Chromosomes & Chaos

In this episode of Chromosomes & Chaos, we dive into a question every parent faces sooner or later: What do you say when your child notices — and asks about — disabilities and differences? Kids are curious, observant, and honest… sometimes uncomfortably so. And too often, parents freeze, shush, or say “don’t stare” without knowing what to say next. We talk about why these questions are normal,...

On this episode, we talk about the things we had to unlearn after having a child with an extra chromosome. We had to unlearn timelines and expectations.  Unlearn comparison, control, and the idea that “normal” is the goal. Unlearn the fear-based narratives and limits that were placed on our child before they ever had the chance to show us who they are. This episode is about releasing what we thoug...

In this episode of Chromosomes & Chaos , we’re diving headfirst into the chaos of the New Year. Are New Year’s resolutions actually helpful… or are we officially over them? 👀 We talk about the pressure to “start fresh,” what really works when it comes to goals, and how to approach the New Year without burning out by January. Spoiler alert: it’s not about perfection. Plus, we wrap it up with o...

The holidays are here—and so is the chaos 🎄😅 In this episode of Chromosomes & Chaos , we’re leaning into the fun, the mess, and the magic of the season. From hilarious hypotheticals to real-life holiday struggles, we laugh our way through traditions, parenting moments, and the beautifully imperfect reality of family life. It’s lighthearted, relatable, and exactly the reminder we all need tha...

This week on Chromosomes & Chaos, we’re diving into a topic that hits hard this time of year—sobriety. The holidays are filled with joy… but also pressure.  Pressure to drink.  Pressure to “join in.”  Pressure to numb instead of feel. We’re talking about what it actually looks like to stay sober (or simply cut back) in a season where alcohol is everywhere—family gatherings, work parties, stres...

On this episode, we sit down with Dr. Lisa — a powerhouse pediatrician and a fellow mom to a daughter with Down syndrome. ❤️ We dive into conversations every new family deserves to hear, including: ✨ How to find the right pediatrician for your child ✨ Whether doctors are getting better at delivering a Down syndrome diagnosis ✨ What resources, support, and community are available for families re...

Friendships don’t all start the same… and they definitely don’t all last the same. Some fade. Some fight to stay. And some arrive because of a diagnosis you never asked for. In this episode, we kick things off in Chaos Corner, answering your listener Q&As — including a powerful conversation around comparison being the thief of joy. We’re talking social media spirals, mom guilt, and learning ho...

This week on Chromosomes & Chaos , we got to sit down with the incredible Jillian Benfield — author of Overwhelmed & Grateful and The Gift of the Unexpected . 💛 Jillian was one of the very first people we dreamed of interviewing because of the impact she’s had on our families. She writes so beautifully and speaks straight to the heart. ❤️ Her message about finding purpose and beauty in li...

This week gets a little wild in Chaos Corner as Amber shares a CRAZY story you don’t want to miss 🤯. We also dive into a few listener Q&As about our favorite things about Addi and Pierce , and wrap up with a real conversation on how to overcome heavy seasons of life when it feels like you’re trying to do it all. 💛 Tune in, laugh with us, and maybe tear up a little too.  Don’t forget to like,...

This week on Chromosomes & Chaos , we’re talking IEPs — what they really mean, how to advocate for your child, and a few lessons we’ve learned the hard way. Whether you’re brand new to the IEP world or have a few under your belt, this episode is full of real talk and a of course, a few laughs along the way. And we’re kicking off our newest segment — Chaos Corner! 🙃 Because every week comes wi...

In this episode of Chromosomes & Chaos , host Patty opens up about one of the most difficult chapters of her life — losing her son Hudson shortly after the birth of her daughter Addi . 💔 Patty shares her story with raw honesty and courage, reflecting on the pain, the love that never fades, and the ways she found strength to move forward. This conversation is for every parent who has experienc...

In this episode of Chromosomes & Chaos , we’re tackling some of the biggest myths and misconceptions about raising a child with Down syndrome — the ones we heard before (and even after) our own journeys began. From outdated beliefs about abilities and independence, to misconceptions about happiness and family life — we’re setting the record straight. Because raising a child with Down syndrome...

In this episode of Chromosomes & Chaos , we’re getting real about one of the biggest moments in our journeys — the moment we received our Down syndrome diagnosis. Was it at birth? Prenatal? A surprise in the delivery room? No matter how you found out, that moment changes everything. We’re opening up about our own experiences — the emotions, the fear, the love — and how those first moments shap...

From GiGi’s to Gold’s Gym to the wild world of social media—our paths kept crossing until we finally realized we were meant to team up. In this episode, we’re sharing the story of how two busy Iowa moms raising kids with Down syndrome went from acquaintances to friends to co-hosts of Chromosomes & Chaos. It’s real, it’s a little chaotic, and it’s the perfect kickoff to our journey together. Ho...

Meet your hosts: Patty & Amber!! On this trailer episode we give you some insight on who we are, how we both have kids with Down syndrome (who also happen to be our oldest) and how we both juggle multiple kids, busy schedules, and all the chaos in between. Together, we’re sharing the laughter, the tears, the chaos, and the beauty of this journey—because no parent should feel alone. We are so e...