Épisodes

  • Navigating the Journey of Special Needs Advocacy

    Navigating the Journey of Special Needs Advocacy
    Mar 6 2026

    In this episode of the Raising Special Needs Kids podcast, Monica speaks with Lynn Cable about her experiences growing up with her sister Annie, who had significant disabilities. Lynn shares the challenges and triumphs of advocating for Annie within the educational system and the importance of hope for families with special needs. The conversation highlights the evolution of special education, the need for parental advocacy, and the significance of community support for families navigating these challenges.
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    31 min
  • How Faith and Love Transform a Family's Life

    How Faith and Love Transform a Family's Life
    Feb 27 2026

    In this heartfelt episode, Christa breaks down the realities of navigating trauma, learning to meet silent needs, and helping her son develop self-awareness and a relationship with Jesus—all at age six. She shares the transformative power of understanding silent needs versus special needs, the importance of family therapy, and how small acts of love and faith can lead to extraordinary moments. You’ll discover how to recognize and embrace your child's unique journey, even when it feels overwhelming.
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    27 min
  • From Heartbreak to Hope: Adopting and Raising a Child with Special Needs

    From Heartbreak to Hope: Adopting and Raising a Child with Special Needs
    Feb 20 2026

    "You don’t have to do it all alone — even when it feels like everyone’s watching and judging."

    In our latest episode, Monica and guest Pam Hackney dive into the challenges and triumphs of raising a child with special needs. From NICU heartbreak to life-changing therapies, Pam shares it all.

    Remember, there’s a community here to support you, and you’re not alone in this journey. Check out this episode of Raising Special Needs Kids podcast out today!

    What’s been your biggest challenge or breakthrough? We'd love to hear your story!

    #SpecialNeedsJourney #ParentingWithLove #CommunitySupport
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    25 min
  • Faith Through Challenges

    Faith Through Challenges
    Feb 13 2026
    In this episode of Raising Special Needs Kids, host Monica Schmelter engages in a heartfelt conversation with Tammy Osborne about the journey of parenting a child with Down syndrome. They discuss the emotional rollercoaster that comes with a special needs diagnosis, the importance of sibling relationships, and the long-term planning required for families with special needs children. Through their shared experiences, they emphasize the blessings that come from these challenges and the grace needed to navigate them. #DownSyndrome #faith #community #encouragement
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    36 min
  • The Power of Community: Raising a Child with Down Syndrome

    The Power of Community: Raising a Child with Down Syndrome
    Feb 6 2026

    In this episode of Raising Special Needs Kids, host Monica Schmelter speaks with Andrea Robinson, a mother of two, including a daughter with Down Syndrome. They discuss the journey of parenting a child with special needs, the importance of treating children as individuals beyond their diagnoses, and the value of community support. Andrea shares her experiences with inclusive education, the joys and challenges of parenting, and offers encouragement to other parents navigating similar paths.
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    20 min
  • Finding Support, Finding Strength: A Heartfelt Story of Motherhood & Community

    Finding Support, Finding Strength: A Heartfelt Story of Motherhood & Community
    Dec 5 2025
    When Abby received a prenatal diagnosis for her daughter Emma, her world filled with questions, fear, and unknowns. But what she discovered along the way was community, courage, and the beautiful truth that you don’t know what you don’t know — and sometimes what you don’t know yet is joy.
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    23 min
  • Hope in the Hard Moments

    Hope in the Hard Moments
    Nov 28 2025
    This week, Monica sits down with Julie Plummer for one of the most honest, hope-filled conversations we’ve ever shared. Julie opens up about her family’s journey with her son, Crews — the joy, the laughter, the unknowns, and the deeply challenging moments many families walk through silently. From early milestones to unexpected regression… from snuggles and silly moments to navigating aggression, hospital visits, and the fear of the future… Julie’s story reminds every special needs parent: you are not alone, your love matters, and your faith is enough for today. And if you’ve ever felt scared, tired, or unsure what comes next — this conversation is a safe place to exhale. Tune in for real stories, real hope, and a reminder that God sees every step of your journey. #RaisingSpecialNeedsKids #SpecialNeedsFamily #FaithInTheJourney #AutismAwareness #YouAreNotAlone #RealConversationsRealHope
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    23 min
  • Finding Light in the Hard Days

    Finding Light in the Hard Days
    Nov 21 2025
    This week, Monica sits down with Laurel Gallant, a mom navigating a complex medical and developmental journey with her son, Wyatt. From unexpected diagnoses to homeschooling, advocacy, and the power of community, Laurel shares honestly about the hard days and the joy her son brings. Their conversation is a reminder that even when the path is heavy, God meets us with strength for the moment, and often through the people who walk beside us. Listen in for real stories, real encouragement, and the reminder that you are never alone on this journey.
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    26 min