Episode 8: Presume Competence – A Word for Anyone Who’s Ever Been Underestimated

05/13/25 • 32 min

🎙️ Episode 8: Presume Competence – A Word for Anyone Who’s Ever Been Underestimated

What if the person you thought didn’t understand—actually did?
What if they were listening the whole time, just waiting for you to believe they could?

In this deeply personal solo episode, Kristy shares what it means to truly presume competence—especially in students who don’t speak the way we expect. As the director of her school, she could have stayed behind the scenes. But from day one, she chose presence over position—jumping into classrooms, building relationships, and discovering firsthand how easy it is to underestimate someone who doesn’t communicate in typical ways.

This episode isn’t just about disability—it’s about dignity. About refusing to assume limits. About honoring the brilliance hidden behind silence, stimming, or overload. Whether you’re a parent, teacher, leader, or someone learning to see differently, this conversation will reframe how you show up for others.

🔶 What You’ll Hear in This Episode:

Why “non-verbal” is a misleading label—and what it overlooks
The difference between apraxia, regulation, and behavior
A transformative story from the short film Loop
How presuming competence reshaped Kristy’s leadership, advocacy, and faith
A gentle call to slow down and really see the people around you

🙏 Need Prayer or Encouragement?

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📧 Or, if you'd rather reach out by email, we’d be honored to pray for you at:
[email protected]

📌 Subscribe & Listen Weekly:

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📱 Stay Connected:

Instagram: @unshaken.ministries
Website: https://unshakenministries.org
Email: [email protected]

We’d love to hear from you! Share your thoughts, stories, or prayer requests—let’s stay connected.

This podcast is for encouragement and spiritual support. While we hope it uplifts and equips you, it’s not a substitute for professional counseling or pastoral care.

🎙️ Episode 8: Presume Competence – A Word for Anyone Who’s Ever Been Underestimated

What if the person you thought didn’t understand—actually did?
What if they were listening the whole time, just waiting for you to believe they could?

🔶 What You’ll Hear in This Episode:

Why “non-verbal” is a misleading label—and what it overlooks
The difference between apraxia, regulation, and behavior
A transformative story from the short film Loop
How presuming competence reshaped Kristy’s leadership, advocacy, and faith
A gentle call to slow down and really see the people around you

🙏 Need Prayer or Encouragement?

📧 Or, if you'd rather reach out by email, we’d be honored to pray for you at:
[email protected]

📌 Subscribe & Listen Weekly:

📱 Stay Connected:

Instagram: @unshaken.ministries
Website: https://unshakenministries.org
Email: [email protected]

We’d love to hear from you! Share your thoughts, stories, or prayer requests—let’s stay connected.

This podcast is for encouragement and spiritual support. While we hope it uplifts and equips you, it’s not a substitute for professional counseling or pastoral care.

Previous Episode

Episode 7: Are You Worthy of the One You’re Praying For?

🎙️ Episode 7: Are You Worthy of the One You’re Praying For?

What if the question isn’t just who you’re praying for—but who you’re becoming in the process?

In this raw and reflective solo episode, Tony opens up about the hard lessons he’s learned as a husband, a leader, and a man called to love with Christ-like care. From dating mistakes to spiritual growth, he unpacks Ephesians 5:21–33—not as a lecture, but as a confession and a challenge.

This isn’t about perfection—it’s about posture. About choosing service over status, humility over pride, and submission not as control, but as Christ-centered protection. Whether you're married, dating, or still praying for your future spouse, this episode offers an honest look at how God shapes us into someone worth trusting with another’s heart.

🔶 What You’ll Hear in This Episode:

Why Ephesians 5 is one of the most misused—and misunderstood—passages on marriage
How spiritual leadership starts with sacrifice, not control
The turning point that nearly ended Tony and Kristy’s relationship
The unseen power of prayer, protection, and public honor
What “assuming positive intent” looks like in real life
A warning about spiritual abuse—and a clear reminder to seek help if needed
A prayer for husbands, wives, and those still waiting

📧 Or, if you'd rather reach out by email, we’d be honored to pray for you at:
[email protected]

📌 Subscribe & Listen Weekly:

📱 Stay Connected:

Instagram: @unshaken.ministries
Website: https://unshakenministries.org
Email: [email protected]

#WorthyOfLove #FaithAndMarriage #UnshakenPodcast
#Ephesians5 #SpiritualLeadership #TonyAndKristy
#ChristCenteredMarriage #ChristianPodcast #LoveThatServes #MarriageGrowth

We’d love to hear from you! Share your thoughts, stories, or prayer requests—let’s stay connected.

This podcast is for encouragement and spiritual support. While we hope it uplifts and equips you, it’s not a substitute for professional counseling or pastoral care.