The gut-wrenching reality of school violence hits home in our latest discussion, where we tackle the alarming incident involving an 18-year-old student's assault on a teacher aide. Our society's response, or lack thereof, to such incidents begs the question: What are we teaching our youth about consequences and compassion? It's not just about the unnerving statistics; it's the personal stories behind them that truly resonate. As we sift through the details of this case and its implications for school safety, we're reminded of the vital role of empathy and action in our communities.

When Abby Lee Miller reached out with words of admiration for our daughter Faith, it underscored the disparate worlds of entertainment and personal struggle with health adversities. Abby's interest in joining us on the podcast promises to bring her unique perspective on resilience and fortitude, something our family knows intimately as we navigate Faith's healing journey. In a warm blend of personal reflection and encouragement, this episode promises both the light-hearted family anecdotes you love and the inspiring stories that fuel our collective hope.

Finishing off with a dash of humor and nostalgia, we engage in a hearty debate over James Bond actors and our quirky attempts to remember all the faces behind the iconic 007. From taco nights to TikTok ventures and the endearing quirks of a 25-year marriage, we serve up a conversation that's as varied as it is vibrant. So pull up a chair, maybe grab a taco, and let's share in this tapestry of sobering reflections, family life, and the lighter side of things. Abby Lee Miller's anticipated presence only heightens the promise of an engaging listen.

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As Victoria celebrates her recent guardian ad litem state certification, we prance into a conversation that swerves from the humor in our dogs' odd licking habits to the gravity of advocating for children in the legal system. I'm not far behind with my own announcement as a new counselor for the amputee coalition, proving that personal triumphs come in many forms, including the four-legged variety that enjoys a good slobber. Our camaraderie crackles through the airwaves, as we not only toast to each other's achievements but also tackle the quirky side of pet ownership that often leaves us both baffled and belly-laughing.

The laughter gives way to a more earnest debate on the evolution of discipline and respect from our own childhoods in the 70s and 80s to today's family dynamics. We don't shy away from the thorny aspects of parenting as we share tales of teenage rebellion and the search for a middle ground between authority and understanding. Reflecting on the controversial use of corporal punishment, we dissect societal norms and share how our experiences have shaped our stance on non-violent behavior correction. Join us for a journey that's as enlightening as it is entertaining, packed with personal insights and a refreshing take on guiding the next generation.

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When my mentor Dave Camber, the 'Yoda' to my fledgling podcast journey, decided to honor us with his presence on our 200th episode, we knew it was going to be an event of celebration and retrospection. Dave's guiding wisdom not only shaped the character of our show but also inspired the evolution of a heartfelt book that chronicles the trials and triumphs of a little girl named Faith. We're also lifting the curtain on Guardian Mitleidem, my latest heartfelt venture focused on supporting children in dire need, and spotlighting a delightful cooking show that brings the essence of father-son bonding to your ears.

The strength and tenacity of a mother's love never cease to amaze, and in this episode, we are sharing a story that will leave your heart both wrenched and warmed. This journey through a mother's unwavering determination in the face of her daughter's fight for life in the NICU, the occasional apathy from onlookers, and the small miracles that define our existence, will remind you of the power of resilience. The podcasting path is riddled with challenges and victories alike, and today, we're also sharing a treasure trove of tips and real-life experiences that illuminate the importance of community support and the joy of connecting with listeners.

Wrapping up, we get into the nuts and bolts of beginning a podcast with nothing but a smartphone and a dream. I'll walk you through the surprising simplicity of sharing your voice with the world and the unexpected friendships and support that can blossom from such ventures. Through a mix of lighthearted anecdotes and profound gratitude, we emphasize the beauty of community and the strength found in the genuine connections we make along the way. So come along and join Michael and myself as we share laughter, stories and the kind of gratitude that only comes from 200 episodes of shared experiences and the people who make it all worth it.

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