Born Different, Not Broken

Reopening the podcast. I've been away for a while.

If I’d had an IEP, it might’ve said…Student ProfileThe student demonstrates strong insight, creativity, and depth of thought. She benefits from structure, predictability, and clear expectations. Learning differences affect attention regulation, sensory processing, and task initiation, particularly under time pressure or in overstimulating environments.Learning & ProcessingThe student processes information best when instructions are broken into clear, sequential steps.Additional processing time supports accuracy and confidence.Understanding improves when expectations are explicit rather than implied.Support:Provide written and verbal directions; allow pauses before response.Attention & Executive FunctionThe student’s attention is interest-driven and may fluctuate during long or unstructured tasks.Task initiation may require external cues or a defined starting point.Organization improves with visual planners, checklists, or routine formats.Support:Permit use of planners, written task lists, and flexible pacing.Sensory & Environmental NeedsThe student may be sensitive to visual, auditory, or spatial demands, which can increase cognitive fatigue.A calm, predictable environment supports focus and emotional regulation.Support:Allow seating that feels physically and visually safe; reduce unnecessary sensory input when possible.Assessment & PerformanceThe student demonstrates knowledge more consistently when time pressure is reduced.Performance may not reflect understanding when stress or overstimulation is present.Support:Provide extended time; allow alternative demonstration of learning when appropriate.Emotional & Self-RegulationThe student benefits from predictable routines and reassurance around expectations.Gentle feedback and clear structure support confidence and persistence.Support:Frame corrections neutrally; emphasize effort and process over speed.StrengthsDeep reflective thinkingStrong verbal and written expression when supportedInsight, empathy, and humorAbility to build effective self-support systemsEducational GoalTo provide an environment in which the student can access learning without unnecessary cognitive or emotional barriers, allowing her strengths to emerge consistently.

The episode for when ordinary is okay

Today's podcast was a bit different. No plan, just talk.

There is truly a difference between vision and sight

Reflection, insight, and discovery.

Ever feel like you're always trying, but not really doing? Me tool I explore that here.

What if the moments that almost happened matter just as much as the ones that did?In this gentle, reflective episode of Born Different, Not Broken, Debbie explores the near-misses — the delayed flights, the last-minute changes, the ordinary interruptions that quietly reshaped lives and history.Through personal reflection, faith-rooted insight, and a familiar visit from Zelda, Debbie reminds us that being “off schedule” isn’t always failure. Sometimes it’s protection. Sometimes it’s redirection.If you’ve ever replayed a day and wondered how close everything came to being different, this episode is an invitation to breathe, release what-ifs, and trust that your story is still unfoldinghttps://www.amazon.com/Born-Different-Not-Broken-Resilience/dp/B0FTX2FSHF/ref=sr_1_1?crid=22XD3NVDW8IWS&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.sFnrp_3LjGkqAWX95hUJIH863i_udojQEeSt9GHD8Ng.0Ox1G-aO-7sKYLloxJQG8-bwZhDH9B0QCYaxtoZpxbs&dib_tag=se&keywords=born+different+not+broken&qid=1767052400&sprefix=%2Caps%2C292&sr=8-1patreon.com/turningtowardhealing

I was feeling silly, so I decided this episode needed some humor.

“Some chapters don’t need explaining — they need space.Today’s episode is a full reading of Chapter Two.No music. No rush. Just listening.”

An overview of 2025

It's been a while, I know. This is the story of why

Listen as I read the Preface and Chapter One of the book, Born Different, Not Broken.Join my Patreon Pagepatreon.com/turningtowardhealing Buy the book on Amazon.com

After much delay, on both mine and KDP's parts, my author copies are finally here!

This week, Debbie reflects on a day spent at the Holy and Whole retreat — a time of quiet healing, laughter, and unexpected peace.From a sacred conversation during a massage to moments of worship and gentle rest, this episode reminds us that wholeness isn’t perfection — it’s grace made visible.Scripture reference: Isaiah 61:1–3Tone: Reflective · Gentle · HopefulIf you’ve ever felt marked by your story, let this reminder settle deep: you’re not broken — you’re rebuilt beautifully.🐾 Plus, a short cameo from Zelda, of course.Patreon link: patreon.com/turningtowardhealing

Sometimes the hardest part of faith isn’t taking the first step — it’s standing still while God moves in ways we can’t yet see.In this episode, Debbie reflects on what it means to trust God in the waiting, when life feels paused but purpose is still unfolding.Drawing from verses like Psalm 37:7, Isaiah 40:31, and Romans 8:25, she explores how the “meantime” seasons — those quiet stretches between prayers and answers — can become sacred ground for growth, healing, and deeper peace.And of course, Zelda Speaks returns with a bit of feline humor and quiet wisdom, reminding us that even in the waiting chair, grace can be found (preferably with a nap). 🐾☕ Settle in with your favorite tea, take a deep breath, and join us for this gentle reminder:God’s timing isn’t delayed — it’s deliberate.

Sometimes we quote Jeremiah 29:11 like a quick comfort, but the truth runs deeper.This week on Born Different, Not Broken, Debbie explores what it really means to trust God’s plans — not for immediate relief, but for long-term restoration.Through the story of exile and endurance, she reminds us that God’s goodness doesn’t vanish when life feels uncertain. His plans may take time, but they are always shaped by love.🐾 Zelda’s Reflection: “Waiting isn’t wasted when you nap in faith.”🎧 Listen for encouragement, Scripture context, and a gentle reminder that hope is never absent — even in the waiting.

In this week’s episode of Born Different, Not Broken, Debbie shares her heart in the quiet space before her book release. As October 9 approaches, she reflects on what it means to trust God with the story once it’s out of her hands — and how anticipation itself can become an act of faith.

When life feels low and the waiting stretches long, hope can feel far away. In this episode, Debbie shares encouragement from her own week -- trusting God's presence in the waiting, and Finding comfort in the small gifts He provides. Support the podcast patreon.com/turningtowardhealing

I didn't want to leave you hanging for a day. So this is a short blurb about what I have going on tomorrow. Tomorrow I'll record a full episode.

Here you get a first listen to chapter 2 of the memoir Born Different, Not Broken. Listen as I tell of siblings, and surgeries, casts, and cats.

Last week brought panic, confrontation, and hard decisions. Debbie shares how she apologized where needed, stood firm where she had already made amends, and took action to make sure her voice was heard — finding hope even in a week that felt like too much. If you’ve had a heavy week, you’re not alone — and there is always a way forward.

in this episode of Born Different, Not Broken, Debbie shares how the small tedious work of editing her memoir became a reminder of God's patience in fefining our lives. From fixing indents and spacing to leaning on her co-pilot Zelda for encouragement, she reflects on how progress often comes in quiet, consistent steps. Through Philippians 1:6 and Psalm 34:18, Debbie reminds us that God never abandons His work in ys -- and that He draws close in our brokenness, carrying us toward healing and hope.

Show NotesThis episode is a little late — and that’s okay. I share honestly about a rough Sunday, a blah Monday, and how today’s unexpected nap reminded me that sometimes rest is the most honest prayer we can offer.I’ll also give you a peek into my memoir reorganization, including what’s now Chapter 3: Casts, Cats, and the Classroom. Spot the cat makes an appearance, reminding me — and maybe you — that even in interruptions, comfort can be found.If you’ve ever felt a day late, a dollar short, or just plain tired, this one’s for you.Takeaway: Rest isn’t weakness. It’s God’s way of restoring your soul — right on time.

An injection that was supposed to be better, turned out worse. Just another story of resilience.

A couple stories from chapter 2 of Born Different, Not Broken

interview with Sarah Pearson CEO and Founder of The Sixth Day Connection, Inc. and Owner of Copper Brand Pulse.Websitewww.thesixthdayconnection.orgFacebookhttps://www.facebook.com/share/1Ec3zF1Ktp/Copper Brand Pulsehttps://www.facebook.com/share/14GofZebfys/

Sometimes life happens and the interview doesn't. But, that's no reason for no podcast!

An in depth preview of chapter 1 of Born Different, Not Broken.

A further preview

Simple introduction