Rising Above with Becky Davidson

Rising Above Ministries

Rising Above with Becky Davidson is a place of encouragement, honesty, and hope for families navigating the unique joys and challenges of life with disability. Each episode offers heartfelt conversations, practical wisdom, and faith-filled insights to help you know you’re not alone on the journey. Becky shares stories from her own life as well as uplifting perspectives from guests who understand the road, equipping you with tools and inspiration to face each day with courage. Whether you’re seeking community, strength, or a fresh reminder of God’s faithfulness, this podcast invites you to rise above the struggles and discover joy in the midst of it all.

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#336
Tuesday · 39 min
He’s Just A Dude - With Josh and Bralin
He's Just a Dude | Rising Above Podcast In this exciting episode of the Rising Above with Becky Davidson Podcast, host Becky Davidson introduces a brand-new program called “He’s Just a Dude,” developed by Bralin Moss, one of Jon Alex’s caregivers and a member of the Rising Above team. Bralin and Jon Alex are taking this program into schools and youth groups to help students see the person beyond the disability. Through real-life stories, humor, and honest conversation, they’ll share how people with disabilities want the same things we all do—friendship, respect, kindness, and to be included. (Interested in “He’s Just a Dude” coming to your school, church, or workplace? Click this link to learn more! https://www.risingaboveministries.org/hes-just-a-dude) From time to time, Bralin will be taking over the podcast right here on Rising Above with Becky Davidson! He’ll be interviewing people with disabilities, along with their friends and caregivers, to hear their stories about friendship, connection, and how relationships grow through differences. This week, Bralin is joined by Josh Cremeans for a meaningful conversation about their experiences as caregivers to Jon Alex. They’ll share their stories, talk about their relationship with him, and how they see Jon Alex as “just a dude.” It’s a fun and heartfelt conversation about friendship, connection, and seeing the person beyond the disability. Becky shares how much she loves hearing the perspectives of Jon Alex’s caregivers and their heart for him. She shares how happy it makes her to know her son has such amazing young men in his life! Want to bring “He’s Just a Dude” to your school or youth group? Find the link in the show notes to learn more! Join us as we celebrate friendship, inclusion, and the amazing people who help us all rise above! ❤️ #RisingAbove #HesJustADude #DisabilityInclusion #Friendship #SpecialNeedsParenting #RisingAbovePodcast Our podcast sponsors help us continue to bring hope to the special-needs community around the world. To learn more about sponsoring the podcast click this link >> https://forms.gle/Zi2SWGwP29arNDAm9
#335
September 22 · 31 min
What Your Wife Needs from You
What Your Wife Needs from You | Rising Above Podcast In this episode of the Rising Above Podcast, host Becky Davidson shares a special talk she gave to a group of dads at Rising Above’s Base Camp in the fall of 2024, titled “What Your Wife Needs from You.” Becky reflects on her 26 years of marriage to her husband before his passing in 2017. Through the good moments, the challenges, and everything in between, their marriage grew stronger as they faced life together. As parents, especially when caring for children with disabilities, it can be easy to get so focused on taking care of everyone else that we forget to take care of our marriage. Sometimes the conversations we need most are the ones we never get around to having. In this heartfelt and practical talk, Becky encourages dads to think about what their wives need from them and reminds couples that they are on the same team. Whether you’re listening as a husband, a wife, or a couple, Becky hopes this conversation gives you a starting point, helps put words to something you’ve been feeling, or simply opens the door to a meaningful conversation with your spouse. Moms, send this episode to your husband and listen together if you can! Let’s jump in! ❤️ #RisingAbove #MarriageAndParenting #SpecialNeedsParenting #WhatYourWifeNeedsFromYou #RisingAbovePodcast To the dads raising children with disabilities, find community at Base Camp! Register here - https://www.risingaboveministries.org/base-camp
#334
September 15 · 35 min
The Hidden Reality of Growing Up in a Medical Household
Garrett Holt on growing up as Toby’s brother and learning patience in a special needs family Becky Davidson talks with Garrett Holt, a junior at Cedarville University studying IT management, about life as the brother of Toby Holt, who has spina bifida and significant medical needs. The conversation focuses on sibling dynamics, family rhythms, and how growing up in that environment shaped Garrett’s patience, perspective, and relationships. Garrett also shares how games, shared interests, and intentional conversation helped him build a stronger bond with Toby over time. Key topics Garrett’s current life in college - He is a junior at Cedarville University studying IT management because he wanted a people-focused path in the tech world. Family bonding through games - Board games, card games, video games, and sports have been a major part of the Holt family culture. What it was like being the second oldest - Garrett reflects on being in the middle of Connor, Toby, and Karis, and how that shaped his role in the family. Growing up with Toby’s medical needs - He remembers ambulances, hospital stays, surgeries, and the way those emergencies became part of the family’s normal. Homeschooling as a family adjustment - Garrett explains that homeschooling helped the family handle Toby’s frequent appointments and unpredictable medical schedule. Living with nurses in the home - He shares how having caregivers around the house affected privacy, comfort, and family dynamics. From sibling rivalry to intentional relationship - Garrett describes how his relationship with Toby evolved from butting heads to finding connection through shared interests like Star Wars, movies, and games. How Toby is often underestimated - He notes that people tend to focus on Toby’s physical limitations and miss his personality, curiosity, humor, and depth. What special needs siblinghood taught him socially - Garrett says he became less assumption-driven, more patient, and more aware that people’s situations are often invisible. Advice for younger siblings - His main advice is to be patient, ask questions, include the sibling more intentionally, and focus on who you’re with rather than just what you’re doing.
#333
September 8 · 34 min
Caris Holt on Being a Sibling to a Child with Special Needs
Caris Holt on Being a Sibling to a Child with Special Needs Becky Davidson talks with Caris Holt, daughter of Carrie Holt and sister of Toby, about what it means to grow up as a sibling to someone with disabilities and special needs. Caris shares how that shaped her family life, her faith, and her sense of identity, while also naming the grief, loneliness, and pressure that can come with the role.In this conversation, Becky and Caris discuss the hidden emotional load on siblings, the importance of being seen as an individual, and how counseling and faith have helped Caris process what she feels. Caris also shares the creative interests and church leadership that help define her beyond her family role. Key topics Karis introduces herself as the youngest of four, with three older brothers, and shares the creative things she loves: fiction writing, fantasy, drawing, piano, music, horseback riding, and faith. She talks about leading third grade girls at church and how their openness has taught her that there is no such thing as a dumb question. Karis describes growing up in a home where nurses and care support were often present, which reduced privacy and made her feel more independent at a young age. She shares how being Toby’s sister has brought unexpected gifts, including family closeness, resilience, prayer, grief shared together, and special experiences through a nonprofit called A Kid Again. Becky and Karis discuss the visibility of Toby’s disability and how easy it is for others to reduce him to his wheelchair instead of seeing his humor, kindness, and compassion. Karis opens up about the pressure she felt to stay quiet, blend into the background, and not take up too much attention because Toby needed so much care. She reflects on learning to take up space, name her needs, and accept that she is also a person whose needs matter. Karis explains that special needs impact the whole family, not just the child with the diagnosis, and says siblings need to be asked how they are doing too. She shares how her parents supported her by making room for her own interests, friendships, and rest away from the demands of home. Karis describes how family, cousins, and church relationships have helped Toby feel included and have given both siblings a sense of belonging. She talks about how she and Toby have grown closer over time, including deeper conversations and shared interests like Star Wars. Karis explains how faith, especially trusting God’s faithfulness through hard seasons, has given her purpose and a deep relationship with Jesus. She shares how counseling has helped her put words to her experiences, identify triggers, and process emotions in a healthy way. Karis encourages other siblings who feel guilt, anger, or frustration to remember they are not alone and that they can bring those feelings to Jesus for healing.
#332
September 1 · 30 min
Growing Up With Ricki Rose
In this heartfelt episode, Jordan shares her journey of growing up alongside her sister, Ricki Rose, who has special needs. She opens up about the joys, challenges, and unexpected lessons that have shaped her perspective on family, sibling relationships, caregiving, and faith. Jordan reflects on how her relationship with Ricki Rose has grown from early questions and uncertainty into a deep love and appreciation for her sister. From everyday family moments and shared adventures to difficult emotions and challenging circumstances, Jordan offers an honest look at what it means to be a sibling of someone with a disability. Most importantly, Jordan shares how Ricki Rose has strengthened her faith and helped her see the world through a more joyful and compassionate lens. Her story is an encouragement to siblings and families navigating life with special needs, reminding us that every person is a blessing and that difficult seasons can become opportunities for growth. In This Episode, We Talk About The unique dynamics of growing up with a sibling who has special needs How Ricki Rose has impacted Jordan’s perspective on life and relationships The joys and challenges that come with being a special needs sibling Learning patience, compassion, and empathy through family life How faith and prayer have shaped Jordan’s journey Navigating difficult feelings while still embracing a sibling with love The importance of intentional parenting and making every sibling feel seen and valued Encouragement for siblings and families beginning their own special needs journey Jordan’s hopes for the future and her desire to help others
#331
August 25 · 41 min
Polly Stokes on Caring for Hazel, Finding Peace, and Trusting God
Polly Stokes on Caring for Hazel, Finding Peace, and Trusting God In this episode, Becky Davidson talks with Polly Stokes about caring for her 17-month-old daughter, Hazel, who has profound medical complexity following bacterial meningitis at birth. Polly shares honestly about the realities of medical caregiving, the emotional and spiritual challenges of watching her child suffer, and learning to surrender control and trust God with Hazel’s life. She also shares how her marriage, church, friends, and community have carried her through the hardest days. Through it all, Hazel’s joyful spirit—lovingly nicknamed “Happy Hazel”—has reminded Polly of the beauty and joy that can still be found in difficult seasons. Polly offers encouragement to other exhausted moms: read Scripture, ask the hard questions, stop comparing your motherhood to others, and make space for rest. Want to learn more about how you can help sponsor an episode? Click here.https://forms.gle/Zi2SWGwP29arNDAm9
#330
August 18 · 48 min
Finding Joy in the Hard: Friendship and Motherhood Among Special Needs Moms- Part 2
Finding Joy in the Hard: Friendship and Motherhood Among Special Needs Moms- Part 2 In part two of this heartfelt conversation, Becky Davidson sits down with her friends Lisa Bryan, Tracey Martin, and Cynthia Barkley to talk honestly—and often hilariously—about the realities of raising sons with special needs. From grief and caregiving to sensory challenges and some unforgettable poop stories, they share the moments that are both incredibly hard and unexpectedly joyful. Through laughter, tears, and plenty of “you just had to be there” moments, they talk about how friendship can sustain you when life feels overwhelming. There’s something powerful about being with people who truly get it—people who understand the hard days without explanation, laugh with you when things get ridiculous, and remind you that even in the middle of the mess, there is still joy. This two-part conversation is a reminder of the gift of friendship, the importance of perspective, and why having “your people” can make all the difference. Our mission is to uplift the extraordinary voices in the special-needs community. Have a story to share? Fill out this form to be considered for the podcast! https://forms.gle/Zi2SWGwP29arNDAm9 If you’d like to learn more about how you can partner to make this podcast possible, https://forms.gle/Zi2SWGwP29arNDAm9
#329
August 11 · 49 min
Finding Joy in the Hard: Friendship and Motherhood Among Special Needs Moms- Part 1
Finding Joy in the Hard: Friendship and Motherhood Among Special Needs Moms- Part 1 In this heartfelt and hilarious episode, a group of lifelong friends opens up about the joys, challenges, and unexpected moments that come with raising sons with special needs. Through laughter, vulnerability, and shared experiences, they explore what it means to navigate motherhood as their boys grow into young men with diagnoses including autism, ADHD, fragile X, and other unique needs. The conversation highlights the power of friendship and community as these moms reflect on the moments that tested them — from public meltdowns and sensory challenges to “poop patrol,” bathroom adventures, and the everyday surprises that come with caregiving. They share how humor has become a survival skill, helping them find light in difficult seasons and celebrate the small victories that others may never see. The friends also discuss practical strategies that have helped their families thrive, including visual schedules, social stories, sensory regulation techniques, and carefully preparing for new environments. Beyond strategies, they emphasize something even more important: finding “your people” — the community of support that understands the journey and walks alongside you. Throughout the episode, they reflect on faith, gratitude, and the moments when they catch glimpses of their children’s joy and individuality. Their friendship has provided emotional strength, encouragement, and a reminder that no mom should have to navigate this path alone. Filled with funny stories, honest conversations, and heartfelt reflections, this episode celebrates the beauty found in the hard moments. Whether you are a special needs parent, a caregiver, or someone supporting a family on this journey, this conversation is a reminder that connection, laughter, and love can carry us through even the most challenging seasons. Our mission is to uplift the extraordinary voices in the special-needs community. Have a story to share? Fill out this form to be considered for the podcast! https://forms.gle/Zi2SWGwP29arNDAm9
#328
August 4 · 47 min
Autism Diagnosis, Faith, and Parenting: Cynthia Barkley's Story
What if your hardest parenting season is also part of God's greater purpose? Raising a child with special needs can feel lonely, exhausting, and uncertain. In this heartfelt episode, Cynthia Barkley shares her family's journey through a premature birth, an autism diagnosis, and years of advocacy, therapy, and unwavering faith. Her story is a powerful reminder that even in life's most difficult moments, God is present, working through every challenge. Cynthia opens up about receiving her son Josiah's autism diagnosis, processing grief, and learning to trust God's plan while navigating the complexities of autism, ADHD, sensory processing disorder, and other developmental challenges. She also shares practical advice for finding resources, building a support system, advocating for your child, and maintaining hope through every season—from early intervention to adulthood. Whether you're a parent, caregiver, educator, or someone supporting a family with special needs, this conversation offers encouragement, practical wisdom, and the reassurance that you are never alone. In This Episode Cynthia's journey through a premature birth and autism diagnosis Processing grief while holding onto faith Finding resources and building a strong support network Advocating for therapies, services, and educational needs Navigating multiple diagnoses, including ADHD and sensory processing disorder Homeschooling and supporting lifelong learning Helping siblings navigate life with a special needs family member Transitioning into adulthood after high school Why it's never too late for growth, independence, and new opportunities The role of prayer, community, and perseverance in everyday life Encouragement for parents who feel overwhelmed or isolated Key Takeaways You don't have to walk this journey alone. Advocacy is a marathon, not a sprint. Give yourself grace during difficult seasons. Community and friendship make a tremendous difference. Faith provides strength when answers are hard to find. Every child has unique gifts and God-given purpose. Progress may look different than expected, but every milestone matters. Enjoyed This Episode? If this conversation encouraged you, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with another parent or caregiver who could use a reminder that hope is always possible—even on the hardest days. Sponsor The Rising Above with Becky Davidson Podcast, Make A Difference. https://forms.gle/Zi2SWGwP29arNDAm9
#327
July 28 · 50 min
Herbs, Healing & Hope: A Conversation with Registered Herbalist Sherri Stickler
Episode Summary This week, we're doing something a little different, and I'm so excited to welcome my friend, Sherri Stickler, to the podcast! If you've ever been curious about herbal medicine or wondered how natural remedies can support your family's health, this conversation is for you. Sherri is a Registered Herbalist with the American Herbalists Guild and the founder of Synergy Herbal Works. After spending years in respiratory and patient care within conventional medicine, she felt called to pursue herbal medicine—a path where science, nature, and faith come together to support the body's God-designed ability to heal. In this episode, we explore practical ways herbs can support children's health, emotional well-being, better sleep, hormonal balance, immune health, and everyday wellness. Sherri shares her knowledge with both wisdom and encouragement, making this conversation approachable whether you're completely new to herbal remedies or already incorporating them into your lifestyle. Grab a notebook because this episode is packed with practical tips, thoughtful insights, and simple ways to begin exploring herbal wellness with confidence. Disclaimer: This episode is intended for educational and informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your healthcare provider before making changes to your healthcare routine. Resource Links: Rosemary Gladstar's Medicinal Herbs: A Beginner's Guide: 33 Healing Herbs to Know, Grow, and Use: Gladstar, Rosemary: 9781612120058: Amazon.com: Books Naturally Healthy Babies and Children: A Commonsense Guide to Herbal Remedies, Nutrition, and Health: Aviva Jill Romm, William Sears: 9781587611926: Amazon.com: Books The Nourishing Traditions Book of Baby & Child Care: Morell, Sally Fallon, Cowan, Thomas S.: 0884331252815: Amazon.com: Books National Center for Integrative and Complementary Health https://www.nccih.nih.gov/
#326
July 21 · 44 min
Finding Blessings and Building Resilience in the Journey of a Special Needs Parent
Finding Blessings and Building Resilience in the Journey of a Special Needs Parent In this heartfelt episode, Becky Davidson welcomes Joe and Cindi Ferrini, authors of The Special Needs Parent: A Guide to the Life You Never Expected, to share the remarkable story of their 45-year journey raising their son, Joey, who has cerebral palsy and an intellectual disability. Through honest conversations, practical wisdom, and unwavering faith, Joe and Cindi offer encouragement to parents and caregivers navigating the unexpected realities of raising a child with special needs. Together, they reflect on the emotions surrounding an early diagnosis, the ongoing process of grieving unmet expectations, and the unexpected blessings that have emerged throughout Joey's life. They discuss the importance of building a strong support system, maintaining healthy family relationships, responding with grace to social challenges, and finding hope through faith and community. The conversation also explores the inspiration behind their new book, which provides practical guidance on topics such as finances, sibling relationships, caregiving, emotional resilience, and planning for the future. Above all, Joe and Cindi remind listeners that while the journey may not look as they once imagined, it can still be filled with purpose, joy, growth, and countless moments of unexpected blessing. Whether you're a parent of a child with special needs, a caregiver, or someone seeking encouragement through life's unexpected challenges, this episode offers compassionate insight, practical advice, and a powerful message of hope, endurance, and resilience. Related Resources: https://www.amazon.com/Special-Needs-Parent-Guide-Expected/dp/0802437702/ref=sr_1_3?crid=3FP52U1DGRBF3&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.2eJ_UP4a7ad4AHcpQM1P3bIvOizQY0TXQ2n6ZfxnGNnGjHj071QN20LucGBJIEps.CxWJEx2pNCZ626Zzm2O0JLu5GiljcErqrGtrXleuZ60&dib_tag=se&keywords=joe+and+cindi+ferrini&qid=1784135759&sprefix=Joe+and+Cindi%2Caps%2C171&sr=8-3 https://autismfaithnetwork.com/ Autism Faith Network
#325
July 14 · 39 min
Transforming Love and Faith Through Hardship: Tegan's Journey with Special Needs Motherhood
Tegan is a former Canadian resident and full-time engineer who now calls Pittsburgh home, where she's a full-time mom of three, always chasing sunshine and finding adventure in everyday family life. Known in the Rare and Mighty (RAM) community for her honest, "no sugarcoating" approach and her thoughtful exploration of special needs theology, Tegan shares the life-changing journey that began when her middle daughter, Eloise, was diagnosed with the rare genetic condition FOXG1 syndrome at just ten months old. In this deeply moving conversation, Tegan opens up about navigating the heartbreak of a late miscarriage, the shock of an unexpected diagnosis, and the difficult questions that challenged her faith. She reflects on how prayer, community, and God's unwavering presence reshaped her understanding of suffering, goodness, and unconditional love. Together, we explore the difference between grieving the future you imagined and finding joy in the life you have, the daily invitation to sacrificial love through caregiving, and how raising a child with special needs has transformed Tegan's relationship with God. She also shares the beautiful story behind naming her youngest son, Boaz, and what redemption has looked like for her family. Whether you're walking through hardship, caring for a loved one with disabilities, or wrestling with faith in difficult seasons, Tegan's honesty, wisdom, and hope will encourage you to discover God's love in unexpected places.
#324
July 7 · 47 min
Embracing Mission, Adoption, and Culture in Belize with Tim Zittle
Tim and Jen’s 27-year marriage and their family’s adoption journey, including three special needs adoptions from China, as well as the call that led them to Belize and the realities of adapting to a new culture as a missionary family. Tim shares what it has looked like to raise children with special needs while navigating healthcare, education, and ministry overseas, and he explains the story behind Three D Friends and its mission to support special needs families in Belize. The conversation also highlights how events like Night to Shine are creating inclusion and dignity for individuals with disabilities, while also encouraging fathers and men in Belize to become more engaged in family life and faith leadership. Tim reflects on Joshua’s rare diagnosis and how God used a difficult season to bring clarity, provision, and deeper trust, while emphasizing the importance of obedience, resilience, and cultural understanding in long-term missions work. He also shares the future vision for camps, therapy centers, and expanded support for children with special needs and their families.
#323
June 30 · 43 min
Embracing Resilience: A Single Mom’s Journey with a Special Needs Child
Tamecka shares her journey as a single mother raising a son with Down syndrome and autism, reflecting on the challenges of diagnosis, healthcare demands, and balancing work and caregiving alone. She highlights how faith and prayer helped her stay grounded through difficult moments. The episode emphasizes the importance of community support, advocacy for children with disabilities, and greater workplace understanding for single parents. Despite the hardships, Tamecka celebrates her son’s joyful spirit, sharing how his presence has brought purpose, resilience, and hope into her life.
#322
June 23 · 42 min
Finding Joy in the Hard Stuff with Meredith Cornish: Trusting God While Raising a Family of 15
In this uplifting episode, Becky sits down with Meredith Cornish, a mom of 15, to talk about faith, family, and finding joy in the midst of life's challenges. Meredith shares her journey of raising children with disabilities, growing her family through adoption, and trusting God's goodness through every season. Together, they discuss intentional parenting, creating peace in a busy home, supporting children with special needs, and the importance of community, prayer, and resilience. Meredith also shares insights from her book, Even in the Hard Stuff, encouraging listeners to find hope, gratitude, and God's grace even in difficult circumstances. This conversation is filled with practical wisdom, heartfelt encouragement, and a powerful reminder that joy can be found even in the hard stuff.
#321
June 16 · 41 min
Making Prom Possible: Will Spears and the Power of Inclusion
In this episode, we sit down with Will Spears, a high school senior with a heart for serving others. Will shares his personal story and explains why he is so passionate about supporting the special needs community. He talks about his efforts to raise funds and help students from Livingston Academy’s Special Education Department attend the Special Needs Prom hosted by Rising Above Ministries. Through his leadership, compassion, and dedication, Will is making a meaningful impact in the lives of others. Join us as we hear about the experiences that have inspired him and the difference one young person can make in a community.
#320
June 9 · 45 min
Joining the Mission: Bralin Moss on Serving Families with Disabilities
On this week's episode of Rising Above with Becky Davidson, Becky sits down with Bralin Moss, the newest member of the Rising Above team, to discuss his journey, his passion for the disability community, and his new role as Ministry Advancement Associate. A recent graduate of Tennessee Tech University, Bralin shares his heart for serving families living with disabilities and his excitement about joining the mission of Rising Above. He talks about the importance of building relationships and creating opportunities for businesses and individuals to partner with the ministry in bringing hope, encouragement, and support to special needs families. Becky and Bralin also discuss what lies ahead as he helps expand the reach of Rising Above through community partnerships and ministry growth. If you've ever wondered how you or your business can make a meaningful impact in the lives of families navigating disability, this conversation offers a great introduction to the mission and vision behind the movement. Join Becky and Bralin for this inspiring conversation as we officially welcome him to the Rising Above team and look ahead to all that's to come.
#319
June 2 · 38 min
Parenting with Purpose: A Dad's Perspective on Navigating Special Needs
In this heartfelt episode, Becky Davidson talks with a father about the realities of raising children with special needs while balancing faith, family, and ministry. He shares his family’s journey following his daughter’s rare genetic diagnosis and the challenges and blessings that came with caring for a family member with severe autism. Through these experiences, he reflects on how their lives, priorities, and faith were deeply transformed. The conversation explores the emotional impact of a diagnosis, the importance of community and church support, and the lessons learned through patience, perseverance, and trusting God during difficult seasons. Listeners will also hear practical encouragement for maintaining a strong marriage, seeking counseling, and building supportive relationships with other parents and caregivers. Filled with honesty and hope, this episode offers encouragement to fathers and families navigating the special needs journey, reminding them they are not alone and that faith and community can provide strength in even the hardest moments.
#318
May 26 · 47 min
Embracing the Journey of Parenting Special Needs Children: A Dad's Perspective- Brandon Jones
Brandon Jones, father to Rickie Rose, joins this deeply moving episode to share the realities, challenges, and unexpected blessings of raising a child with special needs. From the life-changing adoption journey from China to navigating the emotional weight of uncertainty and grief, Brandon offers an honest look at how faith, marriage, and community have sustained his family through every season. Throughout the conversation, Brandon reflects on the unique role fathers play in leading with strength while processing pain, the importance of partnership between husband and wife, and how intentional fatherhood shapes the emotional and spiritual health of the entire family. He also shares how recognizing God’s presence in everyday moments has transformed hardship into purpose and perseverance. This episode is filled with encouragement for parents—especially dads—who may feel overwhelmed by the challenges of special needs parenting. Brandon reminds listeners that hope can coexist with hardship, resilient families are built through love and shared responsibility, and there is lasting peace found in faith and eternal perspective.
#317
May 19 · 50 min
What Special-needs Dads are Dealing With… But Probably Won’t Tell You
If you’ve ever wondered what your husband might be feeling—but not saying—this episode is for you. Since so many of our listeners are special needs moms carrying the emotional and practical load of daily life, Becky Davidson invited Steve Chatman to help shed some light on what’s often going on in the minds and hearts of special needs dads. Together, they explore the emotions many dads struggle to express: feeling overwhelmed, disconnected, lonely, inadequate, or even unsure of how to communicate what they need. Steve shares honest insight into why dads sometimes pull back emotionally and offers practical ways moms can better understand and support their husbands without adding more pressure to an already full plate. This conversation is real, encouraging, and filled with relatable moments that will make you laugh, think, and maybe even spark some meaningful conversations at home. If you’ve ever felt like you and your spouse are missing each other in the middle of the special needs journey, this episode offers a compassionate look into how to reconnect, strengthen your marriage, and remember you’re on the same team.

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