What happens when you’re willing to give up a dream for God, only for Him to show you a way to pursue it after all?

In this week’s episode of Latter-Day Lights, Scott and Darla sit down with composer and music producer Kristina Bishoff, to share how her struggle to balance motherhood with her passion for music brought her to a crossroads.

Ready to set aside her career to focus on raising her children, Kristina instead received unexpected inspiration that led her to create an ambitious soundtrack for the Green Rider fantasy book series, and discover that God had a different plan for her gifts.

From composing fantasy soundtracks to creating music about our Heavenly Parents, Kristina shares how surrendering her plans to God opened doors she never could have imagined. Her journey is a powerful reminder that when we place our dreams and talents in God’s hands, He can reshape them into something even greater.

*** Please hit SUBSCRIBE to get our latest episodes, and hit the SHARE button to help us share Kristina's story and light with others. ***

To WATCH this episode on YouTube, visit: https://youtu.be/dNn2Mli-A1k 

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To LISTEN to Kristina’s music, visit: https://www.kristinaabishoff.com/

To LEARN MORE about “The Divine Project,” visit: https://www.kristinaabishoff.com/divine-project

To READ “The Green Rider” series by Kristen Britain, visit: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/series/AY1/green-rider/

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To READ Scott’s new book “Faith to Stay” for free, visit: https://www.faithtostay.com/

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Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/latterdaylights

Also, if you have a faith-promoting or inspiring story, or know someone who does, please let us know by going to https://www.latterdaylights.com and reaching out to us.

What happens when one small daily commitment turns into years of sacrifice, faith, and unexpected miracles?

Brian Walker joins us to share the remarkable story behind his time-lapse video documenting the construction of the Willamette Valley Oregon Temple. What began as a simple idea to take one photo each day became a four-year commitment that kept the temple at the center of his life.

Along the way, Brian experienced plenty of challenges—and plenty of miracles.

From sharing the gospel with people who approached him while he photographed the temple to witnessing lives changed and feeling guided to be in the right place at the right time, Brian discovered that using our talents in the service of the Lord can open doors we never expected.

His thousands of photographs are more than a record of a building being constructed—they are a testimony of faith, sacrifice, temple worship, and the blessings that can come when we dedicate our talents to the Lord.

*** Please hit SUBSCRIBE to get our latest episodes, and hit the SHARE button to help us share Brian's story and light with others. ***

To WATCH this episode on YouTube, visit: https://youtu.be/UW8x_zPGuJk

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To WATCH Brian's time-lapse video of the building of the Willamette Valley Oregon Temple, visit: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1sZlCvr4tYI

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To READ Scott’s new book “Faith to Stay” for free, visit: https://www.faithtostay.com/

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Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/latterdaylights

Also, if you have a faith-promoting or inspiring story, or know someone who does, please let us know by going to https://www.latterdaylights.com and reaching out to us.

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What if the stories we create can help us better understand our own trials, and even change the way we see those who are different from us?

In this week’s episode of Latter-Day Lights, Scott and Darla sit down with fantasy author and Praiseworthy Award winner Christie Valentine Powell, who shares how her lifelong love of storytelling became an unexpected way to process grief, prejudice, and judgment. Through writing her book series “The Centaur Choice,” Christie drew from her own experiences with loss while exploring characters on opposing sides of conflict, ultimately challenging the “us versus them” mentality she once carried.

Christie also shares her journey from childhood storyteller to author of more than 20 books, along with the lessons she’s learned through writing and self-publishing, and how studying story structure has deepened her understanding of God’s role in our lives.

Ultimately, Christie’s story is a beautiful reminder that God is the author of our lives, that our tribulations can help shape us into who He wants us to become, and that seeing others as His children can help us move beyond judgment and find greater love and understanding.

*** Please hit SUBSCRIBE to get our latest episodes, and hit the SHARE button to help us share Christie's story and light with others. ***

To WATCH this episode on YouTube, visit: https://youtu.be/pQZdRx7XMRk

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To READ Christie’s Praiseworthy Award-Winning book series, “The Centaur Choice,” visit: https://a.co/d/04JvixPU

To LEARN MORE about Christie’s work, visit: https://www.thespectrabooks.com/

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To READ Scott’s new book “Faith to Stay” for free, visit: https://www.faithtostay.com/

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Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/latterdaylights

Also, if you have a faith-promoting or inspiring story, or know someone who does, please let us know by going to https://www.latterdaylights.com and reaching out to us.

What if some of the things we do to strengthen our faith are actually getting in the way of truly connecting with Jesus Christ?

In this week’s episode of Latter-Day Lights, Scott sits down with longtime Seminary and Institute teacher and author John Bushman to explore the message behind his book, “King Before Kingdom.” John shares how even well-intentioned Latter-day Saints can fall into a checklist mentality—measuring faith by how well we keep the commandments, attend church, read the scriptures, or fulfill expectations—while unintentionally losing sight of the Savior at the center of it all.

Through eye-opening insights about grace, conversion, the sacrament, the Atonement, priesthood, and worship, John invites us to rethink some familiar ideas and language within Church culture. His message is a powerful reminder that the gospel isn't about earning our way to heaven—it's about seeking, trusting, and following Jesus Christ. When we put the King before the kingdom, our relationship with both can begin to change.

*** Please hit SUBSCRIBE to get our latest episodes, and hit the SHARE button to help us share John's story and light with others. ***

To WATCH this episode on YouTube, visit: https://youtu.be/hPB-DLdRspo

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To LEARN MORE about John’s work, visit: https://www.johnbushman.com/

To READ John’s book, “King Before Kingdom,” visit: https://a.co/d/0b6ci5aD

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To READ Scott’s new book “Faith to Stay” for free, visit: https://www.faithtostay.com/

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Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/latterdaylights

Also, if you have a faith-promoting or inspiring story, or know someone who does, please let us know by going to https://www.latterdaylights.com and reaching out to us.

Could a single photograph strengthen your testimony of the Restoration?

For years, countless images have claimed to be authentic photographs of the Prophet Joseph Smith—but none have been universally accepted. So what happens when a long-forgotten daguerreotype is discovered in a family heirloom, and the evidence begins pointing in an unexpected direction?

In this fascinating episode of Latter-Day Lights, researcher Curtis Weber shares how his initial attempt to disprove the image's authenticity led him down a years-long journey through forensic anthropology, historical records, facial analysis, and Church history.

Join us as Curtis unpacks the remarkable research behind what may be the strongest case yet for an authentic photograph of Joseph Smith. Along the way, you'll discover how careful investigation, expert collaboration, and an honest pursuit of truth can deepen faith and offer a fresh appreciation for the life and legacy of the Prophet of the Restoration.

*** Please hit SUBSCRIBE to get our latest episodes, and hit the SHARE button to help us share Curtis' story and light with others. ***

To WATCH this episode on YouTube, visit: https://youtu.be/RisRIe1je5M

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To CONNECT with Curtis on Facebook, visit: https://www.facebook.com/curtis.weber.5

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To READ Scott’s new book “Faith to Stay” for free, visit: https://www.faithtostay.com/

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Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/latterdaylights

Also, if you have a faith-promoting or inspiring story, or know someone who does, please let us know by going to https://www.latterdaylights.com and reaching out to us.

Could God do more with your talents than you ever could on your own?

From concert halls around the world to Christ-centered productions that have touched thousands, Jenny Oaks Baker has learned that the Lord often leads us in ways we never expect.

In this week’s uplifting episode of Latter-Day Lights, Jenny shares how following quiet promptings transformed her career from simply performing music to creating productions that testify of Jesus Christ, including her self-produced shows such as “Redeemer,” “Joy to the World,” and “American Mosaic.”

Along the way, she opens up about relying on the Lord through uncertainty, building the SoulFill Music Foundation, and learning to trust Him one step at a time. Jenny also reflects on the faithful example of her parents, the importance of consecrating our talents to God's work, and the unexpected blessings that come when we're willing to let go of our own plans.

Her testimony is a beautiful reminder that as we seek the Savior first, He not only magnifies our gifts but also leads us to a life richer, more purposeful, and more joyful than we could have imagined.

*** Please hit SUBSCRIBE to get our latest episodes, and hit the SHARE button to help us share Jenny's story and light with others. ***

To WATCH this episode on YouTube, visit: https://youtu.be/jHoI75p15L8

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To LEARN MORE about Jenny’s non-profit organization, The SoulFill Music Foundation, visit: https://soulfillmusic.org/

To LEARN MORE about Jenny’s work and The Jenny Oaks Baker Performance Workshop, visit: https://www.jennyoaksbaker.com/workshop

To WATCH Jenny on tour, get tickets at: https://www.jennyoaksbaker.com/upcoming-events

To FOLLOW Jenny on Instagram, visit: https://www.instagram.com/jennyoaksbaker/

To FOLLOW Jenny on Facebook, visit: https://www.facebook.com/jennyoaksbaker/

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To READ Scott’s new book “Faith to Stay” for free, visit: https://www.faithtostay.com/

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Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/latterdaylights

Also, if you have a faith-promoting or inspiring story, or know someone who does, please let us know by going to https://www.latterdaylights.com and reaching out to us.

How do we move forward from being healed to being truly cleansed?

In this week’s episode of Latter-Day Lights, filmmaker Taylor Riley of “Scripture Central” and “Messages of Christ” shares the remarkable story behind “The Cleansing of the Leper”, a Praiseworthy Award-winning short film that brings one of the Bible's most overlooked passages to life.

Together with Scott and Darla, we explore the rich symbolism found in Leviticus 14 and Mark 1, uncovering profound connections between the cleansing ritual, the Savior's Atonement, and the sacred patterns that continue throughout the restored gospel.

Taylor also gives a behind-the-scenes look at filming on the Church's Goshen set, the creative process of translating ancient scripture into visual storytelling, and the importance of helping modern audiences experience the scriptures beyond reading them.

Through powerful insights and personal experiences, this conversation invites us to see ourselves in the story of the leper and to remember that through Jesus Christ, healing is only the beginning, while true cleansing and transformation await all who come unto Him.

*** Please hit SUBSCRIBE to get our latest episodes, and hit the SHARE button to help us share Taylor's story and light with others. ***

To WATCH this episode on YouTube, visit: https://youtu.be/wrEmY5y0xWg

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To WATCH Taylor’s film, “The Cleansing of the Leper,” visit: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kl0CCIj0Fg8&t

To WATCH more of Taylor’s work on “Scripture Central,” visit: https://www.scripturecentral.org/

To WATCH more of Taylor’s work on the “Messages of Christ” YouTube channel, visit: https://www.youtube.com/@messagesofChrist

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To READ Scott’s new book “Faith to Stay” for free, visit: https://www.faithtostay.com/

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Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/latterdaylights

Also, if you have a faith-promoting or inspiring story, or know someone who does, please let us know by going to https://www.latterdaylights.com and reaching out to us.

What can an everyday tradition reveal about a community's faith and culture?

In this week's episode of Latter-Day Lights, Scott and Darla sit down with documentary filmmaker, Madison Pope, to discuss her upcoming film, Saints and Sodas—a deep dive into the unique soda culture that has captured national attention. Madison shares the fascinating story behind the documentary, from interviewing self-proclaimed soda addicts and health experts, to exploring the influence of pop culture and the history that helped shape Utah's signature drink trend.

Beyond the documentary itself, Madison reflects on her unexpected path into filmmaking—from creating short films as a college student in Massachusetts, to building a career in producing meaningful documentaries that explore faith and the human experience. She offers a behind-the-scenes look at the process of making documentaries, the challenges of uncovering a compelling story, and why authentic storytelling has the power to foster greater understanding and compassion.

Whether you're a dirty soda fan, a documentary enthusiast, or simply curious about the intersection of faith and culture, this conversation offers a thoughtful, entertaining look at one of Utah's most recognizable traditions—and the deeper stories that often exist behind the headlines.

*** Please hit SUBSCRIBE to get our latest episodes, and hit the SHARE button to help us share Madison's story and light with others. ***

To WATCH this episode on YouTube, visit: https://youtu.be/_y4mE-6292U

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To WATCH the film, “The Grim & The Dark,” visit: https://www.primevideo.com/detail/0LOA8NG3B8PG628OFF8PG8TKAX

To WATCH the film, “Born for This,” visit: https://www.primevideo.com/detail/0HX9KCF4WYZOVC2CUU76LMKKRF

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To READ Scott’s new book “Faith to Stay” for free, visit: https://www.faithtostay.com/

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Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/latterdaylights

Also, if you have a faith-promoting or inspiring story, or know someone who does, please let us know by going to https://www.latterdaylights.com and reaching out to us.

What if forgiveness goes beyond seeking justice—and actually becomes the path to healing?

In this week’s episode of Latter-Day Lights, Scott and Darla sit down with four-time New York Times bestselling author Roger Connors to explore the life-changing power of forgiveness through Jesus Christ. Roger shares his remarkable conversion story—from secretly reading the Book of Mormon despite his parents' opposition, and facing the possibility of losing his family over his decision to join the Church, to serving as a mission president, overcoming stage four cancer, and discovering how the Savior carried him through life's greatest trials.

Drawing from his new book, Healing the Wounded Heart, Roger explains the difference between divine vs. brotherly forgiveness, why forgiveness is ultimately a gift to ourselves, and how the enabling power of Jesus Christ can help us let go of bitterness, find peace, and experience lasting spiritual healing—even when reconciliation feels impossible.

*** Please hit SUBSCRIBE to get our latest episodes, and hit the SHARE button to help us share Roger's story and light with others. ***

To WATCH this episode on YouTube, visit: https://youtu.be/-Y1pFWllMqI

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To READ Roger’s book, “Healing the Wounded Heart,” visit: https://a.co/d/0bwSFsUU

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To READ Scott’s new book “Faith to Stay” for free, visit: https://www.faithtostay.com/

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Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/latterdaylights

Also, if you have a faith-promoting or inspiring story, or know someone who does, please let us know by going to https://www.latterdaylights.com and reaching out to us.

Can the stories of the Restoration inspire your own story of faith?

In this inspiring episode, Sandra Meaders shares how a lifelong love of books and a growing fascination with Church history led her on a journey that deepened her own faith in unexpected ways. Through countless visits to historic Church sites, studying the lives of early Saints, and immersing herself in the stories of the Restoration, Sandra discovered that the more she learned, the stronger her testimony became.

That journey eventually inspired her to write a series of children's books designed to help young readers discover the scriptures, Church history, and the people and places that shaped the restored gospel. Sandra shares the experiences that influenced her writing, the miracles and tender moments that strengthened her faith, and why she believes sharing even a simple testimony can bless generations to come.

*** Please hit SUBSCRIBE to get our latest episodes, and hit the SHARE button to help us share Sandra's story and light with others. ***

To WATCH this episode on YouTube, visit: https://youtu.be/zBCP727--Tk

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To READ Sandra's books, like "Lehi, Lehi, What Do You See?" or "Joseph, Where Are You?", visit:  https://www.amazon.com/stores/Sandra-Meaders/author/B07CQRM8YH

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To READ Scott’s new book “Faith to Stay” for free, visit: https://www.faithtostay.com/

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Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/latterdaylights

Also, if you have a faith-promoting or inspiring story, or know someone who does, please let us know by going to https://www.latterdaylights.com and reaching out to us.

#LDSPodcast #ChristianStories #LatterDayLights