• Episode 040 - Adopting a Baby with Down syndrome
    Mar 25 2021

    Ellie Sanazaro is a mom to three, one of which has an extra chromosome, and is the author of the new book Image Bearer!  In today's episode Ellie shares about the adoption process when adopting a child with Down syndrome.  Through all of the pitfalls and uncertainties, Ellie knew God would bring them through, and he truly blessed their Upside Down family with their son, Finn!

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    28 mins
  • Episode 039 - Celebrating World Down Syndrome Day
    Mar 23 2021

    Season one of The Upside Down Family Podcast is coming to a close on Thursday!  In today's episode we share how we celebrated World Down syndrome Day this year, and share one big take away from season one.  Thank you for being part of the Upside Down Family!

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    8 mins
  • Episode 038 - Art of the Heart: Building Bonds and Making Music
    Mar 18 2021

    With his life already feeling chaotic, Jesse learned that his new baby girl not only has Down syndrome, but would also need a heart surgery.  It was a tailspin, and he found himself struggling to connect with his daughter.  But as he cared for her, he determined he would fight for her.

    This resolve led to Jesse writing and recording an album about this  journey, and how he and his daughter built bridges.  Listen in to my conversation with Jesse Norell!

    Visit https://jessenorell.bandcamp.com

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    33 mins
  • Episode 037 - The Value of Your Story
    Mar 16 2021

    Phil Martin (Kyle's Dad) speaks and writes about life and business principles, and to celebrate his new book "Take the Stage: 64 Essential Leadership Lessons Learned from Theatre" I interview him on some (not all 64) of those principles.  He dives into the importance of your story, going beyond communicating to truly connecting, to inviting the audience into the story, and finally defining success.

    Dad has a rich and storied history, and I'm so glad I get to share him with you.  Enjoy this conversation with Phil Martin!

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    19 mins
  • Episode 036 - Passing a Non Discrimination Law, and How to Pray about a Diagnosis
    Mar 11 2021

    People with disabilities were often denied access to transplant lists... Until superheroes like Rachel Anderson came along!  Calebs law is helping people with differing abilities have equal rights to organ transplant lists, and its amazing work.  Rachel shares this and more in todays episode!

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    19 mins
  • Grandma's Advice for Heart Surgery
    Mar 9 2021

    Not many people are invited into the inner circle when a baby has heart surgery.  Parents anxiously wait for updates and then news that their little one was moved to a room for recovery.  But Grandma Carol was there with us, mom and dad, as we waited for and prayed over Evie as she underwent open heart surgery.  Her advice is poignant and her story is beautiful, listen in and enjoy!

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    19 mins
  • Episode 034 - Tips and Tricks from an Occupational Therapist
    Mar 4 2021

    Jaclyn is a friend that we reconnected with after almost 12 years of not seeing each other!  She has a beautiful family, a thriving blog, and a passion for working in occupational therapy, especially with individuals with differing abilities.  We hear so often about limitations that come with a Down syndrome diagnosis, but Jaclyn some very tangible tips, and the reason behind encouraging certain exercises and practices.  Enjoy this conversation with Jaclyn Bender!

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    27 mins
  • Episode 033 - The Mindset and Story Behind Embracing Our Adventure
    Mar 2 2021

    Where did the name "Upside Down Family" come from?  What does it mean?  Today Erin shares some background info and stories about The Upside Down Family, and the mindset we had as we began to embrace our adventure.  Plus Erin talks about some of the things families need to be aware of as they share their story and their life on the public forum of social media.  Thank you for being part of the Upside Down Family!

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    15 mins