Advertise on podcast: Parenting Impossible – The Special Needs Survival Podcast

What if technology wasn't something to fear, but something that could finally meet our kids where they are? In this episode of Parenting Impossible, Annette Hines sits down with Abby Brody, educator, innovator, and founder of the N=1 movement. Abby shares her powerful story of surviving back-to-back cancer diagnoses in her husband and young son, and how that experience reshaped everything from how she views education, to how she uses tech to advocate for personalized learning and healthcare. As a parent who has overcome massive challenges, Abby's insights are personal, practical, and deeply hopeful. In this episode, you will hear: How Abby's experience as a caregiver and parent led her to champion individualized, tech-supported learning. What the N=1 movement is and why the "average" child or patient doesn't really exist. Why AI can transform education, freeing up time for creativity, recess, and personalized learning while supporting teachers. Simple ways parents can start using AI to support their child's growth even if they feel intimidated by technology. How precision medicine could revolutionize healthcare by treating the patient, not just the protocol. Resources from this Episode: Website: https://www.abbybrody.com/ LinkedIn: @abby-brody Instagram:@abbybrody   Engage with us: 25% off any courses, masterclasses and minisodes in Special Needs Academy here Join our community: Circle of Care Visit:  https://annettehines.com Read Butterflies and Second Chances LinkedIn: @annette-hines-snc  Instagram: @parentingimpossible Facebook: @SpecialNeedsCompanies Twitter: @SpecialNeedsCo   Follow and Review: We'd love for you to follow us if you haven't yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We'd love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select "Ratings and Reviews" and "Write a Review" then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.  

As many of you know, this time of year is always layered for me. Mother's Day brings both sweet memories and aching absences. In this episode of Parenting Impossible, I open up about my own motherhood journey. I've lived through the joy of raising two incredible daughters, and I've lived through the unimaginable grief of losing one of them. I wanted to share a few things I've learned along the way—things I wish I'd known when I was in the thick of it. To those of you parenting children with disabilities, caring for aging parents, or simply doing your best to hold it all together: I see you. You are not alone. And whatever Mother's Day looks like for you this year, I hope you find a moment to honor the incredible work you're doing. In this episode, you will hear: It's okay if motherhood doesn't feel magical all the time. A shift can come when you least expect it. Choose joy where you can.   Engage with us: 25% off any courses, masterclasses, and minisodes in Special Needs Academy here Join our community: Circle of Care Visit:  https://annettehines.com Read Butterflies and Second Chances LinkedIn: @annette-hines-snc  Instagram: @parentingimpossible Facebook: @SpecialNeedsCompanies Twitter: @SpecialNeedsCo   Follow and Review: We'd love for you to follow us if you haven't yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We'd love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select "Ratings and Reviews" and "Write a Review" then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.  

When it comes to protecting a loved one with disabilities, few decisions are as overwhelming as choosing the right trustee. But in a world of nonprofit pooled trusts, legal jargon, and alarming headlines about financial misconduct, how do you separate peace of mind from potential pitfalls? In this episode of Parenting Impossible, I break down everything you need to know about Pooled Special Needs Trusts, from how they work to when they make sense. I share hard-earned wisdom as both a lawyer and a special needs parent, guiding you through what questions to ask, how to vet your options, and why sometimes the best Trustee choice isn't family, but a professional with heart and structure. You'll walk away not just more informed, but more empowered. In this episode, you will hear: What a Pooled Trust actually is, and who should consider one. The difference between First-party and Third-party Special Needs Trusts. What went wrong in the recent $100M nonprofit scandal (and how to avoid it). Why transparency, independence, and communication are non-negotiable.   Engage with us: 25% off any courses, masterclasses and minisodes in Special Needs Academy here Join our community: Circle of Care Visit:  https://annettehines.com Read Butterflies and Second Chances LinkedIn: @annette-hines-snc  Instagram: @parentingimpossible Facebook: @SpecialNeedsCompanies Twitter: @SpecialNeedsCo   Follow and Review: We'd love for you to follow us if you haven't yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We'd love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select "Ratings and Reviews" and "Write a Review" then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.  

Caring for a child with disabilities isn't just a full-time job, it's a deeply personal, emotional, and often isolating journey. What if the support parents need wasn't just about filling a shift, but about building a relationship? In this episode of Parenting Impossible, Annette Hines sits down with Susan Asay, founder of Apex Social Exchange Foundation, to talk about what it really means to find care you can trust. Susan shares her own story of juggling a demanding career, raising young kids, and desperately trying to find someone who could not only help, but understand. That search led to a program connecting families with compassionate, live-in care professionals trained to support children with complex needs. Building a more inclusive world starts in the home, and with the right support, parents don't have to do it alone.   In this episode, you will hear: Why the person caring for your child should be a true partner in their development.  How to find someone qualified and emotionally ready to support a child with disabilities full-time. Ways international caregivers fill the critical gap in America's special needs childcare system. Why matching personalities just as important as matching skills when it comes to live-in care. Resources from this Episode: Website: https://apex-social.org/ Instagram & TikTok: @apexsocial LinkedIn:@apex-social YouTube: @apexsocial1 Facebook: @apexsocial.org   Engage with us: 25% off any courses, masterclasses and minisodes in Special Needs Academy here Join our community: Circle of Care Visit:  https://annettehines.com Read Butterflies and Second Chances LinkedIn: @annette-hines-snc  Instagram: @parentingimpossible Facebook: @SpecialNeedsCompanies Twitter: @SpecialNeedsCo   Follow and Review: We'd love for you to follow us if you haven't yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We'd love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select "Ratings and Reviews" and "Write a Review" then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.  

Workshops that equip educators to support children with disabilities and engage parents are essential in bridging knowledge gaps for better care. In this episode of Parenting Impossible, Annette Hines speaks with Jenny Nechvatal, an Early Childhood Teacher, Author, and devoted parent, who shares her journey raising three children, including twin boys diagnosed with level three autism. Their conversation explores the importance of accepting children's abilities and highlights the diverse support systems available in both Australia and the U.S. Embracing and celebrating a child's unique strengths is a crucial part of parenting children with disabilities. A strong support network ensures they receive the care, resources, and opportunities needed to thrive. Join us to discover how all of these elements work together to ensure empowered children and supported parents.   In this episode, you will hear: How educators can enhance communication with parents of children with disabilities by fostering open, empathetic, and consistent dialogue. Ways play-based learning is essential in early childhood education for children with disabilities, promoting cognitive, social, and motor skill development. Why acceptance at different stages of raising children with disabilities is crucial for fostering confidence, resilience, and a supportive environment. How workshops provide educators and managers with valuable skills and insights to better support children with disabilities. Why strong support systems are essential for individuals with disabilities and their families, ensuring access to resources, advocacy, and community connections. Resources from this Episode: Website: https://innovativedisabilitysolutions.squarespace.com/ Read: Embracing Disability in Early Childhood: Supporting Children Living with a Disability and their Families in Early Childhood Settings LinkedIn: @jenny-nechvatal Instagram & Facebook: @innovativedisabilitysolutions Engage with us: Join our community: Circle of Care Visit:  https://annettehines.com Read Butterflies and Second Chances LinkedIn: @annette-hines-snc  Instagram: @parentingimpossible Facebook: @SpecialNeedsCompanies Twitter: @SpecialNeedsCo   Follow and Review: We'd love for you to follow us if you haven't yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We'd love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select "Ratings and Reviews" and "Write a Review" then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.

Parenting can be a whirlwind of chaos and imperfections, but sometimes, it's in those messy moments that growth and learning truly happens. In this episode of Parenting Impossible, Annette Hines speaks with children's author, Cynthia Di Filippo Elomaa. Cynthia embraces imperfection and chaos in parenting, emphasizing that seeking support and tailored assistance is essential while recognizing that each child learns at their own unique pace. Her inclusive educational book series, "Nikki's Very Messy Room," centers on planning, collaboration, and involving children in chores to foster responsibility and ownership, all of which challenges traditional notions of order and perfection by celebrating the natural, messy rhythms of family life.   In this episode, you will hear: Why involving children in planning is important. Why seeking support and asking for help is essential in parenting. What activities can be provided to engage children in learning independently. How interactive reading experiences benefit children. Why it is important to understand that not every child learns at the same pace. Resources from this Episode: Website: https://cynthiadifilippoelomaa.com/ Read: Nicky's Very Messy Room Register for classes: Stillwater Book, West Warwick, RI  https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1144567134109?aff=oddtdtcreator No Other Book Like This, Mystic CT https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1144392291149?aff=oddtdtcreator LinkedIn & Twitter/X: @cynthiaelomaa Instagram: @authorcynthiaelomaa YouTube: @AuthorCynthiaDiFilippoElomaa Engage with us: Join our community: Circle of Care Visit:  https://annettehines.com Read Butterflies and Second Chances LinkedIn: @annette-hines-snc  Instagram: @parentingimpossible Facebook: @SpecialNeedsCompanies Twitter: @SpecialNeedsCo   Follow and Review: We'd love for you to follow us if you haven't yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We'd love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select "Ratings and Reviews" and "Write a Review" then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.  

Embracing culture is more than just a statement; it's a way of life. In this episode of Parenting Impossible, Annette Hines sat down with Christa Preston, founder of Embrace Kulture, to share her journey of fostering inclusion for children with developmental and cognitive disabilities in Uganda and East Africa. Inspired by her brother, Nick, and local Ugandan child, Olivia, Christa grew the organization into a fully Ugandan-led movement that has reached over a million people, influenced national policies, and transformed inclusive education. She also highlighted #NoMoreHiddenChildren, a growing social movement empowering ambassadors to identify undiagnosed children and spread the message of acceptance. Join the movement and help make a difference by visiting Embrace Kulture's website to learn more and get involved! In this episode, you will hear: The importance of community support for individuals with disabilities, regardless of culture. How Embrace Kulture empowers parents of children with disabilities in Uganda and East Africa What role parents of children with special needs play in the community. How Embrace Kulture collaborates with local experts and organizations in Uganda. Why it is important to respect and reflect the culture and community when working towards inclusive practices. Resources from this Episode: Website: https://www.embracekulture.org/ Facebook, Twitter/X, Instagram : @embracekulture YouTube: ​​@embracekulture6061   Engage with us: Join our community: Circle of Care Visit:  https://annettehines.com Read Butterflies and Second Chances LinkedIn: @annette-hines-snc  Instagram: @parentingimpossible Facebook: @SpecialNeedsCompanies Twitter: @SpecialNeedsCo   Follow and Review: We'd love for you to follow us if you haven't yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We'd love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select "Ratings and Reviews" and "Write a Review" then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.  

Being a fiduciary is like being a financial superhero with great power and great responsibility. In this episode of Parenting Impossible, I break down the critical role of fiduciary responsibilities and how to navigate them effectively. Acting as a fiduciary goes beyond managing finances; it requires transparency, organized documentation, and a deep understanding of beneficiaries' needs to make informed decisions. Fiduciaries wield the power to make decisions that significantly impact others' lives. It's a role that demands not only expertise but also a strong sense of duty and ethics. By embracing this checklist, fiduciaries can confidently fulfill their duties and make a lasting positive impact on the lives they touch.   In this episode, you will hear: What key public benefits fiduciaries need to understand and track. What important responsibilities fiduciaries should be aware of. How fiduciaries can ensure effective financial oversight. Why positive relationships and open communication is important in caregiving and fiduciary roles. Engage with us: Join our community: Circle of Care Visit:  https://annettehines.com Read Butterflies and Second Chances LinkedIn: @annette-hines-snc  Instagram: @parentingimpossible Facebook: @SpecialNeedsCompanies Twitter: @SpecialNeedsCo   Follow and Review: We'd love for you to follow us if you haven't yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We'd love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select "Ratings and Reviews" and "Write a Review" then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.  

Supporting the special needs community is crucial for creating an inclusive and welcoming world for individuals with disabilities.    In this episode of Parenting Impossible, I talk about the importance of intentional planning to support the special needs community and ease the anxiety that often weighs on individuals with disabilities and their caregivers. I share my experiences and how thoughtful accommodations can make all the difference as a parent. Passion is important, but real change comes from purposeful actions and planning. It's about creating a world where everyone feels included and supported regardless of ability.   In this episode, you will hear: Ways to educate yourself about the challenges and barriers faced by individuals with disabilities. How to support organizations and initiatives that promote inclusivity and accessibility. Learn to speak up against discrimination and promote acceptance and understanding. Discover ways to encourage others to join you in advocating for the rights of individuals with disabilities. Engage with us: Join our community: Circle of Care Visit:  https://annettehines.com Read Butterflies and Second Chances LinkedIn: @annette-hines-snc  Instagram: @parentingimpossible Facebook: @SpecialNeedsCompanies Twitter: @SpecialNeedsCo   Follow and Review: We'd love for you to follow us if you haven't yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We'd love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select "Ratings and Reviews" and "Write a Review" then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.  

In the ever-evolving landscape of personal and financial circumstances, regularly updating your estate plan cannot be overstated. In this episode of Parenting Impossible, I talk about why it's so important to keep your estate plan up to date. Life happens—families change, finances shift, and you might buy a new property or start a business in another state. That's why I recommend reviewing your plan every year and doing a deeper dive every three years, or whenever a big life event happens. From my own experience, I've seen how essential it is to adapt your plan so it truly reflects where you are in life. Working with the right attorney can help you address things like creditor issues and make sure your loved ones are taken care of, especially if you're managing unique needs or navigating state-specific rules. Estate planning might not sound exciting, but it's all about protecting the people and things that matter most to you.   In this episode, you will hear: Why it is important to regularly review and update estate plans. Key considerations when preserving assets for disabled beneficiaries. Why it is important to regularly update beneficiary designations. When estate plans should be revised when relocating to another state. Engage with us: Join our community: Circle of Care Visit:  https://annettehines.com Read Butterflies and Second Chances LinkedIn: @annette-hines-snc  Instagram: @parentingimpossible Facebook: @SpecialNeedsCompanies Twitter: @SpecialNeedsCo   Follow and Review: We'd love for you to follow us if you haven't yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We'd love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select "Ratings and Reviews" and "Write a Review" then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.  

Individuals with disabilities often encounter significant hurdles in accessing quality healthcare due to limited accessibility options and a scarcity of available services. In this episode of Parenting Impossible, I address the challenges individuals with disabilities face in accessing quality healthcare, including limited services and barriers like Medicaid restrictions. I advocate for policy changes to enhance resources and emphasize the importance of building community to share experiences and solutions. By shifting from a scarcity mindset to one of abundance, focusing on strengths, and setting personalized goals, individuals can better navigate these hurdles. I also highlight the value of education, online resources, and mindfulness in creating a supportive network that fosters growth and advocacy. In this episode, you will hear: Why advocating for policy changes is crucial to increase accessibility and support. How to shift from a scarcity mindset to an abundance mindset when setting goals. The importance of individualized planning for individuals with disabilities. Why building a community is important in supporting individuals with disabilities.   Engage with us: Join our community: Circle of Care Visit:  https://annettehines.com Read Butterflies and Second Chances LinkedIn: @annette-hines-snc  Instagram: @parentingimpossible Facebook: @SpecialNeedsCompanies Twitter: @SpecialNeedsCo   Follow and Review: We'd love for you to follow us if you haven't yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We'd love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select "Ratings and Reviews" and "Write a Review" then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.  

The process of planning for the future of disabled children is often overwhelming.    In this episode of Parenting Impossible, I share how planning for the future of disabled children is a daunting yet essential task for their well-being and security. I talk about setting big goals for their future, including where they will live and work, who will support them, and the importance of creating a letter of intent to document their needs, routines, and preferences. I also highlight choosing trusted guardians and trustees who understand disabilities and complex systems like benefits and education. If you need support or resources to start this process, visit my website or reach out. You're not alone—I'm here to help.   In this episode, you will hear: The importance of letters of intent in a child's future. How creating trusts benefits children with special financial needs. Why it is crucial to choose the right individuals for financial decision-making roles. Key elements to consider when planning for disabled children's future. Why clear communication of goals and plans are essential. Engage with us: Join our community: Circle of Care Visit:  https://annettehines.com Read Butterflies and Second Chances LinkedIn: @annette-hines-snc  Instagram: @parentingimpossible Facebook: @SpecialNeedsCompanies Twitter: @SpecialNeedsCo   Follow and Review: We'd love for you to follow us if you haven't yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We'd love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select "Ratings and Reviews" and "Write a Review" then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.  

The healthcare system is a battleground where profits often triumph over patient needs. In this episode of Parenting Impossible, I take a closer look at our profit-driven healthcare system after the assassination of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson. Financial goals often outweigh patient care, with rising denials for essential treatments and CEO compensation tied to profits—creating a troubling conflict of interest. As a mom who fought tirelessly for my daughter's Medicaid support, I know firsthand how broken this system is for families just trying to get the care they need. It shouldn't be this hard. We can learn from healthcare models in countries like Canada and England, where patients—not profits—come first. It's time for change.   In this episode, you will hear: Some challenges individuals face in navigating complex health insurance policies. How profit-driven healthcare models can impact patient care. Why advocacy is important in ensuring adequate patient care within the healthcare system. Engage with us: Join our community: Circle of Care Visit:  https://annettehines.com Read Butterflies and Second Chances LinkedIn: @annette-hines-snc  Instagram: @parentingimpossible Facebook: @SpecialNeedsCompanies Twitter: @SpecialNeedsCo   Follow and Review: We'd love for you to follow us if you haven't yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We'd love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select "Ratings and Reviews" and "Write a Review" then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.  

As the calendar year draws to a close, end-of-year planning becomes essential for individuals seeking to secure their personal and financial futures. In this episode of Parenting Impossible, I dive into the importance of taking control of your finances with a proactive mindset. Instead of getting stuck on setbacks, I encourage you to focus on celebrating your wins and using them as a foundation to move forward. I share practical tips on keeping your asset lists and important documents, like letters of intent, up to date—not just to avoid legal issues but to simplify life for you and your loved ones. We'll also explore how timely retirement and tax planning can set you up for success in the new year, especially in light of the updates from the Secure Act. Let's make this the year you take charge with confidence!  In this episode, you will hear: Why it is important to update documents like letters of intent. What to focus on celebrating at the end of the year. How reviewing retirement assets and estate planning documents benefits you. Why it is crucial to align beneficiary designations with estate planning goals   Engage with us: Join our community: Circle of Care Visit:  https://annettehines.com Read Butterflies and Second Chances LinkedIn: @annette-hines-snc  Instagram: @parentingimpossible Facebook: @SpecialNeedsCompanies Twitter: @SpecialNeedsCo   Follow and Review: We'd love for you to follow us if you haven't yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We'd love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select "Ratings and Reviews" and "Write a Review" then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.  

Filmmaking celebrates human connection and inclusiveness, with on-set moments of support and camaraderie often shining through on screen. Hollywood's push to include actors with disabilities is opening doors to fresh stories and perspectives, making the industry more inclusive and inspiring. In this episode of Parenting Impossible, Annette Hines speaks with filmmaker Jay Silverman about his latest film, Camera. Inspired by his journey as a parent to a child with disabilities, the poignant story follows a young mute child in a fishing village. Through its use of the camera as a metaphor for perception and reality, the film explores themes of identity, memory, and perspective, offering a deeply moving and thought-provoking narrative. Silverman discusses the importance of pushing for authentic representation, including casting actors with disabilities. Authentic storytelling can foster connection, understanding, and inclusivity in the world of film and beyond.   In this episode, you will hear: Why authentic storytelling is important in movies like 'Camera'. Why it is important to integrate casts with people with disabilities in Hollywood. How film can play a crucial role in helping people feel understood. Ways to include authentic character representation to resonate with audiences. Resources from this Episode: Website: https://www.jaysilvermanproductions.com/ Watch: CAMERA  The film is available for free on Amazon Prime: https://www.amazon.com/gp/video/detail/B0CZX7L6TM/ref=atv_dp_share_cu_r  LinkedIn: @jay-silverman Facebook: @jay-silverman-productions   Engage with us: Join our community: Circle of Care Visit:  https://annettehines.com Read Butterflies and Second Chances LinkedIn: @annette-hines-snc  Instagram: @parentingimpossible Facebook: @SpecialNeedsCompanies Twitter: @SpecialNeedsCo   Follow and Review: We'd love for you to follow us if you haven't yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We'd love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select "Ratings and Reviews" and "Write a Review" then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.