n this powerful episode of Conquering Your Clownfish, Misty Coy Snyder sits down with therapist and author Amanda Griffith-Atkins, a mother navigating the complex realities of raising a child with Prader-Willi syndrome. Amanda opens up about the raw, unfiltered side of parenting a child with high support needs—the medical trauma that fuels hypervigilance, the guilt that creeps in with every “what if,” and the damaging weight of toxic positivity. She shares hard-earned wisdom from her new book, encouraging parents to allow space for grief and honest emotions while also carving out moments of joy beyond parenting. Through heartfelt stories and practical strategies like micro self-care and redefining success around love and safety (not milestones), Amanda offers a lifeline of hope and validation for families walking a similar path.
What happens when the picture-perfect plan of motherhood is shattered by an unexpected diagnosis? In this raw and revealing episode, Ashley Stringham opens up about the moment she learned her son Carter had Down syndrome — a moment that brought shock, grief, and an overwhelming sense of isolation. With brutal honesty, Ashley shares the emotional rollercoaster of denial, heartbreak, and eventual acceptance, inviting us into the messy, beautiful reality of parenting a child with special needs.
But this isn’t just a story about Carter. It’s a call to every mother who’s ever felt like she had to hold it all together. Ashley explores the often-unspoken truth that self-care isn’t selfish — it’s survival. That it’s okay to cry. That it’s okay to grieve. And that progress, not perfection, is what real motherhood looks like.
Through the power of community, Ashley found healing in the stories of other special needs moms. Her message is clear: advocacy begins at home, and joy can be found in the smallest victories — if we’re brave enough to stop comparing and start embracing the journey we didn’t expect.
This episode will challenge the narrative, crack open your heart, and remind you that sometimes the most unexpected detours lead to the most profound love.
In this episode of Conquering Your Clownfish, hosts Misty Coy Snyder, Ela, and Larry invite listeners into the raw and radiant journey of raising their daughter with Down syndrome—one that shattered their expectations, exposed the fear-based narratives still dominating the medical world, and ultimately gave rise to a global advocacy movement rooted in art.
What began as confusion and isolation quickly transformed into connection and purpose. Ela and Larry didn’t just find beauty in their daughter—they captured it, painted it, and put it on display for the world to see. Through their art, they’ve made it impossible to look away from the truth: children with Down syndrome are not a tragedy to grieve, but a light to follow.
They speak openly about the way limitations—imposed by doctors, systems, even well-meaning friends—can quietly crush potential. They spotlight the often-overlooked role of fathers, the fierce empathy that grows in siblings, and the community that every family deserves but so few actually find.
This episode doesn’t sugarcoat the journey. Instead, it flips the script: what if the “hard news” isn’t the diagnosis, but the lies we’re told about what that diagnosis means? What if the real disability is in how society chooses to see?
If you've ever been afraid of the unknown, or wondered how to turn pain into purpose—this one is for you.
What if the child you thought couldn’t understand you had been listening all along?
In this powerful episode of Conquering Your Clown Fish, Betsy Hicks-Russ—mother, advocate, and director of Autism Odyssey—opens up about her journey parenting Joey, a young man with non-speaking autism. For years, she was told Joey couldn’t comprehend the world around him. But everything changed when they discovered spelling to communicate—a method that unlocked Joey’s voice and transformed their entire relationship.
Betsy challenges the narrative that non-speaking means non-thinking. With fierce honesty and vulnerability, she shares how the vest Joey wears in public serves as more than a tool for safety—it’s a call for empathy in a world that too often makes assumptions. She dives into why society still underestimates people like Joey, and why it’s time we stop.
This conversation is a wake-up call to parents, educators, and anyone who’s ever judged what they didn’t understand. It’s also a love letter to the caregivers who keep showing up, even when Plan A fails—and who discover miracles in Plan B.
What if everything the world told you about disability was wrong?
In this powerful episode, Mitch Holeve shares the raw and transformative journey of raising his son Garrett, a trailblazer with Down syndrome who defied every limit—including stepping into the cage as a mixed martial artist. Mitch unpacks the emotional highs and societal hurdles of parenting a child with disabilities, exposing outdated perceptions and advocating for a world that expects more because our kids are capable of more.
From volunteering at Eunie's Buddies and mentoring new parents, Mitch challenges us to stop settling for sympathy and start building support systems that empower. This episode is a call to action—for positivity, for inclusion, and for a shift in how we define success, strength, and belonging.
To learn more about Eunie's Buddies, visit HERE.
What if the very thing you feared most became the source of your deepest joy?
In this raw and unfiltered episode, Amanda Ellard—mother, author, and fierce advocate—opens up about the life-altering journey of raising a child with Down syndrome. She doesn’t sugarcoat it. The grief is real. The trauma is real. But so is the joy—piercing, profound, and often found in the most unexpected places.
Amanda speaks to the quiet battles adoptive parents face: the emotional exhaustion, the fear of failure, the invisible weight of parenting children with trauma. She challenges the narrative that love is always easy—revealing how trust must be earned, how vulnerability is non-negotiable, and how therapy and self-care are not luxuries but lifelines.
This episode is a rallying cry: Every child—especially those the world too often overlooks—is worthy of celebration, belonging, and relentless advocacy. And perhaps the greatest transformation isn’t just in the child... but in us.
In this raw and riveting episode of Conquering Your Clown Fish, host Brady Murray sits down with Tim Ashcraft—Army aviator, father of four, and reluctant member of a club no parent asks to join: the parents of a child with a life-changing diagnosis. When Tim and his wife Ashley learned their youngest, Finley, would be born with Down syndrome, their world shifted in an instant. What followed wasn’t a tragedy—it was a transformation.
With unflinching honesty, Tim shares the emotional rollercoaster of receiving Finley’s diagnosis, the weight of uncertainty, and the unexpected beauty that emerged on the other side. He opens up about the sacred power of faith, the fierce importance of community, and the real, messy, miraculous moments of parenting a child with special needs. From celebrating milestones most overlook to grappling with the complexities of family dynamics and adoption, Tim’s story challenges cultural assumptions about what makes a life valuable.
This episode isn’t just about Down syndrome—it’s about what happens when you let go of the life you imagined and embrace the one you’ve been given. It’s about the kind of love that stretches you, surprises you, and ultimately saves you.
Prepare to be moved, challenged, and reminded that sometimes the greatest gifts come wrapped in uncertainty.
What if the stories the world needs most are the ones we rarely see on screen?
In this powerful episode, we sit down with David and Jackson Hughens—a father-son filmmaking team on a mission to challenge the status quo of storytelling. Their journey began not on a film set, but in the heart of a community too often overlooked: individuals with Down syndrome. What started as a personal connection evolved into a calling—to create films that don’t just include people with disabilities, but center them as heroes, artists, and changemakers.
From intimate mini-documentaries to the ambitious development of a feature film inspired by the magnetic and unforgettable Jay, the Hughens are flipping the script on what Hollywood thinks audiences want. They speak candidly about the uphill battle to secure funding, the emotional weight of telling stories that matter, and how their time in Armenia deepened their understanding of the global need for adoption and advocacy.
This episode isn’t just about filmmaking—it’s about demanding better from media, amplifying underrepresented voices, and proving that individuals with Down syndrome don’t need to be “fixed” or pitied. They need to be seen.
What if the world saw people with disabilities for who they really are—not as limitations to be pitied, but as leaders, change-makers, and warriors of hope?
In this powerful episode of See the Miracle, Brady Murray sits down with Katie Haynes, founder and CEO of Smiling While Sending Hope. Born from Katie’s own journey with chronic illness, this nonprofit is shaking up how we support and uplift individuals with disabilities. Katie opens up about her struggles, her triumphs, and the unshakable belief that every person—regardless of diagnosis—deserves dignity, purpose, and opportunity.
From the confidence she gained through 4-H to the bold vision she’s building today, Katie doesn’t just talk about advocacy—she lives it. With faith as her compass and community as her fuel, she’s challenging the status quo and calling out a world that too often overlooks the strength, intelligence, and value of people with disabilities.
Katie’s dream to become a motivational speaker is more than a goal—it’s a movement. One voice. One message. Thousands of lives waiting to be seen.
This episode is a wake-up call to rethink ability, reimagine leadership, and recognize the power of choosing purpose over pity.
In this powerful episode, Wendy Hooton opens up about the raw and real journey of raising her son Matt, who has Down syndrome. As a single mother, she faced overwhelming fears—not just about her son’s future, but about whether she could give him the life he deserved. From battling societal misconceptions to navigating the complexities of dating as a special needs parent, Wendy shares the deeply personal moments that shaped her into the fierce advocate she is today.
Her story is one of radical acceptance, unconditional love, and the transformative power of community. At the Dear Mom Conference, Wendy found not only healing but a tribe of mothers who reminded her that vulnerability is strength. She reflects on Matt’s incredible progress and the importance of celebrating each child’s path without comparison or shame.
Wendy doesn’t sugarcoat the hard stuff—divorce, isolation, the fear of adulthood—but she also doesn’t let it steal the joy. She urges other parents to stop apologizing for their children’s differences and instead, start building a life filled with laughter, connection, and bold hope. Because the truth is: the world is still catching up to what parents like Wendy have known all along—kids like Matt are not a burden; they’re the revolution.
What if everything the world assumes about disability is wrong? In this powerful episode, Pete Larkin invites us into the sacred, often overlooked bond between siblings—one shaped by unconditional love, grit, and a radical rethinking of what it means to live a meaningful life. Pete shares his journey growing up alongside his brother Brigham, who has Down syndrome, and how caregiving, once seen as a burden, became his greatest teacher.
Their story challenges the narrative that individuals with disabilities need to be "rescued" or "protected." Instead, Pete speaks to the strength, independence, and unapologetic joy Brigham embodies—reminding us that shielding people from struggle can rob them of growth. Through Brigham’s vibrant personality, infectious kindness, and the generational wisdom he unknowingly passes down, we’re forced to ask: are we underestimating the very people we should be learning from?
What happens when life throws you a plot twist that shifts your entire worldview? In this powerful episode, Devon Dowdell — a proud father, passionate ufologist, and deep thinker — shares the raw, beautiful, and deeply human journey of raising his son Jack, who was born with Down syndrome.
Devon opens up about receiving Jack’s diagnosis over the phone while away for work — a moment that shattered expectations but sparked an awakening. He speaks candidly about the emotional weight of that day, the fear of the unknown, and the transformation that came through love, acceptance, and presence. Devon doesn’t shy away from hard truths — about fatherhood, about societal pressure to "fix" what's different, and about the grief that often precedes joy.
But this isn't a story about sadness — it's a celebration. A reminder that the things we fear the most can become the greatest blessings. Devon’s perspective challenges conventional narratives around disability, masculinity, and what it means to show up — not with perfection, but with heart.
It’s honest. It’s bold. And it might just change how you see parenthood, purpose, and what truly matters.
What if the hardest thing you've ever faced as a parent turned out to be the most transformative?
In this powerful episode, Angela O’Brien—mother, Enneagram coach, and unapologetic truth-teller—opens up about raising a daughter with Down syndrome and how the experience shattered her expectations… and rebuilt her in the best way possible. Angela doesn’t sugarcoat the challenges of parenting a child with disabilities. From grief and isolation to identity loss and the pressure to “always be strong,” she dives deep into the emotional weight families carry—especially mothers.
But through that struggle comes beauty: unexpected friendships, deeply empathetic siblings, and the chance to rediscover who you are beyond caregiving. Angela reminds us that community isn’t optional—it’s oxygen. And that pretending everything’s fine helps no one.
If you’re ready to challenge the polished narratives of disability parenting and embrace the raw, beautiful, and often misunderstood reality—this conversation is for you.
What If Being a “Strong Dad” Is Actually Hurting Your Family?
In this raw and revealing episode of Conquering the Clown Fish, host Brady Murray sits down with Graham Andrews—a father of three and proud dad to Andy, his daughter with Down syndrome—for a conversation that challenges everything we think we know about fatherhood. Graham opens up about the gut-wrenching moment he received Andy’s diagnosis and the emotional rollercoaster that followed.
But this isn’t your typical “inspirational parent” story. Graham gets real about the pressure men face to be stoic providers, the myth of control in parenting, and how vulnerability—not strength—became his greatest asset. He credits his transformation to the everyday lessons Andy teaches him, the unwavering support of his own parents, and a journey that’s been as confusing as it’s been beautiful.
This episode dares to ask: what if the best thing a father can do is break down, ask for help, and stop pretending he’s got it all figured out?
What if the most heartbreaking diagnosis became your life’s greatest teacher?
In this powerful episode of Conquering Your Clown Fish, host Brady Murray sits down with Jillian Arnold—a mother, caregiver, and unapologetic warrior for the rare disease community. When her son Roman was diagnosed with ASMD, a rare and devastating genetic disorder, Jillian was already pregnant with her second child, Stella—who would later be diagnosed with the same condition.
Instead of surrendering to grief, Jillian chose a radical path: one of relentless advocacy, deep community connection, and fierce joy. She challenges the idea that parents of children with disabilities should only be pitied. Instead, she shows us they are the strongest experts in the room, forced to navigate complex systems, fight for treatment access, and still find laughter and light in the darkest places.
This episode isn’t just about rare disease. It’s about turning pain into power, about rejecting the pity narrative, and about redefining what it means to live a joyful life—on your own terms.
In this powerful and eye-opening conversation, Silvia Almond lays bare the raw, unfiltered reality of parenting a child with Down syndrome. She doesn’t sugarcoat the initial shock, the overwhelming panic, or the crippling anxiety that followed Jordan’s diagnosis. Instead, she boldly confronts the uncomfortable truths society often avoids: the fear of the unknown and the heavy responsibility of raising a child who defies expectations.
Silvia’s story is not just one of personal transformation but a call to challenge outdated narratives around disability and family. She reveals how Jordan shattered their preconceived notions, not by conforming to societal standards, but by thriving unapologetically in his own way. His infectious spirit and undeniable charisma have not only reshaped family dynamics but have also forced them to reconsider what success and happiness truly look like.
Silvia’s journey shows that the real struggle is not in raising a child with Down syndrome, but in breaking free from society’s pity-driven perspectives and embracing the pure, transformative love that only a child like Jordan can bring. Her story proves that children with Down syndrome are not just surviving—they are thriving, leading lives filled with friends, joy, and potential that the world too often underestimates.
This episode challenges listeners to rethink how they view children with disabilities, daring them to go beyond surface-level acceptance to a deeper understanding and admiration for their strengths and individuality. Silvia’s story is a battle cry for radical love, fierce advocacy, and the courage to reject limiting beliefs.
Breaking Barriers and Redefining Strength with Camille Robinson
On this unfiltered episode of Conquering Your Clownfish, we dive into the raw and powerful journey of Camille Robinson—a mother, podcast host, and relentless community force. Camille's story isn’t just about raising her son, Mason, who lives with congenital heart disease and autism—it’s about shattering expectations, defying the odds, and proving that adversity doesn’t define your destiny.
From surviving an abusive relationship as a young mother to reclaiming her power through faith and community, Camille refuses to let society dictate her story. She gets candid about the brutal realities of raising a child with disabilities—the toll on mental health, the impact on marriage, and the unspoken struggles that many families face but few dare to talk about.
This conversation isn’t just about parenting; it’s about dismantling outdated narratives and showing up fiercely for the ones we love. Camille shares the pivotal moments that transformed her into an unshakable advocate for special needs families and why she believes that waiting for support isn’t an option—you have to build it yourself.
She also gives us an inside look at Moments of Joy Fest, a groundbreaking event dedicated to uplifting families who often feel unseen, and her upcoming book, 100 Days of Encouragement for Families Raising Children with Special Needs—a must-read for anyone seeking hope, resilience, and unapologetic truth.
This episode will challenge your perspectives, ignite your determination, and remind you that real strength isn’t about having it all together—it’s about refusing to give up.
Breaking Barriers: The Unstoppable Journey of Caleb Prewitt
In this electrifying episode, Brady Murray sits down with Karen Prewitt, the fierce and determined momager behind Caleb Prewitt, a trailblazing athlete and entrepreneur who just happens to have Down syndrome. Karen shares the raw, unfiltered truth about raising a child society often underestimates—challenging outdated mindsets and proving that limitations exist only where we allow them.
Caleb has shattered expectations, from becoming the youngest person with Down syndrome to complete a half marathon to launching his own business, Caleb’s Cookies. But their story isn’t just about personal victories—it’s about rewriting the narrative for individuals with disabilities. Karen unapologetically calls out the lack of opportunities and systemic barriers, advocating for a world where people with disabilities are seen as capable, ambitious, and worthy of the same dreams as anyone else.
The conversation dives deep into the importance of community support, the power of mentorship, and the bold belief that no one—not doctors, not schools, not even well-meaning parents—should dictate the limits of a child’s potential. As Caleb transitions into adulthood, Karen envisions a future filled with independence, adventure, and possibilities that defy every outdated stereotype.
This episode will challenge you to rethink what you believe about ability, ambition, and what it truly means to live without limits.
Breaking Barriers in Faith, Disability, and Inclusion
In this powerful episode of Conquering Your Clownfish, host Brady Murray sits down with Monica Mangiacapra—an author, advocate, and mother who is reshaping the conversation around disability and faith. Inspired by her son Isaac, who has Down syndrome, Monica wrote Different by Design, a children’s book that challenges outdated narratives and educates young minds about disabilities in a way that fosters understanding rather than pity.
This episode doesn’t shy away from the hard truths: many families of children with disabilities feel excluded from church communities, often forced to leave due to a lack of accommodation. Monica calls for bold action—churches must stop seeing disability as a burden and start embracing it as an opportunity for radical inclusion. Her story of self-publishing Different by Design is proof that stepping into discomfort and breaking traditional molds can open unexpected doors of impact.
Monica’s journey is a wake-up call to parents, educators, and faith leaders: disabilities are not limitations; they are purposeful, designed differences that enrich our communities. She encourages all of us to ask tough questions, challenge the status quo, and create spaces where every child—regardless of ability—is seen, valued, and celebrated.
This episode will leave you inspired and maybe even a little uncomfortable—in the best way possible. Are we truly building inclusive spaces, or just offering performative support? It’s time for action, and Monica is leading the charge.
The Uncomfortable Truth About Purpose and Perseverance
In this powerful episode, Brady Murray sits down with Cathy Daub—a mother of eight, fierce advocate, and co-founder of Team Iron Will—to challenge society’s perception of value and purpose. Cathy shares the raw, unfiltered story of her son Will’s birth, a journey marked by both medical challenges and undeniable miracles. She refuses to see Down syndrome as a limitation, instead embracing it as a divine calling to disrupt the status quo.
This conversation forces us to ask: Do we truly believe that every life has value, or only the ones that fit our expectations? Cathy’s unwavering faith and relentless advocacy push back against a world that often measures worth in terms of productivity rather than purpose. Her story is a call to action—one that demands we rethink how we support, uplift, and fight for individuals with disabilities.
