"If God has given you a story to tell, do you know how to tell it in a way that gets results?"

This is the question we are going to answer today as I tell the story of how I was called into ministry, and then share what I have learned over the past few years about how to tell a story in a way that motivates people to take action. So join us and find out what the cub scouts have to do with disability ministry at my church, why the words you use aren't the most important thing you communicate, and in a Wonderful Works Talks first- find out what moved me to tears (and yes, you will have to wait to the end to hear that part of the story - but it's worth it.) Excited for this one because your story matters and so does how you tell it!

Show Notes: Tips for Telling Your Story

Barb Stanley bio:

Barb Stanley is the Founder and President of Wonderful Works Ministry, an online disability ministry resource center that specializes in creating tools that churches need to support families impacted by disability through free training videos, classroom tools, and adapted kids' Bible stories. She has a background in graphic design, church leadership, and ministry mobilization, and started her church's disability ministry. Barb grew up with a brother who has autism and an intellectual disability and she is a passionate advocate for disability ministry. She lives in Ohio with her husband, Brandon, and they have two grown sons. She is also the host of the Wonderful Works Talks podcast.

A quick note on disability terms:

Before you listen, I wanted to talk to you about something important about our podcast, and that is how we will be referring to disability during our discussions. We want you to know that at Wonderful Works Ministry, we know that words matter. We will strive to use preferred language regarding disability. But we also understand that preferred terms change over time and also can be subjective and vary from person to person, even among those with a shared diagnosis. With this in mind, we ask that you understand that we, here at Wonderful Works, and our guests may use a variety of terms on this show and in our resources. Please know that we will always approach language with inclusion, dignity and respect, and we hope you will too. Thank for listening!

One more quick note:

The views and opinions expressed in our show are those of our guests and do not necessarily reflect those of Wonderful Works Ministry. Wonderful Works Ministry does not provide medical, legal, or therapeutic advice or services. Rather, we provide general information regarding disability ministry. The information provided in our content does not replace the advice of medical, legal, or educational professionals. Wonderful Works Ministry is not responsible for any information or services provided by third parties. It is recommended that you use independent judgement when considering any resource associated with serving those who have been impacted by disability. Thank you.

"Do you think how communities are portrayed in the media impacts how they are accepted? And what if a community is portrayed in a way that is meant to be helpful, but is actually harmful?"

In this episode, we dive head-first into these two thought-provoking questions as we talk to disability advocate and radio host, Cam Wells. Cam is a childhood stroke survivor, the host of the syndicated radio program Handi-Link, and passionate about how disability is portrayed in the media. He is also a man of faith and we get real about what is helpful and what is hurtful regarding disability and church too. Let me tell you, this interview is chocked full of things that will make you think more deeply and change your perspective.

Cam Wells Bio:

Cam Wells is a stroke survivor and a four-time graduate of St. Clair College with a strong passion for disability rights and inclusive storytelling in the media. He started the show over 18 years ago to change how disability stories are typically portrayed, advocating for a middle ground perspective rather than only portraying people with disabilities as either "bitter or really inspirational". His work has been recognized at both local and national levels in Canada.

More From Cam -

Listen to Handi-Link on CJAM 99.1 in one of these ways:

• Live Broadcast: It broadcasts on CJAM 99.1 FM in Windsor, Ontario, every Thursday from 11:00 am to 11:30 am (GMT-5/EST)
• Syndication: The show is syndicated and available on various community radio stations and platforms across Canada.
• Online: Episodes and links to specific interviews can be found here.

If you think your story would be a great feature for Handi-Link please email Cam at wellscameron@hotmail.com and put "Interview Request" in the subject line.

A quick note on disability terms:

Before you listen, I wanted to talk to you about something important about our podcast, and that is how we will be referring to disability during our discussions. We want you to know that at Wonderful Works Ministry, we know that words matter. We will strive to use preferred language regarding disability. But we also understand that preferred terms change over time and also can be subjective and vary from person to person, even among those with a shared diagnosis. With this in mind, we ask that you understand that we, here at Wonderful Works, and our guests may use a variety of terms on this show and in our resources. Please know that we will always approach language with inclusion, dignity and respect, and we hope you will too. Thank for listening!

One more quick note:

The views and opinions expressed in our show are those of our guests and do not necessarily reflect those of Wonderful Works Ministry. Wonderful Works Ministry does not provide medical, legal, or therapeutic advice or services. Rather, we provide general information regarding disability ministry. The information provided in our content does not replace the advice of medical, legal, or educational professionals. Wonderful Works Ministry is not responsible for any information or services provided by third parties. It is recommended that you use independent judgement when considering any resource associated with serving those who have been impacted by disability. Thank you.

"When you think about advocacy, do you think about representing Christ?"

This is the soul-searching question that we tackle today as we talk about disability advocacy with the co-founder of Raising Autistic Disciples, Larah Roberts. Larah is the mother of a son with Level 2 autism, and she helps us navigate where to start before an advocacy meeting, how to know whether you should stay or go at church, and why creating accessible churches is world changing. Plus, find out what statement made me stop cold in my tracks. This is an important conversation every parent and church leader shoudl listen to.

Larah Roberts Bio:

Larah Roberts is the Director of Operations for Key Ministry. As a mother of three, including a son with autism, Larah’s passion for disability ministry is deeply personal. Along with her husband Collin, Larah co-authored the book “How to Advocate and Stay Christian,” offering support and guidance to parents of special needs children. Larah also encourages parents on her podcast and Instagram at @RaisingAutisticDisciples. Outside of work, she loves spending time with her family, road trips, thrifting finds, enjoying coffee with friends, and being a WNBA fan.

More From Larah -

Follow her on Instagram at Raisingautisticdisciples.

Get her books on Amazon today: How to Advocate and Stay Christian and Letters to Lindsey: Seeing Your Child's Autism Diagnosis Through A Gospel Lens

Learn more about Key Ministry here.

A quick note on disability terms:

Before you listen, I wanted to talk to you about something important about our podcast, and that is how we will be referring to disability during our discussions. We want you to know that at Wonderful Works Ministry, we know that words matter. We will strive to use preferred language regarding disability. But we also understand that preferred terms change over time and also can be subjective and vary from person to person, even among those with a shared diagnosis. With this in mind, we ask that you understand that we, here at Wonderful Works, and our guests may use a variety of terms on this show and in our resources. Please know that we will always approach language with inclusion, dignity and respect, and we hope you will too. Thank for listening!

One more quick note:

The views and opinions expressed in our show are those of our guests and do not necessarily reflect those of Wonderful Works Ministry. Wonderful Works Ministry does not provide medical, legal, or therapeutic advice or services. Rather, we provide general information regarding disability ministry. The information provided in our content does not replace the advice of medical, legal, or educational professionals. Wonderful Works Ministry is not responsible for any information or services provided by third parties. It is recommended that you use independent judgement when considering any resource associated with serving those who have been impacted by disability. Thank you.

"Who were you before society told you who to be?"

This is the question that Steven McCoy, the founder of Spoken Heroes and the world's first Black DeafBlind journalist, is asking. So, join us today as we wrestle with that question. Plus, why believing in your true worth can make all the difference in life, especially when life feels hard. Why we should never make assumptions about people, and how we can help bridge the gap between communities so that we can all work together – literally.

Content Warning: In today’s episode we do talk about some heavy things such as suicidal ideation. So, if this is a sensitive subject for you, please be advised before you listen.

Closed Captioning: Today's episode is available in video format with closed captioning here.

Steven McCoy bio:

Steven McCoy is the founder and President of Spoken Heroes. Making history as the World’s First Black DeafBlind Journalist, Steven has inspired many with his achievements. His impressive list of accomplishments includes serving as the Board of Director for the Usher Syndrome Coalition and on the Leadership Board for Foundation Fighting Blindness, the DeafBlind Facilitator for The National Federation for The Blind of New Jersey. Steven served as a fellow in a fellowship at Disability Belongs in Entertainment and News Media and Writing Pad for TV Comedy 101 where he was coached by Todd Waldman on television script development. He also was a Script Writer for BET’s “106th & Park”. Steven became a Host for Radio Disney and became a Disney Alumni Inductee, he was honored as one of 2022’s AT&T’s “Black Future Maker.” He is a Representative for the State of New Jersey Rehabilitation Council and holds an Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Certificate from New York State. Steven has been recognized with the Oklahoma State Award by the Oklahoma State Rehabilitation Council, the Excellence Award by the Multicultural Media Correspondents Association, and the “Take the Lead” award by the National Association of Black Journalists. Steven consulted on various animation films and gaming projects to implement inclusion. Steven made the Forbes Founder’s “40 Under 40” List. Through his work at Spoken Heroes and the production of the “Sessions with Steven” podcast, produced under his media company Spoken Entertainment, Steven continues to make a positive impact in the community and hopes to leave a legacy through Spoken Heroes.

Learn more: Spokenheroes.org

A quick note on disability terms:

Before you listen, I wanted to talk to you about something important about our podcast, and that is how we will be referring to disability during our discussions. We want you to know that at Wonderful Works Ministry, we know that words matter. We will strive to use preferred language regarding disability. But we also understand that preferred terms change over time and also can be subjective and vary from person to person, even among those with a shared diagnosis. With this in mind, we ask that you understand that we, here at Wonderful Works, and our guests may use a variety of terms on this show and in our resources. Please know that we will always approach language with inclusion, dignity and respect, and we hope you will too. Thank for listening!

One more quick note:

The views and opinions expressed in our show are those of our guests and do not necessarily reflect those of Wonderful Works Ministry. Wonderful Works Ministry does not provide medical, legal, or therapeutic advice or services. Rather, we provide general information regarding disability ministry. The information provided in our content does not replace the advice of medical, legal, or educational professionals. Wonderful Works Ministry is not responsible for any information or services provided by third parties. It is recommended that you use independent judgement when considering any resource associated with serving those who have been impacted by disability. Thank you.

Where are you with your attitude towards disability? Really? And why does this question matter so much for all of us?

Today, we are going to talk to Dan Vander Plaats, vice president of development at Acts 29 and the author of There is No Asterisk – 5 Stages of Changing Attitudes. And we are going to find out why pondering this question may just change your church. This, is a very thought-provoking and encouraging conversation that you won’t want to miss. So, join us as we dig into the 5 stages, learn how they apply to both churches and advocates, and why, even when we struggle with our identity – God never does.

To download a free copy of the 5 Stages ebook and the 5 Stages poster, please click⁠ here⁠.

Dan Vander Plaats Bio:

Dan is the author of There is No Asterisk - 5 Stages of Changing Attitudes. He is also the Vice President of Development for Acts 29 and has over 20 years of experience in Christian leadership and ministry fundraising. He has a master's degree in Nonprofit Administration and a certificate in Church and Christian Ministry Leadership. He and his wife, Denise, have two children.

A quick note on disability terms:

Before you listen, I wanted to talk to you about something important about our podcast, and that is how we will be referring to disability during our discussions. We want you to know that at Wonderful Works Ministry, we know that words matter. We will strive to use preferred language regarding disability. But we also understand that preferred terms change over time and also can be subjective and vary from person to person, even among those with a shared diagnosis. With this in mind, we ask that you understand that we, here at Wonderful Works, and our guests may use a variety of terms on this show and in our resources. Please know that we will always approach language with inclusion, dignity and respect, and we hope you will too. Thank for listening!

One more quick note:

The views and opinions expressed in our show are those of our guests and do not necessarily reflect those of Wonderful Works Ministry. Wonderful Works Ministry does not provide medical, legal, or therapeutic advice or services. Rather, we provide general information regarding disability ministry. The information provided in our content does not replace the advice of medical, legal, or educational professionals. Wonderful Works Ministry is not responsible for any information or services provided by third parties. It is recommended that you use independent judgement when considering any resource associated with serving those who have been impacted by disability. Thank you.

"If a child had a severe allergic reaction at your church, would you know what to do?"

Today we are talking to Joanne Giorgi, founder of the Natalie Giorgi Sunshine Foundation, an organization that is working to save lives by spreading public awareness about food allergy safety. Join us as Joanne shares her family’s story, we talk through some things churches should consider when it comes to supporting food allergy families, and the importance of faith through it all. A very important conversation that every church leader should hear.

Important Notice about this Podcast: A quick note about this interview before we start. Today we are talking about a serious medical condition. Please know that we are not providing legal or medical advice, and this interview does not replace the advice of medical, legal, or educational professionals. Our intent is to simply provide some general information to get the conversation started.

Joanne Giorgi Bio:

Joanne Giorgi graduated from Santa Clara University with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Marketing. After graduation, Joanne worked for the GAP Corporation as a corporate buyer for 7 years. Upon the birth of her identical twin daughters, Natalie and Danielle, Joanne became a full time mom. For the past 13 years Joanne has been an advocate for her children’s health needs. She is now devoted to advocating for all children with food allergies.

To learn more about the Natalie Giorgi Sunshine Foundation please visit nateam.org

For more information on food allergies please visit:

https://aafa.org/

https://kidswithfoodallergies.org/

https://www.cdc.gov/school-health-conditions/media/pdfs/20_316712-A_FA_guide_508tag.pdf

https://kidswithfoodallergies.org/advocacy/key-policy-issues/food-allergies-in-child-care-settings/

https://www.foodallergyawareness.org/

One more quick note:The views and opinions expressed in our show are those of our guests and do not necessarily reflect those of Wonderful Works Ministry. Wonderful Works Ministry does not provide medical, legal, or therapeutic advice or services. Rather, we provide general information regarding disability ministry. The information provided in our content does not replace the advice of medical, legal, or educational professionals. Wonderful Works Ministry is not responsible for any information or services provided by third parties. It is recommended that you use independent judgement when considering any resource associated with serving those who have been impacted by disability. Thank you.

"Why do you think it's important for the church to ask people living with chronic medical conditions - what do you want us to know?"

Today we are talking to Dr. Allison Hampton, the founder of Living Chronic Faith, an online community for people of faith who are living with chronic medical conditions.

Join us as we hear how Allie's own experience with Lupus inspired her to support others, how her time with paralysis taught her what her true purpose was, what the church needs to know when talking about healing, and so much more.

Dr. Allison Hampton Bio

Dr. Allison J. Hampton is a Christian speaker, playwright, author, and Christian life coach who is living with four chronic autoimmune diagnoses. Through her medical journey, she has learned how faith in God changes how we perceive and experience life for the better. She believes that God desires for every person He created to be happy and whole, and that His plan for our lives can be discovered through relationship with Him. Her goal is to share her insights with others who may find themselves on a journey toward purpose and maximized potential and to facilitate a community in which they can walk that journey together using the Word of God as a roadmap. Allison holds a Doctor of Ministry degree from Liberty University and a Master of Divinity from Southeastern University, and lives to share God’s message of hope, restoration, and life with as many people as possible.

To learn more about Living Chronic Faith, please visit livingchronicfaith.com

A quick note on disability terms:

Before you listen, I wanted to talk to you about something important about our podcast, and that is how we will be referring to disability during our discussions. We want you to know that at Wonderful Works Ministry, we know that words matter. We will strive to use preferred language regarding disability. But we also understand that preferred terms change over time and also can be subjective and vary from person to person, even among those with a shared diagnosis. With this in mind, we ask that you understand that we, here at Wonderful Works, and our guests may use a variety of terms on this show and in our resources. Please know that we will always approach language with inclusion, dignity and respect, and we hope you will too. Thank for listening!

One more quick note:

The views and opinions expressed in our show are those of our guests and do not necessarily reflect those of Wonderful Works Ministry. Wonderful Works Ministry does not provide medical, legal, or therapeutic advice or services. Rather, we provide general information regarding disability ministry. The information provided in our content does not replace the advice of medical, legal, or educational professionals. Wonderful Works Ministry is not responsible for any information or services provided by third parties. It is recommended that you use independent judgement when considering any resource associated with serving those who have been impacted by disability. Thank you.

"When life gets tough how do you handle the breakdown BEFORE the breakthrough?"

Today, we are going to talk to Tom and Julie Meekins, founders of Champions 4 Parents, a ministry whose mission is to provide love, support, and resources to parents raising children who have been impacted by disability.

Join us as we hear from Tom and Julie all about the most uncertain time in their life, after their daughter, Amy, was born with CHARGE syndrome. Find out how they really felt when life looked more like a breakdown than a breakthrough, how that impacted their relationship with Christ, and what we can all learn for our own lives.

Tom Meekins Bio

Tom is a graduate of Westminster Seminary and the University of Delaware. Before taking an early retirement to go into full time ministry, Tom had rich employment experiences as a teacher and business manager at a Christian school and also as a software engineer/systems administrator in the DC Metro area.

He has a passion to help dads and moms know that we can do nothing apart from total dependance on God and the grace of God. His goal is to point people to Jesus as Savior and as the pioneer and perfecter of our faith. His message is that God is in control and he wants to lead parents to pray “Thy will be done.” Tom wants to encourage dads especially to total surrender and dependence on our Lord and his Word.

Julie Meekins Bio

Julie is excited to pursue the vision God gave her to empower and equip parents whose families are impacted by disabilities (defined as learning struggles, hidden disabilities, and very obvious disabilities).

The question she sought the answer for most often was, “How can we be the parents that EACH of our children needs?” She knows other parents are asking the same question. This question has fueled her passion to help other parents.

Find More from Tom and Julie Here

www.champions4parents.com

To learn more about CHARGE Syndrome please visit: www.chargesyndrome.org

To learn more about Wonderful Works Ministry please visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠wonderfulworksministry.org⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

.A quick note on disability terms:

Before you listen, I wanted to talk to you about something important about our podcast, and that is how we will be referring to disability during our discussions. We want you to know that at Wonderful Works Ministry, we know that words matter. We will strive to use preferred language regarding disability. But we also understand that preferred terms change over time and also can be subjective and vary from person to person, even among those with a shared diagnosis. With this in mind, we ask that you understand that we, here at Wonderful Works, and our guests may use a variety of terms on this show and in our resources. Please know that we will always approach language with inclusion, dignity and respect, and we hope you will too. Thank for listening!

One more quick note:

The views and opinions expressed in our show are those of our guests and do not necessarily reflect those of Wonderful Works Ministry. Wonderful Works Ministry does not provide medical, legal, or therapeutic advice or services. Rather, we provide general information regarding disability ministry. The information provided in our content does not replace the advice of medical, legal, or educational professionals. Wonderful Works Ministry is not responsible for any information or services provided by third parties. It is recommended that you use independent judgement when considering any resource associated with serving those who have been impacted by disability. Thank you.