Raising Autistic Disciples

Welcome back to Raising Autistic Disciples! After a full year away from the mic, Larah and Colin Roberts are back with a "year in review" catch-up, a few honest laughs (yes… including the legendary Pooper Bowl anniversary), and a question Larah gets from other Christian parents all the time: "I struggle to tell people my son has autism. I want him treated like every other child. How did you handle this?" In this episode, Larah and Colin talk through the tension so many parents feel: wanting to protect your child from being defined by a diagnosis, while also realizing that hiding it can create more exhaustion, confusion, and isolation. They share practical ways they've learned to talk about autism in trusted circles, what to do when people respond with ignorant or hurtful comments, and why the gospel gives us freedom to be honest without shame. They also preview what's coming this season, including conversations with autism moms, church leaders, and friends with different perspectives—because we can disagree and still be kind… and still worship together. In this episode, we talk about: * The one-year anniversary of potty training success (and why you should absolutely celebrate the wins) * Graham's first airplane ride… and the "Great job, everybody. We did it!" moment * A scary summer eye injury, and how it revealed something important about strong connections to people, places, and experiences * Why not talking about autism can build emotional walls and make relationships harder * The difference between identity in Christ and the reality of a diagnosis as a helpful "map" * How to tell your trusted people before you feel like you have it all figured out * What to do when family or church folks say the wrong thing ("He's not autistic… he just needs more discipline…") * Why hiding a diagnosis can actually be unkind long-term * The role of the church and community: we need running partners, reminders, and perspective Key takeaway: Your autistic child is not something to be hidden. They are an image bearer. And the goal isn't to make autism their identity—it's to live in the freedom of truth, so others can understand, support, and walk with you.

Sometimes autism parenting feels like you're making high-stakes decisions with incomplete information. School. Therapies. Doctors. The constant "what if." The pressure to pick the perfect path and never regret it. In this episode, Larah sits down with her friend Nicole (mom of six boys) to talk about what it looks like to advocate for your autistic child without losing your peace or your witness. Nicole shares what led her to speak at a school board meeting, how she prepared, and what anchored her in the room: identity in Christ. They talk about decision-making through a gospel lens, why boldness doesn't have to be loud, and how to walk forward in freedom when you can only see one step at a time. Inside the episode: * How to advocate without yelling, spiraling, or burning bridges * Why behavior change can't come first (it has to start at the root) * Making school/therapy decisions with prayer, wisdom, and margin * "Lamp, not flashlight" faith for moms who want clarity now * The freedom to pivot when something stops working If you're tired of carrying the weight of every decision like it's forever… this one will exhale for you. Find Nicole on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicole_cattelona/ How to Advocate & Stay Christian - https://amzn.to/40yaEme

What does sourdough have to do with an autism diagnosis? More than you think. In this episode of Raising Autistic Disciples, I sit down with Courtney Moody of Acts of Sourdough to talk about motherhood, marriage, discipline, safe foods, Domino's pizza… and what happens when the sky "isn't blue anymore" after receiving a diagnosis. Courtney shares candidly about: * The guilt that creeps in with every questionnaire * The "tango" between "It's my fault" and "It was always going to be this way" * Navigating the controversial conversations around obedience and autism * Loving your child without clipping their wings * Protecting your marriage when the weight of parenting feels overwhelming * And why a diagnosis is an open door — not the driver's seat We talk about tough love, safe foods, spiritual surrender, and the beauty of raising autistic children for God's glory — even when it feels exhausting. This conversation is honest, layered, and full of grace for the mom who just walked out of an evaluation appointment cross-eyed and overwhelmed. If you are in the early days of diagnosis… If you're wrestling with guilt… If you're learning how to love your spouse while loving your child fiercely… This one is for you.

Larah kicks off the 2026 season with a conversation that sets the tone for every interview to come. Her guest is Barb Stanley, founder of Wonderful Works Ministry—and also a mentor who helped Larah put words to something so many special needs parents feel but can't always articulate: You don't have to convince people. You can share your story and invite them to consider your lived experience. This episode is for the parent who is tired of defending. For the church member who wants to advocate without blowing up. For the leader who wants to listen well in a world that feels allergic to disagreement. Barb offers a practical, gospel-minded framework for staying calm, staying curious, and staying relational—even when the topic is emotional, personal, and high-stakes. About Barb Stanley Barb is the founder of Wonderful Works Ministry, an online disability ministry resource center equipping churches with practical tools for inclusive discipleship. Growing up with a brother with autism and intellectual disability, Barb combines lived experience with creative skills in design, writing, and illustration to make resources churches can actually use. https://www.wonderfulworksministry.org/

Join Collin and Larah as they discuss the question "why does life have to be so hard?" Why is the journey of raising an autistic kid have its challenges? What verse in the Bible explains "why is this life so hard?" Join the conversation!

Join Collin and Larah as they describe the Christmas adventures their family went on and what they learned from it that includes breaking out in hives, goldfish, snot, and blessing the Lord at all times.

In this special episode of Raising Autistic Disciples, we're joined by author JJ Levan, a passionate advocate and parent of an autistic son. Together, we explore the unique challenges and blessings of preparing your family—siblings, grandparents, and even close friends—to embrace and celebrate your autistic child's God-given design. JJ shares heartfelt stories from her own journey, practical wisdom, and biblical encouragement for fostering understanding and unity within your family. From navigating tricky conversations to creating a home where every member feels seen and loved, this episode is packed with insights to equip your family to reflect Christ's love. Join us for a conversation full of grace, hope, and actionable steps to prepare your family to thrive together! JJ's book: He Meant You to Be You http://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CHPT7YN6

In this episode of Raising Autistic Disciples, we explore the powerful truth that "Emmanuel"—God with us—is enough for every season of parenting. Whether you're navigating meltdowns, advocating for your child, or simply feeling overwhelmed by the weight of it all, this episode offers biblical encouragement and practical insights to remind you that God's presence is sufficient. Join Larah as she unpacks how trusting in Emmanuel equips us to embrace both the challenges and joys of raising autistic disciples, leaning on His strength instead of our own. Tune in and be encouraged—you're not in this alone!

In this episode of Raising Autistic Disciples, we will share practical insights for navigating holiday anxiety that often affects autistic children and their families. The holiday season can bring a whirlwind of sensory overload, unexpected changes, and social pressures. We'll discuss effective strategies for preparing your child (and yourself!) for these challenges, with tips on maintaining peace, setting gentle boundaries, and keeping Christ at the center of your celebrations. Together, let's create a holiday season that honors both your child's unique needs and the joyful meaning of this time of year.

Join Collin and Larah as they look back over season one and offer a few regrets, wishes, and even more excitement for what is to come! DM Larah on Instagram @RaisingAutisticDisciples [https://www.instagram.com/raisingautisticdisciples/] to give us some ideas on what topics you'd like to hear going forward!

Join Collin & Larah as they discuss the final stage of the autism diagnosis for the Christ-following parent: Education & Advocacy. You can find their book, "How to Advocate & Stay Christian," on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3SpITcb

Join Collin as he has a conversation with Pastor Wayne about the New Normal after a child's autism diagnosis.

Join host Larah and guest Katie White as they talk about the stage of Grief & Acceptance that is a part of the Autism Diagnosis for the Christ-following parent. BIG News! We've launched RaisingAutisticDisciples.com! We are also launching an online support group for parents and caregivers who are raising autistic disciples. Sign up today!

Join Larah and guest Katie White as they talk about the second stage of the Five Stages of the Autism Diagnosis for the Christ-following parent.  BIG News! We've launched RaisingAutisticDisciples.com! We are also launching an online support group for parents and caregivers who are raising autistic disciples. Sign up today!

This is the first conversation of five episodes discussing the five stages of discovering autism for the Christ-following parent. Larah talks with guest Lizzie Mears, a speech therapist and a friend that guided her during a hard season of denial. Though these stages and phases will look different for every family, it is our hope that the next series of episodes be ones to help identify, encourage and offer practical and gospel hope to take the next step forward on the autism journey. Connect with us: Instagram: ⁠https://instagram.com/raisingautisticdisciples Facebook: https://facebook.com/raisingautisticdisciples Email: raisingautisticdisciples@gmail.com

Ever wondered how your journey raising an autistic child as a Christ-following parent can bring glory to God? Join us  as we explore "The Five Stages of Discovering Autism: For the Christ-following Parent." Have you experienced denial before or after receiving your child's autism diagnosis? Did you face grief and eventually come to acceptance? How did you navigate changing family dynamics to this new normal?  What is your life like now as you learn more and advocate for your autistic child? These are the stages that we walked through as parents of an autistic child. In this episode, we'll dive deep into each stage, sharing relatable stories, insights, and point each other to the truth of the gospel. Discover how God's purpose and glory are intricately woven into your unique path of raising autistic disciples. Whether you're seasoned or new to this journey, this series will equip you with the tools and perspective to raise autistic disciples for God's Kingdom.

Larah is joined by Pastor Connor Bales, who serves as the Prestonwood Baptist Church North Campus Pastor. Connor is the author of "Counted Worthy: A Father's Perspective on the Theology of Suffering." He is married to Mary and has five sweet kiddos. Pastor Connor has a heart for special needs ministry and is committed to serving and sharing the Gospel with families affected by disabilities. Counted Worthy available on Amazon [https://www.amazon.com/Counted-Worthy-Perspective-Theology-Suffering/dp/1954618247/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=&sr=&_encoding=UTF8&tag=raisingauti0d-20&linkCode=ur2&linkId=1cce28f7a1036bb134f53fb86f7407b1&camp=1789&creative=9325] and Barnes & Noble [https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/counted-worthy-connor-bales/1140213371]. Connect with Connor: connorbales.com/ [http://connorbales.com/] Connect with us: Instagram: ⁠https://instagram.com/raisingautisticdisciples

Drawing from the concept of the imago Dei, or image of God, Collin and Larah talk about how God's character and attributes are uniquely on display in and through autism. Every person is an image-bearer of the living God, created by Him with inherent value and worth as His creation. This episode is essential for those who are parenting, caring for, and supporting those who are autistic. Remembering that God created autism for His glory enables us as parents to take up the mantle of discipleship in our home. 1 Corinthians 12:9 says, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." Therefore, I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me. We would love to connect with you and hear your story. If you have any questions or just want to say hi, please do not hesitate to email us at raisingautisticdisciples@gmail.com.

Hey there! Are you a parent, caregiver, or friend of someone on the autistic spectrum? Do you also desire to steward, raise, and encourage them to love and follow Jesus? If so, you're in the right place! We believe that the gospel is for everyone, including our neurodiverse children. We know that raising children on the spectrum comes with its unique challenges and that discipleship methods may need to look different. That's why we're here to equip and encourage you on your journey to raising autistic disciples who know, love, and follow Jesus. We would love to connect with you and hear your story. If you have any questions or just want to say hi, please do not hesitate to email us at raisingautisticdisciples@gmail.com.

A podcast for parents and caregivers who believe the autism diagnosis is a beautiful gift from God to steward for His glory. The gospel is for all, therefore, for our autistic children as well. The discipleship methods may look different on the spectrum, which is why this podcast aims to equip and encourage those who desire to raise their neurodiverse children to know and follow Jesus.