In this powerful episode, Jocelyn Leworthy, a child life specialist and advocate, shares her personal journey living with albinism and visual impairment. Through her experiences, she highlights the everyday challenges of navigating a world that wasn't designed with universal accessibility in mind. From concert venues to shopping experiences, Jocelyn discusses both physical and attitudinal barriers that people with disabilities face, while offering practical suggestions for creating more inclusive spaces and services. Her story exemplifies the importance of moving beyond basic accommodation to truly understanding and implementing universal design principles in all aspects of society.

Connect with Jocelyn at https://www.instagram.com/childlifejocelyn/

Timestamps

[00:00:00] - Opening thoughts on embracing learning and individual experiences

[00:01:00] - Introduction and Martin Luther King Jr. quote on humanity

[00:02:00] - Jocelyn introduces her condition: albinism and visual impairment

[00:04:00] - Discussion of living in a world not designed for accessibility

[00:07:00] - Examples of everyday barriers (signage, menus, shopping)

[00:13:00] - Discussion of Universal Design for Learning principles

[00:15:00] - Challenges with attitudinal barriers and validation

[00:20:00] - Employment considerations and disclosure

[00:27:00] - Recommendations for businesses on improving accessibility

[00:29:00] - Taylor Swift concert accessibility experience

[00:34:00] - Challenges with Ticketmaster and venue accessibility

[00:42:00] - Impact of uninformed staff responses to accessibility needs

[00:47:00] - Suggestions for retail accessibility improvements

[00:54:00] - Importance of open dialogue and willingness to learn

[00:57:00] - Closing thoughts on universal inclusion

Key Takeaways

1. Universal accessibility is not just about physical accommodations but also about addressing attitudinal barriers and misconceptions.
2. Simple solutions often exist for improving accessibility (like digital menus, product description books, QR codes) but aren't widely implemented.
3. The burden of advocacy often falls on individuals with disabilities, leading to exhaustion and frustration.
4. Staff training should focus less on becoming "experts" and more on being open to learning from individuals about their specific needs.
5. Universal design benefits everyone, not just those with specific disabilities or impairments.
6. Businesses may be losing customer base by not considering accessibility in their services and products.

Connect with Katie Begley!

https://www.heartinhome.ca/

https://www.instagram.com/heartinhomeliving/

heartinhomepodcast@gmail.com

Join us for an insightful and heartfelt conversation with Dr. Elena Merenda, founder of Children's Healing Studio, as she shares her personal journey with grief and her professional expertise in supporting children and families through the grieving process. Elena discusses how children experience and express grief differently from adults, offers practical strategies for parents, and emphasizes the importance of seeking support during difficult times.

Time Stamps

00:00 - Introduction and Elena's personal connection to grief

02:00 - Elena's journey to founding Children's Healing Studio

05:00 - Discussion of personal grief experiences and family dynamics

13:00 - How children process grief differently from adults

16:00 - Common behavioral changes in grieving children

19:00 - Therapeutic approaches for supporting grieving children

24:00 - Creating new traditions and adapting to change

28:00 - Impact of grief on infants and toddlers

33:00 - Grief in the context of divorce and family separation

36:00 - Timeline of grief processing and healing

42:00 - Advice for families seeking support

45:00 - How to find the right therapeutic fit for your child

47:53 Final Thoughts and Contact Information

Key Takeaways

Children's Grief Expression

• Children experience the same emotions as adults but express them differently
• Play remains a normal function even during grief
• Behavioral changes are common signs of grief in children

Impact on Different Age Groups

• Infants and toddlers are affected through disruption of routines and attachment
• Young children may show regression in development
• All age groups need age-appropriate support and explanation

Supporting Grieving Children

• Start with understanding what the child knows about death
• Use clear, direct language (e.g., "died" instead of "lost")
• Honor religious and cultural beliefs
• Allow children to express emotions without rushing to fix them

Family Dynamics

• Maintain boundaries and routines while offering appropriate choices
• Create new traditions when old ones are too painful
• Be honest about emotions while remaining age-appropriate
• Consider the whole family system in the healing process

Professional Support

• Give therapeutic relationships at least three sessions
• Allow children some control in the process
• Finding the right fit is crucial for successful support
• Don't hesitate to seek help - it's a sign of strength

Resources

For support and more information about Children's Healing Studio, contact Elena Merenda https://www.childrenshealingstudio.ca/

Connect with Katie

https://www.heartinhome.ca/

https://www.instagram.com/heartinhomeliving/

Heart & Home Podcast For guest recommendations or to be featured on the show, email: heartandhomepodcast@gmail.com

This podcast episode features an in-depth conversation with Jenna Collins, co-director of Prodigal Pottery, a non-profit organization based in Alabama that employs women fleeing homelessness, domestic abuse, and sex trafficking. Jenna shares the organization's mission to employ, equip, and empower women in need, providing them with a safe work environment and life skills training. She also discusses the critical role of faith, community support, and second chances in the healing process. Jenna's personal testimony as a survivor adds profound depth to the discussion, highlighting the transformative power of love, faith, and community in rebuilding lives.

For those interested in supporting or learning more about Prodigal Pottery, visit their website:

https://prodigalpottery.com/

Time Stamps:

00:00 Introduction to Prodigal Pottery

01:00 Welcome to the Show

01:35 Meet Jenna Collins

02:29 The Origin of Prodigal Pottery

04:12 Faith and Empowerment

05:54 Personal Testimonies

08:36 The Three E's: Employ, Equip, Empower

11:34 Overcoming Employment Barriers

18:34 Community and Support

21:56 Impact and Ripple Effect

27:45 Encouragement and Final Thoughts

40:32 Conclusion and Call to Action

Key Takeaways

Prodigal Pottery's Three E's:

• Employ: Providing job opportunities regardless of background
• Equip: Teaching pottery skills, business knowledge, and essential life skills
• Empower: Daily mentorship and accountability to build confidence and independence

The Power of Second Chances:

• Many women face employment barriers due to past records
• Trust and opportunity can be transformative
• Small acts of faith in people can lead to major life changes

Impact of Faith:

• Christ-centered approach focusing on God's love and grace
• Walking alongside women in their spiritual journeys
• Creating a supportive, faith-based community

Community Support:

• Simple donations like toiletries and supplies make a significant difference
• Volunteer opportunities through Bible studies and activities
• The importance of treating shelter residents with dignity and respect

Success Stories:

• Started with 2-3 women, now employing 14
• Products sold in over 1,600 stores across the United States and internationally
• Countless lives transformed through the program

Notable Quotes

• "God doesn't call the equipped. He equips the called."
• "Empowered women empower others."
• "The greatest gift of a second chance is I get to be honest today."

How to Support

• Purchase handmade pottery products from Prodigal Pottery
• Donate supplies to local shelters
• Volunteer time and skills
• Consider employing individuals seeking second chances
• Support organizations helping women in crisis

Connect with Katie Begley

https://www.heartinhome.ca/

https://www.instagram.com/heartinhomeliving/

heartinhomepodcast@gmail.com

In this insightful episode, we sit down with Dr. Brittany Burrows, a naturopathic doctor at Health Space Collective, to explore the interconnected world of hormones, gut health, and holistic wellness. Dr. Burrows shares her expertise on developing sustainable treatment plans and helps demystify common health concerns that many of us face in our busy lives.

Episode Highlights

• The interconnected nature of body systems and the importance of holistic healthcare
• Understanding the relationship between gut health, hormones, and overall wellbeing
• The truth about cortisol and stress management
• Practical tips for incorporating protein and healthy eating into busy lifestyles
• The importance of fiber in gut health and creative ways to increase intake
• Supporting children's gut health through diet and environmental exposure
• Finding the right healthcare practitioner for your personal journey

Time Stamps

00:00 The Importance of Feeling Heard

00:22 Introduction to the Podcast and Guest

00:56 Welcome Dr. Brittany Burrows ND

02:36 Holistic Health and Interconnected Systems

05:05 Personal Journey with Gut Health

12:38 Stress and Digestive Health

14:43 Managing Stress and Cortisol

27:10 The Role of Protein in Health

29:24 Reflecting on Proper Nutrition

29:39 Enhancing Meals with Protein

30:52 Personalized Healthy Eating Strategies

33:52 Incorporating Fiber into Your Diet

41:03 Gut Health Tips for Kids

47:00 Starting Your Health Journey

52:16 Finding the Right Healthcare Practitioner

Key Takeaways

Holistic Health Approach

• Body systems are interconnected and shouldn't be treated in isolation
• Conventional and natural medicine both have important roles in healthcare
• Treatment plans should be sustainable and personalized

Stress Management

• Cortisol levels are often within normal range despite stress
• Exercise is beneficial for stress management and shouldn't be avoided
• Movement is crucial for managing stress and maintaining overall health

Nutrition Tips

• Focus on protein intake, especially at breakfast
• Aim for at least 80 grams of protein daily for most people
• Add fiber gradually to avoid digestive discomfort
• Simple additions like seeds and legumes can enhance nutritional value

Sustainable Health Changes

• Start with one small change and maintain it for 4-6 weeks
• Choose realistic and manageable modifications
• Avoid overwhelming yourself with too many changes at once

Children's Gut Health

• Encourage dietary diversity
• Promote outdoor play and exposure to nature
• Include probiotic-rich foods in their diet
• Avoid restricting foods unnecessarily

Finding the Right Healthcare Support

• Look for practitioners who make you feel heard
• Don't give up if the first provider isn't the right fit
• Consider meet-and-greet sessions with potential practitioners

Quote of the Episode

"Finding somewhere where you feel heard is just so important. If I were to hammer one point home, it would just be around finding someone you're comfortable with and where you can be heard. That's such an important piece of the healing journey."

Resources Mentioned

• Health Space Collective (Dr. Burrows' practice)
• Greek yogurt and other probiotic-rich foods
• Natural sources of fiber (nuts, seeds, legumes)
• Movement and exercise options for stress management

Follow Dr. Brittany Burrows on social media for

In this inaugural episode of the Heart In Home Living Podcast, Dr. Nikki Martyn, an expert in early childhood development, delves into the concept of living intentionally. Alongside host Katie Begley, she explores how intentionality in daily life aligns with personal values and purpose. They discuss the challenges of such an approach, emphasizing the importance of vulnerability, balance, and boldness. Dr. Martyn also shares insights on the transformative power of love and authentic connections, particularly in the context of raising children. The conversation underscores the necessity of patience and the profound impact of intentional acts in both personal growth and the development of children's futures.

00:00 Introduction to Personal Growth and Intentional Living

00:38 Meet Dr. Nikki Martyn: Visionary in Early Childhood Development

01:20 Defining Intentionality in Daily Life

03:13 Balancing Life's Priorities: The Big Rocks Theory

05:32 Living Authentically: Embracing Vulnerability and Purpose

08:50 Intentional Parenting and Allowing Children to Be Themselves

15:56 The Struggle of Authenticity in Modern Society

31:17 Finding Inner Peace and Protecting Your Energy

40:00 Exploring Boldness in Christian Living

41:13 The Journey of Self-Discovery

41:44 A Spiritual Encounter in Bali

44:58 The Importance of Patience

46:37 Finding Purpose and Connection

55:39 The Refining Process of Struggles

01:04:34 The Power of Love and Connection

01:14:27 Lessons from Children

01:19:47 Concluding Thoughts and Gratitude

Dr. Nikki Martyn is a visionary leader and expert in early childhood development, dedicated to shaping a future where children’s voices are central. As Chair of Early Childhood Studies at the University of Guelph-Humber, she transformed the program to focus on the holistic well-being of the whole child through an interdisciplinary approach. She established the Early Childhood Studies Degree Completion program, empowering professionals to elevate their impact.

Dr. Martyn is the architect of the world’s first Child Futures specialization, a groundbreaking initiative examining the ethical use of technology and designing future environments for children. She founded the Child Futures Play Lab and developed the Child-Technology Interaction Framework (EEPO), pioneering our understanding of technology’s impact on early childhood experiences. Her research, showcased on www.childart.ca, amplifies children’s perspectives in mental health, influencing practice and policy.

With over 15 years in children’s mental health, she founded MindWerx4Kids Early Learning Centre and Primary School, reimagining education to nurture the whole child. Dr. Martyn holds a Doctorate from the Ontario Institute for Studies in Education at the University of Toronto and has been honored with the University of Guelph’s John Bell Award for Academic Leadership.

A sought-after speaker and thought leader, Dr. Martyn continues to innovate and inspire, integrating technology into healthy child development and advocating for environments that promote balanced growth. Her unwavering commitment drives her mission to shape a future where children’s development is nurtured at every level.

Connect with Katie Begley

https://www.heartinhome.ca/

https://www.instagram.com/heartinhomeliving/

Are you interested in personal growth and self-improvement, seeking ways to live more intentionally and purposefully?

Are you willing to examine your life choices, seeking ways to become more intentional for yourself and those around you?

Life is busy, messy and at times uncertain. There are a million options to choose from and often we are rushed in every decision we make. Being intentional within our everyday lives could never be more important than it is currently. You may be thinking… What does it mean to be intentional? What does that look like?

This podcast will answer these questions and more while we explore the importance of being intentional and the many different ways that intentionality can fit into your lifestyle.

I am Katie Begley, a Registered Early Childhood Educator, a professor in Early Childhood Studies and Entrepreneur. With 14 years of post secondary teaching experience, I have a wealth of skills and knowledge to share in support of the everyday life and challenges that children and families face. Additionally, as the founder of Heart in Home, a home décor and lifestyle boutique, I am bringing my passions for educating children and the family, together with my love for the home and living a healthy lifestyle. I believe that the home and family are a key part of the foundation for everything we do in life; this podcast aims to help you develop a home and lifestyle that will help you (and those you care about) grow in a healthy and purposeful way. Encouraging you to be intentional with your own life, behaviours and wellness to be a positive support and model for the young children in your life. Whether you are a parent, grandparent, aunt, uncle, god- parent or friend, you have an impact on the children around you. Each week in this show we will have a new guest and there will be a large focus on children and the family unit, while touching upon the connections to business, relationships, parenting, travel and my personal favourite FAITH!

Covering the ups and downs and the high and lows, our guests will dive into topics that are relatable, inspiring, encouraging and (my hope) motivating; nudging you to stop, reflect and make positive changes in your life to become more intentional for yourself and those around you.