“Parents, never give up. Doctors do the best they can, but they don't know everything. And do not underestimate God.” -Eileen Hornback

“Stay the course and fight, fight, fight. Don't give up.”  -Zack Hornback

On this week’s show is Eileen Hornback, the author of the International Best-Seller, Breathe and her son, Zack, Eileen’s inspiration behind the book. Fun fact! Eileen is also de de’s best friend while Eileen’s daughter, Logan starred as the female cover model for Two Degrees One Heart. 

Today, you will get to know more about Eileen and Zack, and why de de loves them so much. Eileen is a woman of faith and resilience. In 2005, Eileen experienced a parent’s worst nightmare when Zack got into a terrible car accident. Diagnosed with traumatic brain injury, his doctors said that Zack has little to no chance of survival. Follow their story as Eileen relates how she kept her faith through every second of their darkest moments, which is also the theme of her book. Learn real life lessons about being invested in God’s plan, not discounting a person’s faith in the healing process, being advocates for your children’s recovery, and guiding them to make good decisions. Most of the time, we are amazed by what a little prayer can do. Tune in and witness a living miracle with this mother and son duo!

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Highlights: 

03:59 A Mother’s Worst Nightmare

08:47 Breathe

13:28 The Power of Prayer

18:30 An Unexpected Gift

22:38 The Role Faith Plays

25:47 Never Give Up!

27:28 Stay the Course 

“It's okay to be different. It's okay to be unique. Stand apart from the crowd, you don't want to always fit in. If you have a disability, turn it into an ability. Use that to empower other people.” -Bria Byrd

Bria Byrd was born with visual impairment called Amblyopia. Amblyopia or lazy eye, is a condition where an abnormal development of the nerves between the brain and the retina causes vision problems in one eye. It usually begins in childhood and if left untreated, symptoms may worsen and lead to permanent vision loss. In this episode, Bria shares how it’s like to live with this disability as a teen with big dreams. As a Sophomore, pageant contestant, author, and volunteer for many organizations, Bria sure has a lot going on in her life. As exciting as it sounds, Bria also needs to overcome the challenges that come with them. Bria’s story proves that neither age nor disability can stop you from pursuing your dreams. Tune in as she shares tips on how to manage your disabilities, balance time, and reach your goals. Anyone can advocate and inspire others. Like Nike’s famous slogan says, “Just do it!” and you’ll find that it was not as scary or complicated as you thought it would be. 

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Highlights: 

01:54 You Are Unique

04:10 A Disability That Affects Children

10:03 Facts and Misconceptions About Pageantry

15:02 How to Balance Time 

19:12 Be Like Nike 

“It might seem difficult but you need to keep your head up because there's the end goal for you. Know what that goal is and keep pushing for it every single day no matter the setbacks.” -Savannah Dean Reeves 

Success starts with dreams. So now that you have set your heart on something, you’re off with a good start! You just need a little inspiration and courage to keep going. This week’s conversation will give you that boost you need! Savannah Dean Reeves loves music more than anything else. You may already be familiar with her as the pretty face from the cover of Stolen Roses. But did you know? Savannah also wrote the theme song for the book and even starred as Evergreen for the book’s music video. In this episode, Savannah shares her music journey and how she works to make her dreams come true. In addition to her music, Savannah is also busy preparing for college, volunteering, and doing charity work. Find out how she does them all despite her young age, and what parents can learn about supporting their children along the journey. 

Fear of failure and rejection have hindered many from realizing their dreams. But as Savannah says, you will get there if you “keep trying everyday.” Tune in and find out how you can get your music out on records and music platforms as Savannah shares helpful resources and tips! 

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Highlights: 

02:05 Living with a “CSI” Mom

05:12 Stolen Roses Behind the Scenes

11:48 On The Voice InstaBlinds 

15:21 Close Your Eyes

18:55 Songs and Teddy Bears

22:02 Keep Pushing Forward 

24:21 Be a Mom-nager

26:34 Get Your Music Out!