In this episode, Karen Papin sits down with Sam Smith (now Bryant), a certified life coach from Mesa, Arizona, who shares her transformative journey from "checkbox living" to learning to trust in God's plan. Sam opens up about her experiences serving an LDS mission in Zimbabwe during a severe economic crisis, her career transition from cosmetology to life coaching, and how letting go of perfectionism has deepened her understanding of divine worth.

Sam's story takes us through the challenges of serving a mission during Zimbabwe's "cash crisis" of 2016-2017, where missionaries faced daily uncertainties about basic necessities like food and cash. Through these trials, she learned to release control and lean into faith, discovering that miracles happen when we trust God's timing and plan for our lives.

Key Takeaways:

• Moving Beyond Checkbox Mentality: Life isn't about checking off predetermined boxes but about trusting God's unique plan for each individual journey
• Self-Compassion in Growth: When recognizing perfectionist tendencies, show yourself compassion rather than shame while working toward healthier patterns
• Focus on What You Can Control: Instead of trying to control outcomes, focus on how you show up and what kind of person you want to be in each situation
• Prayer as Your Primary Resource: Before turning to Google, social media, or other instant sources, seek guidance from your Creator who knows you perfectly
• Taking Action Despite Uncertainty: Sometimes you need to step forward in faith rather than waiting for perfect clarity or doing endless research

Resources Mentioned:

• Better Than Happy Podcast by Jody Moore
• Life Coach School - certification program
• Doctrine and Covenants 18:10 - "The worth of souls is great in the sight of God"

Connect with Sam Smith:

• Website: samsmithcareercoach.com (includes free consultation signup)
• Social Media: @sambryantcoaching
• Podcast: "Share Goodness with Sam Smith" (available on Apple and Spotify)

Get Your Divine Worth Resources:

Free Scripture Cards: Visit www.karenpapin.com/scripturecards to download your complimentary divine worth scripture cards.

Divine Worth Journal: Find the "Divine Worth Journal by Karen Papin" on Amazon by searching the title or visit: https://www.amazon.com/Divine-Worth-Journal-Scriptures-Embracing/dp/B0CZDPF4TT/

Support a Meaningful Cause:Help Karen honor the memory of JD by supporting the Miles for JD fundraiser. Every mile and donation makes a difference. Learn more and contribute at: https://tiltify.com/@karenpapin/personal/miles-in-memory-of-jd