Strength Happens - Real Friends. Real Talk. Real Life.

Strength Happens - Real Friends. Real Talk. Real Life.

When two moms met in a special needs classroom, they had no idea that their daughters' diagnoses would lead to a lifelong bond - or that they'd one day start a podcast about it. Strength Happens is a raw and honest conversation between two mothers navigating the world of complex parenting, caregiving, medical systems and everything in between. Through laughter, tears and truth, Janine and Jill share the moments that shaped them - the ones no one prepares for, but somehow you survive. If you have ever felt unseen in your parenting journey...pull up a chair. You're one of us now.

Episodes

November 25, 2025 50 mins

In this heartfelt episode, we sit down with Jill (the co-host of Strength Happens), the inspiring founder of The Halle Grace Foundation. Discover the touching story behind the foundation's inception, born from a promise to keep her daughter's legacy alive. Jill shares the mission of the foundation, which focuses on advancing education, support, and empowerment within the disability and medical communities. Tune in to learn ...

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In this heartfelt episode, Janine and Jill reflect on their journey as caregivers to medically complex children, discussing the emotional challenges, the importance of self-care, and the need for community support. They share personal stories of navigating healthcare systems, making tough medical decisions, and the weight of responsibility that comes with being a caregiver. Through their candid conversation, they emphasize the sign...

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In this episode, Jill and Janine discuss the challenges of caregiving and maintaining personal identity. They share personal stories, insights, and strategies for balancing caregiving responsibilities with personal dreams and passions.


Keywords:

caregiving, personal identity, balance, self-discovery, support


Takeaways:


  • Caregiving can consume your identity if not balanced.
  • Rediscovering oneself is crucial for personal ful...
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In this conversation, Janine and Jill explore the complexities of self-care, particularly for caregivers. They discuss the guilt associated with prioritizing one's own health, the importance of creative and budget-friendly self-care solutions, and the necessity of setting boundaries and asking for help. The dialogue emphasizes that self-care is not just about grand gestures but also about small, meaningful practices that contri...

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Summary


In this episode, Janine and Jill explore the multifaceted experience of caregiving, discussing the emotional challenges, the impact on relationships, and the importance of communication and support. They share personal stories and insights on navigating the complexities of caregiving, the significance of self-care, and the lessons learned along the way. The conversation emphasizes the need for community and the value of ...

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In this insightful episode of "Strength Happens," hosts Janine and Jill delve into the crucial process of transition planning for young adults with special needs. They share personal experiences and practical advice on starting early, exploring diverse post-graduation paths such as Adult Day Training and Vocational Rehabilitation, and addressing legal considerations like guardianship. Learn how to tailor a transition plan...

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In this episode, Janine and Jill discuss the unique challenges and considerations for families sending children with disabilities off to college. They explore the emotional aspects of college drop-off, the importance of finding the right college fit, and the various accommodations and support services available. The conversation emphasizes the need for independence, emergency preparedness, and the significance of communication and ...

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In this episode, Janine and Jill discuss the complexities of preparing children with disabilities for the back-to-school season. They share emotional and practical strategies for easing transitions, including the importance of routines, visual schedules, and effective communication with teachers. The conversation also covers the differences between IEPs and 504 plans, advocating for children's needs, and the significance of buildin...

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July 22, 2025 44 mins

In this episode of Strength Happens, hosts Janine and Jill share their experiences as mothers of children with disabilities, discussing the challenges of caregiving, coping strategies, and the importance of community support. They reflect on their coping mechanisms, and the significance of self-care and friendship in navigating the complexities of their journeys. Through candid conversations, they emphasize the need for personal gr...

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In this episode of Strength Happens, hosts Janine Harrity and Jill Heilman share their personal journeys as mothers of children with medical complexities. They discuss the emotional impact of diagnosis days, the challenges they faced, and the strength they found in advocating for their children. Through their stories, they aim to provide support and insight for other parents navigating similar experiences, emphasizing the importanc...

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June 30, 2025 35 mins

In this heartfelt conversation, Janine and Jill reflect on their long-standing friendship forged through shared experiences of parenting children with exceptional needs. They discuss the challenges they faced, the strength they found in each other, and the importance of community and self-care. The podcast aims to provide validation and support to others navigating similar journeys, emphasizing that strength comes in many forms and...

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