Speaking Life Into Motherhood ~ Rhythms, Child Development, Homeschool, Special Needs, Speech Delay, Systems, Autism, ADHD, Neurodiversity, Disabilities

Speaking Life Into Motherhood ~ Rhythms, Child Development, Homeschool, Special Needs, Speech Delay, Systems, Autism, ADHD, Neurodiversity, Disabilities

By Elyse Scheeler MS CCC-SLP, Special Needs & Homeschool Strategy Coach, AdvocateReligion & SpiritualityChristianityEducationSelf-ImprovementParentingKids & Family
Download on the App Store

Speaking Life Into Motherhood ~ Rhythms, Child Development, Homeschool, Special Needs, Speech Delay, Systems, Autism, ADHD, Neurodiversity, Disabilities episodes

  • 17 Is Autism Really God's Design? The Faith Crisis Every Christian Special Needs Mom Faces
    • Are you struggling to find support and resources as a parent of a child with special needs? 
    • Do you sometimes feel distant from God, questioning His purpose for your child's challenges? 
    • Have you found yourself focused on "fixing" your child rather than embracing who they are? 

    In this episode, we welcome JJ LeVan, an award-winning author and mother who shares her 27-year journey of raising a son with autism. JJ opens up about the challenges of navigating autism in the late 1990s when resources were scarce and awareness was minimal. She discusses her transition from wanting to "fix" her son to embracing and celebrating who God created him to be, which ultimately inspired her children's book "He Meant You to Be You."


    Featured Guest

    JJ LeVan is a wife, mother to a blended family of five adult children, and an award-winning author. Her oldest son's autism diagnosis in 1998 inspired her advocacy work and her children's book "He Meant You to Be You," which celebrates God's love for uniquely created children. JJ blogs about her family's autism journey at "Travels with My Rain Man."


    Connect with JJ LeVan

    • FB: https://www.facebook.com/JJLEVANWRITER/
      IG:  https://www.instagram.com/jjlevanwriter/
      Website: https://www.jjlevan.com/
      He Meant You to Be You: http://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CHPT7YN6
      Church Locator: https://keyministry.org/joinchurchnetwork/
    • Special offer for listeners: Free paperback copy of "He Meant You to Be You" (visit JJLevan.com for details)


    Resources Mentioned

    • KeyMinistry.org - Resources for churches developing disability ministries
    • "He Meant You to Be You" - JJ's children's book

    Keywords: Adult Children With Disabilities, Autism, 



    While you're here, please leave a quick rating or review! I pray this episode blesses you! Remember, you don't just have to survive mama- you can thrive!

    Connect with the host: Elyse Scheeler

    • Subscribe: Speaking Life Into Motherhood
    • Website: www.speakinglife.co/motherhood
    • Email: [email protected]
    • Facebook Group: Christian Special Needs Moms: Simple Systems, Energy & Natural Support
    • Email Newsletter: https://speakinglife.co/subscribe/
    • Foundational Wellness Bundle + Freebies! https://link.doterra.com/VfA_h5
    • Speaking Life Into Homeschool Group Coaching Program: http://www.speakinglife.co/homeschoolplan

    Disclaimer
    The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those of the guests and hosts and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Speaking Life Into Motherhood. None of the advice or discussion on the podcast is medical advice. Always consult with your medical provider before using any supplements, essential oils, or therapy methods. 

    29 min
  • 16 Jesus as the First Speech Therapist? Finding God's Calling in Speech Therapy Services
    • Have you ever wondered how God's calling can lead you through unexpected career paths?
    • What happens when your passion, a community need, and God's will perfectly align?
    • How can speech therapy be viewed through a Christian lens, and did you know Jesus might have been the first speech therapist?!
    • Are you struggling with accepting your child's developmental delays or special needs? How can faith guide you through this journey?

    In this episode, I sit down with Timea Hyatt, a devout Catholic wife, mother of two, speech-language pathologist, business owner, and soon-to-be PhD student. Timea shares her fascinating journey from campus ministry to becoming a speech-language pathologist and how she now combines both passions to serve families in her community.

    Highlights include:

    • Timea's background in campus ministry and how she discerned her calling to pursue speech pathology
    • How she identified a need in her church community and started her own private practice to serve families with children who have special needs
    • The biblical foundation for speech therapy, including the fascinating parallel to Jesus healing a man with a speech impediment
    • Practical advice for parents who suspect their child might have a speech delay
    • The importance of trusting your instincts as a parent and the value of early intervention
    • Timea's unexpected journey toward pursuing a PhD and her vision for bringing Christian values into academia

    Whether you're a parent of a child with special needs, a speech therapy professional, or someone discerning God's calling in your life, this episode offers inspiration and practical insights on following God's plan even when it takes unexpected turns.

    Connect with Timea:

    Facebook: Timea Hyatt SLP

    Instagram: Timea Hyatt SLP


    While you're here, please leave a quick rating or review! I pray this episode blesses you! Remember, you don't just have to survive mama- you can thrive!

    Connect with the host: Elyse Scheeler

    • Subscribe: Speaking Life Into Motherhood
    • Website: www.speakinglife.co/motherhood
    • Email: [email protected]
    • Facebook Group: Christian Special Needs Moms: Simple Systems, Energy & Natural Support
    • Email Newsletter: https://speakinglife.co/subscribe/
    • Foundational Wellness Bundle + Freebies! https://link.doterra.com/VfA_h5
    • Speaking Life Into Homeschool Group Coaching Program: http://www.speakinglife.co/homeschoolplan

    Disclaimer
    The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those of the guests and hosts and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Speaking Life Into Motherhood. None of the advice or discussion on the podcast is medical advice. Always consult with your medical provider before using any supplements, essential oils, or therapy methods. 

    30 min
  • EP 15 Creating 'Perfectly Loved' Spaces: Effective Programs for Teens and Adults with Special Needs

    Are you looking for guidance when life takes an unexpected special needs turn?

    Do you want to explore or create opportunities for adults with special needs in your community?

    In this heartfelt episode, I speak with Ana Munoz, bestselling author of "Perfectly Loved" and dedicated advocate for the special needs community. Anna shares her journey as a mother of a daughter with Down syndrome and how this unexpected path led her to discover deeper purpose and meaning.

    Now, with her daughter at 28 years old, Ana has become a powerful voice for the special needs community. She shares insights about her work establishing ABLE Ministries on Kauai, organizing annual proms, and creating meaningful social opportunities for adults with special needs who often face isolation after aging out of school programs.


    Connect with Ana

    • Email: [email protected]
    • Website: https://www.anamunozlive.com/
    • Facebook: Ana Munoz and ABLE Ministries
    • Book: "Perfectly Loved"


    Resources Mentioned

    • Young Life Capernaum
    • ABLE Ministries

    Keywords

    Down syndrome, special needs, faith journey, ABLE Ministries, community building, adult services, employment opportunities, parenting, acceptance, celebration, ministry, Kauai, prom, life skills, social skills



    While you're here, please leave a quick rating or review! I pray this episode blesses you! Remember, you don't just have to survive mama- you can thrive!

    Connect with the host: Elyse Scheeler

    • Subscribe: Speaking Life Into Motherhood
    • Website: www.speakinglife.co/motherhood
    • Email: [email protected]
    • Facebook Group: Christian Special Needs Moms: Simple Systems, Energy & Natural Support
    • Email Newsletter: https://speakinglife.co/subscribe/
    • Foundational Wellness Bundle + Freebies! https://link.doterra.com/VfA_h5
    • Speaking Life Into Homeschool Group Coaching Program: http://www.speakinglife.co/homeschoolplan

    Disclaimer
    The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those of the guests and hosts and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Speaking Life Into Motherhood. None of the advice or discussion on the podcast is medical advice. Always consult with your medical provider before using any supplements, essential oils, or therapy methods. 

    29 min
  • 14 Is Mom Brain Impacting Your Special Needs Parenting? Holistic Faith-Based Solutions You Need Today

    Have you ever blamed "mom brain" for your forgetfulness, only to wonder if there's something more serious happening when you parent a child with special needs?

    What if the cognitive challenges you're experiencing are actually part of God's design, preparing your brain to be the perfect advocate for your child?

    Could simple, scripture-supported self-care practices and holistic strategies dramatically improve your mental clarity without taking time away from your family?


    Episode Summary

    In this episode, Elyse explains the science behind "mom brain" and why it affects special needs mothers with particular intensity. Drawing from both current neuroscience research and biblical wisdom, she explores how God's design for motherhood includes built-in cognitive adaptations that make you an exceptional caregiver—while sometimes leaving you struggling to remember where you put your keys.

    Listeners will discover three practical, science-backed strategies that honor God's design for brain health: nutrition interventions, a 2-minute reset ritual based on Jesus's own practice of withdrawal, and simple environmental detox principles aligned with biblical teachings on purity and cleanliness.


    Key Highlights

    • Research confirms motherhood literally changes your brain structure, with special needs parenting amplifying these effects
    • The story of Hannah in 1 Samuel reflects the intense focus and dedication special needs mothers demonstrate daily
    • When Martha was "worried and upset about many things," Jesus gently redirected her focus—a powerful lesson for overwhelmed special needs moms
    • The Proverbs 31 woman "watches over the affairs of her household"—and your cognitive health is essential to doing this well


    Practical Takeaways

    • Start each day with "morning brain fuel"—a combination of protein, healthy fats, and antioxidants
    • Practice the 2-minute reset ritual: deep breathing while praying Psalm 46:10, followed by cross-body movements
    • Replace conventional cleaning products with a simple, non-toxic alternative to reduce neurotoxic exposure


    Special Offer

    Register for our upcoming "Boost Your Brain" workshop on 3/26/25 and receive a comprehensive workbook with implementation strategies. Invite two friends who register, and you'll receive a free Sleep roller blend as our thank you gift!

    Register at: https://speakinglife.co/brain

    keywords: mom brain, cognitive health, brain strategies, parenting, special needs, nutrition, mindfulness, environmental toxins, brain function, self-care


    While you're here, please leave a quick rating or review! I pray this episode blesses you! Remember, you don't just have to survive mama- you can thrive!

    Connect with the host: Elyse Scheeler

    • Subscribe: Speaking Life Into Motherhood
    • Website: www.speakinglife.co/motherhood
    • Email: [email protected]
    • Facebook Group: Christian Special Needs Moms: Simple Systems, Energy & Natural Support
    • Email Newsletter: https://speakinglife.co/subscribe/
    • Foundational Wellness Bundle + Freebies! https://link.doterra.com/VfA_h5
    • Speaking Life Into Homeschool Group Coaching Program: http://www.speakinglife.co/homeschoolplan

    Disclaimer
    The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those of the guests and hosts and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Speaking Life Into Motherhood. None of the advice or discussion on the podcast is medical advice. Always consult with your medical provider before using any supplements, essential oils, or therapy methods. 

    17 min
  • 13 Sensory Processing Disorder, Dyslexia, Communication Delays, & Hope: Faith-Based Special Needs Advocacy & Parenting

    Have you ever felt alone in your journey parenting a child with special needs?

    Do you struggle with balancing advocacy for your child while maintaining your faith?

    What if the challenges your family faces are actually opportunities for God to reveal His power?


    Episode Highlights

    • Rachael Jenneman shares her unique perspective as both a sibling to someone with severe autism and a parent of children with various learning and processing needs
    • The difference between grief as a sibling versus as a parent of someone with special needs
    • Navigating the frustrating middle ground when your children have needs but don't qualify for services
    • Practical strategies Rachael implemented as a children's pastor to accommodate different learning styles
    • The importance of parent-teacher communication and collaboration
    • Rachael's powerful testimony about finding strength in dependence on God
    • The transformative moment when Rachael went from "loving" to being "in love with" her son
    • Finding purpose in our challenges through John 9 - our uniqueness exists so God's power can be shown


    Connect with Rachael Jenneman

    • Facebook, Instagram, TikTok: @RachaelJenneman
    • Website: RachaelJenneman.com
    • Radio show: "Unique on Purpose"


    While you're here, please leave a quick rating or review! I pray this episode blesses you! Remember, you don't just have to survive mama- you can thrive!

    Connect with the host: Elyse Scheeler

    • Subscribe: Speaking Life Into Motherhood
    • Website: www.speakinglife.co/motherhood
    • Email: [email protected]
    • Facebook Group: Christian Special Needs Moms: Simple Systems, Energy & Natural Support
    • Email Newsletter: https://speakinglife.co/subscribe/
    • Foundational Wellness Bundle + Freebies! https://link.doterra.com/VfA_h5
    • Speaking Life Into Homeschool Group Coaching Program: http://www.speakinglife.co/homeschoolplan

    Disclaimer
    The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those of the guests and hosts and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Speaking Life Into Motherhood. None of the advice or discussion on the podcast is medical advice. Always consult with your medical provider before using any supplements, essential oils, or therapy methods. 

    39 min
  • 12// How to Homeschool a Child with Special Needs: Navigating Life Skills, Academics, Disability, & Speech Delays

    Are you wondering how to homeschool a child with special needs? Curious about balancing therapy with education? Looking for encouragement in your unexpected parenting journey?

    In this heartfelt episode of the podcast, host I welcome Sarah Frazer, author of "I Didn't Sign Up for This," to discuss her experience homeschooling her nonverbal daughter with special needs. Sarah opens up about adopting her daughter from China, discovering her daughter's significant special needs were more complex than initially understood, and how she navigated the grief and acceptance process.

    Sarah shares practical wisdom about:

    • Finding peace in the unexpected twists of parenthood
    • The benefits of one-on-one instruction for her nonverbal daughter
    • How she manages weekly therapy sessions alongside homeschooling
    • Making educational decisions based on individual progress rather than age
    • Balancing the needs of all five of her children

    This conversation offers both practical advice and emotional support for parents considering homeschooling their special needs child. Sarah emphasizes the importance of looking for small victories, setting realistic expectations, and remembering that you're not alone in feeling overwhelmed. Her message of "progress over perfection" provides hope for parents on similar journeys.


    Connect with Sarah:

    Website: https://sarahefrazer.com/

    Book: I Didn't Sign Up For This

    Podcast: Psalms to Help You Sleep




    While you're here, please leave a quick rating or review! I pray this episode blesses you! Remember, you don't just have to survive mama- you can thrive!

    Connect with the host: Elyse Scheeler

    • Subscribe: Speaking Life Into Motherhood
    • Website: www.speakinglife.co/motherhood
    • Email: [email protected]
    • Facebook Group: Christian Special Needs Moms: Simple Systems, Energy & Natural Support
    • Email Newsletter: https://speakinglife.co/subscribe/
    • Foundational Wellness Bundle + Freebies! https://link.doterra.com/VfA_h5
    • Speaking Life Into Homeschool Group Coaching Program: http://www.speakinglife.co/homeschoolplan

    Disclaimer
    The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those of the guests and hosts and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Speaking Life Into Motherhood. None of the advice or discussion on the podcast is medical advice. Always consult with your medical provider before using any supplements, essential oils, or therapy methods. 

    33 min
  • 11 Advocacy Strategies for when Doctors Say “Wait and See”: Standing Firm And Finding Joy As A Christian Special Needs Parent

    Has a doctor ever dismissed your concerns about your child with "they'll grow out of it"? 

    Have you ever felt like you're the only one who truly sees your child's struggles? 

    Does it feel like you're alone on this special needs journey with no roadmap? 

    Have you wondered how your faith fits into the unexpected path of special needs parenting?

    If you answered yes to any of these questions, this episode is for you.


    Episode Description

    In this powerful episode, we sit down with Erica Kingsbury, a Christian author, blogger, and special needs advocate. Erica shares her journey of persistent advocacy for her son Jack, who was diagnosed with Williams syndrome at age two and a half after years of unexplained symptoms. From having her concerns dismissed by medical providers to finding her voice as "mama bear," Erica's story offers hope and practical guidance for parents navigating the special needs journey. Learn how her experiences led to her book "Not Alone: God's Presence on the Path of the Special Needs Mom" and how she found unexpected purpose and joy through her family's journey.


    Resources Mentioned

    • Book: "Not Alone: God's Presence on the Path of the Special Needs Mom" by Erica Kingsbury
    • Birth to Three early intervention program
    • Williams Syndrome information and support groups

    Connect with Erica Kingsbury

    • Instagram: @erika.kingsbury
    • Website: erikakingsbury.com



    While you're here, please leave a quick rating or review! I pray this episode blesses you! Remember, you don't just have to survive mama- you can thrive!

    Connect with the host: Elyse Scheeler

    • Subscribe: Speaking Life Into Motherhood
    • Website: www.speakinglife.co/motherhood
    • Email: [email protected]
    • Facebook Group: Christian Special Needs Moms: Simple Systems, Energy & Natural Support
    • Email Newsletter: https://speakinglife.co/subscribe/
    • Foundational Wellness Bundle + Freebies! https://link.doterra.com/VfA_h5
    • Speaking Life Into Homeschool Group Coaching Program: http://www.speakinglife.co/homeschoolplan

    Disclaimer
    The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those of the guests and hosts and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Speaking Life Into Motherhood. None of the advice or discussion on the podcast is medical advice. Always consult with your medical provider before using any supplements, essential oils, or therapy methods. 

    33 min
  • 10 Stop Carrying Birth Guilt: Faith-Based Healing for Moms Who Feel Like They Failed From Day One, How To Heal Birth Trauma

    Is your body still carrying the effects of a difficult birth? Could your unexplained fatigue or emotional triggers be connected to unprocessed birth trauma? What if seeing Jesus in your birth story could transform your relationship with trauma?

    In this episode, functional women's health coach Brigid Tebaldi brings an insightful conversation about healing from birth trauma. Brigid shares her unique approach that combines functional medicine with faith-based healing to help mothers recover from difficult birth experiences.

    In this episode you'll learn:

    • Elyse shares her personal birth trauma story and path to healing
    • Understanding how unresolved trauma manifests physically in motherhood
    • How to find Jesus in your birth story for deeper healing
    • Practical first steps toward trauma recovery at any stage of motherhood
    • The importance of community and self-care in the healing journey

    Whether recently postpartum or years into motherhood, this conversation offers validation, hope, and actionable guidance for women carrying the weight of traumatic birth experiences.

    Connect with Brigid:

    Instagram: brigid.tebaldi

    Website: https://www.loretowellness.com/


    While you're here, please leave a quick rating or review! I pray this episode blesses you! Remember, you don't just have to survive mama- you can thrive!

    Connect with the host: Elyse Scheeler

    • Subscribe: Speaking Life Into Motherhood
    • Website: www.speakinglife.co/motherhood
    • Email: [email protected]
    • Facebook Group: Christian Special Needs Moms: Simple Systems, Energy & Natural Support
    • Email Newsletter: https://speakinglife.co/subscribe/
    • Foundational Wellness Bundle + Freebies! https://link.doterra.com/VfA_h5
    • Speaking Life Into Homeschool Group Coaching Program: http://www.speakinglife.co/homeschoolplan

    Disclaimer
    The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those of the guests and hosts and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Speaking Life Into Motherhood. None of the advice or discussion on the podcast is medical advice. Always consult with your medical provider before using any supplements, essential oils, or therapy methods. 

    27 min
  • 09 Christian Mom's Guide: Using the PACE Method to Find Calm Amidst Chaos and Dysregulation

    Catherine Cowell, a spiritual director and life coach specializing in supporting parents of children with additional needs, shares her journey as an adoptive mother to two boys and introduces us to the transformative PACE model of parenting. She offers a unique perspective on integrating faith with therapeutic parenting approaches.

    Key Topics Covered:

    • Introduction to the PACE model (Playfulness, Acceptance, Curiosity, Empathy)
    • Managing dysregulation in both parents and children
    • Integrating faith with special needs parenting
    • Understanding God as a therapeutic parent
    • Moving from traditional to relationship-based parenting

    Connect with Catherine:

    • Website: lovedcalledgifted.com
    • Parenting Courses: andbreathe.org.uk
    • Podcast: Love Called Gifted


    While you're here, please leave a quick rating or review! I pray this episode blesses you! Remember, you don't just have to survive mama- you can thrive!

    Connect with the host: Elyse Scheeler

    • Subscribe: Speaking Life Into Motherhood
    • Website: www.speakinglife.co/motherhood
    • Email: [email protected]
    • Facebook Group: Christian Special Needs Moms: Simple Systems, Energy & Natural Support
    • Email Newsletter: https://speakinglife.co/subscribe/
    • Foundational Wellness Bundle + Freebies! https://link.doterra.com/VfA_h5
    • Speaking Life Into Homeschool Group Coaching Program: http://www.speakinglife.co/homeschoolplan

    Disclaimer
    The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those of the guests and hosts and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Speaking Life Into Motherhood. None of the advice or discussion on the podcast is medical advice. Always consult with your medical provider before using any supplements, essential oils, or therapy methods. 

    28 min
  • 08 Christian Adoption Guide: What No One Tells You About the Process

    Military spouse and adoptive mom Becca Pass pulls back the curtain on the realities of modern adoption. From navigating questionable industry practices to experiencing adoption disruptions, Becca shares how God transformed her challenging five-year journey into an unexpected ministry. After facing her own struggles, she now serves as a doula and mentor, supporting both birth mothers and adoptive families through their most vulnerable moments. 

    This eye-opening conversation reveals essential insights for families considering adoption, including how to find ethical, Christian-centered adoption professionals and the importance of supporting expectant mothers. Whether you're personally touched by adoption or simply interested in learning more, this episode offers valuable perspective on how God can use our waiting seasons to prepare us for greater purposes than we could have imagined.

    Resources Mentioned:

    • Gifts of Grace Adoption (Lafayette, Indiana)
    • Brave Love Organization
    • Every Moment Holy (book mentioned)

    Connect with Becca:


    While you're here, please leave a quick rating or review! I pray this episode blesses you! Remember, you don't just have to survive mama- you can thrive!

    Connect with the host: Elyse Scheeler

    • Subscribe: Speaking Life Into Motherhood
    • Website: www.speakinglife.co/motherhood
    • Email: [email protected]
    • Facebook Group: Christian Special Needs Moms: Simple Systems, Energy & Natural Support
    • Email Newsletter: https://speakinglife.co/subscribe/
    • Foundational Wellness Bundle + Freebies! https://link.doterra.com/VfA_h5
    • Speaking Life Into Homeschool Group Coaching Program: http://www.speakinglife.co/homeschoolplan

    Disclaimer
    The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those of the guests and hosts and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Speaking Life Into Motherhood. None of the advice or discussion on the podcast is medical advice. Always consult with your medical provider before using any supplements, essential oils, or therapy methods. 

    36 min

About Speaking Life Into Motherhood ~ Rhythms, Child Development, Homeschool, Special Needs, Speech Delay, Systems, Autism, ADHD, Neurodiversity, Disabilities

From the publisher's feed

**Top 3% Globally Ranked Podcast!**


Are you a Christian mom exhausted from  navigating a tough season with your child? Are you worried your child is not developing normally,…