NICU Today: A podcast by Today is a Good Day Today is a Good Day

In this episode, we're honored to have Crystal Zukosky, a dedicated mother and aspiring family attorney, as our special guest. Crystal, a mom of two boys aged 18 and 2.5, brings a unique background in hotel restaurant management and culinary arts. Currently pursuing a Law and Society degree at Penn State University online, Crystal is actively involved in advocating for changes in Pennsylvania law to allow parents to be paid caregivers for their minor medically complex children.
Join us as we chat with Crystal about:
Crystal's family dynamics and her journey as a mom of two boysHer awareness of the NICU before her experience with her son, WillThe initial days in the NICU and how she coped with the challengesNavigating the emotional rollercoaster of the NICU journeyCrystal's advocacy efforts for her son and the support she receivedPractical strategies for keeping track of notes and reports from medical professionalsWill's extended NICU journey, including the surgery for a tracheostomy and the transition homeValuable advice for parents facing a similar journey in the NICUCrystal's involvement in advocating for legislative changes and the bill she's working to passAn update on how Will is doing today
We're delighted to welcome Crystal Zukosky to share her inspiring story and insights into the NICU experience and the journey of caring for a medically complex child.

In today's episode, we're thrilled to have Ashlee Adams, a licensed clinical social worker passionate about supporting infants and their parents, as our special guest. Ashlee's journey includes a master’s degree in social work from the University of Pittsburgh, with specializations in direct practice and integrated health. With experience in community, hospital, and private practice settings in Pittsburgh, Philadelphia, and New York City, Ashlee currently focuses on postpartum mental health and parenting in her private practice.
Join us for an insightful conversation with Ashlee as she shares:
 Ashlee's background and her deep-rooted passion for working with infants and their familiesIdentifying the most significant challenges parents face in their journeyPractical advice for NICU parents feeling isolated in the midst of various struggles, from sleep deprivation to feeding issuesExploring the gaps in care for parents during and after the NICU experienceNavigating relationships in the face of adversity, drawing from personal experiencesAddressing the common feelings of isolation and inadequacy in parents and providing supportExamining the challenges faced by both moms and dads in the NICU journeyAshlee's key piece of advice for parents navigating the NICU experience
Tune in for an honest and informative discussion with Ashlee Adams as we delve into the challenges and support systems for parents in the NICU journey.

In today's episode, we're pleased to have Tracy Warren, co-founder and CEO of Astarte Medical, as our special guest. Tracy's extensive experience as a healthcare venture investor and her commitment to women's and children's health make her a valuable voice in the industry.
Join us as Tracy shares insights into her background and how her focus on nutrition developed, particularly in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). In this conversation:
Tracy sheds light on the often-overlooked topic of nutrition for babies in the NICUWe discuss the different types of nutrition crucial for the growth of premature infantsExplore the important questions NICU families should ask regarding their baby's nutritionUnderstand how families can track their baby's progress and ensure they are on the right developmental pathLearn about the collaborative efforts of the medical team in shaping a baby's nutrition in the NICUTracy provides practical recommendations for families actively participating in their baby's nutritional journey
Tune in for an informative chat with Tracy Warren, where we break down the complexities of neonatal nutrition in the first 1000 days of life.

In this episode, we are honored to welcome our special guest, Quinn Forster, who, along with her husband, both come from large families and always dreamt of building a big family of their own. With three children and seven years of marriage, their journey to parenthood has been nothing short of remarkable, brimming with unexpected twists and turns. Quinn is here to share her family's incredible story, which includes multiple stays in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU).
On today's episode:
Quinn shares her family's extraordinary journey to parenthoodQuinn opens up about the stark differences between their first NICU experience and their third stayWhen reflecting on her family's NICU journey, Quinn imparts invaluable advice for other families going through similar challengesQuinn shares her insights into how she learned to ask the right questions, empowering her and her family throughout their NICU experiencesDiscover Quinn's recommendations for other families on how to cultivate a strong and supportive relationship with the medical teamQuinn sheds light on the practical aspects, explaining where she and her family kept track of crucial questions, reports, and updates from the medical teamQuinn shares an update on how her beloved little ones are doing today
Join us for a touching and insightful conversation as we dive into Quinn's family journey through the NICU and the valuable lessons and experiences they've gathered along the way.

In this episode, we are thrilled to introduce our special guest, Roxy Romeo, a radio veteran with a nationwide presence, whose warm and relatable personality has won her the hearts of listeners across 63 markets, including Miami, Houston, Atlanta, and Detroit. Despite her national success, Roxy remains the friend you've always wanted to have. Born and raised in Miami, she kickstarted her radio career with a Sunday morning 6 am shift. Today, she's a prominent figure in Philadelphia, co-hosting the Rise + Grind Morning Show on Power 99.
Roxy's connection with Today is a Good Day stems from a personal journey through the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). In this episode, she graciously shares her family's experiences and emotions during their path to starting a family, including the challenges and triumphs they faced along the way.
On today’s episode:
Roxy shares her journey with starting a familyRoxy opens up about the feelings and emotions she felt when her sweet miracle ended up in the NICURoxy discusses the steps she took to become a part of her daughters care team and build a good relationship with the medical teamRoxy shares how she found a balance between home and the NICURoxy talks about her life Post-NICU with appointments, early intervention, and seeing specialistsRoxy opens about the guilt she faced and working through it today Roxy shares how she transitioned back to work and what that looked like for herRoxy shares a beautiful update about her daughter today

In this episode, I’m excited to introduce our extraordinary guest, Adam Wood. With a captivating journey that's both inspiring and impactful, Adam brings his unique perspective as a retired U.S. Army veteran, a devoted NICU Dad, and a published author who's authored three heartwarming children's books centered around prematurity and the NICU. Adam's story is a testament to the resilience and strength of fathers in the NICU, and we can't wait to share it with you.
Adam's journey into fatherhood and the NICU is a story of determination, hope, and love. Join us as he shares the heartwarming tale of his family's path to parenthood, filled with trials and triumphs.
On today’s episode:
Adam's personal journey to starting a family, a journey that's bound to resonate with many.A deep dive into Adam's NICU experience, painting a vivid picture of the unique challenges and emotional moments he encountered.The biggest struggle he faced during his NICU journey and how he navigated through it, offering invaluable insights for others.Advice from Adam for fathers who are just embarking on their NICU journey, gleaned from his own experiences.Reflections on the lessons learned, as Adam shares what he knows now that he wishes he had known back then.Insights into why Adam decided to focus on the Dad's experience and the impact he's making through "Our Preemie Adventures."A look at his book series and how these heartwarming stories have provided support and hope to families navigating NICU life.Details on where you can find Adam's books, in case you're seeking a source of inspiration during your NICU journey.An update on how Adam's son is doing today, a story that's bound to warm your heart.
Adam's dedication to supporting families, especially NICU Dads, shines through in his work and public speaking. His efforts to shed light on the unique challenges that men face during and after the NICU journey are truly commendable.