Rising Above with Becky Davidson

What Special-needs Dads are Dealing With… But Probably Won’t Tell You

If you’ve ever wondered what your husband might be feeling—but not saying—this episode is for you. Since so many of our listeners are special needs moms carrying the emotional and practical load of daily life, Becky Davidson invited Steve Chatman to help shed some light on what’s often going on in the minds and hearts of special needs dads.

Together, they explore the emotions many dads struggle to express: feeling overwhelmed, disconnected, lonely, inadequate, or even unsure of how to communicate what they need. Steve shares honest insight into why dads sometimes pull back emotionally and offers practical ways moms can better understand and support their husbands without adding more pressure to an already full plate.

This conversation is real, encouraging, and filled with relatable moments that will make you laugh, think, and maybe even spark some meaningful conversations at home. If you’ve ever felt like you and your spouse are missing each other in the middle of the special needs journey, this episode offers a compassionate look into how to reconnect, strengthen your marriage, and remember you’re on the same team.

How God Used a Down Syndrome Diagnosis to Unfold a Profound Journey of Faith and Patience- Patrick Sawyer

The conversation between Becky Davidson and Patrick Sawyer is a heartfelt exploration of family, faith, and personal growth. Patrick shares his journey from being an athletic trainer to entering full-time ministry, highlighting the pivotal role his son Connor, who has Down syndrome, played in this transition. Patrick discusses the challenges and blessings of raising a child with special needs, emphasizing the importance of community support and faith. He describes Connor as a "little evangelist," whose pure and enthusiastic faith inspires those around him. The discussion also touches on the significance of discipleship and the impact of sharing experiences with other parents facing similar challenges.

 

Common Man, Extraordinary Call

Rising Above: Finding Joy in Every Season of Motherhood

This special Mother’s Day episode of Rising Above with Becky Davidson features a heartfelt conversation with guests Leslie Harrah and Brittnie Blackburn. Together, the three mothers open up about their journeys raising children with special needs, sharing both the struggles and the profound moments of joy that have shaped their lives. They reflect on how their expectations of motherhood have changed over time, especially around emotionally significant moments like Mother’s Day. The discussion explores themes of grief, growth, and acceptance, while also highlighting the deep ways their children have impacted and enriched their lives. They also offer practical insights on coping during difficult seasons, including stepping back from social media and leaning into supportive communities. Stay tuned through the end for a meaningful and uplifting Mother’s Day message from Becky’s late husband, Jeff. 

How a Mother's Faith Transformed Her Autism Parenting Experience - Ashley Thompson

Hey Mama's! By The Brook is just around the corner! A weekend to be filled with hope, to find community, and to have FUN! Grab a friend and grab your tickets here- https://www.risingaboveministries.org/bythebrook

 

Episode Summary:

In this heartfelt conversation, Becky Davidson and Ashley Thompson discuss the challenges and joys of raising a child with autism. Ashley shares her journey with her son Wilkes, who was diagnosed with severe nonverbal autism at age two. She reflects on the initial struggles, the impact on her family, and the importance of faith and community support. Ashley emphasizes the value of focusing on small joys and maintaining a positive outlook despite the challenges. The conversation highlights the strength and resilience of families navigating similar paths and the critical role of support networks.

Conversations with Catherine- Special Guest- Mikayla McKenzie

Hey mama, you deserve a weekend that fills your cup! Join us for By The Brook, a weekend designed just for special-needs moms! Grab your ticket at risingaboveministries.org/bythebrook

 

Episode Summary:

In Part 2 of Conversations with Catherine on Rising Above with Becky Davidson, Becky is joined by special needs mom Mikayla McKenzie and trauma counselor Catherine for an honest conversation about the hidden toll of caregiving. Together, they explore how trauma shows up in the body and nervous system—not just in diagnoses—and why many caregivers live in constant survival mode.

Mikayla shares her real-life journey caring for her son, while Catherine offers insight into how unresolved trauma, shame, and isolation impact caregivers. The episode highlights practical tools like EMDR, somatic experiencing, and simple grounding rituals to help regulate the nervous system and begin healing.

At its core, this conversation reframes vulnerability as a strength, not a weakness, and emphasizes the importance of community and support. It’s a hopeful, practical episode for anyone feeling overwhelmed—reminding caregivers they don’t have to carry it all alone.

Faith And Resilience - Kira Johnson

Episode Summary:

Most parents of children with complex needs feel overwhelmed and isolated—but what if faith, community, and small daily tools could transform your journey? Kira Johnson's story isn’t just about her incredible son JR; it’s about the power of choosing hope, trust, and perseverance amid the chaos.In this deeply personal episode, Kira shares her heartbreak in the NICU, the anger she wrestled with, and how her relationship with Jesus rewired her perspective on suffering and love. Discover how she moved from feeling abandoned by faith to embracing God's goodness, even in the hardest moments.  Her experience of baptism at a critical spiritual milestone is a powerful testament to trust and renewal—something every parent navigating grief or uncertainty can learn from.

Kira highlights how daily perseverance and scripture serve as her sword against the storm—reminding us all that hope is found in trusting God's timing, even when the road is rough.Whether you're a mom feeling the weight of diagnosis, a caregiver longing for community, or someone searching for renewed faith in the midst of hardship, this episode offers profound encouragement. Kira’s journey from shock and anger to peace and joy is a compelling invitation to say yes to divine purpose in your story.

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