Podcast Summary: The Bert Show
Episode: Relive the Magic: Bert's Big Adventure Kid Forrest Shares His Trip Highlights!
Date: February 23, 2026

Episode Overview

This episode of The Bert Show centers on Forrest, an 8-year-old with multiple limb differences, and his mom, Alex, as they recount their unforgettable experiences during Burt's Big Adventure—a charitable trip to Disney World for children with chronic and terminal illnesses. The episode highlights Forrest’s extraordinary spirit, his approach to life, memorable moments at Disney, and the profound impact the Adventure had on him, his family, and new friends along the journey.

Key Discussion Points & Highlights

1. Introducing Forrest: Remarkable Resilience and Charisma

• [01:45] Host introduces Forrest and his mother, Alex, underscoring Forrest's "magic" and playful leadership:
  • Forrest jokes about renaming the trip “Bjart’s Big Adventure” and eventually “Be Art the Egg Adventure.”
  • Alex describes Forrest’s physical differences and vibrant personality:

    “He is so smart, so funny, so social, but physically very different than the typical person...he moves through this world with just a radically different embodiment...but he's a total blast to raise.” — Alex, [02:29]

2. Forrest’s Boundless Capability & Leadership

• [03:13] Hosts rave about Forrest’s ability to light up a room and his refusal to be limited by his differences.
  • Anecdotes about Forrest playing football and participating at the dance party:

    “There are no limitations with this kid...nobody should ever underestimate this kid because he can do everything.” — Host, [03:13]

• [04:14] Discussion about Forrest's independence at the pool, and Alex’s approach to empowerment:
  • Alex frequently holds back from assisting Forrest so he can accomplish things independently:

    “I try to empower him to do things himself when he's able to.” — Alex, [04:50]

• Reflection on how others often want to help but Forrest proves he’s capable on his own.

3. Parenting Perspective & Life at Home

• [05:53] Alex shares a favorite story: at the ocean, Forrest enjoys letting the waves knock him down while strangers look on, worried. Alex reassures listeners:

  “My kid's completely fine. The looks on their faces always make me laugh.” — Alex, [06:01]

4. Disney Adventures & Accessibility

• [06:18] Guest Amber describes anxiety when Forrest’s eligibility for a ride is questioned. Relief and joy follow when staff confirm it’s safe:

  “We wanted this for him so, so badly...It was one of those just Disney magic moments. Kismet.” — Amber, [07:11]

• [07:34] Forrest enthusiastically recounts his favorite ride, Mickey & Minnie's Railway, describing the ride from his perspective and how much he enjoyed it.
• [08:10] Hosts and Forrest reflect on the thrill of repeat rides (especially Haunted Mansion) and facing fears:
  • Before entering the Haunted Mansion, Forrest gets nervous, leading to a meaningful moment about overcoming fear:

    “What's on the other side of fear? Freedom. And I absolutely loved that.” — Host referencing Alex, [08:30]

5. Creating Community & Camaraderie

• [08:55] David, a returning family member/volunteer, expresses how Forrest’s openness helped others:

  “This kid is special…he just green lights transparency and vulnerability with you.” — David, [08:58]

  • Forrest connects instantly with another child, Gunner, and bonds over shared experiences.
  • Forrest playfully recounts Jenga games against Darth Vader and Cinderella:

    “Darth Vader’s really good. Well, you would probably be scared of being—of playing me.” — Forrest, [09:55]

• [10:13] Humorous and heartwarming exchange as co-hosts “ship” Forrest and Cinderella.

6. Forrest as a Leader & Ambassador

• The host credits Forrest for sparking candid conversations about disabilities amongst the kids:

  “You were such a great ambassador...You were the one that really started that communication. And I think this trip is just a little bit different and a little more special this year because of what you did on it. And I want to thank you for that.” — Host, [10:15-10:42]

7. Special Moment: Alex’s Letter to Forrest

• [11:02] Upon Bert’s request, Alex reads an emotional letter to Forrest, reflecting on their time at Disney, the new friendships, and her pride in Forrest’s uniqueness and resilience:

  “You are a radical kid, and I know you get frustrated with the world sometimes, but I do believe you have the power to change it...With you, every moment is an adventure. Let’s promise to stay connected with the friends we made here...” — Alex, [11:02–12:33]

• The letter also acknowledges the importance of the Burt’s Big Adventure experience for families like theirs.

8. Closing Appreciation

• [12:33] Host and co-hosts celebrate Forrest and Alex, reaffirming their gratitude for their participation and leadership:

  “What an amazing addition to Burt’s Big Adventure. Thanks for being with us.” — Host, [12:33]

Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• "Don't underestimate this kid. He is magic." — Host, [01:45]
• "I threw the ball." — Forrest, explaining his adaptability in sports, [03:34]
• "There are no limitations with this kid…" — Host, [03:13]
• "What’s on the other side of fear? Freedom." — Alex, as quoted by the host, [08:30]
• "You are a radical kid, and I know you get frustrated with the world sometimes, but I do believe you have the power to change it...With you, every moment is an adventure." — Alex, letter to Forrest, [11:02–12:33]
• "Darth Vader’s really good. Well, you would probably be scared…of playing me." — Forrest, [09:55]

Timeline of Important Segments

| Time | Segment Description | |-----------|------------------------------------------------------| | 01:30 | Fundraising intro and Forrest’s warm welcome | | 02:29 | Alex describes Forrest’s condition and perspective | | 03:13 | Stories of Forrest’s resilience and fun | | 04:14 | Forrest’s swimming independence; empowerment | | 05:53 | At-home adventures and public perceptions | | 06:18 | Adventure at Disney rides and accessibility | | 07:34 | Forrest enthusiastically describes his favorite ride | | 08:10 | Facing fears and the “freedom” on the other side | | 08:58 | Forrest’s influence on the group and funny moments | | 10:15 | Forrest credited as a trip ambassador/leader | | 11:02 | Emotional letter from Alex to Forrest | | 12:33 | Hosts thank and celebrate Forrest and Alex |

Tone and Style

The episode flows with warmth, humor, and deep affection, blending light-hearted banter with touching moments of vulnerability. Forrest’s confidence, curiosity, and spirit are matched by the pride and support from his mother and the Bert Show team, who highlight both the challenges and the magic of living differently.

For those who haven’t listened:
This heartwarming episode celebrates childhood resilience, adventure, and the power of inclusion, making it a must-listen for anyone needing inspiration, perspective, or simply a smile.