In this episode, I sit down with Ja’Bette, who shares her journey of becoming pregnant at 16 years old during her freshman year of college. She opens up about the stigma and challenges of being a pregnant teen, how it strained her family relationships — including a rift with her sister that lasted more than 25 years — and the determination it took to keep pursuing her dreams.

Ja’Bette reflects on the critical role of support, such as what she received from a college mentor and a teacher who believed in her when she needed it most. Because of that encouragement and her own persistence, she went on to complete multiple degrees, build a successful career, and dedicate part of her work to supporting teen and student parents.

Her story is a powerful reminder that pregnancy does not end possibility. Ja’Bette shares a message of hope for pregnant teens and young mothers everywhere: you can still follow your dreams — and achieve them.

Learn more about Ja'Bette and her company, Wishful Doing, here: https://wishfuldoings.com

Happy Early New Year! In today's episode, I sit down with Lacey, an attorney and mom of two. Lacey’s oldest son, Christian, was born with a rare medical condition of a cleft that extends up into the area of his eyes, resulting in blindness. She shares what it was like entering motherhood with a medically complex baby (while balancing being in law school!), the surgeries and systems they’ve navigated, and how Christian has grown into a confident, happy teenager who doesn’t let his disability limit his life.

Lacey shares about the importance of visibility, representation, and the belief that children like Christian deserve to be seen, celebrated, and treated like any other kid. Her younger son, Chandler, has autism and this has led to her having a very interesting experience of parenting kids with two types of disabilities - one you can see and one you cannot, and she shares how her sons have been treated differently due to this.

Her family's journey inspired Lacey’s professional path as well. Today, she works as an attorney advocating for clients with disabilities, drawing from her lived experience to challenge systems, break stigmas, and help families access the support they deserve.

This mama and her family are so incredible, and I'm honored to share her story as we begin the New Year!

Follow Lacey at:

@laceybuchanan on IG

Lacey Nicole Buchanan on FB

and at www.laceybuchanan.com

Trigger Warning: This episode discusses teen mental health struggles and a suicide attempt. Please listen with care and step away if you need to. Resources for support are listed at the end of these notes.In this deeply honest and courageous conversation, I sit down with Janelle, a mom who lived every parent’s worst fear: her teenage daughter, Noe, attempted to take her own life.

Janelle walks us through the time leading up to that terrifying moment—what Noe was experiencing, the anxiety she was battling, and the steps their family had already been taking to support her. From therapy to open conversations at home, Janelle was trying everything she knew how to do… yet things still escalated.

Janelle shares:

• The early signs that Noe was struggling and how her family, school, and medical providers were trying to help

• What happened the day of the suicide attempt and how their family reacted

• Navigating inpatient treatment—what helped, what surprised her, and what was hardest

• Life after crisis, including ongoing counseling, 24 hour watchfulness, and creating a safe environment

• How their family continues to support Noe, how healing is not linear, and the tools they rely on today

• Why Janelle wants other parents to know there is ZERO shame in asking for help and that they are not alone

This episode is a reminder that behind every strong family is a story—and no one has to face these struggles in silence.

If you or someone you know is struggling with thoughts of self-harm or suicide, please reach out for help immediately:

- 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline – Call or text 988

- Crisis Text Line – Text HOME to 741741

- Local emergency services or the nearest ER if you are in immediate danger

You are not alone. Support is available 24/7.