Shows
Indispensable PeopleThe Church is the Barrier, Not the DisabilitySend us a textTracy Corll tackles the challenging reality that over 80% of Americans with disabilities are not inside church walls. She explores intellectual disabilities, their impact on daily life, and how churches can break down barriers to become truly inclusive communities where everyone can know, grow in, and serve Christ.• Understanding intellectual disabilities as below-average intelligence that impacts life skills before age 18• Discussing how intellectual disabilities can affect learning, communication, problem-solving, and coping abilities• Exploring accessibility beyond physical accommodations to include sensory considerations• Emphasizing that attitudinal barriers in the church often present...2025-05-0914 minIndispensable PeopleNo Pity Placements: Finding True Purpose in Disability MinistrySend us a textWe explore the influential model of disability ministry that places leadership in the hands of individuals with disabilities, recognizing their God-given gifts rather than creating token positions. This episode examines how true inclusion means empowering disabled individuals to serve according to their spiritual gifts and talents.• The influential model values disabled individuals as equally gifted for leadership as any congregation member• True inclusive ministry avoids "pity placements" and instead identifies and develops genuine spiritual gifts• Biblical foundation found in Jesus's interaction with the woman with the issue of blood (Matthe...2025-05-0213 minIndispensable PeopleCreating Five-Star ExperiencesSend us a textExplore ten practical strategies for welcoming and including individuals with autism in church settings, drawing inspiration from Jesus' personalized approach to ministry and Barbara Newman's book "Autism in Your Church."• Creating a "five-star experience" for individuals with autism requires personalized approaches• Jesus modeled individualized ministry by meeting different people at their specific points of need• Gathering and sharing information about individual needs is foundational for successful inclusion• Understanding sensory processing differences helps accommodate both sensory-seeking and sensory-avoiding individuals• Coming alongside individuals who struggle with communication helps identify potential...2025-04-2518 minIndispensable PeopleThe World Says Self-Reliance, God Says Faith Through BrokennessSend us a textWe explore how God uses our brokenness to display His grace, challenging cultural narratives that equate value with ability. The gospel flips worldly expectations upside down, revealing that weakness is precisely where God's strength becomes most evident.• Over 65 million Americans have disabilities (25% of population), yet 80% aren't in church• The world measures worth through ability and self-sufficiency, while God defines success differently• "The opposite of faith is not doubt but self-reliance"• Personal reflection on questioning my own value after COVID limitations• Accepting our creator and embracing our brokenness allows God...2025-04-1815 minIndispensable PeopleWhen Your Sibling Has a Disability: The Hug and Slug RelationshipSend us a textSiblings of people with disabilities navigate complex emotional terrain while developing extraordinary character strengths through their family experiences. Over 4 million Americans are brothers and sisters of people with developmental disabilities, forming a significant yet often overlooked population.• The sibling relationship when disability is involved can be described as "ambivalence" - a heightened version of the normal "hugging and slugging" dynamic• Siblings frequently experience guilt, jealousy, frustration, and feelings of isolation that need validation and safe spaces for expression• Churches must be careful not to make siblings invisible while focusing on dis...2025-04-1119 minIndispensable PeopleFrom Church Doors to Discipleship: The Journey of Inclusive Spiritual DevelopmentSend us a textSpiritual development is essential for believers with disabilities, requiring intentional discipleship processes that adapt strategies while maintaining the same goal of becoming more Christ-like. Tracy explores how churches can create environments where every person has the opportunity to know Christ, grow in Him, and serve Him with their unique gifts, regardless of ability.• Over 65 million Americans have a disability (25% of population), yet over 80% are not in churches• Spiritual development takes place as believers become more like Jesus through intentional discipleship• Building a disability ministry starts with creating physical accessibility (bathro...2025-04-0417 minIndispensable PeopleBeyond Healing and Hugs: How the Bible Calls Us to Empower Those with DisabilitiesSend us a textExamining the biblical framework for disability ministry reveals that God expects meaningful inclusion and empowerment of all believers in the church community regardless of ability. Scripture commands us to recognize that every person is created in God's image with gifts to contribute to the body of Christ.• 25% of Americans have disabilities, yet 80% aren't in our churches• The Bible teaches that people with disabilities are part of the body of Christ with purpose and value• Every believer belongs to the body of Christ with gifts to use in ministry• People w...2025-03-2815 minIndispensable PeopleBeyond Words: The Hidden Language of InclusionSend us a textCommunication barriers often prevent people with disabilities from fully participating in church, despite making up 25% of the population. We must transform our perceptions and practices to ensure the gospel is accessible to everyone through effective, respectful communication.• Communication requires more from the listener than the speaker• Poor speaking can be overcome by good listening but inattentive listeners miss even great speakers• People with disabilities face barriers in education, healthcare, employment and churches• Communication barriers often lead to incorrect assumptions about intelligence• Assuming competence is critical when interacting with peopl...2025-03-2119 minIndispensable PeopleHard ConversationsSend us a textUnderstanding the complexities of disability within faith communities requires honest conversation and a rejection of pity. Exploring tough questions, like the presence of disabilities in heaven, prompts us to consider how we honor the worth and identity of those we serve. • The importance of hard conversations in faith contexts • Compassion as a critical element in disability ministry • Setting appropriate expectations for individuals with disabilities • In-depth discussion on whether disabilities will exist in heaven • Emphasizing identity beyond physical limitations and conditions • The need for continued dialogue and education in faith2025-03-1418 minIndispensable PeopleLove Languages for Deeper Connections in Special Needs FamiliesSend us a textThis episode explores the profound impact of love languages in the context of special needs, focusing on how tailored expressions of love can strengthen relationships between caregivers and individuals with disabilities. Understanding and adapting to unique love languages fosters emotional security, enhancing connection and empathy. • Exploring love languages and their relevance to families with disabilities • The importance of recognizing personal love language preferences • Emotional needs of children with disabilities and love expression • Practical examples of demonstrating love through shared activities • Encouragement for caregivers to adapt their expressions of love •...2025-03-0719 minIndispensable PeopleNurturing Young Hearts to IncludeSend us a textThis episode emphasizes the importance of teaching children and teens about inclusion and understanding of disabilities. We explore strategies for fostering empathy and compassion within church communities while highlighting the need for a collective effort to create inclusive spaces for all.• Importance of teaching inclusion to kids and teens • Initiatives that promote disability awareness • Incorporating the gospel into conversations about abilities • Annual training opportunities for communities • Engaging kids to understand their peers’ experiences • Viewing individuals through the lens of God's love • Cultivating advocates against bullying and isolation • B...2025-02-2815 minIndispensable PeopleFaith and AutismSend us a textThe episode explores the complex realities of autism through the lens of faith and understanding, emphasizing the importance of seeing beyond labels and embracing the whole person. Conversations on brokenness, parenting, masking, and personal identity illustrate the journey toward self-acceptance while fostering compassion in our communities.• The idea of autism as more than just a label • Challenging the notion of brokenness in relation to disabilities • The impact of masking on individuals with autism • Importance of recognizing and nurturing personal identity in parenting • Understanding differing perspectives through literature and personal s...2025-02-2124 minIndispensable PeopleChurch Experiences for Families with DisabilitiesSend us a textCreating an inclusive church environment is essential for families impacted by disabilities. The episode highlights the emotional, social, and financial challenges these families face and shares practical strategies for churches to foster intentional inclusivity through accessibility, programming, and community engagement.• Exploring the challenges faced by families with disabled members • Higher rates of poverty and food insecurity among disabled families • Importance of physical accessibility in church spaces • Sensory accommodations for individuals with sensory processing challenges • Strategies for inclusive youth and adult ministries • The role of respite nights in providing supp...2025-02-1416 minIndispensable PeopleFostering Belonging Through Sensory RoomsSend us a textThis episode dives into the critical need for sensory accommodations in churches, focusing on the creation of sensory rooms to enhance inclusivity for congregation members with sensory sensitivities. We discuss the impact of sensory overload, considerations for environmental adjustments, and practical strategies for fostering a welcoming worship experience.• Importance of understanding sensory needs in church settings • Sensory overload challenges faced by individuals • Various types of sensory sensitivities to consider • Strategies to accommodate sensory needs in worship • Designing effective sensory rooms for church environments • Practical, cost-effective solutions for creating sens...2025-02-0717 minIndispensable PeopleVisual Strategies for ChurchesSend us a textThis episode emphasizes the importance of visual aids in creating an inclusive environment within the church for individuals with disabilities. By discussing practical tools such as visual schedules, large print resources, and Braille materials, we explore how these adaptations can enhance accessibility and engagement for all congregants.• Importance of visual aids for enhancing church inclusivity • Benefits of visual schedules for those with disabilities • Large print and Braille resources for visually impaired congregants • Effective use of projectors and clear fonts for communication • Training volunteers to understand the significance of visual aids...2025-01-3115 minIndispensable PeopleFidget Tools for Enhanced Focus and InclusivitySend us a textImagine a world where traditional expectations of attentiveness are flipped on their head. Join me, Tracie Corll, as I share personal stories and insights into the transformative impact of fidget tools for individuals with ADHD and autism. Through heartfelt anecdotes, I'll take you on a journey through spaces like my church, where embracing unique needs redefines what it means to respect and be attentive. Discover how these tools are not mere toys but essential aids for enhancing focus, managing stress, and connecting with one's faith across all age groups.Explore the...2025-01-2412 minIndispensable PeopleCreating Calm Down Spaces for Inclusive MinistrySend us a textImagine a world where every church has a quiet refuge designed to help individuals manage their emotions and sensory overload. In this dynamic episode of Indispensable People, I, Tracie Corll, recount a humorous tale from my preschool teaching days, where a strategic self-imposed timeout turned chaos into calm. This personal story sets the stage for a deeper conversation on the importance of creating calm-down corners in church settings, particularly for individuals with disabilities. By transforming chaos into clarity, these dedicated spaces ensure that everyone, regardless of their needs, can find peace and participate...2025-01-1713 minIndispensable PeopleThe Sunday Morning StruggleSend us a textWhat happens when the tranquility of a weekend morning clashes with the chaos of getting a family, especially one with disabilities, ready for church? Join me, Tracy Corll, as I share a personal journey through the Sunday morning challenges that many families face. From wrestling with ADHD and sensory sensitivities to overcoming the physical barriers that come with disabilities, we explore the intricate dance of morning routines, wardrobe battles, and social anxieties that can make Sundays feel like a battleground rather than a sanctuary.Together, we'll tackle the critical need for...2025-01-1013 minIndispensable PeopleCreating Accomodations for Spiritual GrowthSend us a textDiscover how to transform your church into a more inclusive and welcoming environment for individuals with disabilities. Learn actionable strategies that are both practical and cost-effective, like integrating frequent breaks, utilizing fidget tools such as stress balls, and embracing flexible seating and standing options. These small yet impactful changes can make a significant difference, allowing everyone to participate and engage more fully in church services. By varying physical activities and seating arrangements, churches can prevent monotony and cater to diverse learning needs, ensuring that each member feels valued and included.Join...2025-01-0314 minIndispensable PeopleComplex Functions of Challenging BehaviorsSend us a textCan understanding the intricacies of human behavior transform your church community? Join me, Tracie Corll, as we embark on an enlightening journey through the complex functions of challenging behaviors within ministry settings. We promise you'll gain valuable insights into sensory, escape, and attention-seeking behaviors, learning how to create more inclusive and supportive environments for everyone involved. Discover when accommodating sensory behavior is more beneficial than attempting to change it, and explore strategies for helping individuals manage escape behaviors through breaks or task division. Through real-world examples, we guide you in responding effectively to...2024-12-2715 minIndispensable PeopleEmpowering Transitions with Compassion and CareSend us a textManaging transitions for individuals with special needs can be a daunting task, especially within church settings. Have you ever wondered how to make these transitions smoother and less anxiety-inducing? Join me, Tracie Corll, as we promise to equip you with effective strategies to create a predictable environment using visual supports, advanced notice, and transition objects. These tools are designed to foster a sense of security for those on the autism spectrum or with ADHD, helping them navigate changes with confidence and ease.Beyond easing transitions, we also address the broader goal...2024-12-2016 minIndispensable PeopleChurch for All Attention SpansSend us a textImagine creating a place of worship where everyone—regardless of their challenges with attention—can thrive and connect meaningfully. What if doodling during a sermon or taking a body break were not seen as distractions but as vital tools for engagement? Join me, Tracie Corll as I explore innovative strategies to foster an inclusive environment in church ministries, especially for those navigating ADHD or other attention-related challenges. From busy boxes filled with Legos to offering alternative seating options, we share practical ways to transform services without turning them into mere entertainment, allowing each indi...2024-12-1315 minIndispensable PeopleEmbracing Self-Stimulatory Behaviors in Ministry for Inclusive EngagementSend us a textUnlock the secrets of stimming within ministry settings with host Tracie Corll as we shed light on a topic often shrouded in misunderstanding. Ever wondered how something as simple as foot-tapping or hair-twirling can play a pivotal role in emotional regulation and sensory management? Discover the diverse range of self-stimulatory behaviors and learn why they are crucial for both neurotypical and neurodivergent individuals. This episode promises to bridge the gap between sensory needs and active participation, offering insights into creating environments where everyone can feel included and engaged, regardless of their unique ways...2024-12-0621 minIndispensable PeopleGospel Accessiblity and Indispensable PeopleSend us a textCould our churches be missing out on the indispensable gifts of over 65 million Americans living with disabilities? Join Tracie Corll as she unpacks her heartfelt journey through disability ministry, sharing her experiences as both a missionary and a pastor facing personal health challenges. Tracie passionately argues for a gospel that is accessible to everyone, emphasizing the biblical truth that every person has a purpose. Her new book, "Gospel Accessibility and the Indispensable People," serves as a roadmap for churches ready to embrace inclusion and compassion, ensuring that all members of the body of...2024-11-2222 minIndispensable PeopleSupporting Believers with Differing Processing Speeds in MinistrySend us a textUnlock the secrets to supporting individuals with a differing processing speed as Tracie Corll guides you through an episode of Indispensable People that promises to challenge misconceptions and build a more inclusive community. Have you ever wondered how slow processing speed differs from ADHD and learning disabilities? Learn practical strategies designed to foster patience and compassion in our fast-paced world. We'll help you understand the distinctive characteristics of slow processing speed and share effective ways to minister to those who experience it, like maintaining consistency and using visual schedules.Join us...2024-11-1516 min