Parenting with Authenticity

Prepare to be inspired to think about parenting from a different perspective---and to think about your own childhood and how you would “re-parent” yourself if you could. We talk with Devin Jae Wilber---photographer, entrepreneur, and Mom to two beautiful children, one with autism--about how showing up authentically as a parent and releasing perfection has given her greater joy and the opportunity to contribute to others. And, we laugh a lot too! In this episode, we talk about:
Katy Perry and lions
Introducing Devin Jae Wilber -- “Mom extraordinaire” + photographer + entrepreneur
The “Mom” expectations
“If I can’t keep a plant alive” 
Make up your own rules about parenting
The belief that mothers are supposed to be the CEOs of the house
Blue hair for picture day
Trusting the process of exploration for children
“If you’re going to fall, learn how to fall the right way”
Shame and growth
Dealing with different parenting philosophies
The fallacy of “Pinterest Mom”
Having a special needs daughter
“Give everyone a break”
Showing up imperfectly
The origins of Devin’s passion for advocacy
Her daughter’s autism diagnosis
Doing something meaningful with your anger
The “First Words Project” at FSU
Formulating a plan matters---so does gut instinct
Managing anger -- part of the grief process
Being a realist and dealing with people that make uninformed remarks
Protecting parents’ mental health 
“There’s no playbook”
Coping with grief
Devin’s new plan - not taking “no” as no
We have to be our own advocates

Find us at justchai.podbean.com
Friendly disclaimer: This podcast and its hosts are not endorsing any of brand names you may hear. Any product names mentioned are simply to add fun, lively color for the conversation. Opinions reflected are our own.