How does one navigate the intricate world of deaf advocacy and cochlear implants? Join us as Dr. Jessica Hissam, a distinguished deaf advocate and executive director of the Center of Advancement of Next Gen Deaf, shares her profound life story. Born deaf and diagnosed late due to the absence of newborn hearing screenings in 1993, Dr. Hissam's journey underscores the paramount importance of early pediatric hearing screenings. From different types of hearing loss to the critical urgency of treatment, Dr. Hissam's insights illuminate the complex landscape of deafness and the pressing need for education and advocacy.

Discover the essential elements of language acquisition and bilingual education for deaf children, as Dr. Hissam unpacks the systemic barriers that families often face. Through the inspiring story of a mother fighting for her deaf daughter's right to bilingual education, we learn about the resilience and determination required to challenge and change societal expectations. Additionally, Dr. Hissam guides us through the intricate decision-making process surrounding cochlear implants, explaining the importance of understanding audiograms, the "speech banana," and the technological advancements that can drastically improve quality of life for those with hearing impairments.

We also delve into the multi-faceted role of audiologists and the critical timelines for early hearing identification. Dr. Hissam highlights the gaps in insurance coverage and the necessity of specialized training for audiologists to ensure effective care. By addressing the intersection of physical health and compassionate care, this episode sheds light on the broader challenges within the deaf community, from identity and advocacy to the pressing need for inclusive policies and equitable access to hearing care. Tune in for a rich, educational, and deeply personal conversation that champions the cause of the deaf and hard-of-hearing community.

Follow Jessica here:
https://www.instagram.com/jess.hsquared/

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Have you ever wondered how someone transitions from the world of big pharma to becoming a local celebrity and lifestyle content creator? This episode features the incredible journey of Kenny from Huntsville, Alabama, who shares her inspiring story of pivoting during the pandemic to launch Huntsville Content Creators. Her passion for supporting local businesses through food reviews, coupled with her role as a wife, mom, and business owner, makes for an engaging and heartfelt conversation. Plus, Kenny opens up about the importance of mental health and vulnerability in the creative process.

Navigating the world of freelancing and business ownership comes with its own set of challenges, and our discussion provides practical advice on key issues like setting prices and managing client relationships. She also shares her personal journey of being a multimedia design graduate struggling to find a job, to becoming a freelance content creator. From understanding the complexities of taxes to establishing an LLC, this episode offers valuable insights for anyone looking to make a similar career transition while staying true to their creative vision.

Content creation isn't just about posting pretty pictures—it's an emotional journey filled with self-doubt, imposter syndrome, and balancing a full-time job. Kenny and I delve into the importance of community and support, discussing how Huntsville Content Creators became a vital resource for local creatives. We also touch on the power of structure, consistency, and the influence of inspirational figures like Deanna, Jessica, Tasha, and Michelle. Whether you're a seasoned creator or just starting out, this episode is packed with lessons on embracing authenticity, maintaining a positive social media environment, and committing to your creative goals.

Find Kenny here:
https://www.instagram.com/_thatskenny/

Find Huntsville Content Creators here:
https://www.instagram.com/hsvcontentcreators/

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#142: Ever wondered what it was like to navigate the wild, unregulated internet of the 90s? Join Ivy and me, as we share laugh-out-loud stories from our risky adventures in early chat rooms and AIM, where Ivy, under the alias "Skater Girl 98," lied about her age to seem cooler. From dodging the hazards of Limewire to the exhilaration of chatting with strangers, we marvel at how we emerged unscathed from those digital escapades. Tune in for a light-hearted, nostalgic look back at our youthful misadventures and the lessons we learned.

But that’s not all—our conversation continues as we reminisce about the evolution of communication technology from landline phone calls to the era of texting on T9 keyboards. Reflecting on how our generation straddled both the pre- and post-digital divides, we share cringe-worthy tales from our rebellious teenage years, including an ill-fated attempt to sneak off to a heavy metal concert. This episode is filled with humor, nostalgia, and a reflection on how communication and teenage defiance have evolved. Don’t miss out on these entertaining anecdotes as we take a trip down memory lane!

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#141: What if the end-of-life care you choose could actually improve your quality of life significantly? Today, we’re joined by the seasoned nurse practitioner, Ivy who helps untangle the often-confusing terms of hospice and palliative care. We break down how hospice is a compassionate Medicare benefit designed for patients with a prognosis of six months or less, while palliative care serves as a supportive bridge for those with chronic illnesses still undergoing treatments. We tackle common myths, such as the belief that hospice means imminent death, and emphasize that it’s truly about comfort and dignity.

We'll guide you through the intricate rules and goals surrounding hospice care, including how ER visits can affect a patient's status. Ivy shares an intimate story about her grandfather's experience with hospice, illustrating how this care can profoundly enhance life quality. We also clarify that hospice does not mean the cessation of all treatments – necessary medications continue to be provided to ensure comfort. Moving on, we delve into the emotional and complex decisions about DNR and DNI orders, where Miss Ivy and I share our differing perspectives on these critical directives.

Finally, we can't stress enough the importance of having a healthcare proxy and being educated about your options for end-of-life care. Through heartfelt discussions, we aim to prepare you for making informed and compassionate decisions when it matters most. Don't miss our next episode, where we’ll switch gears and reminisce about the quirks and joys of surviving the 90s.

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#140: What happens when cosmetic fillers go wrong and surgery becomes your only option? Join me as I unravel my complex and emotional journey through lower blepharoplasty. Starting back in 2016, I had my first under-eye filler treatment to smooth out minor lines, only to face unexpected complications like swelling and malar edema. Despite numerous attempts with alternative treatments over five years, I was left with no choice but to head into surgery in May 2022.

Curious about innovative treatments that could redefine your aesthetic journey? Discover how my battle with filler migration post-surgery saw a turning point with an oculoplastic surgeon in Nashville. Through ultrasound-guided dissolution of the lingering filler, my swelling issues finally found resolution. This candid chapter underscores the importance of knowing when to embrace your journey and accept your natural beauty. Tune in for an episode packed with insights, personal reflections, and essential advice for anyone considering cosmetic enhancements.

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#139: Have you ever faced the chaos of last-minute flight cancellations? Discover the resilient spirit of Ivy as she recounts her unforgettable summer vacation in San Salvador, from the drama of hurricanes and tricky travel logistics to the memorable joys she shared with her family.

In the middle of mayhem, we explore the emotional toll of rebooking flights amidst power outages and cancellations, not to mention the challenge of managing a mother's solo travel experience. We dive into the highs and lows of an extended stay at home and celebrate the small victories that come when travel plans go astray. Through heartfelt anecdotes, witness the emotional journey of a husband reconnecting with his roots in his native country after nearly three decades, highlighting the powerful memories and transformations he encountered.

Switching gears, we embark on a whimsical adventure through dragon lore, discussing the mythical creatures' bond with Targaryens and debating their existence based on House of Dragon episodes. We then revisit the excitement of a massive rainbow slide in El Salvador and its unique experience. Finally, we wrap up with touching reflections on setting up a memorial bench for loved ones, blending humor and heartfelt moments into a conversation that honors the past while looking forward to the future. Join us for an episode filled with travel drama, mythical tales, and touching memories.

You can now send us a text to ask a question or review the show. We would love to hear from you!

Follow me on social: https://www.instagram.com/babbles_nonsense/

You can now send us a text to ask a question or review the show. We would love to hear from you!

Follow me on social: https://www.instagram.com/babbles_nonsense/

Can psychic intuition really guide major life decisions? Join us for a fascinating "Take Me Back Tuesday" as we revisit some of the most unforgettable moments with psychic medium Chris Medina. You'll hear about Chris’s eye-opening predictions on popular podcasts with Stassi Schroeder, Lala Kent, and Katie Maloney from "Vanderpump Rules," along with personal stories of his astounding accuracy in foreseeing pivotal events. We'll shed light on the often-misunderstood world of psychics and mediums, debunking myths and giving you a closer look at Chris's unique methods and energy practices. Stick around until the end for a special mini-reading that you won't want to miss.

Hear firsthand how my psychic journey began, from childhood encounters with spirits to connecting with celebrity guides, catapulting me into the spotlight. We'll dive into the early days of my psychic abilities, revealing how reading emotional energies and vivid impressions from spirits shaped my path. Discover the intriguing ways spirits communicate with me through sensations and visual triggers like photographs, and how these experiences have evolved over time, offering a deeper understanding of my psychic and medium abilities.

Transformative personal growth is at the heart of this captivating episode. Uncover the pivotal events that steered me from a manipulative past to embracing my psychic talents for positive change. From an unexpected breakthrough at Comic-Con to life-altering connections with personalities like Annabelle DeSisto and Stassi Schroeder, my journey is filled with both anxiety and excitement. We'll also explore how Chris Medina's insights provided clarity and guidance, emphasizing the importance of intuition, manifestation, and understanding individual energy. This episode is packed with heartfelt discussions, insightful predictions, and the remarkable power of embracing one’s intuitive abilities.

Find Chris here:
https://www.instagram.com/psychicchrism/
http://www.chrismedina.guide/
https://www.instagram.com/inyourheadpodcast
https://linktr.ee/chrismedina

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