The Breaking Barriers Podcast

🎙️Breathing Easier: Understanding Tracheostomy and Airway Malacia with Dr. Iverson

In this episode of Breaking Barriers, we welcome back Dr. Iverson, pediatric ENT specialist at the University of Kentucky Children’s Hospital, for an in-depth conversation on tracheostomy and airway malacia. Dr. Iverson explains what these conditions mean, how they’re diagnosed, and what families can expect when navigating trach care. Whether your child has a tracheostomy or is being evaluated for airway issues like tracheomalacia or bronchomalacia, this episode offers expert insight and reassurance for parents on this journey.
 
 
 
 

Feeding with Purpose: Navigating Tubes, Blends & Growth with Betsy Hjelmgren

In this empowering episode, we sit down with pediatric nutritionist Betsy Hjelmgren to talk all things feeding, nutrition, and growth in children with Edwards Syndrome and complex medical needs. From NG and G-tube support to weaning strategies and blending real food for tube feeds, Betsy brings compassionate, evidence-based guidance for families navigating these unique journeys. Whether you’re new to tube feeding or exploring the next step, this conversation is full of support, hope, and practical tips for nourishing your child—body and soul.
 
 
 
 

Breaking Barriers: Dad Edition

Breaking Barriers: Dad Edition-
Hosted by Robert Polacek
In this special Father’s Day episode, host Robert Polacek—proud dad of Mia—leads an honest and powerful conversation with two fellow fathers of children with Edwards Syndrome (Trisomy 18). Together, these three dads share their unique journeys, the highs and lows of navigating rare parenthood, and the strength it takes to advocate for their incredible kids.
 
From diagnosis to daily life, this episode offers a rare and moving glimpse into fatherhood through the eyes of men walking a path few truly understand. It’s a heartfelt reminder that dads are breaking barriers too—every single day.
 
 
 
 

Through A Mothers Eyes- Surviving Childhood Cancer

In this powerful and heartfelt episode, we sit down with Brandi, a courageous mother sharing her journey through one of the most challenging battles a parent can face—her daughter Faith’s diagnosis with Wilms Tumor. Born with Edwards Syndrome, Faith’s early life came with immense challenges, but nothing prepared their family for the fight against childhood cancer. Brandi opens up about the moments of fear, faith, and fierce determination that carried them through surgeries, treatments, and long hospital stays. Today, Faith is not only surviving—she’s thriving.
 
This episode is a tribute to resilience, hope, and the strength of a mother’s love. Tune in for an inspiring story of survival that sheds light on the unique intersection of rare genetic conditions and pediatric cancer, reminding us that miracles happen—one day, one breath, one heartbeat at a time.
 
 
 
 

Inside the Mind with Dr. Raskin

In this thoughtful and informative episode, we sit down with Dr. Raskin, a Pediatric Neurosurgeon, to talk about some of the conditions that affect children and families the most. Dr. Raskin helps us understand epilepsy and when surgery can be a life-changing option, movement disorders-especially in the context of rare conditions like Edwards Syndrome-and hydrocephalus, a condition that can sound scary but is often treatable. Whether you're a parent navigating a diagnosis or just want to better understand the brain, this episode offers clarity, compassion, and hope from someone who's spent his career helping families through some of their most difficult moments.

Mother's Day Episode-Voices of Hope and Honor!

In this special Mother's Day episode, we honor the incredible strength, love and resilience of mothers raising- or who have raised-children with Edwards Syndrome (Trisomy 18). Join us as we sit down with a group of brave and compassionate moms who share their deeply personal journeys: the challenges, the beauty in the small moments, the advocacy, and the unbreakable bonds formed through love and loss. This heartfelt conversation sheds light on a rare condition while celebrating the powerful role of motherhood in all its forms. Whether you're familiar with Edwards Syndrome or just want to be inspired by real stories of courage and connection, this episode will leave a lasting impression. 

Breathing Through the Night: Understanding Sleep Apnea with Dr. Iverson

In this episode of The Breaking Barriers Podcast, we're joined by ENT specialist Dr. Iverson to dive into a condition that affects millions but is often misunderstood- sleep apena. From the warning signs to the latest treatment options, Dr. Iverson breaks down the science in a way that's both informative and empowering. 
 
Tune in as we break down the barriers to better sleep, one breath at a time.  

Hearing Loss Episode 2 with Dr. Iverson about Trisomy 18 and Cochlear Implants with Crystal Simpson sharing Gunnars Journey

Trisomy 18 and Cochlear Implants with Crystal Simpson sharing Gunnars Journey

Epilepsy Awareness with Jeanna Polacek

Epilepsy impacts roughly 1/3rd of people with Edwards Syndrome. Some have controlled seizures and others do not.
 
We are excited to share with you the epilepsy journey of one of The ESA founding kiddos Mia through our Breaking Barriers Podcast

Hearing Loss Series-Episode (Mom Talk)

Our Second episode of our Hearing Loss series. In this episode us three moms within the ESA Board will be discussing our very own hearing loss journey with our children.