Our Forever Smiles with Laura Arroyo

In this return episode of Our Forever Smiles, Laura sits down again with Allie Ekblad, children's book author, cleft advocate, and creator of Ava the Brava. Allie shares how her advocacy has evolved beyond the book, what it's been like raising a child with a bilateral cleft lip and palate, and how confidence, identity, and resilience are shaped over time. Together, they talk honestly about the realities of cleft surgeries, speech therapy, bone grafts, orthodontics, and revisions, while also diving into the emotional side of parenting. From navigating beauty standards and school experiences to empowering children to embrace their differences, this conversation offers reassurance, perspective, and hope. Whether you're newly diagnosed, deep into the cleft journey, or simply looking for encouragement, this episode is a reminder that your child is more than a diagnosis and that confidence can be built one conversation at a time. Links: Epsiode: Embracing Differences: Ava the Brave Ava the Brava The Sparkle You Carry Jack's New Smile Archie the Cleftie Buy Us a Coffee FB Support Group

In this heartfelt episode of Our Forever Smiles, host Laura Arroyo sits down with Brandy, a mom of two whose youngest daughter was born with a surprise cleft palate diagnosed at birth. After a smooth pregnancy and normal ultrasounds, Brandy and her husband were shocked to learn about their daughter's cleft in the delivery room. What followed was a whirlwind of feeding challenges, jaundice, long hospital stays, specialty bottles, weekly therapy appointments, and eventually cleft palate repair surgery. Brandy shares openly about navigating postpartum depression, advocating for her daughter's feeding needs, discovering the right cleft bottle after weeks of struggle, and learning her daughter also had a laryngeal cleft that required repair. She also speaks candidly about balancing the needs of a toddler while caring for a baby with medical complexities. This episode is for any cleft mom who feels overwhelmed, exhausted, or uncertain. It is a reminder that advocacy matters, mental health support is essential, and even in the hardest seasons, there can still be joy. Whether you are newly diagnosed, preparing for cleft surgery, struggling with feeding, or walking the long road of appointments, this conversation will help you feel seen and supported. Subscribe and follow Our Forever Smiles to continue walking this journey together. Links: Buy Us a Coffee FB Support Group

In this episode of the Our Forever Smiles podcast, host Laura Arroyo sits down with Sarah Norwood to share her personal journey with her son Hollis's palate repair. From hospital recovery, feeding challenges, and pain management, to sleep regressions and speech milestones, Sarah offers candid insights and practical tips for parents navigating the cleft journey. We also answer questions from cleft mom groups to provide reassurance, guidance, and support. Links: Buy Us a Coffee FB Support Group

In this deeply personal and eye-opening episode of Our Forever Smiles, Laura welcomes returning guest Corinne for her third appearance on the podcast. Born with a cleft lip and palate, Corinne shares her lifelong journey through more than 30 surgeries, including repeated palate repair failures, innovative fat grafting procedures, and the emotional toll of navigating cleft care into adulthood. Together, Laura and Corinne discuss acid reflux as a lesser-known contributor to palatal repair failure, the trauma many adults carry from childhood surgeries, parenting while undergoing medical procedures, and why reframing "failure" as partial success can be life-changing. Corinne also provides updates on the Ensuring Lasting Smiles Act (ELSA), her advocacy work with Smile Train, and what cleft families and adults can do to navigate insurance, language, and long-term care. This episode is a must-listen for cleft parents, adults with cleft lip and palate, advocates, and anyone seeking hope, validation, and honest conversation about what the cleft journey can look like beyond childhood. Links: Buy Us a Coffee FB Support Group

In this episode of Our Forever Smiles, Laura speaks with Erica, Executive Director of the Children's Craniofacial Association, about growing up with an undiagnosed craniofacial difference and finding her voice through advocacy. Erica shares her lived experience navigating surgeries, self-image, and the long road to confidence. Together, they discuss the importance of language, accessibility, parent advocacy, and building inclusive community spaces. This conversation offers perspective, reassurance, and hope for families navigating facial difference at any stage. Links: Buy Us a Coffee FB Support Group CCA

In this episode of Our Forever Smiles, Laura speaks with Christina, a first-time mom from Serbia whose son was prenatally diagnosed with a cleft lip and palate at 26 weeks. Christina shares her experience navigating diagnosis, specialist care, and preparation for surgery within a different healthcare system. She opens up about feeding challenges, NAM therapy, finding community support, and learning to trust herself as a parent. This episode offers reassurance and perspective for families around the world facing a cleft diagnosis. Links: Buy Us a Coffee FB Support Group

In this episode of Our Forever Smiles, Laura welcomes back cleft advocate Sam to share his powerful lived experience growing up with bilateral cleft lip and palate. Born in Bulgaria and adopted to the U.S., Sam opens up about early surgeries, speech challenges, bullying, and navigating identity as both an adoptee and someone with a facial difference. Together, they discuss global stigma, harmful language, media representation, and why authentic inclusion matters. This conversation offers perspective, reassurance, and practical insight for parents raising children with cleft and for adults advocating for change. *Tom Burke is the actor who was born with a cleft from the movie Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga Links: Episode 67: Breaking the Ice: Sam Rosen on Growing Up with a Cleft Lip and Palate and Owning His Story Buy Us a Coffee FB Support Group Smile Train Statement Against Werewulf Movie CCAC Applications

In this episode of Our Forever Smiles, Laura sits down with Natalie and Alec, parents to Zade, who was born with a cleft lip and palate. They share their experience navigating a prenatal diagnosis, an unexpected NICU stay, feeding challenges, and learning how to advocate within a complex medical system. This honest conversation highlights the importance of asking questions, finding community support, and trusting your instincts as a parent. A must-listen for families preparing for birth or feeling overwhelmed in the early weeks of the cleft journey. Links: Buy Us a Coffee FB Support Group

In this episode of Our Forever Smiles, Laura speaks with Meirah, a mother, author, and advocate whose son was born with a complete bilateral cleft lip and palate. Meirah shares her experience navigating a surprise diagnosis at birth, feeding challenges, and seeking cleft care across multiple countries. She reflects on choosing early surgical repair, raising a confident child, and how lived experience led her to write her book A Broken Smile. This conversation offers reassurance and perspective for parents at any stage of the cleft journey. Links: His Broken Smile Buy Us a Coffee FB Support Group

In this episode of Our Forever Smiles, Laura sits down with Stephanie, a cleft mom and Executive Director of the Face-to-Face Foundation. Stephanie shares her family's prenatal cleft diagnosis journey, the realities of cleft care, and how lived experience led her into advocacy work. Together, they discuss the importance of community connection, medical grants, and supporting families beyond surgery. This conversation offers reassurance, perspective, and hope for parents navigating a cleft diagnosis at any stage. Links: Face-to-Face Foundation Gala Buy Us a Coffee FB Support Group

In this episode of Our Forever Smiles, Laura sits down with Natalie, a mom of two whose son was prenatally diagnosed with a cleft lip. Natalie shares the emotional journey from receiving the diagnosis at 16 weeks to preparing for surgery and finding peace in the unknown. She opens up about anxiety, faith, choosing the right cleft team, and what helped her feel grounded during pregnancy. This conversation offers reassurance and hope for families navigating a prenatal cleft diagnosis. Links: Buy Us a Coffee FB Support Group

Brooklyn joins Our Forever Smiles to share her experience as a cleft mom navigating diagnosis, surgery, and motherhood with resilience and honesty. She opens up about the emotional ups and downs of the cleft journey and the importance of community support. This episode centers on growth, advocacy, and learning to trust yourself as a parent. A comforting and relatable conversation for moms at any stage of the cleft journey. Links: Buy Us a Coffee FB Support Group

In this inspiring episode, Laura speaks with Charlotte, a 17-year-old cleft-affected individual and the creator of Stitches by Charlotte. Born with a cleft lip and palate, Charlotte shares her lived experience and how she began creating surgery companion dolls to help children feel seen and supported. She also discusses advocacy, confidence, and using her voice to create change in the cleft community. This conversation is a reminder of the power of representation and lived experience. Links: Stitches by Charlotte Buy Us a Coffee FB Support Group

Jessica shares her story of becoming a first-time mom and learning about her child's cleft palate after birth, followed by an unexpected NICU stay. She reflects on the shock, fear, and isolation that came with leaving the hospital without her baby. This episode highlights the emotional realities of NICU life, navigating a cleft palate diagnosis, and finding strength in the hardest moments. A powerful listen for parents facing medical trauma and uncertainty. Links: Buy Us a Coffee FB Support Group

In this special solo episode, Laura Arroyo sits down to reflect on the past year of the OFS Podcast and share an honest, behind-the-scenes look at where we are and where we're headed. Laura highlights the conversations that made an impact, the lessons learned, and the themes emerging from our community. She also offers a sneak peek at upcoming topics, new initiatives, and how we're continuing to elevate support for women, moms, and families. Whether you're a longtime listener or just tuning in, this episode is a heartfelt, transparent update on the journey so far—and an exciting look at what's next. Links: Buy me a Coffee

In this returning episode, Laura Arroyo sits down with Brittnie Hampson to continue the conversation about life after a surprise cleft palate diagnosis. Brittnie shares an honest look at raising her two-year-old daughter, Ava, and how her journey has evolved since her last appearance on the podcast. She opens up about the emotional shift from confidently breastfeeding her first two children to learning entirely new ways to feed a cleft-affected baby, and the steep learning curve that came with it. Brittnie also shares how she's turned her experience into advocacy by educating nurses through "lunch and learn" sessions, helping medical teams better support cleft families from day one. She reflects on what she expected after Ava's surgery versus the realities of life after surgery, offering encouragement, validation, and practical insight for families navigating similar paths. This episode is filled with honesty, growth, and hope for anyone walking the cleft journey. Links: Buy me a Coffee

Laura Arroyo talks with Dr. Richard Kirschner and Catherine Bingham about the Magical Moments Foundation, a wish-granting organization for children with facial differences. Brought to you by the ACPA — the American Cleft Palate Craniofacial Association, supporting interdisciplinary cleft and craniofacial teams. Links and Resources: Magical Moments Nomination Form Buy Me a Coffee

Laura Arroyo sits down with Dr. Renie Daniel, a fellowship-trained, dual-degree, board-certified cleft and craniofacial surgeon in Minneapolis and director of the University of Minnesota Cleft and Craniofacial Team. Dr. Daniel shares what inspired her to pursue cleft care, her favorite surgeries, and how her multidisciplinary team works together to educate, advocate, and empower children and adults with facial differences — all to ensure the best outcomes for families across Minnesota. Links and Resources: University of MN Cleft and Craniofacial Clinic Buy Me a Coffee

At the ACPA Annual Meeting, we sat down with Nancy Rowan and Rachel Chiavatti to discuss groundbreaking advancements in cleft care for Pierre Robin Sequence (PRS). Both mothers to sons born with cleft palate and PRS in the fall of 2022, they share their journeys as parents and advocates. Together, they co-founded HOAP for PRS (Healing with the Orthodontic Airway Plate for Pierre Robin Sequence), a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving outcomes for PRS patients. They also highlight the pioneering work of Dr. HyeRan Choo at Stanford, who is leading the way in creating less invasive treatment options. Learn more about their mission at www.hoapforprs.com. Links and Resources: Buy us a Coffee

Dr. Jessica Canallatos, prosthodontist at Oishei Children's Hospital and member of the Craniofacial Team of WNY, brings a unique perspective to cleft care as someone born with a cleft herself. Specializing in Nasoalveolar Molding (NAM), neonatal ear molding, and digital prosthetics, Dr. Canallatos is passionate about transforming lives and supporting families through complex care. Recorded live at the ACPA Annual Meeting, this conversation highlights her reflections on her late mother, her inspiring path in dentistry, and what it means to give back to a community she personally understands. Links and Resources: Buy Me a Coffee Campaign Jessica Canallatos on IG

Recorded at the ACPA Annual Meeting, a powerful hub for knowledge sharing and connection, this episode of the Our Forever Smiles podcast features Stephanie Hassen, Executive Director of the Face to Face Foundation in Charlotte, North Carolina. Stephanie shares how her nonprofit raises funds and awards grants to cleft and craniofacial families across the Carolinas, along with the incredible community events that bring families together. As a mom of three, with her middle daughter born cleft-affected, Stephanie brings both personal passion and professional dedication to her mission of empowering families. Links and Resources: Facebook Group Buy Me a Coffee Campaign Face to Face Organization

Vickie Stolle, speaker, writer, and certified WISDOM Coach™, is a cleft-affected individual with first-hand experience and knowledge of the cleft journey. Born with a bilateral cleft lip and palate, she blends her lived experience with her professional mission of empowering children and families. As the founder of Resilient Kid Academy, she helps families foster resilience and emotional strength in their children, an often-overlooked part of cleft care. In this episode, Vickie shares her story, her insights on emotional well-being, and practical strategies for supporting kids beyond the medical side of cleft treatment. Support Links: Buy Me a Coffee Resilient Kid Academy Special Resource: Coaching for Resilience Did you catch our conversation with Vickie Stolle of Resilient Kid Academy? Vickie specializes in working with children and parents in the cleft community, focusing on building resilience and turning differences into strengths. Whether your child needs one-on-one Child Coaching to cultivate strong self-worth and confidently engage with others or you need guidance on effective Parent Coaching strategies for emotional support, Vickie can help you find the tools you need. Resilient Kid Academy is a wonderful resource for making sure your child feels capable and proud every day as they navigate their unique journey. Special Perk for Our Forever Smiles Listeners Enjoy a 10% Discount! Simply mention you're an Our Forever Smiles listener when you schedule your complimentary discovery call, and you'll receive 10% off your first coaching package with Resilient Kid Academy. Book your discovery call today: https://calendly.com/resilientkidacademy/15-minutediscoverycall

Returning for her third appearance, Summer Kormushoff opens up about her son's palate repair journey. She shares valuable tips for parents preparing for surgery, including practical advice and emotional insight. We also reflect on her previous episodes where she discussed receiving her son's cleft diagnosis and navigating lip repair. This full-circle conversation offers encouragement and guidance for parents at every stage of the cleft journey. Links and Resources: Buy us a Coffee

In this inspiring episode, Laura Arroyo sits down with Stacy Swope — special education teacher, mom of two, and first-time author — to share the story of her son Benjamin's cleft journey. From infancy through the school years, Benjamin has undergone a series of life-changing treatments and surgeries, including NAM, ear tubes, cleft lip and palate repairs, a two-part buccal flap procedure to improve speech and lengthen his palate, and two bone grafts using both hip and cadaver bone. Stacy opens up about what it's like to navigate the evolving medical needs of school-aged children affected by cleft lip and palate, the challenges and victories along the way, and the importance of creating supportive communities for families. She also gives us a glimpse into her upcoming children's book designed to encourage and empower cleft-affected kids and their families. Whether you're a parent, caregiver, or advocate, this conversation is filled with hope, resilience, and practical insight for every stage of the cleft journey. Links and Resources: A Sparkle You Carry

Dr. Mackensie McBeain, Board Certified Pediatric Dentist for the University of Minnesota Cleft and Craniofacial Team, joins us to share her expertise in cleft care. In addition to her private practice at Children's Dental Care, she provides Nasoalveolar Molding (NAM) for babies born with cleft differences. Balancing her professional dedication with life at home as a mother of three, Dr. McBeain offers both clinical insight and personal perspective. This episode highlights her role in supporting families from diagnosis through early treatment.

Laura Arroyo speaks with Dr. Vitorela about groundbreaking craniofacial orthodontics program and its impact on cleft treatment. Brought to you by the ACPA — the American Cleft Palate Craniofacial Association, improving outcomes for people with cleft and craniofacial conditions.

Laura Arroyo chats with Dr. Manlove about her work at UNC, her passion for education, and the future of cleft surgery. Brought to you by the ACPA — the American Cleft Palate Craniofacial Association, advancing education, research, and care worldwide. Links and Resources: Patreon Subscription Tiers for Exclusive Content Our Forever Smiles Merch Store NC Cleft Mom FB Group Our Forever Smiles FB Group ______________________________________________________________________________ Today's sponsor is sienna dawn media Integrated Marketing Agency sienna dawn media is more than just a marketing agency—they are your partners in progress. Their mission is simple — to alleviate marketing bandwidth, allowing creative business owners to focus on what they set out to do: create. sienna dawn media empowers creatives to thrive without the burden of managing their own social media and marketing campaigns. So, if you're ready to set sail toward new horizons, let sienna dawn media chart the course and steer your business toward success. Visit siennadawnmedia.com.

Host Laura Arroyo talks with Dr. Christopher and Dr. Weiss about their practice, social media presence, and global impact through the Forever Smiles Foundation. Brought to you by the ACPA — the American Cleft Palate Craniofacial Association, uniting professionals to advance cleft and craniofacial care.

In this inspiring episode of the Our Forever Smiles podcast, host Laura Arroyo talks with Luci Capo Rome, a retired advanced practice registered nurse born with a bilateral cleft lip and palate. Luci shares her decades-long journey as an advocate for the cleft community, from supporting women born with cleft in the 1980s to her current role as Kansas state lead for the Ensuring Lasting Smiles Act. She discusses her work with Smile Train, the Cleft Community Advisory Council, and the Cleft Community Support Council, while shedding light on the urgent need for lifelong insurance coverage for those with congenital anomalies.

In this heartfelt episode of the Our Forever Smiles podcast, host Laura Arroyo sits down with Britany Filipkowski and her daughter Sophia, a courageous young girl born with a left unilateral complete cleft lip, maxilla/alveolus, and palate. Britany shares their family's journey, from early diagnosis and NICU days to feeding challenges, multiple surgeries, and the emotions of navigating cleft care. Together they reflect on the strength and resilience Sophia has shown, the importance of craniofacial teams and support organizations, and a moving tribute to Sophia's surgeon who passed away just before her third surgery. Links and Resources: Patreon Subscription Tiers for Exclusive Content Our Forever Smiles Merch Store NC Cleft Mom FB Group Our Forever Smiles FB Group ______________________________________________________________________________ Today's sponsor is sienna dawn media Integrated Marketing Agency sienna dawn media is more than just a marketing agency—they are your partners in progress. Their mission is simple — to alleviate marketing bandwidth, allowing creative business owners to focus on what they set out to do: create. sienna dawn media empowers creatives to thrive without the burden of managing their own social media and marketing campaigns. So, if you're ready to set sail toward new horizons, let sienna dawn media chart the course and steer your business toward success. Visit siennadawnmedia.com.

Straight from the ACPA Annual Meeting in Atlanta, we sit down with Suzanne "Suzie" Santomieri, cleft coordinator at the NC Cleft & Craniofacial Center and proud cleft mama. Suzie opens up about her emotional journey from special education teacher to advocate after her own daughter's diagnosis. Now she walks hand in hand with families through every twist and turn of the cleft journey. In this heartfelt conversation Suzie shares the strategies she's learned along the way and why attending the annual ACPA meeting is vital for both professionals and families to find community, stay informed, and never feel alone. Links and Resources: Patreon Subscription Tiers for Exclusive Content Our Forever Smiles Merch Store NC Cleft Mom FB Group Our Forever Smiles FB Group ______________________________________________________________________________ Today's sponsor is sienna dawn media Integrated Marketing Agency sienna dawn media is more than just a marketing agency—they are your partners in progress. Their mission is simple — to alleviate marketing bandwidth, allowing creative business owners to focus on what they set out to do: create. sienna dawn media empowers creatives to thrive without the burden of managing their own social media and marketing campaigns. So, if you're ready to set sail toward new horizons, let sienna dawn media chart the course and steer your business toward success. Visit siennadawnmedia.com.

We're at the ACPA Annual Meeting with returning guest and CozeeCoo founder and CEO Jennifer Stelmakh. Born from her real life frustrations with medical solutions and interventions, Jennifer created CozeeCoo, a thoughtfully designed surgical recovery vest that keeps little arms safe and healing cozy while finally replacing stiff elbow restraints. Jennifer shares how the energy and collaboration at ACPA fuel her passion for innovation and community impact. Tune in as she reveals new CozeeCoo updates, what she's learned on her entrepreneurial journey, and why the annual meeting remains critical to transforming support for cleft families everywhere. Links and Resources: Patreon Subscription Tiers for Exclusive Content Our Forever Smiles Merch Store NC Cleft Mom FB Group Our Forever Smiles FB Group ______________________________________________________________________________ Today's sponsor is sienna dawn media Integrated Marketing Agency sienna dawn media is more than just a marketing agency—they are your partners in progress. Their mission is simple — to alleviate marketing bandwidth, allowing creative business owners to focus on what they set out to do: create. sienna dawn media empowers creatives to thrive without the burden of managing their own social media and marketing campaigns. So, if you're ready to set sail toward new horizons, let sienna dawn media chart the course and steer your business toward success. Visit siennadawnmedia.com.

Filmed at the ACPA Annual Meeting, a powerful hub for knowledge sharing and connection, this episode features clinical psychologist and cleft advocate Dr. Danielle McWilliams. Born with a cleft herself, Danielle merges lived experience and academic insight to explore how gender, appearance, and identity intersect. She shares highlights from her groundbreaking doctoral thesis amplifying the voices of other women born with a cleft, stories that have rarely been told so candidly. Join us for a raw and insightful conversation about visibility, womanhood, and why gatherings like the ACPA Annual Meeting are essential for pushing the cleft community forward together. Links and Resources: Patreon Subscription Tiers for Exclusive Content Our Forever Smiles Merch Store NC Cleft Mom FB Group Our Forever Smiles FB Group ______________________________________________________________________________ Today's sponsor is sienna dawn media Integrated Marketing Agency sienna dawn media is more than just a marketing agency—they are your partners in progress. Their mission is simple — to alleviate marketing bandwidth, allowing creative business owners to focus on what they set out to do: create. sienna dawn media empowers creatives to thrive without the burden of managing their own social media and marketing campaigns. So, if you're ready to set sail toward new horizons, let sienna dawn media chart the course and steer your business toward success. Visit siennadawnmedia.com.

Recorded live at the ACPA Annual Meeting, where cleft professionals, advocates, and families unite to advance care, this episode spotlights Meg Lico, Principal Speech-Language Pathologist. Winner of the 2024 ACPA Young Professional Award and creator of the viral "Nose Movie," Meg shares how her innovative approaches help demystify nasoendoscopy for children. From her journey in public health and Columbia graduate to nationally recognized leader, Meg reflects on why the annual meeting is a must for staying ahead in cleft care and how collaborative learning directly benefits the families she serves. Links and Resources: The Craniofacial SLP Instagram Patreon Subscription Tiers for Exclusive Content Our Forever Smiles Merch Store NC Cleft Mom FB Group Our Forever Smiles FB Group ______________________________________________________________________________ Today's sponsor is sienna dawn media Integrated Marketing Agency sienna dawn media is more than just a marketing agency—they are your partners in progress. Their mission is simple — to alleviate marketing bandwidth, allowing creative business owners to focus on what they set out to do: create. sienna dawn media empowers creatives to thrive without the burden of managing their own social media and marketing campaigns. So, if you're ready to set sail toward new horizons, let sienna dawn media chart the course and steer your business toward success. Visit siennadawnmedia.com.

In this powerful episode of Our Forever Smiles, Laura Arroyo talks with Ellen Coulter, a media relations professional, wife, and mom of two. Ellen shares her emotional journey after learning about her son Henry's cleft diagnosis during pregnancy. The hardest part, she says, was the space between diagnosis and birth, a season filled with overwhelming guilt, fear, and uncertainty. Ellen speaks candidly about how isolating those months felt and how she longed for the kind of support this podcast now provides. Her story is a reminder that you are not alone and that healing can begin even before your baby arrives. Links and Resources: Patreon Subscription Tiers for Exclusive Content Our Forever Smiles Merch Store NC Cleft Mom FB Group Our Forever Smiles FB Group ______________________________________________________________________________ Today's sponsor is sienna dawn media Integrated Marketing Agency sienna dawn media is more than just a marketing agency—they are your partners in progress. Their mission is simple — to alleviate marketing bandwidth, allowing creative business owners to focus on what they set out to do: create. sienna dawn media empowers creatives to thrive without the burden of managing their own social media and marketing campaigns. So, if you're ready to set sail toward new horizons, let sienna dawn media chart the course and steer your business toward success. Visit siennadawnmedia.com.

In this episode of Our Forever Smiles, Laura sits down with Stacey Howell, a teacher turned homeschool mom and devoted wife of 16 years. Stacey shares the powerful story behind her family's cleft journey. She talks about the importance of finding the right cleft team, even if it means traveling far from home, and how faith guided her through it all. Her son recently underwent bone graft surgery at Boston Children's Hospital and is doing well. From advocating for her child to embracing each step of the process, Stacey's story is filled with wisdom, strength, and encouragement for families navigating cleft care. Links and Resources: Patreon Subscription Tiers for Exclusive Content Our Forever Smiles Merch Store NC Cleft Mom FB Group Our Forever Smiles FB Group ______________________________________________________________________________ Today's sponsor is sienna dawn media Integrated Marketing Agency sienna dawn media is more than just a marketing agency—they are your partners in progress. Their mission is simple — to alleviate marketing bandwidth, allowing creative business owners to focus on what they set out to do: create. sienna dawn media empowers creatives to thrive without the burden of managing their own social media and marketing campaigns. So, if you're ready to set sail toward new horizons, let sienna dawn media chart the course and steer your business toward success. Visit siennadawnmedia.com.

In this powerful episode of Our Forever Smiles, host Laura Arroyo sits down with Lauren Greenlee, a wife, first-time mom, marketing coordinator, and owner of an online baby boys clothing boutique. Lauren shares the raw and emotional story of her son's birth with a cleft lip and how her hospital experience fell heartbreakingly short of the care every family deserves. She reads the compelling email she sent to the hospital, detailing the failures that occurred during her labor and delivery, and discusses why speaking up for ourselves and our children is so crucial. Lauren also opens up about the role of her faith in navigating uncertainty, the search for a cleft community, and the connections that have brought her hope and strength. This is an episode for anyone seeking courage, community, and the reminder that your voice matters, even when the system falls short. Links and Resources: Patreon Subscription Tiers for Exclusive Content Our Forever Smiles Merch Store NC Cleft Mom FB Group Our Forever Smiles FB Group ______________________________________________________________________________ Today's sponsor is sienna dawn media Integrated Marketing Agency sienna dawn media is more than just a marketing agency—they are your partners in progress. Their mission is simple — to alleviate marketing bandwidth, allowing creative business owners to focus on what they set out to do: create. sienna dawn media empowers creatives to thrive without the burden of managing their own social media and marketing campaigns. So, if you're ready to set sail toward new horizons, let sienna dawn media chart the course and steer your business toward success. Visit siennadawnmedia.com.

In this episode, Laura Arroyo sits down with Dr. Aditi Kanth, a board-certified plastic surgeon and fellowship-trained pediatric plastic and craniofacial surgeon. As co-director of the Rutgers Health Cleft and Craniofacial Program at Bristol Myers Squibb Children's Hospital in New Brunswick, New Jersey, Dr. Kanth shares her deep commitment to patient and family-centered care. Together, they discuss the importance of having the right conversations with patients, creating a gentle and compassionate environment, and ensuring families feel supported throughout their cleft and craniofacial journeys. Dr. Kanth also opens up about being a mom to her two-year-old and how her personal connection to clefts in her own family fuels her passion for increasing access to care and making families feel comfortable every step of the way. Tune in for an inspiring conversation that blends professional expertise with heartfelt dedication to the cleft community. Links and Resources: Patreon Subscription Tiers for Exclusive Content Our Forever Smiles Merch Store NC Cleft Mom FB Group Our Forever Smiles FB Group ______________________________________________________________________________ Today's sponsor is sienna dawn media Integrated Marketing Agency sienna dawn media is more than just a marketing agency—they are your partners in progress. Their mission is simple — to alleviate marketing bandwidth, allowing creative business owners to focus on what they set out to do: create. sienna dawn media empowers creatives to thrive without the burden of managing their own social media and marketing campaigns. So, if you're ready to set sail toward new horizons, let sienna dawn media chart the course and steer your business toward success. Visit siennadawnmedia.com.

In this heartfelt episode, host Laura Arroyo sits down with Krista Pietersma, founder of Cuddles for Clefts, to share an inspiring journey of love, loss, and advocacy. Krista opens up about discovering her son's cleft diagnosis and how it fueled her desire to make a difference in the cleft community. She explains how Cuddles for Clefts was born, an organization that provides comfort and connection through handmade blankets and care packages for cleft-affected children and families. Krista also honors the memory of her son's beloved surgeon, Dr. David Genecov, whose tragic passing in a car accident left a lasting impact on the cleft world. Join us for a moving conversation about finding purpose through personal trials and the power of community support. Links and Resources: Cuddles for Clefts website Patreon Subscription Tiers for Exclusive Content Our Forever Smiles Merch Store NC Cleft Mom FB Group Our Forever Smiles FB Group ______________________________________________________________________________ Today's sponsor is sienna dawn media Integrated Marketing Agency sienna dawn media is more than just a marketing agency—they are your partners in progress. Their mission is simple — to alleviate marketing bandwidth, allowing creative business owners to focus on what they set out to do: create. sienna dawn media empowers creatives to thrive without the burden of managing their own social media and marketing campaigns. So, if you're ready to set sail toward new horizons, let sienna dawn media chart the course and steer your business toward success. Visit siennadawnmedia.com.

In this engaging episode of Our Forever Smiles, host Laura Arroyo sits down with Liv Broads, a UK mom whose son Rio was born with a unilateral cleft lip and gum notch. Liv shares her experience navigating Rio's cleft journey, from the early days of diagnosis to preparing for surgery in the UK healthcare system. Together, they discuss the aesthetics of cleft lip repair and why it's important for parents to feel empowered to talk openly with surgeons about their wishes and expectations. Liv also highlights the incredible support she's received from CLAPA (Cleft Lip and Palate Association) and shares her excitement about her upcoming skydive on July 20th to raise funds for the organization. Liv talks candidly about daily life with a cleft-affected baby, her partnership with Dr. Brown's, and her mission to bring hope and resources to other families on the same path. This episode is a heartfelt reminder of the power of community, advocacy, and finding your voice in the cleft journey. Links and Resources: Support Liv's SkyDive for CLAPA Patreon Subscription Tiers for Exclusive Content Our Forever Smiles Merch Store NC Cleft Mom FB Group Our Forever Smiles FB Group ______________________________________________________________________________ Today's sponsor is sienna dawn media Integrated Marketing Agency sienna dawn media is more than just a marketing agency—they are your partners in progress. Their mission is simple — to alleviate marketing bandwidth, allowing creative business owners to focus on what they set out to do: create. sienna dawn media empowers creatives to thrive without the burden of managing their own social media and marketing campaigns. So, if you're ready to set sail toward new horizons, let sienna dawn media chart the course and steer your business toward success. Visit siennadawnmedia.com.

In this relatable episode of Our Forever Smiles, host Laura Arroyo talks with Sara Breen, a full-time working mom, program manager, and cleft parent living in Chicago. Sara opens up about her experience returning to work after her son Boomer's cleft diagnosis and navigating daycare through multiple procedures and recovery periods. She shares how she prepared daycare staff, advocated for her son's needs, and built a strong partnership with his caregivers. With honesty and practical advice, Sara offers tips for other working parents balancing career, cleft care, and early childhood transitions. This episode is full of encouragement for cleft moms figuring it all out one step, one surgery, and one day at a time. Links and Resources: Patreon Subscription Tiers for Exclusive Content Our Forever Smiles Merch Store NC Cleft Mom FB Group Our Forever Smiles FB Group ______________________________________________________________________________ Today's sponsor is sienna dawn media Integrated Marketing Agency sienna dawn media is more than just a marketing agency—they are your partners in progress. Their mission is simple — to alleviate marketing bandwidth, allowing creative business owners to focus on what they set out to do: create. sienna dawn media empowers creatives to thrive without the burden of managing their own social media and marketing campaigns. So, if you're ready to set sail toward new horizons, let sienna dawn media chart the course and steer your business toward success. Visit siennadawnmedia.com.

In this powerful episode of Our Forever Smiles, host Laura Arroyo speaks with Dr. Anna Thurmes, a cleft-affected adult, speech-language pathologist, professor, and member of the University of Minnesota Cleft and Craniofacial Team, where she was once a patient herself. Born with a cleft lip and palate, Dr. Thurmes shares how her lived experience shaped her personal and professional path. As host of The Cleft Collective Podcast and a PhD in Family Social Science, Dr. Thurmes brings a unique, compassionate perspective to cleft care. She opens up about her own cleft journey, the importance of mental and emotional support, and how she now helps other families navigate their own stories. This episode is a meaningful conversation about identity, advocacy, and the power of turning lived experience into purpose. Links and Resources: Anna Thurmes on Instagram Patreon Subscription Tiers for Exclusive Content Our Forever Smiles Merch Store NC Cleft Mom FB Group Our Forever Smiles FB Group ______________________________________________________________________________ Today's sponsor is sienna dawn media Integrated Marketing Agency sienna dawn media is more than just a marketing agency—they are your partners in progress. Their mission is simple — to alleviate marketing bandwidth, allowing creative business owners to focus on what they set out to do: create. sienna dawn media empowers creatives to thrive without the burden of managing their own social media and marketing campaigns. So, if you're ready to set sail toward new horizons, let sienna dawn media chart the course and steer your business toward success. Visit siennadawnmedia.com.

In this heartfelt episode of Our Forever Smiles, host Laura Arroyo talks with Colleen Bennett, a Washington State native and military spouse of 18 years. Colleen shares the emotional story of discovering her daughter's bilateral cleft lip and palate diagnosis while her husband was deployed, and the loneliness that followed in the early days of uncertainty. Determined to advocate for her daughter, Colleen began researching cleft care on her own and discovered just how much treatment plans can vary by hospital. She shares what she learned about the benefits of NAM (nasoalveolar molding), how it can support both families and surgeons, and why clear communication with siblings is so important. Her passion and perspective offer comfort, clarity, and strength to any parent navigating a new diagnosis. This episode is a moving reminder that while the cleft journey can begin in isolation, it often leads to powerful advocacy and deep connection. Links and Resources: Patreon Subscription Tiers for Exclusive Content Our Forever Smiles Merch Store NC Cleft Mom FB Group Our Forever Smiles FB Group ______________________________________________________________________________ Today's sponsor is sienna dawn media Integrated Marketing Agency sienna dawn media is more than just a marketing agency—they are your partners in progress. Their mission is simple — to alleviate marketing bandwidth, allowing creative business owners to focus on what they set out to do: create. sienna dawn media empowers creatives to thrive without the burden of managing their own social media and marketing campaigns. So, if you're ready to set sail toward new horizons, let sienna dawn media chart the course and steer your business toward success. Visit siennadawnmedia.com.

In this heartfelt episode of Our Forever Smiles, host Laura Arroyo talks with Tara and Michael Cory about their journey as a couple after receiving their son's incomplete unilateral cleft lip diagnosis. They share openly about the initial shock, the emotional grief process, and how they came to a place of acceptance and clarity about their son's future. Through personal stories and thoughtful reflections, Tara and Michael offer a powerful perspective on navigating a cleft diagnosis together. Their honest conversation is filled with hope, support, and encouragement for other families walking a similar path. This episode is a reminder that while the cleft journey may begin with uncertainty, it can also be filled with resilience, love, and strength. Links and Resources: Tara Cory on Instagram Patreon Subscription Tiers for Exclusive Content Our Forever Smiles Merch Store NC Cleft Mom FB Group Our Forever Smiles FB Group ______________________________________________________________________________ Today's sponsor is sienna dawn media Integrated Marketing Agency sienna dawn media is more than just a marketing agency—they are your partners in progress. Their mission is simple — to alleviate marketing bandwidth, allowing creative business owners to focus on what they set out to do: create. sienna dawn media empowers creatives to thrive without the burden of managing their own social media and marketing campaigns. So, if you're ready to set sail toward new horizons, let sienna dawn media chart the course and steer your business toward success. Visit siennadawnmedia.com.

In this inspiring episode of Our Forever Smiles, host Laura Arroyo is joined by Katie Manning, a trauma coach, artist, teacher, and cleft mom whose work is reshaping how we understand the emotional landscape of cleft parenting. Katie opens up about her experience raising a child with a cleft while also being married to someone who is cleft affected. Together, they discuss the internal tension Katie faced when sharing stories that weren't fully her own and how she ultimately found purpose in building a platform for healing and connection. Katie shares the heart behind launching The 100 Cleft Portrait Exhibition, the first of its kind, and the powerful stories it brings to light. She also offers insight into trauma coaching and how she supports families navigating the complex relationship between cleft and emotional well-being. This episode is a moving exploration of storytelling, resilience, and the importance of tending to our own healing as we support our children. Links and Resources: Katie Manning on Instagram Tickets to the 100 Cleft Portrait Exhibition Patreon Subscription Tiers for Exclusive Content Our Forever Smiles Merch Store NC Cleft Mom FB Group Our Forever Smiles FB Group ______________________________________________________________________________ Today's sponsor is sienna dawn media Integrated Marketing Agency sienna dawn media is more than just a marketing agency—they are your partners in progress. Their mission is simple — to alleviate marketing bandwidth, allowing creative business owners to focus on what they set out to do: create. sienna dawn media empowers creatives to thrive without the burden of managing their own social media and marketing campaigns. So, if you're ready to set sail toward new horizons, let sienna dawn media chart the course and steer your business toward success. Visit siennadawnmedia.com.