A Little Extra Love

In this episode of A Little Extra Love, Kyle Vermeulen sits down with Joe Butler—husband of 29 years, father of three, dad to Micah, and co-founder of Ability Tree—for an honest, hope-filled conversation about fatherhood under pressure and the faith it takes to keep showing up when life doesn’t go according to plan.Joe takes us back to the moment disability entered their story: a seizure on a Wednesday night at church, a hospital ride filled with fear, and a diagnosis that brought more uncertainty than answers. From there, he shares what the early years really looked like—therapy schedules, exhaustion, navigating marriage and sibling needs, and the isolation that so many disability families quietly carry.But woven through every part of Joe’s story is a steady thread of God’s faithfulness: the way the Lord met him in the questions, reshaped his understanding of suffering, and used Micah’s life to open doors for deeper ministry, deeper community, and deeper surrender. This episode is for dads, parents, and church leaders who want something real—something grounded in Scripture, lived experience, and a practical vision of what it looks like to do ministry with families impacted by disability.What You’ll Hear in This ConversationJoe’s origin story: when disability first changed everything for their familyThe “first decade blur”: therapies, school battles, exhaustion, and learning how to keep goingThe difference between trying to “fix” the situation and learning how to embrace the child God has givenHow Ability Tree was born out of a gap—and why families are treated like family, not clientsWhat dads need most after diagnosis (and what Joe wishes every father could hear)Why the Church doesn’t need to start “something flashy” to be faithful—just a changed posture and willingness to learnHow disability reshapes the way we understand suffering, community, and the glory of GodA powerful closing prayer over dads, marriages, families, and church leadersScriptures ReferencedPsalm 127:3 — Children are a gift from the LordPsalm 139 — Fearfully and wonderfully made; God sees what we can’tMatthew 11:28 — Come to Me and I will give you rest1 Corinthians 12 — Every member is indispensable; gifts for the common goodJohn 15 — Abide in the Vine; stay connected to the life sourceResourcesLearn more about Ability Tree - https://www.abilitytree.org/Life with Micah (Joe & Jen’s book) - https://www.amazon.com/Life-Micah-Joe-Butler/dp/B0C5G4CCZNFollow Joe on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joe_n_butler/Follow Ability Tree on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/abilitytree/Follow Ability Tree on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/abilitytree

What if the biggest barrier to disability inclusion isn’t budget, space, or staffing… but posture?In this episode of A Little Extra Love, Rachael sits down with Rebecca Wall, Executive Director of With Ministries, for a thoughtful and deeply pastoral conversation about what it actually costs to move from welcoming to belonging. Rebecca shares how her disability journey began with a first-grade friendship, why inclusion so often fades after childhood, and the “withness” Jesus models—slow, present, returning again and again.We talk about the pain families carry, the quiet reasons churches keep missing adults with disabilities, and the hopeful truth: the first steps toward belonging are often free… but they require humility, repentance, and proximity.If you’re a parent who’s been hurt by the church, a leader who feels overwhelmed, or a church trying to do this faithfully—this one will meet you in the tension and give you a next right step.In This Episode, We Talk AboutHow Rebecca’s journey into disability ministry began at age six through friendshipWhy inclusion becomes harder as individuals with disabilities ageThe hidden gap between children’s ministry and lifelong discipleshipThe difference between welcome and true belongingWhy posture — not programming — is the most important factor in accessibilityThe heartbreaking reality: 1 in 2 families leave churches after disability diagnosisHow pastors can begin today without new resources or staffWhat disability friendships teach us about dependence, delight, and the Kingdom of GodWhy belonging is formed through presence, not perfectionResources:Website: https://withministries.org/Equip: https://withministries.org/equip/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/withministriesorg/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/withministriesorg

What happens when suffering becomes the doorway to calling?In this powerful in-person episode of A Little Extra Love, Rachael Vermeulen sits down with disability ministry coordinator and advocate Abby Howard, whose life changed overnight after a rare spinal cord stroke left her paralyzed from the chest down.What followed wasn’t just physical recovery — it was a radical redefinition of mission, obedience, and the Church’s responsibility to the disability community.Abby shares how God used her story to reveal one of the most overlooked realities in modern Christianity: the disability community is one of the largest unreached people groups, often not by rejection of the gospel, but by inaccessibility to it.Together, they explore suffering, dependence, advocacy, holy disruption, and what it means to “flip tables with love” so that no one is left outside the Body of Christ.This conversation is a call to church leaders, families, and believers everywhere: the gospel was never meant to be inaccessible.What You’ll Learn in This EpisodeHow disability reshaped Abby’s understanding of calling and missionWhy the disability community is an unreached people groupThe difference between awareness and true belonging in churchesWhat biblical advocacy actually looks likeWhy obedience often requires discomfortHow weakness becomes the starting place of God’s powerPractical encouragement for churches unsure where to beginTo connect with Abby and her resources through The Accessible Gospel you can find them here:Resources: https://stan.store/theaccessiblegospelInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/theaccessiblegospel/Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@abbynothannahdisability ministry podcast, accessible church, disability and the gospel, Christian disability advocacy, inclusive church leadership, disability theology, testimony, Great Commission disability ministry, church accessibility ministry

What happens when your child can’t sleep and neither can you?Kyle Vermeulen sits down with Jon and Amara Smith, parents of a son with Angelman syndrome and founders of Safe Place Bedding, to talk about the holy trenches of caregiving: chronic sleep deprivation, marriage strain, and the moment God turned an exhausted idea into a life-changing mission.This conversation isn’t just about a product—it’s about obedience born out of desperation, dreams reimagined, and the way God meets families who are running on empty. If you’re a parent who hasn’t slept through the night in years, this episode is for you.In this episode, we talk about:Jon & Amara’s early years of marriage + becoming new believers while navigating diagnosisThe grief of “dreams crashing down” and learning to dream new dreamsThe hidden cost of sleep deprivation on marriage, parenting, and spiritual lifeThe breakthrough moment: realizing enclosed sleep helped—and travel made everything unravel againHow Safe Place Bedding was born from a Florida hotel room at 3amWhy safe sleep is not “convenience,” but dignity, safety, and sustainability for the whole familyPractical encouragement for exhausted couples: asking for help, protecting date night, and staying anchored in ChristKey Scriptures referencedPsalm 34:19Psalm 34:18Matthew 25:40Romans 8:37Connect with Jon & Amara / Safe Place BeddingWebsite: Safe Place Bedding - https://safeplacebedding.com/If you’re overwhelmed or unsure where to start: reach out to their team—they’ll help you navigate options like insurance, grants, and next steps.

What if disability isn’t a detour from God’s plan but an invitation deeper into His heart?In this episode of A Little Extra Love host, Rachael Vermeulen sits down with Sarah Lowry, CEO of Love That Surpasses, for a deeply honest conversation about grief, redemption, and the transformative theology born through disability parenting.Sarah shares her family’s journey raising two children with disabilities, autism and Down syndrome, and how God gently reframed her understanding of motherhood, worth, and calling. Together, they explore the powerful framework behind The Leah Inheritance, a redemptive way of understanding disability through Scripture, and why the ministry of disability is not a side ministry but central to the Church’s spiritual formation.This conversation speaks directly to parents navigating diagnosis, church leaders longing to serve families well, and believers seeking a deeper understanding of holiness, dependence, and the love of Christ that truly surpasses understanding.If you’ve ever wondered where God is in grief, exhaustion, or unanswered expectations — this episode will remind you that His presence meets us there first.What You’ll Learn in This EpisodeWhy disability parenting often begins with grief — and ends in transformationThe lie of “normal motherhood” and how God reframes identityWhy the Church’s narrative around disability often falls shortThe biblical meaning behind The Leah InheritanceHow disability ministry reveals dependence on the Holy SpiritWhy disability families carry unique spiritual insight for the ChurchHow churches can move from accommodation → invitation → partnershipTo connect with Love That Surpasses Ministries and Sarah follow the links below:Love That Surpasses – https://www.lovethatsurpasses.org/The Leah Narrative Bible Study - https://www.lovethatsurpasses.org/leahThe Leah Kids Resources - https://www.lovethatsurpasses.org/leahskidsInstagram-Sarah: https://www.instagram.com/lovethatsurpasses/Ministry: https://www.instagram.com/lovethatsurpassesministries/

What happens when you can’t unsee the gap and God keeps inviting you deeper? In this episode of A Little Extra Love, Rachael Vermeulen sits down with Krystian Caywood, founder and Executive Director of Unstoppable God Ministries, for a conversation about disability discipleship, holy discomfort, and the kind of “yes” that costs something.Krystian shares the moment her advocacy ignited, why access is only the starting line, and how the Church can move toward belonging and real spiritual formation for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). You’ll hear the unforgettable “whole potato” story, what it means to go all in when God calls, and why families shouldn’t have to carry disability advocacy alone inside the Church. Plus, Krystian opens up about leaving her dream job, holding ministry with excellence, and what it looks like to build spaces designed with disciples of all abilities in mind.If you’re a parent, church leader, volunteer, or advocate who feels tired, unsure, or hungry for hope, this episode will remind you: you’re not alone, and God is moving.What You’ll LearnWhy “letting someone attend” isn’t the same as belongingHow to think about adaptive discipleship with theological faithfulness and clarityThe difference between inclusion as a program and inclusion as a postureWhy disability parents shouldn’t have to do ministry for their child to have a church homeWhat it looks like to keep saying yes to God when you don’t have a roadmapTo learn more about Krystian & Unstoppable God Ministries check out these resources: Unstoppable God Ministries : https://unstoppablegodministries.org Unstoppable God Conference (ages 15+ with IDD; summer & fall 2026 dates listed): https://unstoppablegodministries.org/events/unstoppable-god-conference/Family Weekend Conference:https://unstoppablegodministries.org/events/family-weekendInstagram:Krystian: https://www.instagram.com/krystianalisha/UGM: https://www.instagram.com/unstoppablegodministries/Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@krystianalisha

In this heartfelt episode of A Little Extra Love, host Rachael Vermeulen sits down with Julie Hornok, co-founder of Labeled and Loved, wife of 28 years, and mom of three—including her daughter Lizzie, who was diagnosed with autism at age two.Julie opens up about her family’s journey through grief, surrender, and surprising joy as God met her in the places she couldn’t control. From the moment she first stepped into a church’s special needs ministry, to navigating the fears and questions of Lizzie’s baptism, Julie’s story shines with vulnerability, redemption, and hope.Together, Rachael and Julie talk about the labels parents carry, the suffering of our children, and the unshakable faithfulness of God. You’ll also hear the powerful story behind Labeled and Loved, the nationwide ministry creating lifelines for moms of children with disabilities through retreats, sisterhood circles, and support.Whether you’re weary, carrying labels you never asked for, or just in need of a reminder that God is working even in what feels broken—this conversation will meet you there.Show NotesIn this episode, we discuss:Julie’s journey through Lizzie’s early autism diagnosis and God’s provision along the way.The moment of surrender that shifted her motherhood and faith.How the church can respond with tenderness and love to families of children with disabilities.Wrestling with questions about faith and baptism in children with special needs.Holding hope when healing looks different than expected.The birth and growth of Labeled and Loved—and how it’s changing lives across the country.A reminder for moms: God is working while you rest.Resources & Links Mentioned in This Episode:Labeled and Loved WebsiteLearn more about the Weekend of Hope Retreat and Sisterhood CirclesScripture References:Deuteronomy 31:8 – “The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you...”Proverbs 3:24 – “When you lie down, your sleep will be sweet.”Connect with Julie Hornok:Instagram: @juliehornokLabeled and Loved InstagramConnect with Rachael Vermeulen & A Little Extra Love:Instagram: @alittleextraloveInstagram: @rachvermeulenWebsite: alittleextralove.com

Episode Summary:In this profoundly honest and tender episode, Rachael sits down with Sunita Theiss, an autistic and ADHD writer, advocate, and mother of two neurodivergent children, to explore what it means to be seen by God even when life feels misaligned, misdiagnosed, or misunderstood.Sunita shares how her children’s diagnoses led her to her own, and how, in the midst of that unraveling, she encountered the unshakable presence of God. From her Hindu upbringing to the grief of losing her father, from substance use to late diagnosis, Sunita’s journey testifies to the faithfulness of a God who was present all along.This episode is an invitation to every weary parent, especially those raising children with disabilities, to remember: you are not alone, and your story is not outside the bounds of redemption.Key Topics Covered:Finding joy in small, sensory-centered momentsNavigating late autism and ADHD diagnosis as a motherReframing disability not as brokenness, but as intentional designLetting motherhood reveal God's nature and loveHow spiritual formation looks different in neurodivergent homesDispelling toxic theology around suffering and disabilityCreating support systems rooted in faith, honesty, and mutual understandingHow prayer and presence can sustain a weary heartEmbracing God's mercy through healing, therapy, and honest communityKey Quotes:“Maybe the brokenness in this world is not your child's disability—but the failure to accommodate.”“You're not broken, you're being built. Moment by moment, mercy by mercy.”“God knew before I did. And He called it good.”Spiritual Themes:Providence: God’s hand in our lives even before we have language for our experiencesImago Dei: The dignity and divine image reflected in neurodivergent children and adultsSanctification through parenting: How motherhood reveals and refines our faithTheology of suffering: Honest reflection on grief, loss, and the presence of God in painPrayer as regulation: Integrating faith into daily sensory and emotional practicesResources Mentioned:Sunita’s Upcoming Workshop: Parenting PDA with a Biblical LensFree Resources for Christian Parents Navigating NeurodivergenceVirtual Support Group for Christian Moms of PDA ChildrenWriting Groups and Creative Support SpacesLetter Writing Tool: FutureMe.comFollow Sunita:https://sunitatheiss.com/https://www.instagram.com/sunitatheiss/Resources:Low Demand Coaching Biblical Truths for Neurdivergent KidsIf you've ever questioned how your story fits into God’s plan, this episode will remind you that His faithfulness isn't dependent on your clarity. He is not waiting for you to have the answers—He’s already present in your questions."Commit your work to the Lord, and your plans will be established."— Proverbs 16:3You are not behind. You are not broken. You are being built. Moment by moment. Mercy by mercy.Keywords:Christian parenting, autism and faith, ADHD mom, neurodivergent family, late diagnosis autism, trauma-informed motherhood, PDA parenting, biblical view of disability, faith-based support, gospel-centered motherhood, parenting special needs, motherhood and theology, suffering and grace, spiritual regulation, autism in the church, accommodation and inclusion, theology of parenting

In this heartfelt conversation, Renee Sellers shares her journey as a mother of two autistic daughters, exploring the intersection of faith and disability. She discusses the initial struggles with the diagnosis, the shift from despair to joy, and the importance of celebrating her daughters' uniqueness. The conversation emphasizes the need for church communities to be inclusive and supportive, recognizing the beauty in every individual's story. Through personal anecdotes and reflections, Renee highlights God's presence in their journey, encouraging other parents to trust in His love and timing.Follow Renee Sellers on Instagram Inclusive Pathways equips churches to create vibrant, inclusive communities where individuals with disabilities and their families thrive. Learn more about Inclusive Pathways here !Chapters00:00 The Journey of Parenting with Disabilities00:05 Finding Joy in Everyday Moments02:41 Reconciling Faith with Diagnosis05:27 The Shift from Despair to Joy08:02 God's Promises and Rainbows10:36 Celebrating Autism and Acceptance13:09 The Role of Church in Disability Advocacy15:36 Feeling Seen in the Faith Community18:10 Trusting God in the Waiting20:45 Encouragement for Moms in the Journey23:25 Closing Prayer and Reflections24:36 New Chapterdisability, autism, faith, parenting, church inclusion, joy, acceptance, God's promises, community support, motherhood

In the first episode of the In His Image - Disability Pride Month Mini Series from the A Little Extra Love podcast, Rachael Vermeulen discusses the intersection of disability and faith, particularly in the context of Disability Pride Month. She explores the theological implications of disability, emphasizing that every person, regardless of ability, reflects the image of God. The conversation challenges traditional views of disability as a flaw and instead presents it as a vital part of God's design, deserving of honor and celebration. Rachael calls for a shift in church culture towards true inclusion and belonging for individuals with disabilities, highlighting the need for communities to embrace interdependence and learn from those who experience disability.Learn more about Inclusive Pathways here!Follow Rachael on: Instagram - Facebook - TiktokFollow A Little Extra Love on: Instagram - Facebook TakeawaysDisability is a vital part of God's design.Every person reflects the image of God, regardless of ability.The church must honor and include individuals with disabilities.Disability is not a detour but a place where God's glory dwells.We need to shift from pity to partnership with disabled individuals.Celebration of disability is about seeing it as sacred.The future is not about erasing disability but revealing it in glory.Belonging is central to the gospel and should be prioritized in church communities.Disability illuminates the gospel rather than hinders it.Communities must reflect the heart of God by embracing interdependence.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Disability Pride Month01:03 Understanding the Image of God05:22 Reframing Disability and Suffering09:10 The Indispensable Role of Disability in the Church12:29 The Hope of Redemption and Glory16:17 Celebration of Inclusion and Belonging21:05 Call to Action for Churches and CommunitiesKeywordsDisability, Image of God, Inclusion, Church, Belonging, Disability Pride Month, Theology, Community, Celebration, Hope

In this episode of A Little Extra Love, Rachael Vermeulen is joined by Amber Mustain, a wife and mother navigating the complexities of raising a child with disabilities. Amber is the host of the Wait & See Podcast, and a creative florist located in Colorado. Amber shares the profound story of her son Colton, who was diagnosed with congenital CMV, and how her faith has been the anchor through the storm of challenges. Together, they explore the importance of surrendering control, building a supportive community, and finding joy even in the midst of hardship. Amber’s story is a reminder that, while the journey of disability parenting can feel isolating, we are never alone when we lean on faith and community.Show Notes:In this episode, Amber Mustain opens up about her experiences as a mom raising a child with disabilities. She speaks about the emotional and spiritual challenges she faced after her son Colton’s diagnosis, and how she leaned into her faith to navigate these trials. Amber touches on the complexities of medication decisions, finding support from those around her, and how surrendering control has helped her grow as a parent.Some of the key topics discussed in this episode include:Amber’s journey with Colton’s congenital CMV diagnosis and the early challenges they faced.The vital role of faith in Amber’s parenting journey and how trusting God provided strength.The power of surrendering control as a parent of a child with disabilities.The importance of building a community of support and connection.Finding joy amidst the chaos of disability parenting.Amber’s podcast and her mission to create space for parents to share their stories.Amber's wisdom will resonate with anyone walking the road of disability parenting, offering hope, encouragement, and a reminder that we are not alone.Takeaways:Faith and surrender are essential for navigating the challenges of disability parenting.Building a supportive community can alleviate feelings of isolation.Parents should focus on what helps their child thrive and trust God’s leading.Every child’s journey is unique—resist the temptation to compare your story with others.Even in the most difficult moments, joy can be found in the smallest blessings.You can connect more with Amber at:https://www.instagram.com/waitandseepodcast/https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100082412962537https://www.ambermustain.com/Disability parenting, Special needs parenting, Faith and resilience, Parenting challenges, Parenting with faith, Support for special needs parents, Surrendering control in parenting, Building community in disability parenting, Joy in adversity, Faith in parenting, Parenting a child with disabilities, CMV diagnosis, Trusting God in parenting, Resilience in special needs, Supportive community for parents, Special needs mom encouragement

SummaryIn this heartfelt conversation, Rachael Vermeulen and Laura Powell discuss the profound journey of faith, resilience, and community support through the challenges of infertility and a dwarfism diagnosis for her daughter. Laura shares her personal experiences, emphasizing the importance of trusting God during uncertain times and finding beauty in the struggles. The discussion highlights the significance of community, the impact of social media, and the transformative power of faith in navigating life's challenges. You can find Laura on instagram at @laupow_! TakeawaysLaura's journey through infertility lasted 10 years, filled with challenges and hope.Trusting God during difficult times can lead to unexpected blessings.Community support is vital for parents facing special needs challenges.Social media can be a double-edged sword; set boundaries to protect mental health.Acceptance of a child's diagnosis is a journey that takes time and support.Finding beauty in the journey can transform one's perspective on life.Open up and share your story; you may find unexpected support.Clarity about your child's needs comes with time and experience.God's presence is felt most during life's hardest moments.Every child is wonderfully made, and their uniqueness is a gift.Chapter00:00 The Journey of Infertility02:08 Faith and Resilience in Adversity04:37 Navigating Pregnancy Challenges07:12 Embracing the Unknown: Trusting God09:46 Finding Peace in Diagnosis12:09 The Beauty of Motherhood14:35 Overcoming Comparison and Setting Boundaries18:19 The Power of Community for Special Needs Moms24:09 Finding Support in Difficult Times28:39 Embracing the Journey of Motherhood35:28 A Prayer for Hope and HealingKeywordsInfertility, Disability Parenting, Dwarfism, Faith, Parenting, Special needs, Community Support, Disability Diagnosis, Christian Motherhood, Disability Ministry, Special Needs Ministry, Faith Journey, Down Syndrome, Autism, Medically Complex, Christian Parenting

In this episode, Rachael and Kyle Vermeulen discuss their journey of stepping back from their podcast in 2024 to focus on building a community for families affected by disabilities. They emphasize the importance of belonging, connection, and support within the church and the broader community. The couple shares their experiences of creating safe spaces for families, launching new programs for 2025, and the mission of Inclusive Pathways to equip churches to foster true belonging for all families.TakeawaysBuilding a community where families feel seen and belong is essential.Sometimes obedience means stepping away from what you thought was important.Creating a sense of belonging is crucial for families affected by disabilities.Hope and healing are experienced through community support.The disability community is one of the most underserved populations.Disability dads often lack safe spaces to connect and share their experiences.Authentic friendships can transform lives and provide support.Belonging is not just about being invited; it's about being essential.Inclusive pathways can help churches become places of true belonging.Every family deserves to feel valued and supported in their faith journey.Chapters00:00 The Journey to Community and Belonging02:15 Stepping Back to Step Forward04:42 The Need for Connection in Disability Communities07:08 Building Authentic Relationships09:51 Creating Safe Spaces for Families12:13 The Impact of Community on Families14:58 Launching New Programs for 202517:40 Inclusive Pathways: A New Approach19:11 Transforming Churches for True Belonging21:42 The Heart of Disability Ministry23:26 Looking Ahead: Hope and Healing in 2025special needs parenting, disability parenting, autism, down syndrome, developmental delay, community, belonging, disability, faith, support, connection, church, families, hope, healing, caregiving, disability ministry, special needs ministry,

SummaryIn this episode, Rachael and Kyle Vermeulen discuss the importance of maintaining a strong marriage during the challenges of disability parenting. They emphasize the role of faith in navigating crisis and the need for open communication and teamwork. The couple shares their own experiences and offers practical tips for building a strong foundation in marriage, including the use of love maps, turning towards each other, and making repair attempts during conflicts. They highlight the importance of seeking therapy and finding a supportive community. Overall, the episode encourages disability parents to prioritize their marriage and find strength in unity and faith.Disability Parenting, Special Needs Parenting, Faith Journey, Down Syndrome, Autism, Medically Complex, Christian ParentingTakeawaysMaintaining a strong marriage is crucial for disability parents navigating crisis.Faith plays a significant role in overcoming challenges and finding support.Open communication, teamwork, and empathy are essential in a healthy marriage.Using tools like love maps, turning towards, and repair attempts can strengthen emotional connection and resolve conflicts.Seeking therapy and finding a supportive community are important for growth and resilience in marriage.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Overview05:00 The Importance of Marriage Counseling09:13 Recognizing and Supporting Each Other in Times of Stress14:51 Forgiveness and Unity in Marriage29:06 Turning Towards Each Other36:41 Prayer and Unity in Marriage

In this episode, Rachael and Kyle Vermeulen discuss the role of faith in navigating the challenges of disability parenting. They share personal stories of finding strength in faith during difficult times and how their faith has evolved over the years. They emphasize the importance of surrendering worries to God and finding comfort in His promises. The couple also highlights the guidance and direction they have received through prayer and the peace that comes from trusting in God's plan. They encourage listeners to lean on their faith and know that they are not alone in their journey.TakeawaysFaith can provide strength, guidance, and comfort during the challenges of disability parenting.Surrendering worries to God and trusting in His plan can bring peace and clarity.God's promises and presence can provide comfort and support in difficult times.Prayer is a powerful tool for finding guidance and direction in navigating the complexities of disability parenting.Trusting in God's timing and plan can lead to unexpected blessings and a sense of hope.Chapters00:00 Introduction01:01 Finding Strength in Faith03:26 Evolution of Faith Journey04:25 Grieving Expectations and Finding Faith Again05:23 Acceptance and God's Promises06:44 Finding Beauty in Brokenness07:14 Strength in Faith as a New Dad08:13 Trusting God's Guidance09:36 Overcoming Obstacles with Faith10:02 God's Presence in Challenging Times11:29 Comfort in God's Promises12:54 Guidance and Direction through Prayer14:36 Spiritual Beliefs and Clarity16:30 Surrendering Worries to God19:48 God's Guidance in Relocating21:40 Feeling at Home in Colorado23:34 Faith as a Compass24:04 Finding Strength in God's Promises25:02 Peace in God's Presence26:27 Presenting Worries to God27:52 Comfort and Peace in Uncertainty28:18 Finding Comfort in God's Calling29:43 Finding Comfort in God's Timing30:41 Trusting God's Plan for Milestones32:08 Faith in God's Faithfulness33:08 Overcoming Doubt and Ego35:32 God's Guidance and Blessings37:27 Faith as a Relationship38:54 Trusting God's Plan39:46 Encouragement and SupportWebsite & Devotional: alittleextralove.comSocial Media: Ministry: https://instagram.com/alittleextralove/Rachael: https://instagram.com/rachvermeulen/Kyle: https://instagram.com/kylekverm/A Little Extra Love - Disability Parenting, Special Needs Parenting, Faith Journey, Down Syndrome, Autism, Medically Complex, Christian Parenting

In this episode, Rachel and Kyle introduce themselves and share their personal experiences as disability parents. They discuss the importance of bringing God into the conversation and finding beauty in the broken places of life. They also highlight the need for community and support in the disability community. The inspiration behind their podcast, A Little Extra Love, is to provide spiritual nourishment and soul support to disability parents. Rachel focuses on serving moms, helping them find strength and joy in their journey, while Kyle aims to support dads and raise awareness about mental health in the disability community. In this episode, Rachael and Kyle Vermeulen share their mission and purpose behind their podcast, A Little Extra Love. They emphasize the importance of community and support for special needs parents and caregivers. The couple also discusses the challenges faced by disability families, including financial strain and higher divorce rates. They highlight the need for couples to prioritize their relationship and seek God together. Rachael and Kyle share their personal experiences and encourage listeners to find beauty in the brokenness. They remind parents that God is faithful and can bring joy even in the midst of difficult circumstances.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Purpose02:28 Personal Experiences and Transformation05:22 Different Perspectives on Parenthood08:12 The Importance of Community10:05 Inspiration Behind A Little Extra Love13:21 Serving Moms in the Disability Community24:47 Mission and Purpose27:13 Statistics and Challenges30:45 Importance of Marriage and Support33:11 Building a Supportive Community36:27 Finding Beauty in Brokenness44:22 God's Faithfulness and New Beginnings46:19 Encouragement to Seek GodDisability Parenting, Special Needs Parenting, Faith Journey, Down Syndrome, Autism, Medically Complex, Christian Parenting

Step into a world of faith-driven resilience and unwavering love in disability parenting with "A Little Extra Love," the podcast dedicated to empowering special needs families through the transformative power of community and faith. Join hosts Rachael and Kyle Vermeulen as they share their personal journey of parenthood, advocacy, and finding beauty in the broken moments of life.In each episode, Rachael and Kyle invite you to explore the intersection of faith, hope, and disability parenting, offering heartfelt conversations, relatable stories, and biblical truths to inspire and uplift. From navigating the challenges of special needs parenting to celebrating the triumphs and joys along the way, "A Little Extra Love" provides a sanctuary where families can find solace, strength, and a sense of belonging.Discover practical insights, actionable advice, and genuine support as Rachael and Kyle dive into topics such as mental health, marriage, advocacy, and spiritual growth. With each episode, you'll be reminded that no journey is walked alone, and that together, we can find beauty, hope, and a little extra love in every circumstance.Subscribe now to "A Little Extra Love" and join the movement to create a world where every disability family feels understood, supported, and deeply loved, no matter the challenges they face. Let's journey together towards healing, hope, and a life thats brighter and full of seeing the extra love through the unexpected experience of disability parenting.