I find it encouraging to listen to podcasts around topics I’m interested in and want to grow in while I’m on the road, going for a walk, or folding the laundry.
As a Christian who writes about special needs parenting and special needs ministry I’ve had the honor of meeting several of these podcast hosts at various conferences or through social media, and some of them have given me the joy of being a guest on their awesome podcast. :)
Anyway, without any further ado, some of my favorite encouraging podcasts for Christian special needs parents by special needs parents:
Last updated April 2025
“Rising Above Ministries is lifting up the special needs community through support, encouragement, inspiration, and community.”
Rising Above is a ministry that supports Christian special needs parents, not only on their website and on social media, but they also have online small groups, retreats and other events for special needs caregivers, and so much more. Becky Davidson at Rising Above has a podcast in which she chats with other special needs parents and I am loving it. Listen here.
I had the honor of being on two episodes of this podcast:
Getting on the Same Page with God in Your Special Needs Parenting Journey
Embracing Life as a Special Needs Mom
“Full-Spectrum Parent is the premier Christian podcast for autism and special needs parenting. Join pastors and autism parents Greg & Jessica Hurlbut as they share Biblical wisdom, practical strategies, and authentic encouragement for your special needs journey.”
I have two children with special needs (one on the spectrum) and Jessica and Greg Hurlbut have five kids (two on the spectrum), so I can really relate to a lot of the stories and encouragement they offer on this encouraging podcast. Listen here.
I had the honor of chatting with Jessica about the grief in our special needs parenting journey, the beauty of surrender, the power of praying Scripture, and more on an episode of this podcast. You can listen to our conversation on the podcast here.
“Self care isn’t a fad for caregivers—it’s a necessity. Sandra Peoples will help you take better care of yourself so you can care for others!”
I’ve had the honor of meeting Sandra Peoples and also collaborating with her on a few writing projects. She is passionate about creating inclusive special needs ministries in churches and encouraging special needs parents. She has written several books and numerous blog posts that have been an inspiration and encouragement to me. Her podcast is no exception. Listen here.
Note: This podcast is no longer releasing new episodes, but I still highly recommend listening to this podcast.
“Take Heart is a podcast for special needs moms by special needs moms. It is a place for special needs moms to find authentic connection, fervent hope and inspiring stories.”
I met the three lovely ladies of Take Heart Special Moms (Sara Clime, Amy Brown, and Carrie Holt) at a Christian writing conference. They are wonderful people that I wish I had spent more time getting to know in person, but I’m grateful I can hear more of their stories and hearts on this lovely and encouraging podcast. Listen here.
"Calling all dads in the special needs world—whether you’re navigating IEP meetings, meltdowns, or just trying to get through the day without stepping on a LEGO… this one’s for you.
Rising Above Dads is the podcast where we talk real-life parenting with humor, honesty, and a whole lot of heart. No sugarcoating. No expert-only jargon. Just dads supporting dads, sharing laughs, and reminding each other we’re not in this alone.
Because fatherhood doesn’t come with a manual—but at least now, it comes with a podcast."
I get asked a lot about resources I recommend for dads, and while I knew of a book or two, I didn’t really have another resource to recommend. So I was so excited to learn that Rising Above was creating a podcast for the dads, hosted by three dads caring for a child or children with disabilities. I’ll admit I haven’t listened to it as I’m not the target audience, but I think based on the content Rising Above creates for families caring for children with special needs, this podcast will be pretty awesome. Dads, enjoy the podcast and let me know what you think of it. Listen here.
What podcasts for special needs parents are your favorite? Do you know of any other podcasts I should check out?