
Spending time with acclaimed author Vickie Rubin is good for the soul.
Wynne and I had the pleasure recently of sitting down with Vickie to learn about her book, “Raising Jess – a Story of Hope” and came away with a renewed sense of purpose about the power of family, motherhood and more.

Vickie is an advocate at heart. An educator and a champion for families facing the challenges of a child with a rare genetic disorder, 1q43-44 microdeletion syndrome. Jessica’s story, as told by Vickie, is courageous and powerful. Written as though Vickie is sitting with you, over a cup of tea.
Vickie writes:
“Raising our first child, Jessica, came with challenges we never saw coming. Born with significant disabilities and a rare diagnosis, her story became one of resilience, love, and unexpected joy. This book shares our journey—from learning to navigate her needs, deciding to grow our family, facing marriage struggles, and embracing the grandparent role—to raising Jessica inclusively in a community that rallied around her.”
Whether she’s receiving accolades from us, prestigious writing recognition or penning an essay for Newsweek magazine, Vickie’s focus is clear. Helping others through love and education. Compassion and information.
Wynne and I learned so much from Vickie and we believe you’ll be inspired by her humility, insight and love. Three things that author Vickie Rubin exudes.
Join us, won’t you?
Vicki and Wynne 😊
On a programming note – this is the last podcast for 2024. Our next episode featuring the amazing Beth (i didn’t have my glasses on… blog) will drop on Jan 10th, 2025.
Search (and subscribe!) for Sharing the Heart of the Matter on Apple, Amazon, Spotify or Pocket Casts OR Listen to it from your computer on Anchor: Episode 97: Raising Jess with Vickie Rubin
AND subscribe to our YouTube channel to see a video clip of each story: @SharingtheHeartoftheMatter.
Links for this Episode:
Vickie Rubin | Author & Advocate | Special Needs Parenting
Thankful for Superhero Healthcare Folks: Bones, Scopes & Hopes
Newsweek Article: Mom’s Diagnosis Was Crushing Enough, Then She Gave Me an Ominous Warning
From the hosts:
Vicki’s book about resilience and love: Surviving Sue; Blog: https://victoriaponders.com/
Wynne’s book about her beloved father: Finding My Father’s Faith; Blog: https://wynneleon.com/
Oh what an inspiring story of hope. Vicki and Jess give us all a model to follow. Get back up and keep moving. The same with you podcasting experts, Vicki. It’s hard to keep up with Wynne and you … so many interesting stories. Glad you’re giving yourself some time off!!! Great stuff.
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Thanks so much, Brian. You’re right — Vickie and Jess…and their whole family. A story worth learning about. We were so grateful to have Vickie join us. Thanks for tuning in…you’re the best! 🥰
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vickie is such an example to all of us and what a gift to Jessica
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Oh…yes, yes! Thank you, Beth. It was a delight to visit with…and learn from Vickie! Appreciate you for tuning in! 🥰
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Thank you, Beth! I appreciate your comment ❤️
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Great episode; you guys have earned yourselves a much-needed break. Can’t wait to listen/chat with you in 2025!
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Likewise!!! Thank you so much, Mark. Vickie is a terrific mom, advocate, writer – for sure. 🥰
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It was a delight to listen to Vickie Rubin share her story. She’s natural, informative, and a fabulous cheerleader. Her desire to learn everything about her special needs child reveals her extraordinary maternal instincts to help her. When Vickie helped other mothers who did likewise, she referred to it as the “ripple effect of advocacy.” I love that! Great interview. 🙂
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Thank you so much, Nancy. Wynne and I are so grateful for all the support. Your comments always make us smile and I know your good words and recognition of Vickie’s work will delight her. Appreciate you! Big hugs. 🥰
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Thank you, Nancy!! I appreciate your comments and insight! 💕
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Your description of her story is so inspiring. I can’t wait to listen.
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Thank you! We really appreciate your support, Elizabeth. Thank you for tuning in to learn about Vickie, Jess and Vickie’s big heart…wonderful work. And her book! 🥰
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😊
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Love this conversation with Vickie. She is such a testament to openness, curiosity, willingness to help others. So good!!
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Yes, yes, yes. Aren’t we lucky? That we get to chat with so many inspirational folks? Vickie’s book is a gem…thank you, Wynne! 🥰
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Thank you, Wynne! It was a pleasure chatting with you and Vicki! 💕
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Thanks for sharing another emotional and heart-warming story!
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Sounds like another wonderful episode from you guys. Cheers on wrapping up 2024 with many episodes that spread positivity! 🌞
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Thank you so much, Dave, for tuning in and for being a fabulous guest yourself! 🥰
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What a heartwarming conversation, and one that is full of hope. Thank you to Vickie Ruben for sharing her story about Jess that inspires all of us. Vicki and Wynne, you deserve a break, and I look forward to more inspiring podcasts in the new year. ❤️
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Thank you, Lauren! You are right about Vickie—it was such an honor to spend time with her and celebrate her beautiful book about Jess. Xo to you! 🥰
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You’re welcome, Vicki! What a loving mom she is! If only all moms (and dads) were as loving. I also meant to thank you again for inviting me to be a guest this year. It was an honor, and I look forward to listening to more wonderful podcasts with you and Wynne in 2025! Hugs! 🥰
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Oh my goodness. Yes — if only indeed. And you’re so sweet to offer thanks to us. It was entirely our pleasure, Lauren! Xo! 🥰
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Thank you, Lauren!!! 💕
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I love that the three of you finally got together for such a heartwarming and inspiring conversation.
I’ve known Vickie for a while now and your conversation revealed new layers to her story for me. I love the passage about Rabbi Kushner and more specifically about how it helps reframe the adversity that we face in our lives and how God gives us the tools and resources to navigate our circumstances. What a powerful way to look at the hardships we get in life, no matter how seemingly unfair they feel.
And I love that Vickie continues to learn and to seek learning. Trauma writing sounds fascinating. And healing.
Great way to end your 2024 podcasting season!
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Thank you, Ab! I love that you picked up on Vickie being such a great example of a life-long learner — agree! She has so much to offer and never stops thinking about how she can help others, enhance her own knowledge. Appreciate you for alllllll of your support! xo! 🥰
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Thank you, My friend!!!!
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