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