Future Planning Series:

“Welcome to Season 5” with Eric and Christen

Welcome Back for Season 5 of the Hope on the Hard Road podcast. We’re glad you joined us It’s going to be an incredible season! Don’t forget to subscribe so we you never miss an episode!! We have some really amazing guests on this season who many of you likely already know and follow! We have Chris Wenger otherwise known as “Speech Dude” joining us a little later on this year and coming up we have Heather Avis of “the Lucky Few Podcast” as well as a few other powerhouse friends joining us to celebrate Down Syndrome Awareness Month!

This is a great time to share a little bit about Hope on the Hard Road. For those who are new to the podcast, Hope on the Hard Road, Inc is a nonprofit based out of San Diego CA which Christen and I founded in 2019 with the mission to connect, encourage, and bring hope to families journeying on the special needs road. We understand what families are dealing with every day as they walk this road, because we are a family just like you.

Whether that looks like medical complexity, developmental disabilities, or neurodiversity we are here for you. We have lots of resources and supports uniquely designed to wrap around the family, including this incredible podcast which features interviews with experts in the special needs community and heartfelt family stories. Beyond the podcast we also host local events every month for dads, moms, couples, siblings, and the entire family. And if you’re not local – no worries- we’ve got support groups on line as well that you can join. And head on over to our YouTube channel after this podcast to check out our FREE library of webinars with experts on so many of the hot topics our families need to know about such as Self Determination and Future planning.

Speaking of future planning. This is what we’re going to be talking about for the next couple of weeks on the podcast. We hope this Future Planning Series will be a powerful guide to helping you all as you take next steps. Don’t forget to subscribe and we’ll see you back here for the next episode!

For a family raising a child with special needs, life can be difficult. There are many storms to weather and struggles to address, and we often feel isolated and alone due to the nature of our circumstances. Families have a need to connect and find resources, a need to be encouraged, and a need for hope as we walk down what can be a very hard road at times. Hope on the Hard Road Special Needs Podcast was created for this purpose. Our vision is to grow a thriving community, where families with children of all ages with special needs can feel connected, be encouraged, and find hope for the road ahead.

Connect with Us: If you enjoy this podcast please share us with others and be sure to follow us so won’t miss an episode. We’d love to hear from you so please leave us a comment or rating and connect with us on social media or on our website.

Email us: info@hopeonthehardroad.org

Website: https://hopeonthehardroad.org/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hopeonthehardroad/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hopeonthehardroad/

Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2621447987943459

Free Youtube Resource Library: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLsSAfvTkSy87X-fEqtVR2qvo7w9UQBuxz

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by guests on this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of Hope on the Hard Road, Inc. This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended as professional, medical, or legal advice.

“That’s a Wrap for Season 4!” with Eric and Christen Freund

Hey guys, That’s a wrap for season 4!

We had so many great episodes this season and we can’t wait for Season 5 starting in August! Guys, We can hardly believe we’re headed into year 5 of the podcast!

We have some incredible guests coming on this season, many of whom you likely already know and follow. So be sure to follow the podcast and our Youtube channel to catch all the new episodes in Season 5. You won’t want to miss any of this season coming up!

Speaking of this season coming up. If you or your business would like to sponsor an episode simply reach out to us at info@ hopeonthehardroad.org

And If you like this podcast send us a comment or rating, it really helps to push the podcast out there so that other families can find it and follow to hear heart felt family stories and expert insights from the special needs community.

Community is everything so with summer coming up don’t forget to stay involved. If you are here in the San Diego area be watching for our local events coming up like our Dads day Out and our Hope Community Events for families in June.

And whether you’re local, in another state, or abroad sign up for our monthly eblasts and follow us on social media to get the latest on resources and more.

We hope you all have an amazing summer! But first before we take a break we want to take some time to listen back to some highlights from Season 4!

Bio:

For a family raising a child with special needs, life can be difficult. There are many storms to weather and struggles to address, and we often feel isolated and alone due to the nature of our circumstances. Families have a need to connect and find resources, a need to be encouraged, and a need for hope as we walk down what can be a very hard road at times. Hope on the Hard Road Special Needs Podcast was created for this purpose. Our vision is to grow a thriving community, where families with children of all ages with special needs can feel connected, be encouraged, and find hope for the road ahead.

Connect with Us:

If you enjoy this podcast please share us with others and be sure to follow us so won’t miss an episode. We’d love to hear from you so please leave us a comment or rating and connect with us on social media or on our website.

Email us: info@hopeonthehardroad.org

Website: https://hopeonthehardroad.org/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hopeonthehardroad/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hopeonthehardroad/

Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2621447987943459

Free Youtube Resource Library: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLsSAfvTkSy87X-fEqtVR2qvo7w9UQBuxz

Mental Health Series

“Mental Health in Teens and Young Adults with Disabilities” with Cheryl Jordan

Today is the final episode of our Mental Health Series. We are thrilled that board director and licensed therapist, Cheryl Jordan could join us today for this informative discussion. It’s Mental Health Awareness Month and we’re talking about “Mental Health in Teens and Young Adults with Disabilities”. You’re gonna want to listen in as we talk about this very important topic. So lets get started!

Bio:

Cheryl Jordan is both a director on our board and a licenced therapist. She is happily married to Rob and mom to two adult children who faced various mental health challenges during their developmental years. Through the process of parenting her children, she and Rob sought help through mental health counseling, medical treatment, and educational support for her children. After 30 years as a physical therapist, she transitioned to a career in Mental Health Counseling. Her current specialties include helping children, teens, young adults, and their parents through play/art interventions and solution focused and behavioral therapies. She believes that her experiences as a parent gives her compassion for those who are struggling with anxiety, depression, learning challenges, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, and trauma. She and Rob currently live in St George, UT where she is employed as a Mental Health Counselor for Mountain View Family Therapy

Contacts:

Cheryl@hopeonthehardroad.org

For a family raising a child with special needs, life can be difficult. There are many storms to weather and struggles to address, and we often feel isolated and alone due to the nature of our circumstances. Families have a need to connect and find resources, a need to be encouraged, and a need for hope as we walk down what can be a very hard road at times. Hope on the Hard Road Special Needs Podcast was created for this purpose. Our vision is to grow a thriving community, where families with children of all ages with special needs can feel connected, be encouraged, and find hope for the road ahead. Connect with Us: If you enjoy this podcast please share us with others and be sure to follow us so won’t miss an episode. We’d love to hear from you so please leave us a comment or rating and connect with us on social media or on our website.

Email us: info@hopeonthehardroad.org

Website: https://hopeonthehardroad.org/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hopeonthehardroad/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hopeonthehardroad/

Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2621447987943459

Free Youtube Resource Library: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLsSAfvTkSy87X-fEqtVR2qvo7w9UQBuxz

Series: Mental Heath

“Mental Health for Families with Special Needs” with Elizabeth Strout

May is Mental Health Awareness Month. Studies show that individuals with disabilities, including children, experience higher rates of mental health distress and mental health disorders compared to those without disabilities. Today as we discuss this important topic we are excited to introduce you to Elizabeth Strout, licensed clinical social worker and clinic director of Ellie Mental Health San Diego. As a LCSW she values being a compassionate, inclusive, authentic leader, supporting persons of all ages and experiences with mental health needs for over 14 years. Let’s get started on our new series with today’s episode.

Bio:

Elizabeth (Liz) Strout is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Clinic Director of Ellie Mental Health San Diego. As a LCSW she values being a compassionate, inclusive, authentic leader, supporting persons of all ages and experiences in mental health need for over 14 years. Liz spent most of her career working in community mental health, providing care for the underserved populations. During this time, Liz oversaw county contracted programs serving 500-600 clients with 90+ full time employees. She has managed all levels of staff from direct care case managers, master’s level clinicians, team leads, clinical directors and program managers. Her focus is on collaborating with a network of organizations, community members and other Clinicians to improve access to care, break the stigma and provide quality mental health services to all of San Diego. She finds purpose in empowering each person with individual care on their recovery journey to reach their full potential. Day to day, Liz loves to spend time with her two Boston Terrier puppies, Luna and Winston.

Contacts:

https://www.facebook.com/people/Ellie-Mental-Health-Sorrento-Valley-Road-San-Diego-CA/61553120532942/

https://www.linkedin.com/company/ellie-mental-health-la-jolla-ca/posts/?feedView=all

https://www.instagram.com/elliementalhealth_sandiego/https://

www.tiktok.com/@elliementalhealthsd

https://www.tiktok.com/@elliementalhealthsd

For a family raising a child with special needs, life can be difficult. There are many storms to weather and struggles to address, and we often feel isolated and alone due to the nature of our circumstances. Families have a need to connect and find resources, a need to be encouraged, and a need for hope as we walk down what can be a very hard road at times. Hope on the Hard Road Special Needs Podcast was created for this purpose. Our vision is to grow a thriving community, where families with children of all ages with special needs can feel connected, be encouraged, and find hope for the road ahead.

Connect with Us:

If you enjoy this podcast please share us with others and be sure to follow us so won’t miss an episode. We’d love to hear from you so please leave us a comment or rating and connect with us on social media or on our website.

Email us: info@hopeonthehardroad.org

Website: https://hopeonthehardroad.org/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hopeonthehardroad/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hopeonthehardroad/

Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2621447987943459

Free Youtube Resource Library: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLsSAfvTkSy87X-fEqtVR2qvo7w9UQBuxz

Ministry Series:

“International Disability Ministry” with Linda Martin

We are so excited to have Linda Martin, Founder & President of Miracle 139 International, back on with us, for today’s podcast episode!

Linda is a Board-Certified Music Therapist, specializing in Autism Spectrum Disorders, behavior management, and music therapy assessment. With over two decades of experience, Linda has dedicated her career to improving the lives of children with disabilties and empowering those who support them.

As the Founder and President of Miracle 139 International, Linda has spearheaded efforts to equip leaders worldwide with the tools and knowledge necessary to build inclusive environments for children with disabilities. Through her work, she has helped churches across the U.S. develop special needs ministries and provided special education training internationally, across 4 continents.

Linda is passionate about the power of collaboration and believes that disability inclusion is the key to creating compassionate communities and a lasting impact around the world.

Lets listen in to todays conversation with our friend, Linda Martin

Bio:

Founder & President of Miracle 139 International, Linda Martin is a Board-Certified Music Therapist, specializing in Autism Spectrum Disorders, behavior management, and music therapy assessment. With over two decades of experience working with preschool and school-aged children, Linda has dedicated her career to improving the lives of children with disabilties and empowering those who support them. As the Founder and President of Miracle 139 International, Linda has spearheaded efforts to equip leaders worldwide with the tools and knowledge necessary to build inclusive environments for children with disabilities. Through her work, she has helped churches across the U.S. develop special needs ministries and provided special education training internationally, reaching communities across 4 continents. Linda is passionate about the power of collaboration and believes that disability inclusion is the key to creating compassionate communities. A published author and sought-after international trainer, she enjoys bringing teams of special education specialists together to share insights and foster lasting change. Linda holds a Master’s Degree in Music Therapy and is committed to continuing her efforts to promote inclusion and create positive, lasting impact around the world.

Contacts:

www.miracle139.com www.miracle139international.org facebook.com/miracle139international instagram.com/miracle139international

For a family raising a child with special needs, life can be difficult. There are many storms to weather and struggles to address, and we often feel isolated and alone due to the nature of our circumstances. Families have a need to connect and find resources, a need to be encouraged, and a need for hope as we walk down what can be a very hard road at times. Hope on the Hard Road Special Needs Podcast was created for this purpose. Our vision is to grow a thriving community, where families with children of all ages with special needs can feel connected, be encouraged, and find hope for the road ahead. Connect with Us: If you enjoy this podcast please share us with others and be sure to follow us so won’t miss an episode. We’d love to hear from you so please leave us a comment or rating and connect with us on social media or on our website.

Email us: info@hopeonthehardroad.org

Website: https://hopeonthehardroad.org/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hopeonthehardroad/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hopeonthehardroad/

Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2621447987943459

Free Youtube Resource Library: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLsSAfvTkSy87X-fEqtVR2qvo7w9UQBuxz

Disability Ministry Series

'Autism and the Church' with Pastor Russ Ewell

Welcome back to the Podcast. Today we have Russ Ewell, lead pastor of Bay Area Christian Church and father of two children with special needs as our guest. As a father and an advocate in the special needs community he understands the need for creating inclusive environments for our children. As a Pastor, he and his wife have launched a free, step-by-step guide to help leaders begin or grow this ministry at their church. He knows that many Pastors are interested in serving the special needs community, but lack the resources to make this a reality and is meeting the need with this resource.

In addition, Russ has create E-Sports and E-Life which are inclusive community programs enabling kids with special needs to participate in sports and activities alongside their peers.

As we approaching Autism awareness month, Russ brings a fresh perspective of what is possible for individuals special needs and the greater community. Let’s listen in as we join Russ.

BIO

Russ Ewell is Executive Minister of the Bay Area Christian Church. A minister for more than 40 years, Russ’s teaching is rooted in providing hope for those turned off by tradition, and infused with vision for building the transformative church for which the 21st century public hungers.

Contacts: BACC Website: bacc.cc

For a family raising a child with special needs, life can be difficult. There are many storms to weather and struggles to address, and we often feel isolated and alone due to the nature of our circumstances. Families have a need to connect and find resources, a need to be encouraged, and a need for hope as we walk down what can be a very hard road at times. Hope on the Hard Road Special Needs Podcast was created for this purpose. Our vision is to grow a thriving community, where families with children of all ages with special needs can feel connected, be encouraged, and find hope for the road ahead. Connect with Us: If you enjoy this podcast please share us with others and be sure to follow us so won’t miss an episode. We’d love to hear from you so please leave us a comment or rating and connect with us on social media or on our website.

Email us: info@hopeonthehardroad.org

Website: https://hopeonthehardroad.org/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hopeonthehardroad/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hopeonthehardroad/

Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2621447987943459

Free Youtube Resource Library: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLsSAfvTkSy87X-fEqtVR2qvo7w9UQBuxz

Family Series

'Motherhood & Special Needs' with Becky Wall

Welcome back. On this episode the focus is on moms. As moms we have our own unique stories to share. And as we approach World Down Syndrome Day, we are delighted to have Becky Wall on with us again to share her story as a mom of a son diagnosed with both Down Syndrome and Autism. Becky works for FamilyLife as a field staff leader serving families and moms connected to disability, and on this episode she and I really enjoyed getting to catch up mom to mom. Let’s get the conversation started.

Bio:

Becky is married to Garett and they have two children, Lily (14) and Isaac (12). Shortly after their son Isaac was born they received the news that Isaac had Down Syndrome. Just before the age of 10, Isaac was diagnosed with Autism as well. Becky serves part-time with FamilyLife - a ministry of Cru (Campus Crusade for Christ) and is a Field Staff Leader serving families and moms connected to disability. Her prayer is to create spaces for families touched by disability to hear the hope of the Gospel and find purpose in growing God’s kingdom with the life He has given them. A graduate of University of Louisville, Becky has been on staff with Cru (Campus Crusade for Christ) for 21 years. She served 20 years with the college campus ministry and this past year moved over to FamilyLife - a Cru ministry. A native of Troy, Michigan, Becky is married to Garett and they have two children, Lily and Isaac. They currently reside in Louisville, KY. Isaac.

Contacts:

Becky Wall

www.FamilyLife.com

For a family raising a child with special needs, life can be difficult. There are many storms to weather and struggles to address, and we often feel isolated and alone due to the nature of our circumstances. Families have a need to connect and find resources, a need to be encouraged, and a need for hope as we walk down what can be a very hard road at times. Hope on the Hard Road Special Needs Podcast was created for this purpose. Our vision is to grow a thriving community, where families with children of all ages with special needs can feel connected, be encouraged, and find hope for the road ahead. Connect with Us: If you enjoy this podcast please share us with others and be sure to follow us so won’t miss an episode. We’d love to hear from you so please leave us a comment or rating and connect with us on social media or on our website.

Email us: info@hopeonthehardroad.org

Website: https://hopeonthehardroad.org/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hopeonthehardroad/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hopeonthehardroad/

Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2621447987943459

Free Youtube Resource Library: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLsSAfvTkSy87X-fEqtVR2qvo7w9UQBuxz