In this heartfelt episode of Words of Wisdom from Kick-Ass Women, host Liz Brohan is joined by special co-host Mary Tobiason—Ironman World Champion and founder of Movement Perfected—for a powerful conversation about identity, empathy, and finding your voice.

Their guests are award-winning children’s author Lori Orlinsky and her daughter Ellie, co-creators of the book Being Middle, which reclaims the often-misunderstood experience of being a middle child. What began as Ellie feeling “lost in the shuffle” between siblings became a collaborative, empowering storytelling journey that reframed the narrative from “stuck in the middle” to “I get to be in the middle.”

The conversation explores how literature can help children process big emotions, celebrate differences, and build confidence. Lori shares how her books—many inspired directly by her children—have resonated far beyond her own family, including deeply moving moments reading to patients at Lurie Children’s Hospital. Ellie, meanwhile, reflects on how the book helped her embrace her role as a bridge-builder, helper, and leader at school.

With humor, vulnerability, and wisdom from fellow middle children, this episode reminds parents, leaders, and kids alike that being seen—and truly listened to—can change everything.

📚 Resources & References Mentioned

1. Being Middle by Lori Orlinsky
2. Being Small by Lori Orlinsky
3. Lurie Children’s Hospital (Chicago)

Highlight Quotes

1. “You’re not stuck in the middle—you get to be in the middle. That’s power.” — Ellie
2. “Stop parenting the child you had and start parenting the child you have.” — Lori Orlinsky
3. “Everything in life is a ‘get to.’ Find the glimmers and choose gratitude.” — Mary Tobiason

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