About Exceptional & Unfiltered Ep. 1 - That Was the Moment
Welcome to Exceptional & Unfiltered - a podcast made by three moms navigating the real, beautiful, messy life of raising kids with special needs. We're so glad you're here.
Episode 1 - That Was the Moment
There’s a moment that changes everything.
The one that defines your before and after.
In this episode, we share the moment our children were diagnosed with disabilities — the shock, the grief, the questions, and the reality that life would never look the same. That was the moment.
Exceptional & Unfiltered Ep. 13 - Would You Rather?
Grab a snack and join us for a fun game of "Would You Rather?", Exceptional & Unfiltered-style! From safety-food shortages to bad bedside manner, choosing between bad and worse in these silly scenarios.
Make sure to turn your volume up this episode, as Callie asks us questions from behind the camera. We hope you enjoy, and don't forget to send us your own "Would You Rather?" in the comments!
14 Oct 2026
Exceptional & Unfiltered Ep. 14 - Transitions, Teachers & Mr. Potato Head
In this special "back-to-school" edition of Exceptional & Unfiltered, Teresa welcomes her dear friend and today's guest, Dr. April Workman, to discuss transitions big and small - from the morning rush to changing routines.
April has extensive experience working in special education, and is beloved by her students and their parents. Join us as we share her invaluable insight and pick up a few new tips for working through life transitional moments. Don't forget to join the conversation in the comments with memories or questions on transitions!
14 Oct 2026
Exceptional & Unfiltered - We've Lived Here for Years, But We Just Got Home
Inspired by a pre-filming conversation, this week's episode was borne out of a single sentence. When Teresa said "I've lived here for years, but it never felt like home... until now", we knew we had to press record.
This episode explores what makes a community feel like home. We all know the phrase "make a house a home", but we seldom consider what makes a community feel like home. Maybe instead of decor and curtains, your family needs support, inclusive spaces, and familiar faces. Today we're talking about all the ways "where we live" has transformed into where we belong, and how you can make your community feel more like home too.
Don't forget to join the conversation in the comments!
14 Aug 2026
Exceptional & Unfiltered Ep. 12 - More Than A Label
How much do assumptions shape the way we see others? This week on Exceptional & Unfiltered, we're talking about why no two people are the same—even if they share the same diagnosis. We discuss the importance of looking beyond labels, getting to know each person as an individual, and recognizing that everyone's experiences, interests, and communication styles are unique. Because the best way to understand someone isn't by making assumptions—it's by taking the time to know them.
14 Aug 2026
Exceptional & Unfiltered Ep. 11 - &me Moments
n today's episode, we discuss how sometimes the most meaningful inclusion can happen in small, fleeting moments. Inclusion does not always mean large, elaborate efforts or going out of our way. Sometimes, inclusion just happens in everyday moments and becomes a core part of who we are. Perhaps inclusion isn't so much an activity as it is a state of being, a mindset, and a culture that welcomes everyone without giving a second thought.
Join us as we discuss the bright moments in our communities where inclusion and acceptance wasn't loud or labeled, but the impact lingered long after the moment passed.
14 Aug 2026
Exceptional & Unfiltered Ep. 10 - The Siblings' Side
This week we welcomed Alysha and Melissa's sons, Jacob and Corey, to discuss their experience growing up as a sibling to someone with special needs. The boys certainly don't hold back as they share some of their favorite family memories (whether their moms like it or not), while Alysha and Melissa express their feelings as moms trying to balance their attention between multiple children with varied needs.
This episode packs a TON of humor, fun, and heartwarming moments as we celebrate two beautiful families with unique dynamics and endless love for one another. Join in on the conversation below and tell us bout your experience!
1 Jul 2026
Exceptional & Unfiltered Ep. 9 - Assumptions
In today's episode, Melissa, Tereasa, and Alysha reflect on the moments and comments that have stayed with them over the years. Parenting a child with special needs often comes with self-doubt and an ever-present inner critic—but what happens when those feelings are reinforced by the words or assumptions of others?
From awkward encounters at the grocery store to posts on social media, the hosts share experiences where split-second judgments left a lasting impact. Together, they explore the importance of extending grace, recognizing that every family's journey looks different, and remembering that what we see on the surface is rarely the whole story.
30 Jun 2026
Exceptional & Unfiltered Ep. 8 - Bribes and Goldfish Poppin'
This week, we're talking about our saving grace when the pressure's on, a meltdown is eminent, and time is of the essence. That's right, we're talking about bribes. Whether it's a well-timed goldfish cracker or an ice-cold Dr. Pepper, we're sharing the little motivators that make all the difference in sticky situations.
There's a lot of laughs, smiles, and sweet moments in today's episode and we don't want you to miss it! Don't forget to join in the conversation and share your strategy for making it through tricky moments in the comments!
9 Jun 2026
Exceptional & Unfiltered - Vacation
In this week's episode, we're talking about vacations (and sometimes needing a vacation from the vacation). From airports, to road trips, travel accessibility, and packing mayhem, we cover it all in this summer edition of Exceptional & Unfiltered.
If your vacations can sometimes inspire a little more chaos than relaxation, this one's for you! Pull up a chair, grab a snack, and join us for today's conversation!
9 Jun 2026
Exceptional & Unfiltered Ep. 6 - The Graduates
In this week's episode, we talk about an important milestone - high school graduation, and how this celebratory occasion can look a little different for special needs families. Graduation brings a mixture of bittersweet feelings for any parent, but in this episode, we dive into the complexities, worries, and rays of hope that accompany graduation for parents of children with special needs.
We talk about the support provided by the school system and staff, worries about big transitions post-graduation, accommodations for graduation ceremonies, and the process of navigating and creating resources to maintain a high quality of life once the high-school chapter closes.
This is an episode full of honesty, real conversation, and determination to create the brightest future possible for our kids. We invite you to sit down with us, give it a listen, and share your experience!
1 May 2026
Exceptional & Unfiltered Ep. 5 - The Good
In this episode, Melissa, Alysha, and Teresa share their favorite parts about being moms to children with special needs. The happy moments, the blessings in disguise, and all the goodness in between. Today we're focusing and all the things that make this life beautiful and exceptional, so pull up a chair and sit a spell with us!
15 Apr 2026
Exceptional & Unfiltered Ep. 4 - What Keeps Us Up at Night and What Holds Us Together
Caregiving doesn’t get easier—it changes.
In this episode, we talk about growing older alongside our children, facing the question no one wants to ask—what happens when we’re gone?—and the shift from years of doing it alone to finally finding support, community, and a better quality of life for all of us.
1 Apr 2026
Exceptional & Unfiltered - He Said What?! Main Character Energy & Hilarious Moments
In Episode 3 of Exceptional & Unfiltered, Melissa, Teresa, and Alysha lighten things up—sharing the funniest, most unforgettable moments from life as special needs moms. From unexpected one-liners to their most chaotic moments (and a few solid mom fails), plus the quirky, hilarious things their kids do, this one brings the laughs. They’re also wearing blue for Autism Awareness Month to show support and raise awareness.
15 Mar 2026
Exceptional & Unfiltered - Identity Shifts
In this episode of Exceptional & Unfiltered, Alysha, Melissa, and Teresa talk about the identity shifts that happen when you become a parent to a child with special needs. They discuss changing dreams, balancing personal overwhelm with the needs of your family, and the constant question many caregivers ask themselves: Am I doing enough? Through honest conversation, they explore capacity, lifelong caregiving, and what it means to redefine yourself while still showing up for the people you love.
1 Mar 2026
Exceptional & Unfiltered - That Was the Moment
Welcome to Exceptional & Unfiltered - a podcast made by three moms navigating the real, beautiful, messy life of raising kids with special needs. We're so glad you're here.
Episode 1 - That Was the Moment
There’s a moment that changes everything.
The one that defines your before and after.
In this episode, we share the moment our children were diagnosed with disabilities — the shock, the grief, the questions, and the reality that life would never look the same. That was the moment.
Contact Exceptional & Unfiltered Ep. 1 - That Was the Moment
Guest appearances
Does not typically book guests
Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.
Host of Exceptional & Unfiltered Ep. 1 - That Was the Moment?
Claim your podcast to manage its listing and keep your show details accurate.
Pod Engine is an independent podcast discovery and analytics service and is not affiliated with or endorsed by this podcast. Artwork and show content belong to their owners. Full legal notice.
Explore this show Podcast research with Pod Engine
