Kids & FamilyEducationSelf-ImprovementReligion & SpiritualityChristianity

This Unexpected Life

Carrie M Holt

Welcome to This Unexpected Life, a podcast designed to equip and encourage parents and caregivers of children with disabilities so they can embrace their journey with hope, faith, and resilience.

With over twenty years of parenting experience, Carrie M Holt is a story-telling companion for caregiving mothers, exploring the hope and healing found in Jesus Christ—one story at a time.

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Avg 42 min
English

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S3 · E60
Tuesday · 44 min
When Caring for Yourself Feels Impossible: Grace, Nourishment, and Freedom for the Caregiver with Brandice Lardner
What if caring for yourself didn't mean adding one more thing to your already-full life? As we close out our month with the theme of Caring for the Caregiver, Brandice Lardner joins me for an honest conversation about food, stress, self-care, grace, and what it means to care for the whole person—body, mind, and spirit. Brandice is the founder of Grace Filled Plate and the author of the book, Fully Nourished. After years of believing her struggle with food and body image was simply a lack of discipline, God began showing her that the deeper issues involved anxiety, control, shame, and a longing to find her worth and value in Him. Her journey taught her that transformation doesn't come through another harsh plan or more self-condemnation, but through God's grace and learning to bring our struggles into His presence. As caregivers, we can tend to run to many things such as food, phones, control, spending, or anything else that might bring comfort, relief, or distraction. These might be some of the things we feel we deserve after a long day. Brandice helps us look beneath those patterns with curiosity rather than judgment and consider what we’re actually longing for. In this episode, we discuss: What realistic nourishment can look like when there is little margin. Why self-care shouldn't become another burden. How to release the all-or-nothing thinking. Simple ways we can care for ourselves, including asking for help. Most importantly, Brandice reminds us that we don't have to clean ourselves up before we invite Jesus into the places where we're struggling. We can invite Jesus into our most unlovely moments. Because being fully nourished is about more than what we eat. It's about caring for the whole person—physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual—and allowing God's grace to meet us in all of it. If you've been putting yourself last, struggling with food or another coping mechanism, or simply wondering how you're supposed to care for yourself when there is no margin, this conversation is for you. Eps. 60; September 22, 2026 Resources: Brandice Lardner’s Website Brandice on Instagram & Facebook Fully Nourished If you enjoyed the show, leave a 5-star review! The Podcast is on YouTube Check out my new website Click here if you want to be a guest on the show Carrie’s Facebook or Instagram Find me on Substack My book: The Other Side of Special *This podcast features honest conversations with special needs parents and faith-filled guests. While I deeply value the stories and insights shared, the views and opinions expressed may not always reflect my own. Any resources listed are shared for reference, not necessarily a personal recommendation. I invite you to listen with spiritual discernment and ask the Holy Spirit to guide you in what you hold onto and set aside.
- Transcript
S3 · E59
September 15 · 41 min
When Caregiving Changes Your Marriage: Building Connection, Repairing Conflict, and Caring For One Another with Angela Vinokur
Marriage can be challenging in any season of life—but when you're raising a child with disabilities or special needs, the demands of caregiving can put extraordinary pressure on your relationship. In this episode of This Unexpected Life, Carrie sits down with licensed professional clinical counselor Angela Vinokur, who specializes in working with couples and families, including connection, communication, and relationship repair. Angela shares part of her own unexpected story of betrayal, divorce, healing, and how God ultimately used those experiences to lead her into counseling and marriage work. Together, Carrie and Angela talk honestly about what happens when marriage gets pushed to the bottom of the priority list because a child's needs are so demanding. Angela shares practical ways couples can create “rituals for connection,” even when traditional date nights aren't possible. You'll also hear about: Why healthy marriages require skills we aren't necessarily taught How caregiving can lead couples toward resentment, distance, and functioning more like roommates The importance of fairness and shared responsibility in a caregiving marriage What co-regulation looks like between spouses What marital repair really means—and why couples need to learn how to repair after conflict Why couples shouldn't wait until they're in crisis to seek counseling And how spouses can remember that they are on the same team Angela leaves caregivers with an important reminder: you are seen, you are not alone, and your marriage is worth caring for—even in the middle of an incredibly demanding season. Eps. 59; September 14, 2026 Resources: Angela’s Website If you enjoyed the show, leave a 5-star review! The Podcast is on YouTube Check out my new website Click here if you want to be a guest on the show Carrie’s Facebook or Instagram Find me on Substack My book: The Other Side of Special *This podcast features honest conversations with special needs parents and faith-filled guests. While I deeply value the stories and insights shared, the views and opinions expressed may not always reflect my own. Any resources listed are shared for reference, not necessarily a personal recommendation. I invite you to listen with spiritual discernment and ask the Holy Spirit to guide you in what you hold onto and set aside.
- Transcript
S3 · E58
September 8 · 51 min
When Caregiving Takes a Toll: Caring for Your Nervous System and Your Soul with Leslie Hansen
Have you been listening to the podcast for a while? Please leave a review! Caregiving can leave you living in a constant state of stress, always on alert and feeling like you have to hold everything together. But what happens to your brain, body, emotions, and faith when that stress becomes chronic? In this episode of This Unexpected Life, Carrie talks with Leslie Hansen, a licensed professional clinical counselor who brings both professional expertise and personal experience to the caregiving conversation. Leslie shares the sacred—and incredibly difficult—season of caring for her mom during the final weeks of her life and how God met her with strength, community, and grace when she could no longer carry it all herself. Together, Carrie and Leslie explore: Recognizing the difference between fatigue and depletion. Practical ways to regulate your nervous system in the middle of a demanding day. EMDR for helping you process traumatic experiences. Understanding Internal Family Systems What self-care really looks like If you're a caregiver who feels exhausted, overwhelmed, guilty for needing help, or stuck in survival mode, this episode is a reminder that you were never meant to carry it all alone—and you don't have to stay stuck. There is hope, healing, and grace for you, too. Eps. 58; September 8, 2026 Resources: Mental Health America of Ohio American Association of Christian Counselors Peter Rosenberger Resources (mentioned off-mic) A Minute For Caregivers Peter’s Podcast Scriptures mentioned: 2 Corinthians 10:5; Matthew 28:20 If you enjoyed the show, leave a 5-star review! The Podcast is on YouTube Check out my new website Click here if you want to be a guest on the show Carrie’s Facebook or Instagram Find me on Substack My book: The Other Side of Special *This podcast features honest conversations with special needs parents and faith-filled guests. While I deeply value the stories and insights shared, the views and opinions expressed may not always reflect my own. Any resources listed are shared for reference, not necessarily a personal recommendation. I invite you to listen with spiritual discernment and ask the Holy Spirit to guide you in what you hold onto and set aside.
- Transcript
S3 · E57
September 1 · 45 min
Caring for the Caregiver: How Your Story, Grief, and Community Can Lead to Healing with Cathy Loerzel
What if some of the ways you respond to the hard things happening right now are connected to stories of heartache from your past? For caregivers, especially parents raising children with disabilities or ongoing medical needs, the trauma doesn't necessarily happen once. Hospitalizations, diagnoses, medical crises, uncertainty, grief, and the daily demands of caregiving can create an ongoing cycle of trauma and loss. In this episode of This Unexpected Life, I sit down with Cathy Loerzel, co-author of Redeeming Heartache and a Story Work coach, to talk about how our past stories can shape the way we respond to the challenges we're facing today. Cathy explains Story Work and why simply trying to change our behavior “in the now” doesn't always work when those patterns are actually anchored in experiences from “back there.” We talk about the childhood wounds that can shape our ability to connect with ourselves, others, God, and the world—and how revisiting those stories can help us heal. But this conversation goes even deeper. We talk about grief, lament, and why Christians don't need to stay on the positive side of the emotional scale. Cathy shares why she believes we have to be willing to experience the depths of sorrow if we want to experience the depths of joy. She also offers a beautiful picture of grief as letting go of the rope and allowing yourself to drop into the U—to stop fighting, stop gripping, and allow yourself to be held by God and the earth. And for caregivers who feel like they have to do everything themselves, Cathy has an important reminder: We were never created to do this alone. This is a conversation about story, trauma, grief, lament, community, self-compassion, and learning how to flourish—not because our circumstances have changed, but because we are learning how to become more fully human within them. As Cathy reminds us, there may not be an easy way through caregiving. But there can be resiliency, small moments of joy, and small practices of care along the way. Eps. 57; 9/1/2026 Resources: Cathy Loerzel’s Website Follow Cathy on IG Book: Redeeming Heartache Cathy’s Retreats: Sacred Interruptions The Allender Center If you enjoyed the show, leave a 5-star review! The Podcast is on YouTube Check out my new website Click here if you want to be a guest on the show Carrie’s Facebook or Instagram Find me on Substack My book: The Other Side of Special *This podcast features honest conversations with special needs parents and faith-filled guests. While I deeply value the stories and insights shared, the views and opinions expressed may not always reflect my own. Any resources listed are shared for reference, not necessarily a personal recommendation. I invite you to listen with spiritual discernment and ask the Holy Spirit to guide you in what you hold onto and set aside.
- Transcript
S2 · E56
July 21 · 57 min
Finding Jesus in Chronic Illness, Weakness and Caregiving with Kristen Wetherell and Sarah Walton
For anyone walking through chronic illness, relentless suffering, caregivers, and special needs parenting, this conversation offers gentle biblical encouragement for the days when life doesn’t improve. Carrie sits down with bestselling authors Kristen Wetherell and Sarah Walton to discuss their new book, Jesus Will Meet You There, and the surprising ways Christ meets us—not after the pain ends, but right in the middle of it. Together they share their deeply personal stories of chronic Lyme disease, parenting children with complex neurological needs, making heartbreaking residential care decisions, wrestling with doubt, and discovering God's faithfulness when healing doesn't come. In this episode, you'll hear: Why weakness isn't something God asks us to hide How shame often keeps caregivers from receiving God's grace What Jesus teaches us about suffering through the Gospels The difference between doubt and unbelief Encouragement for parents making impossible caregiving decisions How suffering changes the way we pray Practical hope for caregivers wondering how they'll keep going tomorrow If you've ever wondered whether Jesus still sees you in the exhaustion of caregiving, chronic illness, and ongoing trials, this conversation reminds us that He isn't waiting on the other side of our suffering—He's already with us in it. Eps. 56; July 21, 2026 Resources: Jesus Will Meet You There Video Series Sarah Walton IG Sarah’s Substack Kristen’s IG Kristen’s Website There Was Jesus Spotify Playlist If you enjoyed the show, leave a 5-star review! The Podcast is on YouTube Check out my new website Click here if you want to be a guest on the show Carrie’s Facebook or Instagram Find me on Substack My book: The Other Side of Special *This podcast features honest conversations with special needs parents and faith-filled guests. While I deeply value the stories and insights shared, the views and opinions expressed may not always reflect my own. Any resources listed are shared for reference, not necessarily a personal recommendation. I invite you to listen with spiritual discernment and ask the Holy Spirit to guide you in what you hold onto and set aside.
- Transcript
S2 · E55
July 14 · 46 min
When Shame Shapes Your Story: Finding Freedom, Healing, and God's Love in the Special Needs Parenting Journey with Dr. Zoe Shaw
For many parents raising children with disabilities, shame quietly becomes part of the journey. We question our parenting, compare ourselves to other families, wonder if we've somehow failed, and sometimes even believe God is disappointed with us. In this deeply honest conversation, licensed psychotherapist, author, and special needs mom Dr. Zoe Shaw shares her own unexpected story of placing her first child for adoption, raising a daughter with a rare genetic disorder, and wrestling with the painful belief that God was punishing her. Together, Carrie and Dr. Zoe explore the difference between guilt, shame, and the concept Dr. Zoe calls Complex Shame—a deeper form of shame that often develops through repeated painful experiences and can quietly shape our relationships, parenting, and even how we see God. Whether you're newly navigating a diagnosis or have been caregiving for years, this episode offers biblical hope, practical wisdom, and compassionate encouragement for anyone longing to step out of hiding and experience the freedom Christ offers. In this episode, you'll learn: What Complex Shame is and why it affects many caregivers The difference between guilt, shame, and identity How shame influences our relationship with God Practical first steps toward healing How to recognize shame before it controls your decisions Ways to parent without passing shame to your children Why it's okay to grieve the life you didn't choose while still loving your child deeply How God's pursuit of us continues even in seasons of anger and doubt Eps. 55; July 14, 2026 Resources: Dr. Zoe’s Website Dr. Zoe on Instagram Book: Stronger in The Difficult Places Book: A Year of Self-Care: Daily Practices and Inspiration for Caring For Yourself There Was Jesus Spotify Playlist If you enjoyed the show, leave a 5-star review! The Podcast is on YouTube Check out my new website Click here if you want to be a guest on the show Carrie’s Facebook or Instagram Find me on Substack My book: The Other Side of Special *This podcast features honest conversations with special needs parents and faith-filled guests. While I deeply value the stories and insights shared, the views and opinions expressed may not always reflect my own. Any resources listed are shared for reference, not necessarily a personal recommendation. I invite you to listen with spiritual discernment and ask the Holy Spirit to guide you in what you hold onto and set aside.
- Transcript
S2 · E54
July 7 · 47 min
When God Doesn't Prevent Suffering: Wrestling with Difficult Questions in Disability Parenting with Sandy Ramsey-Trayvick
In this powerful episode of This Unexpected Life, Carrie sits down with author, speaker, coach, and special needs mom Sandy Ramsey-Trayvick to explore what it means to trust God when life doesn't unfold the way we imagined. After hearing the audible voice of God tell her she would have a son, Sandy expected God had extraordinary plans for his life. But when her healthy toddler contracted bacterial meningitis at just 13 months old, everything changed. Doctors told her he would never walk, talk, or live outside an institution. Instead of the future she imagined, Sandy found herself walking a lifelong journey of disability parenting, caregiving, advocacy, and wrestling honestly with God. Together, Carrie and Sandy discuss the questions every special needs parent eventually asks: Why would God allow this? Can I trust Him when I don't understand? Where is Jesus in the middle of suffering? How do I continue believing God's promises when life still hurts? Sandy shares remarkable stories of God's quiet provision—from unexpected doctors arriving at just the right moment to discovering that God's greatest miracles were often not the ones she prayed for, but the ones that transformed her heart. Whether you're raising a child with disabilities, walking through caregiving, grieving unmet expectations, or simply wondering where God is in your own suffering, this conversation offers Biblical encouragement and practical hope for recognizing Jesus' presence in the middle of life's hardest seasons. Sometimes we don't see Him while we're living the story. But looking back... There was Jesus Eps. 54; July 7, 2026 Resources: Sandy’s Website Sandy on Instagram When Dreams are Disrupted There Was Jesus Spotify Playlist If you enjoyed the show, leave a 5-star review! The Podcast is on YouTube Check out my new website Click here if you want to be a guest on the show Carrie’s Facebook or Instagram Find me on Substack My book: The Other Side of Special *This podcast features honest conversations with special needs parents and faith-filled guests. While I deeply value the stories and insights shared, the views and opinions expressed may not always reflect my own. Any resources listed are shared for reference, not necessarily a personal recommendation. I invite you to listen with spiritual discernment and ask the Holy Spirit to guide you in what you hold onto and set aside.
- Transcript
S2 · E53
June 23 · 35 min
Learning to Embrace the Life You Didn't Expect: Finding Peace, Purpose, and Prayer in the Special Needs Parenting Journey with Jenn Soehnlin
When Jenn Soehnlin's two young sons began receiving diagnoses including hearing loss, apraxia, autism, and anxiety, her world quickly filled with therapies, specialists, grief, and questions for God. What started as a season of overwhelming uncertainty led Jenn into a crisis of faith as she wrestled with why God would allow so much hardship in her family's life. Then, during a desperate moment, God whispered a single word to her heart: embrace. In this encouraging conversation, Jenn shares how that one word transformed the way she viewed her children, her marriage, herself, and even God. Together, Carrie and Jenn discuss learning to embrace the life you didn't choose, releasing unrealistic expectations and mom guilt, finding peace in the middle of chaos, and discovering God's faithfulness through every stage of the special needs journey. Jenn also shares how praying Scripture changed her relationship with God, practical ways parents can begin praying God's Word over their children, and how to persevere when prayers seem unanswered. If you've ever wondered where God is amid your family's struggles, this episode is a reminder that His presence is often closer than we realize. In this episode: • Learning to embrace the special needs journey • Finding peace in the middle of uncertainty • Releasing mom guilt and unrealistic expectations • The power of praying Scripture • Persevering through unanswered prayers • Recognizing God's presence in suffering • Encouragement for special needs parents Eps. 53; June 23, 2026 Resources: Jenn’s Website On The Same Page With God by Jenn Soehnlin Embracing This Special Life Spotify Playlist: There Was Jesus Praying the Bible by Donald Whitney Praying Through Life’s Battles by Rachel Wojo Every Moment Holy Scripture: Psalm 116:2, Luke 2:52 If you enjoyed the show, leave a 5-star review! The Podcast is on YouTube Check out my new website Click here if you want to be a guest on the show Carrie’s Facebook or Instagram Find me on Substack My book: The Other Side of Special *This podcast features honest conversations with special needs parents and faith-filled guests. While I deeply value the stories and insights shared, the views and opinions expressed may not always reflect my own. Any resources listed are shared for reference, not necessarily a personal recommendation. I invite you to listen with spiritual discernment and ask the Holy Spirit to guide you in what you hold onto and set aside.
- Transcript
S2 · E52
June 16 · 43 min
The Autism Caregiver's Journey: Finding Jesus in Perfectionism, People-Pleasing, and Isolation with Sarah Mays
When Sarah Mays first heard her newborn son cry, she knew something wasn't right. What followed was a long journey of medical appointments, therapies, genetic testing, autism, ADHD, and learning how to advocate fiercely for her child. In this heartfelt episode of This Unexpected Life, Sarah shares how caregiving has been woven throughout her entire life—from caring for her younger sister as a child to raising a son with complex medical needs and autism as a single mom of five. Together, Carrie and Sarah discuss the grief that accompanies every stage of the special needs parenting journey, the church hurt many disability families experience, and the importance of finding safe people who will simply sit with you in the pain. Sarah offers powerful encouragement for caregivers struggling to see Jesus in their suffering, reminding us that God's greatest work isn't always found in deliverance—but often in His presence as He carries us through the hard things. Through honest conversations about perfectionism, people-pleasing, isolation, and grace, Sarah invites listeners to embrace the messy middle and discover that they were never meant to walk this journey alone. If you're navigating a diagnosis, caregiving, autism parenting, disability, chronic illness, or the ongoing grief that comes with raising a child with special needs, this episode will remind you that God's grace is sufficient for today Eps. 52; June 16, 2026 Resources: Spotify Playlist: There Was Jesus If you enjoyed the show, leave a 5-star review! The Podcast is on YouTube Check out my new website Click here if you want to be a guest on the show Carrie’s Facebook or Instagram Find me on Substack My book: The Other Side of Special *This podcast features honest conversations with special needs parents and faith-filled guests. While I deeply value the stories and insights shared, the views and opinions expressed may not always reflect my own. Any resources listed are shared for reference, not necessarily a personal recommendation. I invite you to listen with spiritual discernment and ask the Holy Spirit to guide you in what you hold onto and set aside.
- Transcript
S2 · E51
June 9 · 37 min
When You Feel Alone: Finding God’s Provision and Presence in a Rare Diagnosis with Brianna Johnson
When Brianna Johnson's son was diagnosed with Bainbridge-Ropers Syndrome, a rare genetic condition affecting only a few hundred people worldwide, her family entered a journey they never expected. Faced with uncertainty, unanswered questions, and the reality of parenting a child with complex needs, Brianna discovered that even the rarest diagnoses don't have to be walked alone. In this episode of This Unexpected Life, Brianna shares how finding community across state lines and even across oceans helped her family feel seen and supported. She opens up about raising three boys with different needs, navigating school supports and IEP meetings, learning to celebrate "inchstones" instead of just milestones, and embracing the grace to parent one day at a time. As part of our There Was Jesus series, Brianna reflects on the unexpected ways God has shown up throughout her family's journey—through teachers, doctors, friendships, and the small moments that reveal His faithfulness. If you've ever felt isolated by your child's diagnosis, discouraged by slow progress, or wondered where God is in the middle of the unknown, this conversation will remind you that you are not alone and that God's presence is often found in the people and provisions He places along the way. Eps. 51; June 9, 2026 Resources: Brianna’s Website Instagram Spotify Playlist: There Was Jesus If you enjoyed the show, leave a 5-star review! The Podcast is on YouTube Check out my new website Click here if you want to be a guest on the show Carrie’s Facebook or Instagram Find me on Substack My book: The Other Side of Special *This podcast features honest conversations with special needs parents and faith-filled guests. While I deeply value the stories and insights shared, the views and opinions expressed may not always reflect my own. Any resources listed are shared for reference, not necessarily a personal recommendation. I invite you to listen with spiritual discernment and ask the Holy Spirit to guide you in what you hold onto and set aside.
- Transcript
S2 · E50
June 2 · 42 min
There Was Jesus: Knowing God’s Presence in Trauma, Loss & Disability Parenting with Becky Davidson
This month kicks off the new podcast series entitled, There Was Jesus. In this deeply honest episode of This Unexpected Life, Carrie M. Holt sits down with returning guest Becky Davidson to discuss recognizing God’s presence in the middle of suffering, trauma, grief, and caregiving exhaustion. Becky shares how years of hospital stays, caregiving stress, widowhood, and parenting her adult son with profound disabilities shaped her faith journey. Together, Carrie and Becky discuss how trauma impacts the way we see God, the healing power of EMDR therapy, imaginative prayer, attachment wounds, anxiety, and learning to recognize the presence of Jesus in painful memories. This conversation offers hope for special needs parents, caregivers, widows, and anyone walking through grief or chronic stress. If you’ve ever wondered where God was in your hardest moments, this episode is a reminder that Jesus was there — even when you couldn’t see Him. You’ll also hear encouragement about: Processing trauma safely in community EMDR and Christian counseling Learning spiritual rhythms of remembering God’s faithfulness Healing attachment wounds and anxiety Finding God’s presence in caregiving burnout Eps. 50; June 2, 2026 Resources: Register for By The Brook or Purchase it for Later! Rising Above Podcast Spotify Playlist: There Was Jesus Becky on Episode 9: Worst-Case Scenario By The Brook: Restore Retreat Experience By The Brook: Flourish Retreat Experience John Eldredge’s Podcast: Wild At Heart John Eldredge’s Books Mentioned: Get Your Life Back Resilient Experience Jesus Really One Minute Pause App Healing Care Center Adam Young’s Podcast: The Place We Find Ourselves Allender Center: Story Work If you enjoyed the show, leave a 5-star review! The Podcast is on YouTube Check out my new website Click here if you want to be a guest on the show Carrie’s Facebook or Instagram Find me on Substack My book: The Other Side of Special *This podcast features honest conversations with special needs parents and faith-filled guests. While I deeply value the stories and insights shared, the views and opinions expressed may not always reflect my own. Any resources listed are shared for reference, not necessarily a personal recommendation. I invite you to listen with spiritual discernment and ask the Holy Spirit to guide you in what you hold onto and set aside.
- Transcript
S2 · E49
May 19 · 40 min
When Your Child Asks Difficult Questions: Navigating Faith, Medical Motherhood and Rare Disease with Katie Seelig
In this heartfelt episode of This Unexpected Life, Carrie sits down with homeschooling mom of six, Katie Seelig, to discuss raising a child with a rare neuromuscular condition, navigating medical uncertainty, and learning to trust God in the unknown. Katie shares the emotional journey of discovering her son’s scoliosis at age three, pursuing answers through specialists and genetic testing, and eventually learning he had a rare FLNC gene mutation connected to congenital myopathy and cardiomyopathy. Along the way, she opens up about medical motherhood, grief, postpartum anxiety, advocacy, sibling dynamics, homeschooling, and the challenge of carrying heavy burdens while trying to stay strong for everyone else. Together, Carrie and Katie discuss what it means to steward a child’s care faithfully, how to respond when your child asks hard questions like, “Am I going to die?”, and why vulnerability, therapy, and community support are vital for special needs parents. This conversation is filled with honest faith, practical encouragement, and the reminder that even in sorrow and uncertainty, God remains faithful Eps. 49; May 19, 2026 If you enjoyed the show, leave a 5-star review! The Podcast is on YouTube Check out my new website Click here if you want to be a guest on the show Carrie’s Facebook or Instagram Find me on Substack My book: The Other Side of Special *This podcast features honest conversations with special needs parents and faith-filled guests. While I deeply value the stories and insights shared, the views and opinions expressed may not always reflect my own. Any resources listed are shared for reference, not necessarily a personal recommendation. I invite you to listen with spiritual discernment and ask the Holy Spirit to guide you in what you hold onto and set aside.
- Transcript
S2 · E48
May 12 · 45 min
When Your Yes Is On The Table: Trusting God Through Disability Parenting, Adoption, and Trauma with Johnna Hensley
What does it look like to keep saying “yes” to God when life feels chaotic, exhausting, and completely unexpected? In this heartfelt conversation, Carrie Holt sits down with author, disability mom, and “coordinator of chaos,” Johnna Hensley. With six children—including a son with complex medical needs and three adopted children—Johnna shares what it really means to live a life of unexpected yeses. From navigating disability parenting and biracial adoption to processing trauma, grief, and the reality of “forever nesting,” this episode dives deep into the everyday surrender required to follow God in the hard places. Johnna offers honest insight into: Letting go of control and trusting God’s bigger story The shift from big, visible “yeses” to small, daily obedience Advocating for disability awareness and belonging Parenting through trauma triggers and emotional overwhelm Reframing expectations around independence and adulthood Finding peace in the questions instead of rushing to answers This conversation is a powerful reminder that faith isn’t about having it all figured out—it’s about being willing to be willing and trusting God one small “yes” at a time. If you’re a parent navigating disability, adoption, or the unexpected turns of life, this episode will meet you right where you are—with honesty, hope, and grace. Eps. 48; May 12, 2026 Resources: Johnna’s Website Her Book: Reckless Yes Children’s Book: HP and the VIP’s Social Media: IG, FB, YouTube Listen to This Podcast If you enjoyed the show, leave a 5-star review! The Podcast is on YouTube Check out my new website Click here if you want to be a guest on the show Carrie’s Facebook or Instagram Find me on Substack My book: The Other Side of Special *This podcast features honest conversations with special needs parents and faith-filled guests. While I deeply value the stories and insights shared, the views and opinions expressed may not always reflect my own. Any resources listed are shared for reference, not necessarily a personal recommendation. I invite you to listen with spiritual discernment and ask the Holy Spirit to guide you in what you hold onto and set aside.
- Transcript
S2 · E47
May 5 · 51 min
The Special Needs Parenting Journey: Faith, Marriage & Finding Hope in the Life You Never Expected with Dr. Joe & Cindi Ferrini
What happens when the life you planned is suddenly replaced with one you never expected? In this powerful and deeply practical episode of This Unexpected Life, Carrie sits down with Dr. Joe and Cindi Ferrini, authors of The Special Needs Parent: A Guide to the Life You Never Expected, to talk about what it really looks like to raise a child with special needs over the long haul. With over 45 years of caregiving experience, Joe and Cindi share honest insight into the shock of diagnosis, the strain on marriage, the weight of caregiving, and the beauty of a life shaped by faith. From navigating sibling dynamics and isolation to handling public judgment and building a support system, this conversation is filled with wisdom you can apply right now. You’ll hear: How special needs parenting reshapes marriage—and how to stay united Practical ways to support siblings without neglecting their needs What to do when people stare, judge, or don’t understand How to build a “team” when you feel completely alone Real encouragement for caregiver fatigue and long-term burnout Why embracing your unexpected life can lead to deeper purpose and joy This episode is for any parent walking the special needs journey—whether you're in the early shock, the daily grind, or years into caregiving and needing renewed hope. You are not alone. Your story matters Eps. 47; May 5, 2026 Resources: New Book: The Special Needs Parent Cindi’s Website If you enjoyed the show, leave a 5-star review! The Podcast is on YouTube Check out my new website Click here if you want to be a guest on the show Carrie’s Facebook or Instagram Find me on Substack My book: The Other Side of Special *This podcast features honest conversations with special needs parents and faith-filled guests. While I deeply value the stories and insights shared, the views and opinions expressed may not always reflect my own. Any resources listed are shared for reference, not necessarily a personal recommendation. I invite you to listen with spiritual discernment and ask the Holy Spirit to guide you in what you hold onto and set aside.
- Transcript
S2 · E46
April 21 · 38 min
Desperate Prayers and Deep Faith: Finding God in Long-Term Caregiving and Loss with Rachel Wojo
What do you do when you don’t have the words to pray? In this deeply honest and hope-filled conversation, Carrie sits down with author and speaker Rachel Wojo to talk about caregiving, grief, and how prayer transforms in life’s hardest seasons. After walking a 22-year journey caring for her daughter Taylor, who was diagnosed with a rare terminal disorder, Rachel shares how suffering reshaped her faith, her understanding of God, and her approach to prayer. Together, they unpack what it looks like to move from asking “Why, God?” to “Show me You,” how to pray in moments of exhaustion and overwhelm, and why God’s presence matters more than His intervention. Rachel offers practical, grace-filled ways to build rhythms of prayer in unpredictable caregiving life, including “prayer habit stacking” and letting go of prayer perfectionism. If you’re a special needs parent, caregiver, or someone walking through grief, this episode will remind you that even your simplest prayers—“God help me”—are heard, held, and answered with His presence. Eps. 46; April 21, 2026 Resources: Rachel’s Website Book: Desperate Prayers Praying Through Life’s Battles If you enjoyed the show, leave a 5-star review! The Podcast is on YouTube Check out my new website Click here if you want to be a guest on the show Carrie’s Facebook or Instagram Find me on Substack My book: The Other Side of Special *This podcast features honest conversations with special needs parents and faith-filled guests. While I deeply value the stories and insights shared, the views and opinions expressed may not always reflect my own. Any resources listed are shared for reference, not necessarily a personal recommendation. I invite you to listen with spiritual discernment and ask the Holy Spirit to guide you in what you hold onto and set aside.
- Transcript
S2 · E45
April 14 · 36 min
From Disability to Calling: Finding Purpose, Identity & Joy in Christ with Anna Harp (Part 2)
In Part 2 of this powerful conversation on This Unexpected Life, Carrie M. Holt continues her interview with Anna Harp, a young writer living with cerebral palsy who is discovering her God-given purpose through storytelling. Anna opens up about the ongoing grief that can come with disability and the freedom of realizing that grief is not failure—it’s part of the journey. Through reflections on Psalm 23 and God’s “withness” in the wilderness, she shares how God meets us in our hardest places and gently reshapes our understanding of purpose. You’ll also hear how Anna discovered her calling as a fantasy writer, creating stories where characters with disabilities are seen, valued, and empowered. Her passion is to help teens with disabilities feel understood, less alone, and full of hope. This episode is a deeply encouraging reminder that: Your child’s story matters Disability does not disqualify purpose God uses the broken things for beauty and impact Whether you are parenting a child with special needs or walking through your own unexpected journey, this conversation will strengthen your faith and remind you that God is always at work—even in the wilderness. Eps. 45; April 14, 2026 Resources: Subscribe to Anna’s Monthly Newsletter Purchase Book Featuring Her Writing Anna’s Website If you enjoyed the show, leave a 5-star review! The Podcast is on YouTube Check out my new website Click here if you want to be a guest on the show Carrie’s Facebook or Instagram Find me on Substack My book: The Other Side of Special *This podcast features honest conversations with special needs parents and faith-filled guests. While I deeply value the stories and insights shared, the views and opinions expressed may not always reflect my own. Any resources listed are shared for reference, not necessarily a personal recommendation. I invite you to listen with spiritual discernment and ask the Holy Spirit to guide you in what you hold onto and set aside.
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S2 · E44
April 7 · 42 min
Cerebral Palsy, Faith & Overcoming Fear: A Teen’s Journey from Feeling “Less Than” to Trusting God With Anna Harp (Part 1)
In Part 1 of this powerful two-part conversation, Carrie sits down with Anna Harp, a young adult living with spastic diplegic cerebral palsy, to share her story of faith, fear, and transformation. Born at just 27 weeks and spending nearly three months in the NICU, Anna’s life began with immense challenges. As she grew, she wrestled deeply with feeling “less than,” questioning God’s goodness, and navigating the emotional weight of living with a disability. In this honest and hope-filled episode, Anna shares: When she first realized she was different Her struggle with comparison, anger, and faith The moment her faith became personal Her life-changing spinal surgery and recovery How she relearned to walk—step by step—with Jesus This episode is for any parent raising a child with disabilities, and for anyone walking through fear, grief, or uncertainty. Anna’s story is a reminder that even in the unexpected places—Jesus is there Eps. 44; April 7, 2026 Resources: Subscribe to Anna’s Monthly Newsletter Purchase Book Featuring Her Writing Anna’s Website If you enjoyed the show, leave a 5-star review! The Podcast is on YouTube Check out my new website Click here if you want to be a guest on the show Carrie’s Facebook or Instagram Find me on Substack My book: The Other Side of Special *This podcast features honest conversations with special needs parents and faith-filled guests. While I deeply value the stories and insights shared, the views and opinions expressed may not always reflect my own. Any resources listed are shared for reference, not necessarily a personal recommendation. I invite you to listen with spiritual discernment and ask the Holy Spirit to guide you in what you hold onto and set aside.
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S2 · E43
March 24 · 43 min
Why Disability Ministry Isn’t One-Sided (And What the Church Is Missing) with Barb Stanley
What happens when the life you planned falls apart—and God builds something completely unexpected in its place? In this episode of This Unexpected Life, Carrie sits down with Barb Stanley, founder of Wonderful Works Ministry, to talk about losing everything she thought defined her success… and discovering a deeper calling rooted in surrender, identity, and purpose. Barb shares how her journey through career loss, disappointment, and shame led to the unexpected birth of a ministry that is now helping churches across the country become more accessible to families impacted by disability. Together, they unpack: The truth about identity and why your worth is not tied to what you do A harmful misconception about disability ministry in the church The scripture often misused when talking about disability—and why it matters How families impacted by disability are essential to the future and revival of the Church Practical ways churches and families can begin working together If you’ve ever felt unseen, exhausted, or like you don’t belong in church because of your child’s needs—this conversation will remind you: your story matters, your presence matters, and you are deeply needed in the Kingdom of God. Eps. 43; March 24, 2026 Resources: Barb’s Facebook & Instagram Wonderful Works Ministry If you enjoyed the show, leave a 5-star review! The Podcast is on YouTube Check out my new website Click here if you want to be a guest on the show Carrie’s Facebook or Instagram Find me on Substack My book: The Other Side of Special *This podcast features honest conversations with special needs parents and faith-filled guests. While I deeply value the stories and insights shared, the views and opinions expressed may not always reflect my own. Any resources listed are shared for reference, not necessarily a personal recommendation. I invite you to listen with spiritual discernment and ask the Holy Spirit to guide you in what you hold onto and set aside.
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S2 · E42
March 17 · 48 min
Autism, Faith, and the Gospel: Raising an Autistic Child to Know God with Larah Roberts
What happens when an autism diagnosis reshapes everything you expected about parenting—and faith? In this episode of This Unexpected Life, Carrie Holt talks with Bible teacher, author, and autism mom Larah Roberts about navigating autism parenting through the lens of the gospel. Larah shares the story of her son Graham’s autism diagnosis and the difficult early years of confusion, advocacy, and learning how to trust God in the unexpected. Together, they explore some of the biggest questions Christian parents ask after a diagnosis: • Can my autistic child truly know God? • What does discipleship look like for neurodiverse children? • How do parents advocate for their child without losing their Christian witness? • What do we do when suffering makes us question our faith? Larah also shares insights from her book Letters to Lindsey: Seeing Your Child’s Autism Diagnosis Through a Gospel Lens, offering practical and spiritual encouragement for parents who feel overwhelmed by the road ahead. If you are raising a child with autism or disability and wondering how faith fits into this journey, this conversation will remind you that God is still faithful, the gospel still applies, and your child is an image bearer deeply known and loved by Him. Eps. 42; 3/17/26 Resources: Larah Roberts Instagram Book: How To Advocate & Stay Christian Book: Letters to Lindsey: Seeing Your Child’s Autism Diagnosis Through a Gospel Lens If you enjoyed the show, leave a 5-star review! The Podcast is on YouTube Check out my new website Click here if you want to be a guest on the show Carrie’s Facebook or Instagram Find me on Substack My book: The Other Side of Special *This podcast features honest conversations with special needs parents and faith-filled guests. While I deeply value the stories and insights shared, the views and opinions expressed may not always reflect my own. Any resources listed are shared for reference, not necessarily a personal recommendation. I invite you to listen with spiritual discernment and ask the Holy Spirit to guide you in what you hold onto and set aside.
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S2 · E41
March 10 · 40 min
The Hidden Story of Special Needs Siblings: Growing Up with Disability and Raising a Child with Autism with Sandra Peoples
What is it really like to grow up as the sibling of a child with disabilities? How does that experience shape the way you parent your own family? In this episode of This Unexpected Life, Carrie Holt talks with Sandra Peoples, a disability ministry consultant, author, professor, and mom of a son with level-three autism. Sandra shares her unique perspective of living on both sides of the story: growing up with a sister with Down syndrome and now raising a child with significant autism. Sandra opens up about the hidden experiences many siblings carry — from trying to make themselves “smaller,” so their parents have less to worry about, to navigating embarrassment, protectiveness, and love. Together, Carrie and Sandra discuss: • What Sandra’s parents did well in raising a special needs sibling • The stage of life that can be most difficult for siblings • How parents can validate difficult emotions without guilt or shame • Navigating responsibility and avoiding unhealthy parentification • Why disability families are still one of the most overlooked mission fields in the church If you’re raising a child with disabilities and wondering how this journey is shaping your other children, this honest and grace-filled conversation will offer both wisdom and encouragement. Eps. 41; 3/10/26 Resources: Sandra’s Book: Accessible Church Find Sandra on FB and Instagram Sandra’s Website If you enjoyed the show, leave a 5-star review! The Podcast is on YouTube Check out my new website Click here if you want to be a guest on the show Carrie’s Facebook or Instagram Find me on Substack My book: The Other Side of Special *This podcast features honest conversations with special needs parents and faith-filled guests. While I deeply value the stories and insights shared, the views and opinions expressed may not always reflect my own. Any resources listed are shared for reference, not necessarily a personal recommendation. I invite you to listen with spiritual discernment and ask the Holy Spirit to guide you in what you hold onto and set aside.
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