In this inspiring episode of Our Forever Smiles, host Laura Arroyo is joined by Katie Manning, a trauma coach, artist, teacher, and cleft mom whose work is reshaping how we understand the emotional landscape of cleft parenting. Katie opens up about her experience raising a child with a cleft while also being married to someone who is cleft affected. Together, they discuss the internal tension Katie faced when sharing stories that weren’t fully her own and how she ultimately found purpose in building a platform for healing and connection.
Katie shares the heart behind launching The 100 Cleft Portrait Exhibition, the first of its kind, and the powerful stories it brings to light. She also offers insight into trauma coaching and how she supports families navigating the complex relationship between cleft and emotional well-being.
This episode is a moving exploration of storytelling, resilience, and the importance of tending to our own healing as we support our children.
Links and Resources:
- Katie Manning on Instagram
- Tickets to the 100 Cleft Portrait Exhibition
- Patreon Subscription Tiers for Exclusive Content
- Our Forever Smiles Merch Store
- NC Cleft Mom FB Group
- Our Forever Smiles FB Group
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