Podcast
Our Forever Smiles with Laura Arroyo
Hosted by Laura C Arroyo · EN
Whether you've just learned the difficult news of your baby's cleft lip/palate, you're in the middle of your cleft lip/palate journey, or you're a seasoned pro who knows the many challenges of children who are born with clefts all too well, this podcast is for you!
Join your host, Laura C. Arroyo, mother of a daughter born with a cleft palate, in a weekly conversation about everything from feeding and speech therapy to surgeries and genetics. We'll share tips and advice from other moms who have been there and even share a little joy in the process.
If you're a cleft mom, or if you know someone who is, please subscribe to the Our Forever Smiles Podcast. We're here to support you on your journey.
Want to share your story or sponsor the show? Email us at ourforeversmiles@gmail.com
43episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
Helping Kids Feel Seen: Charlotte's Mission Beyond the Cleft
Jan 1300:40:52Tap to summarizeIn 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
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I Didn't Hear Anything Past 'Cleft Palate': Jessica's NICU Journey
Jan 600:56:00Tap to summarizeJessica 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
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State of Our Forever Smiles 2025 with Laura Arroyo
Dec 3000:15:14Tap to summarizeIn 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
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Helping Moms Come to Terms with Their Child’s Diagnosis (Christmas Eve Special)
Dec 24, 202400:20:32Tap to summarizeToday'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 special Christmas Eve episode of the Our Forever Smiles: Cleft Mom Diaries and Support podcast, Laura Arroyo offers emotional validation and practical advice for cleft moms who may be navigating the holiday season with a heavy heart. Whether it's your first Christmas with a cleft diagnosis or you’re reflecting on years of appointments and surgeries, Laura acknowledges the complex emotions that come with this journey. In this episode, Laura discusses how to process the emotional impact of your child’s diagnosis, how to manage the worry about medical appointments and appearance, and why it's okay to feel anxious or overwhelmed during the first year. She shares practical tips for moving forward with hope, including building a support network, finding balance, and connecting with other cleft moms at medical appointments. Join us for a comforting and supportive conversation that will remind you you’re not alone, especially during this season of both joy and uncertainty. Be sure to join our Facebook group for ongoing support and connect with other cleft moms who understand exactly what you’re going through. You can find the link here in the episode notes! Want to share your story? Email us at ourforeversmiles@gmail.com. Want to be a show sponsor? Email us at ourforeversmiles@gmail.com Follow us @ourforeversmiles on social platforms We know you will have questions! Join our FB Community to discuss the weekly episode and speak directly to our guests. https://www.facebook.com/groups/1081522212884073/
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Having Partner Support along the Cleft Lip and Palate Journey with Jimena Morua Marquez
Dec 17, 202400:44:14Tap to summarizeIn this heartfelt episode of the Forever Smiles podcast, host Laura Arroyo sits down with Jimena Morua Marquez, a passionate advocate and mother whose journey took a transformative turn when her son, Mateo, was born with a bilateral cleft lip and palate. Jimena candidly shares the emotional challenges she faced upon receiving Mateo's diagnosis, navigating her feelings of fear and uncertainty while also caring for her young daughter. Throughout the conversation, Jimena highlights the unwavering support of her husband, illustrating the vital role partnership plays during difficult times. As she reflects on her experiences, Jimena opens up about her journey of self-acceptance, learning not to blame herself, and her commitment to educating others through social media. Join us for this inspiring discussion that emphasizes resilience, family support, and the importance of community in the face of challenges. Jimena's story is a powerful reminder of the strength found in vulnerability and the impact one can have by sharing their journey. Tune in to learn more about advocacy, love, and finding light in the darkest moments. Want to share your story? Email us at ourforeversmiles@gmail.com. Want to be a show sponsor? Email us at ourforeversmiles@gmail.com Follow us @ourforeversmiles on social platforms We know you will have questions! Join our FB Community to discuss the weekly episode and speak directly to our guests. https://www.facebook.com/groups/1081522212884073/ __________________________________________________________________________________ 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.
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Being a First Time Mom in the Thick of a Cleft Lip Diagnosis with Summer Kormushoff
Dec 10, 202400:51:50Tap to summarizeIn this episode of Our Forever Smiles, host Laura Arroyo sits down with Summer Kormushoff for an intimate conversation about the challenges and triumphs of being a first-time mom navigating a cleft lip diagnosis. Summer shares her emotional journey, starting from the moment she learned about her son’s condition during a nuchal transparency scan. She opens up about the struggles of the NAM (Nasoalveolar Molding) process, detailing its complexities and the impact it has had on her family life. Through her experiences, Summer emphasizes the importance of education and support for families facing similar challenges. She talks about her commitment to spreading awareness about cleft conditions, hoping to help others feel less alone on their journeys. Their discussion highlights the resilience and love that define the parenting experience, especially in the face of unexpected obstacles. Want to share your story? Email us at ourforeversmiles@gmail.com. Want to be a show sponsor? Email us at ourforeversmiles@gmail.com Follow us @ourforeversmiles on social platforms We know you will have questions! Join our FB Community to discuss the weekly episode and speak directly to our guests. https://www.facebook.com/groups/1081522212884073/ __________________________________________________________________________________ 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.
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Ava the Brava: Embracing Differences with Allie Ekblad
Dec 3, 202400:54:29Tap to summarizeCLEFT MAMAS! OUR MERCH STORE IS NOW LIVE!! WE HAVE OUR CLEFT MOMS CLUB TEE AND THE FAUX OUR FOREVER SMILES TOUR MERCH!! GET YOURS TODAY!! __________________________________________________________________________________ In this inspiring episode, we welcome Allie Ekblad, a talented children's book author, illustrator, and founder of Brave Face Kids. After the birth of her second child with a bilateral cleft lip and palate, Allie realized there was a gap in parenting resources for educating young children about clefts. Driven by love and a desire to empower her children, she wrote her first book, Ava the Brava. Join host Laura Arroyo as they discuss Allie’s journey from marketing executive to stay-at-home mom, the challenges of navigating the medical world, and how Ava the Brava serves as a tool for teaching bravery and embracing our unique differences. 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.
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Mom Guilt and the Postpartum Cleft Journey with Alexis Garcia
Nov 26, 202400:35:43Tap to summarizeCLEFT MAMAS! OUR MERCH STORE IS NOW LIVE!! WE HAVE OUR CLEFT MOMS CLUB TEE AND THE FAUX OUR FOREVER SMILES TOUR MERCH!! GET YOURS TODAY!! __________________________________________________________________________________ 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, we sit down with Alexis Garcia, a dedicated mom who opens up about her emotional journey through the early days of motherhood after her child’s cleft diagnosis. Alexis shares her personal experiences with mom guilt, the emotional rollercoaster of navigating a cleft-affected newborn’s needs, and the unique challenges faced during the postpartum period. With raw honesty, she talks about the pressure to "do it all," the struggle to find balance, and the moments of strength she found in herself through it all. This episode offers support, understanding, and encouragement to all parents in the cleft community, especially those who may be facing similar emotional hurdles. Tune in for an honest conversation about the ups and downs of the cleft journey and the powerful bond between mother and child. We understand that the journey through a cleft diagnosis can feel overwhelming, especially during the postpartum period. If you're feeling isolated, anxious, or simply need someone to talk to, please know you're not alone. Many parents face similar challenges, and there are resources and communities ready to support you every step of the way. If you're struggling with mom guilt, emotional stress, or just need guidance on how to navigate your journey, here are a few places you can reach out to for support: The American Cleft Palate-Craniofacial Association (ACPA) www.acpa-cpf.org ACPA provides both educational resources and a network of healthcare professionals to help families understand cleft care and treatment options. Postpartum Support International (PSI) www.postpartum.net PSI offers mental health resources, support groups, and trained professionals for anyone experiencing postpartum depression, anxiety, or other emotional challenges. National Helpline for Emotional Support Call 1-800-273-TALK (1-800-273-8255) for free, confidential support from trained counselors. If you’re struggling with feelings of sadness, anxiety, or depression, don’t hesitate to reach out. Remember, asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness. It's okay to not have all the answers. Take care of yourself, and don’t hesitate to lean on the resources and communities available to you.
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Legendary Smiles, Legendary Advocacy: Monica Bush on Cleft Lip & Palate Care and Navigating the Medical Maze
Nov 19, 202401:05:49Tap to summarizeCLEFT MAMAS! OUR MERCH STORE IS NOW LIVE!! WE HAVE OUR CLEFT MOMS CLUB TEE AND THE FAUX OUR FOREVER SMILES TOUR MERCH!! GET YOURS TODAY!! In this heartfelt episode of the Our Forever Smiles podcast, host Laura Arroyo welcomes Monica Bush, a dedicated advocate and mother from Kokomo, Indiana. Monica is the founder of Legendary Smiles, a non-profit organization born from her deep appreciation for the importance of community. Monica shares her personal journey as a mom to a son born with a cleft lip and palate, offering a candid look at the emotional highs and lows of her experience. We delve into the challenges of preparing for surgery and explore practical strategies to help families navigate this critical aspect of the cleft journey. Monica also discusses her belief that nurses need additional education on cleft lip and palate care and emphasizes the importance of advocating for your child within the medical system to ensure they receive the best possible support. Tune in to hear Monica’s inspiring story and discover how the support of a strong community, informed healthcare professionals, and proactive advocacy can make all the difference. This episode provides invaluable insights and encouragement for anyone connected to the cleft community, highlighting the power of shared experiences and the need for continued education and awareness in cleft care. Want to share your story? Email us at ourforeversmiles@gmail.com. Want to be a show sponsor? Email us at ourforeversmiles@gmail.com Follow us @ourforeversmiles on social platforms We know you will have questions! Join our FB Community to discuss the weekly episode and speak directly to our guests. _______________________________________________________________________________ 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.
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Against the Odds: A Mother’s Journey with Breastfeeding and Cleft Palate Diagnosis with Anne Giocondini-Rodriguez
Nov 12, 202400:57:06Tap to summarizeIn this heartfelt episode of Our Forever Smiles, host Laura Arroyo sits down with Anne Giocondini-Rodriguez, a fellow mother whose son was born with a cleft palate, just like Laura’s daughter. Together, they share their unique journeys, diving into the emotional complexities of receiving the diagnosis at birth and the challenges that followed. Anne opens up about her unexpected C-section and the moment she first saw her son’s cleft palate. She candidly discusses the initial fears and uncertainties she faced as a new mom, particularly around feeding options. With resilience and determination, Anne shares her inspiring experience of navigating the hurdles of breastfeeding—a rare feat for mothers of children with cleft palates. Join us for a touching conversation filled with insights, struggles, and triumphs as Anne offers hope and encouragement to others on similar paths. Whether you’re a parent or simply interested in powerful stories of perseverance, this episode is sure to resonate with you. Tune in for a journey of love, resilience, and the unwavering bond between mother and child. Want to share your story? Email us at ourforeversmiles@gmail.com. Want to be a show sponsor? Email us at ourforeversmiles@gmail.com Follow us @ourforeversmiles on social platforms We know you will have questions! Join our FB Community to discuss the weekly episode and speak directly to our guests. https://www.facebook.com/groups/1081522212884073/ _______________________________________________________________________________ This podcast is completely free for you, but if you'd ever consider supporting the show, we truly appreciate it. One way you can do that is by using our affiliate links. These are links to products we've mentioned on the show, and if you make a purchase through one of them, we might earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. It's a great way to show your love for the podcast and help us keep creating content that educates, empowers, and strengthens the cleft lip and palate community! First Bottle to Purchase After Palate Repair - Post Palate Repair Straw Trainer Juselle’s Cleft Palate Bottle - Pigeon Bottle Specialty Feeder Sippy Cup for Pre Palate Repair Prep - Munchkin 360 Weigh your Baby at Home - Weighted Feeds Scale Squeezable Straw Training Bottle - Honey Bear Straw Cup Free Flow Cup for Pre palate Repair Prep - Reflo Smart Cup Pacifiers that have Worked for Cleft Lip and Palate Babies - Itzy Ritzy Pacifiers that have Worked for Cleft Lip and Palate Babies - MAM Pacifiers that have Worked for Cleft Lip and Palate Babies - Itzy Ritzy Scar Cream Recommended by Alexis Garcia, Cleft Lip Mom - bioCorneum - Pricey**
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