Shows
This Unexpected LifeHow to Process Grief as a Special Needs Mom: Lament, Sibling Dynamics & Trusting God in Ongoing Medical Trauma with Jen Potter (Part 2)In Part 2 of Carrie’s conversation with Jen Potter, the focus turns to grief, sibling dynamics, and learning to trust God in the middle of ongoing medical trauma.Jen shares what it has looked like to raise five children while navigating cancer, 37 surgeries, and unexpected neurological setbacks. She speaks candidly about parenting “glass children,” protecting siblings from carrying too much responsibility, and creating space for their grief without shame.Together, Carrie and Jen explore the fear many special needs moms carry — that if they truly allow themselves to grieve, they may not recover. They discuss biblical...
2026-02-1731 minThis Unexpected LifeWhen Suffering Isn’t Resolved: Finding Rest, Faith, and Living Life Open-Handed with Jen PotterWhat do you do when the suffering doesn’t end—and there’s no clear resolution in sight?In Part One of this heartfelt conversation, Carrie sits down with her friend Jen Potter to talk honestly about unresolved grief, long-term caregiving, and learning to live with open hands before God. Jen shares her journey of parenting a son with Spina Bifida and Autism, walking through cancer twice, and facing years of uncertainty that reshaped how she understands faith, rest, and surrender.Together, they explore what it looks like to trust God’s presence when answers don’t co...
2026-02-1039 minThis Unexpected LifeWhen Caregiving Feels Unseen: Finding God’s Presence in Lifelong Special Needs ParentingWhat happens when caregiving lasts far longer than you ever imagined—and no one is applauding?In this deeply honest episode, Carrie sits down with Beth Benson, a mother whose life has been shaped by infertility, trauma, adoption, autism, and decades of full-time caregiving for a son with a rare chromosome disorder. Together, they talk about the unseen cost of special needs parenting, the grief that accumulates quietly over time, and the moment Beth questioned whether God was truly good.Beth shares how years of survival led to trauma, how grief can “come out sideways” when i...
2026-02-0335 minThis Unexpected LifeThe Long Wait: Trusting God Through Autism, Infertility, and Unanswered Prayers with Jenna ErlandsonIn this episode of This Unexpected Life, Carrie Holt talks with Jenna Erlandson,, a mother of six, about her journey through infertility, postpartum depression, and receiving an autism diagnosis for her son. Jenna shares how seasons of waiting, uncertainty, and loss of control shaped her faith and taught her to trust God’s faithfulness.This honest conversation explores special needs parenting, listening to maternal instincts, navigating mental health challenges, and finding hope and joy in unexpected places. If you are a Christian parent walking through autism, infertility, or a long season of waiting, this episode offers encouragement, tr...
2026-01-2045 minThis Unexpected LifeWhen Special Needs Parenting Becomes Survival: Faith, Endurance and Autism Parenting with Celeste ShallyWhat happens when special needs parenting moves beyond exhaustion and into survival?In this deeply honest and faith-filled conversation, Carrie M. Holt sits down with Celeste Shally, author of While We Wait: Clinging to Christ in the Trenches of Special Needs Parenting, to talk about the rarely discussed reality of long-term violence in special needs parenting—and the relentless suffering that comes with it.Celeste shares her journey as a mother to an adult son with autism whose escalating violent behaviors dominated their family life for over a decade. From living in constant fear, isolation, an...
2026-01-1346 minThis Unexpected LifeFinding God in the Autism Journey: Jeanetta Bryant on Hope, Healing, and AdvocacyWhen Jeanetta Bryant’s daughter was diagnosed with autism, her world changed overnight. What began as heartbreak soon became a journey of faith, perseverance, and unexpected purpose. In this episode, Jeanetta shares how God met her in the middle of the unknown—guiding her through grief, growth, and the birth of her nonprofit, Abilities Workshop. Through her story, you’ll hear powerful reminders that God is present in every diagnosis, every setback, and every small step forward.If you’ve ever wondered where God is in your own unexpected journey, this conversation will encourage you to keep trusting...
2026-01-0643 minThis Unexpected LifeWhen Fear Clouds the Future: An Advent Reflection for Special Needs MomsIn this Advent reflection, Carrie M. Holt closes out the year with a powerful reminder for the special-needs mom who finds herself afraid. Drawing from the Christmas story—Zechariah’s uncertainty, Mary’s shock, and Joseph’s quiet fear—Carrie shares how God met each person right where they were, in their real-life moments of confusion and overwhelm.Through honest stories from her own month of unexpected struggles, Carrie points to the truth that God not only sees our tears and our long nights of tossing—but He dwells with us right in the middle of them.If you’...
2025-12-0915 min
Rising Above with Becky DavidsonJesus Stories: Carrie M. HoltEpisode Title:
Jesus Stories: Carrie M. Holt
About the Episode:
In this conversation, Becky Davidson and Carrie M. Holt explore the profound impact of faith on their lives, sharing personal stories of childhood, struggles with identity, and the challenges of parenting a child with special needs. They discuss the importance of recognizing Jesus' humanity, the hope of heaven, and the encouragement needed for parents facing difficult times. Through their experiences, they emphasize the significance of community, trust in God, and the journey of wrestling with faith amidst adversity.
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2025-12-0242 minThis Unexpected LifeGod With Us in the Unexpected: An Advent Reflection For Disability MothersIn this Advent reflection, Carrie M. Holt invites weary, overwhelmed, and tender-hearted special needs moms into the ultimate unexpected story—Christmas. Through a first-person narrative inspired by Mary’s journey in Luke and Matthew, Carrie draws parallels between Mary’s unexpected calling and the everyday realities of disability parenting: medical crises that interrupt holidays, the longing for peace, and the ache of carrying a story you never planned for.With soothing Scripture, honest storytelling, and gentle encouragement, this episode offers a pause in the chaos. Carrie reminds us that Emmanuel—God with us—is present in hospital hallways...
2025-12-0217 minThis Unexpected LifeFinding Rest in Caregiving: Burnout, Faith, and Letting Go with Jess RonneIn this profoundly moving conversation, Carrie M. Holt talks with author and advocate Jess Ronne about her powerful and unexpected story—one marked by disability, grief, resilience, surrender, and the refining work of God. Jess shares her journey from learning of her son Lucas’s profound disabilities, to walking with her late husband through terminal brain cancer, to unexpectedly meeting her second husband, Ryan. She opens up about the weight of long-term caregiving, the burnout that left her unable to get out of bed, and the painful process of releasing control when Lucas transitioned into a group home.To...
2025-11-1833 minThis Unexpected LifeAcceptance: Learning to Live, Grieve, and Thrive in a Life You Didn’t ExpectIn this episode, Carrie Holt closes her grief-cycle series by exploring acceptance, a stage often misunderstood in the journey of raising a child with disabilities or receiving an unexpected diagnosis. Carrie explains what acceptance is not—it’s not “moving on,” it’s not pretending everything is fine, or always a permanent emotional destination. Instead, she unpacks acceptance as surrender, rest, identity rebuilding, active waiting, learning to see God’s beauty again, and believing that life can still hold goodness even when it looks different than what we planned. Through Scripture, honest reflection, and practical insights, this episode invites special-need...
2025-11-1120 minThis Unexpected LifeWhen Grief Needs Words: Learning the Practice of LamentIn this episode, Carrie M. Holt continues her grief-cycle series by exploring lament—the Biblical practice of bringing our raw, honest emotions to God. Through Scripture, personal stories, and reflections from resources like Dark Clouds, Deep Mercy, she explains why lament becomes the bridge between overwhelming sorrow and renewed trust. Carrie outlines the four parts of lament and reminds listeners that God is near, attentive, and tender toward our tears. For special-needs moms walking daily through loss, uncertainty, or exhaustion, this episode offers permission to slow down, name grief, and come to God honestly—just as you are.Ep...
2025-11-0426 min
The Special Needs Mom PodcastWhy Fixing Feels So Heavy (and Acceptance Feels So Light) with Carrie HoltSend us a text (Note: we are not able to respond but LOVE to hear from you!!)This week, I invited my friend and returning guest Carrie M. Holt back to talk about something that every special needs mom wrestles with, the difference between fixing and accepting our children.We unpacked what those energies feel like, how they show up in motherhood, and how they connect to deeper themes of fear, control, grief, and peace. We also talked about how acceptance doesn’t mean giving up. It means seeing our children (and ourselves) as whole, ri...
2025-10-291h 00This Unexpected LifeWhen The Grieving Cycle Includes Anger: How to Respond with Curiosity, Connection, and Coming to GodIn this episode, Carrie M Holt explores one of the most misunderstood emotions in the grief cycle: anger. Whether it’s anger at a diagnosis, inaccessible systems, unfair treatment, or even at God Himself, Carrie reminds us that anger isn’t inherently sinful — but it is an invitation.She walks through real examples from her own life (including her battles with accessible parking rage!) and shares three powerful choices we can make when anger rises:1️⃣ Choose Curiosity — Ask, What is this really about?2️⃣ Choose Connection — Resist comparison; suffering speaks a common language. 3️⃣ Choose Coming — Bring anger to...
2025-10-2117 minThis Unexpected LifeThe “Shoulds” That Sink Us: Untangling Guilt in GriefIn this episode, Carrie M. Holt discusses the complex emotions of guilt that often accompany the grieving process. She unpacks the difference between conviction (from the Holy Spirit) and accusation (from the enemy), and how the “shoulds” we carry pull us deeper into shame and self-judgment.Carrie offers practical advice for managing guilt, including the importance of rest, replacing lies with truth, relinquishing control, and reveal - giving our feelings to God. This episode concludes with a powerful reminder of the listener's identity in Christ, encouraging them to embrace their worth and value as God's beloved children....
2025-10-1413 minThis Unexpected LifeControl to Trust: Facing Fear and Anxiety in This Unexpected JourneyIn this solo episode, Carrie explores fear and anxiety as one of the recurring stages in the grief journey for parents and caregivers of children with disabilities. She unpacks the distinction between fear and anxiety, drawing from Adam Young and Hilary Jacobs Hendel, and shares how perceived dangers often shape our reactions more than present realities.Carrie vulnerably shares a personal story about facing her fears and explores how counseling, prayer, and leaning on Jesus helped reshape her feelings. She identifies common pitfalls in this stage of grief and four things to focus on as we shift...
2025-10-0720 minThis Unexpected LifeMarriage, Caregiving, and Connection: A Conversation with Bruce Holt (Part 2)In this final episode of the month, Carrie is joined once again by her husband, Bruce, for a candid conversation about marriage in the midst of caregiving. From survival mode in the early years after their son Toby’s diagnosis, to counseling and intentional connection in later years, Carrie and Bruce share the real struggles, arguments, and victories of 25-plus years together. They reflect on the importance of teamwork, practical communication tips, and how family, friends, and faith sustained them. With honesty and encouragement, they offer wisdom for couples learning to love well while navigating hard seasons.Ep...
2025-09-2328 minThis Unexpected LifeA Father’s Voice in Special Needs Parenting with Bruce HoltIn this heartfelt episode of This Unexpected Life, Carrie M. Holt sits down with her husband, Bruce, to share the often-unspoken perspective of fathers in the world of special needs parenting. Together, they revisit the day they received their son Toby’s diagnosis, the wave of grief that followed, and the heavy burden of guilt Bruce carried for years. With raw honesty, Bruce describes the struggle of wrestling with thoughts he never expected to face, the power of prayer that changed his heart in an instant, and the long journey of learning to forgive hi...
2025-09-1626 minThis Unexpected LifeFrom Diagnosis to Heaven With Breena Holt on Grief, Guilt, and God’s FaithfulnessIn part two of this conversation, Carrie M Holt continues her conversation with Breena Holt as she shares the heartbreaking diagnosis of Batten Disease for her son Ezekiel—and the faith and hope that carried her family through his final days. Breena vulnerably unpacks her dreams of God’s glory, the paradox of relief and grief in a terminal diagnosis, and the spiritual battle she faced as Zeke entered heaven.Together, Carrie and Breena also discuss the raw mom-guilt that special needs mothers carry, how siblings process loss differently, and why God’s faithfulness continues to anchor their...
2025-09-0929 minThis Unexpected LifeLiving Between Grace and Glory with Breena Holt on Fear, Anxiety, and God’s Goodness in SufferingIn this vulnerable conversation, Carrie sits down with guest Breena Holt to share her family’s journey of raising and ultimately losing her son, Ezekiel, who battled Batten Disease. Breena honestly shares about her anxiety, honest questions about God and suffering, and the dreams God used to prepare her heart for the road ahead. Together, Carrie and Breena explore the difference between the suffering Scripture promises (persecution for our faith) and the heartbreaking suffering of disease, disability, and death. Breena explains how Ezekiel’s illness brought “chaos” to his brain, and how she came to see that God is no...
2025-09-0248 minThis Unexpected LifeWithness in the Wilderness: Finding Renewal in Psalm 23In this conversation, Carrie Holt shares her personal journey as a special needs mom, reflecting on the profound insights she has gained from Psalm 23. She emphasizes the importance of recognizing God as our shepherd, surrendering control, and finding renewal in the wilderness. Through her experiences, she highlights the significance of rest, celebration, and lamenting losses while trusting in God's presence and goodness. The discussion culminates in a call to rejoice in God's faithfulness and to recognize the blessings that come even amidst challenges.Eps. 21: August 26, 2026Resources:Rising Above AppBase Camp...
2025-08-2639 minThis Unexpected LifeCreating Community and Connection for Moms in the Disability Space With Labeled & LovedIn this episode, Carrie M. Holt speaks with Julie Hornok and Dr. Regina Crone, co-founders of Labeled and Loved, an organization dedicated to supporting families with children who have disabilities. They share their personal journeys into the disability space, the importance of community and faith, and how to navigate the unique challenges of motherhood and sibling dynamics. The conversation emphasizes the need for caregivers to find joy, support, and connection, especially through events like the Weekend of Hope retreat.Eps. 20; August 19, 2025Resources:$50 OFF Weekend of Hope with the code: UNEXPECTED50Labeled & Loved Website
2025-08-1935 minThis Unexpected LifeFinding Purpose and Perseverance in Suffering with Dr. Nicole WilkeIn this, the second part of Carrie M. Holt’s interview with Dr. Nicole Wilke, they discuss the importance of faith in overcoming challenges, the lens through which we should view suffering in our lives, and how children of all abilities need to know they have a purpose and a role in their families. This conversation highlights the importance of hope and the unique, beautiful calling of parents who raise children with invisible and visible disabilities.Eps. 19; July 29, 2025Resources:Glass Children: Special Needs Siblings on DisplayLearn more about Overcoming and Caleb Koala's Comeback RideHelping Ch...
2025-07-2922 minThis Unexpected LifeOvercoming Adversity: A Journey of Resilience with Dr. Nicole WilkeIn this episode, host Carrie M. Holt engages with Dr. Nicole Wilke, a researcher and therapist, discussing the challenges and triumphs of parenting children with special needs. They explore the importance of resilience, the impact of early adversity, and the role of attachment in healing. Dr. Wilke shares her personal experiences and insights, emphasizing the need for faith, community, and support in navigating this complex parenting journey.Eps. 18; July 22, 2025Resources:Would You Change it? My Article on SubstackLearn more about Overcoming and Caleb Koala's Comeback RideHelping Children with Disabilities Thrive ebook Purchase the book O...
2025-07-2227 minThis Unexpected LifeA Journey of Acceptance With Kara RyskaIn this episode of This Unexpected Life, host Carrie M Holt engages in a heartfelt conversation with Kara Ryska, a dedicated advocate for families navigating the challenges of raising children with disabilities. Kara shares her personal journey as a mother of four, including her experiences with her son's brain tumors and the complexities of parenting a child with diverse disabilities. The discussion delves into themes of grief, faith recovery, repeated acceptance of circumstances, and the importance of finding joy amidst adversity.Eps. 17; July 15, 2025 Resources:Kara’s WebsiteThe Special Needs Mom PodcastK...
2025-07-1532 minThis Unexpected LifeFinding Hope In The Unexpected Grief With Paula RomangIn this episode, Carrie M Holt interviews Paula Romang, who shares her journey of motherhood, particularly the challenges and joys of infertility, premature twins, and a son with Lennox-Gastaut Syndrome. Paula discusses her initial expectations, the reality of caregiving, and the profound grief that accompanies the realization of having a special needs child. She emphasizes the importance of faith, the struggle to understand God's plan amidst hardship, and the necessity of finding hope in Christ.Ep. 16, July 8, 2025Resources:Paula Romang’s WebsiteInstagramThriving in the Barren PlaceIf you en...
2025-07-0834 minThis Unexpected LifeBringing Hope, Humor, and Healing to this Unexpected Journey With Amber Pierson & Chelsea KuhnIn this episode, Carrie M Holt interviewed Chelsea Kuhn and Amber Pierson from Making Lemon Cake, who share their journeys as medical mothers. They discuss the challenges and triumphs of parenting children with medical complexities, emphasizing the importance of community, finding joy in small victories, and the role of surrender in their experiences. The conversation underscores the importance of support, understanding, and connection among parents navigating similar paths, while also providing practical advice and encouragement for those in similar situations.Ep. 15: July 1, 2025Resources:Find Chelsea & Amber on InstagramMaking Lemon Cake Website20...
2025-07-0146 minThis Unexpected LifeCreating Family Memories Through Travel With Kristin Faith EvansIn this episode, Carrie Holt interviews Kristin Faith Evans, who shares her journey as a mother of a child with disabilities. Kristin discusses the challenges and joys of parenting, the importance of family travel, and practical tips for families with medically fragile children. She emphasizes the need for a positive mindset, baby steps in travel, and the significance of creating lasting family memories. Ep. 14: June 17, 2025Resources:Disability ParentingHow to Build a Thriving Marriage BookFind Kristin on Instagram or FacebookIf you enjoyed the show, leave a...
2025-06-1732 minThis Unexpected LifeCourageous Travel With Medically Fragile Kids With Erika WeiseIn this episode, Carrie Holt interviews Erika Weise about the challenges and joys of traveling with a child with special needs. They discuss the importance of family travel, the planning involved, and the memories created through these experiences. Erika shares her family's journey, the obstacles they face, and the courage it takes to make travel happen. The conversation emphasizes the need for flexibility, trust, and the value of creating lasting memories as a family.Ep. 13; June 10, 2025Resources:Interview with Erika Weise on Take HeartAccess TracksIf you enjoyed the...
2025-06-1027 minThis Unexpected LifeWhen You Want To Do Big Things For God and The Unexpected Happens With Miranda BaileyToday, we hear from Miranda Bailey, a mother of four whose plans for their family didn’t turn out the way she expected when the country closed to adopting the girl they wanted to bring home, and then their fourth son was born with Holoprosencephaly. Listen as she shares her story of navigating grief, expectations, how jealousy leads to isolation, surrender, and finding purpose when caregiving feels never-ending. Connect with Miranda, as she’s vulnerable and honest about gaining perspective and how to hold on to hope when the unexpected happens. Ep. 12: June 3, 2025Resources:Absol...
2025-06-0331 minThis Unexpected LifeEncouragement For Sharing Your Story in the Unexpected With Mackenzie WaltersIn part two of this interview with Mackenzie Walters, she shares the different types of faith stories, some guardrails for sharing, and how to decide what and when to share with others. She also offers some practical advice on knowing when you’re not ready to tell your story and how our stories are often a guide for others. Episode 11: May 20, 2025Resources:Faith StorytellersBook: Faith StorytellersIf you enjoyed the show, leave a 5-star review! Get my new resource: 5 Practices For Processing Grief Click here if you want to be...
2025-05-2027 minThis Unexpected LifeThe Importance of Sharing Faith Stories With Mackenzie WaltersMackenzie Walters is the author of the book "Faith Storytellers." In this episode, she shares the importance of sharing our faith stories, the vulnerability it requires, and also the power of connection that comes from sharing. Most importantly, she describes how we can find God in the tiny details of our life stories and His presence in the unexpected. Ep 10: May 13, 2025Resources:Faith StorytellersIf you enjoyed the show, leave a 5-star review! Get my new resource: 5 Practices For Processing Grief Click here if you want to be a guest on t...
2025-05-1331 minThis Unexpected LifeWhen You Face The Worst Case Scenario In The Unexpected with Becky DavidsonJoin Carrie today as she interviews Becky Davidson, from Rising Above Ministries, who shares her “modern-day” Job-like story of being a mother to a child with disability, substantial loss, wrestling with God, the key element of lament, and the importance of community and soul care. May 6, 2025Episode 9Resources:By The Brook - Register nowRising Above Ministries Rising Above Dad’s PodcastLectio 365 AppRising Above Podcast with Becky DavidsonIf you enjoyed the show, leave a 5-star review! Get my new resourc...
2025-05-0637 minThis Unexpected LifeExperiencing Denial in The Unexpected GriefDenial is our body’s way of protecting us from the reality of our situations, but sometimes we get stuck there. In this episode, Carrie discusses this stage of grief: some reasons we get stuck, the risks of being stuck in denial, and some practices for moving beyond it. April 22, 2025Resources:Jason Gray: Remind Me You’re HereBy The Brook RegistrationFaith StorytellersBook: Extraordinary KidsVerses Mentioned: II Peter 1:3, John 18If you enjoyed the show, leave a 5-star review! Get my new resource: 5 Practices For Proce...
2025-04-2919 minThis Unexpected LifeWhen We Need to Embrace Rest In the Unexpected Journey of Parenting Children With DisabilitiesApril 15, 2025In part two of this interview with Amy J. Brown, Amy shares how we can find hope in the chaos of caregiving, the power of not overthinking or overplanning, and the importance of slowing down. Through her mentoring and spiritual direction training, she gives practical advice for flourishing in the difficult position of being a caregiving parent and ways she’s found joy.Resources:Amy’s WebsiteAmy’s SubstackAmy’s Writing on Slowing DownIf you enjoyed the show, leave a 5-star review! Get...
2025-04-1521 minThis Unexpected LifeWhen the Unexpected Means Parenting Kids With Trauma With Amy J. BrownApril 8, 2025Parenting children with behavioral issues and trauma can be a difficult position with the added shame and judgment we bring not only on ourselves but also from other people. In this interview, Amy J. Brown shares how she has reframed the narrative around her parenting, some strategies she uses to rest, and how she has found hope in the pause between chaotic events while parenting children with visible or invisible disabilities. Resources:Amy’s WebsiteAmy’s SubstackIf you enjoyed the show, leave a 5-star review! Get my ne...
2025-04-0825 minThis Unexpected LifeWhen The Unexpected Involves Infertility and Adoption With Jen HeadleeIn this episode, Carrie interviews Jen Headlee, whose journey involved infertility, adoption, navigating the NICU, and her son’s many other health challenges. She discusses bargaining with God, guilt over grief, and embracing the reality of her situation. Listen in to Jen’s unexpected life story.If you enjoyed the show, leave a 5-star review! Get my new resource: 5 Practices For Processing Grief 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 conver...
2025-04-0136 minThis Unexpected LifeWhen This Unexpected Life Involves GriefGrief and the grieving cycle is an ongoing part of our journey as special needs parents. Passionately sharing about how we need to expect grief to be a part of this unexpected journey, Carrie explains four types of grief we encounter as disability parents and gives important things to remember, as well as remembering how in every painful experience we encounter, Jesus is with us.Resources:Grief ShareHealing Care MinistriesStory Workshop - Allender CenterThere Was Jesus by Zach Williams/Dolly PartonDark Clouds, Deep Mercy by Mark Vroegop...
2025-03-1825 minThis Unexpected LifeThe Caregiver Support System with Sara ClimeToday my guest Sara Clime shares how her Caregiver Support System was born out of her son’s diagnosis and her own unique giftings to allow mothers to have time for what really matters. Resources:Sara ClimeIf you enjoyed the show, leave a 5-star review! Get my new resource: 5 Practices For Processing Grief 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...
2025-03-1132 min
Rising Above with Becky DavidsonCarrie M. Holt: A look at Psalm 23 as special-needs parentsAbout Carrie
Carrie M. Holt is a wife, homeschooling mom of four, writer, speaker, and podcast host. She is passionate about encouraging special-needs parents to identify, accept, and thrive in the grieving cycle that is an on-going part of the journey.
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2025-03-0437 minThis Unexpected LifeWhy Story Matters In This Unexpected LifeStory draws us in; it packs a powerful punch, can give us courage, and speaks to us in ways that other things do not. In this pilot episode of This Unexpected Life podcast, listen in as Carrie shares the importance of story, her goals for this podcast, and how you can be encouraged in this unexpected journey of raising a child with disabilities, medically complex, mental, emotional, or physical needs.Resources:Story of Jim Elliott, Nate SaintOperation Auca: 60 Years LaterTerry Wardle: Healing Care MinistriesScripture mentioned: Psalm 40:1-3I’ve Wi...
2025-03-0417 minThis Unexpected LifeWhen The Unexpected Leads to a Terminal Diagnosis With Sara ClimeToday on the podcast, my friend and author Sara Clime, from the Take Heart Special Moms Podcast, gets raw and vulnerable while discussing when the unexpected in her life led to her son’s terminal diagnosis, but also a deeper gut-level-honest relationship with God. Resources:Sara ClimeScripture Mentioned: John 2:22If you enjoyed the show, leave a 5-star review! Get my new resource: 5 Practices For Processing Grief Click here if you want to be a guest on the show Carrie’s Facebook or Instagram Find me on Substack My bo...
2025-03-0433 minThis Unexpected LifeThis Unexpected Life TrailerWelcome to This Unexpected Life, a podcast for parents navigating the challenges of raising a child with disabilities or special needs. Here, we share stories of hope, resilience, and messy faith to help you embrace your journey, work through grief, and thrive in your role. Whether you're just starting out or looking for encouragement to keep going, this is a space where your story matters. Join me as we lean into God's promises and find strength in His steadfast love.This Unexpected Life Podcast: Real Stories, Real Hope For This Unexpected JourneyShow Notes:
2025-02-1804 min
Posting Through It006: A Liberal Hulk Hogan feat. Julia Carrie WongJulia Carrie Wong joined the show to discuss her recent exploring comparisons between today’s Democratic Party and Vichy France: a short-lived rump state that capitulated to the German Nazi party in WWII. You can read Julia’s article here: Capitulating to Trump: why people are warning about ‘Vichy’ America.In the wake of recent political events, the trio would also like to encourage those who are able to consider making a donation to The Trevor Project, which fights for the safety and dignity of LGBTQ+ youth. (Click here to donate)Support the show...
2025-02-101h 01
The Mistress Carrie PodcastThe Mistress Carrie ‘Sit Rep’ 11-25-2024This is the Mistress Carrie Situation Report! The 'Sit Rep' your daily Entertainment headlines, Industry Info, and everything ROCK, all in under 5 minutes! 11-25-2024. The Mistress Carrie Podcast, a proud member of the Pantheon Podcast Network!Episode NotesJelly RollAerosmithRATMGhostSammy HagarLou GrammKnocked LooseOpethGary HoltNew films in theaters this weekNew Releases This Week New Music ReleasesUS Rock/Metal Festival List
2024-11-2505 min
The Mistress Carrie PodcastThe Mistress Carrie ‘Sit Rep’ 11-14-2024This is the Mistress Carrie Situation Report! The 'Sit Rep' your daily Entertainment headlines, Industry Info, and everything ROCK, all in under 5 minutes! 11-14-2024. The Mistress Carrie Podcast, a proud member of the Pantheon Podcast Network!See Papa Roach & Rise Against at XFINITY CENTER 9/14/2025 TIX ON SALE 11/14 AT 10AMEpisode NotesLinkin ParkLP StreamGary HoltEric BassSteve VaiRival SonsDuran DuranWednesdayYacht RockScorpionsDave Mustaine
2024-11-1406 min
Take HeartAn Un-Disabled Mindset: Sandy’s Perspective Shift As a Special Needs CaregiverCarrie M. Holt sat down with Sandy Ramsey-Trayvick, author of the new book, "When Dreams Are Disrupted," to talk about Sandy’s mindset journey as she was forced to step into the role of caregiver for her child. When a childhood illness changed the life of her son, it left her feeling helpless. In this episode, she shares what God revealed concerning her choices and how she’s been working with this new set of options God has given her. This conversation with Sandy will inspire you to choose an “un-disabled” mindset as you raise your child with disabilities or specia...
2024-10-1539 min
SpacepodPreparing for something we haven't seen yet with Dr. HoltDr. Carrie Holt talks about how she's getting ready for the Legacy Survey of Space and Time (LSST) by the Vera C. Rubin Observatory. She explains how astronomers are using simulated and real data to prepare in advance of this new data.
2024-10-1323 min
The Student Leadership Podcast"Look for the Outcast" - Carrie BrooksJoin "The Student Leadership Podcast" hosts Eran Holt & Jordan Kolarik as we talk leadership with students.Connect with Carrie HERE.Connect with Eran HERE.Connect with Jordan HERE.Connect with Lead the Generation HERE.Get more info on Lead the Generation at www.leadthegeneration.comWanna go deeper into leadership? Check our YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/EranHoltEran Holt's LinktreeLead The Generation Linktree
2024-05-1423 minThe Student Leadership Podcast"Finding Your Identity" - Carrie BrooksJoin "The Student Leadership Podcast" hosts Eran Holt & Jordan Kolarik as we talk leadership with students.Connect with Carrie HERE.Connect with Eran HERE.Connect with Jordan HERE.Connect with Lead the Generation HERE.Get more info on Lead the Generation at www.leadthegeneration.comWanna go deeper into leadership? Check our YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/EranHoltEran Holt's LinktreeLead The Generation Linktree
2024-04-2922 minTake HeartNavigating Transitions as a CaregiverAs caregivers, we are well acquainted with transitions, and very much so in regard to our children. In this collaborative, Amy, Sara, and Carrie discuss the difficulties of life transitions as parents. They talk about their personal experiences, including making medical decisions and educational changes. The challenges of balancing autonomy and outside influences, going against medical recommendations, and seeking guidance for decisions are all discussed. We hope this episode offers valuable insights and practical tips for you!Key Moments:[2:20] 4 different types of transitions[7:59] Planned our son’s birth…but have learned our lesson[11:25] We don’...
2024-03-0546 minTake HeartThe Power of Perspective: Amy, Carrie, and Sara Share Their Stories The Power of Perspective: Amy, Carrie, and Sara Share Their StoriesSummary: Amy, Carrie and Sara look back at their early years of parenting. They share the stories from the days of early diagnosis and what they thought back then…noting with humor how ridiculous it seemed back then. But looking at the early days has helped them appreciate how far they’ve come, giving them perspective. They discuss the concept of advocating for their child, the desire for control (even though they didn’t have it!) and the worry that they carried. They have found that this life...
2024-01-2337 minTake HeartSmall Steps of Belief with Carrie M. Holt (Replay)In the struggles of daily life, it can be difficult to believe God, His Word, His will, and to relinquish control. In Advent, we see the example of Mary, who chose small steps of obedience and surrender while facing many obstacles. May we follow her pattern and choose belief in small ways each day. This is a replay of Episode 65, which was originally aired on December 14, 2021. The original recording and transcript are available on our website HERE. Key Moments:[0:49] Luke 1:26-30[1:52] An announcement that changed life’s course[4:15] When did Mary begin to belie...
2023-12-1208 minTake HeartWhere Do You Find Comfort?In this week's podcast episode, "Where Do You Find Comfort," Carrie shares the delicate balance between positive and negative emotions while exploring the need for comfort. Carrie talks about the emotional journey of special needs parents, explains some essential truths about comfort and discusses the constant place we can go to find it. Eps. 149; November 14, 2023Key Moments: [02:33] Lessons from "Inside Out"[05:07] The Holy Spirit as the Comforter[08:11] Comfort through other believers[10:12] Identify the lies we are believing[12:19] A prayer for comfortResources:Scriptures Mentioned: John 14:16-17a,c...
2023-11-1414 minTake HeartThe Tension of SufferingCarrie M. Holt dives into the complex emotions and challenges that come with being a special needs mom but even just a person experiencing suffering. Carrie draws parallels between running and suffering, the tension that arises from both experiences. Carrie shares her insights on how past suffering can strengthen our faith and prepare us for future sorrows. She gives some helpful mindset shifts by looking at it from God's perspective and offers strategies for dealing with suffering, including the practice of lament and finding purpose in pain. Ep. 144; October 10, 2023Key Moments:[1:40] The tension of s...
2023-10-1014 minTake HeartHospital Stay Survival: Spiritually and PracticallyCarrie Holt discusses how to spiritually and practically navigate hospital stays with our children. Drawing from her own experiences, Carrie talks about the importance of recognizing the armor we put on in these situations, such as control, withdrawal, and cynicism, and how they can hinder our ability to trust in God. She encourages listeners to invite God into these spaces and remember that He is always with us, even during hospital stays. Carrie also offers practical advice for dealing with unplanned hospital stays and emphasizes the importance of grieving the losses that come with these experiences. She encourages listeners...
2023-09-1216 min
Late to the MoviesCarrieHigh School Movies Month continues with the classic horror/tragedy Carrie! Ben, Bree, Sam, and Vaz go to prom, strategically avoid hitting pigs with a hammer, and get right with a really zonked-out Jesus in Brian De Palma's adaptation of Stephen King's first novel.
Directed by Brian De Palma, written by Lawrence D. Cohen, adapted from Stephen King's 1974 novel of the same name. Starring Sissy Spacek and featuring Piper Laurie, Amy Irving, Nancy Allen, William Katt, P. J. Soles, Betty Buckley, and John Travolta.
2023-09-111h 15Take HeartSpina Bifida & Scars: Carrie Holt's StoryTake Heart’s host, Carrie, shares her personal experience as a mother to a child with Spina Bifida, who has undergone 61 surgeries. She talks about how having a child with a disability can feel like being in a pit and how God sustains and loves us even in the hardest times. She encourages us to let God write our own story, even the painful parts, and to let go of unrealistic expectations and having all the boxes checked. Carrie also shares the reasons why you should write your story down, keep anything that brings you encouragement and allow God to...
2023-05-2314 min
Restoration Home with Jennifer PepitoBalance and Special Needs Mothering with Carrie M. HoltWelcome to Episode 31! Jennifer and Carrie of Take Heart Special Moms talk about the challenges of homeschooling and carrying for special needs children. Whether you have a special needs child or not, this is a beautiful conversation about leaning into God, acknowledging that life is outside of our control, and finding balance, not burdensome rules in what it looks like to homeschool, mother, and be a woman.
Episode sponsored by the Peaceful Press!
The Playful Pioneers Volume 2 is here!!!
Looking for ways to attune and repair with your children? Check out our Ten D...
2023-05-1922 minTake HeartTips For Strengthening Your Marriage While Raising Special Needs Children : An Interview with Kristin & Todd EvansOn this episode of Take Heart Special Mom Podcast, Carrie M Holt welcomes Todd and Kristin Evans, who share their personal struggles in their marriage while navigating their lives as special needs parents. Both Todd and Kristin emphasize the importance of self-care, reflective listening, and validation of emotions between spouses. They stress the need for open communication and finding ways to navigate ongoing grief as a couple. They also reveal practical skills they learned through therapy that can help couples navigate the unique challenges they face. This episode offers valuable insight and support for those struggling with the...
2023-04-2535 min
All Mom Does Podcast with Julie Lyles CarrBeing Equipped with Compassion & Camaraderie with Sara Clime & Carrie M. HoltDo you feel awkward when you encounter someone who is differently-abled? Have your kids asked questions about a child in their Sunday school class and you're not sure how to answer? Julie Lyles Carr welcomes Sara Clime and Carrie M. Holt to the this special mini-series on special needs to equip you with tools, compassion, and comaraderie on The AllMomDoes Podcast.Show Notes: https://bit.ly/3Z6hrQX
2023-03-2232 minTake HeartTherapy Part 2: Why Moms Don’t Go to CounselingIn part two of this three-part series, Amy, Sara and Carrie share about the barriers to therapy and why special needs moms are reluctant to see counselors. There are legitimate reasons, such as cost, lack of knowledge and awareness, and a stigma associated with mental health. Working to break down these barriers, Amy, Sara, and Carrie give practical advice, so moms will pursue the help they need. Ep. 119; March 14, 2023Key Moments:[1:31] Therapy For Kids With Behavioral Issues[3:23] Overcoming the Lie of Failure[5:14] Biggest Barrier to Counseling Was Me![10:45] Trying DifferentTtherapists[12:02] T...
2023-03-1414 minLate to the MoviesAliensBig Jim Winter continues! Our month-long journey through James Cameron's filmography goes interstellar with 1986's Aliens! Ben, Noah, Robbie, and Will discuss the classic sci-fi action/thriller.
Written and directed by James Cameron, starring Sigourney Weaver, and featuring Michael Biehn, Paul Reiser, Lance Henriksen, and Carrie Henn.
2023-02-131h 41Take HeartA Different Perspective On Perseverance with Amy, Carrie, & Sara.The messages we hear about perseverance can feel so cliche when in reality, it can be challenging to persist through hard times. On this episode of Take Heart, Sara, Carrie, and Amy discuss their stories and perspectives of perseverance with children with disabilities, how to find a balance to persevere longer and what they have learned about it along their motherhood journeys. This is an insightful and refreshing conversation about how to know when to persevere and when to put in helpful boundaries, among other practical and life-giving advice! Ep. 112; January 24, 2023Show Takeaways: [5:50] Consequences of...
2023-01-2440 minTake HeartAvoiding Temporary Fixes by Carrie M. HoltDid you know that the desire for a good, calm life has been built into us by God? Sometimes that desire seems easier to reach when we cope with temporary pleasures. What do we do when we are tired, traumatized, and feel like we're done with life? Listen to this episode of Take Heart as Carrie speaks to the small ways we persevere with Jesus instead of trying to fill that need ourselves and what the big picture looks like with God in the center. January 10, 2023; Ep. 110Show Links:Resilient by John EldredgeDon’t Lose...
2023-01-1012 minTake HeartWrestling With Hope by Carrie M. Holt (Replay)Sometimes hope requires us to wrestle with grief over the way things currently are and the desire of what we want them to be. Listen in today as Carrie shares her thoughts about wrestling with hope. December 13, 2022Key Topics/Timestamps:[2:09] Facing the unknowns [6:38] Four things to remember about hope[13:55] A reminder from Ann VoskampEpisode Links & ResourcesEpisode 18: Why Your Story Makes it Hard to Hope by Adam Young The Place We Find Ourselves (Choose episode 18)Scripture mentioned: Phil 4:5-7; Isaiah 26:3; James 4:2: I Thessalonians 5:17Unwrapping the Greatest Gift: A F...
2022-12-1315 minTake HeartMisconceptions About Rest with Amy, Carrie, & SaraToday’s collaborative episode dives into the topic of rest. It's no secret that special needs moms are tired, not just physically but emotionally and spiritually too. We often deny our limits or go full speed for so long that we don't even recognize our need to stop. We assume this hurried pace is normal. Amy, Carrie, and Sara address five common misconceptions about rest and some ways to combat the hurried pace.November 22, 2022; Ep. 108Resources Mentioned:Parker Palmer, Let Your Life SpeakShow Takeaways: [2:37] I’ll have time to rest later...
2022-11-2237 minTake HeartHow to Find Lasting Rest with Carrie M. HoltThis month on the podcast, we are talking about rest. You may think, how can I ever experience rest as a special needs mom? It may seem impossible. The type of rest Carrie is talking about is where, as Sally Breedlove writes, “we are meant to flow from a solid garden core of spacious inner quiet.” This comes from a connection with Jesus and gives us the resilience we need when hard things come our way. It's something that she’s personally been working on lately. Listen in!November 8, 2022; Ep. 106Show Links:Benevolent Detachment Isaiah...
2022-11-0812 minTake HeartInviting Him In: An Invitation to Intimacy with Kerrah FabacherWhat happens when we wrap our identity around things we can’t control? What could our relationship with God mean for our identity? On this episode of Take Heart, Amy J. Brown and Carrie M. Holt sat down with counselor, coach, writer, and host of the “Be Known” podcast, Kerrah Fabacher. They discuss their very real experiences with misplaced identity and Kerrah gives some invaluable tips about finding a safe friend to open up with. October 25, 2022; Ep. 104Show Links:Kerrah FabacherOne-Minute Pause AppShow Takeaways: [4:25] Learn about the key characteristics you should look for...
2022-10-2534 minTake HeartThe Foundation of Our Identity: By Carrie M. HoltWho are we, really? What labels have we allowed to define us? What would it mean to trade these labels for something better? This month, we are talking about identity. In this episode, Carrie Holt shares about her own struggles with identity, especially as a mom and the very practical ways that she redirects comparison. Listen in to be encouraged in your own struggle with misplaced identity.October 11, 2022; Ep. #102Show Links:You Are Special by Max LucadoScriptures Mentioned: Isaiah 43:1; II Cor. 10:12Show Takeaways: [4:07] Listen in as Carrie shares about the labels that w...
2022-10-1113 minTake HeartThe Story of Take Heart with Amy, Carrie, and SaraWelcome back to the third season of the Take Heart Podcast. It’s our 100th episode and we are celebrating! As we kick off this new season, we wanted to start by going back to the beginning of how Take Heart came to be, and share with you the reason we do this work, and the importance of our name Take Heart. In this episode all three of us our coming together to talk about how this podcast, Take Heart came to be. We thought it would be fun to take you back to the beginning of how...
2022-09-2741 minTake HeartImportant Questions by Carrie M. Holt100th Episode Giveaway. Want to join? Text: takeheart to 66866 and follow the instructions.Welcome back to the third season of the Take Heart Podcast. As we kick off this new season, we wanted to start by going back to the beginning of how Take Heart came to be, and share with you the reason we do this work, and the importance of our name Take Heart. In this episode, Carrie walks us through the verse in Mark 10:49, and what it means to be of good courage or cheer. Sep 13, 2022; Ep. #98Sho...
2022-09-1312 minTake HeartA Well-Nourished Soul by Sara, Amy, and Carrie Discouragement is a powerful tool the devil uses to block the light of hope from God. In today’s collaborative, Sara, Amy, and Carrie talk about how the devil uses this sneaky tool in our lives, how to recognize it, the pitfalls, and some ways to turn toward encouragement.May 24, 2022; Ep. 87Timestamps & Key Topics:0:00- Intro1:25- Spiritual Warfare7:42- Reoccuring Discouragement16:36- Addressing Discouragement25:57- Nourishing the Soul30:12- Encouraging Others32:05- Encouragement Challenge33:36- Poem & ClosingEpisode Links & Resources:Scripture mentioned: John 8:12, Romans 8:28Disarm Discouragement! By Worthy DevotionsDon’t Quit by Edgar A. Gues...
2022-05-2435 minTake HeartCasting Your Cares On Him by Carrie M. HoltAs special needs mothers, we fight the battle of discouragement on a daily basis. In today’s episode, Carrie discusses several tools we can use to safeguard our hearts from losing hope: rest, remembering, and filling. Most importantly, she reminds us that God cares and his desire is for us to cast our cares on him.May 10, 2022; Ep. 85Timestamps & Key Topics:0:00- Intro1:31- Fighting Daily Battles3:28- Rest4:30- Remember God’s Care6:42- Focus Your Mind9:16- Casting Cares on Him13:04- Prayer14:33- OutroEpisode Links & Resources:Scripture mentioned: Matthew 6; I Pet...
2022-05-1015 min
The Rare Life84: Grieving Our Child’s Medical Complexity w/ Carrie M. HoltGrief is something that most parents of disabled/medically complex children experience. And as Carrie shares in this episode, it never goes away. Instead, it shifts and evolves.
She also explains how difficult it was to process her grief in the early days of her son’s life (15 years ago) when she was in survival mode and offers comfort and advice to those currently in that situation.
We discuss what exactly it is that we’re grieving, and how she has helped her son process his own grief.
Links:
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2022-03-3142 minTake Heart"A Good Mom Always"…by Amy, Sara, and CarrieAll moms struggle with believing lies about their motherhood: who they should and shouldn’t be, what they should or shouldn’t feel or do. In this episode, Amy, Carrie and Sara dive into some of the lies special needs moms believe, ways to recognize them, and how to replace them with the truth.March 22, 2022; Ep. 78Timestamps & Key Topics:0:00- Intro1:24- The “Perfect” Mom6:25- Good Moms Wouldn’t…11:03- Connection Lies16:05- Self-Care Lies23:08- Self-Sufficiency Lies30:01- Recognizing Lies35:18- Closing PrayerEpisode Links & Resources:Episodes 38-41 on GuiltScripture mentioned: Psalm 25:4-5...
2022-03-2236 minTake HeartUnanswered Prayers by Carrie M. HoltWhat do you do when God doesn’t answer your prayers the way you desire? Sometimes these situations cause us to believe lies about God. In today’s episode, through Carrie’s personal story you will learn how to recognize the lies and what to do about them.March 8, 2922; Ep. 76Timestamps & Key Topics:0:00- Intro1:30- Spiritual Battle2:40- Is God Good?6:38- Recognizing Lies8:51- Resources10:15- Combatting The Lies13:28- Meet You In Your Grief16:42- Reflection Episode Links & Resources:Scripture mentioned: Ephesians 6:12; Romans 8:31-33The Place We Find Ourselves: Warfare Part 3: Agree...
2022-03-0819 minLate to the MoviesThe Matrix ResurrectionsThe long-awaited sequel film gets an extremely short-awaited sequel pod, as the Late to the Movies crew goes back to where it all started, back to the Matrix... Resurrections (2021). Ben, Cory, Noah, and Robbie talk about the latest iteration of the franchise, still starring Keanu Reeves and Carrie-Anne Moss, and directed by Lana Wachoswki.
2021-12-2753 minLate to the MoviesThe Matrix TrilogyIn Part 1 of Late to the Movies' Matrix double header, Ben, Cory, Noah, and Robbie plug in to the original Matrix trilogy (1999-2003), starring Keanu Reeves, Carrie-Anne Moss, and Laurence Fishburne, and directed by the Wachowskis. They discuss the classic that kicked off the franchise and the weird and (maybe!) wonderful sequels it spawned, Reloaded and Revolutions.
2021-12-271h 55Take HeartSmall Steps of Belief with Carrie M. HoltIn the struggles of daily life it can be difficult to believe God, His Word, His will and relinquish control. In advent, we see the example of Mary, who chose small steps of obedience and surrender while facing many obstacles. May we follow her pattern and choose belief in small ways each day.December 14, 2021; Ep. 65Timestamps & Key Topics:0:23- Intro1:07- Luke 1:26-302:01- Announcements5:19- Struggles to Believe6:49- Small Steps8:41- A Prayer9:15- OutroEpisode Links & Resources:Scripture mentioned: Luke 1:26-30, 38, 78-79If you enjoyed our podcast, please...Get our free...
2021-12-1410 minTake HeartRefocusing Your Gaze When Confronted by Fear with Carrie M. HoltFear can be paralyzing and cause us to say or do things we normally wouldn’t. There are many times in scripture where the phrase “take heart” or a variation of the phrase is written. Carrie reminds us of some strategies to move our focus from fear to Jesus.November 9, 2021; Ep. 60Timestamps & Key Topics:0:20- Intro1:19- Take Heart6:30- Focus on the Now8:30- Focus on the Who10:53- Focus on the Next Step13:11- Focus on the Future16:04- Encouragement From John16:59- OutroEpisode Links & Resources:Scripture mentioned: Matthew 6:27, 14:27; Mark 10:49-52; Joh...
2021-11-0917 minTake HeartPositive and Negative Comparison with Carrie M. HoltIt doesn’t take much effort to look at others’ situations and feel despair, envy, and discontentment when we judge their circumstances as easier than our own. In this episode, Carrie shares our common struggles with jealousy, and encouragement on how to positively compare. October 12, 2021; Ep. 56Timestamps & Key Topics:0:22- Intro1:04- Defining Terms3:03- Jealousy Struggles5:59- Grieve The Hard7:07- Positively Compare10:19- Source of Worth11:39- Stay in Your Own Lane12:55- Philippians 415:07- OutroEpisode Links & Resources:Scriptures Mentioned: II Corinthians 10:4-5; Philippians 4:4-13, 19-20, 23. Episode 40: Guilt with Sara Clime (Who We A...
2021-10-1215 minTake HeartHow to Advocate at the Hospital with Carrie M HoltIt can be a difficult balance between fight or flight when it comes to advocating for our children with special needs. With Christ in us, we can learn to fight for what our child needs, or rest and wait. Today, Carrie reminds us of nine practical tips for advocating, the greatest to remember is that Jesus is our advocate. He will equip you with what you need.September 14, 2021; Ep. 52Timestamps & Key Topics:0:19- Intro1:07- Fight or Flight?3:58- The Golden Rule4:50- Assume Best Intentions5:56- Be Humble7:03- Use “I” Statements8:36- Don’t Burn...
2021-09-1420 minTake HeartCyclical Grief of Special Needs ParentingThe grief of a special needs mom is unique, isolating, overwhelming, and continuous.Today, Amy, Sara, and Carrie discuss how it changes throughout the special needs journey, practices for processing it, mindsets for dealing with its constancy, and important hopeful reminders how God is near to the brokenhearted. April 27, 2021Timestamps & Key Topics:0:20- Intro1:03- A Unique Grief3:50- Greatest Griefs9:48- Isolating Grief11:48- Changing Grief19:30- Grief Practices27:05- Hope in Grief32:26- Closing Prayer33:41- OutroEpisode Links & ResourcesBeauty Will Rise Album by Steven Curtis ChapmanTrial and Triumph Album by I am They...
2021-04-2734 minTake HeartEight Practices For Processing Grief In Special Needs ParentingGrief is an ongoing part of the special needs parenting journey. Today, Carrie reminds us that it’s important not to rank grief, what grief looks like, and how God is sovereign through all types of loss. Her eight practices for processing grief as a special needs parent will greatly encourage you. April 13, 2021 Timestamps & Key Topics:0:20- Intro1:05- Grieving Cycle3:14- Personal Story6:01- Grief Observations7:30- Four Practices 11:16- Four More Practices14:07- Being Kind to Yourself16:01- God of all Comfort18:24- Blessing19:30- OutroEpisode Links & ResourcesExtraordinary Kids: Nurturing and Champ...
2021-04-1320 minTake HeartFour Lessons About GriefAs special needs moms we are familiar with grief. We have the big losses that change our lives in a moment and the little griefs we often fail to recognize. This week, Amy shares her experience with grief and the lessons she has learned. April 6, 2021Timestamps & Key Topics:0:20- Intro1:02- Griefs: Big & Small2:59- Two Losses5:01- Acknowledge It7:06- Allow It9:35- Pay Attention11:03- Abide12:43- BlessingEpisode Links...
2021-04-0615 minTake HeartDealing With the Emotions of a New NormalToday’s collaborative episode uses Psalm 23 as a reminder of the importance of crying out to God and grieving loss and change in our lives as special needs moms. Amy, Sara, and Carrie also discuss our constant companion, adjusting to the new normal of invisible disabilities, and the significance of giving yourself grace. You don’t want to miss this episode. January 16, 2021Timestamps & Key Topics:0:23: Intro1:05: Crying out3:37: Honest with God 7:47: Don’t Wait for Real Life10:53: Constant Companion 14:00: Wheelchair Ramp18:43: Reminders23:40: Pay Attention 27:38: Give Yourself Grace30:00: Psalm 23Episode Links & ResourcesScriptures mentioned in this podcast: P...
2021-01-2632 minTake HeartSurrendering to God's PlansAmy, Sara, and Carrie wrap up this month on hope discussing how Mary, the mother of Jesus, is an example of surrender. They will encourage you to allow others to help, focus on answered prayers, and hold onto hope by remembering who Jesus is.December 22, 2020Timestamps & Key Topics0:20: Intro1:02: How to Surrender7:53: Holding on to Hope10:32: Connection16:10: Rest & Help17:40: Answered Prayers23:00: Asking for Help28:12: Who Jesus Is29:58: OutroEpisode Links & ResourcesJust Give Me Jesus by Anne Graham LotzIf you enjoyed our podcast, please...Subscribe to our newsletter on the Take Heart...
2020-12-2230 minTake HeartWhat Does It Mean to Hope?Sometimes hope requires us to wrestle with our current circumstances and the expectation of desiring them to improve. Listen in today as Carrie shares her some practical tips on wrestling with hope. December 8, 2020Key Topics/Timestamps:0:22: Intro1:04: Defining Hope2:09: Feeling like Mary5:36: Wrestling with Hope6:38: Honest7:31: Offer9:20: Peace & Trust11:45: Expectant13:55: God is For You14:54: OutroEpisode Links & ResourcesEpisode 18: Why Your Story Makes it Hard to Hope by Adam Young The Place We Find Ourselves (Choose episode 18)Scripture mentioned: Phil 4:5-7; Isaiah 26:3; James 4:2: I Thessalonians 5:17Unwrapping the Greatest Gift: A Family Celebration of Christmas by Ann Voskam...
2020-12-0815 minTake HeartThe Practice of GratitudeJoin us today as Amy, Carrie, and Sara discuss how they work at the practice of gratitude through being still, reflective evaluation, and living small.Date: November 24, 2020Key Topics/Time Stamps:0:26: Intro1:00: The Gratitude Bucket3:28: Lament the Hard6:45: A Gracious Response7:27: Be Still9:49: A Practice13:24: Live Small16:15: Evaluate19:02: His Plans20:49: Daily Examine22:13: Prayer of Blessing23:30: OutroEpisode Links & ResourcesThe Ministry of Ordinary Places: Waking up to God’s Goodness Around YouThe Daily ExamenIf you enjoyed our podcast, please...Review and like us on Apple Podcasts Share us with others from wherever you li...
2020-11-2424 minTake HeartGratitude Is About Changing Our PerspectiveCarrie shares with us how she began to learn the practice of gratefulness during a difficult hospital stay and what that has taught her about God and how He provides.November 9, 2020Key Topics/Timestamps:0:21: Intro1:00: A Virtue2:14: A Heavenly Perspective4:04: God’s “ask”5:00: A Practice & A Discipline9:02: After Lament10:26: The Why11:33: The How12:52: Psalms of Gratitude13:47: OutroEpisode Links & ResourcesNichole Nordeman's album Woven and SpunIn This Mountain by Jan KaronOne Line a Day: A Five Year Memory BookIf you enjoyed our podcast, please...Visit our new websiteReview and like us on Apple Podcas...
2020-11-1015 min
The Ben and Walker Movie ShowHereditary with Carrie McBride"Is there something on your mind?"
Join Ben Davis and Carrie McBride as they discuss the pressure cooker of a movie, Hereditary.
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2020-10-2657 minTake HeartThe Illusion of ControlSummary: Today Carrie M. Holt shares her struggles with changing her mind-set around control. She gives some practical tips for relinquishment and how she’s learned to trust God when life feels out of control.October 13, 2020Key Topics/Time Stamps:0:20- Intro1:00- Control3:33- Living under God’s Mercy4:51- Relinquishment7:30- Feeling Out of Control9:57- Closing Blessing10:41- OutroEpisode Links & Resources:Dean Fulks’s Message: Now Playing Decades: Back To The FutureA New Kind of Normal: Hope-Filled Choices When Life Turns Upside Down by Carol KentScriptures Mentioned: 2 Peter 1:3, Lamentations...
2020-10-1311 minTake HeartWould You Change Your Child's Diagnosis: A Collaborative With Amy, Carrie, & SaraToday on our podcast, we discuss our faith journeys and the question: Would you go back and change your child’s diagnosis? Listen as we tackle that tough question and more.Ep. 8; September 29, 2020Key Topics/Time Stamps:0:20 Intro1:01 Question about Faith1:35 Doubts About What Kind of “God” He is.2:30 Trying Harder to Make it Better4:05 Proving My Faithfulness5:55 Faith Firmed7:48 Fear Always Lies9:47 God is Faithful Even When We Can’t Feel It12:00 Dismissing Perfection14:15 Finding God in the Dark16:15 Trusting God18:12 Gratitude Journal21:36 Prayer for Doubts23:15 OutroLinks + Resources From This EpisodeEvery Moment Holy by Douglas Kaine M...
2020-09-2923 minTake HeartHow To Have Faith When Life Isn’t Fair by Carrie M. HoltSummary: Where do you turn when troubles pile up on you when your life is already difficult? What do you do when it feels like God is looking the other way? In this episode, Carrie reminds us that God’s faithfulness does not depend on our feelings or our situation. He is weaving a beautiful tapestry out of our mess even when we can’t see it. *Please note: The song mentioned in this podcast is “I Will Trust You” by Steven Curtis ChapmanEp. 6; September 15, 2020Key Topics/Time Stamps:0:20Intro1:04Unbucket List3:05B...
2020-09-1510 minTake HeartCoping With a Child’s DiagnosisThis week Amy, Sara, and Carrie collaborate together to bring you some hope and encouragement in handling your child’s diagnosis. A diagnosis can be like a heavy backpack, but oftentimes we add more things than we need. Listen in, as they share what they added to make it heavier, what they’ve learned to take out, and how you can find rest.September 1, 2020Diagnosis 101 Collaboration: Episode 004Key Topics/Time Stamps:0:25 Welcome1:02 A Heavy Backpack1:51 Control3:40 Diagnosis Fog7:42 Hidden Disability10:27 Loneliness with a Diagnosis11:30 Encouragement and Rest16:02 Advice for a New Diagnosis20:40 Prayer and Conclusi...
2020-09-0122 minTake HeartThe Unexpected: A Prenatal Diagnosis with Carrie M. HoltWhen you face a life-altering diagnosis with your children, you experience grief and denial. In this episode, Carrie M Holt explores the news of her third son's diagnosis, the grieving journey it began, and some practical tips for dealing with that grief. September 1, 2020Diagnosis 101: Episode 002Key Topics/Time Stamps:0:18 Introduction1:03 Carrie's Diagnosis Story5:48 Two kinds of life7:00 Choose joy8:19 Grief9:12 A Blessing10:11 Outro Links + Resources From This Episode“Practice Your Life” Episode 123, by Emily P. Freeman: The Next Right ThingFive Steps to Re-claim Hope After a Life-altering Diagnosis @saraclime.comCharles Surgeon Sermon...
2020-09-0111 min