The Bert Show - Episode Summary

Episode Title: Listen To The Sweetest Letter To These Bert's Big Adventure Siblings
Date: February 23, 2026
Podcast: The Bert Show

Episode Overview

This heartfelt episode of The Bert Show focuses on the unique bonds between siblings in families taking part in Bert’s Big Adventure 2026, a program that offers magical experiences to children with chronic and terminal illnesses and their families. The episode centers around one such family, celebrating how the siblings support each other through extraordinary circumstances, mixing plenty of laughter and tears. Midway, a touching letter from their mother, Beth, to her children becomes the emotional highlight, paying tribute to the resilience and love within the family.

Key Discussion Points & Insights

Introductions and Family Dynamics

[01:31 – 02:55]

• The cast introduces a vibrant family group: Manny, Laney, Beth (parent), Olivia, Mari (older sibling), Torion, Ensley, and others.
• The hosts joke about running out of microphones due to the large, close-knit group.
• Manny, dubbed "Manny the Man," is celebrated for his confidence and charm, especially during a memorable experience at Disney’s Bibbidi Boppidi Boutique.
  • Quote [02:23]: "He’s already Prince Charming and he knows that… he was hugging on himself in the mirror before he even became a prince." — Host (Burke)

Special Experiences at Disney

[02:13 – 03:01]

• Discussion around Bibbidi Boppidi Boutique’s inclusivity, transforming boys into Prince Charming and handing them swords and shields, boosting their confidence.
• Highlights the joy and pride parents experience watching their kids find magic in such moments.

The Importance of Siblings’ Support

[03:20 – 05:24]

• Beth (parent) shares that Manny has trisomy 21 and congenital heart disease while Laney is a cancer survivor—both are Bert’s Big Adventure Kids.
• Amanda (family observer) reflects on the selflessness and support prevalent among the siblings:
  • Mari is seen delightfully doing makeovers for younger sister Ensley in a hotel bathroom.
  • AJ, an older brother from another family, uses his gift card to surprise his brother Aiden.
• The theme emerges that older siblings, despite personal grief and challenges, actively share in their siblings' joy and happiness.
  • Quote [04:58]: "They were always smiling… you could just see how much contentment it brought them to watch their siblings experience joy when they've had to be selfless for years." — Amanda

Sibling Perspective and Family Pride

[05:41 – 07:15]

• Mari, the eldest sibling, shares her perspective:
  • She describes being a role model, sharing clothes and makeup, and hosting regular "sleepovers" with her siblings even after heading to college.
  • Acknowledges sometimes needing space, especially with the "wild child" Ensley, but stresses the closeness.
  • Quote [06:01]: "They like to have sleepovers in my room. They will always be in my bed. Even the times where I left college, they were still in my bed." — Mari
• The hosts and Beth praise the love, unity, and mutual care in the family.
  • Quote [06:49]: "Thank God for Maury." — Beth (parent)

Emotional Moments and Grandparent Reflections

[07:16 – 08:32]

• Host (Burke) recalls nearly being moved to tears by Olivia’s emotional hug at Bibbidi Boppidi Boutique.
• The grandmother likens the excitement to milestone life events.
  • Quote [07:32]: "It reminded me of prom, of getting ready for a wedding. It was just a big event… It was so beautiful." — Grandmother
• She shares delight in seeing even the youngest family members enjoying roller coasters and adventures.

Family Fun and Humor

[08:32 – 09:47]

• Discussion turns to Disney ride favorites (Tron, Slinky Dog) and family stamina at the park.
• Lainey is praised for her effective fart jokes, bringing laughter and much-needed levity for the whole group.
  • Quote [09:33]: "There has to be humor when you have a family this size going through what they're going through." — Host (Burke)
• The necessity of finding joy and laughter amidst adversity is emphasized.

The Sweetest Letter: A Mother’s Words

[09:47 – 10:45]

• Beth reads a touching letter to Laney and Manny:
  • She expresses gratitude for the lessons her children have taught her: patience, faith, resilience, and self-belief.
  • Highlights Laney’s bravery and Manny’s joy, calling them her "favorite superheroes."
  • Quote [09:52]: "Parents are supposed to teach their kids, but Laney and Manny, you have taught me… to have the greatest faith, resilience, and that you can achieve any goal as long as you believe in yourself." — Beth
  • Quote [10:33]: "Manny, the sweetest guy ever. You’ve taught me not to take anything for granted, take joy in all the wins, and to enter every day like it’s the best day ever. You’re both my favorite superheroes." — Beth

Last Words and A Sense of Community

[10:45 – 10:59]

• The hosts reaffirm how glad they are to have the family as part of their extended Bert’s Big Adventure group.
  • Quote [10:47]: "So glad you guys are part of our family now. Hope to see you at all of our reunions." — Host (Burke)

Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• [02:23] Host (Burke): "He is already Prince Charming and he knows that… he was hugging on himself in the mirror before he even became a prince."
• [04:58] Amanda: "They were always smiling… you could just see how much contentment it brought them to watch their siblings experience joy when they've had to be selfless for years."
• [06:01] Mari: "They like to have sleepovers in my room… Even the times where I left college, they were still in my bed."
• [07:32] Grandmother: "It reminded me of prom, of getting ready for a wedding. It was just a big event…"
• [09:33] Host (Burke): "There has to be humor when you have a family this size going through what they're going through."
• [09:52] Beth: "Parents are supposed to teach their kids, but Laney and Manny, you have taught me…"
• [10:33] Beth: "Manny, the sweetest guy ever. You’ve taught me not to take anything for granted… You’re both my favorite superheroes."

Important Segment Timestamps

• 01:31 – Family introductions and Manny’s big personality
• 02:13 – Bibbidi Boppidi Boutique experience for the boys
• 03:01 – Beth discusses Manny and Laney’s medical journeys
• 03:41 – Amanda describes sibling support moments
• 06:01 – Mari shares about being the oldest sibling
• 07:32 – Emotional grandma moment after the princess experience
• 08:32 – Family’s favorite rides and theme park adventures
• 09:19 – Lainey’s legendary fart jokes
• 09:47 – Beth reads her touching letter to her children
• 10:45 – Hosts reinforce the family’s place in the Bert’s Big Adventure community

Summary Flow & Tone

The episode is full of warmth and authenticity, blending humor, vulnerability, and pride. The tone remains upbeat and supportive, as the hosts facilitate genuine moments between the family members—especially highlighting the often unseen strength of siblings in families facing extraordinary health challenges. The letter from Beth encapsulates the gratitude and admiration parents can feel for their children's courage and resilience.

Listeners will leave inspired, entertained, and deeply moved—even without having heard the full broadcast.