321. What We Wish We’d Known (And What We’re Still Learning)

January felt heavy. So instead of pretending we had it all figured out, we talked honestly about what we wish we’d known earlier.

In this kickoff episode of What We Wish We’d Known, Heather, Micah, and Mercedes reflect on lessons that only come with time, experience, and a lot of unlearning.

In this episode, we talk about:

  • Letting go of milestone pressure and early parenting anxiety

  • Assuming competence and unlearning ableism

  • Rethinking inclusion (and why it’s not one-size-fits-all)

  • AAC, communication, and access to real support

  • Identity, personality, and allowing our kids to lead

  • The tension between advocacy, community, and real life

  • Why the goal was never to raise a “poster child” — just a whole human

This episode is part reflection and part reset. Whether you’re brand new or years into this journey, we hope it gives you permission to breathe, recalibrate, and keep learning.

💛 DM us what you wish you’d known — and what you want us to cover this season.

 

CONNECT WITH THE PODCAST

CONNECT WITH HEATHER AVIS

CONNECT WITH MERCEDES LARA

CONNECT WITH MICHA BOYETT

SHOW NOTES

  • Check out AbleNet, an assistive technology company that helps families access AAC devices quickly, often handling insurance and paperwork on their behalf.

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Email hello@theluckyfewpodcast.com with your questions and Good News or Shout Outs for future episodes.

GeneralValerie SchliederDown Syndrome, Advocacy, Education, independence, inclusionComment