Rising Above with Becky Davidson

In His Own Words - Toby Holt

Respite For Your Mind KIDS - https://subsplash.com/u/risingaboveministries/media/l/7z3h63n-respite-for-kids

Episode Summary-

In this inspiring and heartfelt episode, listeners meet Toby, a 19-year-old student from Ohio whose life is a powerful testament to resilience, faith, and joy. Living with his parents, younger sister, two older brothers, and his loyal service dog, Toby shares what it’s like to navigate senior year while managing the challenges of spina bifida.

Toby opens up about his early medical journey—becoming medically fragile at just two weeks old and relying on a tracheostomy, ventilator, and feeding tube. After undergoing 66 surgeries over the course of his life, he reflects on how, through faith and perseverance, he learned to speak and eat by mouth—milestones that once seemed impossible.

Throughout the conversation, Toby’s personality shines as he talks about the things he loves, from youth group and Young Life Capernaum to video games, Christian music, Adventures in Odyssey, and all things Star Wars. With honesty and humor, he shares the ups and downs of daily life, offering a candid look at both the struggles and the victories.

At its core, this episode is a story of trusting God’s plan in the face of uncertainty. Toby’s unwavering faith and positive outlook remind listeners that even in life’s hardest moments, joy can still be found. His journey encourages others to embrace hope, lean into their faith, and keep moving forward—no matter the obstacles.

Moment of Reflection-

Toby shared that before one of his surgeries, he quietly asked God, “God, are you really with me?” In that moment, he felt God’s presence clearly showing him that He was indeed there. Take a moment today to reflect: where in your life are you questioning if God really sees you—or your child? Spend some time in prayer or quiet reflection, and open your heart to the ways He is showing up, even in the uncertainty.

From Isolation to Connection: The Power of Community Groups

Episode Summary:

In this heartfelt episode, we explore the power of community among moms navigating the challenges of raising children with special needs. Through stories of resilience, faith, and shared support, we highlight how meaningful connections can transform life’s difficulties into opportunities for growth and encouragement.

The moms featured in this episode are all part of a Rising Above group made up of women who are newer on the special needs journey, with children who have recently received a diagnosis.

Rising Above community groups meet throughout the week for both moms and dads of kids with disabilities and special needs, offering a place to find support, understanding, and connection with others on a similar journey. To learn more and find a group near you, visit our website.

 

Moment of Reflection: 

Who are the people in your life you can actually be real with right now? And if you’re coming up short… what’s one small step you could take to find that kind of connection? Maybe it’s inviting someone to meet for coffee or striking up a conversation with another parent  in the waiting room at your child’s therapy office to see if they may be a potential friend. 

Because the truth is, trying to navigate things on our own just makes everything heavier.

If you don’t currently have a group of moms you can meet with—whether that’s in person or online—I’d really encourage you to look into joining one of Rising Above’s online community groups. It’s a simple way to get connected with women who understand what you’re walking through, without having to explain every detail. You can find all of our groups on our website or our app.

 

Hayden Hensley- In His Own Words

Celebrating Hayden: A Young Man Inspiring Change Through Faith, Family, and Creativity

Join us in this uplifting episode as Hayden shares his journey of living with disabilities, his passion for game shows, country music, and his inspiring prayer ministry. Discover how Hayden’s positive outlook and initiatives are making an impact on his community and beyond.In this episode:

• Hayden discusses his love for The Masked Singer and Wheel of Fortune and his dream to appear on game shows
• Highlighting Hayden’s favorite country artists and his budding keyboard skills
• Exploring Hayden’s approach to connecting with others with kindness and respect
• Insights into his and his mom’s co-written book advocating for understanding and inclusion of people with disabilities
• Deep dive into Hayden’s new prayer ministry, In His Name, offering hope and support to others
• The power of humor, authenticity, and faith in overcoming life’s challenges
• How a young man defies stereotypes and actively works to bridge gaps in understanding

Resources & Links:

• Hayden & Jonna's Book: "VIPs - Very Important People" (search on Amazon)
• Listen to Us Podcast (Spotify link placeholder)
• Hayden's Instagram: @joanna.hensley
• Book on Amazon

Connect with Hayden:

• Instagram

Special Highlights:

• Hayden emphasizes the importance of treating everyone with respect and dignity
• His story of finding purpose through his prayer ministry and community engagement
• How humor and authenticity help Hayden navigate life's challenges
• The profound impact of a simple question: "How can I pray for you?"

Takeaway: Hayden’s journey reminds us that everyone deserves respect, love, and understanding. His voice encourages us all to see beyond disabilities and embrace the unique talents and contributions every individual brings.

Bio: Hayden "HPtheVIP" Hensley is a 2025 high school graduate passionate about disability awareness, game shows, country music, and making friends. He is a co-author of the children's book, "HP and the VIPs: Gaining Backstage Access to Very Interesting People" which teaches disability etiquette to children and adults alike. Hayden is a co-host of the fun, enlightening podcast, "Listen to This!" in which he and his mother, Johnna, share unbelievable true stories of chaos that leave their listeners giggling with a fresh perspective. In 2026, Hayden founded a prayer ministry, "In His Name" where he enjoys connecting his belief in prayer with his passion of meeting people. He and his family reside in the Dallas area where he is a big brother to five younger siblings and serves in his local church as a greeter weekly.

Moment of Reflection: 

Is there something God may be calling you to do, but maybe you’ve been a little slow to get started? Maybe it feels too big, or you’re unsure where to begin. What if you did what Hayden did and simply said yes? What’s one small, practical step you can take this week to move toward it? One phone call, one conversation, one act of obedience. Small steps of faith can lead to extraordinary things.

 

A New Face At Rising Above + Exclusive look at By The Brook

Episode Summary 

Unlock the genuine power of community and hope with Kelsey Hawkins, our newest team member. In this heartfelt episode, you'll discover how authentic connection and social media can be a force for healing and encouragement—especially for moms navigating the chaos of special needs parenting. 

Kelsey reveals her surprising passion for photography and gardening, her professional extrovert superpower, and her vision for creating a safe haven for those feeling overwhelmed. 

We break down practical insights: how sharing vulnerable stories can ignite hope, the importance of intentional community events, and the impact of social media platforms like Facebook for meaningful conversation. 

You'll learn about Rising Above’s upcoming event, By the Brook, a powerful retreat designed to refresh tired hearts with joy, connection, and spiritual illumination.

You'll hear how the theme from Psalm 18:28 guides their mission of bringing light into the darkness—an essential message for anyone longing for hope amidst life's challenges.

If you’re a mom, a ministry supporter, or someone craving authentic community in a digital world, this episode is your reminder that you're not alone. Whether you join us in person or create your own retreat experience, you’ll leave inspired to shine your light and embrace the hope that Christ offers—no matter how dark the season. 

Perfect for anyone battling burnout, seeking genuine connection, or passionate about making a difference—this episode fuels your mission and reminds you of the transformative power of community and faith. Tune in to be uplifted and equipped for the next chapter of your journey.

To purchase your ticket to By The Brooke - A Weekend Experience For Special-Needs Moms follow this link - https://www.risingaboveministries.org/bythebrook

For any questions regarding By The Brook email cmackie@risingaboveministries.org

This Is My Story

Episode Summary:

This week’s episode features a special message by Becky Davidson recorded live at By the Brook in 2019 titled “This Is My Story.”

In this powerful and personal talk, listeners are invited to reflect on the stories they carry — the ones they tell themselves, the ones others have spoken over them, and the narratives they’ve come to believe. Some of these stories are beautifully true. Others, however, are incomplete or simply untrue.

Every person has a story — the stranger in the hallway, the cashier at the grocery store, the mother across the waiting room. Yet it’s easy to mistake a single moment for the whole narrative. What’s visible today is only a page, a paragraph — not the entire story.

This message explores where personal narratives come from and how both internal thoughts and external voices shape identity. It gently challenges listeners to reconsider the assumptions they’ve accepted and to recognize that their lives are part of something far greater.

At its heart, this episode points to the Bigger Story — one written by God — that brings meaning, redemption, and hope to every chapter. Practical, everyday tools are shared to help listeners ground themselves in truth, remember who they are, and live with confidence in the Author who holds it all together.

To purchase your ticket to By The Brooke - A Weekend Experience For Special-Needs Moms follow this link - https://www.risingaboveministries.org/bythebrook

To learn more about Rising Above’s Retreat Experiences, such as “This is My Story”, visit risingaboveministries.org

 

Conversations with Catherine- Special Guest, Mandy Rawls

Title: Conversations with Catherine- Special Guest, Mandy Rawls 

Episode Summary:

On this episode of “Rising Above with Becky Davidson,” Becky Davidson is joined by Licensed Professional Counselor Catherine Virden and special guest Mandy Rawls, mom to a teenage daughter with spina bifida.

Together, they explore the emotional complexities of parenting a child with special needs, discussing trauma, self-care, vulnerability, and the importance of modeling emotional health for our children. Mandy shares her personal journey, while Catherine offers professional insight and practical strategies for maintaining emotional well-being.

This episode also launches a new recurring feature of the show. Every few months, Catherine will return to speak with different parents of children with disabilities, offering encouragement, tools, and real-life wisdom to support families on their journey.

 

God is Good...We Promise (with Tracey Martin)

Title: Good is Good…We Promise, Tracey’s story 

Episode Summary:

In this final episode of our series, God Is Good…We Promise, Becky Davidson and Tracey Martin reconnect for a heartfelt conversation filled with honesty, laughter, and deep encouragement. Together, they share personal stories that highlight the power of friendship, the strength found in community support, and the sustaining presence of faith in the face of life’s greatest challenges.

They reflect on meaningful memories, unexpected hardships, and the beautiful, complex journey of motherhood—especially as mothers raising children with special needs. Tracey vulnerably opens up about her recent health struggles, including her breast cancer diagnosis, and shares how her faith has anchored her and illuminated even the darkest days.

As the series comes to a close, this conversation serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of processing emotions, leaning into supportive relationships, and recognizing God’s goodness in everyday moments. Becky and Tracey encourage listeners to cling to hope, trust God’s faithfulness, and remember that even in hardship, He is present—and He is good.

Related Links:

Up in the Night - Respite for Your Mind

Goodness of God 

 

Moment of Reflection:

During the conversation, Tracey shared how she was recently asked to sing the song “The Goodness of God” at choir practice and how the lyrics deeply resonated with her, reminding her that God sees her and has carried her through incredibly challenging seasons.

This week, take a few minutes to listen to the song (linked above in the show notes). As you listen, reflect on your own life and consider where you have seen God’s faithfulness—even in seasons that felt difficult or uncertain.

 

God is Good...We Promise (with Vivian Cate)

God is Good…We Promise, Vivian’s Story 

About the Episode

In this conversation, Vivian Cate shares her journey as a caregiver and mother navigating the complexities of raising children with special needs and addiction. She reflects on the challenges faced, the importance of faith, community support, and the transformative power of prayer. Vivian emphasizes the significance of seeing God's goodness in difficult times and encourages parents to hold onto hope and not give up on their children. Her mantra, 'But God,' serves as a reminder to look beyond circumstances and trust in God's plan.

Related Links:
Community Groups

Books written by Vivian:

VEGAN CUISINE: Biblical and scientific information, menus and other helpful forms, fun anecdotes,  plus over 100 recipes!

THE PROVERBS 31 WOMAN'S RESUME:  written after leading women in rehab through 12 weeks of life skills, it is great for young women (teens and older).

INTRODUCTION TO HEALTHY LIVING (Recipes for Life) includes chapters on faith, rest, exercise, and nutrition. It discusses vegan info plus further study on the importance of lectin-free and high nutrient diets.

JOURNEY TO ETERNITY (Positive Reflections on Death and Dying): is an easy read but packed full of info learned from 14 years as a hospice nurse and 57 years of personal experience with death and dying.

Moment of Reflection: 

One powerful takeaway from Vivian’s story is the simple phrase, “but God.” In seasons that didn’t make sense—when the pain felt heavy and the answers felt far away—those two words became a declaration of trust. Not a denial of hurt, but a reminder that God is still present, still working, and still good.

Where in your story do you need to add “but God”?
Is there a situation that feels unresolved, painful, or confusing—where you’re being invited to trust before you see the outcome?

Clarity may not have come yet. The waiting may not be over. But even there… but God.

 

 

God is Good...We Promise (with Carrissa Mackie)

God is Good…We Promise- Carrissa’s story 

Summary:

In part two of our series, “God Is Good… We Promise,” we continue sharing real stories of God’s goodness—even when life doesn’t make sense. This week, we’re joined by Carrissa Mackie, Director of Operations for Rising Above who bravely opens up about an incredibly challenging season in her life.

Carrissa shares how a serious leg injury became an unexpected place where God revealed His goodness in a deeply personal way. Through vulnerability and honesty, she reflects on how her faith was tested, how it grew, and how she learned to truly trust God’s will—especially when the future felt uncertain. Her story is a powerful reminder that God is still good, even in pain, waiting, and unanswered questions.

Related Links:

Practical Ways to Come Alongside Families

Moment of Reflection: 

For this week’s Moment of Reflection, Carrissa shared how, after her injury, she experienced a deeper desire to draw close to God. She explained that she now strives to make no decision and take no step forward without first seeking assurance that it aligns with God’s will for her life.

As parents of children with disabilities, there are countless decisions to navigate—many of them heavy and life-altering. Are there areas of life right now that feel unsettled or uncertain, leaving questions about which direction to take?

This week, consider bringing those questions to God. Spend intentional time with Him, asking for clarity, guidance, and wisdom for the next step, and for a greater ability to recognize and hear His voice.

 

God is Good…We Promise (with Becky Davidson)

Series: God is Good…We Promise, Stories of God’s goodness when life doesn’t make sense

Episode Summary:

This week’s episode kicks off a brand-new February series, “God Is Good… We Promise,” where host Becky Davidson invites listeners into honest, hope-filled conversations about trusting God’s goodness when life doesn’t make sense. Becky is joined by Carrissa Mackie from the Rising Above team to share the heart behind the series and why these stories of faith, pain, and perseverance matter. Becky also opens up about her own journey, reflecting on moments when God’s goodness was present even in seasons marked by confusion, loss, and deep hardship.

The episode closes with a powerful time of reflection, encouraging listeners to consider where their trust in God may feel shaky. Becky shares a meaningful reminder often spoken by her husband during suffering: “When we feel we cannot trust God’s actions in our life, we must trust His heart.”  Listeners are invited to bring their doubts and questions to God and ask Him to reveal His good heart for themselves, their children, and their families. Be sure to join next week as Carrissa shares her own story and how she experienced the goodness of God through a very challenging season.

Related Link:

Check out the Jerri Cross video on the app!

Moment of Reflection: 

For this week’s moment of reflection, I want to come back to something my husband often said, even in the middle of his pain and suffering:
“When we feel we cannot trust God’s actions in our life, we must trust His heart.”

Are there areas where your trust feels shaky right now? Places where doubt has quietly crept in? I want to encourage you to spend some time talking with God about those things. Ask Him to help you see His heart for you, for your child, and for your family—and to remind you that His heart is good, even when life doesn’t make sense.