Joni and Friends Ministry Podcast

Joni and Friends
  • 4.9 (247)
  • Christianity
  • Updated Weekly

Joni and Friends shares encouraging conversations about finding hope through your hardships, along with practical ways to include people with disabilities in your church and community.

  1. 1d ago

    The Gospel of Weakness with Dr. Michael Beates

    What if caregiving isn't an interruption to ministry, but ministry itself? For more than three decades, Dr. Michael Beates has served as a theologian, professor, author, and longtime leader with Joni and Friends. But beyond the classroom and the conference stage, his greatest ministry has been at home, alongside his wife,caring for their daughter with profound disabilities, his aging mother-in-law, and their adopted son who has ongoing support needs.  In this thoughtful and deeply personal conversation, Dr. Mike Beates shares how disability reshaped his understanding of the Gospel, the image of God, and what it means to faithfully follow Christ. Together, Stephanie and Mike explore why weakness is central to the Christian life, how caregiving reveals the heart of God, and why every person possesses immeasurable dignity, not because of what they can do, but because they bear God's image. Whether you're a caregiver, a ministry leader, or someone walking through a season of dependence, this episode offers biblical encouragement to see caregiving as holy work and weakness as a place where God's grace shines brightest.   Get a copy of Dr. Michael Beates book, Disability and the Gospel Connect with Mike on Facebook   MENTIONED RESOURCES: Tune in to Joni Eareckson Tada’s Radio and Podcast Programs Get your copy of Considering Sparrows by Kevin Burrell Listen to Jess Ronne’s episode: Caregiving with Grit, Grace, and Joy   KEY QUESTIONS:  Do I define my worth, or the worth of others, by what they can do rather than who they are as an image bearer of God? How has weakness revealed my need for Christ? Who has God placed in my life that needs to experience His love through practical care?   KEY SCRIPTURES: Deuteronomy 30:6, "The Lord your God will circumcise your hearts and the hearts of your descendants, so that you may love him with all your heart and with all your soul, and live." 2 Corinthians 1:3-5, "Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God.For just as we share abundantly in the sufferings of Christ, so also our comfort abounds through Christ." You make this podcast possible! Thank you for your support. Find all podcast resources and message our team.   Follow Joni and Friends on  Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, and TikTok.   Joni and Friends envisions a world where every person with a disability finds hope, dignity, and their place in the body of Christ. Founded by Joni Eareckson Tada, we provide Christ-centered care through Joni's House, Wheels for the World, Retreats and Getaways, and disability ministry training.   Find more encouragement on Joni Eareckson Tada's Sharing Hope podcast and her daily devotional.

    The Gospel of Weakness with Dr. Michael Beates

  2. Aug 13

    How to Thrive in Dementia Care with Lizette Cloete

    How can Christians faithfully care for a loved one living with dementia while holding onto hope, truth, and compassion? In this practical and hope-filled conversation, dementia care expert Lizette Cloete shares biblical wisdom for navigating one of life's most difficult caregiving journeys. Drawing from decades of professional experience, Lizette explains why caregiving is more than a responsibility—it's a God-given calling that shapes our hearts and deepens our dependence on Christ. Stephanie and Lizette discuss how to care for a loved one with dignity, navigate difficult family dynamics, communicate truth without deception, avoid caregiver burnout, and find lasting hope in God’s promises. Whether you're caring for a parent, spouse, or friend with dementia—or simply want to support someone who is—this episode offers practical tools and biblical encouragement for every step of the journey. Connect with Lizette at  ThinkDifferentDementia.com   KEY QUESTIONS: Am I viewing my loved one through God's eyes? Have I accepted caregiving as my situational calling from God? How can I steward my circumstances to better serve my situation?   KEY SCRIPTURES: Psalm 13:1, "How long, Lord? Will you forget me forever? How long will you hide your face from me?" Ephesians 4:15, "Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will grow to become in every respect the mature body of him who is the head, that is, Christ." 2 Corinthians 4:16-18, "Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal." Revelation 21:4, ‘He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death’ or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.” You make this podcast possible! Thank you for your support. Find all podcast resources and message our team.   Follow Joni and Friends on  Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, and TikTok.   Joni and Friends envisions a world where every person with a disability finds hope, dignity, and their place in the body of Christ. Founded by Joni Eareckson Tada, we provide Christ-centered care through Joni's House, Wheels for the World, Retreats and Getaways, and disability ministry training.   Find more encouragement on Joni Eareckson Tada's Sharing Hope podcast and her daily devotional.

    How to Thrive in Dementia Care with Lizette Cloete

  3. Aug 6

    A Biblical Understanding of Pain and Suffering: Pastor Shane Colwell

    How do you trust God when suffering doesn't end? Pastor Shane Colwell knows this question intimately. For more than a decade, he and his family have cared for their son Chase, who lives with profound medical challenges, daily seizures, and ongoing uncertainty. Through years of hardship, Shane has discovered that God's faithfulness is often found not in immediate healing, but in His sustaining presence. In this deeply practical and biblically rich conversation, Pastor Shane answers some of the most difficult questions Christians ask about suffering. Together, he and Stephanie discuss lament, unanswered prayers, chronic illness, disability, grief, marriage, community, and how to cling to God's character when life doesn't make sense. Whether you're navigating disability, caregiving, chronic pain, or a season of unanswered questions, this episode offers compassionate encouragement and biblical hope for every believer. Get your copy of Shane’s book: I KNOW IT HURTS: 6 Biblical Truths from a Pastor and Father of a Medically Fragile Child Find out more about Shane and connect with him at ShaneColwellMinistries.com Follow Shane and his son Chase’s story on Facebook at @ShaneColwellMinistries and @TeamChaseColwell Read Shane’s Blog: ShaneColwellMinistries.com/Blog/ Read Joni Eareckson Tada’s thoughts on how Suffering Reveals the Goodness of the Father   KEY QUESTIONS: How can you grow closer to God while suffering?  What is the difference between lament and complaining?  How does God used suffering to refine your faith?  How can you trust God when healing doesn't come?    KEY SCRIPTURES: 1 Peter 1:6-7, "In this you rejoice, though now for a little while, if necessary, you have been grieved by various trials, so that the tested genuineness of your faith—more precious than gold that perishes though it is tested by fire—may be found to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ." (ESV) 2 Corinthians 12:9, "But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me." Psalm 23:4, "Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me." (ESV) Galatians 6:2, "Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ." You make this podcast possible! Thank you for your support. Find all podcast resources and message our team.   Follow Joni and Friends on  Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, and TikTok.   Joni and Friends envisions a world where every person with a disability finds hope, dignity, and their place in the body of Christ. Founded by Joni Eareckson Tada, we provide Christ-centered care through Joni's House, Wheels for the World, Retreats and Getaways, and disability ministry training.   Find more encouragement on Joni Eareckson Tada's Sharing Hope podcast and her daily devotional.

    A Biblical Understanding of Pain and Suffering: Pastor Shane Colwell

  4. Jul 30

    Strength for Today: Katie Blackburn on Community, Grace, and God’s Sustaining Mercy

    In this deeply honest and hope-filled conversation, author Katie Blackburn shares her journey as a single mom of six, raising a son with severe autism. With vulnerability and wisdom, Katie reflects on how God meets us in our limits: not with quick fixes, but with sustaining mercy. From the unexpected joy of a disability baseball league to the power of community in breaking isolation, Katie reminds us that we are not meant to do the hard things alone. She also shares practical encouragement for parents, churches, and anyone longing to better support the disability community. This episode is a tender invitation to embrace grace in the middle of chaos, to find purpose in the present moment, and to trust that even when life looks different than we imagined, God is still writing a beautiful story.   Get your copy of Katie’s book: The Very Best Baseball Game Find out more about Katie and connect with her at KatieBlackburn.com and on Instagram at @katiemblackburn Listen to Jerry Sittser’s podcast episode: How to Grow through Significant Loss and Grief   KEY QUESTIONS: How do you hold onto hope that God has a plan? How can you develop a heart of compassion for those with disabilities?   KEY SCRIPTURES: Romans 8:26-27: “Likewise the Spirit helps us in our weakness. For we do not know what to pray for as we ought, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words. And he who searches hearts knows what is the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for the saints according to the will of God.” You make this podcast possible! Thank you for your support. Find all podcast resources and message our team.   Follow Joni and Friends on  Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, and TikTok.   Joni and Friends envisions a world where every person with a disability finds hope, dignity, and their place in the body of Christ. Founded by Joni Eareckson Tada, we provide Christ-centered care through Joni's House, Wheels for the World, Retreats and Getaways, and disability ministry training.   Find more encouragement on Joni Eareckson Tada's Sharing Hope podcast and her daily devotional.

    Strength for Today: Katie Blackburn on Community, Grace, and God’s Sustaining Mercy

  5. Jul 23

    When Everything Changes: Patric Young on Disability, Identity, and Trusting God through Adversity

    What happens when the life you've built changes in an instant? Former professional basketball player Patric Young seemed to have everything ahead of him: a successful athletic career, a new job, and a wedding just days away. Then a devastating car accident left him paralyzed from the waist down and forced him to confront big questions of identity, purpose, and faith. In this conversation, Patric shares how God met him in suffering, taught him to surrender what he could not control, and helped him discover that his value was never rooted in his abilities. Together, Stephanie and Patric discuss disability, grief, community, perseverance, and the hope that remains even when circumstances don't change. Whether you're navigating disability, chronic hardship, caregiving, or an unexpected life transition, this episode offers biblical encouragement and practical wisdom for trusting God in the middle of life's hardest seasons. Follow Patric on Instagram: @patricyoung4 Get a copy of Patric’s book, Sit to Rise: Turning Your Darkest Pain into Your Brightest Victory Learn about the Patric Young Foundation   MENTIONED RESOURCES: A Place of Healing, Joni Eareckson Tada Win the Day, Mark Batterson The Circle Maker, Mark Batterson Failing Forward, John C. Maxwell   KEY QUESTIONS:  What does it look like to choose hope when your circumstances haven't yet changed? What is God teaching you in your current season?   KEY SCRIPTURES: James 1:2-4: "Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything." John 10:10: "The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full." Romans 8:18: "For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is to be revealed to us." You make this podcast possible! Thank you for your support. Find all podcast resources and message our team.   Follow Joni and Friends on  Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, and TikTok.   Joni and Friends envisions a world where every person with a disability finds hope, dignity, and their place in the body of Christ. Founded by Joni Eareckson Tada, we provide Christ-centered care through Joni's House, Wheels for the World, Retreats and Getaways, and disability ministry training.   Find more encouragement on Joni Eareckson Tada's Sharing Hope podcast and her daily devotional.

    When Everything Changes: Patric Young on Disability, Identity, and Trusting God through Adversity

  6. Jul 16

    More Than Accommodation: Carrie Mastenbrook on Creating True Belonging in the Church

    What does true belonging look like for families living with disability? In this conversation, Carrie Mastenbrook shares her journey as a mom to Andrew, who had a stroke at birth and lives with cerebral palsy and epilepsy. From overwhelming early medical challenges to unexpected moments of joy (like Andrew becoming a Special Olympics champion), Carrie reflects on how God has been present through it all. Now serving with Joni and Friends, Carrie is passionate about helping churches move beyond simply accommodating families with disabilities to truly embracing them. She offers practical wisdom, personal stories, and encouragement for both families and church leaders seeking to build a community where everyone is seen, known, and valued. This episode is a beautiful reminder that even in life’s hard moments, God is near. He is always working to bring purpose, connection, and belonging through Jesus. Connect with your local Joni and Friends U.S. Ministry Office Learn more about Joni and Friends Family Retreat Discover free Church Training Resources Volunteer with Joni and Friends!   KEY QUESTIONS: How can your church move from simply accommodating families with disabilities to truly embracing them? How can your church better include people with disabilities in your current discipleship programs?   KEY SCRIPTURES: Philippians 4:13: “I can do all this through him who gives me strength. You make this podcast possible! Thank you for your support. Find all podcast resources and message our team.   Follow Joni and Friends on  Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, and TikTok.   Joni and Friends envisions a world where every person with a disability finds hope, dignity, and their place in the body of Christ. Founded by Joni Eareckson Tada, we provide Christ-centered care through Joni's House, Wheels for the World, Retreats and Getaways, and disability ministry training.   Find more encouragement on Joni Eareckson Tada's Sharing Hope podcast and her daily devotional.

    More Than Accommodation: Carrie Mastenbrook on Creating True Belonging in the Church

  7. Jul 9

    Worship Through the Breaking with Isaac Immanuel

    Worship leader and songwriter Isaac Immanuel shares his powerful story of faith in the midst of suffering. Born with osteogenesis imperfecta, a rare brittle bone disease that has resulted in hundreds of fractures and dozens of surgeries, Isaac has learned to see weakness as a platform for God’s strength. In this conversation, he opens up about living with disability, stepping out in faith to embrace God’s calling on his life, and cultivating a posture of humility and worship. Through his story and music, Isaac offers a compelling reminder of what it means to find true identity in Christ and to hold onto hope even through the breaking. He is known for his authentic faith and passion for leading others in worship. As someone who has faced significant physical challenges from a young age, Isaac speaks candidly about the tension between limitation and calling. With a desire to encourage his generation, he shares how God faithfully answers prayers and cares for the desires of our hearts, often in ways that reveal His preparation long before we recognize it. Isaac’s story is a reminder that God’s strength is made evident not in spite of weakness, but through it. Follow Isaac Immanuel on Instagram and TikTok Stream his original song “Out of Darkness”   KEY QUESTIONS: What does “worship” mean to you? How do you live it out in everyday life? How would you encourage your generation to step out in faith and into their calling? What has been the result of saying “yes” to God in this endeavor?   KEY SCRIPTURES: 2 Timothy 1:7: “For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.” (KJV) Proverbs 16:9: “In their hearts humans plan their course, but the LORD establishes their steps.” You make this podcast possible! Thank you for your support. Find all podcast resources and message our team.   Follow Joni and Friends on  Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, and TikTok.   Joni and Friends envisions a world where every person with a disability finds hope, dignity, and their place in the body of Christ. Founded by Joni Eareckson Tada, we provide Christ-centered care through Joni's House, Wheels for the World, Retreats and Getaways, and disability ministry training.   Find more encouragement on Joni Eareckson Tada's Sharing Hope podcast and her daily devotional.

    Worship Through the Breaking with Isaac Immanuel

  8. Season 8 Trailer

    We're Kicking Off Season 8 of the Joni and Friends Ministry Podcast!

    Stephanie Daniels, our host of the Joni and Friends Ministry Podcast, is gearing up for Season 8. Join her each week this summer to hear from inspiring guests who will encourage you right where you are. Whether you're looking for practical ways your church can embrace people living with disability, you are personally facing a new disability or diagnosis, or you serve as a caregiver, you’ll discover hope through your hardship as you listen! Join us for your weekly dose of encouragement beginning Thursday, July 9th. We'll see you soon! Subscribe to our podcast wherever you listen: Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Follow Joni and Friends on Instagram for episode updates and more! You make this podcast possible! Thank you for your support. Find all podcast resources and message our team.   Follow Joni and Friends on  Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, and TikTok.   Joni and Friends envisions a world where every person with a disability finds hope, dignity, and their place in the body of Christ. Founded by Joni Eareckson Tada, we provide Christ-centered care through Joni's House, Wheels for the World, Retreats and Getaways, and disability ministry training.   Find more encouragement on Joni Eareckson Tada's Sharing Hope podcast and her daily devotional.

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Joni and Friends shares encouraging conversations about finding hope through your hardships, along with practical ways to include people with disabilities in your church and community.

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