Wonderful Works Talks - Accessible Faith Podcast

Barb Stanley

Hey, I'm Barb Stanley, host of Wonderful Works Talks where we talk all about the disability ministry mission of making churches accessible for all. And I am so excited to invite you to dive deep into topics like ministry leadership, advocacy, and personal stories about disability and faith that will open your eyes and your heart. So, please join us each month as we talk to a new guest all about the wonderful work that they are doing for our mission. To learn more about our ministry check out https://www.wonderfulworksministry.org

  1. Engaging Kids in the Church Classroom with Karl Bastian - Summer Flashback

    May 29

    Engaging Kids in the Church Classroom with Karl Bastian - Summer Flashback

    "It has been said that we get more of whatever it is that we focus on. Do you think that is true when it comes to working with kids? " Join us as we kick off our summer flashback series and share some of our favorite WW Talks episodes from past seasons. Starting with one of our most popular episodes ever, our interview with the Kidologist, Karl Bastian. Today we are going to talk to the founder of Kidology.org, Karl Bastian, and hear why where we choose to put our focus makes all the difference when teaching kids the Gospel. Plus, we'll learn tips for classroom engagement that can make behaviors disappear, the importance of five-minute encounters, and how Karl's mother's encouragement changed everything. One more thing, don't stop listening before the end, because Karl's last two stories might just blow your mind and fill your heart. To learn more great stuff from Karl, please visit ⁠kidology.org⁠. To learn more about Wonderful Works Ministry, please visit wonderfulworksministry.org  and subscribe to us on ⁠⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠⁠. 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.

    1h 6m
  2. Disability Ministry FAQs with Leah Whicker

    Apr 24

    Disability Ministry FAQs with Leah Whicker

    “Do you think that creating inclusive children’s ministry requires creating a big program with a big budget?”     That is one of the questions that we are going to dive into today when we speak with Wonderful Works own Special Education Consultant, Leah Whicker. Leah is going to share with us what questions she hears most often when she coaches ministry leaders all over the nation. Lots of great stuff today to help you start or strengthen disability accessibility at your church. So, join us as we learn about the three tiers of support, how to train your ministry volunteers, and learn how you can get a free coaching session with Leah yourself!     Leah Whicker bio: Leah is the Special Education Consultant and Ministry Leader Coach for Wonderful Works Ministry. She has had a passion for working with children for as long as she can remember. After studying Early Childhood Education at The Ohio State University, she moved to Northern Virginia, where she started her career in education as a preschool teacher. Leah and her family moved back to Ohio in 2012, and in 2014, she began serving in her church’s Special Needs Ministry, 139 Kids. Here, Leah became the co-leader, specializing in creating positive support plans for children in the ministry. Leah attended Ashland University, where she earned an Intervention Specialist teacher’s licensure. She is passionate about equipping churches to have their own Disability Ministries. Leah is married, and she and her husband, Chris, have two children.   To set up a coaching session with Leah please visit the coaching tab on the Adapted Discipleship Library.   Recommended Resources from this Episode. Adapted Discipleship Library – Get tons of free disability ministry tools here.   Recommended Training Videos for Church Teams. Download the Talking Points on the Adapted Discipleship Library): WW Positive Behavior Support WW Setting ALL Kids up for Success WW Universal Design WW Transitions WW Invisible Buddy WW Welcoming a Student with Autism.   Wonderful Works 5 Questions for Ministry Planning Video Series. Download the Talking Points on the Adapted Discipleship Library:  Question 1 - What Do You Most Want to Accomplish  Question 2 -Who Do You Need  Question 3 – Where Are the Guardrails Question 4 How Do You Decide Question 5 – When Do You Grow?     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.

    43 min
  3. Trauma Informed Church with Kim Botto

    Mar 24

    Trauma Informed Church with Kim Botto

    "Do you think the way we respond to kids who have challenging behavior impacts the way they feel in the world? Do you think that makes a difference for the world?" Whew! That is the really big question that we are going to be wrestling with today as I sit down with author, Kim Botto. Kim’s book, Boundless Hope for Every Child: Compassion for the Misunderstood, Belonging for the Lonely, is one of my personal favorite books on trauma, children, and the church. And today our conversation gets deep. Join us as we learn why being safe and feeling safe are two different things, what the 2 x 10 principle is, and hear Kim’s own story of adopting her daughters from a Ukrainian orphanage. Some really powerful stuff today (and practical tips for churches too.)   Kim Botto bio: Kim is a mom of five and grandma of eleven. For the past several decades, she’s led children’s and student ministries in the local church while also leading initiatives around adoption and foster care. Sixteen of those years were at Crossroads, one of the largest and fastest growing churches in the country (according to Outreach Magazine) with sites in Kentucky and Ohio. She also served as Director of Training and Development at a Cincinnati nonprofit serving multi-system involved youth. She’s helped train thousands of children's ministry staff, educators, parents and nonprofit staff on engaging neurodivergent kids/teens and trauma informed care. She is a sought-after speaker and author of Boundless Hope for Every Child.   More from Kim: Visit her website at kimbotto.com Buy her book – Boundless Hope for Every Child on Amazon today. Check out her Podcast: Every Child Belongs   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.

    56 min
  4. Walking By Faith, Not By Sight with Jennifer Rothschild

    Feb 27

    Walking By Faith, Not By Sight with Jennifer Rothschild

    "Do you think it is possible to have peace in your soul, even when your circumstances don’t feel so peaceful?" This is the question that we will be diving into today as I sit down with Jennifer Rothschild. Jennifer is the author of 20 books and Bible studies, a sought-after speaker, a podcaster, and the founder of Fresh Grounded Faith women’s events; she has been featured on Good Morning America, The Today Show, Dr. Phil, Billy Graham, and more. And Jennifer is also blind. Today, she  is going to share her story with us and give us some wisdom of all she has learned through her journey. It’s some really good stuff.  Jennifer Rothschild bio: Jennifer has shared her inspiring messages to audiences across the country and through media outlets including Dr. Phil, Good Morning America, The Today Show, and the Billy Graham Television Special. She is the author of many books and Bible studies, including Amos, Take Courage, Psalm 23, Hosea, Me, Myself, and Lies, and more. Jennifer is a C. S. Lewis junkie, an obsessive audiobook listener, a dark chocolate lover, and she drinks way too much strong coffee. She’s been blind since age fifteen and says the greatest lesson she’s learned in the dark is that it doesn’t have to be well with your circumstances to be well with your soul. Jennifer is a boy mom who lives in Missouri with her husband, whom she affectionately calls her very own Dr. Phil.  More from Jennifer: Get the latest news about Jennifer at ⁠jenniferrothschild.com⁠ Check out her book: Lessons I Learned in the Dark ⁠here⁠. Check out her new Bible Study: Heaven ⁠here⁠. Listen to her 4:13 Podcast⁠ 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.

    44 min
  5. How to Tell Your Story to Get Results with Barb Stanley

    Jan 28

    How to Tell Your Story to Get Results with Barb Stanley

    "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.

    28 min
  6. Disability in the Media - Changing the Narrative with Cam Wells

    12/19/2025

    Disability in the Media - Changing the Narrative with Cam Wells

    "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.

    49 min
  7. How to Advocate and Stay Christian with Larah Roberts

    11/26/2025

    How to Advocate and Stay Christian with Larah Roberts

    "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.

    1h 8m
  8. Embracing Your Unique Voice with Steven McCoy, the world's first Black DeafBlind journalist

    11/01/2025

    Embracing Your Unique Voice with Steven McCoy, the world's first Black DeafBlind journalist

    "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.

    57 min

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
3 Ratings

About

Hey, I'm Barb Stanley, host of Wonderful Works Talks where we talk all about the disability ministry mission of making churches accessible for all. And I am so excited to invite you to dive deep into topics like ministry leadership, advocacy, and personal stories about disability and faith that will open your eyes and your heart. So, please join us each month as we talk to a new guest all about the wonderful work that they are doing for our mission. To learn more about our ministry check out https://www.wonderfulworksministry.org

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