Ashley Lytle never imagined her second pregnancy would lead to a NICU stay, a rare diagnosis, and a complete redefinition of motherhood. In this powerful episode of B+, Ashley—who is also Krista’s cousin—opens up about the moment everything changed, from a routine ultrasound to delivering her son Connor 7 weeks early under life-threatening circumstances.
What followed was months of uncertainty, hospital equipment, and a diagnosis so rare it didn’t even have a clear roadmap. Ashley shares what it was like to grieve the life she imagined, to care for a baby she was afraid to bond with, and to become a full-time medical advocate while still trying to be present for her daughter, Kaylee.
This is a story of survival, fierce love, and unexpected joy. From tears in the NICU to baby giggles on a family walk, Ashley takes us through every raw, real, and redemptive step of her journey.
If you’ve ever faced a future you didn’t choose, this episode is for you.
Takeaways
- Grief can come from losing the future you imagined.
- NICU life is emotionally and physically overwhelming.
- Parents often become full-time medical advocates overnight.
- Bonding with a medically fragile baby can take time.
- Support from nurses and community makes a difference.
- You can still be the family you want to be—just differently.
- Diagnoses can change, but your child’s spirit remains.
- Resilience is found in the everyday moments.
- Connor’s joy reminds us that hope lives alongside uncertainty.
About B+ with Krista Gregg
In B+, host Krista Gregg sits down with people who’ve faced life’s messiest, most meaningful moments—and kept going. From unexpected struggles to hard-won growth, each guest shares what they’ve learned about resilience, purpose, and the power of real connection.
This podcast doesn’t promise perfection. It celebrates the process.
Produced by Bright Sky House — bringing hidden stories to light.
Mental Health Resources
- 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988 for free, 24/7, confidential support for mental health crises, suicidal thoughts, or emotional distress.
- Find a Therapist: Search for licensed therapists near you through directories like Psychology Today, TherapyDen, or Mental Health Match.
- Join a Support Group: Connect with others through peer-led or professionally facilitated support groups via NAMI or GriefShare.
Stay Connected with B+
Instagram: @BrightSkyHouse
Facebook: Bright Sky House
YouTube: Bright Sky House Official
LinkedIn: Bright Sky House
If you have questions or would like to follow-up with any of our guests, reach out to Hello@BrightSkyHouse.com.
B+ is available wherever you listen to podcasts.
Popular Podcasts
New Heights with Jason & Travis Kelce
Football’s funniest family duo — Jason Kelce of the Philadelphia Eagles and Travis Kelce of the Kansas City Chiefs — team up to provide next-level access to life in the league as it unfolds. The two brothers and Super Bowl champions drop weekly insights about the weekly slate of games and share their INSIDE perspectives on trending NFL news and sports headlines. They also endlessly rag on each other as brothers do, chat the latest in pop culture and welcome some very popular and well-known friends to chat with them. Check out new episodes every Wednesday. Follow New Heights on the Wondery App, YouTube or wherever you get your podcasts. You can listen to new episodes early and ad-free, and get exclusive content on Wondery+. Join Wondery+ in the Wondery App, Apple Podcasts or Spotify. And join our new membership for a unique fan experience by going to the New Heights YouTube channel now!
Dateline NBC
Current and classic episodes, featuring compelling true-crime mysteries, powerful documentaries and in-depth investigations. Follow now to get the latest episodes of Dateline NBC completely free, or subscribe to Dateline Premium for ad-free listening and exclusive bonus content: DatelinePremium.com
On Purpose with Jay Shetty
I’m Jay Shetty host of On Purpose the worlds #1 Mental Health podcast and I’m so grateful you found us. I started this podcast 5 years ago to invite you into conversations and workshops that are designed to help make you happier, healthier and more healed. I believe that when you (yes you) feel seen, heard and understood you’re able to deal with relationship struggles, work challenges and life’s ups and downs with more ease and grace. I interview experts, celebrities, thought leaders and athletes so that we can grow our mindset, build better habits and uncover a side of them we’ve never seen before. New episodes every Monday and Friday. Your support means the world to me and I don’t take it for granted — click the follow button and leave a review to help us spread the love with On Purpose. I can’t wait for you to listen to your first or 500th episode!