Hope, and Mia Armstrong, one of the lead actors who plays Charlie, the daughter of a single mom fighting to save her home before Christmas. Mia, who has Down syndrome, shines in a role where her diagnosis takes a back seat, showcasing her as a fully realized character. Join us as we dive into the...
2024-12-1732 minThe Lucky Few287. Embracing “Good Enough” HolidaysHow do you handle the grief that comes with unmet holiday expectations? As we dive into the holiday season, many of us wrestle with the dream of a “perfect” celebration that doesn’t match reality. In this episode, we’re having an honest conversation about releasing those high expectations, navigating the challenges and grief that come with letting go of the idealized holiday image, and discovering joy in what is rather than what could have been. From coping with unplanned moments to redefining traditions and setting boundaries with family, we’re exploring how to create a meaningful, authentic holiday season tha...
2024-12-1053 minThe Lucky Few285. The World We Deserve: LIVE From The NDSS Adult SummitFriends, we had an epic time at the National Down Syndrome Adult Summit in Costa Mesa, CA! It’s a weekend of connection and educational sessions on a variety of topics that address adulthood and aging for the disability community. We had the honor of helping to launch the NDSS Town 21 PSA and spoke with Town 21 news anchor Jessica Kishner about her role in the video, her passion for music, and her dreams. We also got the chance to talk with NDSS President Kandi Pickard and the creator of the NDSS Adult Summit, Jadene Ransdell, about the importance of dr...
2024-11-261h 06The Lucky Few284. Why Does Inclusion for People with Down Syndrome Have to be a Distant Dream?We’ve talked about impactful PSAs that the Down syndrome community has put out over the years. Today we’re talking about the most recent PSA from our friends over at the National Down Syndrome Society, if you haven’t seen it already follow the link in our show notes and go watch their powerful, important, and impactful message and listen to some behind-the-scenes interviews on this weeks episode! We’re chatting with the president of NDSS Kandi Pickard, an amazing couple Jeremy and Audrey featured in the wedding scene, and Jamie Weitzman whose kiddos Hannah and Jedidiah were featured...
2024-11-191h 17The Lucky Few283. Navigating Tube Feeding With Down Syndrome (w/Dr. Lauren Fiechtner)Nutrition is key to a child's development, but for some children with Down syndrome, feeding challenges make it difficult to get the nutrition they need. That’s where tube feeding comes in. Today, we’re chatting with Dr. Lauren Fiechtner, Director of Nutrition at Mass General for Children, to talk about the different types of feeding tubes, why they are sometimes necessary, and the unique feeding challenges that children with Down syndrome may face. We’re chatting about when tube feeding is typically used, the emotional and physical challenges parents may experience, and how feeding therapies and supportive resources can ma...
2024-11-1236 minThe Lucky Few282. Adoption, Purpose, and the Founding of RODS Heroes (w/Brady Murray)Happy first week of November AND National Adoption Month! Today we’re thrilled to welcome Brady Murray, the passionate founder of RODS Heroes. Brady’s nonprofit has helped hundreds of children with Down syndrome find loving homes around the world. As a father of eleven—including two children with Down syndrome—Brady shares his personal journey with adoption, from being adopted himself to adopting seven of his children from around the globe. Hear the inspiring story behind how a triathlon became the seed for RODS Heroes, the miracles he’s witnessed along the way, and why he believes that when we in...
2024-11-0553 minThe Lucky Few281. Can A Person With Down Syndrome Shift Narratives? (w/ Hilary Gauld & Kate Herron)This month we’ve celebrated Down Syndrome Awareness Month with episodes based on popular Google search topics! Today we’re joined by award-winning photographer Hilary Gauld and advocate Kate Herron for this episode all about answering the question: Can a person with Down syndrome Shift Narratives? In 2014, Hilary and Kate collaborated on a fundraising calendar featuring Kate's 10-month-old son, Caleb, for the Waterloo Wellington Down Syndrome Society (WWDSS). What began as a local project quickly grew into a decade-long advocacy journey, evolving into an internationally recognized series that challenges stereotypes and represents the Down syndrome community in meaningful, thought-provoking ways...
2024-10-2955 minThe Lucky Few280. Can A Person With Down Syndrome Find Community & Belonging?This month we’re celebrating Down Syndrome Awareness Month with episodes based on popular Google search topics! On today’s episode, we’re answering the question: Can a person with Down syndrome find community & belonging? Today’s conversation is sparked by a recent blog post of Heather’s on why her daughter Macy didn’t attend homecoming this year, we’re chatting about what it truly means for someone with Down syndrome to feel a sense of belonging in school and their wider community. What can we all do to ensure inclusion happens? How can we help build bridges where isolatio...
2024-10-2258 minThe Lucky Few278. Can A Person With Down Syndrome Travel The World? (w/ Erik & Emily Orton)This month we’re celebrating Down Syndrome Awareness Month with episodes based on popular Google search topics! Today we’re joined by Erik & Emily Orton for this episode all about answering the question: Can a person with Down syndrome travel the world? They’re sharing their incredible story of sailing the Caribbean, with their family of seven and how their daughter Lily, who has Down syndrome, has inspired them to break boundaries, live without limits, and travel the globe! We’re chatting about caregiver fatigue, challenging conventional ideas of therapies, parenting our kids with and without Down syndrome, and so much m...
2024-10-081h 03The Lucky Few277. Can A Person With Down Syndrome Vote? (w/Alex Bolden & Genevieve Thompson)Happy Down Syndrome Awareness Month!! We’re celebrating this month with episodes based on popular Google search topics about people with Down syndrome. Today we’re kicking off the celebration with Alex Bolden and Genevieve Thompson from the National Down Syndrome Society as we answer one of the most searched questions: Can a person with Down syndrome vote? Alex shares his experience voting for the first time, tips for deciding who to vote for, and resources like NDSS's free checklist and values inventory to help voters prepare. We also discuss how parents and caregivers can support their loved ones in t...
2024-10-0127 minThe Lucky Few276. What Can't People With Down Syndrome Do?We’re a week away from the start of Down Syndrome Awareness Month! Today we’re kicking off our celebration early with a conversation about common misconceptions people still have about Down syndrome. We’ll be celebrating next month by talking to self-advocates, organizations, and parents who are breaking down the stereotypes of some of the most Googled misconceptions about Down syndrome. We’re sharing our thoughts on the CoorsDown PSA ‘Assume That I Can’ featuring Madison Tevlin and how campaigns like this work to shift narratives. We’re chatting about how knowing and loving a person with Down syndrome has s...
2024-09-241h 05The Lucky Few275. Advocacy In Action: Amanda Owen on Building a Strong CommunityToday, we’re excited to chat with Amanda Owen, the founder and executive director of Puzzle Pieces! Amanda has dedicated her life to supporting individuals with intellectual disabilities—a passion deeply rooted in her own family’s experiences. She’s sharing her experience growing up with a sibling with disabilities and how the dynamic has evolved as an adult that led to her journey of starting a non-profit. We’re chatting about having conversations around disability with our kids, how to cultivate meaningful and impactful friendships with people with disabilities, employment for adults with disabilities, group homes, and so much more...
2024-09-171h 06The Lucky Few274. Are We Losing the True Meaning of Volunteering?Friends, you know we ask all the questions…even if we don’t have all the answers! Today, we're diving into a topic that hits close to home for many of us—volunteering. We're asking some tough questions: What happens when volunteering becomes more about extra credit or resume-building? How does this culture impact our efforts to shift harmful narratives? How can we make sure we teach our kids that volunteering isn’t just for show or awards? We’re chatting about how to make sure our volunteering efforts are intentional and meaningful, and our personal experiences that have made a mea...
2024-09-1052 minThe Lucky Few273. Breaking Down Barriers: The Parent’s Role In IEP Success (w/Ashley Barlow)We’re excited to have Ashley Barlow back on the podcast today! We’re discussing the power of parental involvement in IEPs and why it’s so important for your child’s educational success. Ashley breaks down her research and shares personal stories from her journey with her son Jack, who has Down syndrome. This episode is packed with practical advice on how you can take an active role in your child's education, navigate challenges, and become a stronger advocate. Whether you’re facing challenges or just want to ensure your child’s needs are met, this episode is full of advi...
2024-09-031h 04The Lucky Few272. What Do We Wish We Knew Before Our First IEP Meeting?Today, we're taking a trip down memory lane to revisit our very first IEP meetings! Let's be honest—those initial meetings can be a whirlwind of emotions: overwhelming, confusing, and sometimes even a bit intimidating. As we reflect on our experiences, we’ll dive into the questions we wish we had asked, the support we didn’t realize we needed, and the valuable lessons we’ve learned along the way. Whether you’re preparing for your very first IEP meeting or you’re a seasoned pro, we hope our stories bring you comfort, knowing you're not alone in this journey. And...
2024-08-271h 03The Lucky Few270. IEP Success: How to Plan, Communicate, and Collaborate (w/April Rehrig)We’re excited to have April Rehrig, founder of Rise Educational Advocacy and Consulting, on this week! With over 20 years of experience as an elementary school teacher and school psychologist, April has spent her career empowering parents and students to achieve the best educational outcomes. From understanding the IEP’s purpose to advocating for your child’s unique strengths, April provides actionable tips on communicating effectively, collaborating with school teams, and resolving conflicts. Whether it’s your first IEP or your fifth, April’s advice will help you navigate the process confidently and clearly. Friends, we were taking notes this entir...
2024-08-131h 03The Lucky Few269. What Are We Really Measuring?: Redefining Worth & The IQ Test (w/Pepper Stetler)Today we’re excited to talk to Pepper Stetler about her new book A Measure of Intelligence: One Mother's Reckoning with the IQ Test. She’s sharing her journey of questioning the authority and relevance of the IQ test after learning that her daughter, Louisa, who has Down syndrome, would be required to take it regularly to receive support in school. We’re chatting about the unsettling history of the IQ test and how its contributed to everything from ableism to terms used by schoolyard bullies. Join us as we dive deep into this important conversation about how we define...
2024-08-0652 minThe Lucky Few268. First Responders and Teacher of Patience: A Lesson in UnderstandingWe’re thrilled to have Carmen Vincent and Tom and Tina Felter join us to discuss their powerful Emmy award-winning documentary, Teacher of Patience. This film showcases the incredible journey of the Felter family and their daughter, Emily (who makes a surprise appearance!), who has Down syndrome. Tom shares the story behind developing The Emily Talk, a crucial presentation aimed at educating first responders about disabilities to prevent unnecessary tragedies, and how it led to meeting Carmen. We’re chatting about the process of making a documentary, their hopes for the film, and how it can impact the broader conv...
2024-07-3058 minThe Lucky Few267. What Is It Like To Have A Sibling With Down Syndrome? (Featuring Our Kids!)Friends, the last two weeks we got to hear from some amazing siblings. Today we hope you’ll join us for a very special episode, we're sitting down with our kids to talk about what it's like to have a sibling with Down syndrome. Micha chats with Ace’s older brother Brooks (13), Mercedes sits down with Sunny’s younger brothers Rhodes (9) and Shepard (7), and Heather with Macy & August’s sister Truly (13)! They’re sharing the things they love to do with their siblings, the advice they’d give other kids who have a brother or sister with Down syndrome, and so much...
2024-07-2359 minThe Lucky Few266. From Sibling Love to Community Change (w/Taylor Gardner Chaney)Today we’re chatting with another amazing sibling! Taylor Gardner Chaney is a passionate entrepreneur whose younger sister with Down syndrome has influenced her understanding of disabilities and guided her career choices. Taylor discusses viewing life as a series of seasons and how focusing on the "why" behind her work helps her push through challenging times. We explore the realization that siblings with disabilities often don't have the same choices and opportunities as those without, and how this awareness has shaped Taylor's perspective. She’s sharing her journey advocating and her “why” behind starting The Garden Foundation LV, which provides...
2024-07-161h 05The Lucky Few265. Brotherly Love: From Childhood Adventures to Adult Dreams (w/Matthew & Thomas Von Der Ahe)Today, we're thrilled to chat with Matthew Von Der Ahe, known for his roles in 'Champions' and other films. Joined by his brother Tommy, they reminisce about childhood, explore their evolving adult relationship, and discuss maintaining their strong bond despite living apart. Matthew, an actor recognized for his work in 'The Secret Lives of Dorks' and 'Code Black,' is also active in the arts community and charity initiatives. Meanwhile, Tommy, a robotics enthusiast and former Loyola High School rower, now lives in Dallas, staying close with Matthew through FaceTime and visits. Their supportive dynamic shines as they share...
2024-07-0949 minThe Lucky Few264. Healing and Hope: Navigating Down Syndrome Regression Disorder (w/ Dr. Santoro & Dr. Quinn)Today, we're chatting about the mysterious and challenging world of Down Syndrome Regression Disorder (DSRD). This condition has left many parents searching for answers as they witness profound changes in their children. Joining us are two leading experts, Dr. Jonathan Santoro and Dr. Eileen Quinn, who will share their insights and experiences from the frontlines of diagnosing and treating DSRD. Dr. Santoro serves as the Director of Neuroimmunology and Demyelinating Disorders Program and Director of Research for the Neurologic Institute at Children’s Hospital Los Angeles. He also has clinical research expertise in DSRD. Dr. Quinn serves as the Me...
2024-07-0259 minThe Lucky Few263. Designs that Dance: A Tale of Friendship and Creativity (w/Dance Happy Designs)Today, we’re chatting with the creative minds behind Dance Happy Designs! Emily Scott is here to chat with us about the power of inclusive entrepreneurship, friendship, and creativity and share some of co-founder Julia’s thoughts on their friendship and partnership, plus what her favorite design is! Emily shares their experiences creating high-quality, amazing designs and fostering an inclusive movement that centers and honors people with disabilities. Hear about their achievements, including being named a Tory Burch Foundation fellow, securing deals with Nordstrom and Aerie, and their commitment to collaborating with the Down Syndrome community. Plus, we hear abou...
2024-06-2555 minThe Lucky Few261. Fearless Together: Lessons In Bravery, Hope, & Resilience (w/David and Andrew Olshine)Join us for a special Father’s Day episode featuring the dynamic father-son duo, David and Andrew Olshine! They share their inspiring journey of writing and publishing the book Fearless As A Honey Badger, Brave Like A Wolverine. Learn about the lessons they've learned, the message of hope and resilience they aim to share with the world, and how Andrew’s remarkable recovery from Guillain-Barré syndrome inspired him to write the book. They also discuss the inspiration behind the powerful quotes included in the book, drawn from movies, Eleanor Roosevelt, Nelson Mandela, and Bible verses. Enjoy an excerpt read by An...
2024-06-1147 minThe Lucky Few260. What Did We Learn From This School Year?Cheers to making it through another school year! Join us as we share our experiences, celebrate the successes, and learn from the challenges of the 2023-2024 school year. Discussing everything from what types of supports and settings worked for our kids, to the injustices in our education system and the reality of our kids still leading the way in 2024. We hope you’ll join us as we reflect on the good and the hard another school year has brought. Remember friends, we’re cheering you on every step of the way!
SHOW NOTES
2024-06-041h 10The Lucky Few259. Home Is Our Classroom: Homeschooling A Child With Down SyndromeFriends, we know there are so many ways to learn, join us today as Mercedes chats with fellow homeschool mama Rachel Prescott about what it's like to homeschool kiddos with (and without!) Down syndrome. Mercedes has homeschooled her daughter Sunflower who has Down syndrome and her three boys for over five years now, Rachel who has twin six-year-old daughters Nettie and Lottie who have Down syndrome, and two boys ages 8 and 10. They share what an average homeschool day looks like for them, the benefits they’ve seen for their families, resources they’ve found helpful, and so much more! Learn...
2024-05-281h 00The Lucky Few258. Unlocking Potential: Strategies For Every Learner With Down Syndrome (w/Mrs. Brown)Friends, we’re so excited to be joined by Mrs. Brown today, you’ve heard us mention her many times over the years! She has developed a successful and innovative program that teaches reading and other academic skills to learners ages three to adult. We learned about her passion and gift for teaching individuals with Down syndrome in 2018 and had her on the show during our first season. Today, she’s back to talk about her program, “So Happy To Learn,” to share memorable teaching moments, give us tips and strategies for every learner, and so much more! We know we’re...
2024-05-2156 minThe Lucky Few257. Brother Do You Love Me?: A Journey of Resilience and Repair (w/Manni & Reuben Coe)Friends, today we have Manni and Reuben Coe, two remarkable brothers from the UK, who are here to share their deeply moving journey and new book, brother. do. you. love. me. Their story is one of extraordinary resilience, heartwarming repair, and the profound rediscovery of brotherly love. These magical brothers remind us of the power of love and resilience. Their story is not just about overcoming obstacles; it's about finding strength in vulnerability, embracing hope in the face of adversity, and discovering the true meaning of brotherhood. This book and interview truly filled our hearts to the brim, grab a...
2024-05-141h 12The Lucky Few256. Celebrating Motherhood, Advocacy, & Community (w/Black Down Syndrome Association)Friends, we put, “I’m A Really Good Mom” on a t-shirt because we know moms doubt this truth about themselves daily. Today in honor of Mother’s Day we’re celebrating the importance of community, friendship, and advocacy with our friends Kelli Caughman and Crystal Lotterberry! Kelli & Crystal are the founders of the Black Down Syndrome Association and they’re here to have an unfiltered conversation about the messy and beautiful parts of being a mama! We're chatting about how Down syndrome has influenced our perspective on life and motherhood, our advice for those feeling overwhelmed, what we shouldn’t ha...
2024-05-071h 07The Lucky Few255. A Haircut Beyond The Chair w/Vernon JacksonFriends, we’re so excited to have barber Vernon Jackson on the show today! In his barbershop and salon in Ohio, haircuts are more than just a service—they're an act of love and understanding. Through his viral program, The Gifted Event, Vernon provides free haircuts to children with disabilities, offering them patience, empathy, and a sense of belonging. A lifelong creative with a passion for serving others, he’s committed to seeing The Gifted Event continue to expand across the country and world, making barbershops and salons a safe and inclusive space for everyone. More than just a barber...
2024-04-3057 minThe Lucky Few254. The Next Step: Navigating Healthcare Transitions for Individuals with Down Syndrome (w/ Dr. Emily Johnson)254. The Next Step: Navigating Healthcare Transitions for Individuals with Down Syndrome (w/ Dr. Emily Johnson)
Today, we’re chatting about navigating healthcare transitions with Dr. Emily Johnson, a dedicated advocate and physician specializing in the healthcare needs of individuals with Down syndrome. We discuss the importance of starting the transition process early, the challenges families may face, and the key considerations for a successful transition. Dr. Johnson also shares her personal experience as a mother and sister, to individuals with Down syndrome, and how her personal experiences have shaped her career as a physician. Friends, this episode wi...
2024-04-2351 minThe Lucky Few253. What If You Don’t Feel “Lucky”?What does it mean to feel “lucky” to have a child with Down syndrome? We’re having a candid conversation about the evolving meaning of “lucky” within our community and personal journeys. Through the challenges and the joys, we know that things like toxic positivity and social media can leave us struggling to feel “lucky.” We’re sharing our thoughts, experiences, and some feedback from one of Heather’s social media posts on what “lucky” in The Lucky Few has come to mean. Join the conversation and share your experiences, perspectives, and advice on reframing the narrative around parenting a child with Down synd...
2024-04-161h 03The Lucky Few252. Planning For The Future: Involving Siblings In The Decision-Making ProcessWe’re so excited to have Phillip Clark back on the show, he’s the founder of ENABLE Special Needs Planning and is here to chat with us about involving siblings in the guardianship and decision-making process. Phillip shares the importance of having open conversations early on with siblings about guardianship and gives advice about getting the conversation started. He dives into the differences between guardianship and supported decision-making and the importance of personalizing decisions for each individual’s needs. Phillip shares his journey and experience with his sister, Sarah, who has Down syndrome, emphasizing how beneficial it has been f...
2024-04-0945 minThe Lucky Few251. Rethinking What It Means To Be “Blessed” (w/AUTHOR Micha Boyett)You know and love her as the bubbly blonde that breaks into song on nearly every episode, today our girl Micha Boyett isn’t just The Lucky Few Podcast host, she’s our guest!! Join us in celebrating her new book Blessed Are The Rest Of Us (available April 9th!)! We’re chatting about her journey of writing this book, and how she chose to write more than just a memoir. What does it mean to be “blessed”? What makes us worthy? What makes life good? Micha shares how her journey with Ace’s Down syndrome and Autism diagnosis made her see...
2024-04-0259 minThe Lucky Few250. Who Has The Right To Use Down Syndrome Or Disability As A Punch Line?Friends, we had another hot topic in our group text that we knew we needed to bring on the pod to have with all of you! Today we’re chatting about the February 25th episode of “Saturday Night Live” with a guest host who used his niece and her Down syndrome diagnosis as a punch line to his set. We’re talking about our reactions and the larger conversation: who has the right to use Down syndrome and disability as a joke or punch line? Join us as we discuss the discomfort when jokes are made for an audience not conn...
2024-03-2655 minThe Lucky Few249. One Million Reasons To Celebrate….The Lucky Few Podcast LIVE!For nearly 250 episodes we’ve had educational, encouraging, and meaningful conversations amplifying voices and shifting narratives for individuals with Down syndrome. Over the last 6 years, we’ve tackled topics on education, health & wellness, accessibility, stereotypes, legal rights, media representation, advocacy, and so much more! We were even recognized with the 2023 Media Award at the National Down Syndrome Congress Convention! We’ve had so many great moments but the best part of this podcast is being part of this one-in-a-million community!
March 8th we got to celebrate LIVE in San Diego, California! It was so special getting to meet o...
2024-03-201h 04
The Lucky Few249. One Million Reasons To Celebrate….The Lucky Few Podcast LIVE!For nearly 250 episodes we’ve had educational, encouraging, and meaningful conversations amplifying voices and shifting narratives for individuals with Down syndrome. Over the last 6 years, we’ve tackled topics on education, health & wellness, accessibility, stereotypes, legal rights, media representation, advocacy, and so much more! We were even recognized with the 2023 Media Award at the National Down Syndrome Congress Convention! We’ve had so many great moments but the best part of this podcast is being part of this one-in-a-million community!
March 8th we got to celebrate LIVE in San Diego, California! It was so special getting to meet o...
2024-03-191h 04The Lucky Few248. Everything No One Tells You About Parenting A Disabled Child (w/Kelley Coleman)We’re so excited to welcome feature film executive turned author and disability advocate, Kelley Coleman to the show! Her book Everything No One Tells You About Parenting a Disabled Child: Your Guide to the Essential Systems, Services, and Support releases TODAY!! Friends, this book is like gold, it provides the kind of support and confidence we all need to navigate and understand the complex systems, services, and supports no matter what diagnosis our kids have. It’s a resource we’ll be looking to for years to come, providing us with helpful questions, checklists, and ways to access servic...
2024-03-1258 minThe Lucky Few245. Can An Advocate Get It Wrong Sometimes?Friends, you know we don’t shy away from asking the hard questions; today we’re diving into a complex one: Can an advocate get it wrong sometimes? We discuss the balance of advocating and learning, the foundation of a good advocate, and how humility shapes our advocacy journey. We explore the responsibility and journey of advocating for those with Down syndrome, and why being a listener and learner is key to effective advocacy. How long do you have to be part of something to be an advocate? What is the foundation of a good advocate? What happens if you...
2024-02-211h 01The Lucky FewThrowback: Poet, Author, “Levitator Of Language”: Sid Ghosh (w/Mom Dr. Vaish Sarathy)Throwback Episode 229: Poet, Author, “Levitator Of Language”: Sid Ghosh (w/Mom Dr. Vaish Sarathy - Originally aired 10/17/23)
Happy Down Syndrome Awareness Month, friends!! We’re celebrating BIG this month with some incredible self-advocates chatting about everything from entrepreneurship to marriage! Today, we’re excited to have poet, author, and “levitator of language,” Sid Ghosh on the show! He describes himself as, “just your autistic boy next door with Down syndrome!” His Mom, Dr. Vaish Sarathy joins us as Sid’s communication partner and also shares their journey of using spelling to communicate with the world. This incred...
2024-01-1154 minThe Lucky FewThrowback: Nurturing Meaningful Connections With Our KidsThrowback Episode 205: Nurturing Meaningful Connections With Our Kids (Originally aired 5/9/23)
Happy Mother’s Day, friends!! On this week’s episode we’re celebrating with a candid conversation about connecting with your child with Down syndrome! We know how important making meaningful connections with our kids is, today we’re talking all about nurturing those connections. What we’re doing to develop the relationships with our kiddos, learning new ways to give and receive love, and so much more! And we might even have a surprise performance by none other than our very own Micha Boyett perf...
2024-01-0951 minThe Lucky Few240. Ready To Slay Another YearFriends, we're kicking off the new year with a bang! In our exciting sixth-season premiere, join us as we dive into the festivities, reflections, and dreams that come with the arrival of 2024.
We're sharing our favorite traditions and bidding farewell to everything we left behind in 2023. Ever wondered about our New Year's Eve and New Year’s Day shenanigans? We spill the beans on the NYC ball drop, the bathroom dilemmas, and why we've never braved the waiting game for those glittering lights.
Join us as we delve into our goals for 2024, both for our fa...
2024-01-0251 minThe Lucky Few233. Celebrating The Season: 2023 Holiday Gift GuideOprah’s favorite things are legendary, just like our gift guide- prepare to unwrap some magic with our 2023 gift ideas! We’ve got some rad ideas for everyone on your list from gifts for kiddos, grandparents, spouses, teachers, and more! Friends, we’ve scoured the corners of creativity and combed through countless options to find the perfect gifts for this years list. From functional, to educational, to downright stylish, and something to wrap it all up with, we’ve got you covered. You know we can’t resist some fun holiday stories with memories of the worst gifts we’ve ever rece...
2023-11-1446 minThe Lucky Few229. Poet, Author, “Levitator Of Language”: Sid Ghosh (w/Mom Dr. Vaish Sarathy)Happy Down Syndrome Awareness Month, friends!! We’re celebrating BIG this month with some incredible self-advocates chatting about everything from entrepreneurship to marriage! Today, we’re excited to have poet, author, and “levitator of language,” Sid Ghosh on the show! He describes himself as, “just your autistic boy next door with Down syndrome!” His Mom, Dr. Vaish Sarathy joins us as Sid’s communication partner and also shares their journey of using spelling to communicate with the world. This incredible sixteen-year-old is the author of two chapbooks: Give a Book and Proceedings of the Full Moon Rotary Club. It’s a unique oppor...
2023-10-1756 minThe Lucky Few227. French Fries, Modeling, & Meeting The Vice President (w/Ronnie “The Fry Guy” & Sister LaTasha)Happy Down Syndrome Awareness Month, friends!! We’re celebrating BIG this month with some incredible self-advocates chatting about everything from entrepreneurship to marriage! We’re excited to have entrepreneur, model, and french fry expert, Ronnie Brown aka “The Fry Guy” on the show to celebrate with us! He’s a wrestling enthusiast that you’ll find at the Crossfit gym in his spare time. After having a feeding tube for six years, it was love at first bite when he tried his first fry! Along with his sister LaTasha, Ronnie started selling fries in 2020 at a local festival and today they s...
2023-10-0351 minThe Lucky Few222. Summer RecapFriends, can you believe we’re already heading into Fall?! We’ve had a busy summer full of adventures! Today, we’re catching everyone up on all the things we’ve been up to the last few months, from vacations to camps to the NDSC Convention. We’re chatting about all our summer fun! We share some favorite moments from seeing and meeting so many friends at the NDSC Convention. We celebrate being recognized with the Media Award at the 51st National Down Syndrome Congress Awards. All of our kids went to camps this summer, we chat about how we chose e...
2023-08-2952 minThe Lucky Few211. Connecting, Supporting, & Balancing It All (ft. The Husbands!)Dads, father figures, this one’s for you! Today The Lucky Few Dads are taking over to chat about nurturing the connections with their kiddos with Down syndrome and what this journey of fatherhood has taught them so far. Josh, Andy, and Chris share what they’d tell their younger selves and how they’ve grown as fathers so far. Some of the changes they’ve made in their careers and family dynamics that have benefited their families. How important it is to normalize asking for support from friends and family. Looking for opportunities to get involved with their kiddos...
2023-06-1347 minThe Lucky Few206. Nurturing Meaningful Connections With Our KidsHappy Mother’s Day, friends!! On this week’s episode we’re celebrating with a candid conversation about connecting with your child with Down syndrome! We know how important making meaningful connections with our kids is, today we’re talking all about nurturing those connections. What we’re doing to develop the relationships with our kiddos, learning new ways to give and receive love, and so much more! And we might even have a surprise performance by none other than our very own Micha Boyett performing her original score of a still untitled Mother’s Day song. We hope all you lucky...
2023-05-0950 minThe Lucky Few201. Sofia Sanchez: Filming ‘The Hunger Games’, Her New Book, Self-Advocacy, & Middle SchoolToday we have a very special guest here to celebrate World Down Syndrome Day, the one and only Sofia Sanchez!! We just happen to be the first podcast interview (many more to come!) for this actress, model, author, and self-advocate. She has some fun projects going on: a new book, cartoon series, a feature film, and advocating on capital hill, just to name a few! Sofia gives us a tease of her experiences filming ‘The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes’ coming to theaters this November! We’d say the odds are in this middle schoolers (almost high school...
2023-03-2127 minThe Lucky FewTHROWBACK: Diversity in the Down Syndrome CommunityHey friends! We want to (re)share a VERY important episode with all of you.. A few months ago we had the chance to attend the Down Syndrome Diagnosis Network Rockin’ Mom’s Retreat and meet SO many wonderful women! And our girl Mercedes grabbed a microphone and sat down with a few lucky mamas from the DSDN Black Families group to chat all about diversity within the Down syndrome community! These mamas shared about what it’s like to google “Down syndrome” and not see a picture of a child that looks like yours, how the recent events in the cou...
2022-12-2732 min
The Lucky Few154. Community Over Competition, ft. Chantele Holm - Podcaster + Lucky MamaWe’re fresh off of the excitement of World Down Syndrome Day and we LOVE seeing all the ways our community advocates to celebrate our loved ones on 3/21. But does anyone else ever feel a little (okay a LOT) of pressure during these busy months, especially when it comes to advocating online? Does it ever seem like everyone is doing more? Or like all the good ideas are already taken? Today we’re chatting about how the scarcity mindset hurts our community and how we can support our fellow advocates. That’s why we have Chantele Holm, fellow lucky mama +...
2022-03-2944 min
The Lucky Few151. Finding People That Don't Feel Sorry For You (ft. Jo Lopez)Today we are joined by Jo Lopez, a fellow lucky mama + IRL assistant to Heather Avis! Jo has made it her mission to find community within the Down syndrome space and today she’s sharing all about how she’s found her people. It started with an early (and confusing) diagnosis, an overwhelming google search, and then a sweet Facebook message that changed everything! We’re also chatting about finding your people in-person, the right time to join an online group, and how having a child with DS shapes your social life.. especially as they get older.
Plus...
2022-03-0854 minThe Lucky Few148. Diversity in the Down Syndrome CommunityA few months ago we had the chance to attend the Down Syndrome Diagnosis Network Rockin’ Mom’s Retreat and meet SO many wonderful women! And our girl Mercedes grabbed a microphone and sat down with a few lucky mamas from the DSDN Black Families group to chat all about diversity within the Down syndrome community! These mamas shared about what it’s like to google “Down syndrome” and not see a picture of a child that looks like yours, how the recent events in the country have continued to shape them, and why they sought out a group for fellow...
2022-02-1538 minThe Lucky Few146. It's Black History Month! Let's Talk About It.Friends! February is Black History Month! You know what that means.. lots of important conversations between us and some of our favorite Black advocates in the Down syndrome space. Because let’s face it, many of us have been able to skip out on these tough conversations our whole lives. Growing up, the month of February just meant coloring a picture of Martin Luther King Jr and then moving on with the day. Not anymore friends. We’re doing our best to highlight Black voices this month (and all the time really). And today we are chatting all about cele...
2022-02-0129 minThe Lucky Few145. Just the Three of Us.. on Grief, New Year's Resolutions, & What's to Come in 2022Three weeks into January isn’t too late to wish y’all a Happy New Year right? Let’s just go with it! Because today we’re catching up with each other after our holiday break.. we’re talking all things schedule changes, behaviors, covid cancellations, (already failed) resolutions, and how to entertain our children during their school break (and why it’s okay not to)!
We’re also discussing some heavier topics today as Micha is diving deep into how the loss of her father in December has affected her and her family.. including Ace. Processing grief with you...
2022-01-2551 minThe Lucky Few#THROWBACK: What do you wish you knew when you got your child's diagnosis?We’re back with one of our favorite episodes with one of our favorite questions.. “If you could go back and talk to yourself when you got your diagnosis, what would you say..” Micha grabbed a microphone and walked all around the Down Syndrome Diagnosis Network’s Rockin’ Moms Retreat and asked this question. We got the most amazing (and tear-jerking) responses from you rockin’ mamas. And we’re sharing them with you all today. This episode is full of wisdom from mamas of adults, teens, toddlers, and even twins. These perspectives are a whole lot better than a google search...
2022-01-1857 minThe Lucky Few#Throwback: Disability Representation In The Media w/Gail Williamson (Talent Agent & Mother)We’re back with another one of our favorite videos, featuring one of our favorite advocates. Here we go.. “There’s not a right way to have worth.. you just have worth.” - Heather Avis. We’re honored to chat once again with Gail Williamson who has been showing the media the worth of actors with Down syndrome for many years! It all started when her son Blair auditioned for a running commercial.. he’s built quite the acting career since and so has Gail - but in a much different way! She developed the children’s division in the Media Acce...
2022-01-1153 minThe Lucky Few#THROWBACK: Tell Me You're Raising A Child w/DS Without Telling Me You're Raising A Child w/DSTime for another one of our favorite episodes! You might have seen the popular social media trend where people describe a relatable situation and others know exactly what they’re talking about - or at least that’s what we think it means.. So we’re here with a fun game of “tell me you’re raising a child with Down syndrome without telling me you’re raising a child with Down syndrome.” If you are parenting a kiddo w/DS, you might relate to the endless amounts of abbreviations you have to learn (OT, PT, ABA, the list goes on), the...
2022-01-0432 minThe Lucky Few#THROWBACK: "A Life Meant to be Lived," w/Karen Gaffney (Self-Advocate & Open-Water Swimmer)What better way to kick off the new year than with this extraordinary self-advocate? She’s the first person with Down syndrome to swim across the English Channel, she’s spoken to crowds across the nation, she’s started a non-profit foundation, she’s earned an honorary doctorate degree, she’s been a hard working employee for several years and she hasn’t let this pandemic stop her. She’s Karen Gaffney. And today she’s telling us all about her motto: “Down syndrome is a life meant to be lived.”
From open water swims nearly 9 miles long (sometimes with...
2021-12-2837 minThe Lucky Few#THROWBACK: Discussing "Dignity Beyond Accomplishment," An Article by Justin Hawkins (ft. author, Justin Hawkins)Time to revisit an important conversation about the connection between dignity, accomplishment, and disability. We love our friends with Down syndrome (many of whom have been on this show) who are doing BIG things in the world! Representation is important and we are cheering them on! But what about the people with DS who aren’t running marathons or starring in movies? Does society see them as important too? Or does our world only see people with DS as valuable when they accomplish something big? There is a lot to explore here. That’s why we sat down and chat...
2021-12-211h 00The Lucky Few#THROWBACK: "More Than A Moment," w/Kelli CaughmanWe’re so excited to re-release an amazing episode from earlier this year.. all about the intersection between race and disability, featuring our friend Kelli Caughman! She is a mother, wife, and a leading Black advocate in the Down syndrome community. Not only is Kelli the Black Families Director for the Down Syndrome Diagnosis Network, she created the Black Family Village in Indiana and serves on the board of Gigi’s Playhouse in Indiana. We’re so thankful for everything Kelli brings to our DS community and we’re especially grateful she’s joining us for another important conversation during Bla...
2021-12-1452 minThe Lucky Few108. The One Where We Interview Our KidsWe’re finishing the month of March with a very special interview with our favorite self-advocates.. our own children! That’s right, we have Ace, Sunny, Macy, and August on the podcast today for a sweet convo complete with a special “wheels on the bus” number just for you all! Plus the kids are telling us all about their favorite tv shows, sports, and music — don’t miss an update on Heather’s Beyonce NY’s resolution! They’re also answering the question: “What is your favorite thing about yourself?” and the responses are sweeter than we even imagined.
We’re also chatt...
2021-04-0143 minThe Lucky Few66. Public Speaking & Self Advocacy w/Matthew SchwabAt 22 years old, Matthew Schwab is a public speaker, employee, volunteer, ambassador, intern, campaign manager, and so much more. You may have even seen him advocating for employing people with disabilities on his TedX Talk! When he’s not writing speeches or selling merchandise, he’s sending emails or hanging out with his girlfriend. We’re so happy he took the time to sit down with us and chat all about his busy life, his future goals, and his journey from being sad about his Down Syndrome diagnosis to embracing it!
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SHOW NOTES
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2020-04-2136 minThe Lucky Few65. The Quarantine ChroniclesRaise your hand if your quarantine situation is nothing like you and your Pinterest board thought it would be! (We’ve got both arms up at this point). And it’s okay if you do too, friends. Because educating your children and working from home and surviving a global pandemic is hard. We’re right there with you.
So today, join us for a chat about our quarantine situations, how to explain this madness to your kiddos, setting realistic expectations, giving yourself grace, and why homeschool should actually be called “crisis school.” We are cheering for each and everyo...
2020-04-1450 minThe Lucky Few63. Health & Down Syndrome w/Dr. Noemi Spinazzi“Stay home, wash your hands, don’t touch your face….” you’ve heard it all before. But now you can hear from pediatrician Dr. Noemi Spinazzi, who specializes in Down Syndrome! She works at a children’s hospital in Oakland, CA and is the medical director of Charlie’s Clinic - a Down Syndrome specific health care center!
Today we’re asking her about all things health and Down Syndrome from special Covid-19 precautions, medical myths, speech, pneumonia, hearing, and more! Dr. Spinazzi also shares what it’s like to be a doctor in our Covid-19 world and how we can all...
2020-03-311h 06The Lucky Few61. Behind the Scenes of El Candidato, the extraordinary documentary about Bryan RussellBryan Russell is the first person with Down Syndrome to ever run for political office anywhere in the world, and we are here for it! This past January, Bryan showed Peru (and the world) what he’s made of, earning over 13,000 votes in his efforts to earn a congressional position. And thankfully, Katie and Ryan Marley followed his journey every step of the way. Their upcoming documentary, “El Candidato” explores the biggest questions surrounding this election: Can someone with DS run for office and make a difference? Is the country ready for someone with DS to be a politician? Does Br...
2020-03-1855 min
The Lucky Bee PodcastThe Lucky Bee Podcast EP 12 "Afa takes over; Doja Cat is god (maybe)"I don't think Doja Cat is god, but she could be according to Afa. If you couldn't find something better to do with your time, listen to me and Afa talk about dog meat, Parasite the movie, and dabble in some harmless devil worship. Music by: Adeoluwa "Dey Forever"
- Thank you for letting us use your music Adeoluwa!
- Thank you Afa, for doing us the honour of appearing on The Lucky Bee Podcast!
2020-03-1057 minThe Lucky Few51. LIVE w/Inclusive Talent Agent + Amazing Actors!LIVE from Southern California, we have actors Jamie Brewer, Cole Sibus, Jared Kozak, and their amazing talent agent, Gail Williamson here to chat all about Down Syndrome and the media! Jamie, Cole, and Jared are not only incredible actors on wonderful shows (like American Horror Story, Stumptown, and The Loudhouse), they’re also rocking that extra chromosome and shifting the Down Syndrome narrative in the entertainment industry!
What a joy it was to sit down with the people who bring so much joy to our screens every day! You’ll love this LIVE interview, friends! And you’ll lov...
2019-11-251h 15The Lucky Few50. Memories, Mishaps, and More!50 episodes, friends! Can you believe it? (It’s okay, we can’t either)! We hope you’ve enjoyed listening to these past 50 episodes as much as we have recording them! We’ve enjoyed it so much that today we’re chatting all about our awesome guest roster, our favorite moments, some behind the scenes details, and why we are so thankful for this podcast + all of YOU! That’s right dear listeners, thank you for learning, laughing, and (hopefully) growing alongside of us! This is only the beginning!
Listen again to all of our episodes here. And don’t forget...
2019-11-1852 minThe Lucky Few48. Mikayla Holmgren on Pageants, College, and Self-AdvocacyMikayla Holmgren is a dancer, pageant star, winner of Miss Minnesota’s Spirit Award and Director’s Award, college graduate, Best Buddies ambassador, and most recently -- a Sephora representative! She also has what she calls “a little side of Down Syndrome!” Not only is this self-advocate the winner of the Miss Amazing pageant that celebrates women with different abilities, Mikayla is also the first woman with Down Syndrome to EVER compete in a state Miss USA pageant, and she won two major awards. No big deal.
We could not be more thrilled to sit down with Mikayla...
2019-11-0438 minThe Lucky Few47. Planning for the Future w/Phillip Clark from Enable SNPWhat does the future look like for your child with Down Syndrome? It’s a tough question that can overwhelm even the greatest planners. That’s why Phillip Clark created Enable Special Needs Planning (SNP), a company that helps families create comprehensive plans for their children, tailored to their unique abilities, which allow them to thrive each and every day of their lives. At the core of Enable SNP (and probably all of you) is the belief that everyone has the ability to be impactful! That’s why Phillip and the Enable SNP team empower families to begin planning for th...
2019-10-2839 minThe Lucky Few46. Behind the Scenes with Incredible Narrative ShiftersWondering how to turn your passions into narrative-shifting movements? (So are we!) That’s why we sat down and chatted with some incredible advocates at the Down Syndrome Diagnosis Network’s Rockin’ Moms Retreat last month! What a joy it was to interview Kristie Magnuson (mother to @gabe.the.babe.and.co), Tamara Pursley of the National Down Syndrome Congress, and Sinead Quinn of Grateful Wellness Co.! We’re talking about everything from t-shirt design to educator conferences and even mental health for moms of children with special needs. Getting to know this community of rockin’ mamas is such a gift!
2019-10-2138 minThe Lucky Few45. Adoption & Down Syndrome w/Stephanie Thompson from the NDSAN“My doctor told me that my baby would have Down Syndrome and then they brought up termination, so I came home and googled Down Syndrome and adoption and you were the first thing that came up..” the beginning of countless conversations Stephanie Thompson shares with expectant parents. A mother of a 27-year-old son with Down Syndrome herself, Stephanie has walked through those scary stages of the diagnosis process and now walks other parents through this journey. Knowing the uncertainty that accompanies most diagnoses, and the desire of many to parent a child with Down Syndrome, Stephanie created the National Down...
2019-10-1431 minThe Lucky Few44. Shifting the Diagnosis Narrative w/Carissa Carroll from Jack's BasketLast month, we went to DSDN’s Rockin’ Mom Retreat in Nashville, Tennessee and partied with over 700 moms who have kiddos with Down Syndrome. And we even sat down to interview a few.. including Carissa Carroll, the founder and president of Jack’s Basket! This mother of three children (one of whom rocks an extra chromosome!) learned the hard way that a Down Syndrome diagnosis is not often met with a “Congratulations!” And so, she took matters into her own hands and created Jack’s Basket, a nonprofit organization that hand delivers complimentary gift baskets to families with a new DS diagn...
2019-10-0730 minThe Lucky Few42. More Than A Handbag: An Interview w/Shivam PunjyaThe National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS) gave his family hope when his sister was born, and now he’s giving it right back. Friends, meet Shivam Punjya, the founder of Behno and the brother of Nini, his younger sister with Down Syndrome. Although his beautiful NYC brand of ethically designed handbags started out with goals to increase sustainability and support workers in India, Shivam’s most recent outreach efforts include a cause that’s pretty close to our own hearts.. The Nini Collection! That’s right, he made fashionable, quality handbags accessible to his sister, Nini, and anyone else who migh...
2019-09-2343 minThe Lucky Few41. Back to School & All Things Teaching, Learning, & Growing!Another week back to school and we feel all kinds of grateful for the amazing teachers in our lives who literally make learning happen for our kiddos every single day. Teachers, we’re here to say that we see you, we love you, and we appreciate you! That’s why today we’re answering questions from you dear listeners about how teachers can modify their classrooms, advocate for all of their students, and become lifelong learners in the process! Because let’s face it, we ALL have some learning to do, we ALL have some listening to do, and we ALL have...
2019-09-1639 minThe Lucky Few40. Back to School: All Things Education, Inclusion, and Down SyndromeAnyone else feel overwhelmed and under-qualified when the back to school season begins?! We know we do! But here’s the thing: when it comes to your child’s education, YOU DO YOU. If you doing you means homeschooling, great! If it means a fully inclusive general education setting, great! If it means a special education class setting, great! This week we’re here to say that we are cheering for you and your child with Down Syndrome at school, at home, and in every space you occupy. Because when it comes down to it, choosing the “perfect” (if there is such a...
2019-09-0945 minThe Lucky Few39. Back to School w/IEP Experts Vickie Brett & Amanda SelogieIt’s official friends, we are back to school.. and we are taking you all with us! First things first, let’s talk IEPs with the founders of The Inclusive Education Project: Amanda Selogie and Vickie Brett. These two bright and beautiful lawyers use their extensive knowledge of education law and their passion for people with different abilities to educate families on special education rights and connect them with pro bono legal aid. And fortunately for us, they’re sharing their top IEP tips and strategies today! They encourage all of you parents to follow up (in writing) about post-IEP-m...
2019-09-021h 03The Lucky Few38. Remembering JimboThis week on The Lucky Few Podcast, we are remembering James Eugene Lanto, better known as Jimbo, and even better known as Jimbo_Is_The_Man on Instagram. Oh friends, where do we begin? How do we honor such a valued life and such an important part of this community? You see, for many of us in the online Down Syndrome world, Jimbo’s Instagram account was the first glimpse of what an adult life could look like for our little ones with extra chromosomes. Jimbo’s spirit seen through those little squares on our phones gave us immense hope and...
2019-08-261h 02The Lucky Few35. Traveling with The Lara FamilyHi friends- Mercedes & Andy Lara (@hooray4sunny) here! We’ve been traveling with our three kiddos all summer long and you wouldn’t believe the stories we have for you! Between all of our crazy fun adventures, we’ve picked up on quite a few #TravelHacks along the way, especially for children with different abilities! Snacks, sunscreen, and no screen time are just a few of our keys to a fun vacation. But we get it, traveling with kids isn’t always easy, especially if you’re traveling with people who don’t quite understand why your child responds a little differe...
2019-08-0537 minThe Lucky Few34. Our Response to the East Family's Negative Down Syndrome DiagnosisWith all the chatter surrounding the recent videos from Shawn and Andrew East and their negative Down Syndrome diagnosis, we thought it best to chime in (with grace and compassion, we might add!). The East’s have been extremely (and admirably!) open about their pregnancy journey thus far, but controversy arose when they shared what the media deemed “disappointing news” that their baby had markers for Down Syndrome, in their video, “pregnancy complications | the east family.” Their next video titled, “answered prayers. | the east family,” featured the couple celebrating news that their baby would be born “healthy,” AKA without Down Syndrome. Natu...
2019-07-2953 minThe Lucky Few33. How Has Down Syndrome Created Your Family Norm?Heather and Josh Avis (@theluckyfewofficial) here! This week, we’re answering a question that we get asked a whole lot! “How has having two kids with Down Syndrome created our family norm?” We should probably start by saying that we’ve never really been a family with “norms.” The two of us moved to Hawaii just weeks after getting married at the ages of 20 and 23. A few years later, we came back to California and adopted three kids (not all at once, thank goodness!). Macyn is 11 with Down Syndrome, Truly is 8, and August is 5 with Down Syndrome. Our free spirited nature de...
2019-07-2240 minThe Lucky Few32. The (Beautiful) Reality of Befriending Someone with Down SyndromeWe believe that one of the most powerful ways to shift the Down Syndrome narrative is by creating meaningful friendships with people who have DS. But we’re not just talking about those forced, obligatory, hero-complex infused friendships. We’re talking about people without DS who might have no previous interaction with the DS world intentionally creating meaningful friendships with their peers who have extra chromosomes. But let’s be real, those friendships aren’t easy, especially at the grade school level. Parents of kids with Down Syndrome often feel overwhelmed when trying to make playdates for their child with peers...
2019-07-1552 min
The Lucky Bee PodcastThe Lucky Bee Podcast EP 10 "Homiesexual love"10 Episodes in, The Lucky Bee explores the pressing issues of our society: Homiesexual love through the lens of "Black Mirror: Striking Vipers (S05 E01)"
2019-06-1830 minThe Lucky Few21. Owning Your Influence in Front of the Camera With Amanda BoothHi friends! Welcome back to Season Three, Episode Two of The Lucky Few Podcast. Today, we’re chatting with Amanda Booth, an actress, model, and mama based in Los Angeles. She has appeared on network television shows such as Hot In Cleveland, Maron, and Community. Her campaign work includes advertisements for Lancome, Fiat, Hersheys, Target, and Old Navy. Her focus has broadened since becoming a mother in 2014 to her son Micah, who has Down Syndrome. Amanda is now an ambassador for Changing The Face Of Beauty and Global Down Syndrome Foundation as well as a social media advocate.
S...
2019-03-251h 04The Lucky Few20. Owning Your Influence: WDSD & Dear Mom, ConferenceHi friends! Welcome to Season 3 of The Lucky Few Podcast. We are SO glad you found your way here, and on World Down Syndrome Day of all days! There is no better time to talk about owning your influence than right now. So let’s talk about it, with all the moms at Dear Mom, Conference! We’re asking, “What does it mean to be a shouter of worth?”
For some mamas it means planning an awareness event in your city, and to others it means blogging, or even adopting! All of these narrative shifting ladies prove that each...
2019-03-211h 09The Lucky Few19. Q & A!Hey, friends! We are so glad you’re here for the final episode of Season Two of The Lucky Few Podcast! Listen along as we relive the best of this season and answer questions from you lovely listeners! From the conversations about inclusion with Kristen, self-advocacy with Kayla, and Down Syndrome in the church with Jamie, to the lessons learned from Terry Brown and parents of children with Down Syndrome, this season has been powerful! The world change doesn’t stop here though! This week, we are answering your questions about how to make time for all of your children and...
2018-12-031h 02The Lucky Few18. The Ultimate Holiday Gift Guide 2018Welcome to The Lucky Few Podcast, friends! Thanksgiving is behind us and the holiday season is ahead! Struggling with gift ideas for your friends and family? We’ve got you covered. Listen along for the Ultimate Holiday Gift Guide, your inside look into this season’s most meaningful gifts for everyone on your list!
From personalized children's books to planners, tote bags, and sponsorships, each gift in our guide supports a company that makes the world a better place. This season, give gifts that shout the worth of people with Down Syndrome and bring joy to your children, your friends, and...
2018-11-261h 03The Lucky Few4. Adoption - Guest Lisa EicherWelcome to our latest episode of The Lucky Few Podcast! Today we are talking about all things adoption; from the hope, joy, and true magic it provides to the daily struggles that not enough people are talking about. We share our personal adoption stories and are so lucky to get to chat with the amazing Lisa Eicher from @eicherumba who has four awesome kids and two of whom she adopted and happen to have Down syndrome. We laugh and cry and hear some great advice from Lisa and cover questions people looking into adoption might have (hint: google will be...
2018-05-0247 minThe Lucky Few1. World Down Syndrome Day 2018Welcome to our first official episode of The Lucky Few Podcast! In this episode, we chat about our own World Down syndrome Day celebrations that range from waking the kids up in the morning to fulfilling Heather’s lifelong dream. Plus we talk out our real life unicorns, the newest Gerber baby, and the tattoo everyone is getting. You will also get to hear about an amazing opportunity to connect with others in the Down syndrome community, and we celebrate your good news. We hope this podcast brings you encouragement, hope, and a new voice as we work to shift th...
2018-03-211h 00
The Lucky FewWelcome to the Lucky Few Podcast!Welcome to The Lucky Few Podcast.
We are so excited to announce the official podcast for The Lucky Few. In this episode we take the time to introduce ourselves and share a little about the future of the show. Over the past few years we have experienced such an incredible community around Down Syndrome and Adoption. We hope this podcast brings you encouragement, hope, and a new voice in hopes to change the narrative about those living with Down Syndrome. Please subscribe at our website for updates and events in the future. Enjoy, and interact with us on all of...
2018-02-1112 min