Justin Barton interviews McKay Smith on the Called to the Work Podcast about his background growing up in Spokane as one of eight kids, playing college basketball, and being the son of a bishop in the Green Bluff Ward. McKay shares his call to the Brazil Juiz de Fora Mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and his efforts to prepare by studying the Book of Mormon more deeply, and spending more time in the temple. He discusses choosing missionary service despite the pull of basketball, fears about Portuguese and other challenges, and excitement to witness the Atonement of Christ change lives through repentance. They reflect on Doctrine and Covenants 4, focusing on attributes like faith and diligence, and McKay bears testimony of Jesus Christ, the restored gospel, and the Book of Mormon.

00:00 Welcome and Introductions

00:21 Growing Up in Spokane

00:57 Life as a Bishop’s Son

01:58 Mission Call to Brazil

02:55 Why Serve a Mission

04:04 Preparing Spiritually and Language

05:15 Mission Goals and Becoming Selfless

06:50 Fears and Excitement Ahead

08:20 Atonement and Real Repentance

10:29 Handling Hard Times Through Service

13:53 Called to the Work Attributes

15:55 Temple Focus and Conversion

17:20 Doctrine and Covenants 4 Lessons

19:59 Final Invitation and Testimony

21:23 Closing Blessing and Sendoff